Cutting needles versus cutting edge technology

Abstract Lumbar puncture (LP) procedures are commonly performed for diagnostic purposes by neurologists and emergency physicians, intrathecal local anesthesthetic administration spinal anesthesia anesthesiologists. Complications include post-dural headache, meningitis, epidural hematoma neurological injury. A recent article Ertas et al in the Journal of Clinical Neurology Neurosurgery highlights risks intervertebral disc injury during LP. Disc injury, has been shown to initiate degenerative chances animal models. During an LP degree damage is probably determined force applied, nature diameter needle. It perhaps time reprise evidence concerning needle choice incidence complications. range traumatic (cutting) atraumatic (pencil point) needles have developed a variety sizes. At present there no that reduce back pain. large body shows easy use associated with lower do not increase rates failure or As result, almost universal. Adoption neurology practice slow patchy. We challenge our colleagues follow recommendations several international guidelines, including those American Academy Neurology, incorporate narrower gauge benefit their patients.