Lumbar Punch

[GallardoOwner]

Has anybody had this treatment ? Its been suggested that maybe I should but I had always heard it was a bit nasty but doctor did not agree that to be the case.

[Rollin]

Assuming you mean a lumbar puncture, then it depends on the reason it is being suggested. If that reason outweighs the "bit nasty" side then you will have it done.

[E21_Ross]

not had it done myself, but know what it entails. often these days they will use an anaesthetic, but you don't need it. it's not pleasant but it won't be the worst pain of your life.

just tuck the knees in, flex your back and wait.....

any idea what it's for (no sarcastic comment saying "to withdraw CS fluid" )

[mrsxllifts]

I had it done about 10 years ago when I had suspected meningitis. From reading/hearing other people, I think I must have had a butcher do it! Had no pain relief and it was the most painful thing I have ever had aside from 'the paddles' whilst conscious! I remember sitting on the bed in a ball, and when he said 'all done, you can get back into bed now' I could move! The pain was that bad, I had gripped my legs with my arms that tightly, my muscles had locked. I hope for your sake, you get a better doctor and/or the procedure has changed. Good luck!

[Lois]

Not had it done myself but I've seen many premature babies have it done...man up!

[The_Doc]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lumbar_puncture

it's not a treatment

let no bugger stick needles into your spinal column unless you really need it

not to be confused with: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spinal_Tap_(band)

[E21_Ross]

no, but it is a good diagnostic for many things, infection, bleeding etc as you obviously know.

surely it can't be that damaging, if at all? those cells of the choroid plexuses (plexi...plural?!) produce CSF every day in the ventricles.....

[The_Doc]

1.vertebral cord


2. blood, infection, scar, dural tear, pseudomeningocele



Do you want 'group two' near 'group one' unnecessarily?

[T_Pot]

I had it done a couple of years ago when i had meningitis.

Provided the anesthetic is adminstrated correctly, you will only feel a dull preassure in your lower back during the procedure.
However, it took over a year for the dull back pain to go away.

Its not a terrible pain, more unconfortable and not always there either.

Given the results they only achieve from it, while its unpleasant, its worth doing

[E21_Ross]

The_Doc said:

1.vertebral cord


2. blood, infection, scar, dural tear, pseudomeningocele



Do you want 'group two' near 'group one' unnecessarily?

no, but you should hope that he is/may be having it done nearer necessity, than not a necessity.