An operating room table looks simple until you list the cases it has to handle. A general surgery table that serves well for laparoscopic cholecystectomies may not suit a hip fracture, a bariatric patient or a case that needs a C-arm to image through the tabletop. For Dallas hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, the right OR table comes from the case mix, then the accessories, then the power system. This guide goes through each. OR tables are part of our new and refurbished medical equipment for sale.
Match the table to the case mix
| Case type | What the table needs |
|---|---|
| General and laparoscopic surgery | Wide Trendelenburg and lateral tilt range, flex and reflex, secure patient straps |
| Orthopedics and trauma | Fracture and traction attachments, radiolucent sections, the ability to remove or swap sections |
| Spine | Prone positioning frames or a dedicated spine top, radiolucency for C-arm imaging |
| Urology and gynecology | Leg sections or stirrups, lithotomy positioning, a drainage option |
| Bariatric surgery | A high weight capacity in all positions, wider top or extensions |
| Ophthalmology and ENT | Precise head positioning, a narrow head section and good clearance for the surgeon's knees |
| Vascular and hybrid procedures | A long radiolucent top with clear imaging range for fluoroscopy |
An ambulatory surgery center with one or two specialties can choose a table built for them. A hospital OR that handles everything needs a general table with a good accessory set, plus specialty tables for orthopedics or spine.
Weight capacity: read the fine print
A table's rated capacity often differs by position. The figure for a level table may be higher than for full Trendelenburg or with a section extended. Check the capacity for the positions you actually use, and for bariatric work choose a table rated well above your heaviest expected patient.
Imaging compatibility
If surgeons use a C-arm, the table top needs radiolucent sections where you image, and enough clearance under the top for the C-arm to reach. Metal frames, columns and some accessories block the image. Check the radiolucent area and the clearance with the C-arm you own. Our C-arm machines in Texas page covers the imaging side.
Power systems
- Electro-hydraulic: an electric pump drives hydraulic cylinders. Smooth and powerful, common on older and many current tables. Hydraulic fluid leaks and pump wear are the usual service issues.
- Electromechanical: electric motors and actuators move the sections. Often quieter and cleaner, with fewer fluid issues.
- Battery operation: most current tables run on battery so cords stay off the floor during cases. Check battery age and run time on any refurbished table.
- Manual backup: a manual override lets staff level or move the table if power fails mid-case.
Accessories make the table
A table is only as versatile as its accessories. Typical items include arm boards, a head positioner, leg sections and stirrups, lateral supports, a fracture or traction set, side rails, and a padded surface suited to long cases. Accessories are usually specific to the table family, so when buying refurbished, confirm what comes with the table and whether missing items are still available.
Pads and pressure injury
Long surgical cases put patients at risk of pressure injury. Pads should be intact, seamless and designed for OR use. Replace cracked or compressed pads, and consider gel or pressure-redistributing pads for long procedures.
Refurbished OR tables: what to check
- Every motion through its full range, under load, with no drift
- Hydraulic leaks, pump noise and response time
- Battery run time and charger
- Hand control and any backup control panel
- Brakes, floor locks and casters
- Pads and upholstery condition
- Accessories included and their condition
- Electrical safety test results and a written test report
Reconditioned tables from us come with a 90-day warranty. Our surgical table repair guide explains the common failures and when repair stops making sense.
Daily checks for staff
Before the first case, staff should confirm the table moves through its main positions, the brakes lock, the battery is charged and the hand control responds. Any drift, unusual noise or slow movement should be reported before a patient is on the table.
Questions to ask before you buy
- Which case types will the table handle, and which accessories do they need?
- What is the weight capacity in your most extreme positions?
- Where is the table radiolucent, and does your C-arm fit under it?
- Is it electro-hydraulic or electromechanical, and how old is the battery?
- Which accessories are included, and are parts still available?
Delivery and service in Dallas–Fort Worth
For in-stock tables, delivery and setup can usually be scheduled the same day across Dallas–Fort Worth, timed around your OR schedule. Once in service, tables need preventive maintenance on the manufacturer's schedule. Service requests receive a response in under 8 business hours, Monday through Friday, with same-day on-site support from our Garland headquarters.
To match an OR table to your case mix, call (469) 767-8853 or send us a request with the procedures you perform.
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