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Length of Procedure
Hospital Entry
Contact information
60-90mins
Hospital Admission: Same day as test
Dr Fitzpatrick's Secretary : 0161 276 4978
Specialist Nurses : 0161 276 4657
Cardiac Technicians: 0161 276 4132
Hospital Stay: Discharge same day
Location:Specialist Cardiac Services

A Tilt Table Test is a safe, controlled way to bring on the symptoms of neurocardiogenic syncope or blackouts whilst recording the activity of the heart. It is a safe procedure with very low risk of complications.

Why is a Tilt Test Needed?

In a person who is sitting or standing, the blood vessels dilate (widen) and the blood pools in the lower legs. This decreases the blood returning to the heart and head. To counter this the heart responds with an increase in heart rate and constriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels in the legs. For blackout sufferers the heart can slow down and the blood vessels widen even more, causing the blood pressure to fall very low. This can bring on symptoms such as: dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or sweating. The symptoms often occur after exercise, stress, fear, or prolonged standing.

Prior to the Test:

Patients should confirm their attendance for the test by calling Dr Fitzpatrick's secretary on 0161 276 4978.

The patient is advised not to eat or drink anything for 4 hours before the test.

Tilt Test

The patient is taken to the tilt room - located in Specialist Cardiac Services. The patient is asked to undress to the waist, put on a gown and then lie on a special table which has a footplate which should be in contact with the patient's feet.

An ECG (electrocardiogram - to record heartbeat) is done first. The attending nurse or technician will explain the test to the patient.

After the ECG, 3 more electrodes will be put on to the patients chest and a small cuff is placed on one of the fingers. This will monitor blood pressure and heart rhythm throughout the duration of the test.

Three safety straps are fastened over the body and are attached to the table. These support the patient during the test, should the patient experience a black out, and prevent injury. The patient will also be fitted with a sling (over the right arm). This keeps the arm in the correct position and protects the instruments, such as the blood pressure monitor, from being dislodged from the hand.

At this point the test will begin with a 10 minute quiet period. The room lights are turned off. Following this the table will be gradually tilted to a 60 degree position (almost a standing position). The patients head is up and the floorplate will be supporting the patient.

Monitoring of the ECG will continue for a further 45 minutes. A doctor, nurse or technician will be present at all times.

If the patient should feel unwell during the test, the test can be stopped. However, the patient will be encouraged to continue.

If the patient has a blackout, all ECG and blood pressure recordings will be noted down by the doctor. The patient will quickly returned to the lying flat position which should help recovery.

It is possible at this stage that some patients may require some additional help to recover. Sometimes a cannula (a small tube is inserted into the vein in the back of the hand) may be inserted to deliver medication or fluids. The patient may be transferred to a ward for a short period until ready to go home.

At the end of the test it may be necessary for the doctor to press on the both sides of the neck.

After the test the doctor will discuss the results with the patient and the next course of action.

The total time for the test is between 60 and 90 minutes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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