- The purpose of lumbar puncture is to collect the fluid around the spinal cord to obtain information regarding the central nervous system such as infection, bleeding, elevated pressure, and etc.
- The procedure is fairly straight forward although it may take a little while. The patient is asked to lie on the side and hug the knees. After sterilizing the back, sterile cloths (called drapes) will be placed around the area. A local anesthetic (pain-relieving medication) will be injected into the area on the back. Once the area is numb, a hollow needle is inserted in the lower back between two lumbar vertebrae. This sometimes causes pressure. The spinal canal is penetrated and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected. CSF is a colorless fluid surrounding the brain and spine. Approximately 500 mL of CSF is produced and reabsorbed per day.
- The patient is to lay flat for 8 hours after the procedure. Do not elevat the head, bend the knees, sit up, or get out of bed. Ask the medical staff to help with any discomforts or needs (e.g. soreness or voiding)
- Avoid strenuous or vigorous exercise for a day or so following the lumbar puncture.
- If you have a headache, lay down as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids. Inform your health care provider if the headache persists.
- If no contraindication, try and drink at least 2L of liquid the day of the lumbar puncture and the day after (regardless of headache).
- Return to the emergency department or inform your medical staff as soon as possible if there are following symptoms：
- Unusual drainage, including bloody discharge, at the puncture site
- Fever
- Persistent severe headache
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) Care
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