The enlisted 0R specialist assigned to circulate for an operation is
responsible for assisting with the positioning of the patient. Therefore, he must have a
detailed knowledge of the table as well as the many positions of the patient for surgery.
A full discussion of the operating table, attachments, and use are set forth in Subcourse
MD0927, Special Surgical Procedures I.
Figure 1-7. Operating table.
1-13. SURGICAL INSTRUMENT TABLES
a. Mayo Stand. See figures 1-8, 1-11, and 1-12. This stand or table is small,
and its height is adjustable. It is designed to overhang the operating table and hold
instruments and other sterile items for immediate use and within easy reach of the
scrub. The tray upon which the sterile goods are placed is detachable so that is may be
sterilized for use during an operation.
b. Large Tables for Instruments. See figures 1-9, 1-10, 1-11, 1-12, and 1-13).
The largest table for instruments used in the OR is the angular or "L"- shaped
table. The table provides an area where additional sterile supplies for the case
can be arranged and stored until needed. If the number of supplies to be used does not
require the use of the angular table, a smaller rectangular table is used. Both the
angular table and the smaller rectangular table are often referred to as "back" tables.
The "back" table is placed within easy reach of the scrub and is draped with sterile
drapes for use during an operation. (See Figure 1-10.) There is also an undraped
angular instrument table (back table).
MD0923
1-16