Marcación con ultrasonido para guiar la punción lumbar

Introduction

Lumbar puncture (LP) is an invasive procedure frequently used by neurologists as a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. However, its performance is usually based on surface anatomy that can be difficult or end up with failed attempts. The ultrasound (US)-guided LP is a bedside strategy that facilitates this procedure.

Objective

To present a description of the US-guided LP technique and to characterize the usefulness of its application in medical practice and different clinical contexts.

Methods

A non-systematic review of the literature was conducted. The description of the US-guided LP was performed based on this results and the experience of authors on the technique.

Results

Six articles were identified for the description. The US-guided PL is an easy, fast and very available technique. In pediatric patients and/or with a difficult spine anatomy, US-guided LP reduces the number of attempts, the number of failed procedures and the number of traumatic procedures.

Conclusions

US-guided LP is a strategy within the reach of neurologists with no contraindications or side effects and with clear benefits for patients who undergo to the procedure.