Operating table

A 19th-century operating table.

Operating table system with a stationary unit

An operating table, also known as an operating room table or surgical table, is a specially designed medical table on which a patient is positioned to undergo a surgical procedure. It is one of the most essential pieces of surgical equipment in an operating room or surgical suite of a hospital, clinic, or ambulatory surgery center.

Modern operating tables are designed to provide stability, adjustability, and access for the surgical team, while accommodating a wide range of surgical specialties and procedures.

Types and Classifications

Operating tables can be broadly classified into two main types:

• Operating table systems
• Mobile operating tables

Operating Table System

An operating table system typically consists of three integrated components:

• Operating table column: Anchors the structure and houses the electronics or hydraulics for positioning.
• Tabletop surface: The platform on which the patient lies, often modular and radiolucent for use with imaging.
• Transporter: A device or mechanism for positioning or moving the tabletop.

Operating table systems are frequently used in high-end surgical environments and are often installed as stationary units, with the column permanently anchored to the floor.

Stationary Operating Table System

In a stationary setup, the base and column are fixed in the operating room floor. This design:

• Provides greater stability during procedures.
• Allows easy integration of imaging equipment such as X-ray, CT or C-arm fluoroscopy, as the radiolucent tabletop permits unobstructed imaging.
• Offers improved accessibility for surgical personnel due to the absence of a mobile base and obtrusive foot structures.

Mobile Operating Tables

Mobile tables are designed to be flexible and are typically used in settings where surgery is performed in different locations or for specific disciplines. They usually include:

• Integrated wheels for movement.
• Hydraulic or electric controls for adjusting position and height.
• Specialized table designs for orthopedic, gynecological, neurological, or ophthalmic procedures.

While mobile tables offer versatility, they may be limited in their imaging compatibility and overall rigidity compared to fixed systems.

Features

Modern operating tables include advanced features to support a wide range of surgical needs:

• Electronic or manual height adjustment
• Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg positioning
• Lateral tilt
• Modular attachments for headrests, leg supports, arm boards, and traction systems
• Radiolucent materials to accommodate intraoperative imaging

Specialized Table Tops

Interchangeable or modular table tops are designed for specific types of surgery:

• Neurosurgical: Head fixation and delicate positioning
• Orthopedic: Traction systems and fracture frames
• Cardiothoracic: Enhanced imaging compatibility
• Gynecologic/Urologic: Lithotomy positioning and drainage capabilities

Safety and Ergonomics

Safety features are critical for both patient and staff:

• Locking mechanisms to prevent accidental movement
• Padding to prevent pressure injuries
• Anti-microbial surfaces for infection control
• Ergonomic design for surgical team comfort and accessibility

See Also

• Operating room
• Surgical instrument
• Anesthesia machine
• Patient positioning
• Operating room management