Uro-oncology is a rapidly evolving multidisciplinary field. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (SR-MAs) are crucial for synthesizing the growing body of evidence and guiding clinical practice. This study aimed to analyze the publication trends, bibliographic characteristics, key contributors, and emerging research areas within uro-oncology SR-MAs indexed in the Scopus database over a ten-year period (2020-2025). The goal was to provide a quantitative overview of the research landscape to inform future directions and resource allocation.

This descriptive-analytical study utilized the Scopus database to identify all systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in the top 20 uro-oncology journals between 2020 and 2025. Bibliometric and scientometric analyses were conducted using EndNote, R (with Bibliometrix and Biblioshiny), and VOSviewer. Data extracted included publication year, journal, authors, keywords, and citation counts. Bradford's Law was used to identify core journals. Citation and co-authorship networks were visualized. Statistical analysis in SPSS focused on annual variations in publication and citation frequencies. Inclusion criteria were SR-MAs from the top 20 uro-oncology journals indexed in Scopus with complete metadata. Exclusion criteria included non-review articles, reviews from other journals, and incomplete metadata.

The analysis revealed fluctuations in annual scientific production in uro-oncology, with a slight peak in 2021 followed by a notable decline in 2024 (Figure 1). The average citations per article showed a declining trend from 5 in 2020 to less than 1 in 2025. Core journals identified included Cancers, Frontiers in Oncology, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences. Cancers demonstrated the highest cumulative article production. In terms of influence (H-index), International Journal of Molecular Sciences led, followed by European Urology and Cancers. Highly cited sources included publications by Siegel R. L. and Fizazi K. The most prolific authors were Shariat S. F. and Wang Y. Collaboration patterns highlighted key authors and research links. Keyword co-occurrence analysis indicated emerging research areas such as integrating immunotherapy and chemotherapy for bladder cancer, molecular biomarker development, and the use of biobanks. A significant limitation was the presence of missing metadata in Scopus, particularly for "Keywords Plus," "Descriptors," "Number of References," and "Science Categories."

The study highlights a concerning trend of declining research output and citation impact in uro-oncology SR-MAs between 2020 and 2025. This decline may be attributed to various factors, including evolving research priorities, financial constraints, and the impact of global events. The identification of core journals and influential authors provides valuable insights into the central hubs of knowledge production. The emerging research areas reflect current priorities in the field. However, the significant amount of missing metadata in the Scopus database poses a challenge for comprehensive bibliometric analysis and impact assessment. The study also underscores the growing importance of biobanks and the need for improved standardization and accessibility.

Uro-oncology research, as reflected in SR-MAs within Scopus, faces challenges, including declining publication growth and citation frequency. Addressing limitations such as incomplete metadata and fostering stronger international collaborations are crucial for revitalizing the field. While key journals and researchers continue to contribute significantly, a coordinated effort involving strategic funding, enhanced bibliometric tools, and optimized data curation is necessary to ensure sustained impactful and innovative research in uro-oncology to address critical clinical needs.