The U.S. dominates the global market for operating tables and is projected to be worth over $1,000 million by 2022. This equipment is easily the most critical part of an operating room, and essential to most successful surgical procedures.

With the medical equipment industry skyrocketing to meet demands, it is no surprise that manufacturers have designed a wide variety of options for every medical need.

Options for tables certainly don’t come cheap, so you’ll want to shop around before deciding on one that’s perfect for your needs. Luckily, with so many different options, you’ll be able to find one that is within your budget and well worth the investment.

Read on for the ultimate guide on how to choose surgical tables that are right for your hospital or healthcare facility.

What Are the Uses for an Operating Table?

This depends entirely on the specifications of the table and what functions it is designed to meet. Generally, a patient lies on an operating table during a procedure or check-up. The table acts as a bed to keep the patient comfortable but secured in place. 

Surgeons and nurses are then able to access different parts of the body using the table’s accessories and can complete their operation with ease.

Procedures such as pediatric, orthopedic, cardiovascular, and gynecological surgeries are performed on surgical tables. Thus, they have different heights, weights, and design specifications according to the specialty they are designed for. 

How Do You Plan to Use It?

Before you make a decision on which table to opt for, it is important to understand exactly how you plan to use it. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. What facility are you buying the table for? Considering the range of options available to you, begin by considering your hospital or facility and gauging whether there will be different surgical procedures performed or just one. This will help determine if you’ll benefit more from a general surgery table or a more specialized one such as an orthopedic table.
2. Who will you be treating? If you anticipate children using the table then you will have to consider different makes and sizes. If you anticipate having patients of all sizes then you could go for a more general shape and size.
3. What’s your budget? There will be different options for every budget. If you’re on a tight budget, a smaller, refurbished model will be sufficient. For those with a relatively large budget, a higher-end, new model will make sense. 

Once you’ve answered these questions for yourself, you’ll have a better idea of what you’re looking for, which will make the buying process that much easier!

Features of Operating Tables

Surgical tables may be stationary or mobile. Mobile units will be beneficial for facilities where the patient may need to be transported, such as for X-Rays and other imaging procedures.

Stationary tables are unable to be moved, however, they provide room under the table to store and position tools and equipment.

The three major components of surgical tables are:

1. Table column
2. Tabletop
3. Table transporter

Most surgical tables have an average height of 17-27 inches and usually, come with adjustable height settings.

Types of Surgery Tables

Patients comfort is key for any hospital or healthcare facility. Choose a table that works best for the kind of surgery performed, as that is key to picking the right model or design. Following are the most common types of operating units.

General Surgery Tables

This is easily the most common type of surgery table out there. Versatile enough to be used in a variety of different ways and procedures, general surgery tables provide a steady operating surface. 

They also come fitted out with height adjustment, Trendelenburg, and lateral tilt and slide according to the model. Here are a few of the key factors you should look for when considering general surgery table models:

• Accessibility: Surgeons should be able to access the surgical site comfortably. Angle, height, and movement adjustment are helpful to reach the area safely.
• Stability: The patient should be steady, without any sway or give if the patient moves. This is critical for any surgical procedures.
• Imaging support: If your facility relies on laparoscopic procedures, this feature will be important to you.
• Larger patient support: The table should be able to cater to obese patients. Look for a table that supports a minimum of 300 pounds so it is accessible to patients of all sizes.

The best general surgery tables will be right for both the patient and the surgeon.

Orthopedic Tables

With the rise in orthopedic ailments such as osteoporosis, fractures, and dislocations, surgeons may wish to invest in a specific orthopedic table rather than a general surgery table.

The benefits of orthopedic tables are:

• The tables offer greater patient comfort for procedures like shoulder operations, myelograms, and hip and knee replacements.
• Easy positioning for spinal column surgeries.
• Easy access to X-ray imaging.
• Electrohydraulically adjustable shoulder plate.

Another great advantage of orthopedic tables is that they can be used for general surgery as well. The broader application range makes it a viable option for any hospital.

Urology and Cysto Tables

Ideal for more delicate surgeries requiring precise movement, these specialty tables allow surgeons control over the smallest movements and actions. 

This reduces the time spent in surgery as well as cuts down the risk of any technical errors. Other benefits of urology and cysto surgical tables include:

• Specific positions for seed implantation.
• Radiolucent extension, which is critical for brachytherapy treatment.
• Allowing surgeons access to the C arm for imaging or surgical purposes.

All these benefits mean that it is often used to position body parts in a specific way, such as for precision foot controls.

Neurology Tables

This is another option that is built for precision. It offers specific positioning with easy patient access. Any accidental movement can alter the course of neurological surgery, which is why these tables stand firm and steady to the ground.

Neurological tables have the following features:

• The back section, longitudinal slide, elevation, Trendelenburg, and more positioning options.
• Electro-hydraulic options, with manual controls.
• Foot-controlled tabletop slide function, which allows for easier hands-free movement.

For the neurological tables, accessories are key. For example, a rubber surface on a posturing control can go a long way in preventing any slippage.

Imaging Tables

Imaging procedures are required for most all other surgeries, so they will likely be a great investment for your hospital. When comparing table options, look for ones that will allow for imaging methods such as:

• Specialized 3d imaging.
• Fluoroscopy.
• Procedures requiring catheter tray extension.
• Procedures requiring lateral/longitudinal float, or lateral tilt and height adjustment.

A well-designed imaging table will provide the needed support for all other medical procedures in your facility, so they are well worth the investment.

Best Surgical Tables

The benefits of quality surgical tables are endless-  they will be durable, reliable, and long-lasting. Reduced repairs or replacement could save your hospital a lot of money in the long run as well. 

However, good-quality surgical tables don’t need to be expensive. It’s all about return on investment- so look for the features and specifications you’re getting for the price paid.

Ultimately, you’ll want to prioritize the table that gets you the best results and delivers ultimate patient comfort. Minimizing any risk of errors is essential, as is versatility, ease of use, reliability, and accessory capabilities.

Finding the Right Equipment for Your Needs

 Finding the right surgical table doesn’t need to be complicated. Considering important factors such as budget, use, patient demographics, and features so should help you make the decision.

Referring to an experienced and reliable supplier will be key to finding the right surgical table. Here’s what you should be looking for when partnering with a medical equipment provider:

• They should have many years of experience, with knowledge of industry standards and the latest technological advancements.
• They should have a wide variety and range of surgical tables so you can pick the one tailored to your hospital’s needs.
• They should have competitive pricing.
• They should have exceptional customer service, so you can always reach out if need support.

Partnering with the right equipment supplier will help you outfit your operating room with the latest equipment.

 Want to learn more about surgical tables and everything they can do for your hospital? We have hundreds of options, suitable for every budget and medical need out there.

Contact Infinium Medical today to learn more about surgical tables. Check out our blog for reviews, comparisons, and much more information.