Surgical back table

Types of surgical back tables

A surgical back table is a table set up behind the patient undergoing surgery. It is always stocked with instruments and supplies needed by the surgical team during the procedure. There are different types of surgical back tables, including:

• Orthopedic surgical back table

  Orthopedic surgeries usually involve a lot of instruments and implants. As a result, there needs to be enough space to accommodate all the required supplies. An orthopedic surgical back table is specifically designed for orthopedic surgeries. It has a large surface area and is very sturdy to hold all the instruments, implants, and other supplies used during orthopedic procedures. The table can also be adjusted to provide better ergonomics for the surgical team.

• Electric surgical back table

  An electric surgical back table has several features that improve its functionality. The most important one is the table's ability to be raised and lowered electronically. This makes it easier to adjust the height of the table to suit different surgical situations. The adjustment can also be done quickly and with precision, allowing the surgical team to focus on the procedure. An electric back table also has storage drawers and integrated lighting to improve the working environment.

• Instrument surgical back table

  An instrument surgical back table is set up with all the instruments required for a specific surgical procedure. The instruments are carefully arranged to ensure efficiency and safety during surgery. The table is usually set up by a surgical technologist or nurse before the surgery begins. Once it is set up, the instruments remain sterile throughout the procedure. Having the instrument back table prepared and placed within reach of the surgical team minimizes the need to leave the sterile field, thus maintaining the integrity of the sterile field and reducing the risk of contamination.

• Custom surgical back table

  A custom surgical back table can be designed and manufactured to meet specific requirements. The tables can be customized to have particular dimensions, features, and accessories. For instance, a custom surgical back table can be fitted with extra storage space, electrical adjustments, or integrated lighting and communication systems. Custom tables can also be adapted for specific surgical specialties, such as orthopedic, neurosurgery, or cardiac surgery.

Specifications and Maintenance of Surgical Back Table

• Weight Capacity

  The surgical back table needs to have enough weight capacity to hold all back surgical instruments and supplies without tipping over. A good back table in surgery should have a weight capacity ranging from 200 to 500 pounds (91 to 227 kg).

• Dimensions

  The size of a surgical back table can affect its functionality in the operating room. A standard surgical back table has a length of 60 to 72 inches (152 to 183 cm), a width of 30 to 36 inches (76 to 91 cm), and a height range of 36 to 42 inches (91 to 107 cm). The height of the back table should be adjustable to accommodate different surgical teams' preferences.

• Mobility

  To ensure the surgical back table is mobile, it should have wheels or casters that can be locked to prevent unintended movement. The back table's wheels should be large enough to navigate the operating room without damaging the floor.

• Material

  A surgical back table should be made of stainless steel because it is a long-lasting material that can endure the rigors of the operating room. The material chosen for the back table should be easy to clean and resistant to corrosion and staining.

• Weight Capacity

  The surgical back table needs to have enough weight capacity to hold all back surgical instruments and supplies without tipping over. A good back table in surgery should have a weight capacity ranging from 200 to 500 pounds (91 to 227 kg).

• Dimensions

  The size of a surgical back table can affect its functionality in the operating room. A standard surgical back table has a length of 60 to 72 inches (152 to 183 cm), a width of 30 to 36 inches (76 to 91 cm), and a height range of 36 to 42 inches (91 to 107 cm). The height of the back table should be adjustable to accommodate different surgical teams' preferences.

• Mobility

  To ensure the surgical back table is mobile, it should have wheels or casters that can be locked to prevent unintended movement. The back table's wheels should be large enough to navigate the operating room without damaging the floor.

• Material

  A surgical back table should be made of stainless steel because it is a long-lasting material that can endure the rigors of the operating room. The material chosen for the back table should be easy to clean and resistant to corrosion and staining.

• Instrument Trays

  Many back tables have instrument trays to help organize surgical instruments and free up space on the table's surface. These trays may have different sizes and designs to accommodate various surgical procedures' needs.

• Adjustability

  Some surgical back tables are designed to be height adjustable. This feature allows the table to be adjusted to different surgeons' and surgical teams' preferred heights. This can improve ergonomics and reduce the risk of injury to the surgical team.

