Isolated wetlands, as a unique type of wetland, play a key ecological role in hydrological regulation, carbon storage, and biodiversity conservation. Although many studies have been conducted on the monitoring and ecological function assessment of isolated wetlands, a comprehensive and critical review is still lacking. Through a systematic analysis of the literature from the past two decades, we found despite the large number of existing studies on isolated wetlands, direct comparison between them is often difficult due to differences in definitions. Second, human activities and climate change are the primary factors affecting wetland hydrology and leading to wetland isolation in the short term. Third, remote sensing and landscape models serve as basic tools for monitoring and analyzing isolated wetlands, but the low temporal and spatial accuracy of relevant data, along with the short research time spans, limit in-depth studies. Finally, isolated wetlands have multiple ecological functions that exhibit spatial heterogeneity and change over time. In summary, isolated wetlands have indispensable ecological functions that are currently underestimated. It is necessary to scientifically define the concept of isolated wetlands, improve the capability and accuracy of long-term dynamic monitoring, and conduct multi-functional coupling research in the future. Additionally, when formulating future wetland protection and management strategies, attention should be paid to isolated wetlands, and the temporal and spatial differences in their ecological benefits should be considered.