Spinal fluid pressure can be measured using a spinal tap in which a needle is in

Question

Spinal fluid pressure can be measured using a spinal tap in which a needle is inserted in the patient's lower back with the patient sitting upright on an examination table. The pressure due to the weight of the spinal fluid (given that its density is 1050 kg/m^3) in the spinal column increases the pressure. (a) What is the pressure measured if the pressure around the brain is 10 mm Hg and the tap is at a point 75 cm lower than the brain? (b) What is the pressure measured if the person is lying down?

Explanation / Answer

a) 1 mmHg = 133.3 Pa 10 mmHg = 1333 Pa P = 10mm Hg + density*g*h = 1333 + 1050*9.8*0.75 = 9050.5 Pa = 67.9 mm Hg b) if person is lying down pressure will be just 10mm Hg since pressure doesnt vary horizontally

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