What is a spinal tap?

A spinal tap, also known as a lumbar puncture, is a medical procedure that involves inserting a thin needle into the spinal canal to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord and helps protect them.

A spinal tap is typically performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic and takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. The patient is usually positioned lying on their side with their knees and head bent towards the chest. The doctor will then insert a local anesthetic into the skin and underlying tissue to numb the area. Once the area is numb, the doctor will use a spinal needle to enter the spinal canal and collect a sample of CSF.

The CSF sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results of the analysis can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including infections, bleeding, tumors, and other disorders of the brain and spinal cord.

Spinal taps are generally considered to be safe, but there are some potential risks, including bleeding, infection, and headache. However, these risks are rare and most patients recover quickly from the procedure.