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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

  • Arthroscopy
  • Center for Pediatric Sports Health
  • Fracture Care
  • General Orthopaedics
  • Joint Reconstruction
  • Joint Replacement
  • Knee Arthroscopy
  • Knee Ligament Reconstruction
  • Knee Replacement
  • Knee Surgery
  • 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 Arthroscopic Surgery
  • Shoulder Instability Repairs
  • Shoulder Surgery
  • Sports Medicine
  • Surgical Treatment of Arthritis of the Hip
  • Surgical Treatment of Arthritis of the Knee
View all 24 Treatment & Services +

Specialty in Diseases & Conditions

  • Ankle Instability
  • Arthritis
  • Arthritis of the Knee
  • Hip Pain
  • Knee Injuries
  • Knee Pain
  • Patellofemoral Instability
  • Shoulder Dislocation
  • Shoulder Problems
  • Sports Injuries
View all 10 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
1991

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

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 8/25/2023, Dr. Stearns has reported no financial relationship with industry that is applicable to this listing. 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.

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

790 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
4.7 out of 5
Explains 4.7
Listens 4.4
Courtesy, Respect & Concern 4.7
Patient Rating of Doctor 4.7

104 Patient Comments

Reviewed on Mar 21, 2024

Dr Stearn is the only orthopedic Dr that listened to me Thank you

Reviewed on Mar 19, 2024

Dr Stearns is thorough and efficient

Reviewed on Mar 19, 2024

Dr. Kim Stearns is excellent and I highly recommend him

Reviewed on Mar 19, 2024

This Dr is very difficult to get into see.

Reviewed on Feb 29, 2024

Dr Stearns fixed my Shoulder and the therapy he recommended was perfect.

Reviewed on Feb 28, 2024

Dr. Stearns was excellent

Reviewed on Feb 27, 2024

Dr sterns is a great surgeon. He did both of my knees and the X-rays are wonderful as well as my mobility and pain level..

Reviewed on Feb 20, 2024

Dr. Stearns is very professional. Answered all my questions.

Reviewed on Feb 15, 2024

Doctor didn't explain his findings from MRI only walked in the room told me I needed surgery and left out leaving me with no clear understanding of treatment, options, care of plan.

Reviewed on Feb 14, 2024

I have been a patient of Dr. Stearns for years - 2 surgeries and other treatment. Very skilled surgeon, always had good outcome. He is professional and obviously cares for his patients.

Reviewed on Feb 14, 2024

Dr Sterans is a very good professional caring doctor.

Reviewed on Feb 13, 2024

The doctor seems a bit off Standish. He's a bit "hands off".

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2024

Dr. Stearns was excellent. He was thorough, efficient and respectful. Talked about options and asked for my opinion. Couldn't have asked for better care.

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2024

Dr.Stearns is superb.

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2024

Dr. Sterns is a wonderful doctor. He listens and shows respect for his patience. Very knowledgeable in his professional field.

Reviewed on Feb 8, 2024

Dr Stearns was excellent in everything. I like straight forward brief answers and he was right there with me.

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2024

Dr Kim Stearn and all his staff are outstanding I would highly recommend him to anyone of my family members

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2024

Dr Stearns is a great asset to the Cleveland clinic

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2024

Great doctor

Reviewed on Feb 6, 2024

Provider spent less than 10 minutes with me. He told me what he thought and asked if I had questions. I didn't even know what to ask, nothing was explained. I felt very rushed

Reviewed on Jan 30, 2024

Dr. Stearns is always very attentive during our appointments, He makes sure that I have all my questions answered prior to leaving.

Reviewed on Jan 30, 2024

Very satisfied with experience, both doctor and staff. Thank you!

Reviewed on Jan 25, 2024

I have never been treated so kindly at any other practice. They are the BEST! Dr. Stearns is kind and caring, and the best in the field. Just a super man.

Reviewed on Jan 23, 2024

Dr Stearn took the time to listen to me. He was very thorough looking at my chart and my history. He took the time to explain my options. I was very impressed with him.

Reviewed on Jan 23, 2024

As always Dr Sterns and staff are wonderful

Reviewed on Jan 17, 2024

Dr. Stearns is an amazing clinician with excellent bedside manner. He is friendly, thorough, and patient experience focused.

Reviewed on Jan 9, 2024

Dr. Kim Stearns is a great professional and is a student of his craft!

Reviewed on Jan 9, 2024

I recommend Dr. Kim Stearns to anyone who asks me about hip or knee replacement. He's simply the best.

