Customize Surgical Models With Us

Yes. Developing new surgical procedures is a core part of what NorthernBio does. Our Study Directors and Surgical Scientists build the model around the device or therapeutic being tested. 

During feasibility assessment, we will assess surgical approach, equipment needs, imaging needs, and post-operative care. We conduct pilot work as necessary to ensure that the model is established/viable prior to starting the pivotal study.

Preclinical evaluation typically begins with non-clinical benchtop testing—such as mechanical testing, biocompatibility, and drug-device compatibility—tailored to the specific implant type.

Device programs then progress through targeted animal studies, moving from surgical feasibility and tolerability to formal GLP safety assessments using the intended clinical implantation site and technique. 

NorthernBio’s team of surgeons brings over 100 years of combined experience across a full range of procedures, including neuro, soft tissue, long bone, spinal, and craniofacial implantations, as well as intrathecal, epidural, and intracranial device placement.

NorthernBio supports surgical research across both small and large animal species, including mice, rats, rabbits, swine, sheep, dogs, and non-human primates. Our team designs surgical models and dosing/implantation procedures tailored to the anatomical and physiological requirements of your specific test article and target indication.

Preclinical wound healing programs utilize several established models depending on the therapeutic goal, including excisional, incisional, burn/thermal, tape stripping/abrasion, and chronic or impaired healing models (such as diabetic or ischemic conditions). Rodents and swine are the standard and recommended species for these studies. NorthernBio currently offers full-thickness excisional and incisional wound models, with the capability to expand into partial-thickness and specialized models to support specific study protocols.

We have extensive experience designing and executing specialized bleed models to evaluate the efficacy of hemostatic agents and surgical sealants, including:

Compressible Hemorrhage

• Femoral/carotid injury models: high-pressure bleeding

Non-compressible Hemorrhage

• Liver bleed models
• Spleen bleed models
• Partial nephrectomy
• Pulmonary hemorrhage
• Vascular graft models

Yes. We are available to work with your team, whether that be using our internal expertise to conduct the pilot and definitive study independently, training with your team, or supporting a sponsor surgeon.

NorthernBio performs surgical model work at our state-of-the-art facilities in Muskegon, Michigan located in West Michigan, about 40 miles from Grand Rapids.