In orthopedic surgery, the operating table is also known as an orthopedic traction table, consisting of two parts: the surgical table and the traction frame.
Common orthopedic surgical tables are made of either stainless steel or carbon fiber, with carbon fiber models also known as C-arm specific surgical tables. These are particularly suited for various orthopedic surgeries involving C-arm devices.
Carbon fiber composite materials are characterized by high strength, low density, and extremely low X-ray absorption rates. In the field of medical radiology, carbon fiber composites are often used as the surface material with a foam core in a “sandwich” structure, supporting patients while ensuring high X-ray transmission rates. Compared to traditional table surfaces, carbon fiber medical panels offer advantages in X-ray transmission, image clarity, strength, and rigidity.
The diagnostic accuracy of medical imaging devices such as C-arm X-ray machines and CT scanners is closely related to the X-ray transmission capability of the medical table surface. Medical panels with high X-ray transmission rates can reduce radiation dosage, thereby lowering radiation exposure for both patients and medical staff. At the same time, clear imaging ensures diagnostic accuracy.
The parameter used to measure the X-ray transmission rate of medical panels is the aluminum equivalent. The lower the aluminum equivalent, the better the X-ray transmission. The aluminum equivalent of carbon fiber surgical tables is only 11% of that of aluminum alloy panels. Even carbon fiber foam core panels used as medical table surfaces have an extremely low aluminum equivalent. Furthermore, the elements in carbon fiber resin composites are C, H, and O, which absorb very little X-ray, ensuring the high X-ray transmission rate of carbon fiber medical panels (which can exceed 97%).
Besides transmission rate and surface strength, the longevity of the medical surgical table must also be considered. Carbon fiber is a non-metallic material with low electrochemical activity, excellent corrosion resistance, and, during procedures, is not susceptible to damage from alcohol, medications, or bloodstains, while also meeting sterile medical requirements. Additionally, it can bear heavy weights and withstand repeated use.
Therefore, carbon fiber surgical tables are often considered the “golden partner” of C-arms and are widely used in orthopedic surgeries, especially in complex procedures involving orthopedic surgical robots.
