SIDE-EFFECTS AND RISKS OF LUMBAR PUNCTURE

Serious complications after lumbar puncture (herniation of the cerebellum, subdural hematoma, intraspinal hemorrhage, compression of a spinal tumor, injury of the spinal cord, infection) are rare. Important is a CT scan to minimize the risk of herniation. Palsy of the abducens nerve and hearing loss can appear occasionally. About 40% of patients suffer from a typical post-lumbar puncture headache. These symptoms are caused by low intracranial pressure secondary to CSF loss. Side effects and risks of the lumbar puncture can be minimized by use of an atraumatic needle (Sprotte). In a prospective study with this needle we observed typical post-lumbar puncture headache in only 2.5 up to 6.5% of patients.