People. Ideas. Progress.
Since our foundation in 1970, we have developed continuously - from the first ideas to becoming a leading player in the medical technology industry. Even in the years before that, Hermann Sutter set the course for our company as we know it today: in 1967, he developed the first bipolar forceps in Europe, together with his former employer and in close collaboration with Prof. Gazi Yaşargil, who was later honored as "Neurosurgery's Man of the Century". In this section, we share with you the defining milestones in our history and the stories behind our growth. They show what drives us – then and now.
The Journey of Sutter Medizintechnik
1970
Company foundation
Our story begins in 1970, when Hermann Sutter, Klaus Holzhauer and their wives founded Holzhauer & Sutter GmbH in Wildtal near Freiburg in Baden, Germany. With a shared vision and entrepreneurial pioneering spirit, they laid the foundations for what would later become Sutter Medizintechnik.
1972
First US patent
Just two years later, in 1972, Hermann Sutter was granted a US patent for the development of the EU connector for bipolar forceps – a groundbreaking innovation that is still the standard in the EU and many international markets today.
1980
A new era begins
A significant milestone follows in 1980: the company moves to new premises in Freiburg – and takes a decisive step forward. The in-house development and production of electrosurgical instruments begins, marking the start of a new era in terms of precision and quality.
1985
100% Sutter
In 1985, the Sutter family takes over all company shares and gives the company a new name: Select Medizin-Technik Hermann Sutter GmbH. This is a clear sign of the values that still characterize us today – independence, innovative strength and a commitment to better surgical results.
1995
A new chapter begins
In 1995, Bert Sutter joins the company – the beginning of a new chapter that continues to be characterized by vision, commitment and sustainable growth.
2000
Non-stick technology as a game changer
At Sutter, the early 2000s are characterized by bold innovation and groundbreaking changes. In 2000, we took a significant step forward: in close collaboration with Silverglide Surgical Technologies, we launched our first non-stick bipolar forceps. This innovation lays the foundation for greater precision in the operating theater and improves surgical results.
2000
RaVoR™: Introducing Precision in Sleep Therapy
In the same year, we launched the RaVoR™ system – based on our BM-780 II radiofrequency technology. It supports ENT specialists in the treatment of habitual snoring and mild sleep apnea. This milestone expanded our portfolio into the field of sleep-related disorders and set new standards in radiofrequency surgery.
2003
To-BiTE simplifies bipolar tonsillectomy
In 2003, we set new standards with the introduction of the To-BITE bipolar forceps. It combines four functions in a single instrument: suction, coagulation, dissection and grasping. This optimizes bipolar tonsillectomy and offers surgeons greater efficiency and flexibility in the operating theatre.
2004
From the founder to the next generation
2004 marks the beginning of a new chapter: company founder Hermann Sutter hands over the management of the company to Bert Sutter – a significant generational change. This step also gives the company its current name: Sutter Medizintechnik GmbH.
2007
CURIS® launches - and sets new standards
In 2007, we present the CURIS® 4 MHz radiofrequency generator – a pioneering development that sets new standards in precision and versatility. Whether in ENT or other microsurgical disciplines: CURIS® supports surgical procedures worldwide and continues to make an important contribution to the best possible treatment results.
2009
The beginning of a success story
The next big step follows in 2009: we launch the first generation of our SuperGliss® non-stick bipolar forceps on the market. Developed for maximum reliability and performance, they quickly become an integral part of the operating theater. What began as a product series has since grown into a versatile portfolio of non-stick solutions – tailored to the requirements of a wide range of specialties.
2010
Green energy for strong ideas
In 2010, we are not only focusing on innovation in the operating theater, but also on sustainability. Two of our three buildings are undergoing extensive energy refurbishment – and are 20 percent below the already strict German efficiency standards. We are sending out a clear signal with a solar system that supplies around 20,000 kWh of green electricity every year: Medical progress and ecological responsibility go hand in hand for us.
2010
When details make the difference
In the same year, we expand our product portfolio once again – with the market launch of non-stick monopolar intake manifolds. Thanks to a special, heat-resistant material, overheating of the tip is effectively reduced. In this way, we bring the advantages of non-stick technology to the field of monopolar instruments.
2011
2011: The start of the Calvian® success story
In 2011, we provide the answer to a challenging surgical question - with the Calvian® bipolar forceps. The precision instrument revolutionizes bipolar coagulation in FESS, transnasal endoscopic skull base surgery and laryngeal procedures. Specially developed for the requirements of ENT and skull base surgery, the Calvian® enables maximum control in particularly sensitive surgical fields – wherever millimeter precision counts.
2012
Sutter Pacific: Our gateway to the Far East
The momentum remains tangible in 2012 – a year full of bold steps forward. With the founding of Sutter Pacific and the opening of our first sales office in Hong Kong, we are moving closer to our partners and users in Asia. A milestone that strengthens our international presence in the long term.
