Category: News

KCOI & KCOA: Committed to Community Through Charitable Giving 

Posted on | by Crux KC

At Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) and Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance (KCOA), our mission goes beyond delivering exceptional orthopedic care. We are deeply committed to strengthening the communities we serve by supporting organizations and initiatives that uplift lives, promote wellness and foster equality. 

Over the years, KCOI & KCOA have actively partnered with and supported numerous organizations that share our vision for a healthier, more equitable future. Our efforts extend beyond financial contributions—we engage in volunteering, leadership roles and sponsorships that create lasting impacts. 

Making a Difference: Organizations We Support 

To date, KCOI & KCOA have partnered with and contributed to an impressive array of nonprofits that align with our values. These include: 

  • Cornerstones of Care: Supporting trauma-informed care and family preservation services. 
  • SafeHome of Johnson County: Providing safety and resources for survivors of domestic violence. 
  • Children’s Mercy Hospitals and Clinics: Enhancing pediatric care and advancing children’s health outcomes. 
  • Community Blood Centers: Hosted an on-site mobile blood drive to support local blood donation efforts and help save lives in our community. 
  • Shawnee Mission Educational Foundation: Promoting student success through innovative education programs. 
  • American Heart Association: Raising awareness and funding research for cardiovascular health. 
  • Phoenix Family Foundation: Empowering families through housing stability and financial literacy. 
  • Cancer Action: Offering support and resources for individuals affected by cancer. 
  • Project Uplift: Assisting and uplifting Kansas City’s homeless community. 
  • Kansas City Young Matrons: Promoting philanthropic and educational activities. 
  • Fighting Fentanyl 5K: Raising awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and supporting prevention efforts.
  • KC Care Health Center: Increasing access to quality healthcare for underserved populations. 
  • Children’s Place: Supporting children and families in need. 
  • Shawnee Mission LaSertoma: Advocating for local causes that promote community well-being.
  • UMKC Orthopedic Residency Program: Investing in the next generation of orthopedic professionals. 
  • Kid’s Chance of Kansas and Missouri: Providing scholarships to children affected by workplace injuries. 
  • Arthritis Foundation: Supporting research and resources for arthritis sufferers. 
  • Marlene’s Kaleidoscope: Offering hope and support to individuals in need. 
  • War Horses for Veterans: Providing healing and camaraderie for veterans through equine therapy. 
  • Jaydoc Free Healthcare Clinic: Delivering free healthcare services to the underserved. 

Our team members also hold leadership positions within organizations like KC CARE Health Center and Cornerstones of Care, further demonstrating our deep commitment to serving the Kansas City community. 

Focused Giving: Aligning with Community Needs v

Our approach to charitable giving is intentional and informed. Guided by KCOI’s Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), we focus on addressing critical issues such as access to care, mental health and physical activity. By aligning our efforts with these pressing needs, we ensure our impact is both meaningful and sustainable. 

Recent Highlights: 

  • Fighting Fentanyl 5K: Both KCOA and KCOI supported this important event to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and honor community members like Cooper Davis. 
  • Bespoke Bodies Exhibition: As a sponsor of this exhibit at the National WWI Museum and Memorial, KCOI highlighted the evolution of prosthetic design and its transformative impact on lives. 
  • Sunday Night Live: KCOI’s sponsorship of Kansas City Hospice & Palliative Care’s signature fundraiser helps families navigate illness and grief with dignity. 

Join Us in Making a Difference 

Giving back is at the heart of what we do. Whether supporting local nonprofits, championing healthcare innovation or stepping into leadership roles, we are proud to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

We encourage everyone to join us in these efforts. Together, we can strengthen our community and create a brighter future. 

If you’d like to learn more about what guides KCOI charitable giving in our community, click here.  Learn more about KCOA here.

 

 

Meet Dr. Sean Bonanni, Your Newest Kansas City Expert in Joint Care | KCOI

Posted on | by Crux KC

Dr. Sean BonanniKansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) and Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance (KCOA) are excited to welcome Dr. Sean Bonanni to our expert team of orthopedic specialists. Dr. Bonanni brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in hip and knee joint preservation, with a strong focus on helping patients restore mobility and reclaim their active lifestyles. 

Born in South Africa and raised in Kansas City, Dr. Bonanni has deep roots in the community. He completed his medical degree and residency at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), followed by an esteemed fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at Northwell Health in New York. During his fellowship, he honed his skills in treating a wide range of hip and knee conditions, from arthritis to cartilage injuries, and developed expertise in complex joint replacements and revision surgeries. 

