Obstetric Table and Accessories: Gynaecology OR Guide

What a gynaecology operating table must do

Gynaecological surgery moves between supine, lithotomy and Trendelenburg, often within one case. The table therefore needs a split or detachable leg section, a back section that adjusts, sufficient Trendelenburg range and secure accessory rails. Height range matters for surgeons who sit during vaginal procedures. Fast, repeatable movements from memory positions help turnover on busy lists.

Smarter Practico has memory positions including height, an endoscopic mode on the hand control and anti-collision smart movements. Scandia Prime provides four programmable memory positions plus a zero position, moving sections simultaneously.

Operating table for hysterectomy: open, vaginal and laparoscopic

For abdominal hysterectomy the patient lies supine, sometimes in Trendelenburg. For vaginal and laparoscopic-assisted approaches, lithotomy with leg holders is typical, often combined with steep Trendelenburg for the laparoscopic part. The table must tolerate combined movements without losing stability and must allow the surgeon to stand or sit between the legs. See our related guide on laparoscopic operating tables.

Plan the positioning sequence with the team in advance. A short routine, such as confirming leg holder height, padding, and the strap position before lifting the legs, reduces the risk of nerve compression and speeds up the change from supine to lithotomy. Also confirm that the head section and the pad arrangement allow the anaesthetist to maintain airway access in steep tilt.

Check the safe working load in the combined positions, not only flat. Smarter Practico lists 280 kg in all directions including slide, and Scandia Prime lists 250 kg, with a motorized Trendelenburg of 30 degrees.

Operating table for caesarean section and delivery

A caesarean section is usually performed supine with a degree of lateral tilt to displace the uterus, so a table with reliable lateral tilt and quick return to flat is important. Rapid emergency access to Trendelenburg and reverse Trendelenburg is also useful, as is a stable surface for a patient who may be transferred quickly. Check that the table height range allows comfortable transfer from a trolley.

The decision between a dedicated obstetric operating table and a general electric table depends on volume and space. A delivery operating table in the same suite as labour rooms may need extra mobility and easy cleaning between cases.

Accessories for gynaecology: leg holders, supports and pads

The essential accessories are leg holders or stirrups, a perineal drop or section for vaginal work, arm boards, shoulder supports for steep tilt and suitable pads. Choose leg holders for the length of procedure and nerve protection; our article on lithotomy stirrups and leg holders explains the options. Rails must accept your accessories: Scandia Prime provides full-length accessory rails and Practico Manual offers Euro, UK and US side rails.

Review also the broader list in operating table accessories, and plan for pads that suit lithotomy.

Common mistakes in gynaecology OR set-up

Many gynaecology set-up problems repeat from list to list. A short checklist solves most of them.

• Setting leg holders asymmetrically
• Raising or lowering the legs quickly or one at a time
• Neglecting to pad the contact points
• Choosing a table without enough Trendelenburg range or accessory rails

Choosing and next steps

For a high-volume gynaecology list, an electric modular table such as the Scandia Prime or Smarter Practico gives speed and flexibility. Rapido Standard is also suited to gynaecology and urology in day surgery. Define your procedures, patient weight range and imaging needs and ask Beckfinity for a demonstration; request a quote or consultation.