Types of Operating Room Tables for OR Planners

What is an operating table called, and what does it do?

People use many names for the same device: operating table, surgical table, operation theatre table, OT table or OR table. All describe an adjustable table that supports the patient, allows the surgical team to position the patient safely and gives access for imaging, anaesthesia and the operative field. Manufacturers then add descriptors such as general, multi-purpose, orthopaedic or day-surgery.

A regular operating room table is usually a multi-purpose table with a back section, seat, leg sections and a head section, able to tilt and adjust in height. Specialty tables add features for particular disciplines.

Surgical table types by drive: manual and electric

The first split is the drive. Manual hydraulic tables, such as the Lojer Practico Manual, adjust height hydraulically and move the back, leg, tilt and Trendelenburg functions mechanically with gas-spring assistance. Its stainless steel top is built for demanding climates. Electric tables, such as the Smarter Practico, use motors, a hand control and memory positions, and run from the mains with battery support.

A manual table suits sites where simplicity and power independence matter. An electric table suits busy multi-discipline theatres where repeatable positions save time. Our note on manual hydraulic tables covers the first group in more depth.

Types by surgical discipline

Multi-purpose tables cover general surgery, gynaecology and urology. Orthopaedic and trauma tables add a sliding radiolucent top and traction accessories. Spine tables support prone positioning with open frames. Bariatric tables are rated for heavier patients and have a more robust column. Neurosurgical tables work with head fixation. Ophthalmic and plastic surgery tables put emphasis on stability and head access.

Not every discipline needs a separate table. Modular designs let one base serve several disciplines by swapping sections and accessories.

• General or multi-purpose: broad range of positions
• Orthopaedic and trauma: radiolucent top, traction
• Spine: prone positioning, open frames
• Bariatric: higher rated load, stable column
• Day surgery: fast turnover, trolley-style transfer

Fixed, mobile and trolley-style tables

Fixed tables are anchored to the floor, whereas mobile tables roll on castors and are moved between theatres. Most modern tables are mobile with floor locks. A third category combines table and trolley. The Lojer Rapido is a hydraulic all-in-one table and trolley for day surgery, used for pre-induction, transport, operation and recovery, and it comes in Standard and Upper Body models.

This type shortens patient transfers, which helps turnaround in day-surgery units, but it has a lower load rating than heavy-duty tables.

Finally, remember that table type is only one decision. Mattress, accessory rails, floor locks and controls differ between models of the same type, and those details affect daily use as much as the headline category does.

How to pick the right type

Match the table to your case mix, imaging use, heaviest patients and service capability. Ask for the safe working load in all positions, accessory compatibility and local service support. Confirm the product's registration with the UAE authority and review IEC 60601-1 and the operating-table particular standard declarations.

If you are unsure which type fits your theatres, Beckfinity's specialists can review your case mix and propose options from the Lojer range.

A simple comparison table helps: drive type, safe working load, top slide, radiolucent zones and five-year service cost for each candidate.