Which type of OR table is used for procedures when the patient is in the prone position?

Which type of OR table is used for procedures when the patient is in the prone position?

• A. Wilson frame
• B. Stryker table
• C. Flat table
• D. Adjustable table

Answer: (A)

When a patient is positioned prone, the goal is to support the chest and pelvis while allowing the abdomen to hang free. This improves ventilation and reduces intra-abdominal pressure, and it also helps stabilize the body for a posterior surgical exposure. The Wilson frame is specifically designed for prone positioning. Its contoured ridges cradle the chest and pelvis while leaving the abdomen unsupported, which promotes better breathing and venous return. This setup also distributes pressure more evenly and helps maintain proper alignment of the spine and the operative area, providing stable access to the posterior surface. Other options lack this targeted design: a flat table doesn’t contour to the body and can increase pressure points; an adjustable table is versatile but not specialized for prone positioning; a Stryker table can be used for multiple positions but the classic, widely taught method for prone procedures is the Wilson frame because of its anatomy-friendly support and airway-friendly setup.

When a patient is positioned prone, the goal is to support the chest and pelvis while allowing the abdomen to hang free. This improves ventilation and reduces intra-abdominal pressure, and it also helps stabilize the body for a posterior surgical exposure.

The Wilson frame is specifically designed for prone positioning. Its contoured ridges cradle the chest and pelvis while leaving the abdomen unsupported, which promotes better breathing and venous return. This setup also distributes pressure more evenly and helps maintain proper alignment of the spine and the operative area, providing stable access to the posterior surface.

Other options lack this targeted design: a flat table doesn’t contour to the body and can increase pressure points; an adjustable table is versatile but not specialized for prone positioning; a Stryker table can be used for multiple positions but the classic, widely taught method for prone procedures is the Wilson frame because of its anatomy-friendly support and airway-friendly setup.