Neurology44 Videos

Having a lumbar puncture

Indications and contraindications ●Indications In children, primary emergency indications for lumbar puncture (LP) consist of the diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) infection or, less commonly, subarachnoid hemorrhage. LP is also used for diagnostic testing (eg, suspicion for idiopathic intracranial hypertension, Guillain-Barré, juvenile multiple sclerosis, or metabolic disease), administration of intrathecal medications, and spinal anesthesia.  […]

Neurologic Examination: Reflexes

REFLEX EXAMINATION Relaxation is critical during the reflex examination. Tendon reflexes are difficult to elicit when patients tense the muscles being tested. It is helpful to distract patients by engaging them in conversation while testing their reflexes. Tendon reflexes — The biceps, triceps, brachioradialis, knee (patellar), and ankle (Achilles) reflexes are the ones commonly tested. The joint […]

How to do a lumbar puncture

INTRODUCTION Lumbar puncture (LP) with examination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an important diagnostic tool for a variety of infectious and noninfectious neurologic conditions. The techniques, indications, contraindications, and complications of LP in adults will be reviewed here. Technique of LP in children and for spinal and other types of neuraxial anesthesia is discussed separately. […]