 This paper conducted a bibliometric analysis of 288 articles related to the propagation and evolution of pre-existing cracks in rock materials with defects. It found that there has been an increase in publications over time, with two distinct phases of emergence and rapid development. The countries of China, the United States, and Iran had the highest publication output. The most frequently cited journals were INTJ Rock Mech Min, ENG Fract Mech, and Rock Mech Rock ENG. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of research into the propagation and evolution of pre-existing cracks in rock materials with defects. It also offers potential implications for further research and practice. This article was authored by Xu Zhu, Jinda Zhu, Lu Xiang Wang, and others.