Abstract: An operating table, universally applicable for all types of operations, is based on a column (1) which constitutes a support for a two-part bed, with the parts "bed A" and "bed B", each of which is attached to its part of a ring (2) which can be rotated through 360.degree. in the horizontal plane in a bearing unit (3). The bearing unit (3) is arranged on a vertically rotatable device (14) on the supporting vertical column (1) which is designed so that the axis of rotation coincides with the patient's vertical centre of gravity. The patient can thus be rotated in the vertical plane. Thus the patient's rotations coincide with the patient's horizontal and vertical centre of gravity, enabling the patient to be rotated into the required position with a minimum of effort. It will thus be possible to gain access to the operating table from all sides, and there will be a choice between "bed A" and "bed B", with the patient lying on his stomach or on his back.