Factors associated with early postoperative survey completion in orthopaedic surgery patients

To determine factors associated with survey compliance 2-weeks postoperatively.

1269 patients age 17-years and older participating in the Maryland Orthopaedic Registry from August 2015-March 2018 were administered a baseline questionnaire preoperatively and emailed a follow-up questionnaire 10-days postoperatively. Demographics were self-reported and medical records reviewed for relevant medical history.

609 patients (48.0%) completed both the baseline and 2-week surveys. A decreased likelihood of 2-week survey completion was seen in patients who identified as black, smokers, patients without a college education, patients who were unmarried, unemployed, had a lower income, or covered by government-sponsored insurance (p < 0.05). Other preoperative variables significantly associated with decreased likelihood of completion included surgery on the right side, upper extremity surgery, preoperative opioid use, no specific injury leading to surgery, lower preoperative expectations, depression and fatigue symptoms, and worse pain, function, and activity scores (p < 0.05). Multivariable analysis confirmed race, operative extremity, education, insurance status, smoking, activity level, and pain scores were independent predictors of survey completion.

Several demographic and preoperative variables are associated with survey completion 2-weeks post-orthopaedic surgery. The results provide insight into patient populations that may be targeted in order to assure higher survey compliance and improve analysis of patient-reported outcomes.