Name of the Procedure:

Common Names: Footrest Replacement
Technical/Medical Term: Footrest, lower extension tube, replacement only, each (HCPCS Code: K0043)

Summary

Footrest, lower extension tube, replacement is a procedure involving the installation of a new lower extension tube for the footrest of a wheelchair. This ensures the footrest is functional, providing necessary support and comfort to the wheelchair user.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Worn-out or broken footrests in wheelchairs.

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• Improved stability and support for the wheelchair user.
• Enhanced comfort and usability of the wheelchair.

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• Damaged or malfunctioning lower extension tube of the wheelchair footrest.

Patient Criteria:

• Any wheelchair user whose footrest lower extension tube is damaged or worn out.

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No special preparation is necessary.

  Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Visual inspection of the wheelchair to confirm the need for replacement.

Procedure Description

1. Inspection: The healthcare provider inspects the current state of the lower extension tube.
2. Removal: The damaged or worn tube is carefully removed from the footrest assembly.
3. Replacement: A new lower extension tube is installed, securing it to ensure stability and proper alignment.
4. Adjustment: Final adjustments are made to ensure the footrest provides optimal support.

Tools/Equipment Used:

• Standard toolkit (screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.)

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not applicable.

Duration

Typically takes about 15–30 minutes.

Setting

Usually performed in:

• Hospital settings
• Outpatient clinics
• Home visits by mobility aid technicians

Personnel

• Healthcare Technician or Physical Therapist specializing in mobility aids.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Improper fitting leading to discomfort.

  Rare Risks:

• None significant.

Management of Complications:

• Adjustments to the fitting can be made promptly if discomfort is reported.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Enhanced support and comfort.
• Better mobility and safety for the wheelchair user.

Realization Timeline:

• Immediate improvement post-installation.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• None required specifically related to recovery.

Expected Recovery Time:

• No recovery time needed.

Restrictions/Follow-Up:

• Routine maintenance checks of the wheelchair as per the normal schedule.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Entire footrest replacement.

  Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Full footrest replacement may offer a broader refurbishment but is costlier and takes longer than a tube replacement.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients may experience minor discomfort while the wheelchair is being adjusted.

After the Procedure:

• Immediate use of the wheelchair with enhanced comfort.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• No pain expected; any reported discomfort can be managed with quick adjustments.