AZCENTRAL.COM z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z 1SP
Activities, Classes, Events /2
Community of the Month /5
A S P E C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N C R E AT E D B Y R E P U B L I C M E D I A C O N T E N T M A R K E T I N G
December 2017
“Plans are of little importance, but planning is essential.” —Attributed to Winston Churchill
Exploring the lifestyle road ahead ! Story by PAULA HUBBS COHEN
A
ccording to Dictionary.com, a plan, when used as a noun, means a scheme or method of acting, doing, proceeding, making, etc., developed in advance. And as Baby Boomers are finding out, the time comes when we all need to plan ahead as our lifestyle and/or living circumstances change. Indeed, sooner or later, many folks start to look at a Life Plan community or a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). But just what are these types of communities, what amenities do they offer and what services do they provide? Life Plan community
Westminster Village
“Our residents enjoy variety by choosing among our three different dining venues and other amenities found in luxury resorts.” —Leslie Midkiff, Westminster Village
“A Life Plan community is exactly what it sounds like: it is a plan for living for seniors where they can enjoy peace of mind knowing no matter what curve-ball life throws at them, their community has their needs covered in a maintenance-free, engaging lifestyle,” said Cole Marvin, executive director of Friendship Village in Tempe. “Seniors who live in Life Plan communities want to enjoy life with other like-minded individuals who want to be in control of how and where they age.” Marvin explained that Life Plan communities offer independent and assisted living housing options with onsite healthcare services for both short-term and long-term care needs. “These various housing options are combined with a robust offering of activities and programming for seniors to engage in,” he said, adding that services ranging from housekeeping, landscaping and maintenance are also included at Friendship Village.
Continuing Care Retirement Community Meanwhile, Westminster Village in Scottsdale models itself as a Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC. “This model allows residents to move in through independent living and enjoy the services and amenities that a resort offers with home-health services, assisted living and skilled care all onsite for when healthcare needs change,” said Lesley Midkiff, chief marketing officer for Westminster Village. “At Westminster Village, we take away the burden of home-owning by providing a carefree lifestyle where maintenance, housekeeping, laundry and even transportation are provided for our residents.” Midkiff noted that when additional support is needed, residents can begin to have assistance within their apartment as a first step to health services. “When appropriate, assisted living services can provide a quasi-independent lifestyle but with the extra help to spend energy on the things our residents enjoy doing,” she said. “When full-time assistance is needed, a resident would move into our five-star rated nursing center where their needs can be met. This continuum of care is provided as part of Westminster Village’s Life Care Program.” LIFESTYLE, continued on page 6
Tour with us and ask about our move-in specials
Come visit our newly renovated apartments
Senior Living
We offer a complete continuum of care: • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing (CMS 5-Star & HSAG Platinum)
6250 N. 19th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85015 www.palazzohc.com • 602-433-6300
AR-0008713964-04
2SP z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC 2 | InspiredLivingAZ | December 2017
InspiredLivingAZ.com
Calendar
/DECEMBER
Listing of active-adult events and activities at some of the Valley’s premier active-adult communities.*
Mesa Christmas Lights WHEN: 5–10 p.m. daily through Dec. 31, 2017 WHERE: LDS Mesa Arizona Temple, 525 E. Main St., Mesa INFO: MesaChristmasLights.com; 480-964-7164 COST: Free THE SCOOP: This annual Southeast Valley tradition features palm trees wrapped in thousands of lights, a nativity scene and illuminated gardens. Messages can be heard in English and Spanish.
Desert Botanical Garden
Glendale Glitters WHEN: 6–10 p.m. daily through Jan. 6, 2018 WHERE: 58th Ave. and Glendale Ave., Glendale INFO: GlendaleAZ.com/Glitters; 623-930-2299 COST: Free THE SCOOP: Meander through 16 blocks of historic downtown Glendale which has been transformed (for the 21st year!) into a winter wonderland illuminated by 1.5 million lights.
Pompeii: The Exhibition WHEN: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily through May 28, 2018 WHERE: Arizona Science Center, 600 E. Washington St., Phoenix INFO: AZScience.org COST: Varies; tickets available online THE SCOOP: In this blockbuster exhibition, guests become time-travelers transported to the bustling commercial port and strategic military and trading center of Pompeii. The exhibition features more than 200 artifacts on loan from the Naples National Archeological Museum in Italy.
Las Noches de las Luminarias WHEN: Dec. 26–30, 5:30–9:30 p.m. WHERE: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix INFO: DBG.org/Lumin; 480-941-1225 COST: Varies; tickets available online THE SCOOP: Following the Hispanic Christmas tradition, brown bags containing lighted candles line the Garden’s paths, creating a peaceful and romantic glow amid the saguaros and other desert flora.
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ZooLights WHEN: 5:30–10:30 p.m. daily through Jan. 14, 2018 WHERE: The Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix INFO: PhoenixZoo.org/ZooLights; 602-273-1341 COST: Varies; tickets available online THE SCOOP: The Phoenix Zoo has been lit-up with millions of lights and dazzling displays. Some activities are available for an additional fee, including Stingray Bay and more.
barometer of the collector car industry. Highlighted by a treasure trove of exceptional vehicles, this epic event is not just for dealers and high-end collectors; indeed, first-time buyers, families and everyday auto aficionados all enjoy the exuberant atmosphere that features not just the actual auction, but also entertainment, exhibitors and activities for the entire family.
Sip & Shop Sundays WHEN: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 31, 2017 WHERE: DeSoto Central Market, 915 N. Central Ave., Phoenix INFO: DesotoCentralMarket.com THE SCOOP: Start your Sunday morning at 11 a.m. with brunch from one of the many food stalls, then grab a mimosa and stroll through rows of craft vendors during this pop-up market.
Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction WHEN: Jan. 13–21, 2018 WHERE: Westworld of Scottsdale, 16601 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale INFO: Barrett-Jackson.com; 480-421-6694 COST: Varies THE SCOOP: Barrett-Jackson presents its 47th Annual Scottsdale Auction, widely regarded as a
Barrett Jackson Scottsdale Inspired Living AZ usually publishes on the third Sunday of the month and is distributed to more than 300,000 Valley residents as part of The Arizona Republic. Inspired Living AZ focuses on December | Vol. 1, No. 4 all aspects of active-adult living, lifestyle and amenities.
A division of The Arizona Republic, 200 E. Van Buren St., Phoenix, AZ 85004. For general advertising inquiries, contact Republic Media at 602-444-8000.
Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department
Arizona Science Center
Carefree Fine Art and Wine Festival WHEN: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. daily Jan. 19 through Jan. 21, 2018 WHERE: 101 Easy Street, Carefree INFO: thunderbirdartists.com; 480-837-5637 COST: $3 THE SCOOP: This Festival features more than 155 juried fine artisans from across the globe. Artists will display paintings in oil, watercolor and other mediums as well as sculptures, hand-blown class, jewelry and more. The Festival is
also a wine-tasting event. For $10, patrons receive a souvenir wine glass with six tasting tickets. AZ Vegetarian Food Festival WHEN: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Jan. 20 and Jan. 21, 2018 WHERE: 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd, Scottsdale INFO: azvegfoodfest.com COST: Varies THE SCOOP: This Festival showcases and celebrates the plant-based lifestyle with food vendors, exhibitors and speakers.
*Extensive consideration has been made to verify all information, but since it is subject to change, attendees are advised to verify dates, times and prices before attending. Please note that many of the events that require tickets sell-out early, so please check online or by phone to verify ticket availability.
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Relief from Chronic Pain Get back to living. no drugs, no steroid injections and no surgery
If you’re a beginner, Paulat recommends going on guided hikes until you’re comfortable to try it on your own. Park Rangers and volunteer docents can provide guidance and are there as a resource.
Take a hike! Maricopa County is a wonderland of outdoor adventures By PAULA HUBBS COHEN
H
iking is a wonderful way to get out and explore our stunning Sonoran desert surroundings. However, Mother Nature can have some tricks up her proverbial sleeve, meaning it’s important to know how to stay safe in our spectacular outdoors. Here are some tips that will help you do just that, courtesy of Mark Paulat, an interpretative ranger with the Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department. • Do not exceed your limits • Pre-hydrate in advance • Carry more water than you think you will need • Protect yourself from the sun • Hike with a group • Satellite phones are better [than cell phones] • Check the weather forecast • Make a plan and stick to it • Stay on the trail and do not deviate from your course Also: Tell someone where you will be, which trail, when you expect to return and make sure they have your vehicle information including license
The rule of “halves” “When your water is half-gone, your adventure is half-over. If you are not yet half-way, turn around and go back.”
Call Us Today To Schedule Your
FREE CONSULTATION 602-714-8865
MARK PAULAT Interpretative Ranger, Cave Creek Regional Park
plate number. “If the authorities need to search for you, it will be far easier to find you if you are where you are supposed to be,” Paulat said. Paulat noted that many folks who have issues on the trail either don’t recognize their limits or attempt to exceed them. “Many fail to remember that even when temperatures are moderate to cool, it is still a desert and therefore it’s very dry the majority of the time,” he said, pointing out that “everyone needs more water in the desert, regardless of time of year or time of day.”
» More info: All trail maps, including length and difficulty ratings, are posted online at MaricopaCountyParks.net/maps.
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AZCENTRAL.COM z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z 3SP December 2017 | InspiredLivingAZ | 3
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Inspired Dining
Elegant to eclectic Renaissance dining inspires By Pat Whitney hile shopping for an upscale senior community, the grand lobby and grand piano lounge may wow prospective residents, but food quality ranks close to the top on the list of must-haves. Which is why Robson Communities’ world-class Renaissance Luxury Senior Apartments at Sun Lakes has gone to such lengths to satisfy today’s Seniors’ sophisticated palette. One hundred staffers offer their expertise to provide a classy dining experience for an average of 655 residents daily. “Our food and beverage department features a roster of nutritionists, chefs, sous chefs, line cooks, food managers, dining room managers and directors as well as menu planners who work as much as a year in advance on sourcing the ingredients and assuring the quality of meal service,” says Executive Vice President of
W
Renaissance Plaza Bar.
Renaissance Luxury Senior Apartments
Chef-inspired meals are served three times a day in a spectacular dining room, with tall ceilings and cascading lighting, artful geometric room dividers and comfortably stylish seating for diners.
Robson Communities, Inc.’s Steve Soriano. Chefs hold town halls twice a week for Renaissance Luxury resident feedback. Senior Apartments “Our residents told us they wanted GOLD WINNER more variety, not formal dining all the Best of 55+ Housing Award 9508 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, AZ 85248 time,” Soriano says. Renaissance now features several dining rooms, each with a character of Open to the public for lunch Mon.-Sat. its own. There’s a more casual bistro with and Sunday brunch. By reservation only. televisions and a bar. A grand dining room Prices range from $10-$15. For reservations, call 480-883-2000. with white linen service for lunch and
» More info:
dinner features elegant cascading waterfall chandeliers, fresh flowers, and is acoustically-designed with padded tables, walls and ceilings, and carpet to allow conversation without distraction. “The formal dining room is equivalent to any upscale restaurant,” he says. Renaissance serves three meals a day, seven days a week with six signature entrees, and two special dishes and soup specials daily. Chefs gladly prepare special meals for residents with special dietary needs. Menus reflect gluten-free, sugar-free, low-sodium, low cholesterol or vegetarian. Meals are included in residents’ contracts. Adding $1.90 to the cost of each meal has enabled staff to buy higher quality chicken and steak, and premium products. The goal, according to Soriano, is to create a social and exclusive 5-star dining experience. “Come see for yourself. You just might see Mr. Robson, founder of Robson Communities. He eats here regularly and is one tough customer. “We answer to a higher authority.”
Renaissance Belini’s Pub/Bistro.
SCOTTSDALE’S ONLY NOT-FOR-PROFIT CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
Since 1988, Westminster Village has been dedicated to creating an enviable lifestyle for our residents. Come experience for yourself what makes our community so unique. JOIN OUR WAIT LIST TODAY, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Contact Marketing at 480.451.2000 or visit us at www.WestminsterVillageScottsdale.com 12000 N. 90th Street | Scottsdale, AZ 85260 AR-0008714215-04
4SP z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC 4 | InspiredLivingAZ | December 2017
InspiredLivingAZ.com
Inspired Travel
Viva vino, Arizona! Arizona’s wine country some of the best in the country ! By EMILY LOCKWOOD
hose with a passion for wine are often drawn to Napa/Sonoma Valley or the Pacific Northwest. And while these regions have a deserving wine pedigree, they’re not the only players in what is a $60 billion dollar industry in the U.S. Uncork a hearty hello to Arizona Wine Country!
T
Last year, wineries in the Grand Canyon State generated more $3 billion in economic activity. With three major growing regions and two urban centers, Arizona’s wine industry has plenty to offer. “A lot of people don’t know that there is wine in Arizona,” said Brian Predmore, president of Arizona Wine Growers Association and chief operating office of Alcantara Vineyards and Winery in Cottonwood, Ariz. “They are surprised to hear there are vineyards here because of the heat.” The state has a diverse climate with lower elevations consisting of mostly desert conditions with mild winters and very hot summers. Northern Arizona and other areas are at a much higher elevation with noticeably cooler temperatures and mild summers. Between the high, the low, the hot and the cold, wine has found a place here in Arizona. Vineyards find themselves at an altitude range of 3,500 to 5,500 ft. Temperatures can change by 50 degrees between night and day. This allows the vines to produce sugar during the day and rest at night. Located next to Sedona, the Verde Valley region has the perfect climate with its dry weather, warm days and cool nights to produce
DID YOU KNOW… There are 1,060 Farm Winery licenses in Arizona.
File Photo
grapes that deliver the best juice. The area even has its own wine trail with several wineries to stop at along the way. The Sonoita Wine region is located south of Tucson. Moving to the southeastern part of Arizona is the Wilcox region. This region grows about 74 percent of the state’s grapes. Predmore noted that Arizona is an ideal destination for a getaway. Visitors can enjoy the numerous wineries along with taking in the beautiful sites of places like the Grand Canyon and Sedona.
16,660 wine jobs plus 4,694
Average yield: two and one-half
related jobs.
tons per acre
$196.8 million generated in state and local taxes.
In production and development: nearing 1,500 acres of wine grapes.
The majority are small business, owner-operators in rural Arizona.
600,000 visitors to vineyards
The first license was issued in 1983 in Sonoita.
Three primary areas for
Arizona wine industry generates $3.3 billion in total economic activity.
annually. growing grapes: Wilcox, Sonoita-Elgin, Verde Valley.
One ton of wine grapes can produce 178 gallons of juice. A case of wine is 2.3 gallons per 9 liters.
Brian Predmore, president of Arizona Wine Growers Association and chief operating office of Alcantara Vineyards and Winery in Cottonwood, Ariz.
Real Trilogy® Members having a blast after a great day on the links.
Trilogy® is more than a place to live. It’s knowing you’re in the right place, at the right time, with the right people. And for many of our owners, they wonder why they ever put off making the move. Try something unexpected. Know your neighbors. Experience a true sense of community. Be part of something bigger. Once you’re here, you’ll understand why everyone is asking, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
CALL 855.321.9529
New homes in both 55+ and All Ages Communities! VISTANCIA
ENCANTERR A
RIO VERDE
WICKENBURG RANCH
From the $200’s+
From the $200’s+
From the $300’s+
From the $200’s+
Peoria
San Tan Valley
Verde River
Wickenburg
TrilogyLife.com/A Z
Sales: Shea Communities Marketing Company (AZ DRE #CO001121000); Construction: SHALC GC, INC. (AZ ROC# 291056). Trilogy at Vistancia is a community by Vistancia Marketing, LLC. Encanterra is a community by Trilogy Encanterra Marketing, LLC. Trilogy at Vistancia, Trilogy at Encanterra and select neighborhoods at Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch are intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years or older, with certain exceptions for younger persons as provided by law and the governing covenants, conditions and restrictions. Encanterra Resort Community and Trilogy at Wickenburg Ranch and Verde River are for all ages. This is not an offer of real estate for sale, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, to residents of any state or province in which registration and other legal requirements have not been fulfilled. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. A PUBLIC REPORT IS AVAILABLE ON THE STATE REAL ESTATE DEPARTMENT WEBSITE. Trilogy at Verde River: Use of the golf course and club is at the pleasure of the club owner. Golf course is planned to be private. Owners must purchase a separate golf membership from the course owner. Equal Housing Opportunity.
AZCENTRAL.COM z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z 5SP December 2017 | InspiredLivingAZ | 5
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Community of the Month:
NE
Vi at Silverstone By EMILY LOCKWOOD at Silverstone is a continuing care community located in Scottsdale. This 165-acre community has plenty to offer with its award-winning service, upscale amenities, stylish décor and impressive landscapes. The community offers several floor plans that range from one to two bedrooms. All units include basic utilities with individual climate control, expanded digital cable TV, an emergency call system, spacious closets, a patio or balcony, large bathrooms with special safety features, a washer and dryer, a kitchen with granite countertops and custom carpet and paint colors to make the place your own. Residents of Vi at Silverstone get to live in luxury. Every unit receives weekly housekeeping and laundering of linens and towels. There is 24-hour valet parking services in the garage. There are countless onsite amenities for residents to enjoy. The onsite wellness center is staffed Monday through Friday with licensed nurses who are available for confidential health consultations and routine health screenings. There is also a library stocked with current magazines, best-selling books and audiobooks. Residents get to reap all of the benefits of the community’s location. The Phoenix Symphony, the Arizona Theatre and Opera Company and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art are all close by.
Vi
DETAILS PRICES: Starting at $237,400, plus monthly fees ADDRESS: 23005 North 74th St., Scottsdale, 85255 DIRECTIONS: North of Phoenix in Scottsdale, at the southeast corner of Pinnacle Peak and Scottsdale roads PHONE: 888-991-4625 WEBSITE: Scottsdale.viliving.com
Today, 55-plus is whatever you make it. Here’s to making it your own. Kick back and relax with family and friends and your favorite activities. Or blaze new paths through community service and renewed interests. However you define retirement, we say, “go for it.” We’ll help you achieve it with affordable, energy-efficient homes in amenitypacked neighborhoods. Tour today; homes from the low $200s.
MISSION ROYALE casa grande
PROVINCE
maricopa
meritagehomes.com/activeadult
1- 877-291- 8747
Home, features, and community information are subject to change, and homes to prior sale, at any time without notice or obligation. Additionally, deviations and variations may exist in any constructed home, including, without limitation: (i) substitution of materials and equipment of substantially equal or better quality; (ii) minor style, lot orientation, and color changes; (iii) minor variances in square footage and in room and space dimensions, and in window, door, utility outlet, and other improvement locations; (iv) changes as may be required by any state, federal, county, or local government authority in order to accommodate requested selections and/or options; and (v) value engineering and field changes. Pictures and other promotional materials are representative and may depict or contain floorplans, square footages, elevations, options, upgrades, decorations, window treatments (such as shutters, drapes, etc.), landscaping, pool, spa, furnishings, appliances, and other design/decorator features and amenities that are not included as part of the home and/or may not be available in all communities. All square footages are approximate. ©2017 Meritage Homes Corp. All Rights Reserved. AZ ROC Lic #B-166223 AR-0008743497-01
6SP z SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2017 z THE ARIZONA REPUBLIC 6 | InspiredLivingAZ | December 2017
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Keys to enjoying a worry-free lifestyle care-level settings with minimal disruption to an otherwise normal life,” he said. “This also allows spouses to function as a spouse and not a caregiver. In addition, residents are able to maintain healthy friendships despite their care needs given the proximity of the various care settings on our campus.” Midkiff believes that peace of mind is the primary reason people move to CCRCs. “Knowing that healthcare is a few steps from your front door and having a support system in place of new friends and neighbors is very beneficial,” she said. “Also, for some seniors living alone, the thought of belonging to a community is psychologically beneficial.”
LIFESTYLE, continued from cover
Living options, lifestyle services, amenities As expected, different organizations offer different living options as well as different levels of services and amenities. Some offer apartment-style living, some offer casita options, while pretty much all feature a variety of healthcare and dining options as well as activity and entertainment programs. Along with independent living, as a Life Care community, Friendship —COLE MARVIN, Village ensures acFriendship Village cess to assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care services. What’s more, Marvin said that their 50-acre campus allows people to spread out and “not feel too confined as one may feel in a highrise type setting. Our campus also allows us to offer a combination of garden-style patio homes and apartment homes to suit individual preferences.” “We are in the process of finishing six new casitas in addition to six new ones built in 2016,” Marvin added. “Our campus underwent a major repositioning project that concluded in 2007 and added a new 84-unit apartment building.” In addition, Friendship Village is in the process of a master-planning endeavor that would include the replacement of existing apartments. From an amenity perspective, Friendship Village’s campus includes four restaurants, a cocktail lounge, sports bar, heated pool, fitness center, movie theatre, auditorium, libraries, a bank branch and a beauty shop. There’s also a recreation center featuring activities such as a wood shop, lapidary, kiln and art studio. Meanwhile, Westminster Village prides itself on providing a “seamless continuum of support services” offering a variety of programs and services designed to help residents stay as independent as possible.
“We currently have more than 20 second-generation residents at Friendship Village, meaning their mothers and fathers once lived here.” Friendship Village Tempe
When is the right time?
Friendship Village residents walking their dogs.
Questions to ask, info to understand: • What are the staff turnover percentages?
• What is the stability of ownership, management and staff?
• Describe the community’s leadership and continuity.
• What are the ratings in the licensed healthcare settings?
• Explore recent resident satisfaction survey information.
• What happens to me if I run out of money?
“These should be done every two years and should be 90 percent or better. Our most recent was 93 percent overall satisfied.” Cole Marvin, Friendship Village
“Westminster Village is a not-for-profit. Our charitable purpose is to provide financial support for residents should they outlive their means.” Leslie Midkiff, Westminster Village
Services include an onsite Wellness Center and home health services for residents requiring assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming and other daily activities. The Assisted Living Center features 23 apartments, while the 60-bed Skilled Nursing Center is supervised by registered nurses 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Sixteen of the Skilled Nursing Center beds are designated as a Special Care Unit designed to provide a safe, secure environment for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Midkiff said that “among other ame-
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nities typically found in luxury resorts, our most popular amenities are customizable apartments, three distinct dining venues, in-apartment dining, fitness and wellness programs, lectures, art programs, socials, and of course, happy hours.”
Lifestyle benefits According to Marvin, the biggest benefit of this type of living arrangement is normal-as-possible, worry-free living. For example: “Many times, couples do not age in the same way and you can have two residents residing in two different
When asked at what point people should start thinking about the possible need for this type of living arrangement, Marvin said that they are seeing people making the decision sooner rather than later, with the average age of entry moving down below 80. “Our youngest resident is 62 with several others coming in in their late 60s and early 70s. We don’t think you can start planning too soon,” he said. Midkiff noted that because Westminster Village has a wait-list of up to two years, people who plan on moving into a CCRC (where entry is typically through independent living apartments) should begin researching communities before a health event happens. “Ideally, selecting a community should be the decision of the incoming residents, not necessarily that of the children or a power of attorney,” she said.
» More info Friendship Village Tempe 2645 E. Southern Ave., Tempe 85282 FriendshipVillageAZ.com 480-831-5000 Westminster Village Scottsdale 12000 N. 90th St., Scottsdale 85260 wmvaz.com 480-451-2000
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Robotic technology improves knee replacement surgery BY BRIAN SODOMA
FOR BANNER CORE CENTER FOR ORTHOPEDICS
Additionally, pain management after surgery has greatly improved. Comprehensive pain control plans today include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, local anesthesia that is applied to the soft tissue prior to closure of the site, and nerve blocks that allow for a corticosteroid pain medicine to be injected into or near nerve areas in the knee while under anesthesia. All of these elements combined allow for much better pain control after the operation.
Robots aren’t taking over Dr. Omar Hadi’s work, but they sure are providing a helping hand. Dr. Hadi, a Banner CORE Center for Orthopedics hip and knee replacement surgeon at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West/Surprise, Ariz., says Stryker’s Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery technology has improved patient outcomes for partial knee surgeries in the past two years. Now, the technology is available for full knee replacements too.
“Timelines for full recovery have shortened greatly in the past decade too,” Dr. Hadi said.
Robotics in orthopedic surgery “Interestingly, the use of robotic technology is relatively new to orthopedic surgery, having only come into the field in the last couple years,” Dr. Hadi said. With the robotic-assisted system, a surgeon inside the operating room guides the robotic arm. However, its movement is limited to a specific, pre-determined surgical area, ensuring that only the diseased bone is removed for the implant, leaving the healthy bone and tissue surrounding it untouched, and increasing the likelihood of an accurate knee placement. “[The technology] gives very detailed anatomical information to the robotic arm. It allows for very precise cutting or burring of the bone,” Dr. Hadi explained. With the Mako system, first, a CT scan is taken, then its software creates a chart that allows a surgeon to gain an understanding of how “tight” or “loose” the patient’s knee AR-0008737666-01
Mako can be used for partial knee replacement (PKR), which is a procedure designed to relieve the pain caused by joint degeneration due to osteoarthritis (OA) in one or two compartments of the knee.
is. The surgeon moves the leg around so the software can gauge the knee’s tension in various positions. This helps the surgeon find the best position for the knee implant. It’s a scenario where every millimeter matters. If the new knee is not placed in the exact spot needed, longevity and performance of the implant can be impacted.
amount of tension throughout the range of motion,” he added. “We know exactly what our tension is going to be at the end of the surgery before we even start.” Better outcomes, less time “In the past decade, knee surgery has improved in other ways as well,” said Dr. Hadi, noting the
Omar Abdul-Hadi, MD is a board certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in primary and revision joint replacement surgery of the hip and knee.
The rehabilitation process, he said, has also improved and now brings a greater emphasis on the patient using the knee as quickly as pos-
“[The technology] gives very detailed anatomical information to the robotic arm. It allows for very precise cutting or burring of the bone...” - Omar Abdul-Hadi, MD, Banner CORE Center for Orthopedics hip and knee replacement surgeon at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West/Surprise, Ariz
“There is less disruption of the soft tissue in the knee and we are able to make sure we have an equal
fact that knee replacements are now less invasive and require smaller incisions.
sible. Regardless of whether it’s a full or partial knee replacement, patients are required to walk on the day of surgery.
For partial replacements, the patient goes home the same day of surgery and usually experiences full recovery within six weeks. Full knee replacements only require a one-night stay in the hospital and full recovery is commonly seen within eight weeks. Only a decade earlier, a full knee replacement required a three- or four-night hospital stay and a partial knee replacement needed a one- or two-night stay. Each procedure often needed several months of rehabilitation before resuming full activity. “It’s not just one single factor, it’s all those things combined,” Dr. Hadi said. “We definitely have come a long way.” To find an Orthopedic Doctor near you, call 602.346.9827 or visit www.bannercorecenter.com/ patients