The radiation records an image on photographic film or a special detector.ĭifferent parts of the body absorb the x-rays in varying degrees. The machine produces a small burst of radiation that passes through your body. The technologist carefully aims the x-ray beam at the area of interest.

X-rays pass through most objects, including the body. X-rays are a form of radiation like light or radio waves. If your child is having a lumbar puncture, you may be able to stay in the room during the procedure. See the Safety in X-ray, Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine Procedures page for more information about pregnancy and x-rays. If an x-ray is necessary, the doctor will take precautions to minimize radiation exposure to the baby. Doctors will not perform many tests during pregnancy to avoid exposing the fetus to radiation. Women should always tell their doctor and technologist The nurse will give you a gown to wear during the procedure. Plan to have someone drive you home after your procedure. Your doctor will tell you which medications you may take in the morning. Your doctor will likely tell you not to eat or drink anything after midnight before your procedure. Tell your doctor about recent illnesses or other medical conditions. You should tell your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin (Coumadin®), Pradaxa®, Heparin®, Lovenox®, clopidogrel (Plavix®) and over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen or naproxen. Your physician may advise you to stop taking aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or a blood thinner for a time before your procedure. You should report to your doctor all medications that you are taking, including herbal supplements, and if you have any allergies, especially to local anesthetic medications or to general anesthesia. This may be detected prior to performing the lumbar puncture using CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test will also help confirm the presence of increased intracranial pressure. You may also have a CT scan prior to the lumbar puncture to determine if there is abnormal swelling in and/or around your brain. Prior to your procedure, your doctor may test your blood to check your kidney function and to determine if your blood clots normally.

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