A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure that tests the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by removing a small sample. CSF is the clear, protective fluid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord.
A lumbar puncture is an important test that allows doctors to make accurate diagnoses and guide the treatment of various conditions that affect the central nervous system.
- Patients who want to diagnose or treat certain neurological diseases.
- Computed tomography (CT).
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- About 30 minutes.
- Over 90% in most cases.
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Why perform a lumbar puncture (spinal tap)?
Lumbar puncture is a critical step in :
- Diagnosing neurological disorders: Lumbar puncture detects infections such as meningitis and encephalitis by analyzing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Assessment of intracranial pressure: Lumbar puncture measures the pressure inside the skull, a key element in diagnosing conditions such as hydrocephalus.
- Delivery of targeted treatments: Drugs or radioactive substances can be injected into the CSF during a lumbar puncture to treat certain diseases.
Lumbar puncture procedure in Turkey
A lumbar puncture is usually performed by a neurologist or radiologist.
Before the procedure, the patient will be given instructions on how to prepare. This may include restricting certain foods or drinks and taking or stopping certain medications. The patient will also be asked to sign a consent form.
Preparing for the procedure
Before a lumbar puncture, the patient is often placed on his or her side in the fetal position or seated, leaning forward with a rounded back.
The back is disinfected, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area where the needle will be inserted.
Needle insertion
A fine needle is inserted into the spinal canal between two lumbar vertebrae using a strict sterile technique.
The patient remains motionless during the needle insertion.
CSF Collection
Once the needle is properly positioned, the CSF is collected. The pressure in the spinal canal may also be measured.
The collected CSF is then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Needle removal and postoperative care
Once enough CSF has been collected, the needle is carefully removed. A bandage is then applied to the puncture site.
The patient may be asked to lie flat for some time to minimize the risk of post-lumbar puncture headache.
The lumbar puncture usually takes about 30 minutes.
Most people can resume their usual activities the day after the procedure.
Purpose of lumbar puncture
Lumbar puncture is intended for a wide range of patients suffering from neurological disorders or pathologies affecting the central nervous system. It is performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Diagnostic indications
By analyzing cerebrospinal fluid, physicians can:
- Suspect central nervous system (CNS) infections: the presence of bacteria, viruses or fungi in the CSF can confirm meningitis or encephalitis.
- Detect meningeal or subarachnoid hemorrhage: Lumbar puncture can detect the presence of blood in the CSF, indicating a hemorrhage.
- Diagnosis of CNS inflammatory diseases: Cellular or immunologic abnormalities in the CSF may be characteristic of multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré disease, or other inflammatory conditions.
- Detecting the presence of CNS tumors: Lumbar puncture can help detect the presence of cancer cells in the CSF.
Therapeutic indications
In addition to diagnosis, lumbar puncture is invaluable in the treatment of certain pathologies:
- Reduction of high intracranial pressure: Lumbar puncture allows excess cerebrospinal fluid to be drained, relieving pressure on the brain. This can be critical in cases of cerebral hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, or brain tumors.
- Deliver targeted treatments: Certain drugs or radioactive products can be injected into the cerebrospinal fluid during a lumbar puncture to treat specific diseases of the central nervous system.
Risks & side effects of spinal tap surgery
A spinal tap is a safe and widely used procedure. In most cases, there are no complications.
The most common side effects of a spinal tap are mild and disappear on their own within a few days. They may include:
- Headache.
- Back pain.
- Nausea.
In rare cases, more serious complications may occur. It is important to seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
- Nerve damage.
- Persistent headache.
Choosing Turkey for a spinal tap
Many patients come to Turkey for a lumbar puncture, attracted by the recognized medical expertise of our medical professionals and the impeccable quality of our services.
Our highly qualified neurologists and radiologists, trained in prestigious institutions, use the latest techniques to provide you with the best possible care.
With Turquie Santé, you can enjoy a modern, comfortable and safe environment while making significant savings.
Take advantage of a free teleconsultation with our experts to answer all your questions and receive a personalized quote. Our team will be with you from the moment you arrive in Turkey to take complete charge of your care and ensure that your stay goes smoothly.
Don't wait any longer, contact us today and choose a successful lumbar puncture in complete confidence.
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