NCT07222241 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
Comparing Numbing Techniques in Mohs Micrographic Surgery
What this study is about
This study seeks to determine whether adjunct regional nerve blocks reduce pain and anxiety in adult patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery for face and scalp skin cancers. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two treatment group$1: (1) placebo regional nerve block with sterile normal saline or (2) adjunct regional nerve block with lidocaine.
View original scientific description
This study seeks to determine whether adjunct regional nerve blocks reduce pain and anxiety in adult patients undergoing Mohs micrographic surgery for face and scalp skin cancers. Participants will be randomized to one of two arms: (1) placebo regional nerve block with sterile normal saline or (2) adjunct regional nerve block with lidocaine. All patients receive local infiltration with lidocaine for complete anesthesia.
Interventions
OTHER
Nerve Block
0.45% lidocaine with 1:200,000 epinephrine
OTHER
Placebo Nerve Block
Sterile normal saline
Primary outcome measures
Intraoperative Pain
Time frame: T1: After nerve block; T2: Immediately after completion of local infiltration but before surgical excision; T3: At the end of stage 1 of Mohs micrographic surgery.
Pain rating reported by the patient using a Visual Analog Scale (0 = no pain; 10 = worst pain imaginable).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥18 years.
- Scheduled to undergo MMS.
- Lesions on the face or scalp, defined as the region superior to the mandibular margin anteriorly, superior to the external occipital protuberance posteriorly, and superior to the mastoid processes laterally.
- Tumor diameter plus anticipated stage 1 MMS margin ≥2 cm in diameter OR any tumor on the ear, lip, nose, or eyelid.
- Ability to complete patient reported outcome measures in English.
Exclusion criteria
- Known allergy or contraindication to lidocaine or epinephrine.
- Chronic opioid use or pre existing pain disorders that may interfere with pain reporting.
- Presence of scar tissue at the anatomic site of local infiltration or nerve block that may alter anesthetic penetration.
- Concurrent multi site Mohs procedure.
- Signs of skin and soft tissue infection at the anatomic site of local infiltration or nerve block.
- Inability to understand or complete pain and satisfaction assessments.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Use of sedatives or anxiolytics prior to the procedure.
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 29, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations