external lumbar drainage
A neurosurgical procedure involving placement of a catheter in the lumbar subarachnoid space to drain cerebrospinal fluid externally.
Full Definition
External lumbar drainage (ELD) is a neurosurgical technique that involves inserting a catheter into the lumbar subarachnoid space to allow controlled drainage of cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure is typically performed using a lumbar puncture technique at the L3-L4 or L4-L5 interspace, with the catheter connected to an external drainage system. ELD is commonly used to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus (as a diagnostic test), manage CSF leaks, reduce intracranial pressure when ventricular access is not feasible, and prevent CSF accumulation following certain neurosurgical procedures. The drainage rate is carefully controlled and monitored to prevent over-drainage complications such as subdural hematoma or brain herniation. Contraindications include spinal cord compression, infection at the insertion site, and coagulopathy.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as ELD. Distinct from lumbar puncture, which is a diagnostic procedure rather than continuous drainage.
In Context
- "External lumbar drainage was initiated to manage the persistent CSF leak following transsphenoidal surgery." — Neurosurgical operative note
- "The ELD system was set to drain 10 ml per hour with hourly neurological assessments." — Neurocritical care orders