lumbar puncture
Pronunciation: LUM-bar PUNK-cher
Also written as: LP — lumbar puncture
A medical procedure involving insertion of a needle into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid.
Full Definition
A lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, is a diagnostic procedure in which a needle is inserted into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar spine to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid for analysis or to measure intracranial pressure. The procedure is typically performed between the L3-L4 or L4-L5 vertebrae, below the termination of the spinal cord. It is used to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders affecting the central nervous system.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as LP. Do not confuse with epidural procedures.
In Context
- "A lumbar puncture was performed to rule out bacterial meningitis given the patient's fever and neck stiffness." — Emergency department procedure note
- "Contraindications to lumbar puncture include suspected increased intracranial pressure and coagulopathy." — Clinical guideline