Description:

The Ritter 404 has been the archetypal primary-care table since the 1980s, built around a welded steel frame that supports 300 lb without hydraulic cylinders or electrics. A gas-assist backrest adjusts from flat to an 82 ° seated position with one hand; the pelvic lift tilts to +5 ° for gynecologic examinations, and a pull-out foot section extends overall length from 54 in to 72 in. Two deep side drawers swap left- to right-hand opening in minutes, while an 18 in retractable front step helps smaller patients climb aboard the 31.75 in-high top. Infinite-position stirrups slide 14 in on four lateral detents and stow beneath the upholstery. The leg extension hides a stainless removable debris pan and 21-in paper roll holder. Upholstery lifts off four corner posts for re-covering, and vinyl seams are inverted to shed disinfectant. At 290 lb the table is heavy enough to stay put during wheelchair transfers, yet rolls on optional casters when renovating a suite.

Economic Advantage:

With zero motors or control boards, the Ritter 404’s only consumables are paper and upholstery, giving it a 20-year median service life—double that of power tables. Clinics regain floor space by storing supplies in the built-in drawers instead of separate carts, and the universal 27-in width lets one upholstery kit cover every room, trimming inventory.