Skip to content

Guided Percutaneous Lumbar Puncture with Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis for Drainage and Placement Confirmation

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test involves checking the placement of a drainage tube inserted into your spinal fluid area (lumbar puncture) and analyzing the fluid collected for further evaluation.

Quick summary

["Ensures your spinal fluid drainage is correctly positioned and helps assess fluid characteristics for medical decisions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
92571-9
Short code
CT Guided Pl space-R Drain+CT place
Synonyms
CT Guided Pl space-R Drain+CT place
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have a suspected spinal fluid collection (like a tumor, infection, or bleeding) or if a drainage tube needs verification after placement. It helps confirm the tube’s correct positioning and assesses fluid properties for diagnosis or treatment planning.

What to Expect During the Procedure

You’ll lie on your side with your knees bent. A small needle is inserted into your lower back to guide the drainage tube. Fluid is collected for analysis, and your doctor checks the tube’s placement using imaging or other methods.

Sample Collection and Testing Process

The collected cerebrospinal fluid is sent to the lab for analysis, which may include examining its appearance, pressure, and specific chemical or cellular components. Results help guide further medical care.

Common Uses and Clinical Relevance

This test supports diagnosing conditions like meningitis, spinal tumors, or bleeding in the spinal canal. It also helps monitor drainage effectiveness or adjust treatment plans based on fluid analysis.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Drainage & Placement Verification

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may indicate issues like infection, bleeding, or abnormal fluid chemistry, prompting further testing or treatment adjustments. Your doctor will discuss findings specific to your condition.
How long will it take to get results?
Lab results for fluid analysis typically take 1–3 business days, depending on complexity. Your doctor will contact you once results are available.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Common risks include mild headache, bruising, or discomfort at the injection site. Rarely, complications like infection or nerve damage may occur; your doctor will monitor you closely.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy