Tilt Table Test

A tilt table test is a diagnostic test used to help a physician determine why a patient has been experiencing dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting spells (syncope). There are a number of different factors that may cause fainting spells, and the tilt table test is used to assess one in particular – a sudden drop in blood pressure (due to a widening of the blood vessels), often with a drop in heart rate as well. Fainting that results from this change in blood pressure and blood vessels is now called neurocardiogenic syncope, although many people still refer to the syndrome as vasovagal syncope.

The tilt table test is conducted on a special table. By securing the patient on his or her back to the tilt table, and then tilting the table upright (head up and feet down), the factors leading to neurocardiogenic syncope may be simulated. This test is designed to detect orthostatic hypotension, one of the most common causes of fainting.

Medications may also be given to the patient to try to re-create the abnormal reflex. The patient's heart rate and blood pressure are monitored carefully throughout the test. Results from the test are available immediately, and a specific course of treatment can be prescribed at that time. There are very few risks associated with this test and it provides valuable information to help physicians diagnose a number of heart-related conditions.

A Tilt Table Test is done to:

Assess the causes of  vasovagal or neurocardiogenic syncope (fainting). Vasovagal or neurocardiogenic syncope is when the heart rate slows and the blood pressure decreases because the blood vessels dilate (open) as a result of an abnormal reflex of the nervous system.