A spinal needle is a type of hollow needle that is thin and sterile and is used to access the lower spine for procedures such as spinal anesthesia and spinal tap or lumbar puncture. The needle is designed to have a sharp end and is often colored and transparent to help doctors observe spinal fluid movement. The needle is available in two different forms: cutting or Quincke and pencil point or Whitacre/Sprotte, which help minimize tissue damage and headache post-procedure.