Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the rate of owner return for postoperative radiographic follow-up after fracture stabilization with implants. A secondary aim was to investigate the impact of distance from the hospital, species (dog vs cat), breed, pet age, complications, and invoice on follow-up.
Methods: Medical records of 145 animals that underwent open reduction and internal fixation with implants between January 2022 and May 2023 were reviewed, and logistic regression was used to identify predictors of return for follow-up.
Results: Among 145 cases, the baseline return rate was 79.1%. Greater driving distance was associated with return, with each additional mile increasing the odds of return by 40%. Older pet age decreased the odds of return by 6% per year, and higher invoice amounts decreased the odds by 21% per $1,000 increase. Breed had a minimal effect on return.
Conclusions: Return behavior was most strongly influenced by distance, pet age, and financial cost. The unexpected finding that greater distance increased return odds may reflect higher motivation among clients traveling farther or limited availability of local specialty care. These results suggest that client investment and economic considerations play central roles in follow-up compliance and warrant further prospective investigation.
Clinical relevance: This study provides insight into postoperative follow-up compliance at a veterinary teaching hospital, emphasizing that follow-up rates may be influenced by distance, invoice, species, or pet age.
