Name of the Procedure

Power Wheelchair, Group 2 Standard, Captain's Chair, Patient Weight Capacity up to and including 300 Pounds (K0823)

• Common Names: Electric wheelchair, Power mobility device
• Technical/Medical Term: Group 2 Power wheelchair, K0823

Summary

A Power Wheelchair (K0823) is an electric mobility device specifically designed for individuals with disabilities or mobility impairments. It features a captain's chair for enhanced comfort and is suitable for patients weighing up to 300 pounds.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions: Conditions like severe arthritis, muscular dystrophy, spinal cord injuries, or other mobility-limiting disabilities.
• Goals: To provide increased mobility, independence, and improved quality of life for patients with significant mobility impairments.

Indications

• Symptoms/Conditions: Severe mobility impairment, chronic pain while walking, significant weakness or fatigue.
• Patient Criteria: Inability to perform manual wheelchair propulsion, need for enhanced seating and positioning.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure Instructions: No specific preparation like fasting is required. However, patients should consult their physician to ensure proper prescription and fitting.
• Diagnostic Tests/Assessments: Comprehensive mobility assessment by a healthcare provider, possibly including physical and occupational therapy evaluations.

Procedure Description

1. Assessment: A healthcare provider performs a thorough assessment to determine the patient's need for a power wheelchair.
2. Prescription: A physician provides a prescription based on the assessment.
3. Equipment Specification: Parameters like weight capacity, seat type, and additional features are specified.
4. Fitting and Adjustments: The wheelchair is custom-fitted to the patient's needs, including seat adjustments and control settings.
5. Training: Patients receive training on how to safely operate the wheelchair.

• Tools/Equipment: Group 2 standard power wheelchair (K0823), captain's chair seat, joystick, and control system.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not applicable.

Duration

• Assessment and Fitting: Can take several hours distributed over multiple sessions.
• Training: Typically a few hours spread over 1 or 2 sessions.

Setting

• Performed in: Outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, or suppliers of durable medical equipment.

Personnel

• Involved Professionals: Physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and durable medical equipment specialists.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Battery issues leading to wheelchair malfunction, joystick or control problems.
• Rare Risks: Mechanical failure resulting in injury, skin irritation from prolonged use.
• Management: Regular maintenance and prompt technical support.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Enhanced mobility, improved independence, better quality of life.
• Realization Time: Immediate improvement in mobility upon successful fitting and training.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Regular maintenance of the wheelchair.
• Recovery Time: Not applicable as patients are not recovering from a surgical procedure.
• Follow-up: Periodic evaluations to ensure wheelchair functionality and fit.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Manual wheelchairs, scooters, walkers.
• Pros and Cons:
  • Manual Wheelchairs: Cheaper, require physical effort.
  • Scooters: Easier to transport but may not offer the same level of support.
  • Walkers: Provide mobility support but require some walking ability.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Initial fitting may involve minor discomfort during adjustments.
• After Procedure: Patients might experience a learning curve; initial use may cause mild soreness.
• Pain Management: Generally not required but ergonomic adjustments can enhance comfort. Comfort measures include cushioned seating and customizing backrest support.