Effects of scalp block with bupivacaine versus levobupivacaine on haemodynamic response to head pinning and comparative efficacies in postoperative analgesia: A randomized controlled trial

Objective This study was performed to determine the effects of scalp blocks with bupivacaine versus levobupivacaine on the haemodynamic response during craniotomy and the efficacies and analgesic requirements of these drugs postoperatively. Methods This randomized, prospective, placebo-controlled, double-blind study included 90 patients (age, 18-85 years; American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, I or II). The patients were randomly divided into three groups: those who received 20mL of 0.5% bupivacaine (Group B, n=30), 20mL of 0.5% levobupivacaine (Group L, n=30), or saline as a placebo (Group C, n=30). Scalp blocks were performed 5min before head pinning. The primary outcome was the mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the secondary outcomes were the heart rate (HR), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and additional intraoperative and postoperative drug use. Postoperative pain was evaluated using a 10-cm VAS. Results During head pinning and incision, the MAP and HR were significantly higher in Group C. The additional drug requirement for intraoperative hypertension and tachycardia was significantly higher in Group C. There were no significant differences in MAP, HR, or VAS scores between Groups B and L. Conclusion Both bupivacaine and levobupivacaine can be effectively and safely used for scalp blocks to control haemodynamic responses and postoperative pain.