Lumbar puncture
Medical term · L
A procedure in which a hollow needle is inserted into the lower part of the spinal canal to withdraw fluid for testing. Also called a spinal tap.
Related terms
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Spinal tapUse of a hollow needle to withdraw fluid from the lower part of the spinal canal for testing. Also called a lumbar puncture.
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Lower esophageal sphincterA ring of muscle where the esophagus and stomach meet. It relaxes to let food into the stomach and closes to prevent stomach acids from backing up and irritating the esophagus.
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Lumbar spineThe lower portion of the spine. It includes the five lowermost bones (vertebrae) of the spine and is the start of the lower back.