Bone marrow aspiration in resource poor environment: our experience in Kenya.

Bone marrow aspiration examination is performed mainly to evaluate haematological disorders. Several bone marrow aspiration needles are available that include the Salah, Klima, Jamshidi and Islam. However, cost is an issue in our local environment as most of our patients are not medically insured. We describe our experience of bone marrow aspiration using an 18-gauge lumbar puncture needle at the posterior superior iliac spine. The technique is safe and cost effective and the site is easily accessible, even in obese patients. The crush preparations provide good morphology, therefore avoiding repeats. Additional training is not required for the procedural technique. We recommend this technique for use in resource challenged settings.