Lumbar puncture is an important diagnostic procedure during which cerebrospinal fluid is taken. Today, it is this study that is the most accurate, as it helps the doctor determine the condition of the body, as well as the presence of certain diseases.
Lumbar puncture: technique
This procedure is really very important for the diagnosis of a number of very dangerous diseases and conditions. It is worth noting that such a study has been known for a long time - it was first performed in 1891.
The technique is quite simple. As a rule, lumbar puncture is combined with x-ray examination. In such cases, the patient needs proper preparation. Before the procedure, it is necessary to cleanse the intestines. If an x-ray is not needed, then there is no need for any special preparation.
Lumbar function is performed either in a sitting position or lying on one side and bending the legs to the chest. First, the doctor must treat the skin on the patient’s back with an antiseptic and wash his hands thoroughly. Remember that only disposable, sterile needles are used to collect cerebrospinal fluid, which must be printed directly during the procedure.
A puncture is carried out between the third and
fourth vertebrae. First, the doctor inserts a thin needle through which an anesthetic is delivered to the puncture site. After that, a thin needle is removed and a thicker puncture needle with a stylet is inserted into the same place. Thus, the liquor is taken. The procedure, as a rule, does not take a lot of time.
Lumbar puncture - does it hurt ? This question is of interest to many patients. The procedure is carried out using local anesthesia, so do not worry about severe pain. However, discomfort is possible during puncture.
Lumbar puncture: indications for cast
Doctors use the results of the study to diagnose many diseases. Cerebrospinal fluid sampling is performed if there are suspicions of:
- inflammatory diseases of the nervous system, including meningitis, myelitis and meningoencephalitis;
- expiration of cerebrospinal fluid in the nasal cavity and ears (cerebrospinal fluid);
- hemorrhages with severe bruises of the spinal cord and brain;
- hydrocephalus;
- change in intracranial pressure;
- arachnoiditis.
In addition, lumbar puncture is used during x-ray studies - ozone, oxygen or some kind of contrast agent is injected through a puncture. In some cases, this is the way drugs are administered.
Is lumbar puncture dangerous?
Many patients refuse to perform such a procedure. The fact is that over the years, a lot of myths have formed around this study, which are far from always true. For example, it is believed that infection can be introduced into the spinal cord when cerebrospinal fluid is taken. Yes, the risk of infection always exists, but in this case it is too small, as doctors use modern antiseptic drugs and disposable, sterile needles.
It is believed that lumbar function is fraught with damage to the spinal cord. In fact, this is almost impossible, since the spinal cord in an adult ends at the level of the second vertebra of the lumbar region, and a puncture is made between the third and fourth vertebrae.