Finland's first Metro CaseVue® installation improves sterile instrument transport and ergonomics.
Helsinki University Hospital (HUS), one of Finland's largest and most advanced healthcare systems, began preparations in 2024 for the opening of its new Tammisairaala Eye Hospital. As part of this project, the hospital sought a reliable and ergonomic solution for transporting sterile surgical instruments between the facility's central sterilization department and operating theatres.
The Challenge
This project would mark the hospital's first implementation of a dedicated surgical case cart system at one of its facilities. Without an existing model to reference, the planning process demanded close attention to workflow details.
Early planning revealed several key challenges:
- Strict space constraints caused by a compact service elevator that limited allowable cart dimensions
- A competitive EU public tender process requiring cost efficiency under Finland's reformed healthcare budget
- The need for a solution that balances modularity, hygiene, and ergonomic access for staff
The project attracted strong competition from other EU-based suppliers, including Alvi, Belintra, ASANUS, and Silver & Stål. Open-frame carts were considered as a lower-cost alternative; however, concerns about long-term durability and infection-control compliance prompted the team to seek a higher-quality, fully enclosed system.
The Solution
After discovering Metro's CaseVue® surgical case carts on Metro.com, the HUS project team reached out directly to explore possible configurations. Through close collaboration between Metro, Metro’s dealer Medihealth Oy, and the hospital team, CaseVue® was selected and configured to meet Tammisairaala's clinical, spatial, and ergonomic requirements.
Each cart was designed for both sterile and used instrument transport, offering an ergonomic workflow between central sterilization and the operating suites. The clear polycarbonate doors allow instant visibility of contents, while the modular shelving layout accommodates a variety of sterile containers and wrapped sets.
Final Configuration:
- Product: Metro CaseVue® Surgical Case Carts with Clear Doors
- Shelf Size: 24" x 24"
- External Dimensions:5" W x 28" D x 58.25" H
- Shelving Setup: Combination of wire and solid shelves
- Feature Highlight: Partially extendable shelves for ergonomic access
- Options Selected: Biowheel, Communication Flags, Swing up mid-height handle
- Partner: Medihealth Oy (Finland)
View other Metro sterile processing solutions.
Implementation
The project required close coordination and technical precision. Metro and Medihealth Oy worked closely with the HUS logistics and surgical teams throughout the planning and tender phases.
Implementation highlights included:
- Precise elevator measurements to define maximum allowable cart dimensions
- Customization for ophthalmic surgical containers, which are typically lower in height
- Tailored setups for multiple operating departments (Lehti and Kaarna)
- Development of Finnish-language documentation and presentations for tender evaluation
- Transparent communication throughout a public procurement process involving over 150 exchanged emails
The contract was awarded to Medihealth Oy in January 2025, marking the first Metro CaseVue installation in Finland.
Results
Since delivery, the CaseVue® system has received strong user satisfaction. Operating room staff report improved visibility, safer handling, and a quieter, more efficient environment.
Key outcomes include:
- Enhanced ergonomic safety through pull-out shelving that reduces strain when lifting heavy instrument trays
- Quieter casters that minimize corridor noise near the operating theatres
- Clear doors and indicator tags for quick status identification and better workflow visibility
- A durable, modular system designed to support future hospital expansion
Customer Perspective
"The window was an original feature we liked, along with the indicator flags that let us see the cart's status from a distance. The pull-out shelves are especially important, allowing nurses to lift heavier instrument trays safely. Another pleasant surprise was how quiet the casters are—this really helps reduce noise near the operating rooms."
— Sanna Piiponniemi, Assistant Head Nurse, HUS Tammisairaala Eye Hospital
Conclusion
The Metro CaseVue® carts helped establish efficient sterile transport at the newly built HUS Tammisairaala Eye Hospital and are now a central part of the hospital's instrument logistics process.
By engaging early with clinical staff, Metro and Medihealth Oy were able to refine every detail, including sizing and shelf configuration, to provide a system tailored to meet the hospital's spatial, ergonomic, and workflow requirements. The result is a durable, user-focused solution that supports quiet, safe, and visible transport of surgical instruments throughout daily operations.