Name of the Procedure:

Seat height less than 17" or equal to or greater than 21" for a high strength, lightweight, or ultralightweight wheelchair (K0056)

Summary

This procedure involves determining and adjusting the seat height of a high strength, lightweight, or ultralightweight wheelchair. The seat height is modified to either less than 17 inches or equal to or greater than 21 inches to accommodate the specific needs of the user.

Purpose

This adaptation addresses mobility challenges and ensures optimal comfort and usability for individuals using wheelchairs. Adjusting the seat height aims to improve overall functionality and mobility, ensuring that the wheelchair meets the user's ergonomic and lifestyle requirements.

Indications

• Specific symptoms or conditions: Individuals with lower limb disabilities, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, or other conditions requiring wheelchair use.
• Patient criteria: Users who need a customized seating height for improved mobility, ease of transfers, or ergonomic support.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions: No specific preparations such as fasting or medication adjustments are needed.
• Diagnostic tests/assessments: Measurement of user’s current seating posture and dimensions to ensure the height adjustment meets their needs.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: A healthcare professional evaluates the user's seating requirements, focusing on posture, comfort, and daily activities.
2. Measurement: Precise measurements of the user’s seating and leg length are taken.
3. Adjustment: Using appropriate tools, the seat height of the wheelchair is adjusted to the specified height—either less than 17" or equal to or greater than 21".
4. Testing: The user tests the adjusted wheelchair to ensure it meets their needs and performs functional tasks to confirm comfort and usability.

• Tools and equipment: Measurement tools (tape measure, ruler), adjustable wrenches, and other hand tools specific to the wheelchair model.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the adjustment.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic, rehabilitation center, or a healthcare provider’s office specializing in mobility aids.

Personnel

• Occupational therapists (OTs)
• Physical therapists (PTs)
• Rehabilitation engineers
• Wheelchair technicians

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minimal; may include temporary discomfort during the initial adjustment period.
• Rare risks: Improper seat height adjustment leading to poor posture or increased discomfort.
• Management: Follow-up assessments to make additional adjustments and monitor user comfort.

Benefits

• Expected benefits: Improved comfort, posture, and overall mobility.
• Realization time: Benefits are typically realized immediately after the adjustment, with further improvements as the user becomes accustomed to the new seat height.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: No specific recovery care is needed, but users should monitor their comfort and report any issues.
• Expected recovery time: Immediate adjustment period, with full adaptation usually within a few days.
• Restrictions/Follow-up: Regular follow-ups to ensure the seat height continues to meet the user’s needs.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Using cushions or other support devices instead of adjusting the seat height.
• Pros and cons: Alternatives might provide temporary solutions but may not be as effective or comfortable as a proper seat height adjustment.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure: Users will remain seated in the wheelchair while adjustments are made, with minimal discomfort.
• After the procedure: Improved comfort and mobility are expected. Pain is minimal, typically managed with standard over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.

By thoroughly understanding this procedure, patients and healthcare providers can ensure that the wheelchair is optimally set up to enhance the user's quality of life.