Tilt Table Evaluation

Also known as: tilt table test.

What is a tilt table evaluation?

A tilt table evaluation (or test) is a medical procedure used to determine the possible cause of an (or repeated), unexplained fainting episode/s (syncope), particularly during exercise.

What happens during the procedure?

Your child is laid flat on a special bed, secured with straps, while connected to blood pressure and EKG (heart) monitors. The bed position is moved quickly from lying flat to an upright standing position and differences in the monitored measurements between the two positions, examined.

Is any special preparation needed?

Your child should come in for the test with an empty stomach by not having had anything to eat or drink for 8 hours.

What are the risk factors?

There are a few common risks associated with the tilt table test which may include a planned fainting episode, dizziness or headache, nausea, low or high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat (or palpitations) and others. If you require more information please consult your pediatric cardiologist.


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: February 26, 2021 02:04 PM

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