Numbing the scalp may beat opioids for brain surgery pain

NCT ID NCT07425678

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a scalp nerve block (injecting numbing medicine into the scalp) controls pain better than morphine during and after brain surgery. 62 adults having brain tumor surgery were randomly assigned to receive either a scalp block or morphine. Researchers measured heart rate, blood pressure, pain scores, and opioid use. The goal is to find a safer, more effective way to manage pain and reduce opioid-related side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
scalp nerve block (injection of lidocaine and ropivacaine) versus morphine
What this could lead to
If scalp nerve block works better, it could offer a safer way to manage pain during brain surgery, reducing opioid side effects and speeding recovery.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed Phase 4 trial with only 62 participants. Results may not apply to all patients or settings, and nerve blocks carry their own risks like infection or incomplete pain relief.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Aga Khan University Hospital

    Karachi, Sindh, 74800, Pakistan