Comparative evaluation of electric wheelchair manoeuvrability.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether manoeuvrability varied between electric wheelchairs.

DESIGN

Randomized, prospective, repeated measures design.

SUBJECTS: Twelve wheelchair users.

METHODS

Three different electric powered indoor/outdoor wheelchairs (Invacare Storm 3, Ottobock B500, and Meyra Champ) intended for use by patients with severe impairments were tested over an indoor and an outdoor circuit. Points were assigned when the users touched the circuit boundaries or failed to pass obstacles. The users completed the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology questionnaire (QUEST).

RESULTS

Performance was significantly worse with Ottobock B500 compared with the other 2 wheelchairs on the indoor test (Wilcoxon, p < 0.05 for both comparisons) and compared with Invacare Storm on the outdoor test (Wilcoxon, p < 0.05). The mean 6-item QUEST score, effectiveness, and simplicity of use were significantly worse for Ottobock B500 than for the other 2 wheelchairs (Wilcoxon, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Differences in manoeuvrability exist between commercially available electric wheelchairs belonging to the same category. Driving tests and QUEST provide complementary and concordant information.