Harold E. Kleinert, M.D., started a hand surgery clinic in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1953. Joined by Joseph E. Kutz, M.D., in 1964, they formed the organization now known as Kleinert Kutz Hand Care Center. Over fourteen physicians of the Hand Care Center, international authorities in their fields, are teaching the next generation of hand surgeons. A number of the world's first, such as the first reported repair of digital arteries and first bilateral arm and forearm replantations, have been performed at this center. Hand surgeons from the Hand Care Center also performed the United States' first hand transplant.

Named in honor of Dr. Kleinert's mother, the Christine M. Kleinert Institute for Hand and Microsurgery grew out of the collaboration among the physicians of Kleinert Kutz Hand Care Center. It is known worldwide for research and education in upper extremity care and microsurgery.

For more information regarding the Christine M. Kleinert Institute, please visit http://www.cmki.org.