What are Medical Table Called?

Feb 21, 2025

Have you ever wondered what the tables at the doctor’s office or hospital are called? These tables are super important in healthcare because they help doctors and nurses take care of patients. But did you know they have different names depending on what they’re used for? Some are called examination tables, some are operating tables, and others are treatment tables. Knowing these names helps people understand their purpose and choose the right one.

Picture yourself at a doctor’s appointment. The table you sit or lie on is made to be comfortable and easy to use. But that’s just one kind of medical table. In surgeries, tables need to adjust to different positions to help doctors and patients. Imaging tables are built to work with machines like X-rays and MRIs. Each type of table has a specific job that helps doctors do their work and keeps patients comfortable.

In this article, we’ll talk about the common names of medical tables, explain what each type is used for, and show why they’re so important. Whether you’re just curious or need to learn more for school or work, we’ve got you covered. Let’s explore the world of medical tables together!

What Are Medical Tables Called?

Medical tables are important tools used in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare places. They help doctors and nurses take care of patients, but their names change depending on what they’re used for. Simply put, a medical table is designed to support patients during check-ups, treatments, surgeries, and other medical procedures. The name of each table usually describes what it’s made for.

For example, examination tables sometimes called exam tables are found in doctor’s offices. They are padded to keep patients comfortable and can adjust to different positions during check-ups. Surgical tables, also known as operating tables, are used in operating rooms. They can be adjusted to help doctors perform surgeries more easily.

Transfer tables, like stretchers or gurneys, are used to move patients safely around hospitals. Treatment tables, used in physical therapy and chiropractic clinics, are designed to make treatments more comfortable. Other types include tilt tables, which help with certain medical tests, and overbed tables, which patients use for eating, writing, or holding medical supplies while in bed.

Even though these tables might sound similar, each one is made for a specific purpose. Knowing the differences helps doctors and nurses choose the right table, making sure patients are comfortable and get the best care.

16 Different Types of Medical Exam Tables

Medical tables play a crucial role in healthcare settings, each designed for specific tasks and patient needs. While they may appear similar, their features and functions are unique, tailored to different medical procedures. Let’s explore the main types of medical tables, providing a true and fair view of their design, uses, and importance.

Examination Tables: Examination tables, also called exam tables, are found in clinics and doctor’s offices, providing a comfortable surface for patients during physical exams and consultations. They typically have padded cushions and adjustable sections. Manual exam tables are adjusted by hand, while power exam tables use electric motors for smoother adjustments, making them ideal for patients with mobility challenges. Bariatric exam tables are built with reinforced frames and wider surfaces to support heavier patients, and pediatric exam tables are smaller, often decorated with fun themes to help children feel more at ease.
Operating Tables: Operating Exam tables, also known as surgical tables, are essential in operating rooms. They offer advanced adjustability, including height, tilt, and segment adjustments, ensuring that surgeons can position patients correctly for various procedures. Orthopedic tables come with traction devices for bone and joint surgeries, while neurological tables support the head and spine during delicate brain and spinal procedures. These tables are often made with radiolucent materials, allowing X-rays to pass through for imaging during surgery.
Treatment Tables: Treatment tables are used in physical therapy clinics, chiropractic offices, and massage therapy studios. They provide comfort and support during extended treatments and often feature adjustable sections to help therapists position patients correctly. Some treatment tables come with specialized attachments, such as traction devices for spinal treatments, enhancing therapeutic effectiveness.
Imaging Tables: Imaging tables also known as c arm table are designed to work with diagnostic machines like X-rays, CT scanners, and MRIs. They are made from radiolucent materials to allow clear imaging without interference. X-ray tables are flat and sturdy, MRI tables are narrow and non-metallic to prevent interference with magnetic fields, and CT tables are motorized to move patients smoothly through the scanner.
Transfer Tables: Transfer tables, including stretchers and gurneys, are designed to safely move patients within healthcare facilities. They often feature sliding mechanisms and adjustable heights to make transferring patients easier and more efficient.
Emergency Tables: Emergency tables are portable, lightweight, and foldable, making them ideal for quick assessments and treatments in emergency rooms. Their design allows for rapid deployment during critical situations.
Procedure Tables: Procedure tables or Procedure chair are compact and easy to clean, designed for minor treatments like suturing, wound care, and injections. They often include built-in trays for holding medical tools and supplies.
Obstetric or Gynecological Tables: Gynecologist chair or Gynecologist table are equipped with stirrups and adjustable sections, providing the necessary support for childbirth, pelvic exams, and gynecological procedures. Their design ensures both patient comfort and accessibility for medical professionals.
Dental Chairs: Dental chairs are specifically designed for dental procedures, offering reclining features and built-in trays for dental tools. They also include suction devices to maintain a clean environment during treatments.
Autopsy Tables: Found in morgues and pathology labs, autopsy tables are made of stainless steel with drainage systems for fluids. Their smooth, non-porous surfaces make them easy to sterilize, ensuring hygienic conditions during post-mortem examinations.
Bariatric Tables: Bariatric Exam tables are built with reinforced frames and wider surfaces to support heavier patients. Their high weight capacities and sturdy construction help ensure patient safety and comfort.
Pediatric Tables: Pediatric Exam tables are designed to reduce anxiety in young patients. They are smaller in size and often feature colorful designs and playful themes to create a more welcoming environment.
Tilt Tables: Tilt tables are used for diagnostic tests and mobility assessments. Their motorized systems allow gradual tilting, helping doctors evaluate conditions like fainting and balance disorders.
Orthopedic Tables: Orthopedic Exam tables are specialized for bone and joint procedures. They include traction devices to hold limbs in place and provide stable support during surgeries.
Urology Tables: Urology tables are designed for urinary tract procedures. They often have stirrups and drainage systems, ensuring optimal patient positioning and fluid management.
Ophthalmic Tables: Opthalmic Exam Chair are used for eye exams and surgeries, ophthalmic tables feature adjustable headrests and mounts for microscopes, ensuring precision and patient comfort.

