Which parts of the OR table are removable for procedures with legs in stirrups?

• A. Head point and footboard
• B. Arm board and side rails
• C. Table top
• D. Base plate

Answer: (A)

When a patient is positioned with legs in stirrups, you need clear space at both ends of the table to accommodate the leg supports and to give access to the perineal area as well as to the head and airway region. The parts of the table that are designed to be removed to achieve this clearance are the head section (head point) and the footboard. Removing the head section frees space around the head and neck for anesthesia management, monitoring leads, and any headrest or supports used during surgery. Removing the footboard eliminates a potential obstruction at the foot end and makes it easier to position the legs in stirrups without interference from the table. The other components—arm boards, side rails, the table top, and the base plate—generally remain in place because they provide essential stability and access that aren’t required to be removed for stirrup positioning.