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
- 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
- Omayalachi CON, Manual of Nursing Procedures and Practice, Vol 1, 3 Edition 2023, Published by Wolters Kluwer’s, ISBN: 978-9393553294
- Sandra Nettina, Lippincott Manual of Nursing Practice, 11th Edition, January 2019, Published by Wolters Kluwers, ISBN-13:978-9388313285
- Adrianne Dill Linton, Medical-Surgical Nursing, 8th Edition, 2023, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323826716
- Donna Ignatavicius, Medical-Surgical Nursing: Concepts for Clinical Judgment and Collaborative Care, 11th Edition ,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323878265
- Lewis’s Medical-Surgical Nursing, 12th Edition,2024, Elsevier Publications, ISBN: 978-0323789615
- AACN Essentials of Critical Care Nursing, 5th Ed. Sarah. Delgado, 2023, Published by American Association of Critical-Care Nurses ISBN: 978-1264269884.
- 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/
Stories are the threads that bind us; through them, we understand each other, grow, and heal.
JOHN NOORD
Connect with “Nurses Lab Editorial Team”
I hope you found this information helpful. Do you have any questions or comments
