Types of Surgical Operating Tables and Their Functions

Functionality, component quality, appearance and cost all matter when choosing a modern operating table. The original article describes newer models as well equipped, stylish and affordable; these qualities need to be assessed for the particular product. Tables can support a wide range of surgical tasks, depending on their intended use and compatible accessories. The source identifies the following types:

• General surgical tables.
• Gynaecological and urological tables.
• Proctology tables.
• Neurosurgical tables.

Other designs serve more specialised areas, including ophthalmology and ear, nose and throat surgery. A table’s suitability for a speciality depends on its approved configuration, positioning range and accessories, rather than its name alone.

Categories of operating tables

The original article groups tables into three practical categories:

• Orthopaedic tables.
• Dressing and treatment tables.
• Universal or general-purpose tables.

This is the source’s classification, rather than an exhaustive standard covering every product. A dressing table should not automatically be treated as suitable for an operation simply because it appears in the same list.

Depending on the model, tables may have a fixed installation or a mobile design. Mobility can help staff position equipment where it is needed, including for urgent work, but does not by itself make a table ideal for emergency surgery. Fixed systems may offer extensive functionality for an operating suite; mobile models can also be highly versatile. Movement with a patient on the table is a separate intended-use question. For example, the STERIS 4095 manual prohibits using that table for patient transport. STERIS 4095 operator manual.

What requirements should the equipment meet?

The source highlights four considerations for selection:

• The patient-support surface. Radiolucent materials are useful when imaging during a procedure is required. Seamless upholstery can facilitate cleaning, but imaging access and pad construction must be checked for the chosen model.
• Ease of operation and reliability. Powered adjustment can simplify positioning, but staff need training in the controls. Suspected faults require appropriate assessment; no table can be assumed to operate without failures.
• Versatility. Position changes, rapid adjustment and compatible optional accessories should match the planned procedures. A table does not need every conceivable function, and an emergency does not justify movements outside its permitted range.
• Suitable materials. Construction should meet the applicable requirements for the device and its intended use.

Reliable use also depends on following the manufacturer’s instructions, maintenance and safety checks. The FDA advises trained use of electrical operating tables, checking for obstructions and observing the manufacturer’s load limits; it has received reports of positioning problems and unintended movement. FDA: safe use of electrical operating tables.

Materials and upholstery should permit cleaning and disinfection with products compatible with the particular table. A disinfectant commonly used in an operating theatre is not necessarily suitable for every surface. Cleaning and disinfection of the table remain necessary under the facility’s infection-control procedures. CDC: operating-room surface cleaning.

Some manufacturers also offer surfaces with antibacterial properties. For example, Getinge describes an antibacterial treatment on the rubber bellows of its Maquet Corin table to reduce bacterial growth on that surface. Such a product-specific feature does not make the whole table sterile or replace routine cleaning and disinfection. Getinge: Maquet Corin surface features.

How a surgical table is constructed

The main components described in the source are:

• The base. This may be made from stainless steel or metal with a polymer coating. The supporting structure also incorporates mechanisms for adjusting the patient-support surface.
• The sections. The source describes designs with three or more sections. Some sections can be separated or removed; the arrangement depends on the model.
• The drive system. Electrically powered mechanisms are used on many tables, sometimes with several actuators. The source also mentions a duplicate electric drive as a backup if the main drive fails. Any redundancy is a manufacturer-designed, model-specific feature, not a function to assume or add independently.
• Options and accessories. These may include supports, suspension attachments, stands, positioning fixtures and additional sections. Their compatibility must be confirmed for the table and procedure.

Hydraulic and electrohydraulic operating tables are also available. Depending on the design, adjustment may use hand-control buttons, pedals or a combination. Button control has not universally replaced pedals. Backup arrangements vary too: the STERIS 4095, for example, has a hydraulic foot-pump and auxiliary hand control for a primary-control malfunction. Staff must follow the instructions for the particular system. STERIS 4095: drive and backup controls.

Original source: Zaplata — Types of Surgical Operating Tables and Their Functions. Russian article on MEDICTUR.