Specialist Medicine Toowoomba
Tilt Table Test
Head-upTilt Table Test (TTT) is performed in order to assess symptoms and conditions associated with upright posture such as syncope, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and other forms or autonomic dysfunction.
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The test is conducted in a quiet room where only you, the Doctor and the Nurse are present
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An intravenous cannula will be inserted into one of your arm veins. This will be used for saline infusion if your blood pressure drops too much and takes long to recover
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ECG leads will be connected to your chest and a blood pressure cuff is attached to your arm
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You will be secured to the table for safety with loose velcro straps. Feet will be resting on the footplate
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Baseline readings (symptoms, heart rate and blood pressure) are recorded while you are lying flat on the table
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​Then, the table will be tilted (head-side up) to 70 degrees. You will be observed for up to 20 minutes in this position
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You are expected to report all symptoms you feel even if you may think they are trivial. They are recorded on a timeline on the computer.
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In the second phase of the test, gentle pressure will be applied on the pressure sensors of your carotid arteries in the neck
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In the third phase, glyceryl trinitrate (GTN) sublingual spray is administered ​​​​​in order to relax blood vessels, thus creating more stress for the autonomic nervous system
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At any of these stages, the test could end if the necessary data are obtained ​
INDICATIONS
Multiple syncope events (blackout) of unknown cause or such single event where risk of injury or occupational hazard exists Suspected vasovagal syncope; to confirm the diagnosis or to find the mechanism To evaluate autonomic function; for example, assessment for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome
PREPARATION FOR THE TEST
This test is performed during your normal health. If you are unwell, please let the Practice know in advance so that your appointment rescheduled and the opportunity will be given to someone in the waiting list. There is the likelihood of a blackout or fainting during this test. After the test, you may be tired. Therefore, plan to take the whole day off work or school. You may need to withhold some medication in order to make the test result more reliable. Please discuss this with the referring doctor or our practice Avoid eating for 3 hours before the test. Drink water until 30 minutes before the test and keep yourself hydrated. Avoid caffeine for 24 hours leading to the test. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. It may be necessary to change to a hospital gown to allow attachment of ECG leads to the chest.
DURING THE TEST
Report your symptoms. Some symptoms may sound trivial but may be the precursor to a vasovagal faint that would be useful to identify.