Abstract: A neutral field tray includes a base with a width that tapers from a proximal end to a distal end, and an instrument trough at least partially recessed relative to the base and sized and configured to support at most a single surgical instrument. The trough is obliquely oriented relative to the base so as to present the proximal end of the instrument substantially above the base and to shield a sharp of the instrument within the trough. The tray also includes supporting structure for supporting the tray relative to a supporting surface.

Abstract: A neutral field tray includes an attachment portion for removably attaching the tray to a mayo stand, a base coupled to the attachment portion, two sidewalls extending upward from opposite sides of the base, a distal endwall extending upward from a distal end of the base, a cover extending between the sidewalls above the base adjacent the distal endwall, and support for positioning a single instrument above the base with a distal end of the instrument underneath the cover and a proximal end of the instrument elevated relative to the distal end of the instrument. A method is also provided for using the neutral field tray.