How to Purchase a Orthopedic Table

1) Ensure that the table will meet all of your positioning needs for the procedures that it will be used for.

2) Also consider some additional factors: reliability of the table, replacement pad availability, durability of caster locking mechanisms, low maintenance, ease of cleaning and disinfecting the table and its accessories, protection of mechanisms from corrosive fluids, sufficient power cord length, and service record of the manufacturer.

3) Note the minimal positioning for operating tables and orthopedic tables: from the horizontal plane 25° in the Trendelenburg position, 25° in the reverse Trendelenburg position, and 18° in the lateral tilt position.

4) All orthopedic tables should consist of at least three sections: A table back section, which at minimum should position- +55° to -25° from the horizontal plane. A table foot/leg section, which should position +20° to -40° from the horizontal plane. And a table head section, which should position +45° to -90° from the horizontal plane.

5) Other essential components for tables include: a side rail, a load limit of at least 159 kg, a hand or foot operated remote control, arm boards, shoulder braces, stirrups, leg holders, counter supports, and a radiolucent tabletop.

6) The operating beds should be C-arm accessible, and accept 35 × 43 cm x-ray cassettes.

7) There are several accessories used to position and stabilize the patient, such as arm boards, shoulder braces, stirrups, leg holders, and counter supports. These can usually be obtained from operating table manufacturers.

8) For both remanufactured and new tables, cleaning the hydraulics is important. Users should follow manufacturers' guidelines in this matter. To remove debris, oil, and water, manufacturers suggest periodically replacing the filters.

9) Lately, operating tables that are compatible with accessories from several manufacturers have been developed.