What are the Large Animal Stereotaxic Instruments?

The RWD Large Animal Stereotaxic Instruments are purpose-built for neuroscience research in cats, dogs, monkeys, pigs, and other large non-human subjects. Where standard rodent frames fall short, the large animal platform delivers the structural rigidity and extended range needed to precisely target deep brain structures in larger species. The instrument is available in both standard (100 μm) and digital (10 μm) resolution variants, and the modular multi-arm design supports up to six independent manipulator arms for complex, multi-site surgical workflows.

The Y-axis slide provides ±100 mm of linear travel (1 mm standard resolution, upgradeable to 50 μm with the optional AP Micro-driver), while X and Z axes maintain the same 80 mm working distance and 0.1 mm resolution as RWD’s rodent platform. A uniquely designed jaw plate system accommodates large animals ranging from under 10 kg (with the 68041 adaptor) to 10–30 kg (with the 68081 monkey adaptor), ensuring a stable, reproducible head-fixed position throughout lengthy surgical sessions.

Key Features

• Multi-Species Platform: Interchangeable adaptors accommodate cats, dogs, monkeys, pigs, and other large animals in a range of body weights, making this a versatile frame for primate and large-animal research programs.
• Extended Y-Axis Range (±100 mm): The Y-axis slide design provides a much longer anterior-posterior travel range than rodent frames, accommodating the longer skulls of large animals. Optional AP Micro-driver upgrades Y-axis resolution to 50 μm.
• Dual Resolution Models: Choose between the standard model (100 μm, models 68813/68814) for routine procedures, or the digital display model (10 μm, models 68815/68816) for high-precision targeting applications.
• Up to Six Manipulator Arms: The large base accommodates up to six independent manipulator arms for simultaneous multi-site injection, recording, or stimulation.
• Unique Jaw Plate Design: A specialized jaw plate mechanism provides superior stability for heavy large-animal heads compared to standard ear bar approaches, maintaining fixation throughout extended surgeries.
• Dual-Lead Screws: Consistent with RWD’s standard platform, dual-lead screws on all axes ensure smooth, stable manipulation with minimal backlash.
• Full Angle Rotation: 180° vertical and 360° horizontal rotation on all manipulator arms, lockable at any angle for angled approach trajectories.