MAQUET has been the leading provider of equipment for use in operating theatres and intensive care units for over 165 years.

In 1840, MAQUET developed the first functional operating table. It was made completely from wood and was first used at the university hospital in Heidelberg. It was constructed in such a way that it could be used as an operating table and examination table, as well as an examination chair and for applying dressings.

Following nearly 70 years of research and development and the invention of the first operating table made from steel in 1890, MAQUET developed the HEIDELBERGER 3000, the first table with hydraulic height adjustment.

25 years later, the MAGNUS 6000 followed, an x-ray conducting operation table with an electromechnical drive.

In 1964, MAQUET designed the world's first operating table system. One can define an operating table system as an operating table with which the table top can be detached from the column and thus offers unique flexibility of application. The different table tops are perfectly designed for the requirements of surgery and enable extreme loads and allow complete x-ray conductivity.

The operating table system significantly influenced the architectural structure of the hospital in the operating theatre setting.

Through rational "patient movements" the operating table system supports the effective use of the operating theatre from an economic standpoint and thus has become firmly established in a modern surgical department.

The 1120 system has been sold globally 22,000 times in total.

The HEIDELBERGER 1130 with battery pack/mains operation followed 20 years later. It was controlled by a corded hand control which was later replaced by an infra-red transmitter.

In 1995, the ALPHAMAQUET 1150 system was developed. It offers an abundance of performance features which are tailored towards the requirements of our customers. It is an optimal "tool" for surgeons with functional requirements whereby the greatest value is placed on careful patient positioning. Furthermore, the ALPHAMAQUET system stands out through its great reliability and ease of use. Currently, 10,000 columns have been sold worldwide (as at April 2008).

In order to boost customers' confidence, MAQUET produced the ALPHASTAR 1132, a mobile operating table which can be equipped for any surgical discipline in no time at all. The ease of controlling and steering with the control unit are just part of the convenience attributes of the ALPHASTAR. Three further versions were developed in addition to the standard model for special requirements. The ALPHASTAR PLUS with a maximum patient weight of 450g is prepared in the best way possible for extreme situations.

The merits of ALPHAMAQUET and of ALPHASTAR led to the development of a further milestone, the ALPHAMAXX. A mix of the best characteristics of a mobile table and table system with maximum flexibility, maximum load capacity and maximum operating convenience.

A new class of convenience sets standards: The BETASTAR 1131 is the true universal operating table through its diverse usage options. Highest product safety and quality form the basis for safe, quick treatment of the patient.

The MAGNUS is a revolutionary world first from MAQUET. Like its historic predecessor the 1120 system, MAGNUS sets new standards with regard to patient positioning. With this operating table system, extreme adjustments like a 80° Trendelenburg tilt or 45° lateral tilt are possible. Likewise, a highlight is the pads: an expert mix of SFC and PUR can be used for decubitus prophylaxis and offers optimal patient comfort.