punktio

Punktio is a term derived from the Greek words "punctus" meaning "point" and "io" meaning "to go." It refers to the act of puncturing or piercing a surface, often for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. In medical contexts, punktio is commonly used to describe the insertion of a needle into a specific body site to access bodily fluids, such as blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), for analysis or treatment.

One of the most well-known types of punktio is lumbar puncture, which involves inserting a needle into the lumbar region of the spine to withdraw CSF from the subarachnoid space. This procedure is used to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, and subarachnoid hemorrhage. Another example is heel punktio, where a needle is inserted into the heel to collect blood for testing, often used in newborn screening.

Punktio is typically performed under sterile conditions to prevent infection. The procedure may be guided by imaging techniques such as ultrasound to ensure accurate needle placement. Post-procedure, patients may experience temporary discomfort or bruising at the puncture site, and in some cases, may require pain management.

Punktio should be performed by trained healthcare professionals to minimize risks and ensure accurate results. It is an essential diagnostic and therapeutic tool in various medical specialties, including neurology, pediatrics, and hematology.