Evaluation of a wheelchair prototype with non-conventional, manual propulsion.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the results of a user satisfaction questionnaire on a new type of lever-propelled wheelchair designed to avoid the discomfort and potential repetitive strain injuries related to conventional hand-rim propulsion. METHODS: Seventeen participants filled out a questionnaire to rate their conventional wheelchair and the prototype (after 2 days' use) in terms of comfort, adjustability, steering/ride, manoeuvrability, stability when crossing obstacles, safety, weight, size, portability and appearance. Overall satisfaction was also scored. RESULTS: According to the user questionnaire results, the lever-propelled prototype chair was rated as significantly superior than conventional wheelchairs in terms of comfort, safety and overall satisfaction. The prototype was rated significantly inferior in terms of size, adaptability, appearance and crossing obstacles. CONCLUSION: We conclude that the prototype wheelchair is highly acceptable and comfortable and can be recommended to disabled sportspersons. The prototype's weak points are mainly related to ergonomic aspects, which could be improved in future models.

[Fibroma of the tunica albuginea. Apropos of a case]. / Fibrome de la tunique albuginée. A propos d'un cas.

Fibroma of the tunica albuginea is a rare, benign lesion. Only twenty cases have been published. We have observed one case a solitary testis of a 40 years old patient. The treatment performed was enucleation. The interest of this case consists in the rarity of the case and the operative solution proposed. After a review of the literature, we summarise the characteristics of this disease.