Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

Procedure Description:
The procedure is carried out to obtain a sample of spinal fluid, also called CSF or cerebro-spinal-fluid, for testing. The CSF is produced by specialized blood vessels in the brain, and it functions to help protect and maybe even partially nourish the brain and spinal cord. The fluid is located in a sac that is closely applied to the entire surface the brain and spinal cord, but within the skull and bony spine. Normally, the fluid is constantly circulating between the brain and the spinal canal, and is then released into the draining blood vessels. It is believed that CSF is continuously being produced and removed, such that it is turned around several times daily.

Often times, diseases of the brain and spinal cord, such as infections and multiple sclerosis, cause changes that can be detected in the CSF. Therefore, study of the spinal fluid provides an opportunity to diagnose such conditions without actually having to take a sample of brain tissue. In some other conditions, such as pseudotumor cerebri, there is excessive production of CSF, and its removal may be necessary to provide relief.

The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia. A needle is carefully inserted between the bones in the low back into the sac that contain the spinal fluid. The fluid trickles, drop by drop, and is collected for testing. In order to help replenish the fluid and to help the wound heal, patient’s are advised to lie flat on their back for several hours after the procedure.

Forms
Spinal Tap Part I
Spinal Tap Part II