SMöLTAP is a medical device intended for use by qualified healthcare professionals. The information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.
If your baby has a high FEVER, emergency room physicians may need to perform a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to rule out Meningitis.
When a newborn develops a fever or shows signs of serious infection, doctors may recommend a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to rule out life-threatening conditions like Meningitis.
It’s a test designed to protect your baby — and understanding it ahead of time gives you peace of mind.
What Is a Spinal Tap?
A spinal tap collects a small amount of fluid from the lower spine to test for infection. In newborns, this test is often done quickly when there is a fever — because babies can become critically ill in hours.
Why It Can Be Difficult
- The experience can be stressful for parents and care teams.
- Newborn anatomy is delicate.
- Movement can affect success.
- Multiple attempts may be required.
Infant lumbar procedures have remained virtually unchanged since 1890 – until now.
Make sure your hospital uses SMöLTAP.
While spinal taps have saved lives for decades, the tools used to position infants during the procedure have changed very little.
SMöLTAP was developed with industrial design and neonatal care experts to improve stability, positioning accuracy, and first-attempt success — helping reduce unnecessary stress during urgent situations.
You Can Advocate for Your Baby
If your baby ever needs a lumbar puncture, you can ask:
“Does this hospital use SMöLTAP for infant spinal taps?”
It’s okay to ask questions.
It’s okay to request the safest available tools.
It’s okay to be prepared.