Lumbar Puncture
What is it?
A lumbar puncture is a procedure in which a
needle is inserted into the lower part of the
spinal canal between the lumbar vertebrae. The
vertebrae are the bones that make up the spine and
the lumbar is the lower back area.
Who needs this procedure?
A lumbar puncture is used to diagnose certain
diseases and infections that cause abnormalities
in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear
fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. A
lumbar puncture also may be used to measure CSF
pressure, remove excess amounts of fluid by
relieving pressure in the brain and to inject
medications to treat certain diseases, dyes for
diagnostic tests, and anesthetics that numb the
area from the spine to the toes before surgery.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Before you have a lumbar puncture, your doctor
will explain the procedure to you so you know what
to expect. You may need to sign a consent form.
There are no special preparations for this
procedure.
How is this procedure performed?
To perform the lumbar puncture, your physician
will ask you to lie on your side with your knees
pulled up to your chest. He or she will clean and
numb the area where the puncture will occur, then
insert a long, thin needle into the lumbar area to
either remove a small amount of fluid or inject
the medication or dye.
What can I expect after the procedure?
After a lumbar puncture, you will be asked to
lie flat for a period of time to prevent headache.
You may feel a small amount of soreness around the
area where the needle was inserted.
Self-care tips
Call your doctor if you have any questions
after a lumbar puncture, or any reactions such as
fever or signs of infection around the area where
the needle was inserted.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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