A Patient-First Approach 

Dr. Bonanni’s commitment to patient care is clear in his philosophy: empowering patients to work together in developing personalized treatment plans. He understands that visiting a surgeon can feel intimidating, but he strives to create an approachable environment where patients feel seen, heard and supported every step of the way. 

“I believe in treating my patients as partners in their healthcare journey. It’s not just about performing surgery; it’s about getting them back to their lives and the activities they love, whether that’s hiking, swimming or simply walking without pain,” says Dr. Bonanni. 

Specializing in Hip & Knee Joint Therapy 

With a specialty in hip and knee arthritis, Dr. Bonanni is passionate about helping individuals suffering from chronic pain regain their independence. He treats patients across a broad age spectrum, from their 30s to their 90s, tailoring treatment plans to each person’s needs. His work includes everything from minimally invasive joint preservation techniques to complete joint replacements and complex revisions. 

“Chronic joint pain can be debilitating, impacting daily activities like walking or even standing. My goal is to help patients not just manage their symptoms but truly improve their function and quality of life,” he said. 

Dr. Bonanni also emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive recovery approach, recognizing that his role is only one part of a patient’s journey to healing. He highlights the significance of physical therapy, patient commitment and home support in achieving successful outcomes after surgery. 

Fall Sports and Joint Care: Staying Active and Injury-Free

As the fall season kicks off, many athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts are eager to get back on the field or court. However, with increased activity comes the potential for joint stress and injury, particularly in the hips and knees. Dr. Bonanni offers some essential advice for staying active and avoiding joint injuries during the fall sports season. 

“Staying active is fantastic for your overall health, but it’s important to be mindful of your body, especially if you haven’t been consistently active,” says Dr. Bonanni. “Many people jump into fall sports, whether it’s weekend football games, running or cycling, without properly warming up or conditioning their bodies, which can lead to injuries.” 

Here are Dr. Bonanni’s top tips for protecting your joints this season: 
  • Warm Up Properly: Before engaging in any sport or exercise, it’s crucial to prepare your muscles and joints. A proper warm-up routine that includes dynamic stretches and light cardio can help prevent muscle strain and joint injuries. 
  • Gradually Increase Activity Levels: If you’ve been less active in the summer or are just starting a new sport, don’t push your body too hard right away. Gradually increase your activity level to allow your muscles and joints to adapt. 
  • Strengthen and Condition: Strong muscles support your joints, so incorporating strength training into your routine can help stabilize the hips and knees. Exercises that focus on the core, legs and lower back are especially beneficial for joint health. 
  • Low-Impact Activities for Joint Protection: Activities like swimming and cycling are great low-impact options that help build endurance and strength without putting too much stress on the joints. These can be especially helpful for people experiencing early signs of hip or knee pain. 
  • Listen to Your Body: Joint pain can be a signal that something isn’t right. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your hips or knees, it’s essential to address it early. “Sometimes, simple aches and pains can be managed with rest, ice or physical therapy, but if the pain persists, seeing a specialist for an evaluation is always a smart decision,” says Dr. Bonanni. 

What to Do if You’re Experiencing Joint Pain 

For those in their 30s, 40s or 50s who still want to remain active but experience joint discomfort, Dr. Bonanni suggests a gradual ramp-up to exercise, with a focus on mobility and strengthening exercises. “If you’re starting to experience chronic knee or hip pain, especially as you get older, it’s important to address muscle imbalances and stiffness. In many cases, exercises that improve mobility and strength can alleviate joint pain and allow you to remain active.” 

However, if pain persists or significantly limits your activities, it’s time to consult an expert. “Seeing a specialist can help you get a better understanding of the root cause of your joint pain and provide options for treatment, whether it’s non-surgical methods or, in some cases, surgery,” he adds. 

KCOI and KCOA are thrilled to have Dr. Bonanni as part of our team, where his expertise in joint therapy and dedication to patient-centered care will no doubt benefit many. If you’re experiencing hip or knee pain and want to explore your options, Dr. Bonanni is ready to work with you to find the best path forward. 

Request an Appointment with Dr. Sean Bonanni Today 

Don’t let joint pain slow you down this fall. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bonanni and learn how his specialized care can help you, click here to request an appointment at the KCOA clinics. To learn more about our other expert KCOI providers, please click here.

