Tilt Table Exams
A Tilt Table Test mimics the body's response when it is moved from a horizontal to a vertical position. In the test, the patient is secured with safety straps to a pivoting table and an intravenous (IV) tube is inserted into the patient's arm. The blood pressure and heart rate are monitored throughout the test.
The test starts with the patient lying on his or her back for 5-10 minutes. The table then is moved quickly to a nearly upright position - a tilt of about 80 degrees. If symptoms do not occur, the patient may be returned to a lying position and drugs that make the heart beat faster are given through the IV. This mimics the action of the body during exercise or stress. If the patient becomes lightheaded or faints with a sudden drop in blood pressure and/or heart rate during this test, it is considered a positive diagnosis of neurocardiogenic syncope. When the table is returned to a horizontal position, consciousness is restored (if the patient has fainted) and the blood pressure and heart rate return to normal.