title: Diagnostic Lumbar Puncture.
abstract: Diagnostic Lumbar Puncture is one of the most commonly performed invasive tests in clinical medicine. Evaluation of an acute headache and investigation of inflammatory or infectious disease of the nervous system are the most common indications. Serious complications are rare, and correct technique will minimise diagnostic error and maximise patient comfort. We review the technique of diagnostic Lumbar Puncture including anatomy, needle selection, needle insertion, measurement of opening pressure, Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) specimen handling and after care. We also make some quality improvement suggestions for those designing services incorporating diagnostic Lumbar Puncture.
authors: Department of Neurology, SHSCT, Craigavon Area Hospital, Portadown, County Armagh. BT63 5QQ.
authors: Carolynne M
authors: CM
authors: Doherty
authors: Department of Neurology, SHSCT, Craigavon Area Hospital, Portadown, County Armagh. BT63 5QQ.
authors: Raeburn B
authors: RB
authors: Forbes
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009422:Nervous System Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013129:Spinal Puncture / Q000379:methods*