Last Updated on March 13, 2025 by tanya

Lumbar Puncture Complications

 

Considering A Medical Negligence Claim?

A lumbar puncture is a relatively common medical procedure, but like any procedure there may be lumbar puncture complications. This procedure involves inserting a needle into the lower spine to collect spinal fluid. This is used for diagnostic and therapeutic testing. While most patients may suffer from a temporary headache or possibly a bit of back pain, there can be serious and long-term complications.

If you’ve had a lumbar puncture that caused you harm due to medical negligence, you may have a claim. First Personal Injury may be able to help you.

 

Long-Term Complications of a Lumbar Puncture

While most people recover from a lumbar puncture without lasting effects, some patients may end up dealing with more long-lasting complications. Some potential long-term problems can include:

 

Chronic Headaches

One of the most common aftereffects of a lumbar puncture is a spinal headache. This happens because the needle can create a small leak in the membrane surrounding the spinal cord. This leads to a drop in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure.

While the majority of these headaches clear with rest and hydration, some may persist for weeks or even months.

 

Nerve Damage and Chronic Pain

If the needle hits a nerve or causes trauma to the spinal cord, you could experience long-term nerve damage. Symptoms can involve persistent pain at the puncture site, or radiating pain down the legs. You may also experience a numbness or tingling in the lower body or muscle weakness.

 

Infection and Meningitis

Infections are rare, but if they happen, they can be serious. If bacteria get into the spinal canal during the procedure, it can lead to meningitis. Long-term effects of meningitis can include chronic pain and stiffness, cognitive issues such as memory loss, or hearing or vision problems.

 

Spinal Hematoma

This is when blood pools around the spinal cord, leading to pressure and potentially serious complications. If not treated rapidly, a spinal hematoma can cause permanent nerve damage and even paralysis.

 

Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak

In some cases, the small hole made by the needle doesn’t heal properly, leading to a persistent CSF leak. This can cause prolonged headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even balance problems.

 

What Can Go Wrong During a Lumbar Puncture?

If the medical professional performing the lumbar puncture is not skilled, they may insert the needle at the wrong angle. Alternatively they may go too deep or damage spinal structure, or fail to properly sterilise the area. If an oversized needle is used this can increase the risk of CSF leaks and headaches.

There are also certain situations when a lumbar puncture should be avoided, such as if a patient has high intracranial pressure. The medical team should also monitor for complications such as CSF leaks or nerve damage. Delayed treatment can make the problem much worse.

 

When Can You File a Medical Negligence Claim?

If you’ve suffered serious harm due to a lumbar puncture, you might be able to claim medical negligence. This may include if the procedure was performed incorrectly or you were not informed properly about the risks.

Another factor is if the lumbar puncture was carried out when it should not have been, or if complications were left untreated. Using the correct needle also reduces the risk of post procedure headaches and larger out of date needles should not be used without reason.

 

How to Start a Medical Negligence Claim

If you think you’ve been harmed due to negligence, you will have to show that the harm you have suffered is directly linked to the negligence. To make a claim you will need your medical records, as well as a second opinion. Make sure you gather evidence such as documenting your symptoms and any financial losses.

Your next step will be to consult with a medical negligence lawyer who can assess your case.

 

We partner with highly experienced lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Contact First Personal Injury today at 0333 358 2345. Alternatively, you can complete our online contact form to schedule an initial, no-obligation consultation with a member of our expert team.