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Tilt Table Test

What is it?

The tilt table test is a procedure that monitors heart rate, rhythm and blood pressure with the patient in flat and upright positions, using a table that tilts the patient upright.

Why is it done?

The tilt table test is done to define the cause of syncope, or fainting spells. Syncope can be caused by many different kinds of health problems. The most common type of fainting, called vasodepressor syncope, is not serious. Vasodepressor syncope occurs when there is a sudden fall in blood pressure caused by a change in position such as standing up. This results in low blood flow to the brain and leads to fainting.

How does it work?

For this test, your child lies on a table, and the table is moved to an upward position at several angles for a set amount of time.

If your child faints, the test is positive. A positive test suggests that the reason for fainting is the change in position and not a more serious problem.

If your child does not faint, a cardiologist will talk with you about what to do next, depending on symptoms and vital signs taken during the test.

What do we do before the test?

Your child should not eat or drink for four hours beforehand to reduce the risk of nausea and vomiting during the test. Also, make sure your child wears comfortable clothes.

The cardiologist may decide to attach an IV line (a tiny plastic tube that is placed in a vein) before the test.

What happens during the test?

Your child lies on a tilt table, starting in a flat position. The table is tilted to an almost upright position to see if she faints. Heart rate, blood pressure and symptoms are closely monitored and evaluated with changes in position.

The cardiologist may decide to give an IV infusion of isoproternol if the first part of the tilt table test is negative. Then your child will go through the test again.

How long does it take?

A tilt table test usually takes about 90 minutes.