Abstract: A patient lifting table includes upper and lower platforms with a connecting scissors linkage mechanism providing straight upward and downward movement of the upper platform. The scissors linkage mechanism has first and second link arms pivotally connected at intermediate portions and which form an X when extended. The lower end of one of the link members has a bell crank arm extending therefrom and situated on the underside of the lower platform. An extensible and retractible ram is also mounted generally below the lower platform and is pivotally connected to the bell crank arm whereby operation of the ram causes the link members to swing relative to each other and cause the upper platform to raise and lower. All of the ram and bell crank assembly is mounted below the generally planar, obstruction free upper surface of the lower platform for ease of cleaning, thereby making the lifting table particularly suited for hospital and veterinary operations.