Blood patch experience?
 

Hey guys,
I've been diagnosed with a Spontaneous Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak and after 6 long, painful months I'm finally booked in to have a blood patch on Wednesday. Just wondering if anyone has any experience with a CSF leak and/or a blood patch?
Thanks x

HI and Welcome,

You don't mention where the leak is, so I'll just tell you about my experience in hopes that it will be helpful.

I have had numerous blood patches (8) all due to spinal taps (LP's) that leaked...even utilizing all the precautions possible. The patch itself is simple: they take blood from the arm and immediately inject it into the area of the leak...mine of course bring the lower spine where the spinal taps where done. The relief is almost immediate as the CSF pressures begin to increase right away and the headache resolves.

Now, I will tell you that you can have some pressure on the back from the patch. It can lasts a few days...uncomfortable, but tolerable (no need for pain meds). It is still a good idea to stay kinda quiet for those first few days so the patch doesn't dislodge from the area of the leak and can make a good seal.

The entire procedure takes no more then 20 minutes, but they may have you lay still for a while after ward so it seals the leak.

Good luck, you'll be happy with the instant relief.

Thanks for your reply! Only reply I've really had on any of my posts finally haha! We don't know where the leak is :( and it's spontaneous that's why it's so confusing it's just appeared from no where! I've had 3 Mri's with and without contrast but haven't yet been able to identify a leak and I don't have any leaking from the nose or ear or any obvious signs of the leak. They're doing the blood patch on Weds just in the base of my spine, the neurology ward seems torn on the effectiveness of the blood patch though that's why I've had to wait so long to get it! But I've pushed to try it cause like you said I may feel instant relief and wow would that be amazing! Do they usually keep you in when you've had one? Cause he told me I wouldn't have to but they've sent me a letter saying I have a bed on the neurology ward booked again :/
Just confused about the whole thing cause even my neurologist hasn't seen it before and wasn't sure what to do! Left me with loads of unanswered questions!
Thanks again!

Go to the tab above and type in blood patch, hopefully there will be some matches and you will find the best area on this site for your issues. Try looking at the Spinal disorders and back pain section.