Just months after offering a sneak peek of its new METIS ophthalmic microscope system, Haag-Streit officially announced the U.S. launch of the METIS 900 this week.
First: Haag-Streit.
Headquartered in Switzerland, the medical device manufacturer specializes in four therapeutic areas—including ophthalmology.
Its U.S. branch (Haag-Streit USA) is based in Ohio and develops such notable medical devices as:
- BQ900
- Eyestar 900
- Octopus 900
- Lenstar Myopia
- Imaging Module
And looking specifically at the METIS …
The METIS ophthalmic microscope system is marketed as fusing together advanced optics, clarity, and precision with ergonomics and efficiency during ophthalmic surgeries.
Among its unique features:
Coaxial red reflex: This visualization tool gives control to surgeons with “homogenous red reflex and great contrast, even during low light levels” along with “precision optics” for:
- Clarity
- Reliable color reproduction
- Optimum light transmission
- Large depth-of-field
Zero in on this “control” component for surgeons.
A motorized tilt can be activated via a simple button push to adjust the viewing angle .
Plus: One-handed positioning (with a sterile cover) of the binoculars is designed for a more streamlined and efficient workflow during minimally-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedure—with the intent for no compromise to speed or safety, according to the company.
And where do ergonomics come into play?
Aside from this control component for surgeons, the wireless-controlled microscope (with up to 14 functions) features a compact design to maximize both space and a clinician’s movements in the operating room (OR).
- Specifically: “Surgeons can filter, tilt, focus, and zoom via the programmable hand/or foot switches,” Haag-Streit noted.
And circling back to the aforementioned binoculars: Easily movable, these can be adjusted closer to a clinician to allow them to sit upright with their head above the shoulders—“relieving pressure on your neck, back, and spine.”
And doesn’t this include LED?
Yes! The system also includes light-emitting diode (LED) illumination as its light source.
Why this is important: As Haag-Streit noted, LED emits less heat and consumes significantly less energy than traditional xenon or halogen bulb equivalents (supporting a more eco-friendly operation).
- In fact: LED bulbs are reported to be more cost-effective and last up to 25 times longer than xenon bulbs—and produce a brighter, whiter light.
Let’s talk visualization.
An optional high-definition (HD) 4K video is available via a 27-inch touchscreen monitor for one central point of control.
- In keeping with the ergonomic theme: This monitor is positioned for optimal comfort and efficiency to allow real-time collaboration and easier documentation.
And while we’re on the topic:
- Wide-angle fundus visualization is available via the EIBOS 2 system, a non-contact, wide-angle surgical microscope system enabling surgeons to view both the fundus and incision area at lower magnification levels during ophthalmic surgery.
How does the system support staff training?
The METIS is also equipped with an assistant microscope designed to enable a “collaborative learning environment” for academic centers to teach and train surgeons in training.
Among the benefits of this assistant: Trainees can customize their magnification and “focus independently from the main microscope”—all while promoting autonomous learning.
Nice! Now to accompanying software.
The system utilizes Haag-Streit’s Microscope Imaging & Operating System (MIOS), a recording and documentation software featuring interactive menus to guide OR staff and a user-friendly dashboard.
Via this dashboard—and by using the 4D touchscreen monitor display—clinicians can:
- Create profiles for surgeons and patients
- Record procedures
- Maintain system settings
Can I get a visual of the system?
Check out an up-close look at the METIS 900 in its product manual—including technical specifications.
To note: The company is advising customers to keep an eye out for new advancements and additions (like a 3D heads-up display) to the system in the near future.
And when / where can this be purchased?
Haag-Streit is targeting a Q2 2025 launch in the U.S. market.
In the meantime, click here to request a demo and information on pricing.