Addendum to assessment: Prevention of post–lumbar puncture headaches [RETIRED]
Report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology
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Abstract
Review of the literature on prevention of post–lumbar puncture headaches (PLPHAs) since the publication of the original assessment in 2000 yielded one study comparing use of cutting to atraumatic needles in diagnostic lumbar punctures, providing Class I evidence in favor of the atraumatic needle. Taken in conjunction with data from most studies in the anesthesiology literature, the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee concluded that use of an atraumatic spinal needle in adult patient populations reduces the frequency of PLPHA (Level A recommendation). It affirmed a previous conclusion that smaller needle size is associated with reduced frequency of PLPHA (Level A recommendation).
This guideline is retired. The recommendations and conclusions are no longer considered valid and no longer supported by the AAN. Retired guidelines should be used for historical reference only. Please see AAN current guidelines here: https://www.aan.com/policy-and-guidelines/guidelines/.
Letters: Rapid online correspondence
- Reply to Pearl et al
- Carmel Armon, From the Division of Neurology, Baystate Medical Center, 759 Chestnut Street, Springfield, MA 01199-001Carmel.Armon@bhs.org
- and Randolph W. Evans. M.D. for the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee
Submitted November 15, 2005 - Addendum to assessment: Prevention of post–lumbar puncture headaches: Report of the Therapeutics and
- Phillip L. Pearl, Childrens National Medical Center, Dept. of Neurology; 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Suite W4-800; Washington, DC 20010-2970ppearl@cnmc.org
- William M. McClintock, Dept. Neurology, Children's National Medical Ctr, Washington, DC
Submitted November 15, 2005
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