HMDmd

The next time you go in for surgery, your surgeon might be wearing a device created by HMDmd.

Don’t be alarmed, though. This device is a high-definition wearable monitor that’s designed for microscopic, minimally-invasive, and robotic-assisted procedures. It integrates with leading surgical-imaging systems and offers surgeons a more ergonomic, immersive experience.

HMDmd created this device to improve how surgeons complete operations. This is the same team that developed the first FDA-cleared surgical wearable monitor.

Eighty-two percent of surgeons report pain and fatigue while operating. And nearly seventy percent experience significant discomfort during a procedure.

Surgeons rely on large, external screens to see what they’re doing. But glancing at these screens disrupts focus and reduces surgical efficiency. Other wearable displays like Augmented-Reality/Virtual-Reality headsets from Microsoft and Apple lack surgical-grade ergonomics and imaging capabilities. In other words, they weren’t built for surgery.

HMDmd’s wearable monitor was designed specifically for surgeons. Key features include:

• Natural, ultra-high-definition 3D with true depth perception.

• A LookDown feature that provides transition between surgical display and a direct view of the patient and instruments.

• Peripheral vision preserved — surgeons remain visually connected with the operating team.

• Open-display design — situational awareness at all times mitigates the “cyber sickness” and stress frequently associated with enclosed AR/VR headsets.

• Weighing just 260 grams minimizes fatigue and enhances comfort during long procedures.

The demand for real-time, high-resolution tools like HMDmd’s monitor is increasing. The market for wearable surgical visualization stands at around fifteen billion dollars.

HMDmd has licensing and strategic relationships with multiple medical-device and surgical-system manufacturers. And its device launched in April 2025.

Team Background

John Lyon - Co-Founder & CEO

Prior to starting HMDmd, John was a business development consultant to early-stage medical-device companies. His assignments included incubating two endoscopy applications, planning commercialization strategy for an obesity device and operating roles in obesity and dermatology companies.

In 1993 he founded Vista Medical Technologies, a pioneer in 3D visualization for minimally invasive surgery. He was CEO until 2005 and Chairman from 2001 to 2007.

Vista was spun out of a major aerospace company, with funding from venture capital and strategic partners. Prior to Vista, John was employed by The Cooper Companies (COO) from 1984 to 1992, serving variously as President of the International Division of Cooper LaserSonics, and President of CooperSurgical, a leading gynecology device company.

He has also served as a non-executive independent director of six early-stage med-tech companies. John studied at Durham University.

Allen Newman - Co-Founder & Director

Allen has been at the forefront of developments in minimally-invasive surgery since its inception.

He has extensive experience of sales, marketing, business development, product conception and clinical applications with leading companies in the field. He has also been involved in multiple early-stage companies as a consultant, principal and fund advisor.

Prior to HMDmd, he was worked for Olympus America, a medical-device company, and his career also includes senior positions with Karl Store Storz Endoscopy, ultimately serving as Vice President of Sales and Marketing.

Allen was also a co-founder and Senior Vice President of Vista Medical Technologies, creating innovative 3D and Head Mounted Display visualization technology for minimally-invasive surgery. He maintains an extensive global network of clinical and industry relationships in MIS surgery, endoscopy and related disciplines.

Howard Sampson - Co-Founder & CFO

Howard has more than forty years of senior financial experience, including in the biomedical industry taking companies from start-up to IPO.

He has served five publicly-traded companies as their Chief Financial Officer, in two of which he played an integral role in taking them from inception through IPO or acquisition. His career also includes extensive experience in venture capital funding, private equity financings, strategic partnerships and a reverse merger.

Co-Investors