Reviewed on Jan 4, 2024

Very Encouraging Doctor

Reviewed on Dec 28, 2023

Dr. Kim Stearns is an excellent physician.

Reviewed on Dec 28, 2023

Dr. Stearns gave me an honest and fair assessment of my knee pain

Reviewed on Dec 27, 2023

Love Doctor!

Reviewed on Dec 26, 2023

Dr sterns is not the most personable Doctor, however he is great in his job as a surgeon and that's all that matters to me.

Reviewed on Dec 26, 2023

Always a pleasant experience whenVisiting doctors office

Reviewed on Dec 13, 2023

Dr sterns office has always had great service and kind workers at front desk there courtesy is amazing

Reviewed on Dec 12, 2023

Waiting 1 hr to see the doctor

Reviewed on Dec 5, 2023

Doctor was very straight forward and direct, I liked that about him. He explained options to me.

Reviewed on Nov 30, 2023

I had questions I did not get to ask. Dr. Stearns is a great Dr wish he gave me a chance to ask questions.

Reviewed on Nov 28, 2023

My concerns and questions were answered with care and concerns. The doctor helped me professionally and was very helpful.

Reviewed on Nov 28, 2023

Dr Stearns and his team are amazing. I couldn't ask for more or be more pleased with my results. No question went unanswered. Communication was easy and speedy. Dr Stearns expertise led to an easier speedier recovery. With thanks and gratitude for my knee replacement. So grateful to Dr Stearns and Team for their excellent care.

Reviewed on Nov 22, 2023

I have a very high regard for Dr. Stearns and his staff! Its obvious there is mutual respect among his team. Should I need any additional Orthopaedic hes my go to Dr.

Reviewed on Nov 21, 2023

Dr stearn was nice but really didn't address any concerns I get that I am a patient through workers comp but I didn't feel he gave me real answers

Reviewed on Nov 16, 2023

Dr. Stern is a wonderful person and I enjoyed my interactions with him.

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2023

Nice to have somone be respectful of your time. I was into an exam room 10 mins after my appointment time, staff were nice, doctor was really quick with the injections. We talked about replacements.

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2023

I have recommended Dr. Stearns to many friends.

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2023

Dr. Stern really didn't say what was causing the pain in my knee except the x-ray was normal. Said he would order a cream for the pain

Reviewed on Nov 9, 2023

This is my 3rd joint replacement with Dr Stearns, I will go nowhere else

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023

Great experience. Dr K Sterns is a Gem!!

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023

The most amazing dr EVER!!!

Reviewed on Nov 7, 2023

Dr sterns explained everything very thoroughly I was very happy with him he will be my doctor going forward

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2023

This care giver is a fantastic Dr very caring and knowledgeable.I feel better after he told me everything to get me better

Reviewed on Nov 2, 2023

First impression, Dr.Stearn is so laid back, good listener. Felt at ease being with him,felt comfortable around him. Glad to had meet him. Will continue to see him for my knee pain.

Reviewed on Oct 25, 2023

When making appt, I described my condition in detail & asked to be referred to a dr who had extensive experience w/ my odd injury. Dr. Stearns is strictly a surgeon. Although I brought 4 MRIs w/ reports & a nuclear CT disk, he could not give me any explanation or assessment or any tx other than a hip replacement for which I am in no way a candidate for at this time, acc'ding to images and reports. I didn't answer lat Q b/c I wouldn't rec to anyobe who was not in need of rhip eplacement. We came to CC from B'ham, AL, based on its repotation, but I was misdirected as to whom to see, so money and time not well spent on airfare and hotel, and ubers

Reviewed on Oct 25, 2023

As described on earlier page, I was notmatched with appropriate physician, so I did not receive any care and can't give factually supported answers to these questions.

Reviewed on Oct 24, 2023

Being a year post op, I can honestly say my quality of life with hiking and going to the gym has improved dramatically and drastically having a total left knee replacement done by Dr. Stearns.

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2023

Dr.Stearns was exceptional

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2023

Dr. Stearns was awesome! He answered all my questions thoroughly and put my mind at ease relative to my hip replacement surgery that he performed the following week.

Reviewed on Sep 26, 2023

Both doctor and his male nurse were good people to talk to well educated, answered my question, made me feel good.

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2023

Dr sterns is excellent. He evaluates the X-ray and admitted a shot perfectly.

Reviewed on Sep 14, 2023

I'm very thrilled that a friend recommended Dr. Stearns to me. I feel thoroughly comfortable and trust for the path of the next steps.

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2023

Dr Stern was wonderful He had reviewed my case Made himself familiar with my injury Had a plan of care in mind He listened to my concerns I don't think I have ever had a better experience with an orthopedist in my life and I have seen lots of orthopedic doctors I am very pleased to have Dr Sterns taking care of my knee

Reviewed on Sep 5, 2023

The doctor answered all my questions and was outstanding

Reviewed on Aug 31, 2023

Dr. Stearns is always very kind to me and goes above and beyond making sure I'm feeling my best and works with me closely with any concerns! One of my favorite and BEST doctors as he has greatly helped me!

Reviewed on Aug 30, 2023

Dr Stearns has been extremely helpful in dealing with my knee issues and keeping me active in my sports

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

Dr. Stearns is superb surgeon. I have had both knees replaced with absolutely no complications. As I progressed with my rehab, I have received positive feedback from Dr. Stearns. I cannot recommend him enough.

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

Felt so much better after talking to the doctor

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

Dr. STEARNS is not only the best in his field, he's just the best. I would recommend him to everyone.

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

Everyone in Dr. Stearns office, receptionist, nurses and Dr. Stearns were very professional and extremely knowledgeable explaining everything to me.

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2023

Dr Stearns medically cared for me exceptionally. I have much respect for Dr Stearns. My experience in post op after care in the office has been poor. I would highly recommend Dr. Stearns surgery

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2023

Always Best Care at CC! Dr. Stearns again, is the Best!

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2023

Very good doctor.

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023

I have already recommended Dr. Stearns to two friends approaching surgery.

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2023

Physician appeared to be in a hurry, did not ask for any detailed explanation of my pain and deferred it to Physical therapy staff. I left the appointment feeling like it was a waste of my time.

Reviewed on Aug 16, 2023

It was nice to actually see Dr. Stearn's without a mask! :) We had a good conversation as to my current issues and what I can and cannot do and possibility of some additional treatment. All in all a good visit.

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2023

Very kind knowledgeable doctor. Was able to provide wonderful care.

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2023

Always on time or earlier appointment with Dr. Stearns

Reviewed on Aug 1, 2023

Dr. Stearns took time to address my concerns and aftercare. Professional and caring.

Reviewed on Jul 27, 2023

Dr stearns is the best in his specialty. I trust him with my life and has given me the best care for the diminishing of my pain. Ross Gallucci is the most competent PA, always explaining every detail.

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2023

The lack of care felt from the Dr. Is the reason for this answer

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2023

I had no problems at all with my appointment with Dr. Sterns

Reviewed on Jul 25, 2023

I was instantly put at ease. Dr Stearns was very easy to talk to and listened to both mine and my husband's concerns and made adjustments to treatement plan

Reviewed on Jul 12, 2023

I felt that I was an interruption to the Doctor's time.

Reviewed on Jul 11, 2023

I would recommend Dr Sterns 1000%. Best orthopedic Dr. Very professional, the only guy I would ever trust with my orthopedic concerns. A true professional

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2023

Very pleased with Dr STEARNS and staff. I was treated very well and they showed great concern and care for my current condition.

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2023

Dr STEARNS is excellent in his knowledge, experience and concern for my current condition.

Reviewed on Jun 27, 2023

Dr Stearns listened and answered all of my questions and concerns in a very personable professional manner.

Reviewed on Jun 14, 2023

Highly recommend Dr. Kim Stearns. Excellent doctor and staff. My surgery went very well and my recovery.

Reviewed on May 30, 2023

Dr. Stearns & his nurse were very personable, easy to talk to & very professional.

Reviewed on May 18, 2023

I have already referred Dr. Stearns to a friend and will continue to refer him to others

Reviewed on May 18, 2023

Dr Stearns is very caring & professional

Reviewed on May 18, 2023

Dr Stearns Staff is very Special, great team to have. I Love them.

Reviewed on May 17, 2023

When I first came to Dr. Stearns I knew my hip(s) were BAD and he explained how bad they were and wanted to operate immediately on the left! He was so kind and friendly and courteous and helped me to understand the severity of my situation!

Reviewed on May 16, 2023

Meeting time with the doctor was only 1 minute and 47 seconds.

Reviewed on May 16, 2023

I enjoy seeing the doctor and staffThey provide care and hope thank you

Reviewed on May 9, 2023

Dr Stearn and his staff went above and beyond what I expected. I was treated with respect and concern by a very professional and friendly Dr. And staff.

Reviewed on May 9, 2023

I will definitely be recommending Dr Stearns to family, friends, and acquaintances!

Reviewed on Apr 20, 2023

Doc Stern and his team are awesome. I so glad that I was referred they answered all my questions and made me feel confident concerning my knee replacement surgery. Thanks

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.

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