Definition | Reasons for Procedure | Possible Complications | What to Expect | Call Your Doctor

Definition

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. A lumbar puncture is done with a needle.

Lumbar Puncture Method

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Reasons for Procedure

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:

  • Administer dye for imaging studies
  • Drain CSF to lower pressure within the brain
  • Give medicine directly to the spine (such as, chemotherapy, antibiotics, anesthesia)

Possible Complications

If you are planning to have a lumbar puncture, your doctor will review a list of possible complications. Complications may include:

  • Headache
  • Backache
  • Bleeding (which can compress the nerve roots or spinal cord)
  • Pain or abnormal burning, pricking, or tingling sensations in legs
  • Allergic reaction to anesthetic
  • Infection

What to Expect

Your doctor may order a CT scan of the head before the procedure. A CT scan makes detailed pictures of your brain.

Just before the surgery 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 medicine is injected with a needle.

You will 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. The doctor will take a sample of CSF through the needle.

During the procedure, your doctor will make a note of the pressure of the CSF. If you have discomfort, the needle may need to be repositioned. It may take several minutes for the doctor to collect all the fluid he needs. Once the doctor is done, the needle will be taken out. A dressing will be placed over the puncture.

You will lie down for 10-15 minutes. Unless you have a severe headache, you will be able to go home.

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:

  • Drink extra fluids for the next 24 hours.
  • Rest and remain quiet for at least 24 hours.
  • Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

  • Severe headache or headache lasting for more than 24 hours
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Signs of infection, including fever and chills
  • Redness, swelling, increasing pain, bleeding, or discharge from the lumbar puncture site
  • Numbness, tingling, or pain in your lower back or legs
  • Weakness in your lower legs or difficulty walking
  • Problems with urination or defecation
  • A stiff neck
  • Pain that you cannot control with the medicines you have been given
  • Cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain

In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.