Nonhuman Primate Models in Translational Surgery

Background: Nonhuman primates (NHPs) play a unique role in translational science by bridging the gap between basic and clinical investigations and are often seen as a last step before clinical application. They are widely utilized in biomedical research due to their anatomical and physiological similarities to humans. Examples of commonly used species include the genera Macaca (macaques), Papio (baboons), Aotus (owl monkeys), Callithrix (marmosets), Saimiri (squirrel monkeys), and Chlorocebus (vervet monkeys). Summary: NHP models have played an instrumental role in the development of surgical techniques, each being balanced with a unique set of advantages and shortcomings. With the appropriate selection of species and anatomy, animal models can be used to provide insight into the pathophysiology of diseases, to confirm the feasibility of new surgery technologies, to assess the potential efficacy of new surgical techniques for specific clinical outcomes, and to establish reasonable safety of new techniques for specified clinical use. Robotics have augmented surgical precision for microinjections and a brain-spine robotic interface used in gait restoration, illustrating the translational potential of NHP models in human neurological research. Recent studies highlight protocols for procedures such as tubectomy and spinal cord access with minimal postoperative risk, expanding surgical possibilities. Key Messages: This review provides an overview of the recent advancements made in surgery in NHP models and the translation of these techniques to the clinical setting. Surgical refinements not only enhance animal welfare but also improve the quality of experimental outcomes. The integration of robotics, imaging, and personalized approaches signifies a transformative shift in NHP surgical models, encouraging collaboration among veterinary and research staff for continuous progress.