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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Ultrastructure of Dural Lesions Produced in Lumbar Punctures

subject

description

During lumbar puncture, the insertion of a single-use, short-beveled spinal needle produces a “tent-like” effect. The dura-arachnoid lesions produced by this Quincke type of needles show a “crescent moon” shape resembling the letter “U” or “V” (similar to the lid of a can), with clean-cut edges. As the needle tip advances, the cut fragment is folded inwards, while all dural and arachnoid layers are entirely severed and the edges of the lesion are displaced inwardly. As soon as the spinal needle is withdrawn, the edges of the lesion tend to retract, owing to the viscoelastic properties of the affected dura mater.