A randomized, double-blind clinical trial comparing the 22 versus 26 gauge needle in the production of the post-lumbar puncture syndrome in normal individuals.

THE MULTITUDE of factors involved in the etiology of the post-lumbar puncture headache (PPH) were surveyed in a previous monograph.1 That study indicated several factors to be of prime importance, including needle size, sex, and age. The present study was designed to evaluate. more precisely the effect of needle size on the production of the PPH. Sex differences in the incidence of PPH are also examined. A review of previous studies in this field is given in the monograph cited and will not be repeated here. Some further references may be found in a study by Gilland2 dealing with the probable usefulness of a waist belt in combating the PPH.