Whole-disease-cycle management in a collaborative care model based on the WeChat platform: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: This study aims to explore the application of a WeChat-based telemedicine collaborative care model for managing the full disease cycle of a child with Type I congenital vaginal atresia complicated by megacolon. Given the complexity of the condition, the need for multidisciplinary care, and challenges such as difficult access to follow-up, this model addresses critical gaps by providing continuous, convenient, and effective remote guidance.

Patient concerns: A 13-year-old girl from the Shaxian area of Sanming City was admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of Type I vaginal atresia and megacolon on July 9, 2023. The girl had experienced difficulty with bowel movements for the past 10 years and developed cyclical lower abdominal pain 6 months ago without any apparent cause. An abdominal and gynecological ultrasound at a local hospital revealed the absence of normal uterine, cervical, and vaginal structures.

Diagnoses: In this case, we summarize the full-cycle management experience of 1 case of Type I vaginal atresia combined with megacolon.

Interventions: Key nursing points include: forming a multidisciplinary collaborative care team, and implementing precise management throughout the process using a telemedicine model.

Outcomes: Preoperatively, gynecologists from external hospitals were consulted to develop preoperative treatment, care plans, and surgical strategies. Intraoperatively, enhanced cooperation among surgeons, anesthesiologists, and nurses ensured the smooth progress of the surgery. Postoperatively, the multidisciplinary team provided timely, effective, convenient, and cost-efficient management through real-time remote guidance based on the patient's condition. During home care, communication with multidisciplinary professionals was maintained via WeChat, establishing a telemedicine-based continuity of care plan.

Lessons: This case highlights the effectiveness of a WeChat-based collaborative care model in the full-cycle management of a child with Type I vaginal atresia complicated by megacolon, providing convenient, professional, and continuous treatment and care with significant clinical benefits.

Keywords: case report; congenital vaginal atresia; megacolon.