Leo Sebus, a dedicated real estate professional in the Kansas City area, knows a thing or two about navigating complex processes. Much like a home move, his journey toward knee replacement was filled with essential, although sometimes daunting, steps that ultimately led to a rewarding outcome.
“When you’re looking at buying a house, people don’t look forward to the packing and moving,” he says. “They look forward to the result. It’s the same with a knee replacement—if you stay focused on the goal and follow your doctor’s advice, you’ll be happy with the outcome.”
Sebus’s search for the right surgeon was thorough. Initially considering simultaneous knee replacements, he sought advice from others who had undergone the procedure and consulted multiple orthopedic specialists. Through these conversations, Dr. Scott Wingerter at Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance came highly recommended, known for his expertise and innovative techniques. After meeting with Dr. Wingerter, Sebus was reassured by his confidence and knowledge, ultimately choosing him for the surgery.
“Dr. Wingerter’s approach wasn’t just about the surgery; he had a clear plan for my recovery that included advanced technology and a team dedicated to my well-being,” Sebus said.
Preparation became central to Sebus’s approach, guided by Dr. Wingerter’s recommendation to start early. Six weeks before the procedure, he committed to a targeted exercise regimen to strengthen his knee and improve mobility. Dr. Wingerter also prescribed a ROMTech recumbent bike for home therapy, which tracked his progress and allowed Dr. Wingerter to monitor his rehabilitation journey. Sebus found this step invaluable.
On the day of his surgery at Saint Luke’s Plaza, Sebus met Cynthia Phillips, the nurse who prepped him. Having undergone a knee replacement with Dr. Wingerter herself, Cynthia’s positive experience and comforting spirit immediately put him at ease.
“I can’t say enough about Cynthia,” Sebus said. “She had a joyful, calming presence, and it was clear she believed in Dr. Wingerter’s skill. That meant the world to me.”
Dr. Wingerter’s entire team shared this commitment to patient care. Advanced Practice Provider Olivia Moser thoroughly reviewed the procedure and recovery expectations, providing valuable insights. Kim Carey, Dr. Wingerter’s Physician Care Technologist, was attentive and responsive to his questions.
“It’s clear that everyone on the team takes pride in their work,” Sebus said. “Olivia, Kim, Cynthia—they all made sure I felt confident going into surgery.”
The surgery itself, aided by robotic technology for precision, took just under an hour. Though his post-op steps were initially delayed by an OR schedule shift, Sebus was up and walking the halls by the afternoon.
“By that evening, I was walking 260-foot laps,” he said. Early mobility was part of Dr. Wingerter’s plan, and Sebus was determined to meet it.
Recovery required patience, preparation and perseverance. Sebus followed Dr. Wingerter’s advice closely, including physical therapy and exercises he researched independently.
“One thing that surprised me was how tight everything felt afterward,” he said. His physical therapist emphasized stretching and range-of-motion exercises, working to restore flexibility and strength. “The team didn’t just treat my knee—they looked at my whole well-being.”
Throughout recovery, Sebus relied on his team’s guidance on pain management and routines. Differentiating between pain, soreness and general discomfort helped him navigate his recovery.
“Dr. Wingerter’s advice was to stay ahead of the pain, and the nurses helped me understand when and how to manage it,” Sebus said. This approach empowered him to stay consistent with home exercises and regular use of the ROMTech bike, which, along with icing, became central to his recovery.
His physical therapist, Steve Adams at KC Rehab, offered advice on timing medication 30 minutes before therapy sessions. “That was a game-changer for me,” Sebus said. “I could handle the exercises better and got more out of each session because I wasn’t fighting pain.”
Sebus shares the importance of preparing your home and routine for the healing journey. He moved his bed downstairs and set up an exercise area to make his recovery smoother.
“It’s a mental and physical commitment,” he explained, “but it’s worth every bit of effort. My wife and I can go to our grandkids’ games, walk through the airport or even enjoy a night out without the planning and pain that used to come with it.”
Nine weeks post-op, Sebus felt ready for his second knee replacement, confident in Dr. Wingerter’s capable hands. The journey, he emphasizes, has been one of teamwork, determination and gratitude.
Reflecting on his recovery, he shared, “I got back to my life not just because of the surgery, but because of the support, guidance and amazing people who kept me on track.” His wife Pam, by his side at every stage, played a crucial role, complementing the dedication of his medical team.
Dr. Wingerter’s approach, combined with the compassionate care of the KCOA team, empowered Sebus to reach his recovery goals and set new ones, such as biking and staying active. His journey with KCOA has inspired him to encourage others to stay focused on the goal and remember that, with the right support, the results are well worth the process.
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