No serious complications occurred in a case series of 100 patients.
Clinicians understandably are concerned about bleeding complications — especially epidural hematoma — when lumbar puncture (LP) is performed in patients who are receiving dual antiplatelet therapy. In this retrospective review, Mayo Clinic researchers identified 100 patients who underwent LP while they were taking aspirin and clopidogrel. At least 3 months of follow-up information was available in all cases.
No epidural hematomas or other serious complications occurred. Twelve patients had traumatic LPs, according to red blood cell counts in spinal fluid.
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresNothing to disclose
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Comment
Lumbar puncture was performed safely in these patients who were receiving dual antiplatelet therapy; the proportion with traumatic LPs was simi…