Tilt Table Test (Fainting Test)

Tilt Table Test The tilt table test evaluates presyncope (fainting). Many fainting episodes are due to a syndrome called transient autonomic dysfunction or neuro-cardiogenic syncope, which causes a sudden drop in blood pressure and a slow heart rate when body position changes suddenly. In some instances, these heart rate and blood pressure changes cause fainting. This procedure attempts to cause syncope by creating changes in posture from lying to standing. The patient lies flat on a special bed or table while connected to electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure monitors. The bed or table is elevated to an almost standing position to simulate the patient standing up from a lying position. Blood pressure and ECG are measured during the test to evaluate changes during the position changes. If the test causes an episode of syncope, the physician can prescribe specific treatments for the syncope. Learn more about tilt table tests, including what to expect before, during and after the test.