Why is a lumbar puncture done in the lumbar region?

Why is a lumbar puncture done in the lumbar region?

The spinal cord extends from the lower part of the brain down to the upper lumbar area. A spinal tap is done in the lower lumbar area, below the point where the spinal cord ends. So, the risk of harming the spinal cord is avoided.

What is a lumbar puncture where is it performed what is the major purpose of this test?

A lumbar puncture (LP) or spinal tap may be done to diagnose or treat a condition. For this procedure, your healthcare provider inserts a hollow needle into the space surrounding the spinal column (subarachnoid space) in the lower back to withdraw some cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or inject medicine.

Why is a lumbar puncture done between L3 and L4?

The insertion of a needle under local anaesthetic requires careful positioning to prevent injury to the spinal cord. Since the spinal cord ends as a solid structure around the level of the second lumbar vertebra (L2) the insertion of a needle must be below this point, usually between L3 and L4 (Fig 2).

Which of the following is the safest place between 2 vertebrae to do a lumbar spinal puncture?

Therefore a lumbar puncture is generally performed at or below the L3-L4 interspace. As a general anatomical rule, the line drawn between the posterior iliac crests often corresponds closely to the level of L3-L4.

What kind of procedure is a lumbar puncture?

Lumbar puncture (LP), also known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure in which a needle is inserted into the spinal canal, most commonly to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for diagnostic testing.

Do you lie on your side during a lumbar puncture?

Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) Overview. Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) Spinal tap (lumbar puncture) During a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) procedure, you typically lie on your side with your knees drawn up to your chest.

How is cerebrospinal fluid collected during a lumbar puncture?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protects the brain and spinal cord from injury by acting like a liquid cushion. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). During the procedure, a needle is inserted usually between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected for testing.

How long does it take to recover from a lumbar puncture?

During a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted between two lumbar bones (vertebrae) to remove a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. This is the fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord to protect them from injury. How long does it take to recover from a lumbar puncture? About 20 to 30 minutes.

What are the reasons for having a lumbar puncture?

A lumbar puncture can help diagnose serious infections, such as meningitis; other disorders of the central nervous system, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome and multiple sclerosis; or cancers of the brain or spinal cord. Sometimes doctors use lumbar punctures to inject anesthetic medications or chemotherapy drugs into the cerebrospinal fluid.

What can I expect during a lumbar puncture?

What happens during a lumbar puncture? You will remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the procedure You will be given a gown to wear. You will be reminded to empty your bladder prior to the start of the procedure. During the lumbar puncture you may lie on the exam table on your side with your chin tucked to your chest and knees tucked to your abdomen.

What are the side effects of a lumbar puncture?

Another of the possible side effects of a lumbar puncture is back pain, which is fairly common because the needle has to pierce the lower back. Like a headache, this side effect should go away within a few days of the procedure.

What is the recovery time for a lumbar puncture?

Recovery From Lumbar Puncture. Patients are advised to lie flat for a period of time after the procedure and to avoid any strenuous activity for at least 24 hours. There may be some temporary after effects of the puncture, including a bloody discharge from the site, tenderness or pain in the lower back that may extend into the back of the legs,…