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute names Gene Austin new CEO

Posted on | by Kiran Chandra

Austin will also lead recently-expanded Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance

Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Clinic of Kansas City (OSMCKC) and Midwest Orthopaedics join KCOA, bringing physician count to 40

LEAWOOD, KS – (January 15, 2024) – Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Gene Austin as its new Chief Executive Officer.  After an extensive search process, Gene was selected from a large group of highly qualified candidates.  Gene will replace Dr. Charles Rhoades, who announced last year his intention to step down from his role of CEO after 25 years, while continuing his orthopedic practice. ​

Photo credit: Mark McDonald Photography

Gene will now lead both KCOI and Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance (KCOA).  KCOA recently announced the addition of two Kansas City-area practices, Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Clinic of Kansas City (OSMCKC) and Midwest Orthopaedics, bringing its physician count to 40. The practice employs over 20 mid-level providers as well.

Gene received a master’s degree in healthcare administration from the University of Missouri and has spent most of his career working in orthopedics.  Most recently, he was CEO of Columbia Orthopaedic Group, a 28-physician group.  He has been involved in and led numerous projects including new construction, major remodeling, corporate redesign as well as EMR and practice management system conversions.

When asked about his vision for the future of KCOI, Gene said, “Building on the organization’s strong foundation, I am energized by the unique opportunity to lead KCOI and KCOA at a such a pivotal time.  For the first time in KCOI’s history, the physician owners and medical staff will be represented by the same practice entity.  At the same time, KCOA’s growth will create new patient service opportunities throughout the metro.  While this is a challenging time for healthcare professionals and organizations, we are facing those challenges with an excellent team and a tradition of clinical excellence.”

KCOI opened its doors in January 2000 and is widely recognized for providing expert and innovative orthopedic and musculoskeletal care and is the region’s first and only orthopedic specialty hospital.

 

About Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute:

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute provides comprehensive orthopedic care; including diagnostic imaging, surgery, pain management services, Ortho Urgent Care, and rehabilitation therapy. KCOI is a physician-owned specialty hospital and joint venture with Saint Luke’s Health System Kansas City.

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Media Contact:

Kiran Chandra | Director of Marketing, KCOI

KChandra@kcoi.com

913-707-4022

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary

Posted on | by Tyler Ride | Leave a Comment on Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary

3651 College Boulevard ● Leawood, Kansas 66211

www.kcoi.com ● 913-253-8956

 

 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Craig A. Brenner

Marketing Manager

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute

cbrenner@kcoi.com

913-253-8956

 

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute Celebrates 20 Year Anniversary

 

Leawood, Kansas, January 14, 2020– On January 14, 2020 Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) will celebrate the 20 year anniversary of their first surgery.  In 1998, many of Kansas City’s leading orthopedic surgeons recognized the unmet need in the community for a hospital that was dedicated exclusively to orthopedic care.  A hospital owned by orthopaedic surgeons and managed by orthopaedic surgeons.  The physicians from Dickson-Diveley Orthopaedics, Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Clinic of Kansas City, and Orthopaedic and Sports medicine Consultants came together with Saint Luke’s Health System to create the hospital known as Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute.  The hospital officially opened their doors in January of 2000 and had their first surgery on January 14, 2000.

“I can’t begin to express how proud I am of the growth of Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute has experienced over the past 20 years,” said Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute CEO Charles E. Rhoades M.D.  “The genesis of the formation of Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute was to provide our community with the highest possible level of orthopedic care.  We have been able to adapt to fit the needs of our community from expanded services such as our Ortho Urgent Care to our recently completed expansion and renovation of the hospital.  We look forward to serving our community for the next 20 years and beyond.”

Since opening in 2000 Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute has expanded the services they provide the community.  In November 2016 the Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute opened Ortho Urgent Care.  The Ortho Urgent Care provides access to highly specialized orthopedic care and sports medicine experts seven days a week when many people are in need of orthopedic care.  The Ortho Urgent Care staff provides rapid diagnosis and treatment for orthopedic injuries that do not require a trip to the emergency room.

To meet the community’s growing need for specialized orthopedic care, Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute broke ground on a 22,000 square foot expansion and renovations of the hospital.  The expansion and renovations began in February 2017 and was completed in July 2019.  The project included renovation of the entire hospital space.  The hospital now has 17 new and modern inpatient rooms, 8 surgical suites, a new interventional spine suite, MRI, outpatient physical and occupational therapy and an orthopedic urgent care open 7 days a week.

Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute has fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons in nearly every sub-specialty.  KCOI performs nearly 7,000 procedures annually including total joint replacements and reconstructions of the shoulder, hand, elbow, knee hip, foot, ankle and spine.

Over the last 20 years, Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute has received national recognition for the elite level of care they provide.  KCOI continually ranks among the top hospital in the region for Joint Replacement and patient experience ranked by independent quality reviewers.  From 2014 – 2019 KCOI received the CareChex Awards for Top 10% in the nation for the categories of Medical Excellence, Patient Safety, and Patient Satisfaction in the areas of overall surgical care, overall hospital care, overall medical care joint replacement, major orthopedic surgery.

In 2019, KCOI received the Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award for Patient Experience in Inpatient Care.  The Guardian of Excellence Award recognizes top-performing health care organizations that have achieved the 95th percentile or above of performance in Patient Experience. Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute is the only hospital in the Kansas City region to receive the 2019 Guardian of Excellence Award.

KCOI’s commitment to safety and quality is highlighted by an amazing low infection rate of 0.08%- 1/50th the national rate of infection for a hospital.

 

About Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute

As the area’s first and only hospital dedicated exclusively to orthopedics, Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute provides comprehensive orthopedic care, from diagnostic imaging to inpatient and outpatient surgery, pain management services, and rehabilitation therapy. Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute is a physician-owned specialty hospital and a joint venture with Saint Luke’s Hospital. Located in Leawood near Overland Park, Kan., the hospital and its Ortho Urgent Care center proudly serve the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area

 

 

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Dr. Kirk McCullough on Anterior Ankle Impingement Correction with the Arthrex Small Hub Small Joint Torpedo™ Shaver Blade

Posted on | by Tyler Ride | Leave a Comment on Dr. Kirk McCullough on Anterior Ankle Impingement Correction with the Arthrex Small Hub Small Joint Torpedo™ Shaver Blade

Dr. Kirk McCullough demonstrates the repair of the anterior ankle impingement using the 3.5 mm small hub, small joint Torpedo™ shaver of the Arthrex® Synergy Resection System. You can watch the entire presentation here.

Dr. Theodore Koreckij, Spine Surgeon, Offers New Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain

Posted on | by webmaster@ridedigital.com | Leave a Comment on Dr. Theodore Koreckij, Spine Surgeon, Offers New Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain

A new treatment is available at Dickson-Diveley Orthopaedics from Theodore Koreckij, M.D., orthopedic spine surgeon. The treatment, called the Intracept® Procedure, is an outpatient, minimally invasive procedure for relief of chronic low back pain. Intracept is indicated for patients who have experienced low back pain for more than six months and have not responded to nonsurgical treatments.


The Intracept Procedure uses radiofrequency ablation to relieve chronic low back pain.

The Intracept Procedure blocks transmission of pain signals from the basivertebral nerve, which is located in the bones of the spine (vertebrae). To perform the procedure, Dr. Koreckij advances a specialized probe into the vertebrae through a small incision in the lower back. Once the Intracept probe is positioned at the precise location of the pain-sensing basivertebral nerve, it uses radiofrequency energy (heat) to disable the nerve, rendering it unable to transmit pain signals.

Here is a short video about the Intracept Procedure and how it works.

Results: Decreased Low Back Pain

Dr. Koreckij has been performing the FDA-cleared procedure as part of a second Level I Clinical Study since September 2017. The study, which was designed to corroborate and confirm the results of the first clinical study, closed enrollment earlier this year with superior results. According to Relievant Medsystems, the company that developed the Intracept Procedure, study participants reported a greater than 50 percent decrease in pain at their three-month follow up.

As a result of the study’s successful completion, the Intracept Procedure is now available commercially. Dickson-Diveley Orthopaedics, located inside Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute, is currently one of only two facilities in a six-state region to offer the procedure.

“When it comes to back pain treatments, it’s rare to halt a study ahead of schedule, so the early completion speaks volumes about the positive outcomes we can achieve with the Intracept Procedure,” Dr. Koreckij said. “I am thrilled to offer this option to help improve quality of life for people with chronic low back pain.”

