Surgical Chair 900
Inspired by Ophthalmic Surgeons
“As an ophthalmologist, there’s nothing more important than ergonomics, especially if you develop neck and spine disease. I’ve been proactive on this approach for more than twenty years. By improving ergonomics in your practice, you do a better job and your patients benefit from better care.”
The Surgical Chair 900 was developed in partnership with Reliance Medical Products, and Michael E. Snyder, M.D. and Anup K. Khatana, M.D., of the Cincinnati Eye Institute. With unique insights into the daily ergonomic issues common to ophthalmologists, the surgical chair helps to maximize comfort and prolong the careers of surgeons. The curved backrest aligns the spine for added lumbar support, and the armless design and narrow seat back allow for freedom of movement while reducing risk of contamination.
This design is part of an on-going development effort, marking the start of a new era that holistically considers the physician’s long term comfort and health.
Continue reading below to learn more about the design considerations behind the Surgical Chair 900.
Client
Haag-Streit USA
Services
Industrial Design
Engineering
Prototyping
Beta Run Manufacturing
Life Cycle Testing
Design for Manufacturing
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Click here to learn more about the Surgical Chair 900 on the Haag-Streit website.
The Vision
A New Surgical Chair that Prioritizes Ergonomics
◄ Posture
The design addresses the 'Surgical Slump' by encouraging a straighter neck and back. Historically, doctors would bring themselves to the patient and reach with their necks and backs to see through the microscope. This led to chronic musculoskeletal disorders requiring therapy, surgery, and even early retirement.
The Surgical Chair 900 is a key part of the solution to this problem. The patient and microscope are now brought to the doctor so that they can sit in a preferred position with proper back and lumbar support.
◄ Seat Design
The narrow seat back allows for full range of motion for the surgeon’s arms, while sculpted cushions with minimal seams and crevices allows for easier cleaning. Effective lumbar support has been included in the seat back and the waterfall edge on the seat relieves pressure on the sciatic nerve.
◄ Base Design
The single-piece housing of the base provides smooth surfaces for thorough cleaning. Stability is achieved through a caster lock that locks both back wheels on the chair. Thoughtfully placed height adjustment pedals are conveniently located without taking up foot space.
◄ Adjustability
A simple lift and latch mechanism on the seat back allows for the user to make adjustments while seated. The seat depth is also adjustable— the user can unlock, slide, and lock their seat back into place to get the precise depth they need. The hydraulic lifting column silently and smoothly raises and lowers the seat, and the foot pedals allow the surgeon to do this without taking their hands or eyes off of their task.
Seat height, backrest depth and backrest height adjustments are numbered for easy repeatability.
Testimonials & Awards
“Having a chair that supports the best ergonomics of the back, I can’t even guess how many years it might add to a surgeon’s career.”
“This is really comfortable, surprisingly comfortable, something I didn’t know I was missing.”
