Tilt Table

What is a tilt table test?

The tilt table test checks to see how a change in position-from lying to standing-affects heart rate and blood pressure. Your doctor uses the test to try and reproduce your symptoms of syncope (fainting). There are many causes for syncope. One possible cause is a sudden slowing of the heart, combinad with a drop in blood pressure. This reduces the amount of blood flowing to the brain, and fainting can result.

During the test, the table is tilted up at a 60 to 80 degree angle to see if syncope occurs. The technician checks your blood pressure during the test to see if falling blood pressure causes syncope. The technician also does an electrocardiogram (ECG) during the test to see if an electrical problem is causing the syncope.

Depending on how you respond to the test, your doctor can decide:

• What kind of treatment can work for you
• Whether you need other kinds of tests

What can I expect?

Before your tilt table test you may be asked to undress and put on a hospital gown or sheet. You lie on a special table and an intravenous (IV) line is put into your arm. The IV delivers fluids and medications during the procedure. The technician puts a blood pressure cuff around your arm and often checks your blood pressure during the test. Patches called electrodes are put on your chest. The electrodes connect to wires on an ECG. The electrodes and ECG monitor your heart’s activity and the heart rate during the procedure.

The table can be quickly tilted from a flat to an upright position. For your safety, you are strapped to the table with safety belts. There is also a headrest and a footrest to keep you comfortable during the test. You are also closely monitored during the test.

The technician asks you to report any symptoms during the test. You might also be asked not to shift your weight or move your legs during parts of the test. The table then tilts up, usually at a 60 to 80 degree angle. The technician monitors your heart rate and blood pressure the entire time. In sorne cases your doctor presses on the carotid artery (in your neck), to see if that causes fainting. In sorne cases, medication given through the IV line speeds up your heart rate.