Study of Scalp Block to Reduce Headache After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in Critically Ill Adults Undergoing Endovascular Treatment

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to evaluate the effect of scalp blocks on reducing headaches in patients who have suffered an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage aSAH and are undergoing endovascular treatment of their aneurysm. aSAH is a serious neurological condition caused mostly by ruptured brain aneurysms, leading to significant health complications and a high rate of headache-related hospital readmissions. There is currently limited evidence guiding the management of these headaches, which can persist for years and impact quality of life and recovery. The study compares two groups one receiving a scalp block with 20 ml of 0.5% Levobupivacaine administered after the endovascular procedure but before extubation, alongside conventional pain management and a control group receiving only conventional analgesic therapy, including regular intravenous paracetamol and fentanyl patient-controlled analgesia. The scalp block targets specific nerves around the scalp to potentially alleviate headache pain. This is a single-center, randomized controlled trial. Participants will be monitored for total opioid consumption and pain scores in the first 24 hours after receiving the scalp block or conventional therapy. Researchers will assess the impact of the block on headache severity and opioid use. The study involves critical care monitoring in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit, with safety checks for allergic reactions or complications. The total participation duration centers around the immediate post-procedure period and the first day afterward to measure outcomes.

Efficacy of Scalp Block in Managing Post Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Headache in Critically Ill Patients. A Single Centre Randomized Controlled Trial