Rorie
08-26-2005, 09:26 AM
I just thought I'd write this because I've read so many horror stories and I'm hoping I can help someone not be too afraid if they have to have a spinal tap.
I had mine Monday...it was a surprise. I went to see my neurologist two hours away, and he said he would like me to have one done and did I want to do it right now since I travelled so far? At first I said no because I wasn't prepared, but decided maybe that was best. I only knew I was going to have it for about 5 minutes! Ny neuro is in a neurological disorder building, and I just went downstairs and had it done!
It was a very pleasant experience for a procedure like that. The neuroradiologist used a fluoroscopy machine to guide him where to poke and he used a very very small needle that my neurologist said makes all the difference in the world. I laid flat on my stomach and it was over in literally 3 or 4 minutes. Not any pain, just a little poke and minor burning. I laid down for 24 hours, and I've been fine.
So, it's not always a horrible thing. I think if I had to have another one, I would ask my doctor if they were going to use fluoroscopy and a very tiny needle to make sure it was less of a chance of problems.
I would not be afraid to have another one...just trying to help someone not be nervous if you have to have one. I know every experience is a little different though!
I had mine Monday...it was a surprise. I went to see my neurologist two hours away, and he said he would like me to have one done and did I want to do it right now since I travelled so far? At first I said no because I wasn't prepared, but decided maybe that was best. I only knew I was going to have it for about 5 minutes! Ny neuro is in a neurological disorder building, and I just went downstairs and had it done!
It was a very pleasant experience for a procedure like that. The neuroradiologist used a fluoroscopy machine to guide him where to poke and he used a very very small needle that my neurologist said makes all the difference in the world. I laid flat on my stomach and it was over in literally 3 or 4 minutes. Not any pain, just a little poke and minor burning. I laid down for 24 hours, and I've been fine.
So, it's not always a horrible thing. I think if I had to have another one, I would ask my doctor if they were going to use fluoroscopy and a very tiny needle to make sure it was less of a chance of problems.
I would not be afraid to have another one...just trying to help someone not be nervous if you have to have one. I know every experience is a little different though!
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revlcb
08-26-2005, 09:30 AM
Hi Rorie,
Thanks for posting a positive LP experience. I'm due for one in likely under a month, so this is positive new. Thanks.
One thing. I'm wondering, is this an overnight procedure? How do you lay down for 24 hours without sitting in the seat of the car as well as getting up to use the bathroom and such?
Thanks for posting a positive LP experience. I'm due for one in likely under a month, so this is positive new. Thanks.
One thing. I'm wondering, is this an overnight procedure? How do you lay down for 24 hours without sitting in the seat of the car as well as getting up to use the bathroom and such?
lilc
08-26-2005, 07:12 PM
My neuro told me I would need to lie flat for 30 minutes afterwards (I stayed for 2 hours). What does seem important after that is that you keep your back straight (don't bend over or slouch) and that you lay down as much as possible for at least 24 hours.
I've not had an epidural but there was a thread not too long ago where folks answered that question (might have been my LP thread, around a month ago).
I agree with Rorie about the VERY THIN needle, that's what they used on me.
I've not had an epidural but there was a thread not too long ago where folks answered that question (might have been my LP thread, around a month ago).
I agree with Rorie about the VERY THIN needle, that's what they used on me.
Rorie
08-26-2005, 10:16 PM
They told me I could get up to use the bathroom & nothing else, except to get in the car to go home (and keep the seat reclined in the car). I was there 3 hours before I came home.
KelliD
08-26-2005, 10:25 PM
Rorie....I had the exact type of LP done! It DOES make all the difference!! I was scared because my sister had a "medieval" LP (LOL!) and it was bad.
I am glad you posted your experience and hope it will help others to not be afraid!!!
I am glad you posted your experience and hope it will help others to not be afraid!!!
LaDeeDa
08-28-2005, 10:27 AM
Wow! After all the horrible LP experiences I've seen posted here and on other boards, I thought I was the only one who DIDN'T have a terrible experience!
I've had 4 LP's. They've all been different degrees of discomfort, on a scale of 1 to 10, none were more than a 5. Honestly, none has been the excruciating nightmarish things I've read about. Would I have another? If the doctor determines I need it, sure!
Oh, and mine were all done with fluoroscopy. I think that's the key.
I've had 4 LP's. They've all been different degrees of discomfort, on a scale of 1 to 10, none were more than a 5. Honestly, none has been the excruciating nightmarish things I've read about. Would I have another? If the doctor determines I need it, sure!
Oh, and mine were all done with fluoroscopy. I think that's the key.