Name of the Procedure:

Power Wheelchair Accessory Replacement: Caster Wheel (Excludes Tire), Any Size, Replacement Only (HCPCS Code: E2395)

Summary

Replacing a caster wheel on a power wheelchair (excluding the tire) ensures that the device remains functional and safe for use. This involves swapping out worn or damaged caster wheels with new ones.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems Addressed:

Primarily, this procedure addresses the wear and tear or damage to the caster wheels of a power wheelchair.

Goals:

• Ensure smooth and safe maneuverability of the power wheelchair.
• Improve user comfort and mobility.
• Extend the lifespan of the power wheelchair.

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions Warranting the Procedure:

• Difficulty maneuvering the wheelchair.
• Visible wear or damage to the caster wheel.
• Wobbling or instability while using the wheelchair.

Patient Criteria:

• Users of power wheelchairs with worn, damaged, or dysfunctional caster wheels.

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• Ensure the wheelchair is clean and accessible.
• Charge the wheelchair fully if it is battery-operated.

• Check for and provide any necessary wheelchair specifications to the technician.

  Diagnostic Tests:

• Visual inspection and possibly a functional test of the wheelchair.

Procedure Description

1. The patient and technician ensure the wheelchair is powered off and secure.
2. The technician removes the damaged or worn-out caster wheel using appropriate tools.
3. A new caster wheel (compatible with the wheelchair) is installed in place.
4. The technician ensures that the new caster wheel is securely fitted and functional.
5. A final test is performed to confirm the wheelchair's mobility and stability.

Tools and Equipment:

• Screwdrivers, wrenches, and other specialized tools depending on the model of the wheelchair.
• Replacement caster wheel (E2395 compliant).

Anesthesia or Sedation Details:

• Not applicable for this procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically takes around 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure can be performed in various settings:

• Home (by a visiting technician).
• Medical equipment service centers.
• Outpatient clinic settings.

Personnel

• Technicians or healthcare professionals specialized in wheelchair maintenance.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Improper installation leading to instability.
• Potential for minor injuries due to handling tools.

Rare Risks:

• Damage to other components of the wheelchair during replacement.

Management:

Ensuring skilled personnel perform the procedure and conducting a final safety check.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Enhanced safety and stability of the wheelchair.
• Smoother ride and improved maneuverability.
• Immediate improvement in wheelchair functionality.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Regular checks to ensure the caster wheel remains secure.
• Routine maintenance.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate return to normal wheelchair use.

Restrictions and Follow-up:

• No specific restrictions; follow-up appointments if issues arise.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Replacing the entire wheel assembly, including the tire.
• Using alternate forms of mobility aids during repair time.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Full wheel assembly replacement may be more comprehensive but is also more costly.
• Alternative mobility aids might not offer the same level of comfort or independence as the repaired power wheelchair.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The patient should experience minimal to no discomfort; the procedure is mostly mechanical.

After the Procedure:

• Improved wheelchair performance.
• Pain-free and enhanced mobility.
• Any minor discomfort from the adjustment period can be managed with minor adaptive techniques.

Pain Management:

• Typically not required for this procedure.