A Historical Analysis on Surgical Tables from Ancient to Present

How did surgeries take place during ancient and medieval times across the world? Were surgical tables used during those times? Ancient Indian physician Sushruta described in his book 1,120 types of ailments, how to diagnose, and their cure. Sushruta live over 3000 years ago. He was the first surgeon in the world to perform plastic, cataract, and various other surgeries. Photographs of Sushruta conducting cataract surgery feature a low-bed as operating table. Over time, operating tables have seen a change.

In Europe, more of operating chairs compared to the operating tables, were used for surgical procedures during the eighteenth century. The most prevalent surgeries during that time was related to the removal of bladder stones, called lithotomy. The complexities prevailed in terms of safety, as operating chairs were not suitable for the surgical procedure. With time, surgical tables incorporated with adjustable backrests to hold the patient in a semi-vertical position, were developed. The tables facilitated the surgeons to also restrain the arms and hands of the patients.

Were the operation theatre tables of the 18th-20th century made of steel like that of the present? In ancient and medieval times, wood was the material used to produce the OT tables and chairs. Wood remained in use until the 20th century. The tables looked more like benches, but gradually accessories were added to the benefit of both the surgeon and the patient. These accessories included backrest, adjustable legs, waterproof covering, footrest, straps for restraining the hands and legs, etc.

With the design and invention of the modern surgical tables where stainless medical grade steel is used, the healthcare industry has seen a ray of hope. Today’s OT tables not only provide ease to surgeons facilitating smooth surgical procedures but also add to the comfortability of the patients. Almost every hospital in the world that has a unit for surgical procedure comes equipped with all modern amenities and facilities and operation theatre table is the core feature of an operating room.

Manufacturers across the world have come up with innovative models of surgical tables. In the current competitive scenario where every player is committed to deliver the best, Koinaa Medical Equipments has emerged as a leader in India in this segment. This organization manufactures a varied range of OT tables for different surgical procedures. The firm also manufactures OT lights and examination lights.

“We leave no stone unturned to ensure that what we manufacture is only the best. We have a trained team of R&D experts, quality control officers, and technology experts who work together to innovate newer designs and incorporate advanced technology according to emerging demands and requirements of hospitals across the world,” utters the debonair Mrs. Anamika Sinha, Director, Exports, Koinaa Medical Equipments.

Surgical tables manufactured by Koinaa Medical Equipments are available in varieties of hydraulic, electric, and more models. These are used in hospitals across the world in departments encompassing Gynecology, Imaging, Opthalmology, Neurology, Orthopedics, Gastroenterology, etc. Made-in-India OT tables are making a mark in the international market. And this trend is here to stay!