Operating table – does the height of the tabletop affect the ergonomics of work?

Average value of the minimum tabletop position

Based on an analysis carried out by a Polish medical equipment manufacturer, the average value of the minimum height position of a tabletop without a mattress is 633 mm. An analysis of the technical data of 58 models of operating tables from all over the world, which according to Famed Żywiec are most common on the market, was used to determine that value. The tops of the most advanced operating tables can be placed even below 600 mm, e.g., Famed OPTIMA 5.20 (550 mm)[1]. Why is it so important?

Operating table for laparoscopic surgery

A study on the ergonomics of the work of surgeons performing procedures involving laparoscopic access found that in more than 95%[2] of cases, the tabletop was positioned too high[3]. In simulated operations, the volunteers were given laparoscopes and used operating tables with a fictitious tabletop at an angle of 20°, 30° and 40°. The volunteers had their hands blocked with the elbow joint at a 90° or 120° angle. The distance of the fictitious abdominal wall from the floor was measured. The minimum value recorded was just 30 cm and the maximum was 60.5 cm. However, it should be remembered that the size of the mattress and the patient’s body must also be added to that value. In addition, the study showed that a high tabletop makes it easier to incise the skin with a scalpel. With this in mind, we know why it is very common lately for the operating tables to be equipped with a height adjustment option using a remote control.

The Famed OPTIMA operating table features a low-positioned tabletop and double-abducted leg supports, allowing for further reduction of the surgical field height – down to 40 cm.

Operating table with an appropriate minimum tabletop height parameter

Similar studies have shown that an operating table with a low top improves the work comfort of surgeons. Twenty-one surgeons took part in the study and the results were confirmed by statistical data from EMG. The signal from the right shoulder and quadriceps muscles was measured[4]. The conclusion of the study was the need to redesign operating tables to offer lower minimum tabletop positioning values. A modernised operating table would improve the comfort of the work of surgeons and medical staff. Moreover, a study conducted in cooperation with surgeons showed how important an operating table with an appropriate minimum tabletop height parameter was.

An operating table with a low top makes it possible to perform spine surgery in the posterior access on a mattress or in an upright frame.

Height-adjustable operating table ensures comfort and safety at work, regardless of a surgeon’s height

The operating tabletop, located at a height of 550 mm from the floor, not only supports the correct posture of the surgeon but also enables shorter people to work safely. A low operating table eliminates the need to use platforms, which pose a serious risk of falling. Getting rid of the platform also allows for the safe positioning of footswitches for diathermy units and other devices located on the floor. A low positioning of a tabletop is particularly important when people with obesity are placed on the table. Obtaining optimal access to the body of an obese patient requires low positioning of the tabletop. A low tabletop also enables working while sitting, which is necessary during some procedures in the field of gynaecology, urology, ophthalmology or neurosurgery. The modern precision surgery table makes it possible to adopt a comfortable position during many hours of surgical interventions.

An operating table designed for performing craniofacial surgeries in a seated position.