Lumbar puncture
Minimally invasive sampling of cerebrospinal fluid to study its composition in order to identify the causes of diseases of the nervous system.
A lumbar puncture is an invasive diagnostic procedure in which a doctor uses a special needle to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis.
Cerebrospinal fluid is a biological fluid that washes the brain and spinal cord, performing protective, shock–absorbing and transport functions. Changes in its composition may indicate the presence of infectious, inflammatory, autoimmune or tumor diseases of the nervous system. The procedure is performed both for diagnostic purposes – to identify pathologies such as meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, neuroinfections, CNS tumors, and for therapeutic purposes – to reduce intracranial pressure or administer medications.
Before the lumbar puncture, the patient undergoes a standard examination, including a general blood test, a coagulogram (blood clotting test) and, if necessary, neuroimaging (CT or MRI of the brain) to exclude contraindications. On the day of the procedure, it is recommended not to eat fatty and heavy foods, as well as drink enough fluids.
The patient is positioned on a couch, lying on his side with bent knees pulled up to his chest, or sitting, leaning forward as much as possible. The doctor determines the optimal point for inserting the needle into the intervertebral space, then performs local anesthesia and inserts a thin needle that penetrates into the subarachnoid space where the cerebrospinal fluid circulates. When it gets into the desired area, a slow outflow of liquid begins, which is collected in test tubes for further laboratory analysis. The whole manipulation takes about 30-40 minutes.
Процедура проводится с использованием современных атравматичных спинальных одноразовых игл, резко снижающих риск побочных эффектов в виде головной боли. Также применяются пробирки с герметичными крышками для безопасного забора и транспортировки ликвора в лабораторию.
After a lumbar puncture, it is important to stay in a horizontal position for the first 30-40 minutes, avoiding sudden movements and lifting the head. During the day, it is recommended to limit physical activity, drink enough water and, if necessary, take painkillers prescribed by a doctor. Some patients may experience headaches after a puncture, which is a normal reaction of the body to a slight decrease in cerebrospinal fluid pressure. The symptoms usually go away within a few days.
Benefits
High diagnostic accuracy
It helps to identify infections, inflammatory and oncological diseases of the nervous system.
Minimally invasive technique
Modern needles reduce the painfulness of the procedure.
The possibility of therapeutic effects
Modern needles reduce the painfulness of the procedure.A puncture can reduce intracranial pressure or administer medications.
Safety
The procedure is performed by qualified doctors in compliance with all sterility measures.
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