Modified auriculotemporal nerve block for pain management in brain surgery

Safety and Analgesic Efficacy of a Modified Auriculotemporal Nerve Block: a Prospective, Randomized, Double-blind, Traditional Controlled Study

NA · Tongji Hospital · NCT05556889

This study is testing a new way to block pain during brain surgery to see if it can help patients feel better with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment252 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorTongji Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Wuhan, Hubei)
Trial IDNCT05556889 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the safety and analgesic efficacy of a modified auriculotemporal nerve block in patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy. The modified technique aims to reduce the amount of local anesthetic used while minimizing complications such as temporary facial nerve paralysis. By comparing this new method to the traditional approach, the study will assess its impact on perioperative hemodynamics, postoperative pain relief, and recovery quality. The goal is to enhance patient outcomes during and after brain surgery.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-65 undergoing elective supratentorial craniotomy under general anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients with emergency surgery needs, severe comorbidities, or contraindications to local anesthetics may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved pain management and faster recovery for patients undergoing brain surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using modified nerve blocks for pain management, suggesting potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Patients undergoing supratentorial craniotomy under general anesthesia;
2. 18-65 years old;
3. ASA I or II.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Emergency surgery;
2. Be allergic to ropivacaine;
3. Participating in other clinical investigation within 30 days;
4. Skin infection at the puncture site;
5. Patients taking analgesic drugs before surgery;
6. Persons addicted to alcohol or drugs;
7. Patients with severe liver and kidney dysfunction;
8. Patients with coagulation disorder;
9. Pregnant and lactating women;
10. Patients with consciousness disorder before surgery;
11. Those who have undergone neurosurgery within the last 6 months;
12. Patients who were unable to understand the NRS before surgery.

Where this trial is running

Wuhan, Hubei

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Safety and Efficacy, Scalp Nerve Block, Auriculotemporal nerve block, Scalp nerve block, safety and efficacy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.