OT Table With Ortho Attachment: Turning a Standard Table Into a Fracture Table

What an orthopaedic traction attachment does

A traction or ortho attachment is a set of components fitted to the table end or rails that lets the surgical team hold and pull the limb in a controlled way. Typical elements include a foot or boot holder, a traction mechanism, a perineal post and leg supports. Together they turn an operating table into a fracture table suited to hip and femur procedures, reduction of fractures and certain joint cases.

This is the core of many orthopaedic table accessories, and it should be chosen alongside the table rather than as an afterthought. See our general guide to operating table accessories for the wider picture.

Compatibility: the first thing to verify

Attachments connect through the table's rails or a dedicated interface at the leg end. Rail standard, clamp type, load capacity and the way the leg section is removed or lowered all matter. An attachment designed for one manufacturer's table may not fit another's. Ask the supplier to confirm in writing which attachment models are approved for the specific table you are buying.

Check also that the traction forces are within the table's rating, and that the safe working load of the table remains valid when the attachment is fitted. The Smarter Practico lists a safe working load of 280 kg in all directions including slide, and the Grand Promerix lists 275 kg; ask both to be confirmed with traction in place.

• Approved attachment models for your table
• Rail standard and clamp type
• Load rating with traction applied
• How the leg section is removed or lowered
• Locking and release mechanism

Imaging, access and radiolucency

Fracture work depends on fluoroscopy. The table needs a slim base and a longitudinal slide so the C-arm can reach the hip or femur from both views, and the attachment should keep metal parts out of the image field. Smarter Practico has a 390 mm longitudinal slide and 360-degree C-arm access, and Grand Promerix lists a 410 mm shift with improved C-arm access.

Request drawings or a demonstration showing the C-arm in position with the attachment fitted. A mock set-up with your own surgeons and radiographers is the best test.

Ergonomics, set-up time and storage

A good attachment installs quickly with minimal tools, so the table can switch between a general list and an orthopaedic list within the turnaround. Ask how long fitting takes, whether one person can do it and how the attachment is stored when not in use. Orthopaedic accessories are bulky, and a dedicated trolley or wall rack protects them and speeds set-up.

Also consider cleaning: look for smooth surfaces, minimal crevices and parts that tolerate your disinfectants.

Document the approved set-up for each procedure with photographs and a short written guide. When the team changes, a clear record of how the table, attachment and C-arm are arranged makes the first case with a new nurse far smoother.

Buying advice

Ask for the attachment in the quotation, with price shown separately from the table, plus training for theatre staff and spare parts. Confirm product registration with the relevant UAE authority. Compare ot table with ortho attachment price by looking at what is included, not only the total.

To see which attachments are compatible with the tables we supply, request a consultation from Beckfinity and our specialists will prepare a compatible configuration for review. For the table choice itself, see our guide to the orthopedic operating table.