2012
Calvian endo-pen® - precision in narrow spaces
In the same year, we launch the Calvian endo-pen® – a slim, elegantly designed bipolar forceps with a particularly thin shaft. Ideal for endonasal and transnasal endoscopic procedures, Calvian endo-pen® impresses with its precise handling in narrow anatomical structures. It quickly established itself as the preferred instrument for minimally invasive precision.
2013
Masterpiece™ - Precision in its most beautiful form
In 2013, we combine innovation and growth: we launch the Masterpiece™ non-stick bipolar forceps on the market - developed for the highest demands in microsurgery. With filigree tines and an excellent view of the tip, they quickly become an indispensable tool for precise work in the OR.
2013
We are growing - technologically and internationally
For us, innovation does not end at the operating table. With the construction of a state-of-the-art coating facility in Freiburg, we are making targeted investments in our future – and at the same time strengthening our production capacities and quality assurance. We are also continuing to grow internationally: we are opening a representative office in Shenzhen, China, thereby strengthening our presence in Asia – a clear sign of our global commitment.
2013
Expansion of the product portfolio: SuperGliss® non-stick TEO
Our cooperation with the Australian neurosurgeon Charlie Teo, M.D. leads to an expansion of the SuperGliss® non-stick bipolar forceps range with the introduction of the SuperGliss® non-stick TEO bipolar forceps.
2015
Acquisition of Fentex medical GmbH
Another important step on our path is the strategic expansion through strong partners: FENTEX medical GmbH is a company that specializes in the development, production and distribution of surgical instruments and endoscopy systems for ear, nose and throat medicine. Founded in 2006, FENTEX became a sister company of Sutter Medizintechnik in 2015 – and has since complemented our portfolio with high-quality technology for diagnostic and interventional ENT.
2015
A moment of recognition. And an incentive for more.
In 2015, we receive the Medal of Merit from the German Society for Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery – a significant award that recognizes our commitment to progress in ENT medicine.
2016
Sutter reaches 100 employees and expands into the USA
We reach two important milestones in 2016: our team in Fribourg grows to over 100 employees and we create space for further growth by moving into two new buildings. In the same year, we establish Sutter USA in Atlanta, Georgia - bringing us closer to our partners in North America. A strong signal for our international orientation.
2017
RaVoR™ - Now also available as a single-use instrument
In 2017, we are expanding our portfolio with the RaVoR™ bipolar electrodes, single-use – a sophisticated solution for even greater safety and efficiency in everyday ENT work.
2018
Strong team. Clear direction.
In 2018, we are continuing our innovation journey – with an expanded management structure that will sustainably strengthen the growth of our company. Under the leadership of Bert Sutter, we welcome Reinhard Dichmann as VP Administration & Logistics, Petra Dischinger as VP Finance and Michael Sillmann as VP Technical Operations & Quality. Together, they are laying the foundations for the next development steps – strategically, structurally and in terms of people.
2019
2019 – A new chapter for Calvian endo-pen®
2019 is all about further development: our tried-and-tested Calvian endo-pen® product line is being systematically expanded. New tip designs, extended shaft lengths and the introduction of a non-stick version in bayonet shape offer even more precision and control – especially for complex endoscopic procedures. This results in solutions that are consistently geared towards the needs of surgical practice.
2020
2020 - A year of setting the course
In 2020, we sharpened our profile – in the truest sense of the word: with the Swyng® non-stick bipolar forceps, we launched a high-performance disposable solution in the USA that combines precision and user-friendliness. At the same time, the ARROWtip™ monopolar microdissection electrode, single-use, is another disposable instrument innovation: ultra-fine, precise and ideal for controlled tissue dissection in a wide range of surgical specialties.
While our products are arriving in operating theaters worldwide, we are laying the foundations for the future at our Emmendingen site: the ground-breaking ceremony for our new company headquarters marks the beginning of a new era – with more room for collaboration, innovation and growth.
At the same time, we are strengthening our management team: Dr. Simone Peschl joins the extended management team as Vice President Business Development & Market Access, adding fresh expertise and strategic vision to Bert Sutter's management team.
2021
Swyng® goes global
In 2021, we are crossing borders – in the truest sense of the word. Following the successful product launch in the US, our Swyng® non-stick bipolar forceps, single-use, are now being launched worldwide. With straight and angled tips, they combine modern precision and control with the simplicity of a single-use product – an innovation that is impressing surgeons around the globe.
2022
2022 – A milestone for Sutter Medizintechnik
The opening of our new headquarters in the heart of Emmendingen marks the beginning of a new chapter in Germany. Not far from the Green City of Freiburg, a center is being created that uniquely combines progress, sustainability, and corporate culture. The modern new building embodies our values and our vision: medical technology of the highest standard – for people worldwide.
2023
2023 – Successful MDR Certification
In 2023, Sutter Medizintechnik successfully completed certification under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR). By meeting these stringent European requirements, the company reaffirms its commitment to the highest standards in quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.
