Feasibility of Aromatherapy in an Awake Craniotomy Environment

Awake craniotomy for tumor surgery allows for mapping of speech, motor and sensory function
during tumor resection. Awake craniotomy is increasingly utilized as it has several
advantages over a traditional general anesthetic technique. Though many patients tolerate
awake cranial surgery well, recent studies found that roughly 30% of patients experience
moderate to severe pain and anxiety, while 50% report moderate fear and 11% report severe
fear. Therefore, alternative methods to mitigate pain, anxiety, and fear are needed. In this
study, the investigators will employ lavender aromatherapy to reduce anxiety and improve the
satisfaction with pain control.