WHAT IS A LUMBAR DRAIN?
A lumbar drain is a thin, soft, flexible tube (catheter) that is inserted through the lining (dura) of the spinal cord in the lower back (lumbar area). The spinal cord and the brain (central nervous system) are surrounded by clear fluid (cerebrospinal fluid or CSF), which nourishes and protects the central nervous system. The lumbar drain is used to drain CSF fluid from the spinal canal.
WHY IS A LUMBAR DRAIN NEEDED?
A lumbar drain may be needed to remove CSF or monitor the pressure of CSF. By draining the CSF, the pressure around the brain and spinal cord is decreased. This decrease in pressure can allow for healing of tears in the lining of the dura. You may need a lumbar drain after a traumatic injury,
