Amidst this past weekend’s American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) annual meeting, Haag-Streit USA debuted an expansion to its METIS 900 ophthalmic microscope system: the METIS 3D Digital Heads-Up Module (METIS HU).
This launch followed the company’s debut of two other ophthalmic devices to international commercial markets.
Start with the METIS.
First thing to know: The compactly-designed METIS 900 debuted at last year’s AAO before officially launching in March 2025.
Its purpose: To ergonomically provide advanced optics for clarity and precision during ophthalmic surgeries.
- Check out all its features and functions, which include:
- A coaxial red reflex
- Wireless control (including during glaucoma positioning)
- Assistant telescope
- Integrated 4K video and a 27-inch touchscreen monitor
- Wide-angle fundus visualization
- Microscope Imaging and Operation System (MIOS 6)
- A single user interface with interactive menus to guide the surgical workflow
- Light-emitting diode (LED) illumination
Now to this expansion.
The METIS HU is an integrated digital 3D visualization platform designed to support ophthalmic surgery with detail and clarity.
Among its features and capabilities is an advanced 3D 4K camera technology integration with a 55-inch, 4K monitor that constantly adapts to light conditions to deliver a “greater depth-of-field.”
- The intended effect (per Haag-Streit): Enhanced vision and more accurate manipulation of delicate intraocular structures—as well as an optional red-free filter for enhanced contrast.
And in terms of digital productivity…
Surgeons are equipped with a range of features such as a motorized glaucoma tilt, digital quick zoom function, an integrated image inverter, and image-optimizing filters—all without the need for separate system add-ons.
And as a bonus: Haag-Streit noted that a conversion process enables surgeons to revert to an ocular setup (when required) instead of 3D digital visualization..
Talk design.
Similar to the METIS, the METIS HU is ergonomically designed for long-term surgeries—enabling surgeons to position themselves in an upright position for a clear view of the screen (without excessive head movements).
- The result (ideally) is for reduced back and neck strain, which commonly occurs during standard oculars for lengthy durations of time.
And perhaps more obviously (as the METIS HU name implies) is the replacement of traditional eyepieces with a heads-up view for better visualization, improved workflow, lower illumination, and more advanced surgical teaching opportunities.
- Case in point: Multiple 3D monitors can be linked in a teaching environment to allow for real-time remote observation.
Go on…
Keeping with the ergonomic theme are motorized features activated by a handswitch (in lieu of knobs) and a foot switch that enables wireless control of up to 14 functions.
Even better: Customization options allow mapping of any digital function to the foot or handswitch.
Sounds like a major advantage for surgeons. Is there a visual available of this?
Certainly. Check out the METIS HU product page and scroll down for a look at each of these new components and capabilities.
- Watch this video as well.
And if you’re interested in a more in-depth read on how the METIS HU (and METIS 900) work, click here to view/download their product brochures.
Last question: How can I add this to my practice?
Contact the company for more information on availability and cost (and what to do if you already have the METIS 900 in your practice).