Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about our surgical simulators, ordering, and institutional programs.

Products & Simulators

What are makemedical simulators made of?

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Our simulators are manufactured using a combination of 3D printing, medical-grade silicone, and precision molding techniques. Each model is derived from real patient CT and MRI scans, ensuring anatomically accurate geometry. The multi-layer construction replicates distinct tissue planes, muscle, and skin, giving trainees a realistic tactile experience during dissection and suturing.

Are your simulators validated by published research?

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Yes. Our simulators are backed by 18 peer-reviewed publications in journals including JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery, American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Anesthesia & Analgesia, and The Laryngoscope. These studies validate construct validity, training effectiveness, and proficiency discrimination. Visit our Publications page for the complete list.

How many times can each simulator be used?

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Usage varies by product. Products involving cutting and suturing (such as the Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate simulators) are designed as single-use task trainers. The Fundamentals of Vaginal Surgery system uses replaceable inserts, allowing the base trainer to be reused indefinitely while inserts are replaced after each session.

Which simulators do you currently offer?

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Our current product line includes: Fundamentals of Vaginal Surgery Task Trainer, Cleft Lip Simulator, Cleft Palate Simulator, Pediatric Airway Simulator, Rib Simulator, and Auricular Hematoma Simulator. Additional simulators including the Buccal Flap Cleft Palate Simulator are launching soon. Visit our Store for current pricing and availability.

Who designed these simulators?

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makemedical was founded by Dr. Glenn Green, Dr. David Zopf, and Dr. Kyle VanKoevering, practicing surgeons at the University of Michigan. Our simulators are designed by surgeons, for surgeons, ensuring every model addresses real training needs encountered in the operating room.

Ordering & Pricing

How do I place an order?

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You can purchase directly from our online Store. Simply add products to your cart and check out. We accept all major credit cards, and financing is available through Klarna. No sales call required.

Do you offer volume or institutional pricing?

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Yes. We offer volume pricing for residency programs, simulation centers, and hospitals ordering multiple units. Use the Request a Volume Quote form on our Store page with your institution name, the simulators you need, and approximate quantities. We typically respond within 1-2 business days.

Can I purchase with a purchase order (PO)?

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Yes. We accept institutional purchase orders for volume orders. Please submit a volume quote request through our Store page or contact us directly with your PO details and we'll work with your procurement team.

What are your prices?

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All prices are listed transparently on our Store page. Individual simulators range from $67 to $175. The Fundamentals of Vaginal Surgery system (including task trainer, inserts, and curriculum) is priced separately. Volume discounts are available for institutional orders.

Shipping & Delivery

Where do you ship?

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We ship throughout the United States and internationally. Our simulators are currently used at institutions across the country, including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Boston Children’s Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital, and many more. For international inquiries, please contact us to discuss shipping options.

How long does shipping take?

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Standard orders typically ship within 3-5 business days. Delivery times depend on your location and shipping method selected at checkout. For time-sensitive needs (courses, workshops, conferences), please mention your deadline in the order notes or contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

What is your return policy?

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Due to the medical nature of our products, we handle returns on a case-by-case basis. If you receive a damaged or defective product, please contact us within 14 days of delivery with photos and we will arrange a replacement or refund. Unused products in original packaging may be eligible for return.

Training & Curriculum

Do your simulators come with training curricula?

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The Fundamentals of Vaginal Surgery system includes a comprehensive curriculum with demonstration videos and validated assessment tools. For other simulators, we provide setup guidance and recommended training protocols. We’re expanding our curriculum offerings — contact us if you need training resources for a specific product.

Can I use these simulators for residency training programs?

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Absolutely. Our simulators are specifically designed for surgical education and are used in residency programs at leading academic medical centers nationwide. The published validation studies demonstrate their effectiveness for both novice training and advanced skill assessment.

Can I use your simulators for a course or workshop?

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Yes. Many institutions use our simulators for surgical simulation courses, bootcamps, and fellowship training events. For large-scale course orders, use our volume quote form to ensure availability. We can often accommodate rush orders for upcoming courses with advance notice.

Institutions & Partnerships

Which institutions use makemedical simulators?

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Our simulators are trusted by leading healthcare institutions including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Boston Children’s Hospital, Texas Children’s Hospital, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, University of Michigan Medical School, and many others. Visit our homepage to see the full list of partner institutions.

How can my institution become a partner?

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We welcome partnerships with simulation centers, residency programs, and healthcare institutions. Whether you’re interested in adopting our simulators for training, collaborating on research, or exploring a custom simulation solution, please contact us to start the conversation.

Do you develop custom simulators?

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Yes. Our team has expertise in developing custom 3D-printed surgical simulators derived from patient imaging data. If you have a specific anatomical or procedural training need, reach out to discuss your requirements. We’ve collaborated with surgical teams across multiple specialties.

Product Care & Storage

How should I store my simulators?

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Store simulators in their original packaging at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Silicone components should be kept clean and dry when not in use. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of simulators, as this may deform delicate anatomical features over time.

How do I clean my simulator after use?

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Gently wipe silicone surfaces with a damp cloth after training sessions. Do not use harsh solvents, alcohol-based cleaners, or abrasive materials, as these can degrade silicone over time. For multi-use simulators, allow components to air dry completely before re-packaging. Specific care instructions are included with each product.

Still have questions?

We’re happy to help with product selection, institutional pricing, or custom simulator development.

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