Boon, J. M., Abrahams, Peter H., Meiring, J. H. and Welch, T. (2004) Lumbar puncture for the generalist. South African Family Practice, Volume 46 (Number 2). pp. 38-42. ISSN 2078-6190.

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Abstract

The safe and successful performance of a lumbar puncture demands a working and yet specific knowledge as well as competency in performance. This review aims to aid understanding of the knowledge framework, the pitfalls and complications of lumbar puncture. It includes special reference to three dimensional relationships, functional anatomy, imaging anatomy, normal variation and living anatomy. A lumbar puncture is a commonly performed procedure for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Epidural and spinal anaesthesia, for example, are common in obstetric practice and involve the same technique as a lumbar puncture except for the endpoint of the needle being in the epidural space and subarachnoid space respectively. The procedure is by no means innocuous and some anatomical pitfalls include inability to find the correct entry site for placement of the lumbar puncture needle and lack of awareness of structures in relation to the advancing needle. Headache is the most common complication and it is important to avoid traumatic and dry taps, herniation syndromes and injury to the terminal end of the spinal cord. With a thorough knowledge of the contraindications, the regional anatomy and rationale of the technique and adequate prior skills practice, a lumbar puncture can be performed safely and successfully.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Subjects:	R Medicine > R Medicine (General) R Medicine > RM Therapeutics. Pharmacology
Divisions:	Faculty of Science, Engineering and Medicine > Medicine > Warwick Medical School
Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH):	Spine -- Puncture, Spinal chord
Journal or Publication Title:	South African Family Practice
Publisher:	Medpharm Publications (Pty) Ltd
ISSN:	2078-6190
Official Date:	2004
Dates:	Date Event 2004 Published
Volume:	Volume 46
Number:	Number 2
Page Range:	pp. 38-42
Status:	Peer Reviewed
Publication Status:	Published
Access rights to Published version:	Open Access (Creative Commons)
Date of first compliant deposit:	24 December 2015
Date of first compliant Open Access:	24 December 2015

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