Name of the Procedure:

Wheelchair with Detachable Arms, Desk or Full Length Swing-Away Detachable Elevating Legrests
Common Names: Adjustable Wheelchair, Customized Wheelchair
Technical/Medical Term: E1150 Wheelchair

Summary

A specialized wheelchair designed to enhance mobility and comfort for individuals with limited lower body movement. It features detachable arms and adjustable leg rests that can be elevated and swung away for ease of transfer and customization according to user needs.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Mobility limitations due to neurological, muscular, or skeletal conditions.
• Patients recovering from surgery or injuries affecting the lower body.
• Chronic conditions like arthritis or severe muscle wasting.

Goals and Expected Outcomes:

• Improve mobility and independence.
• Facilitate transfer in and out of the wheelchair.
• Enhance comfort and support for prolonged sitting.

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Severe arthritis.
• Paralysis.
• Post-operative recovery.
• Muscle weakness or joint deformities.

Patient Criteria:

• Patients unable to walk or walk with severe difficulty.
• Individuals needing assistance for mobility in their daily living activities.

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No fasting or special medication adjustments required.

  Assessments Required:

• Physical examination to determine the appropriate wheelchair configuration.
• Occupational therapy assessment to customize features according to patient needs.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Conduct necessary physical and functional assessments.
2. Customization: Customize the wheelchair by setting appropriate seat width, armrests (desk or full length), and leg rests (elevating and swing-away).
3. Configuration: Detachable features are adjusted to the patient's comfort and mobility requirements.
4. Testing and Training: Ensure the patient and caregivers are instructed on proper usage.

Tools and Equipment Used:

• Wheelchair frame, armrests, elevating leg rests.

  Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not applicable.

Duration

• The fitting and customization session typically takes 1-2 hours.

Setting

• Outpatient clinic or home setting.

Personnel

• Occupational therapists.
• Physical therapists.
• Medical equipment specialists.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minor discomfort during the initial adjustment period.
• Potential skin irritation or pressure sores from prolonged use without adequate cushioning.

Rare Risks:

• Mechanical failure of detachable parts, which can be mitigated with routine maintenance.

Management:

• Regular follow-up and necessary adjustments to the configuration.

Benefits

• Enhanced mobility and independence.
• Easier transfer in and out of the wheelchair.

• Tailored support for improved comfort.

  Realization Duration:

• Benefits can be realized immediately after proper adjustment and familiarization.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Routine use as per instruction.

• Regular maintenance of wheelchair components.

  Expected Recovery Time:

• Not applicable, continuous use depending on patient condition.

  Follow-Up Appointments:

• Assessments every 6-12 months for re-adjustment or maintenance.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Standard wheelchairs without customizable features.
• Electric wheelchairs.

Pros and Cons:

• Standard Wheelchairs: Less customization, lower cost but may not meet all comfort and mobility needs.
• Electric Wheelchairs: Easier to use but more expensive and less suitable for patients requiring frequent position adjustments.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients will partake in the customization process actively, ensuring comfort levels are met.

After the Procedure:

• May experience a learning curve while getting used to the new adjustments.
• Pain management is typically not needed.
• Comfort measures include providing suitable cushioning and proper training.