Quick answer
Choose an OT table by the surgeries you perform: a hydraulic table suits general surgery, an electric table makes frequent repositioning easier, a C-arm compatible table is needed for intra-operative imaging, and an orthopaedic attachment is needed for traction. For lighting, ceiling-mounted double-dome LED lights suit major OTs, single-dome or stand-mounted lights suit minor OTs and procedure rooms.
The OT table and the operating light are the two most important pieces of furniture in any operation theatre. Both need to suit the types of surgery you perform, the size of the room, and your budget. This guide covers the main choices.
Part 1: Choosing an OT table
Hydraulic vs electric
| Hydraulic OT table | Electric OT table | |
|---|---|---|
| Height adjustment | Foot-operated hydraulic pump | Motorised, via hand control |
| Positioning | Manual levers and cranks | Motorised positions at the press of a button |
| Power needed | No | Yes (usually with battery backup) |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Best for | General surgery, smaller hospitals, minor OTs | Busy OTs, longer surgeries, frequent repositioning |
See the Hydraulic OT Table and Electric OT Table.
Speciality OT tables
- C-arm compatible: if you use a C-arm for X-ray imaging during surgery (orthopaedics, urology, some general procedures), the table must let the C-arm image the patient. See the OT Table with C Arm.
- Orthopaedic attachment: for fracture surgery that needs traction and limb positioning. See the OT Table with Orthopedic Attachment.
What else to check
- Tabletop: stainless steel (SS 304) tops resist corrosion and stand up to repeated disinfection.
- Sections and positions: head, back, seat and leg sections, plus Trendelenburg, reverse Trendelenburg and lateral tilt, as your surgeries need.
- Stability: a heavy base and reliable floor locks.
- Accessories: arm boards, anaesthesia screen, lithotomy leg holders and body straps.
Part 2: Choosing an OT light
Ceiling-mounted vs stand-mounted
- Ceiling-mounted lights keep the floor clear and position easily over the table. They're the standard choice for main OTs. They need a ceiling that can support them, so plan installation before the false ceiling is finished. See the OT Light Celling Mount Single Dome and OT Light Celling Mount Double Dome.
- Stand-mounted (mobile) lights need no installation, can be moved between rooms, and suit minor OTs, procedure rooms and labour rooms. See the OT Light Stand Mount.
Single dome vs double dome
A double-dome light has two light heads, so when a surgeon's head or hands block one, the other still lights the site. That means fewer shadows in deep or long procedures. A single dome is usually enough for minor surgery and smaller rooms.
LED lighting
Modern OT lights use LEDs: they give bright, focused light with much less heat on the surgical team and patient, use less electricity, and last far longer than halogen bulbs. Check that the light head moves smoothly and stays where you put it.
Quick recommendations
| Setting | OT table | OT light |
|---|---|---|
| Major / general OT | Electric or hydraulic | Ceiling-mounted, double dome |
| Orthopaedic OT | Orthopaedic attachment; C-arm compatible | Ceiling-mounted, double dome |
| Minor OT / day surgery | Hydraulic | Single dome (ceiling) or stand-mounted |
| Procedure or dressing room | Examination table or couch | Stand-mounted or Examination Light |
Completing the OT
Don't forget a Surgeon Chair, Mayo Trolley, SS IV Stand with wheel/without Wheel, a Suction Machine with Glass Jar, and sterilisation with an Auto Clave with Automatic Timmer. Browse all OT Equipment, or our Derma Chairs, or see Equipment Checklist for Setting Up a New Clinic or OPD for the rest of the facility.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a hydraulic and an electric OT table?
A hydraulic OT table is raised and lowered with a foot pump and positioned with manual controls; it needs no electricity and costs less. An electric OT table adjusts height and positions with motors at the press of a button, which is faster and easier during long or complex surgeries.
What is a C-arm compatible OT table?
It is an OT table designed so that a C-arm X-ray machine can image the patient during surgery. It is needed for orthopaedic and other procedures that rely on intra-operative imaging.
Should I choose a single dome or a double dome OT light?
Choose a double dome for major OTs and long or deep procedures, because the second light head reduces shadows. A single dome is usually enough for minor OTs and procedure rooms.
Ceiling-mounted or stand-mounted OT light?
Ceiling-mounted lights keep the floor clear and are standard for main operation theatres. Stand-mounted lights need no installation and can be moved between rooms, making them ideal for minor OTs and procedure rooms.
Need help choosing?
Our team in Pune can recommend the right equipment for your patient or facility, and we deliver across India.