• Cleaning

  The surgical back table should be cleaned and disinfected before and after every surgical procedure to prevent the spread of pathogens and reduce the risk of surgical site infections. Cleaning involves using a damp cloth or sponge to remove visible dirt and debris from the table's surface. Disinfecting the back table involves using a chemical disinfectant approved for use in health care settings to eliminate pathogens on the table's surface and instrument trays.

• Inspections

  The surgical back table should be inspected regularly to ensure it operates optimally. The inspections should focus on the condition of the wheels, locks, and height adjustment mechanisms. Any damaged or worn parts of the back table should be replaced immediately to prevent accidents in the operating room.

• Load Management

  The weight capacity of the surgical back table should never be exceeded. Load management involves distributing the weight evenly across the table's surface and securing all instruments and supplies to prevent tipping.

How to Choose Surgical Back Tables

Choosing the right table for surgery requires understanding the needs of the surgical team and the type of procedure being performed. Here are some factors to consider:

• Load Capacity

  The surgical back table needs to support the weight of all instruments, supplies, and equipment required during the procedure. It must have a capacity that exceeds this amount to ensure safety and stability.

• Mobility and Maneuverability

  The surgical back table should roll easily and lock securely. Its height should adjust smoothly and quickly. These features facilitate the movement of the table within the operating room and allow prompt placement and repositioning during surgery.

• Ergonomics

  The surgical back table design should minimize the physical strain on the surgical team. It should allow the even distribution of instruments and supplies, enabling comfortable access without excessive reaching or bending. Adjustable height and positioning options further enhance ergonomics.

• Compatibility with Other Equipment

  The surgical back table should be compatible with other operating room equipment, such as anesthesia machines, surgical lights, and the surgical bed. Its size and design should facilitate the seamless integration of all components, ensuring an organized and efficient workspace.

• Hygiene and Infection Control

  The surgical back table must have surfaces that are easy to clean and disinfect, minimizing the risk of cross-contamination and infection. Consider tables with removable and washable covers, as well as smooth, non-porous materials that resist the accumulation of blood, bodily fluids, and other contaminants.

• Customization and Modularity

  Surgical back tables with modular designs and customizable features offer greater versatility. Consider tables with interchangeable components, such as trays, shelves, and attachments, as well as adjustable heights and positions to accommodate different surgical specialties and preferences.

• Stability and Vibration Damping

  During delicate and precise operations, stability is essential. Tables with stable bases, low centers of gravity, and vibration damping features minimize the risk of instrument displacement or accidents, ensuring the safety and success of surgical procedures.

• Budget and Value for Money

  While it is essential to consider the budget and the initial cost of the surgical back table, it is equally important to evaluate its long-term value. Consider aspects such as durability, maintenance requirements, and the equipment's potential to improve surgical efficiency and patient outcomes.

How to DIY and Replace Surgical Back Tables

The following steps provide a general guide on how to replace a surgical back table:

• Select a Suitable Replacement Table

  Choose a table that suits the needs of the specific surgery being conducted.

• Gather Necessary Tools

  Collect all tools that will be needed for disassembling the old table and assembling the new one.

• Safety Precautions

  Ensure that all safety measures are adhered to during the replacement process.

• Prepare the Area

  Clear the area around the table to have enough space for the replacement process.

• Disconnect the Old Table

  Carefully disconnect all connections and remove accessories from the old table.

• Assemble the New Table

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions to assemble the new surgical back table.

• Connect

  Once assembled, connected the new back table to the operating room's systems.

• Test Stability

  Ensure that the new table is stable and functional before any surgical procedure is carried out.

Q and A

Q: What is a back table in surgery?

A: A back table is a surgical instrument table placed behind the surgical table during operations. It allows the surgical team to organize and access instruments and supplies efficiently.

Q: What are the types of surgical back tables?

A: There are two main types of surgical back tables: the standard surgical back table and the padded surgical back table. The former has a plain surface, while the latter has padding for additional comfort and safety.

Q: What are the common materials used for surgical back tables?

A: Surgical back tables are typically made of stainless steel, laminate, or a combination of both. Stainless steel offers durability and easy cleaning, while laminate provides a softer, warmer surface.

Q: Are surgical back tables adjustable in height?

A: Many surgical back tables have adjustable height features to accommodate different procedures and preferences of the surgical team.