What Is a Lumbar Puncture

Lumbar puncture sometimes called a spinal tap is a procedure in which a thin needle is inserted into the lower back to collect a small sample of cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord This fluid is analysed for cells proteins glucose antibodies and infectious agents to help diagnose meningitis encephalitis multiple sclerosis subarachnoid haemorrhage and other central nervous system disorders

Indications for Lumbar Puncture

Neurologists recommend lumbar puncture when infection of the brain or spinal cord is suspected when there is concern about inflammatory or autoimmune disease such as multiple sclerosis or when unexplained neurological symptoms suggest subarachnoid bleeding despite normal initial imaging It is also used to measure opening pressure for suspected intracranial hypertension or to administer medicines such as chemotherapy or anaesthesia into the spinal fluid

How the Procedure Is Performed

The patient usually lies on their side with knees drawn up to the chest or sits leaning forward which helps widen the spaces between lumbar vertebrae After cleaning the skin and injecting local anaesthetic the doctor advances a thin needle between the lumbar bones below the level of the spinal cord into the fluid filled space Clear cerebrospinal fluid flows into collection tubes for laboratory analysis and the needle is then withdrawn and a dressing applied The procedure usually takes only several minutes once positioning is complete

Safety and Possible Side Effects

Lumbar puncture is generally safe when contraindications are excluded and correct technique is used The most common side effect is a post lumbar puncture headache caused by transient reduction in fluid pressure typically presenting as a positional headache that improves on lying down This is often managed with rest fluids and simple pain relief Very rarely complications such as bleeding infection or nerve irritation may occur which is why pre procedure assessment including imaging and clotting tests is important in selected patients

Interpreting Cerebrospinal Fluid Results

The laboratory measures opening pressure cell counts protein and glucose levels and may perform cultures staining antibody tests and molecular studies Elevated white cells and abnormal glucose or protein levels can support a diagnosis of bacterial or viral meningitis while the presence of specific antibodies or oligoclonal bands can assist in confirming multiple sclerosis and related demyelinating diseases The neurologist interprets results in the context of symptoms examination and imaging to reach a final diagnosis and treatment plan

Why Choose Livasa Hospital Mohali for Lumbar Puncture

Livasa Hospital Mohali performs lumbar punctures in a controlled environment with trained neurologists or anaesthetists imaging support and rapid access to laboratory analysis Protocols are in place to identify contraindications obtain informed consent and monitor patients afterward ensuring that people in Punjab receive accurate cerebrospinal fluid evaluation with appropriate safety measures

NAP Contact Details Mohali Unit

Livasa Hospital Mohali
Sector 71 Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar Mohali Punjab 160071