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What This Guide Helps With
This guide assists Clinical Engineering in troubleshooting a Skytron 6500 Series surgical table that drifts unintentionally or cannot maintain a set position. Symptoms may include:
- Table slowly lowering, raising, or tilting without user input
- Difficulty keeping lateral, Trendelenburg, or reverse Trend positions
- Unusual noises or jerky motion during adjustments
Focus is on external and easily verifiable checks before assuming internal hydraulic or control system failure.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Confirm Patient Safety and Table Load
- Ensure no patient is on the table.
- Remove all accessories or weight plates that may affect movement.
Why: Drift can be exaggerated under load; confirming an unloaded table isolates mechanical/hydraulic issues.
Check Power and Indicator Lights
- Verify the table is properly plugged in and breaker is on.
- Confirm main power indicator lights are steady and no error codes are displayed.
Why: Inconsistent power can cause control or drift behavior.
Inspect Foot and Hand Controls
- Disconnect and reconnect hand and foot pendants.
- Check for stuck buttons, damage, or moisture.
Why: A partially stuck or malfunctioning switch can send unintended movement signals.
Check Table Leveling and Casters
- Ensure floor surface is even and casters are locked.
Why: Unlevel support can create the appearance of drift when it is mechanical.
Inspect Hydraulic Lines and Connections
- Visually inspect under the table for leaks or loose fittings.
- Look for wet spots, worn hoses, or damaged seals.
Why: Hydraulic leaks reduce pressure and allow table segments to drift.
Test Individual Table Functions
- Cycle each motion (height, tilt, lateral, Trendelenburg) individually without load.
- Note if drift occurs in a specific axis or all motions.
Why: Isolating functions can indicate if the drift is system-wide or limited to one actuator.
Check for Environmental Factors
- Ensure temperature and room conditions are within manufacturer specs.
- Check for electrical interference or nearby equipment that could affect electronics.
If the Problem Persists
External and easily verifiable causes have been ruled out. Drift is likely due to internal hydraulic seals, cylinders, or control board issues.
- Remove table from service
- Label as Out of Service
- Send to qualified repair or bench evaluation
Knowing when to stop prevents further damage and ensures patient safety.
Clinical Use Tip
- Do not troubleshoot drift while a patient is on the table.
- Always move the patient to another table before performing tests.
- Confirm load and safety locks are engaged during evaluation.
Work Order Documentation (CCR Method)
CCR = Complaint, Cause, Resolution
Complaint
What was reported by the clinical staff.
Example:
“Table drifts when set in Trendelenburg position; cannot maintain height.”
Cause
What was observed during troubleshooting.
Example:
“No external issues found; hand controls and power verified; hydraulic lines visually intact.”
Resolution
What action was taken.
Example:
“Table removed from service, labeled Out of Service, sent for bench evaluation.”
Helpful Details to Include
- Verify outlet voltage and breaker condition
- Document hand and foot control response
- Note any unusual sounds or heat from hydraulic motors
- Final device status: Out of Service
Final Thought
Patient safety is paramount. Logical, stepwise troubleshooting prevents unnecessary risk and damage. When external causes are ruled out, escalate appropriately and document thoroughly. This preserves equipment life and ensures safe surgical care.
That is successful troubleshooting.