Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children

Abstract

Objective: Lumbar punctures in children are generally performed in a flexed position. Published normal ranges for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) opening pressure require measurement in an extended position, and flexion is known to increase lumbar CSF pressure. This study sought to determine a normal range (mean +/- 2 SD) for lumbar CSF opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children.

Methods: Opening pressure was measured in 33 children receiving diagnostic lumbar punctures or prophylactic intrathecal chemotherapy. Measurements were performed in a flexed lateral decubitus position. Patients with medical conditions affecting CSF pressure were excluded.

Results: Opening pressure (mean +/- SD) was 19.0 +/- 4.4 cm H2O. Opening pressure was not significantly affected by patient age or sex. Intrathecal chemotherapy and sedation also did not affect CSF pressure.

Conclusions: The normal range for lumbar CSF opening pressure measured in a flexed lateral decubitus position in children is 10 to 28 cm H2O.