About Dr. Koreckij, Orthopedic Spine Surgeon

A board-certified and fellowship-trained spine surgeon, Dr. Koreckij specializes in a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatment options for adult degenerative disorders of the spine and conditions associated with metastatic disease. His commitment to evidence-based medicine and staying current in the latest treatments for spine diseases led to his involvement in the INTRACEPT study.

To consult with Dr. Koreckij about the Intracept Procedure or other treatment options for back and neck pain, call 913-319-7600. New patients may also request an appointment online.

Demystifying Wrist and Ligament Injuries

Posted on | by webmaster@ridedigital.com | Leave a Comment on Demystifying Wrist and Ligament Injuries

Ankle and knee injuries certainly top the list when it comes to the most common injuries in basketball and football players.  However, wrist injuries, such as the one plaguing the University of Kansas depth chart  should not be overlooked.

Frequently, wrist injuries such as fractures can be quickly diagnosed by an xray.  However, it is common for injuries not to be identified until an MRI of the wrist is obtained.  MRI imaging allows the orthopedic surgeon to identify injuries to the soft tissues as well as injuries to the bone that may not be apparent on the x-ray alone.

In the most recent publicized case, X-ray alone was not able to identify the injury of concern, and an MRI was needed.

I would argue that, in addition to a high quality x-ray reviewed by an orthopedic wrist specialist, a detailed examination is essential to pick up the necessity of higher resolution imaging such as an MRI.  It is the combination of X-ray imaging and high quality examination that provides for the best screen for the athlete with a wrist injury.

The anatomy of the wrist is complex, and its ligament names are not as famous as that of the “anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow (UCL).  The most frequently injured ligament requiring surgical management is called the scapholunate ligament.  An orthopedic wrist specialist is best suited to evaluate for this injury clinically, and provide appropriate management.  Treatment of these injuries could include casting, splinting, hand therapy or surgery.

Beware of self-diagnosing a wrist injury as a “sprain”. Even wrist fractures can behave like a “sprain”. Best to be safe and not sorry and get a high quality x-ray and thorough wrist evaluation by an orthopedic wrist specialist.

Dr. Kenneth P. Unruh

How Direct Access To Physical Therapy Benefits Your Life

Posted on | by webmaster@ridedigital.com | Leave a Comment on How Direct Access To Physical Therapy Benefits Your Life

News

Physical Therapy Without A Doctor’s Referral
Back pain from yard work over the weekend? Sore ankle from your slow pitch softball game? Knee arthritis acting up again? You’ve had these symptoms before, right? Physical therapy helped take care of the problem and got you back to life. In the past, that meant taking time scheduling an appointment with your physician to receive a physical therapy referral. This process takes time plus an extra co-pay to your doctor. Meanwhile, you are in pain and you already know what the solution is. The need for waiting and an extra trip to the doctor are now in the past. In the state of Kansas, you now have direct access to physical therapy. Here is everything you need to know about direct access and how it can make your life, and your recovery, easier.
What Does Direct Access Mean For Physical Therapy?
In popular culture, the word “access” implies exclusivity – like a backstage pass to a rock concert or high level clearance to government files. When it comes to direct access to physical therapy, however, the opposite is true. Instead of physician referral, or MD approval, in the State of Kansas if you need physical therapy, “Come on in!” That’s right, direct access essentially cuts out the middleman. If you need physical therapy, call our office and schedule an appointment.
What Are The Benefits Of Direct Access PT?
Direct access saves times allowing quicker access for you to begin receiving treatment from one of our highly skilled and specially certified therapists.
How Does Physical Therapy Benefit You And Your Life?
Our physical therapists at Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) are able to provide highly attentive and personalized care. All of our Physical & Occupational Therapy rehab sessions are conducted one-on-one between you and the therapist. We are able to create a personalized treatment plan and home exercises both printed and electronic with videos. This will help you on your path to achieving your goals and returning to activity. If at the end of two weeks of care or sooner at KCOI, your therapist feels that you should see a physician, they can assist in scheduling you with an appropriate orthopedic specialist here at the KCOI. We have board certified and fellowship trained physicians on staff in every area of orthopedics.
Does Insurance Cover Direct Access Physical Therapy?
All processes are handled the same way they would be if you were referred by a physician. We will verify your insurance prior to your initial visit. However, if the insurance verification staff finds any issues regarding your being a Self-Referral, with no doctor prescription, then the staff will contact you to let you know that you would need to either become private pay or would need to obtain a prescription for physical therapy.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 913-253-8980
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