Nerve block may cut opioid needs after epilepsy device surgery

NCT ID NCT07689617

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Firat University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 08, 2026 · Last updated Jul 09, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether an ultrasound-guided nerve block (intermediate cervical plexus block) using bupivacaine can reduce pain and the need for opioid painkillers after vagus nerve stimulator implantation. Adults with drug-resistant epilepsy scheduled for this surgery are randomly assigned to receive either the nerve block or a placebo injection. The main goal is to measure total morphine use in the first 24 hours after surgery, along with pain scores and recovery time.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: bupivacaine
What this could lead to: If effective, this nerve block could become a standard way to manage pain after VNS surgery, reducing reliance on opioids.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial (52 people). The block may not significantly reduce pain or opioid use, and carries risks like bleeding or infection.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Drug Resistant Epilepsy epilepsy Pain, Postoperative

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

DRUG RESISTANT EPILEPSY EPILEPSY VAGUS NERVE STIMULATION

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Fırat University Faculty of Medicine Hospital

Elâzığ, Elâzığ, 23100, Turkey (Türkiye)

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