Scalp Blocks Effect on Postoperative Nausea & Vomiting After Craniotomy

Effect of Scalp Blocks on Postoperative Nausea & Vomiting & Recovery Profiles After Craniotomy: A Randomized, Double-Blind, and Controlled Study

In this study, the investigators hypothesize that preemptive scalp block in neurosurgical patients may decrease incidence of PONV after craniotomy through decreasing intraoperative inhalational agents' concentration and decreasing intraoperative opioids requirements, with better intraoperative hemodynamics and lesser recovery time

Patients will be recruited after admission to the hospital for surgery. Randomization will be performed using computer-generated random number tables in opaque sealed envelopes prepared by an anesthesiologist who will be not part of the study

Patients will be randomly divided into two groups using a computer generated random number chart. Group S received scalp block with 20 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine, whereas Group C received scalp block using 20 mL normal saline and will be considered as control group.

Inclusion Criteria:

• ASA I and II patients,
• aged 18 to 50 years,
• 70-80 kg,
• undergoing elective supratentorial craniotomy

Exclusion Criteria:

• patients under 18 years of age,
• pregnancy,
• emergency surgery,
• patients with a Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) less than 15,
• those with documented allergy to bupivacaine,
• regular communication not possible,
• Patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation (> 2 hours after end of surgery) will be also excluded