Lumbar Puncture Complications

Clinical Negligence Claims If It Goes Wrong

A lumbar puncture is a medical procedure which involves a needle inserted into the spine to collect fluid and there is a risk of lumbar puncture complications. Also known as a spinal tap, this procedure is performed to collect spinal fluid for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes.

But if the required standard of medical care is not met, a patient may be entitled to file a clinical negligence claim. Examples include performing a lumbar puncture when it is contraindicated or when there is poor infection control. Other issues include or incorrect needle placement causing nerve damage or not properly informing a patient about the risks.

However, in order to make a clinical negligence claim, you should be able to show that you suffered harm directly linked to the breach in care. Additionally, that the harm resulted in measurable damage, such as a prolonged stay in hospital, disability or loss.

Jefferies Claims may be able to help you with a medical negligence claim. Our team works with experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis.

Common Lumbar Puncture Complications

Post-Lumbar Puncture Headache

One of the most common complications is a headache, occurring in about 10-30% of patients. This headache is typically due to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage from the puncture site. Symptoms generally include a bad headache, dizziness nausea and neck stiffness.

Infection

While the risk of infection is small, it can include a localised skin infection at the puncture site. However, it may cause meningitis if bacteria are introduced into the CSF, or a potential epidural abscess.

Bleeding

Bleeding may occur, particularly in patients with coagulation disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications. In rare cases, an epidural hematoma may compress the spinal cord.

Nerve Damage

Although not common, direct needle trauma to spinal nerves can cause temporary or permanent nerve damage, leading to numbness, pain, or weakness in the lower limbs.

Back Pain

Temporary back pain at the site of the procedure is common. Persistent pain, though rare, may indicate nerve irritation or hematoma formation.

Indications for a Lumbar Puncture

A lumbar puncture is performed for diagnostic and therapeutic reasons. This may be to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis or cancers of the nervous system, among others. As a therapeutic tool, it may be used to administer medication, such as chemotherapy or antibiotics.

Medical professionals should be aware that performing a Lumbar Puncture, any contraindications are carefully assessed to avoid complications.

Do You Have A Clinical Negligence Claim?

A clinical negligence claim can be filed if you suffer harm due to improper medical care. To succeed in a claim related to a lumbar puncture, you must prove that there was a breach of duty in the standard of care being provided. You would need to also provide evidence linking the breach to harm you have suffered.

This covers performing a lumbar puncture when this was contraindicated or the needle being placed incorrectly causing harm. Moreover, not informing the patient of potential risks or failure to follow techniques to avoid infection may also be considered a breach.

Filing A Clinical Negligence Claim

If you believe you have suffered due to an improperly conducted lumbar puncture, your immediate course of action would be to seek medical advice. You can request your medical records to provide evidence of negligence. It is also advisable to get an expert medical opinion, while you should document any medical expenses and financial losses.

As clinical medical negligence can be complicated, you should consult with a lawyer with considerable knowledge about claims in this field. At Jefferies Claims, we work with highly experienced lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis and your information remains confidential.

Contact Jefferies Claims today at 0333 358 3034 or complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation telephone consultation.