Global Research Trends in Endoscopic Cranial Surgery: A Bibliometric and Visualized Analysis (2015–2025)

Background Endoscopic cranial surgery (ECS) has undergone rapid expansion over the past decade, driven by advances in visualization, navigation, and minimally invasive surgical strategies. However, the global structure, thematic evolution, and collaborative patterns of ECS research have not been systematically quantified. Methods A bibliometric and visualized analysis was conducted using publications retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (2015–2025). VOSviewer and CiteSpace were applied to analyze publication trends, authorship networks, institutional and national contributions, co-cited references, and keyword clusters. Results A total of 729 eligible publications were included. The United States dominated research output and citation impact, with the University of Pittsburgh emerging as the most influential institution. Major research hotspots centered on skull base reconstruction, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak prevention, and technological innovation, including neuronavigation and high-definition endoscopy. Recent trends indicate increasing focus on postoperative management and complication mitigation. Conclusion ECS research is increasingly shaped by technological refinement and complication prevention strategies. These findings provide a structured overview of the evolution of endoscopic cranial surgery and may assist neurosurgeons, trainees, and researchers in identifying established research domains, emerging priorities, and areas requiring higher-level clinical evidence.