lumbar puncture in someone with scoliosis

I have scoliosis (40% curvature) and my neurologist has ordered a lumbar puncture to confirm a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.  I am told that space between vertebrae in my spine is very small and I am wondering about the dangers of a lumbar puncture.  Any advice would be appreciated.  Thank you.

CT

[Sunnytoday]

Hi! I don't think I've met you before,and if you are new to the forum, welcome! (If not, sorry for the cog fog) Check out the health pages link at the right top of the page, they are very helpful and answered a lot of my questions!

Hopefully some of the more "experienced" member will chime in and help answer your question... I was wondering the same thing actually because I will be going for a lumbar puncture this summer and have scoliosis also. Let us know how it goes!
~Sunnytoday~

[Heather3418]

Rarely does scoliosis affect the area of the spine where the spinal tap is done.  I know that your doctor is aware of your spinal problems and so will the radiologist that is doing the tap.

I would insist on a tap done using fluoroscopy so they can see EXACTLY where they need to go in, the first time.  It was much easier for me.

Rest assured that these people doing these taps will take your spinal problems into consideration.  The tap is very low in the spine.  Very low.

Let us know how things went.  My advice is drink plenty and I do mean plenty of fluid after your tap.  Include caffeine beverages.  Don't ask me why this works so well, but it does.  Rest easy the day of your tap and watch tv lying down all day.  No lifting or climbing stairs, until the spinal fluid that was withdrawn from your spine, has a chance to replenish itself.  This makes all the difference in the world...that's why it's so important to take into alot of fluids.  It helps stabilize things much quicker.

Best Wishes,
Heather

[6-paq]

I have mild scoliosis and had a spinal tap.  My neuro did it himself in his office.

I agree with Heather and ask to have it done using fluoroscopy (I did not).  Take her advice on the fluids and taking it easy!!!

I had quite a bit of lingering lower back pain for about 2 weeks or so after my spinal tap.  I think mine was more from lumbar spine back issues then the scoliosis though (I found out about my back issues after my spinal).

Don't worry, you'll be fine!!  

Take care, Pat :-)