The Efficacy of Regional Scalp Block in Craniotomy

Compared to active comparator arm, the experimental arm received the same procedure except in the analgesia maintenance which was performed by nerve block of the scalp using 0.5% ropivacaine. However, during craniotomy surgery, pain may occur in patients in any arms. This was defined as a sudden rise of heart rate and blood pressure higher than 20% from baseline. In that case, a bolus of fentanyl was administered as rescue analgesia.

Compared to experimental arm, the active comparator arm received the same procedure except in the analgesia maintenance which was performed through continuous fentanyl infusion. However, during craniotomy surgery, pain may occur in patients in any arms. This was defined as a sudden rise of heart rate and blood pressure higher than 20% from baseline. In that case, a bolus of fentanyl was administered as rescue analgesia.