8 Operating table accessories for your operating theatre

Is your facility looking to expand its operating theatre capabilities? Depending on the type of surgery your OR may perform, there are several operating table accessories that may be beneficial to your OR.

Here is our list of some of the most beneficial operating table accessories for your OR.
1. Arm plate - The arm plate is probably one of the most important pieces of positioning equipment you will use during your surgery. Simple in design and function, the arm plate provides vital positioning support.

2. Clamps - Clamps are a very basic but essential accessory. This is because many other accessories, such as stirrups, arm plates, anaesthetic screens, etc., are fixed to your table with clips. You may need two basic types, depending on what you are attaching - flat blades and columns.

3. Restraint straps - it is very important to avoid accidents in the operating theatre. Patient safety is the number one priority and by securing them with restraint straps you can operate safely without the risk of them falling or being injured.

4. Anaesthetic screens - As outpatient surgery becomes more popular, patients are more likely to receive conscious sedation. Anaesthetic screens separate the patient's view from the surgical site, which protects them from any unpleasant effects. These screens also help to control infection.

5. Head support - Different procedures require different head positions. You should have a range of head supports to hand to cover the procedures performed at your facility. These may include attachable headrests, gel pads and/or cushions.

6. Arm and hand tables - If your facility performs many upper limb procedures, arm and hand tables are a must. They should be lightweight and imaging friendly.

7. Stirrups or other leg positioners - Comfortable, secure stirrups or other leg supports are an essential ally in many surgical procedures.

8. Knee brace - If your institution performs arthroscopic surgery, it is likely that 70% of the procedure will be done on the knee joint. Some of the factors surgeons look for in knee braces include how they operate, how stable they are during the procedure, whether they are lightweight, whether they conform to the patient's leg, whether they can be set up quickly and whether they minimise or eliminate pinch points.