Your Lumbar Puncture Journey

We want to ensure that you receive the highest level of healthcare. This means keeping you educated and informed about what is involved in the different stages of your Lumbar Puncture procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your doctor or medical team.

Understanding Lumbar Puncture

A Lumbar Puncture is a medical procedure where a needle is carefully inserted into the lower part of your spine (the lumbar region) to collect a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord, protecting and nourishing them.

Reasons for a Lumbar Puncture

The fluid collected is tested to help diagnose conditions such as:

Infections like meningitis or encephalitis
Multiple sclerosis and other neurological diseases
Bleeding around the brain (subarachnoid haemorrhage)
Certain cancers
Inflammatory conditions.

It can also measure the pressure of the CSF, which provides important diagnostic information.

Preparing for Your Lumbar Puncture

Before the Procedure

To help ensure your safety:

You may be asked to stop certain medications, especially blood thinners, several days before the Test.
You will usually be advised not to eat or drink for a few hours before the procedure, but your doctor will give
specific instructions.
Inform your doctor if you have allergies, infections, or bleeding disorders.
Let your healthcare team know if you feel anxious or have difficulty lying still.

The Day of the Procedure

You are advised to bring:

Comfortable clothing that can be easily removed or adjusted
A list of all medications and allergies
Government-issued ID
Health insurance information.

Leave valuables and jewellery at home.

If you are going to be sedated, ensure someone accompanies you home.

The Procedure

STEP 1: Getting Ready

You will lie on your side with your knees drawn up towards your chest or sit leaning forward, to open up the space between your vertebrae.
The nurse or doctor will clean your lower back with antiseptic and cover the area with sterile drapes.
A local anaesthetic will be injected to numb the area. This may sting briefly.

STEP 2: The Lumbar Puncture

The doctor will insert a thin needle between two lumbar
vertebrae to access the CSF.
You may feel some pressure or discomfort but no sharp pain.
A small amount of fluid will be collected into sterile tubes for testing.
The needle will be removed and a small dressing applied to the puncture site.

STEP 3: After the Procedure

You will rest lying flat for about 30 to 60 minutes to reduce the chance of headaches.
Your vital signs will be monitored for any
immediate reactions.

Aftercare and Recovery

At the Hospital

You may feel tired or experience mild discomfort in your lower back.
Headaches are common but usually mild and short-lived. Drinking plenty of fluids helps.

At Home

Rest for the remainder of the day, avoiding strenuous
activity.
Keep the puncture site clean and dry for 24 hours.
You can shower after 24 hours but avoid baths or swimming until the site is healed.
Take any painkillers as advised by your doctor.

Possible Complications

While Lumbar Punctures are generally safe, some risks include:

Headache: Occurs in up to 30% of patients but usually resolves with rest and fluids
Back pain or tenderness at the puncture site
Bleeding or infection: Rare but serious. Contact your doctor if you notice swelling, redness, or discharge
Nerve irritation: Very rare. May cause tingling or numbness in the legs.