Numbing the scalp before brain surgery may reduce pain and opioid use

This study tested whether a scalp nerve block given before brain surgery works better than standard opioid painkillers for controlling pain during and after the operation. Sixty-two adults having brain tumor surgery were randomly assigned to receive either a scalp nerve block or morphine. The researchers measured heart rate, blood pressure, pain scores, and opioid use in the first 24 hours. The goal was to see if the nerve block provides more stable vital signs and less pain with fewer side effects.