The operating table is the centerpiece of the operating room (OR). Consider the needs of your medical, dental, veterinary, or scientific practice as you shop for an operating table. This could include the types of operations you conduct and the special features your OR needs to have. The right operating table for your practice should meet the unique needs of both the professional staff and the patient. Here are some specific things to look for when purchasing an operating table:
Functionality
The operating table should be designed with adjustable height, tilt, and positioning features. It should accommodate a range of surgical procedures, from minor to major surgeries. Look for a versatile and flexible table with a wide range of settings and options that professionals can adjust to suit different patients and procedures. Tables with multiple sizes, colors, and accessory options can be customized to meet your practice’s needs.
Good operating tables should also be designed to accommodate a variety of surgical specialties. Specialized tables can include features like radiolucent tops for imaging procedures or bariatric weight capacities for larger patients.
Find a table made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use. It should support heavy loads without buckling or collapsing and resist corrosion and rust. Operating tables should also be easy to clean and maintain, with no crevices or hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Comfortability
Consider the comfort of the patient and operating team when purchasing a new table. The operating table should provide maximum comfort for the patient with features such as adjustable headrests, armrests, and leg supports. It should be designed to minimize pressure points and provide adequate support to prevent discomfort during extended operations. For the surgical team, the table must provide easy access to the patient with ample room for equipment and personnel.
If your facility frequently regularly conducts extended operations, consider features like extra padding, safety straps, and headrests. These features increase patient safety and comfort during a lengthy procedure. The table should have sufficient padding to support the patient’s body, particularly in the head, back, and legs. Padding must be firm enough to support the patient’s body but soft enough to be comfortable. The table should be able to accommodate patients of different sizes and shapes. This helps guarantee all patients are as comfortable as possible during procedures.
Patient comfort can also be improved by providing additional amenities like heating, cooling, or massage functions to your practice’s table. These features can help reduce patients’ anxiety, helping them feel more comfortable and relaxed during the procedure and improving the procedure’s outcome.
Safety
Safety is a top priority in any surgical setting, and the safety of the operating table is no exception. The table should provide maximum safety for the patient with features such as adjustable side rails, straps, and restraints to prevent falls or other accidents during operations. Look for a table made to minimize the risk of infection with features such as easy-to-clean surfaces and antimicrobial coatings.
An easily maneuverable table, with details like lockable casters and a lightweight design, is helpful within a hospital as it can be easily transported through doorways and elevators.
Safe tables should allow easy and simple patient access and have features like adjustable tilt and height to suit various staff and procedural needs. Find tables built with features like adjustable armrests and foot pedals to lessen the need for repetitive movements and reduce fatigue and strain on surgical teams.
A safe table must be sturdy enough to hold the patient’s weight and any additional equipment or instruments required for the surgery. Before purchasing, check the table’s weight capacity against your patient demographic’s average weight, including the weight of the equipment used during your procedures, to make sure the table can handle the load.
Find the Right Operating Table for Your Facility Today
The best table for you ultimately depends on your practice’s specific needs and circumstances. Research and determine which features matter most to you and your patients. Consider your budget, any specialization options, and the overall comfort of patients and staff when picking a table. The right table can make all the difference in the success of a surgical procedure, so find yours today.
