From Innovation to Paradigm Shift: Forecasting Global Trends in Middle Meningeal Artery Embolization

Abstract

Purpose:

Evaluate global interest in middle meningeal artery (MMA) embolization, for subdural hematoma, by analyzing search behavior and academic output using Google Trends and PubMed data.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis conducted using Google Trends data from January 2004 to March 2025 and PubMed publication records from 1965 to 2025. The Google dataset included normalized monthly search volume indices (SVI: 0-100), geographic distribution, and related queries. Academic interest was assessed by annual publication counts. Statistical methods included Mann-Kendall trend tests, Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) unit root tests, Portmanteau white noise tests, and Spearman correlations to evaluate significance and associations. Forecasts were generated using polynomial regression models.

Results:

Search interest remained negligible from 2004 to 2011, increasing modestly through 2019 before accelerating significantly. PubMed publications followed a similar pattern, with sharp growth beginning in 2015. Both datasets exhibited significant upward trends (Mann-Kendall: Tau = 0.80 for PubMed; 0.75 for Google, P < .000001). Trends were confirmed as deterministic (ADF P < .001) and non-random (Portmanteau P < .001). A strong correlation was observed between academic and public interest (Spearman r = .86, R² = .74, P < .001). Polynomial forecasting (R² = .93) projects continued publication growth, estimating 267 ± 24 publications by 2027. Search interest is expected to stabilize at high levels (SVI 70-90).

Conclusion:

Interest in MMA embolization is rapidly accelerating across both public and academic domains. These trends suggest a paradigm shift that may soon influence treatment guidelines, care delivery models, and the global adoption of this technique.