Lumbar Puncture

What is a lumbar puncture?

A lumbar puncture is a procedure used to get a sample of spinal fluid for lab tests. It may also be done to inject medicine or dye. The term lumbar refers to the lower back between the pelvis and the ribs. This test is also called a spinal tap.

When is it used?

This procedure is used to:

• Check for infection or other signs of disease that may be affecting your brain and spinal cord (such as meningitis).
• Inject drugs to treat leukemia or diseases of the nervous system.
• Inject dye for X-rays used to diagnose diseases affecting the spine.
• Inject an anesthetic to numb your lower body for surgery.

How do I prepare for a lumbar puncture?

No preparation is needed unless the healthcare provider gives you special instructions.

What happens during the procedure?

This procedure can be done in your healthcare provider's office or in a hospital. It usually takes less than 20 minutes.

First you may be given a sedative. The sedative will relax you and reduce anxiety. It may cause you to fall asleep.

Usually, you will lie on one side with your knees bent and pulled up, with your chin touching your chest. This position allows the bones or vertebrae in the spine to separate so that your healthcare provider can insert a needle between the vertebrae of your spine and into the spinal canal. Before the needle is inserted, you may be given a local anesthetic to numb the skin. Your provider can get a sample of spinal fluid through the hollow needle or use the needle to inject medicine or dye.

What happens after the procedure?

Sterile tape is put on your skin where the needle was inserted. You may have a headache after the procedure. Lying down for a while after the procedure may help avoid a headache. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for things you can do to try to prevent a headache.

Ask your healthcare provider how to take care of yourself and when you should come back for a checkup.

What are the benefits of this procedure?

A lumbar puncture can help your healthcare provider make a more accurate diagnosis. When it is used to give an anesthetic, you will not feel any pain during surgery although you will be able to stay awake.

What are the risks associated with this procedure?

• A local anesthetic may not numb the area quite enough and you may feel some minor discomfort. Also, in rare cases, you may have an allergic reaction to the drug used in this type of anesthesia.
• You may have a headache for several days that gets worse when you sit up or stand up.
• Rarely, infection may develop in the skin where the needle was inserted.

Ask your healthcare provider how these risks apply to you.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your provider right away if:

• You notice any unusual drainage, including bloody discharge, where the needle was inserted.
• You develop a fever.
• Pain, including headache pain, or other symptoms worsen.

Call during office hours if:

• You have questions about the procedure or its result.
• You want to make another appointment.