A lumbar puncture is a test of the fluid around your spine and brain. This fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It provides protection and nutrition to the brain and nerve cells. CSF also helps to remove waste products from the brain.
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The test is done to look for abnormalities in the spinal fluid. It may be done to help diagnose conditions such as:
The procedure may also be done to:
Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:
A CT scan or an MRI scan of the head may be ordered before the procedure. These scans make detailed pictures of your brain.
Just before the procedure, your doctor will clean the site where the needle will be inserted.
Local anesthesia will be used most often. It numbs just a small area. The medication is injected with a needle.
You will likely lie on your side with your knees drawn up in front. Some punctures may be done while you sit on the edge of the bed. A needle will be inserted into the spinal canal through the lower back. A sample of CSF will be taken through the needle.
During the procedure, the pressure of the CSF may be noted. If you have discomfort, the needle may need to be repositioned. It may take several minutes to collect the fluid needed. The needle will be removed. A dressing will be placed over the puncture.
You will lie down for 10-60 minutes. In most cases, you will be able to go home after the procedure. If you have a severe headache or need immediate treatment, you may need to stay longer.
About 30-45 minutes from setup to completion
Discomfort is minimal to moderate. The anesthetic will sting when first injected.
When you return home after the procedure, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:
After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.
Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
http://www.ninds.nih.gov
About Kids Health—The Hospital For Sick Children
http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca
Health Canada
https://www.canada.ca
Lumbar puncture (LP). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available athttp://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T168500/Lumbar-puncture-LP. Updated September 11, 2017. Accessed February 14, 2018.
Torpy J, Lynm C, et al. Lumbar puncture. JAMA. 2006;296(16):2050.
Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 2/13/2014
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