Straight to the point: an updated technique for performing lumbar puncture safely in obese patients

Abstract

Introduction: Lumbar puncture is an essential tool in any medical practitioner’s repertoire – both surgeon and physician alike. With a rising trend in obesity, the procedure can be technically challenging.

Methods: Here we present 12 cases where an updated version of lumbar puncture using an introducer is used for patients with a large body habitus.

Results: The procedure was successful in all 12 patients with only one patient requiring a second attempt. All 12 patients gave positive feedback for the procedure.

Conclusion: Performing lumbar puncture in obese patients using this updated technique is a safe, successful and cost-effective technique.

Keywords:

• CSF
• lumbar
• hydrocephalus
• diagnostic

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).