4D Bioassembly: Evolutionary Pathway and Future of Osteochondral Repair via Bibliometric Analysis

BACKGROUND Research in osteochondral repair has evolved exponentially from surgical techniques to regenerative medicine. While bibliometrics can map this expansion, a deeper synthesis is needed to uncover the underlying dynamics and future paradigms that will strategically guide the field. METHODS A systematic search of the Web of Science Core Collection (2000–2024) identified 2,919 publications for analysis. VOSviewer (v1.6.20) constructed co-occurrence and co-citation networks, while CiteSpace (v6.4.R1) was employed for burst detection, dual-map overlays, collaboration analysis, and timezone views to reveal evolution pathways. RESULTS Our analysis reveals a mature, tripartite intellectual structure and a robust bidirectional knowledge flow, forming a “translational closed-loop.” We document significant global research asymmetry and conceptualize the field’s evolution as three sequential paradigms: 1) Structural Repair (c. 2000–2010); 2) Biological Regeneration (c. 2011–2017); and 3) Functional Mimicry (2018–present). Critically, our data identify the convergence of sustained citation bursts in “osteochondral regeneration” (strength: 19.93), “3D printing,” and “hydrogel” as the empirical foundation for a new, emerging paradigm: 4D Bioassembly (spatiotemporally programmed and self-evolving regeneration of living tissues). CONCLUSION We conclude that the field’s trajectory is defined by its progression into the Functional Mimicry paradigm and is now pivoting toward the ultimate frontier of 4D Bioassembly.