Lumbar puncture

Question 1

What is a lumbar puncture?

Answer 1

A lumbar puncture is where a thin needle is inserted between the bones in your lower spine. It shouldn’t be painful, but you may have a headache and some back pain for a few days.

Question 2

When would you do a lumbar puncture?

Answer 2

> take a sample of fluid from your spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid) or measure the fluid’s pressure – to help diagnose a condition

> inject medications – such as painkillers, antibiotics or chemotherapy

> inject a spinal anaesthetic (epidural) – to numb the lower part of your body before an operation

> remove some fluid to reduce pressure in the skull or spine

Question 3

What are the complications of a lumbar puncture?

Answer 3

> Headaches 
> Swelling/ lower back pain
> Brain herniation
> Bleeding
> Infection