Lumbar puncture (LP): procedure and complications
Written and reviewed by Dr Ibrahim Imam, Consultant Neurologist. Last reviewed .
Lumbar puncture (LP): procedure and complications. Sitting position: this increases the risk of severe headache. Fully referenced neurology checklist.
Subject positioning
- Lateral recumbent (supine) position: this is required for measuring CSF pressure
- Sitting position: this increases the risk of severe headache
Asepsis
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Needle type
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Needle insertion
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CSF removal
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Ultrasound-guided LP: indications and benefits
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Complications
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References
- Engelborghs S, Niemantsverdriet E, Struyfs H, et al. Consensus guidelines for lumbar puncture in patients with neurological diseases. Alzheimers Dement (Amst) 2017; 8:111-126.
- Rochwerg B, Almenawer SA, Siemieniuk RAC, et al. Atraumatic (pencil-point) versus conventional needles for lumbar puncture: a clinical practice guideline. BMJ 2018; 361:k1920.
- Millington SJ, Silva Restrepo M, Koenig S. Better with ultrasound: lumbar puncture. Chest. 2018; 154: 1223-1229.
- Soni NJ, Franco-Sadud R, Kobaidze K, et al. Recommendations on the use of ultrasound guidance for adult lumbar puncture: a position statement of the Society of Hospital Medicine. J Hosp Med 2019; 14:591-601.
- Soni NJ, Franco-Sadud R, Schnobrich D, et al. Ultrasound guidance for lumbar puncture. Neurol Clin Pract 2016; 6:358-368.
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