Comparing Dexmedetomidine Plus Bupivacaine Versus Bupivacaine Alone for Pain Relief After Craniotomy Surgery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of dexmedetomidine as an addition to bupivacaine in scalp blocks compared to bupivacaine alone for managing pain after craniotomy surgery. This study focuses on adults aged 18 to 65 undergoing planned supratentorial craniotomies to better understand how adding dexmedetomidine might affect postoperative pain relief and physiological responses. Dexmedetomidine is a selective alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonist known for its potential to enhance pain control when combined with local anesthetics. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one group will receive a scalp block with bupivacaine alone, and the other will receive a scalp block with dexmedetomidine added to bupivacaine. Both treatments are delivered in the operating room as part of the anesthesia technique before surgery. This double-blind study ensures that neither the participants nor the researchers know which treatment is given. During the study, participants will be monitored for 24 hours after surgery. Researchers will assess cumulative morphine use, heart rate, blood pressure, pain levels, time until first rescue pain medication is needed, and any complications during this period. This monitoring helps understand how the treatments affect pain management and safety after craniotomy. The total participation includes surgery and the 24-hour postoperative observation.

Dexmedetomidine as an Adjuvant to Bupivacaine in Scalp Block Versus Bupivacaine Alone for Postoperative Pain Management in Patients Undergoing Craniotomy