In an era where algorithms often dictate what we see online, a 72-year-old Australian woman’s desperate search for Alzheimer’s treatments led her family to an unexpected beacon of hope: a trending video on Douyin (China’s TikTok). The clip featured Dr. Cheng Chongjie, a neurosurgeon at Jinshan Campus, a subsidiary entity of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (CQMU), explaining a groundbreaking procedure called deep cervical lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA). 

For Ms. C, whose cognitive and physical abilities had deteriorated rapidly over four years despite standard therapies, this short video became the catalyst for a 7,000-kilometer journey to Chongqing—a city now emerging as a hub for medical innovation.

Recently, the Neurosurgery Department of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University (Jinshan Campus) achieved a remarkable feat by successfully conducting a Lymphaticovenous Anastomosis (LVA) on Ms. C, an Australian Alzheimer's patient. Post-operation, Ms. C has witnessed substantial improvements in cognitive function, speech capabilities, and motor skills. This groundbreaking treatment has injected new hope into the global battle against Alzheimer's disease, marking a significant milestone in the field of Alzheimer's treatment.

Dr. Cheng Chongjie's team offers surgical treatment for Alzheimer's disease. (Photo: CQMU)

From Perth to Chongqing: A Surgery Forged by Digital Discovery

Diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2019, Ms. C faced a bleak prognosis. Medications slowed nothing; she lost her speech, struggled to recognize loved ones, and relied entirely on caregivers. “We felt powerless,” her husband, Mr. Yao, recalled. "By sheer coincidence, an old friend from Malaysia shared with us the groundbreaking achievements China has made in LVA surgery. Then, I happened to come across Dr. Cheng’s videos on Douyin. I immediately added him on WeChat, and to our immense relief, he responded to me nicely and promptly." The procedure, pioneered by CQMU’s neurosurgery department, targets Alzheimer’s pathology at its root. By rerouting blocked lymphatic vessels in the neck to veins, LVA enhances the brain’s ability to flush out toxic proteins like beta-amyloid, a key culprit in neurodegeneration. For Ms. C, this meant a chance to reclaim fragments of her fading self.

Dr. Cheng Chongjie is checking on patients after surgery. (Photo: Deng Qihai)

The role of social media in this process cannot be overstated. Hospitals like CQMU have recognized the power of digital platforms to reach international audiences, sharing patient testimonials, surgical explanations, and live Q&A sessions with doctors. These efforts have transformed how medical information spreads, allowing patients in distant countries to learn about treatments they might never have encountered otherwise. Once the decision was made, the logistical challenges of international medical travel came into focus. Ms. C’s condition made long-distance travel difficult, but CQMU’s International Medical Department worked to streamline the process. From coordinating with Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport for a smooth arrival to assembling a multidisciplinary team of neurologists, cardiologists, and rehabilitation specialists, the hospital ensured that every detail was addressed. The family noted the surprising ease of the transition, despite the language and cultural differences. English-speaking staff guided them through each step, and the medical team took extra care to explain the procedure in detail, alleviating their concerns.

The patient and family meet with the attending medical staff. (Photo: Deng Qihai)

Where Bytes Meet Biology: Chongqing’s Prescription for Global Patients

Beyond the individual success story, Ms. C’s case speaks to a larger shift in global healthcare dynamics. Chongqing, traditionally known for its industrial and economic significance, is now emerging as a destination for medical innovation. Hospitals like CQMU are investing in international outreach, recognizing that their expertise can attract patients worldwide. This is not just about medical tourism; it’s about positioning Chongqing as a leader in specialized treatments, particularly in fields like neurology and degenerative diseases. The city’s ability to combine advanced surgical techniques with patient-centered care is reshaping its reputation on the global stage.

The International/VIP Ward of the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University. (Photo: CQMU)

Ms. C’s story is just one example of how digital connectivity is transforming medicine. What began as a fleeting encounter on a social media feed became a lifeline for a family that had nearly lost hope. As more global patients turn to the internet for answers, hospitals like CQMU are proving that innovation can transcend borders when paired with effective communication. For Chongqing, the implications are clear: the city is no longer just a place on a map, but a beacon for those seeking cutting-edge care. And in an age where information travels faster than ever, that reputation will only continue to grow...