OPERATING TABLES

Operating Table: A Complete Overview

Last updated: May 2026

We Operate So You Can^®

An operating table, also known as a surgical table, is a purpose-built surface designed for performing operations in a hospital or medical setting. Understanding the key features and available configurations helps facilities make informed purchasing decisions.

Key features to know

Modern operating tables offer a wide range of adjustability options to accommodate diverse surgical procedures:

Height adjustment (hydraulic or electric)
Lateral tilt and Trendelenburg positioning
Radiolucent table tops for intraoperative imaging
Weight-rated models including bariatric configurations
Hand control, foot pedal, or combination operation

💡 Buying tip: Always verify that a refurbished operating table has been tested to manufacturer specifications and includes a documented service history before purchasing.

Types of operating tables

Different surgical specialties require different table configurations. General surgery tables offer broad versatility, while specialty tables are optimized for orthopedic, neurology, cardiovascular, or ophthalmology procedures.

Major manufacturers

The leading operating table manufacturers include Amsco (Steris), Maquet (Getinge), Skytron, and Mizuho OSI. Each brand offers distinct model lines suited for different surgical specialties and facility budgets.

New vs. refurbished

Refurbished operating tables can represent savings of 40-60% below new list price while delivering equivalent clinical performance when sourced from a reputable vendor with proper biomedical certification.

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