Name of the Procedure:

Power Wheelchair, Group 3 Heavy Duty, Multiple Power Option, Sling/Solid Seat/Back

Summary

This procedure involves providing a medically necessary, powered wheelchair specifically designed for patients with significant mobility impairments. It features multiple power options, a durable heavy-duty frame, a sling or solid seat and back, and can support a weight capacity between 301 and 450 pounds.

Purpose

The goal of this procedure is to enhance mobility and independence for individuals who have severe difficulty walking or moving due to medical conditions. The power wheelchair assists with daily activities, thereby improving quality of life and reducing the need for assistance from others.

Indications

• Severe mobility impairments due to conditions like multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, spinal cord injury, or severe arthritis
• Inability to operate a manual wheelchair effectively
• Need for a highly customizable powered chair due to specific medical needs

Preparation

• Consult with a physician or mobility specialist to assess suitability for the power wheelchair
• Possible physical assessment to measure seating and support needs
• Insurance paperwork and authorization may be required
• No special fasting or medication adjustments needed

Procedure Description

1. Consultation and Assessment:
   • The patient will engage with healthcare providers to determine mobility needs and wheelchair specifications.
2. Customization and Fitting:
   • A wheelchair fitting session to ensure the chair is customized to the patient’s body and needs.
3. Training:
   • Instructions on how to operate the power wheelchair safely.

4. Delivery and Adjustment:

   • Delivery of the wheelchair to the patient’s home and any final adjustments made.

   Tools and Technology Used: Various powered wheel mechanisms, adjustable seating, joystick or sip-and-puff controls.

Duration

The entire process from assessment to receiving the wheelchair can vary from a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on individual customization needs and insurance procedures.

Setting

The assessment and fitting are typically conducted at a mobility clinic or healthcare facility, while the actual use of the wheelchair happens in the patient’s usual living and community environments.

Personnel

• Physicians
• Physical or occupational therapists
• Mobility specialists
• Medical equipment providers

Risks and Complications

• Potential difficulty mastering the controls
• Risk of pressure sores from improper seating if not correctly fitted
• Electrical component malfunction

Benefits

• Significant increase in mobility and independence
• Ability to perform daily activities with less assistance
• Improved quality of life and mental well-being
• Benefits are typically realized immediately upon using the wheelchair

Recovery

• No physical recovery is required as this is not a surgical procedure
• Initial adjustment period to get used to operating the wheelchair
• Regular follow-up to ensure proper adjustments and maintenance of the wheelchair

Alternatives

• Manual wheelchair: Requires physical strength and endurance; less costly but less supportive for those with severe limitations
• Scooter: Less customizable and may not meet all medical needs
• Walker or cane: Suitable for those with partial mobility impairments; less supportive for those with significant mobility issues

Patient Experience

• The patient may feel overwhelmed during the initial training but will usually become more confident and independent with practice.
• The comfort measures include custom seating adjustments to prevent pressure sores and enhance comfort.
• Pain management is generally not necessary but may involve addressing any discomfort from improper seating early on.

The key to success with a power wheelchair lies in thorough customization, proper training, and ongoing adjustments to meet changing needs.