MedTech orthopedics - supported by Scientific Advisory Board

Vimian's MedTech segment is supported by its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), consisting of some of the most well-renowned veterinary surgeons worldwide. We spoke with Terri Schiller, a board-certified small animal veterinary surgeon, about her role on the Scientific Advisory Board and its significance.

Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you became involved with Vimian and Movora?

I’ve been a veterinary surgeon for over 30 years, with a strong focus in orthopaedics. My connection to Vimian dates back to 2003 when I began working with BioMedtrix as an educator and advisor specific to canine total hip replacement and other advanced veterinary orthopedic procedures. 

In 2020, Vimian brought together under one umbrella, three key orthopaedic companies, BioMedtrix, Kyon and Veterinary Orthopedic Implants, to form Movora. Each of these companies was utilising a skilled group of veterinary surgeons as consultants for education, marketing and research and development purposes.

Movora, in 2022, subsequently created the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), a group composed of key opinion leaders in veterinary orthopaedic surgery that would help provide industry insight, guide product development and assist in the creation of veterinary surgery continuing education programs for advancing veterinary orthopaedics worldwide. I was honored to be asked to be a part of the SAB and have been a board member since its inception. 

What is the purpose of the Scientific Advisory Board?

The board acts as a bridge between the real-world challenges faced by veterinary surgeons and the innovations being developed by Movora and Vimian. We’re a group of 17 experts from around the globe, each with years of experience in veterinary orthopaedics. Our role is to identify gaps in the market, provide feedback on existing products, and guide the development of new products, techniques and education. It’s about ensuring that Vimian stays ahead of the curve while addressing the evolving needs of the profession.

How does the board operate?

We meet to discuss everything within veterinary surgery, from current product evaluations, identifying new products for development, discussing industry trends and needs, and reviewing the various surgery education programs supported by Movora. It’s really about openly reflecting on what is working very well, what needs changing and what new initiatives should be explored. There is a common goal of being the best we can be with all that Movora does. 

Initially, there was some trepidation and uncertainty among the board members — after all, we all came from different companies and were used to competing with one another — but over time, collaboration and cohesiveness has flourished.

What impact does the Scientific Advisory Board have on the veterinary industry would you say?

Vimian is at the forefront of veterinary orthopaedics. Its broad product portfolio supports both general practitioners and specialists, helping them deliver the best care possible to their patients. The advisory board ensures that the company’s offerings meet the practical needs of veterinary professionals worldwide.

Based on your experience and conversations in the board and elsewhere, where do you see the future of veterinary orthopaedics heading?

The field is constantly evolving, new procedures arise, implant designs change, technologies advance. One major trend we see is the growing interest among general practitioners to learn more advanced orthopaedic procedures. This is driven by a few factors,  professional satisfaction and the desire for ongoing learning, financial considerations, and the rising costs of specialist care. Vimian is uniquely positioned to support this trend through education and mentorship. By equipping generalists with the tools and knowledge they need, we’re making advanced care accessible to more pets and their owners.

What makes Vimian different from other companies in the sector?

I’m a bit biased, of course, but Vimian’s commitment to innovation, quality, excellence and collaboration sets it apart. The company listens to the expertise of its advisory board and adapts to the realities of the profession. This openness ensures that its products remain relevant and effective. For me, being part of this process is incredibly rewarding — seeing how our input translates into real-world impact is what makes the work very worthwhile.