Each type of medical table is meticulously designed to meet specific clinical requirements, ensuring comfort, safety, and efficiency for both patients and healthcare professionals.

What is the difference between an examination table and an operating table?

Aspect	Examination Table	Operating Table
Primary Use	Routine check-ups, diagnostics, minor procedures (e.g., vaccinations, pelvic exams).	Surgical procedures, requiring sterility and precision.
Environment	Clinics, GP offices, outpatient settings.	Operating rooms (ORs) in hospitals or surgical centers.
Adjustability	Basic adjustments (height, backrest tilt, stirrups).	Highly adjustable (head, torso, legs independently movable; Trendelenburg position).
Patient Security	Rarely includes restraints.	Equipped with straps, padding, or limb supports for immobilization.
Accessories	Storage drawers, disposable paper covers, basic tools (e.g., blood pressure cuffs).	Compatible with surgical tools (anesthesia screens, armboards, imaging equipment).
Material & Sterility	Upholstered with vinyl or padding; cleaned with disinfectants.	Non-porous, easy-to-sterilize materials (e.g., stainless steel).
Size & Portability	Compact, sometimes portable, designed for small rooms.	Larger, heavier, and integrated into ORs with surgical equipment.
Cost & Complexity	Affordable, simple mechanics.	Expensive, advanced hydraulic or electric controls, compliant with surgical standards.

What Materials Are Medical Tables Made Of?

Medical tables are built using materials chosen for their durability, hygiene, and ability to support both patients and healthcare professionals. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring the table can withstand daily use while maintaining safety and comfort. Let’s break down the materials commonly used in different parts of medical tables and understand why they’re essential.

Structural Frame

The frame is the foundation of a medical table, designed to support various patient weights and maintain stability.

Stainless Steel: Known for its corrosion resistance and strength, stainless steel is commonly used in surgical tables and examination tables due to its durability and easy sterilization.
Aluminum: Lightweight yet sturdy, aluminum is often found in portable and adjustable tables, making them easier to move without sacrificing stability.
Powder-Coated Carbon Steel: This material is strong and durable, with a protective coating that resists scratches and enhances hygiene.

Tabletop Surfaces

The surface of a medical table must be both comfortable for patients and easy to clean.

High-Pressure Laminate (HPL): Durable and resistant to chemicals, HPL is frequently used in examination tables.
Thermoplastics (Polyethylene, Polypropylene): Lightweight, moldable, and resistant to disinfectants, thermoplastics are ideal for procedural and imaging tables.
Stainless Steel: Surgical tables often feature stainless steel tops due to their sterility and resilience.
Carbon Fiber: Commonly used in imaging tables, carbon fiber is radiolucent, meaning it doesn’t interfere with X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.

