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 elective brain tumor surgery were randomly assigned to receive either a scalp nerve block or morphine. The researchers measured heart rate, blood pressure, and pain scores to see which method provided more stable vital signs and better pain relief with fewer side effects.