Question

Which of the following statements regarding lumbar puncture is FALSE?

a. the needle enters the spinal cavity
b. the needle enters the space between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae
c. the procedure poses a risk of injury to the spinal cord
d. the procedure does not present a risk of spinal cord injury

Answer 1

A lumbar puncture is performed in the lower lumbar area of the vertebral column because the spinal cord does not extend through this region, reducing the risk of spinal cord injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

A lumbar puncture is a medical procedure used to sample the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It involves inserting a needle into the subarachnoid space in the lower lumbar area of the vertebral column.

The lumbar region is chosen because the spinal cord does not extend through this area, reducing the risk of spinal cord injury during the procedure. By inserting the needle through the dura and arachnoid layers, CSF can be withdrawn without damaging the central tissue of the spinal cord.

In summary, the statement that is FALSE regarding lumbar puncture is: d. the procedure does not present a risk of spinal cord injury.