A Randomized Study Evaluating the Incidence of Post Lumbar Puncture Headache With Atraumatic Needles in Hematology

Lumbar punctures (LP) are implemented for the diagnosis of patients with hematologic symptoms as well as for the intrathecal chemotherapy injections. Post lumbar puncture headache (PLPH) is a common complication in around 30% of patients. PLPH is characterized by the occurrence of a headache with an orthostatic component within 12-72 hours after LP with additional symptoms such as nausea. Even if this phenomenon spontaneously resolves within 3 to 5 days, symptoms can immobilize the patient and can interfere with his daily activities. Technical procedures largely influence the incidence of PLPH. Indeed, some studies in neurology, anesthesia and gynecology have previously shown a decreased incidence for PLHP while using atraumatic needles as compared to standard needles. So far, few data are available for hematology. In this context, it is necessary to better document the incidence of PLPH with the use of atraumatic needles in hematologic patients.

Inclusion criteria

• Patients with hematologic syndromes undergoing a diagnostic lumbar puncture
• Signed written informed consent form
• Patient affiliated to a social security regimen or beneficiary of the same

Exclusion criteria

• Any known contraindication for the lumbar puncture procedure: increased intracranial pressure, blood clotting disorder, thrombocytopenia
• Any known infection
• Patient with a Body Mass index < 18 or Body Mass index > 40
• Any patient that requires an ultrasound guided lumbar puncture
• Patient that underwent a lumbar puncture within 6 months
• Patient under guardianship or deprived of his liberty or any condition that may affect the patient's ability to understand and sign the informed consent (art. L.1121-6, L.112-7, L.1211-8, L.1211-9)
• Refusing participation
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding women