Preparation of Operation Table

Definition

An operation table is a table like surgical equipment on which a patient lies during a surgical procedure. It is also known as a surgical table or operation table.

Settings for Usage of Operating Table

It is generally used for performing surgery within an OR or surgical suite of a

• Hospital
• Ambulatory surgery center
• Other healthcare facilities

Types

There are several types of operation tables designed to meet the specific needs of various surgical procedures.

1. General Surgical Tables

• Versatile and adjustable for a wide range of procedures (e.g., abdominal, cardiovascular, pediatric).
• Features include height adjustment, tilt, and modular sections.
• Often used in multi-specialty operating rooms.

2. Orthopedic Tables

• Designed for bone and joint surgeries.
• Equipped with traction devices, leg holders, and radiolucent tops for imaging.
• Allows precise limb positioning for procedures like hip replacements or fracture repairs.

3. Radiolucent Imaging Tables

• Built for fluoroscopy and minimally invasive procedures.
• Entire table surface is X-ray transparent, enabling real-time imaging.
• Common in vascular, endoscopic, and pain management surgeries.

4. Gynecology and Urology Tables

• Tailored for OB/GYN exams, deliveries, and urological procedures.
• Includes leg stirrups, split-leg design, and drainage systems.
• Often used in clinics and maternity wards.

5. Neurosurgery Tables

• Designed for cranial and spinal surgeries.
• Offers head fixation systems, precise tilt, and stability.
• Compatible with microscopes and neuronavigation systems.

6. Bariatric Surgical Tables

• Built to support obese patients, with higher weight capacity.
• Wider surface and reinforced structure.
• Used in bariatric and general surgeries.

Purposes

• To perform cardiothoracic, orthopedic, bariatric, robotic, urological, or other surgical procedures.
• To position the patient appropriately for easy access and visualization of the surgical site.
• To ensure comfort and safety of the patient during the surgery.

Preparation of Operation Table.

Factors to be considered in preparing the surgical table are the following:

• The patient’s overall condition.
• Length of the procedure.
• Techniques to be used during the procedure.
• Required exposure at operative site (it must be completely transparent to X-rays or other forms of radiation).
• Expected anatomical and physiological changes associated with anesthesia.
• Should achieve accurate position through easy operating mechanisms.

1. Environmental Setup

• Position the table centrally in the operating room with adequate space for staff movement.
• Lock the wheels to prevent unintended movement.
• Ensure overhead lighting and surgical equipment are properly aligned.

2. Cleaning and Disinfection

• Wipe down the entire table surface with hospital-grade disinfectant.
• Pay special attention to joints, rails, and padding.
• Allow surfaces to air dry before placing sterile drapes.

3. Functional Check

• Test height adjustment, tilt, and segment articulation (head, back, leg sections).
• Confirm radiolucency if imaging will be used.
• Ensure power supply or hydraulic systems are operational.

4. Accessory Setup

• Attach necessary arm boards, leg holders, or traction devices based on the procedure.
• Secure anesthesia screen and instrument trays as needed.
• Confirm padding and straps are in place to prevent pressure injuries and ensure patient stability.

5. Final Safety Check

• Verify weight capacity and patient positioning requirements.
• Ensure sterile drapes and linens are ready.
• Communicate with the surgical team for any special positioning needs.

Guidelines for Setting Up the Operating Table

• The operation table must be dusted and carbolized along with other equipment in the OR at least 30-60 minutes prior to opening the sterile supplies to prevent contamination.
• Check the table for proper functioning of all parts by pneumatic/electrical or manual operation.
• Adjust the height of the table based on the surgical procedure.
• Ensure that all table segments are also adjustable.
• Ensure that the OR focus light is directed onto the operating table for maximum visibility.
• Tilt the table to required angle, if necessary.
• Fit the required accessory parts such as arm board and leg supports to position the patient appropriately.
• An X-ray mat is placed on the operating table from the buttock plate to the headrest when permitted or required by the surgical procedure.
• Place the required gel mat on the table for safe positioning of the patient.
• Spread the reusable/disposable sheets over the table and smoothen the fold to ensure that it is wrinkle-free.
• Place other essential positioning aids such as pads, rolls or, wedges to keep the patient’s body in a neutral position.

REFERENCES

1. Annamma Jacob, Rekha, Jhadav Sonali Tarachand: Clinical Nursing Procedures: The Art of Nursing Practice, 5th Edition, March 2023, Jaypee Publishers, ISBN-13: 978-9356961845 ISBN-10: 9356961840
2. Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
3. Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwers, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
4. Adrianne Dill Linton, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 8th Edition, 2023, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323826716
5. Donna Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Clinical Judgment and Collaborative Care, 11th Edition ,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323878265
6. Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323789615
7. AACN Essentials of Critical Care Nursing, 5th Ed. Sarah. Delgado, 2023, Published by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses ISBN: 978-1264269884.
8. Ernstmeyer K, Christman E, editors. Nursing Fundamentals [Internet]. 2nd edition. Eau Claire (WI): Chippewa Valley Technical College; 2024. PART IV, NURSING PROCESS. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK610818/

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