Lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is performed to collect a sample of spinal fluid or check the pressure of fluid in the spinal cord. Our radiologists will use X-ray imaging to precisely guide the procedure. Your doctor may have requested this procedure to find a cause for symptoms you have been experiencing. Lumbar puncture helps to diagnose problems including:
- Bacterial, fungal and viral infections, including meningitis, encephalitis and syphilis
- Bleeding around the brain
- Cancers involving the brain and spinal cord
- Inflammatory conditions of the nervous system, including Guillain-Barre syndrome and multiple sclerosis
Diagnostic Lumbar Puncture is available at the following Advanced Radiology locations
Call to Schedule: 203-386-3164
Fairfield – 1055 Post Road
Orange – 297 Boston Post Road
Stamford – 1259 E Main Street
Stratford – 2876 Main Street, performed in Advanced Interventional Radiology department
Trumbull – 15 Corporate Drive
Preparation
During this procedure, a needle is inserted between two vertebrae to remove or measure cerebrospinal fluid—the fluid that surrounds your brain and spine. You will be given a local anesthetic.
No preparation is required. No aspirin or blood thinners to be taken 5 days prior to the procedure.