An adjustable table column (1) for an operating table, comprising a column base (2) for placing the table column (1) on a floor, a height-adjustable column shaft (3) with a stationary column shaft base (24), and a column shaft stem (40) that can be moved up and down relative to the column shaft base, a connection unit (10) for connecting a patient support surface to the table column (1), wherein the connection unit (10) is pivotable in relation to the column shaft stem (40), and a cable routing device (4) for carrying at least one power and/or data cable (5) along the column shaft stem (40) during its up and down movement, wherein the cable routing device (4) comprises an articulated push rod (11) which can transmit pushing and pulling forces. The upper end (17) of the push rod (11) is mechanically connected to the connection unit (10), and its lower end (18) is mechanically connected to the column shaft stem (40), such that the at least one power and/or data cable (5) adjusts its position accordingly when moving the connection unit (10).