Padding and Upholstery

Comfort is key when patients are lying on a medical table, especially during extended procedures.

High-Density Foam: Provides cushioning that reduces pressure points, ensuring patient comfort.
Medical-Grade Vinyl and Polyurethane: Waterproof, non-porous, and easy to disinfect, these materials cover the foam padding, maintaining hygiene while offering a soft surface.
Antimicrobial Fabrics: Treated with coatings like silver ions, these fabrics help prevent microbial growth, improving safety in healthcare environments.

Specialized Components

Certain parts of medical tables are designed with specific functions in mind.

Radiolucent Panels: Used in imaging and surgical tables, these panels allow clear imaging without interfering with diagnostic equipment.
Rubber or Polyurethane Casters: Found on mobile tables, these wheels allow smooth movement while protecting floors from damage.
Epoxy Resins and Coatings: Provide chemical and abrasion resistance, making tabletops more durable and easier to clean.

Why Material Choice Matters?

The materials used in medical tables are carefully selected to meet the needs of both patients and healthcare providers. Stainless steel and carbon steel ensure strength and longevity, while lightweight aluminum improves portability. Non-porous surfaces like vinyl and laminate are essential for maintaining hygiene, as they prevent bacteria from accumulating. Additionally, materials like carbon fiber are critical in imaging settings, allowing healthcare professionals to capture clear diagnostic images without interference.

By combining durability, hygiene, and patient comfort, these materials help medical tables withstand the demands of healthcare environments, ensuring both safety and efficiency.

What are the Features and Functions of Medical Tables?

Medical tables play a big role in helping both patients and healthcare professionals. Like AngelUS Medical offer refurbished models from trusted brands like Midmark Ritter, ensuring quality without the high cost. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these tables essential in healthcare settings.

Key Features of Medical Tables are:

Adjustability: One of the best things about medical tables is that they can adjust in height, tilt, and position. This helps patients feel comfortable and makes it easier for healthcare professionals to do their jobs without bending or straining. Some tables have electric or hydraulic systems that make these adjustments smooth and easy. Plus, certain models can tilt into special positions like Trendelenburg, where the patient’s head is lower than their feet, which is often used during surgery.
Stability and Durability: Medical tables need to be sturdy and reliable. They’re built using strong materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, which can support heavy weights and last a long time. Many tables also have wheels that can lock in place, making them easy to move but stable when needed. Safety features like side rails and quick-release mechanisms help keep patients secure during procedures.
Easy to Clean: Keeping things clean is super important in healthcare. Medical tables are made with materials that are easy to wipe down, like stainless steel and high-pressure laminate. The padded areas are covered with waterproof, tear-resistant vinyl or polyurethane, so they stay clean and comfortable. The smooth surfaces and simple designs also mean there are fewer places for germs to hide.
Designed for Comfort: Patients spend a lot of time on medical tables, so comfort matters. High-density foam padding helps reduce pressure points, making long procedures more bearable. Some tables even have heated cushions or gel pads to help patients stay warm and relaxed. Plus, built-in supports like armrests and headrests help people stay comfortable during exams and treatments.
Special Features for Different Needs: Different procedures need different tools, and medical tables are designed with that in mind. Gynecological tables have adjustable stirrups, surgical tables often have removable sections for better access, and imaging tables are made from radiolucent materials like carbon fiber that allow X-rays and other scans to pass through. Many tables also come with extras like IV poles, instrument trays, and built-in scales.
Built-in Technology: Modern medical tables often come with advanced technology that makes them easier to use. Touchscreen controls and memory presets let healthcare providers adjust the table quickly and accurately. Some tables even connect to hospital systems, allowing for better coordination and efficiency during procedures.

What are the Core Functions of Medical Tables?

