Eye-controlled, power wheelchair performs well for ALS patients.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Our pilot study tested the feasibility and performance of an eye-controlled power wheelchair for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.

Methods

In this prospective pilot study, participants drove the wheelchair three times around an indoor course. We assessed the time to complete the course; starting and stopping on command; turning 90, 135, and 180 degrees; time to backup; and obstacle negotiation. Following their use of the wheelchair, subjects were given a questionnaire to assess user experience.

Results

Twelve patients participated, and all were able to complete three trials without difficulty. Eight participants completed all of the individual tasks (eg, turning, stopping, etc.) without any errors. Overall performance ratings were high across al

SUBMITTER: Elliott MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6851551 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature