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Department Orthopaedic Surgery
Primary Location Lutheran Hospital
Type of Doctor Both Adults and Children & Adolescents
Languages English
Surgeon Yes
Locations
Lutheran Hospital
Primary Location

Lutheran Hospital

Appointment:
216.363.2222
Desk:
216.363.5772
Fax:
216.771.5873
Specialties & Treatments

Treatment & Services

  • Arthritic Knee Conditions
  • Arthroplasty
  • Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
  • Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery
  • Arthroscopy
  • Center for Pediatric Sports Health
  • General Orthopaedics
  • Joint Reconstruction
  • Joint Replacement Of The Knee
  • Knee Surgery
  • Ligament Reconstruction Of The Knee
  • Minimally Invasive Surgery
  • Orthopaedic Surgery
  • Orthopaedics
  • Partial Knee Replacement
  • Robotic Assisted Hip Replacement
  • Robotic Assisted Knee Replacement
  • Robotic Assisted Partial Knee Replacement
  • Rotator Cuff Repair
  • Shoulder Instability Repairs
  • Shoulder Surgery
  • Sports Medicine
  • Surgical Treatment Of Arthritis Of The Hips And Knees
View all 23 Treatment & Services +

Specialty in Diseases & Conditions

  • Ankle Instability
  • Arthritis
  • Arthritis Of The Knee
  • Fractures
  • Hip Pain
  • Knee Injuries
  • Knee Pain
  • Patellofemoral Instability
  • Shoulder Dislocation
  • Shoulder Problems
  • Sports Injuries
View all 11 Specialties +
Insurance

Insurance

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Biography

About Kim L. Stearns, MD

Kim L. Stearns M.D. is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon. He specializes in Sports Medicine and Adult Reconstruction. Dr. Stearns is a 1985 graduate of Northeast Ohio Medical University. He has been employed by the Cleveland Clinic since 2006. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Stearns is a Team Orthopedic Surgeon for the Cleveland Indians and Head Team Physician for the Lake County Captains. He is a consultant for the World Wrestling Entertainment, Cleveland Playhouse, Live Nation Entertainment and the Rockettes. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Anatomy at Northeast Ohio Medical University as well as an Assistant Professor of Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine.

Education & Professional Highlights

Education & Professional Highlights

Appointed
2010

Education & Fellowships

Fellowship - University of California San Diego Medical Center
Adult Reconstructive Surgery/Hip Replacement
San Diego, CA USA
1991

Residency - St. Vincent Charity Hospital
Orthopaedic Surgery
Cleveland, OH USA
1990

Residency - Cleveland Clinic
Orthopaedic Surgery
Cleveland, OH USA
1990

Internship - Cleveland Clinic
General Surgery
Cleveland, OH USA
1986

Medical Education - Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine
MD
Rootstown, OH USA
1985

Certifications

  • Orthopaedic Surgery

Specialty Interests

Joint Replacement of the hip and knee, reconstructive surgery of the knee, arthroscopic surgery of the knee and shoulder; sports medicine

Research & Publications

Research & Publications

See publications for Kim L. Stearns, MD.

(Disclaimer: This search is powered by PubMed, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. PubMed is a third-party website with no affiliation with Cleveland Clinic.)

Industry Relationships

Industry Relationships

Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists may collaborate with the pharmaceutical or medical device industries to help develop medical breakthroughs or provide medical expertise or education. Cleveland Clinic strives to make scientific advances that will benefit patient care and support outside relationships that promise public benefit. In order for the discoveries of Cleveland Clinic physicians' and scientists' laboratories and investigations to benefit the public, these discoveries must be commercialized in partnership with industry. As experts in their fields, Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists are often sought after by industry to consult, provide expertise and education.

To assure professional and commercial integrity in such matters, Cleveland Clinic maintains a program that reviews these collaborations and, when appropriate, puts measures in place to minimize bias that may result from ties to industry. Cleveland Clinic publicly discloses the names of companies when (i) its physicians/scientists receive $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) for speaking and consulting, (ii) its physicians/scientists serve as a fiduciary, (iii) its physicians/scientists receive or have the right to receive royalties or (iv) its physicians/ scientists hold any equity interest for the physician's/scientist's role as inventor, discoverer, developer, founder or consultant.* In publicly disclosing this information, Cleveland Clinic tries to provide information as accurately as possible about its physicians' and scientists' connections with industry.

As of 4/23/2023, Dr. Stearns has reported the financial relationships with the companies listed below. In general, patients should feel free to contact their doctor about any of the relationships and how the relationships are overseen by Cleveland Clinic. To learn more about Cleveland Clinic's policies on collaborations with industry and innovation management, go to our Integrity in Innovation page.

Consulting and/or Speaking. Dr. Stearns receives fees of $5,000 or more per year (or, in rare cases, equity or stock options) as a paid consultant, speaker or as a member of an advisory committee for the following companies:

  • Cardinal Health, Inc.

Public Health Service-Reportable Financial Conflicts of Interest. Cleveland Clinic scientists and physicians engage in basic, translational and clinical research activities, working to solve health problems, enhance patient care and improve quality of life for patients. Interactions with industry are essential to bringing the researchers' discoveries to the public, but can present the potential for conflicts of interest related to their research activities. Click here to view a listing of instances where Cleveland Clinic has identified a Public Health Service (PHS)-Reportable Financial Conflict of Interest and has put measures in place to ensure that, to the extent possible, the design, conduct and reporting of the research is free from bias.

* Cleveland Clinic physicians and scientists subscribe to the guidance presented in the PhRMA Code on Interactions with Healthcare Professionals and the AdvaMed Code of Ethics on Interactions with Health Care Professionals. As such, gifts of substantial value are generally prohibited.

Patient Satisfaction Reviews

618 Patient Satisfaction Reviews

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our nationally-recognized Press Ganey Patient Satisfaction Survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Responses are measured on a scale of 1 to 5 with 5 being the best score.

The comments are submitted by patients and reflect their views and opinions. The comments are not endorsed by and do not necessarily reflect the views of Cleveland Clinic.

Overall Star Ratings
4.6 out of 5
Explains 4.6
Listens 4.6
Courtesy, Respect & Concern 4.7
Patient Rating of Doctor 4.6

86 Patient Comments

Reviewed on Apr 18, 2023

Dr.Sterns is a fantastic Orthopedic doctor. I'm glad that my Spine doctor referred me to him. He is also a great surgeon. He explains the procedure that he will be doing. Great Doctor!

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023

All my questions about the procedure were answered concisely and with enough detail for a lay person to understand. Dr Stearns was supportive of my progress so far in the use of my new knee. And offered to provide a salve which he thought would help me extend my range of motion.

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023

Dr. Stearns is an awesome surgeon!

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023

Dr.Stearns is awesome

Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023

Would highly recommend Dr Kim Stearns!

Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023

I felt heard and that Dr Stearns cared about my problem, me as a person, and getting to a tx plan that met me where I was at. I am healing. So it's working.

Reviewed on Apr 6, 2023

Dr.Stearns explained everything and took the time to answer my questions. Mary is the best. The office staff is very courteous. Many Thanks to Dr.Stearns and Dr. Hoban for giving me back my livelihood. Recommend them to anyone.

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

Dr.Stearns has replaced both my knees.

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

Dr did not talk to me about why I was having pain , discuss the x-ray, offer a diagnosis. Very terrible bedside manner. It is a shame because I feel he is a great surgeon. Very disappointed.

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

I have already recommended Dr. Stearns to friends of mine

Reviewed on Mar 28, 2023

I am very happy with the care and respect given by my doctor and his team.

Reviewed on Mar 21, 2023

Dr Sterns is the first Dr to try to help me with my knee problems! He was good to me and has a great bed side manner

Reviewed on Mar 21, 2023

I would definitely recommend Dr. Stearns to anyone

Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023

My experience with my visit was very pleasant and I would refer anyone to this doctor if he or she needs any knee or hip replacement

Reviewed on Mar 7, 2023

Dr. Stearns is always very kind, courteous, and seems to genuinely care about how I am feeling and what he can do to help.

Reviewed on Mar 2, 2023

Dr. Kim Stearns is very professional & very precise in what he says & what he does as a physician. He has performed (4) major surgeries on me now over the last 21.5 yrs. I wouldn't let any other doctor attempt to do the same exact practices on me that he has. All his operations were accurately achieved & very successful. Dr. Stearns has an outstanding mind & never forgets to do anything medically that needs done or completed to the finish. One strong point to Dr. Stearns character is he knows how to treat his patients in a humane manner.

Reviewed on Mar 2, 2023

Dr seemed rushed. He didn't show me x-rays. He just asked if I felt I could trust him because he has done a family member's replacements. As far as treatment, he went into I needed a replacement and that should make most pain go away.

Reviewed on Feb 16, 2023

The Dr. Was busy. That was clear.

Reviewed on Feb 15, 2023

Dr Kim Sterns showed a great deal of knowledge and professionalism throughout my visit. He seems like he genuinely cares for his patients

Reviewed on Feb 14, 2023

Love Dr. Sterns.

Reviewed on Feb 14, 2023

Dr Sterns did not share X-ray results, did not explain how treatment related to the problem, did not disclose what to expect from treatment. I felt so rushed, I had no time to process. He clearly decided my treatment before he saw me. He did not read my chart and did not know my allergies.

Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023

Dr. Stearns is a terrific surgeonafter knee replacement, haven't had any mobility issues, I'm on the exercise bike, treadmill, it's wonderful to exercise with no pain. A blessing I found him.

Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023

I know he's very busy, wish I had time for a few questions. Great Dr though. Would highly recommend!

Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023

A few people have complained to me about problems with the surgery they had from other doctors and I tell them to go to Stearns and a few of them did go to Stearns and he fix their problem and when he did the two surgeries on me I've never had a problem at all he's very good at what he does

Reviewed on Feb 9, 2023

I tell anyone that is thinking about going to have the doctor look at them to go to Dr. Stearns for a second opinion

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2023

Dr. Stearns was excellent start to finish in explaining exactly what my issue was and how to resolve it. Very detailed and thorough! Would definitely recommend!

Reviewed on Feb 2, 2023

Dr. Stearns was very precise in every step leading up to the surgery and afterwards. He was very helpful.

Reviewed on Jan 31, 2023

Dr. Stearns was great. He answered all of my questions and gave complete answers. I am very comfortable with him and ready for my surgery.

Reviewed on Jan 24, 2023

Nice staff and the doctor was very informative.

Reviewed on Jan 24, 2023

Informative Doctor. Explained choices of treatment

Reviewed on Jan 19, 2023

DR.Stearns is professional and corteous.

Reviewed on Jan 19, 2023

It was a wonderful experience meeting with Dr. Sterms, I left feeling comfortable for my future decision.

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2023

The hospital was not acceptable to me. But Dr Stearns and his staff were excellent. I would have to explain if another person asked me about my experience at the hospital he does his surgeries at.

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2023

Dr Stern is very professional, direct and to the point which is much appreciated. I am thankful I found Dr Stern and his team.

Reviewed on Jan 12, 2023

Dr Stearns is incredible.

Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023

Dr. Stearns is not a people person. He is in and out of the office visit room relying heavily on his amazing nursing staff to provide warmth, empathy, compassion and time answering questions. He is a great surgeon. He fits the stereotype of not having any people skills / bedside manner. He comes across distant, aloof and detached.

Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023

Great Dr and surgeon. Personable and efficient

Reviewed on Jan 3, 2023

I would definitely recommend Dr Stearns to others. He's a great Dr

Reviewed on Jan 3, 2023

Dr. Stearns provides excellence in service; it is always a positive, encouraging experience. Not only is he a masterful surgeon, but his follow up checkups are informative.

Reviewed on Dec 29, 2022

He is a very skilled surgeon. My progress is very good, my pain levels very tolerable. He was very quick, saw me In less than 5 minutes, after waiting an hour each time. I did see one other surgeon on a follow-up visit who was more thorough; she showed me my before and after x-rays and gave me some advice, all in less than ten minutes.

Reviewed on Dec 28, 2022

Dr Stearn was very kind and attentive.

Reviewed on Dec 27, 2022

Dr was very cold and acted like he really didn't care. Said he would be right back but didn't come back

Reviewed on Dec 27, 2022

Huge difference at this appointment. Doctor was pleasant and very nice. Was not this way at previous appointment.

Reviewed on Nov 22, 2022

Dr. Stearns is professional and competent why I have had 5 surgeries from him

Reviewed on Nov 22, 2022

My surgery went well, but during the 3 visits I've had with Dr. Stearns it is clear that he wants to cut our time together as short as possible. I'm guessing that he might have some behavioral issue with personal interaction, but he could certainly go through the motions of taking the time to converse and show interest. But as I said, his surgery skills appear to be excellent so I'm very thankful for that!

Reviewed on Nov 3, 2022

Dr Stearns was outstanding!

Reviewed on Nov 3, 2022

Just seen Dr stern Very kindListens

Reviewed on Oct 25, 2022

Dr. Stearns is straight forward but I feel he listened to my concerns and we are working on a solution. 1st in a long time I feel I may just get better

Reviewed on Oct 20, 2022

Dr Stearns and his clinical staff are very nice and knowedgeable.

Reviewed on Oct 13, 2022

Dr only spent ten minutes with me

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2022

Dr. Sterns & his staff are amazing my wife really loved the fact they were so caring & attentive

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2022

I have to wait months to se Dr. Stearns.

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2022

I cannot say enough about Dr Kim Stearns and his team at his office, the OR at Lutheran and recovery. Everything about my procedure from the first X-ray, MRI to the explanations of everything the team would be doing was just amazing. Although I am rating everything as Very Good, it does not begin to describe the total experience with Dr Stearns and EVERY person on his team. I am still just so thankful for each one of them.

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2022

This was my first visit with Dr. Stearns and made me feel very comfortable and build confidents in me wanting him to be my orthopedic dr.

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2022

Dr. Stearns is the best ! I highly recommend him to everyone I know with joint issues. Pain management was awesome !

Reviewed on Sep 13, 2022

Dr.Stearns really cares about you

Reviewed on Sep 1, 2022

As a patient, I felt Dr. Stearns didn't have enough time to fully explain the issues causing a revision of my knee replacements.

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022

Dr Stearns was very straight forward about my physical ailment & that was appreciated.

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022

Outstanding experience with this physician! Simply exceptional!

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022

Everything is seamless with this physician and his staff. Outstanding communication!

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022

Awesome doctor. Very comfortable shared and explained my issues very well. Great visit.

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2022

Dr Stearns was very polite, but I felt that he was rushing me, and didn't take time to even sit while we discussed my post op care. He was kind and gentle as he observed my hip incision.I'm very concerned about my very low CBC levels. When I told him this, he wasn't concerned, and told me to contact my primary doctor. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to express my feelings.

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2022

I have referred several friends to Dr Stearns

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2022

I have recommended Dr. Stearns to many people personally and on social media. My sister will be having total hip surgery Oct 10 by Dr. Stearns. I think he's great!

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2022

Dr. Stearns and staff were very respectful and considerate. Time taken for questions and concerns were addressed patiently and respectfully. Highly recommend.

Reviewed on Aug 18, 2022

Dr. Stearns has amazing bedside manner, is thorough in explaining everything, and has the patient's comfort level at front of mind. Would recommend him to anyone with orthopedic concerns or needs.

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2022

I love *Dr. Stearns! However, he is not a hand holding surgeon. He does a great job as a surgeon. I had my hip replaced with fantastic results. My husband since had both knees replaced as did my best friend. Shortly my sister is having a hip replaced. All by *Dr. Stearns. Absolutely the BEST surgeon.

Reviewed on Aug 4, 2022

Everyone is kind and attentive Dr Stearns is helpful, skillful and has a good "bedside manner"His injection technique is the bestNo more painAntje

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2022

I already recommended 2 friends to Dr. Stearns

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2022

I feel Dr. Kim Stearns is the best of the best! My knee replacement has gone very well and I can't thank Dr. Stearns and his staff enough for there care!

Reviewed on Jul 26, 2022

Would highly recommend Dr. Kim Stearns.

Reviewed on Jul 14, 2022

Dr. Stearns may be "THE GREATEST SURGEON IN THE WORLD". I was expecting the surgery and recovery to be very difficult (Hip Replacement Surgery). Instead, the surgery was "a piece of cake"! I was walking 2 hours after my surgery. I had little pain. I was discharged in 24 hrs. My rehab went so smoothly, I was back to work in two weeks! I have had no problems whatsoever. He's a miracle worker! Nice guy too!

Reviewed on Jul 7, 2022

I love doctor Stern's very caring doctor

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2022

Dr. Stearns is outstanding. I was kept informed every step of the way AND I was able to dance at my daughters wedding after he replaced my hip.

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2022

I would recommend Dr. Stearns and his staff to anyone who asks.

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2022

My experience was great and my doctor awesome ..

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2022

Dr Sterns and the secretary Kim was very helpful and Dr Sterns did a good job on my surgery and I would recommend him to anyone that needs a knee replacement

Reviewed on Jun 28, 2022

I would refer anyone that needs a knee replacement Dr Sterns is a good doctor

Reviewed on Jun 21, 2022

Dr. Stearns is an excellent physician.

Reviewed on Jun 16, 2022

Couldn't ask for a better doctor

Reviewed on Jun 2, 2022

Dr. Stearns was attentive to my concerns and thorough with his explanations. He checked up on me the morning after surgery as did his team. I appreciated that care very much.

Reviewed on May 31, 2022

Dr. Stearns is very compassionate, knowledgeable, and professional.

Reviewed on May 19, 2022

Dr. Stearns is a top notched doctor.

Reviewed on May 19, 2022

Dr. Stearns is a very skilled, caring, thorough, no bs, surgeon. This will be my 2 joint replacement with Dr. Stearns...I would not even consider a different surgeon.

Reviewed on May 19, 2022

My interactions with Dr. Stearns and staff are always a positive experience.

Reviewed on May 18, 2022

Dr. Stearns really listened to my health issues and addressed them. He is so genuine.

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