Pump-Regulated Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage

Abstract

The drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the lumbar subarachnoid space is an effective technique for the treatment of CSF fistula and control of intracranial pressure in children and adults. The use of the lumbar drain poses unique challenges, however, in the pediatric population. We present a safe and effective method of pump-controlled lumbar subarachnoid drainage. This technique allows accurate titration of CSF removal while providing a closed system which is not sensitive to position changes or patient activity. Four case histories are reviewed.

Lumbar drainage for control of raised cerebrospinal fluid pressure in cryptococcal meningitis: case report and review

“…22 Pump-regulated lumbar drainage has been described in children, providing accurate control of drainage and also allowing the patient to move more freely. 23 It is our experience that serial lumbar punctures are often inadequate to control severely raised CSF pressure in cryptococcal meningitis. If CSF pressure is not rapidly controlled with serial lumbar puncture, a temporary lumbar drain may be much more effective, although not without risk.…”

Otolaryngologic Uses for Spinal Drains

“…• Some authors have developed novel methods of drainage in an attempt to improve patient care and safety. One such method was described by Vender et al, 17 who used pump-regulated drainage in a pediatric population. With this technique, the lumbar drain is connected to an intravenous infusion pump.…”