Factors associated with loss to follow-up in surgical trials

Loss to follow-up (LTFU) is uncommon in surgical randomized controlled trials. Characteristics associated with reduced LTFU include standard-of-care outcome assessments, surgery for transplantation or cancer. Increased LTFU risk is seen in trials with patient-reported outcomes and longer follow-up periods. Understanding these factors can help investigators anticipate and address LTFU to ensure trial integrity.