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Lumbar puncture
Cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord and brain. CSF protects the brain and spinal cord from injury by acting like a liquid cushion. CSF is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). During the procedure, a needle is inserted usually between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae and the CSF fluid is collected for testing
Update Date: 1/31/2002 Updated by: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |