“If you have had a fainting spell, it is time to see a cardiologist and electrophysiologist. The Tilt Test, or Tilt Table Test, is essential to establish the origin of the fainting, evaluating the cause through changes in the patient’s position,” explains Dr. Richard Soto, cardiologist and electrophysiologist at our clinic, who provides more details on this complementary test.

How is the Tilt Test performed? 

To perform this test, the patient must be fasting for 6 to 8 hours. The Tilt Test is performed in two phases: initially with the patient lying on a special table in a horizontal position and then tilting the patient almost 80°. During the first 20-minute phase, vital signs are monitored. If syncope or fainting does not occur, sublingual nitrate is administered and monitoring is continued for an additional 20 minutes to watch for the appearance of cardiovascular symptoms.

In what type of patients or cases is the Tilt Test indicated?

• Persons with multiple loss of consciousness or syncope.
• Persons with high-risk professions who have suffered one or more syncope.
• Study of patients with exercise-induced syncope.
• Diagnosis of prolonged syncope accompanied by seizures.
• Evaluation of patients with unexplained falls.
• Study of recurrent dizziness.
• Evaluation of the efficacy of specific treatment for syncope.Top of Form

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What are the benefits?

The Tilt Test is essential for the study of patients with loss of consciousness, especially when a vasovagal phenomenon (common fainting) is suspected. This test is highly beneficial, as it allows the diagnosis of cases in which other cardiovascular and neurological studies have failed to reach a definitive diagnosis, offering a key tool for an accurate assessment and appropriate treatment.

Dr. Richard Soto
Cardiologist and electrophysiologist at Clínica Ricardo Palma