Abstract: Objective To analyze the research status, theme evolution and hotspots of the application of virtual simulation technology in medical education in China, so as to provide some ideas for further research and support application of virtual simulation technology in medical education. Methods Up to December 31st 2019, we retrieved the literatures from Wan fang Data, VIPs Database and China Knowledge Network (CNKI). Publishing trends, keywords' co-occurrence, keyword topic evolution trend and research hotspot distribution were examined by Cite Space and VOS viewer software based on the available literature data and visual graphs were then generated. Results Totally 682 literatures were retrieved, and the earliest study was reported in 1996. Knowledge structure indicates that “experimental teaching”, “virtual simulation experiment”and “virtual surgery” are the hot spots “virtual reality technology” and “virtual surgery” appeared early and have a good continuity of research hotspots. Research topics gradually diversified after 2013, such as “stomatology”, “rehabilitation medicine”, “plastic surgery” and other keywords showed up. Conclusions The research topics of virtual simulation technology in medical education of China are relatively broad. Since 1996, the overall growth trend of research literature is obvious. “virtual simulation experiment” is the current research hotspot. The research has experienced the initial stage, the expansion stage, and the outbreak stage.

Key words: Virtual simulation, Medical education, Knowledge structure, Bibliometrics