For smaller hospital facilities or for operating rooms that also may have to double as other patient care rooms, portable surgical tables are a great idea. These tables are designed to be easy to move, with large, heavy wheels that provide a smooth and vibration free movement, allowing staff to easily relocate and position the table. There is also a locking mechanism that secures these surgical tables into a stationary position, providing a very solid and secure table for both staff and patient. Generally the portable surgical tables will have the same features as a stationary table including the Trendelenburg positions, lateral tilt and even split leg options with a plus or minus 90 degree range of motion and positioning. However the portable tables may not have quite the height elevation adjustment to ensure a secure and stable base. Generally the height elevation on a portable surgical table will be between 28 and 35 inches, while on stationary surgical tables the elevation can adjust to 31 to 41 inches. How are surgical tables typically positioned and elevated? As with most types of medical equipment there are several different options for designs and mechanisms in surgical tables. One of the most common methods of moving the table up and down or elevating the table with or without the patient on the table is a manual hydraulic pump system. This type of system works similar to other hydraulic cylinders and provides a very smooth, even and non-jarring type of movement. The pressure in the hydraulic cylinder that causes the elevation or lowering of the table is controlled with a foot pedal, typically located under the head section of the table. This provides maximum control of the height positioning of the table, perfect for even a very fine adjustment to meet the staff's needs or to allow the table to be used with specific types of equipment. The hydraulic pump and cylinders are located within the central column of the table, protected from damage by the column itself. The movement of the various sections of the table including the leg section and the head section is usually controlled by a series of handles that are located on the sides of the tables. Like the hydraulic lifting system these adjustments work on a mechanical manual system, allowing for very detailed positioning and adjustments of the various parts of the table for patient comfort and surgical needs. What is the warranty on surgical tables? Surgical tables are often a very large expenditure and they are very durable and built to last. As with most types of medical equipment there are manufacturer's warranties on each table model with variations between brands and types. For most tables the manufacturer's warranty will cover the complete table from frame through to hydraulic pump and mechanical systems for up to one year. This is the same for both the stationary standard styles of surgical tables as well as the portable models.