What is this ring like structure called used in OT
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donut head ring OT operating theatre positioning aid surgical
This is a Head Ring / Donut Ring (also called a Head Donut or Doughnut Positioner).
Head Ring (Donut Positioner)
What it is: A toroidal (donut-shaped) padded ring, typically made from foam, gel, or cloth-wrapped padding. In the image, it appears to be a fabric/cotton-wrapped ring in the surgical green color, which is the traditional hand-made version common in many hospitals.
Purpose in the OT:
- Head stabilization - cradles and stabilizes the patient's head during surgery to prevent rolling or shifting
- Pressure redistribution - the ring design offloads pressure from the back of the skull (occiput), reducing the risk of pressure injury during prolonged procedures
- Prone/supine positioning - used in both supine (face up) and prone (face down) positions
- Pediatric and adult use - available in different sizes for neonates, children, and adults
How it works:
The hollow center of the ring allows the back of the head to sit without direct point pressure, while the surrounding ring supports the head circumferentially. This is especially important in long surgeries where pressure necrosis of the scalp can occur.
Common names you may hear:
- Head ring
- Donut ring / Doughnut ring
- Head donut
- Surgical head positioner
- OT head rest ring
The green fabric version in the image is a linen/cotton-wrapped foam ring, often made in-house by OT staff and autoclaved for reuse - very commonly seen in hospitals across South Asia and similar settings.
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