Are you scared when you hear about a spinal tap? Let's learn exactly what a Spinal Tap (Lumbar Puncture) is!

Has your doctor told you or someone you know to have a spinal tap? It's normal for many people to be a little scared when they hear the name. The fear we get when we hear the word "spinal tap" is understandable. But what is it really? Why is this test done? Is it really dangerous? Don't worry, we'll talk about all this clearly and simply today.

What is a Spinal Tap (Lumbar Puncture)?

Simply put, a Spinal Tap is a special test that doctors perform. In this, a thin needle is inserted into the lower part of our spine, to be exact, at the waist, and a small sample of a special fluid that surrounds our brain and spinal cord is taken. This fluid is called Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) .

Imagine that our brain and the spinal cord inside the spine are two very delicate and valuable organs. This CSF fluid acts like a cushion around these organs and protects them from harm. By examining this fluid, we can find information about many diseases in our Central Nervous System. That is why this test is sometimes very important.

Why do you need to do this test?

There are several reasons why a doctor might order this test. The main reason is to rule out other serious causes of a condition like epilepsy .

For example, if someone is having seizures, it is important to investigate whether the cause is a brain infection.

• Meningitis: This is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain.
• Encephalitis : This means an infection of the brain itself.

The best way to know for sure if you have this type of infection is to test the CSF fluid.

Other reasons besides testing

In addition to examining CSF fluid, a spinal tap may be done for several other reasons.

• Measure the pressure around the brain and spinal cord.
• Reduce excessive pressure inside the head.
• Inject medicine to numb the spine (Spinal Anesthesia).
• Insert a special dye before tests such as X-rays.
• Some medications, such as Baclofen, are given directly into the spinal cord.

What happens before and during the test?

Being aware of what will happen before and during this test will go a long way in reducing your fear.

How to prepare for the test

• Eating and drinking: You usually don't need to stop eating and drinking before this test, but follow your doctor's instructions.
• Medications you are taking: If you are taking blood thinners (e.g., Aspirin, Clopidogrel) or any other medications, be sure to tell your doctor . You may be asked to stop taking them a few days before the test.
• Allergies: If you have any allergies to latex or any other medications, please let us know in advance.
• Transportation: Since it is not advisable to drive directly after the test, it is best and safest to have someone drive you home.

How to do the test step by step

This is done by having you lie down on a bed in a ward or a special room.

1. Position: You will be told to lie on your side on the bed, with your knees as close to your chest as possible, and your chin tucked in. Curled up like a small ball. Or, you will be told to lean forward on a table. This position increases the space between the vertebrae of your spine, making it easier to insert the needle.

2. Cleaning: Next, the doctor or nurse will thoroughly clean your lower back with an antiseptic solution.

3. Numbness: Then, a small injection (local anesthetic) is injected into the area where the needle was inserted to numb it. You may feel a slight burning sensation at this point. After a while, the area will be completely numb.

4. Insertion of the needle: After numbing, a very thin, hollow needle is inserted between two of the lower vertebrae of the spine. At this point, you may feel a slight pressure. The most important thing is that this needle does not hit the spinal cord in the spine. Don't worry about that at all. The spinal cord is located much higher than that.

5. Aspiration: Once the needle is in place, the CSF fluid is slowly collected drop by drop. This takes a few minutes. You will not feel any pain during this time.

6. Finishing: After the required amount of liquid has been taken, the needle is removed and a small plaster is applied to the area.

What do you do after the test?

After the test is complete, you will be kept under medical supervision for a few hours. Before you go home, a nurse will give you written instructions to follow at home.

What are the possible side effects?

Although this is a safe test in most cases, sometimes minor problems can occur.

• Headache: This is the most common side effect. About 10% - 20% of people may experience a headache. This is especially worse when standing up or lying down. It decreases when lying down.
• Infection: The risk of infection is very low because this is done in a very clean, germ-free manner.
• Bleeding: Sometimes a small blood vessel can be injured when the needle is inserted. If this happens, a little bleeding may occur, but it does not require any special treatment.
• Pain: Usually not painful, but if the stinger touches a nerve, you may feel a brief, electric-like pain.

Things to take care of when you go home

• After the examination , lie down as flat as possible until the doctor tells you to.
• Avoid exercising or lifting weights for a day or two.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juice. Drinking about 2.5 liters a day will help prevent headaches.
• If you have a headache, lie down as much as possible and drink fluids. But if the headache lasts more than two or three days, call your doctor.

It may take a day or even a week for the test results (reports) to arrive. Your doctor will explain this to you.

Spinal Tap, Lumbar Puncture, Epilepsy, Meningitis, CSF Test, Headache