Helping Patients Get Comfortable: Medical tables are designed to help patients feel comfortable and supported during exams, treatments, and surgeries. With adjustable height and tilt settings, patients can be positioned just right, making it easier for doctors and nurses to do their work.
Making Healthcare More Efficient: Height-adjustable tables help reduce strain on healthcare providers, so they can work more comfortably and efficiently. Tables with wheels can be moved easily between rooms, making patient transfers quicker and smoother. Built-in storage compartments and accessory attachments also help keep tools within reach, so healthcare professionals can focus on their patients.
Keeping Things Clean and Safe: Medical tables are designed to make cleaning quick and easy. Non-porous surfaces and antimicrobial coatings help prevent the spread of germs, while seamless designs reduce cleaning time. Safety features like side rails and straps keep patients secure during procedures, and quick-release mechanisms allow for fast adjustments in emergencies.
Supporting Different Procedures: From childbirth and physical therapy to diagnostic imaging and surgery, medical tables are built to handle a wide range of tasks. Imaging tables, for example, are made from materials that allow X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to pass through without interference.

Surgical tables can be adjusted to give doctors better access during procedures, while gynecological and urology tables offer specialized support for exams and treatments.
Medical tables are essential tools in healthcare. Their adjustable, ergonomic design helps patients stay comfortable while allowing healthcare providers to work more efficiently. With features that support safety, hygiene, and advanced medical procedures, these tables play a key role in delivering high-quality care every day.

Why Are Medical Tables Essential in Healthcare?

Medical tables might seem like simple pieces of equipment, but they play a crucial role in healthcare. Whether it’s for routine check-ups, imaging, surgeries, or rehabilitation, these tables help both patients and healthcare providers in ways that often go unnoticed. Let’s explore why they’re so essential and what people are saying about their importance.

Ensuring Patient Comfort and Safety: Medical tables are designed with features that help patients feel comfortable and safe during exams and procedures. Cushioned surfaces and ergonomic designs help reduce discomfort, while adjustable height and tilt settings make it easier for patients to get on and off the table. This is especially important for elderly patients and those with limited mobility. Built-in safety rails and straps provide added security during surgeries and other procedures. As one patient shared online, “Having a comfortable exam table made a huge difference during my check-up I didn’t feel anxious at all.”
Supporting Accurate Diagnoses and Effective Treatments: Accurate positioning is essential for medical procedures and diagnostic tests. Medical tables can be adjusted to different angles, making it easier for doctors to access specific areas of the body. For example, surgical tables often have removable sections that allow surgeons to operate with precision. Imaging tables, made from radiolucent materials, ensure that X-rays and other scans are clear and accurate. As one healthcare professional noted, “Using an adjustable table during imaging means we don’t have to reposition the patient as often, which saves time and improves accuracy.”
Enhancing Efficiency for Healthcare Providers: Medical tables are designed to make life easier for healthcare professionals. Height-adjustable tables help doctors and nurses work comfortably without bending or straining, reducing the risk of injury. Quick adjustments and built-in controls save time during procedures, while lockable wheels make it easy to move tables between rooms. This efficiency is crucial in busy hospitals, where every second counts. A nurse shared, “Having a table that adjusts to the right height makes a big difference I can focus on the patient without worrying about my posture.”
Promoting Hygiene and Infection Control: Maintaining cleanliness is essential in healthcare settings. Medical tables are made from non-porous materials like stainless steel and high-quality polymers, which are easy to clean and disinfect. Seamless surfaces prevent bacteria from accumulating, reducing the risk of infections. While some online discussions question the use of paper rolls on exam tables, others point out that the paper provides a sense of cleanliness for patients, especially when thorough cleaning between appointments may not always be guaranteed.
Adapting to Different Medical Needs: Medical tables come in various designs to suit different healthcare needs. Surgical tables have removable sections and advanced positioning features, while rehabilitation tables offer adjustable heights and attachments for therapy exercises. Imaging tables are designed to support diagnostic equipment, and obstetric tables include stirrups and adjustable backrests for childbirth and exams. This versatility ensures that healthcare providers can deliver the best possible care in any situation.
Real-World Examples and Feedback: Healthcare professionals and patients alike recognize the importance of well-designed medical tables. For example, emergency rooms rely on reinforced tables that can handle trauma cases, while imaging suites use motorized tables to position patients accurately for scans. One healthcare worker shared, “When transferring a patient into an MRI machine, having a stable and adjustable table is essential it makes the process smoother and safer.”

Medical tables are more than just furniture they’re essential tools that support patient care, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and improve workflow efficiency. With features that prioritize comfort, safety, and hygiene, these tables play a key role in delivering high-quality healthcare. Whether in a doctor’s office, hospital, or rehabilitation center, medical tables help ensure that both patients and healthcare providers have the best possible experience.

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