What are the average specifications and measurements of operating tables, and is there any variation?
Various models and styles of operating tables will have different overall specifications and measurements. Typically most tables will be between 79 and 83 inches in length with widths of 19 to 20 inches or wider with specific types of surgical needs. Surgical tables can also range in specifications as to how high or low they can be elevated. Most will range between 31 and 41 inches, which provides enough range for most doctors and medical staff to be very comfortable even when performing longer duration surgical procedures.

Other specifications will also vary from table model to model. Some offer more or less range of motion in the Trendelenburg features, the lateral tilt, the back rest adjustment and the head section adjustment. Since there is a variation it is essential to consider the specifications of each table model as they related to your specific requirements for surgical procedures.

Are there a range of accessories that are standard with operating tables and does this vary by model and price?

As a general statement, the more expensive and state of the art that the operating table is, the more accessories are built in and come with the specific model. In addition there may also be a greater range of additional accessories that can be purchased separately. Typically, most operating tables will include a head rest, shoulder and arm supports, arm boards, stirrups and leg rests. Additional accessories on the more deluxe models can include clamps, lateral supports and anesthesia screens. Choosing an operating table that has the accessories that you need is a time and cost saving factor and also allows you to have all the equipment you need.

What are the typical features that are essential to consider when choosing operating tables for a general surgical theater?
Most medical facilities have several features that they have to consider when choosing surgical tables. The most important feature is usually the flexibility of the table to allow surgeons to complete a variety of procedures. This means that the table has a range of positioning and movement possibilities that don't limit the types of procedures that can be done using the table. The other major consideration for most facilities is the overall cost of the table. This is always a factor that is viewed in combination with the overall versatility of the table. A hospital or clinic may be able to get more for their budget by choosing a more expensive state of the art table that will allow a greater number of surgical procedures.

The specific operation of the table may also be an essential consideration. Some medical staff may prefer a manual hydraulic table over a electric table since the movement for the patient can be smoother and more easily controlled. Split leg design or single leg rest component is also an important factor if the table is to be used for a variety of different types of operations and medical procedures.

What accessories can be used on medical tables to secure patients and provide safety when the table is in use?

There are several different options when it comes to adding accessories to medical tables. The types of accessories that are selected are often a combination of the types of patients that are seen in the medical facility or practice, along with the requirement of the physician and medical staff. Common accessories for general family practices and OB/GYN examination rooms include ankle stirrups, which come in a variety of styles and models. They are usually universal and can be used with any type of table plus they have several different adjustments including lateral movement and length.

Arm boards are another accessory that is very practical in working with a range of patients. Accessory rails, which run down the length of the table and can be raised or lowered are idea for providing extra security and safety for patients. Some models of tables will require a factory install, this is most common on the power tables as opposed to the traditional manually operated types of tables. Accessory drawers, safety straps, pillows, wedges and cabinet features under the table itself are all possible in many different styles of medical tables.

What storage options are available on medical tables?

Saving space in the examination room is always a big consideration in any medical facility. There are several ways that medical tables, at least some models, can help out with this problem. Several of the bariatric or standard styles of tables offer a full cabinet under the table. This provides a solid, dependable table with various combinations of cabinets and drawers. The cabinets feature adjustable shelves for larger materials and supplies, including additional pillows, accessories and medical equipment. Drawers are perfect for smaller equipment, frequently used examination supplies and other types of materials. These types of tables usually have a laminated finish to the cabinet and drawer area that can be ordered to meet your examination room color scheme.

Open shelving can also be another option to consider under an examination or treatment table. The open shelves can be used to store non-medical types of supplies such as blankets or other types of frequently used equipment. It is important to keep in mind that open shelving doesn't offer as much storage potential as this area will be open to patients as well as medical staff.

Is it important to have an adjustable backrest with medical tables?

Selecting a medical table that has an adjustable backrest does provide greater options for increasing patient comfort during any type of examination process. The adjustable backrest can be either a power type of model that is operated by hand or foot controls, or it can be a manual adjustment. Both are equally effective for the patient but it is important to keep in mind that most manually adjusted backrests have to be fully raised to be disengaged and lowered, which may create some difficulty for medical staff with adult patients with limited mobility.