Lumbar Puncture

A lumbar puncture is a procedure that uses X-ray guidance to remove a sample of spinal fluid for analysis and measure the pressure in the space around the spinal cord.

Before Your Procedure

• Radiation is used for this exam. Please notify your doctor if you are pregnant.
• You may eat and drink as normal. If you are not on a fluid restriction, drink plenty of fluids the day before the procedure.
• Certain medications cannot be taken prior to this procedure; your doctor will provide instructions if you need to adjust your medication.
• You need to arrange transportation, as you will not be able to drive home after the procedure.

During Your Procedure

A team of nurses, imaging technologists, and provider (doctor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner) will explain and perform the procedure.

• Imaging technologist positions you, lying on your stomach, on the X-ray table.
• Provider decides on the safest site to remove fluid and cleans the skin.
• Provider uses a small needle to inject numbing medication before inserting a small tube / catheter.
• Fluid is then removed from the spinal canal and sent to the laboratory for testing.
• After fluid removal, the catheter is removed, and a bandage is placed over the procedure site.
• The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes.

After Your Procedure

• You are monitored for 30 minutes or longer per provider discretion.
• A nurse provides home instructions to care for your procedure site.
• Your care provider or ordering clinic will call or message you with results.
• Follow-up care is a key part of your health. Be sure to make and go to all appointments and call your primary care provider if you have questions.