Tilt Table
Why
is the doctor performing this test?
 To determine why you are fainting (fainting
is also called syncope).
What
is the test?
Fainting
or syncope occurs by several different mechanisms. It is important to
determine the cause of the syncope to understand the risks and severity of
future fainting episodes. A tilt table can provide this information.
The
most common type of syncope is vasovagal syncope
due to an abnormal neurological reflex. While this cause of fainting can be
frightening to those who witness it, it is rarely life-threatening. People
with simple fainting experience a sudden drop in blood pressure, and/or heart rate often while they are standing
or sitting.
During
a tilt test the patient lies on a table and is connected to an ECG machine
and a blood pressure cuff on one arm. The table is then tilted
upwards (head up) to 60-70 degrees. The patient will have comfortable
straps over their legs and lower chest for a sense of security. The
table is kept up for 15-30 minutes with the patient’s heart rate
constantly monitored and blood pressure checked every minute. If
there is no response, the table is lowered to flat and a medication my be administered through an IV. The table is
then taken back up for another 15-30 minutes. If the patient develops
symptoms of light-headedness or fainting the table is laid flat and the
test is terminated.
Where
is the test performed?
The test
is performed in the Non-Invasive Cardiology Testing Area.
How long does this test take?
See above
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