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A Postoperative Evaluation Guideline for Computer-Assisted Reconstruction of the Mandible
Published on: January 28, 2020
A WeChat mini-program-based perioperative cognitive management tool (WACDAM): development and clinical evaluation in
Yujia Wu1,2,3, Zhen Feng4,5,6, Jiangyan Fu4,5,6
1Department of Anesthesiology, Stomatological Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
Perioperative Medicine (London, England)
|May 13, 2026
Summary
This study developed WACDAM, a WeChat-based mobile health tool, to manage postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) in elderly cancer patients. The applet improved doctor-patient communication and efficiently identified high-risk patients, offering a scalable digital solution.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Oncology
- Digital Health
Background:
- Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a significant complication in elderly patients undergoing oromaxillofacial cancer surgery, hindering recovery and increasing costs.
- Effective perioperative cognitive management is crucial but challenging, with low adoption of mobile health (mHealth) by older adults due to usability issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel WeChat-based mHealth intervention, WACDAM, for perioperative POCD management in older adults undergoing oromaxillofacial cancer surgery.
- To assess the clinical effectiveness, usability, and implementation value of the WACDAM applet.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods, participatory design approach was used, involving geriatric patients, clinicians, and developers to create WACDAM.
- 112 elderly patients undergoing oral malignancy resection were enrolled; POCD was assessed using the Z-score method, and risk factors were analyzed via multivariable logistic regression.
- Usability and satisfaction were measured using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and user version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS), supplemented by semi-structured interviews.
Main Results:
- The incidence of POCD was 33.1% (37/112). Independent risk factors included older age, lower education, hypertension, sleep disorders, prolonged anesthesia, and intraoperative hypotension.
- WACDAM achieved a SUS score of 70.17 and a mean uMARS objective score of 3.65±1.03, with high scores in functionality.
- Interviews revealed WACDAM significantly enhanced doctor-patient communication (P<0.01), improved POCD management efficiency, and was perceived as valuable by users.
Conclusions:
- WACDAM, a WeChat mini-program, was successfully developed using participatory design for POCD management in elderly patients.
- The platform features an age-friendly interface and dual management channels, reducing technological barriers and enabling early identification of high-risk POCD cases.
- This research offers a scalable, low-cost digital solution for perioperative cognitive management in elderly patients.
