In spine surgery, the right positioning equipment can make a significant difference—not just for surgical access, but also for patient safety and surgical outcomes. As a surgical equipment manufacturer, we often ask, “Should I use a Wilson Frame or a Jackson Table?”Based on surgeon feedback and our own field experience, here’s a practical comparison to help guide your decision.
What Is a Wilson Frame?
The Wilson Frame is a popular attachment used with a standard operating table, designed to support patients in a flexed prone position. It is widely used for lumbar decompressions, microdiscectomies, and short-duration spinal procedures.
Common Features:
● Radiolucent pads for intraoperative imaging (X-ray, C-arm).
● Adjustable flexion angle to optimize spinal exposure.
● Lightweight and portable, easily mounted on existing tables.
● Cost-effective for hospitals and clinics with budget constraints.
“In outpatient spine centers, we see Wilson Frames used almost daily—they’re quick to set up and perfect for 1-2 hour lumbar cases.” — Clinical Nurse, OR Coordinator, Zhejiang
However, it's worth noting that abdominal compression is harder to avoid, which may increase venous pressure and bleeding in longer cases.
What Is a Jackson Table?
The Jackson Table (also known as the spinal surgery table or modular frame table) is a specialized system built exclusively for spine procedures. Instead of relying on pad support, it suspends the patient with four posts, allowing full decompression of abdominal organs.
Advantages at a glance:
● 360° radiolucency for intraoperative imaging (fluoroscopy, navigation).
● Minimized intra-abdominal pressure, reducing epidural bleeding.
● Rigid stability for long and complex surgeries (e.g., scoliosis, deformity correction).
● Modular configuration: cervical, thoracic, or lumbar frames can be switched in seconds.
“In multi-level fusions or tumor resections, I wouldn’t consider anything else. The Jackson gives me a stable field and better visibility.” — Dr. Li, Spine Surgeon, Suzhou No.1 Hospital
Of course, it requires more space and a bigger investment in cost and training.
Wilson Frame vs Jackson Table
Key differences between the two systems:
| Feature | Wilson Frame | Jackson Table |
| Stability | Moderate, adequate for short cases | High, ideal for long or complex surgeries |
| Imaging access | Good (partial radiolucency) | Excellent (360° radiolucency) |
| Abdominal decompression | Limited | Excellent |
| Common use | Single-level lumbar decompressions | Complex thoracic/lumbar reconstructions |
| Setup | Quick, attaches to a standard table | Dedicated table, requires setup |
| Cost & logistics | Lower cost, easier to transport | Higher cost, needs training |
How Should You Choose?
✅ Choose Wilson Frame if:
● You perform primarily short, single-level lumbar cases.
● Budget, space, or mobility is a top concern.
● Your OR already uses universal operating tables.
✅ Choose Jackson Table if:
● You specialize in deformity, trauma, or multi-level spine procedures.
● You use intraoperative CT or navigation.
● Patient safety, blood loss control, and surgical precision are top priorities.
From a Manufacturer’s View
At Medik, we design surgical tables that integrate with both positioning systems. Some of our clients pair our radiolucent operating table with a Wilson Frame for mobile use, while larger hospitals opt for a full Jackson-style spinal frame for precision alignment.
Our philosophy is simple:
Better care, better comfort. Whether it’s a compact frame or a full modular table, patient safety and surgeon convenience remain our top priorities.
References
1. Kwon B, Kim DH. “Spinal Operating Tables and Positioning.” Seminars in Spine Surgery, 2012;24(3):140–146.
2. Hall A et al. “Effect of Surgical Positioning on Intra-Abdominal Pressure and Blood Loss.” Spine, 2009;34(14):E544–E548.
3. Fessler RG, Prabhu SS. “Surgical Approaches to the Spine.” Neurosurgery Clinics of North America, 2007;18(2):211–219.
