Lumbar cistern

Last revised by Candace Makeda Moore on 18 Dec 2020

The lumbar cistern refers to the subarachnoid space in the lower lumbar spinal canal.

The cistern is an enlargement of the subarachnoid space in the dural sac, distal to the conus medullaris. It contains cerebrospinal fluid and the nerve roots of the cauda equina. As the conus (usually) terminates at the level of the L2 vertebra, the cistern extends from L2 down to S2.

It is the cerebrospinal fluid within the lumbar cistern that is the target of lumbar puncture.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.