Leica M525
The Leica M525 is a microscope head with the OptiChrome optical system, combined with different suspension systems and equipment selected for the intended application. At Medical Elektro, the configurations we encounter most often are the M525 F40 and M525 F50. Motorized 1:6 zoom and working distance adjustment within a range of 207–470 mm allow smooth adjustment of the viewing parameters. The model is used in neurosurgery, spine surgery, ENT (otolaryngology), and plastic and reconstructive surgery, among other fields. Currently available units are listed below.
Leica M525 – model overview
The Leica M525 belongs to the family of Leica microscopes. The model comes with the mobile Leica F20, Leica F40, Leica F50 and OH4 stands, as well as in C40 and C50 ceiling-mounted and CT20 and CT40 telescopic versions. At Medical Elektro, the configurations we encounter most often are the M525 F40 and M525 F50.
Optics, zoom and working distance
The Leica M525 uses the OptiChrome optical system, motorized 1:6 zoom and motorized working distance adjustment within a range of 207–470 mm. Magnification and focusing can be controlled from the handles or a foot control, depending on the configuration. In selected configurations, an optional XY module provides additional adjustment of the optical axis position over the surgical site.
The OptiChrome system combines high image resolution with a large depth of field, reducing the need for frequent refocusing when viewing structures at different levels. The 1:6 zoom allows a transition from a wide field of view to higher magnification of a selected area. Motorized working distance adjustment within a range of 207–470 mm allows focusing on structures at different distances from the objective without changing the position of the microscope head.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Optical system | Leica OptiChrome |
| Zoom | 1:6 (motorized) |
| Working distance | 207–470 mm (motorized adjustment) |
| Total magnification | 1.2×–12.8× (10× eyepieces) |
| Field of view | 16.5–180 mm (10× eyepieces) |
| Eyepieces | 10× or 12.5×; dioptric adjustment ±5 |
| AutoIris | automatic adjustment of the illumination field diameter as magnification changes |
| BrightCare | light intensity limitation depending on the working distance |
| Binocular tubes | straight binocular tube 0° inclined binocular tube with a fixed 45° angle tiltable binocular tube 30–150° tiltable binocular tube 0–180° (depending on the configuration) |
| Assistant view | stereoscopic assistant view (Side view) or Face to Face; Leica ULT500 180° (optional on F40, F50/C50 and OH4) |
| XY module | 62 × 62 mm; motorized movement and return to center position (optional on F50/C50) |
| Illumination | F20/CT20: 2 × xenon 180 W F40/C40/CT40: xenon 300 W + backup halogen 150 W F50/C50: 2 × xenon 300 W OH4: 2 × xenon 300 W |
| Suspension systems | F20, F40, F50 and OH4 – mobile C40 and C50 – ceiling-mounted CT20 and CT40 – telescopic ceiling suspension systems |
In F50/C50 configurations, the optional XY module allows adjustment of the optical axis position over a range of 62 × 62 mm. The function that returns the XY module to its center position makes it easier to restore its initial position.
Positioning and configurations of the Leica M525
In the M525 F40 configuration, the positioning system includes six electromagnetic brakes: four in the stand and two in the microscope carrier. Controls on the handles allow the brakes to be released while positioning the microscope and the axes to be locked again once movement is complete. The compact base and long arm make it easier to position the microscope beside the operating table, while the balanced design allows smooth guidance of the microscope and keeps it in the selected position.
The control panel allows individual user profiles to be created and saved. In F50/C50 configurations, a saved profile can include the initial illumination, magnification and working distance settings, the speeds of zoom, focusing and the XY module, and the functions assigned to the handles and foot control. Dioptric adjustment and interpupillary distance can also be saved in the profile. The ISUS panel in the F40 configuration can store up to eight user configurations and includes a self-diagnostic function.
Illumination, assistant view and image integration
AutoIris matches the illumination field diameter to the selected magnification, while BrightCare limits the maximum light intensity according to the working distance. The arrangement of main and backup light sources differs between configurations: F20/CT20 use two 180 W xenon sources, F40/C40/CT40 combine 300 W xenon with 150 W halogen, while F50/C50 and OH4 have two 300 W xenon sources. These differences apply to complete configurations and should not be attributed to the entire M525 family.
The observation system can include a stereoscopic assistant view (Side view) or a Face to Face arrangement. The optional Leica ULT500 bridge in F40, F50/C50 and OH4 configurations enables stereoscopic observation by an assistant positioned to the side of or opposite the surgeon. Depending on the configuration, the M525 can also be equipped with image recording solutions, the DI C500 module, integration with IGS neuronavigation, and FL400 or FL800 fluorescence systems. These elements are not standard equipment across the entire family.
Applications of the Leica M525
The Leica M525 is a multidisciplinary surgical microscope used in neurosurgery, spine surgery, ENT (otolaryngology), and plastic and reconstructive surgery. The wide choice of stands and additional equipment allows the microscope to be adapted both to standard microsurgical work and to procedures using neuronavigation, neuroendoscopy or vascular fluorescence. F20 and CT20 configurations are also used for selected dental procedures.
In neurosurgery and spine surgery, the working distance range and motorized zoom and focusing controls allow magnification and focus to be adjusted without repositioning the entire system. In ENT, the ability to position the head at different angles while maintaining access to a narrow surgical field is significant. In each of these applications, the microscope’s capabilities depend on the combination of the M525 head with the appropriate suspension system, observation path and additional equipment.
What determines the price of a used Leica M525 microscope?
On the second-hand market, the price of a used Leica M525 microscope depends on its technical condition, completeness and individual configuration, including the suspension system, binocular tube, assistant view, XY module and solutions for image recording, neuronavigation or fluorescence. At Medical Elektro, the level of preparation is neither an option offered to buyers nor a factor that differentiates the price, because every unit offered undergoes the same standard of refurbishment. Each complete configuration is priced individually.
Refurbished Leica M525 microscopes at Medical Elektro
“Used” means that the microscope has been operated previously. A refurbished surgical microscope is a used device that has undergone a multistage process of preparation for sale.
Refurbishment at Medical Elektro follows one standard applied to the complete configuration of each individual unit. For the Leica M525, it covers the complete microscope with the appropriate suspension system and the observation, imaging and control equipment actually fitted to that unit. Each refurbished unit has its own photographs and a description matching its configuration, and comes with a 12-month warranty. The full scope is described on the surgical microscope refurbishment process page.
Availability of Leica M525 microscopes
The Leica M525 device list is updated automatically. Availability, configuration and equipment details are provided for each unit.
Contact Medical Elektro about choosing a Leica M525 microscope, the equipment fitted to available units and an individual quotation.
Sold Leica M525 microscopes
