Objective To compare the effects of target-controlled infusion (TCI) between propofol/remifentanil and sevoflurane/remifentanil during anesthesia on cerebral oxygen metabolism in patients undergoing brain tumor surgery, so as to provide references for clinical practice. Methods A double-blind randomized, controlled trial was conducted with sixty participants, which were equally assigned to two groups. Patients in the PR Group were induced by TCI of propofol/remifentanil combination and those in the SR Group were anesthetized with sevoflurane/remifentanil combination. Blood samples were collected at different time points to measure jugular bulb venous oxygen saturation (SjvO₂) and generate arteriovenous oxygen content difference (Da-jvO₂). The hemodynamic parameters and duration of surgery or anesthesia of each participant were also monitored and recorded. Results No significant difference was found regarding to the hemodynamic parameters or duration of surgery/anesthesia between the two groups. SjvO₂ was found significantly higher and Da-jvO₂ was significantly lower in the SR group than those in the PR group(P<0.01). Conclusion Combined anesthesia with propofol/remifentanil vs sevoflurane/remifentanil are both safe for patients undergoing cerebral tumor operation; and sevoflurane/remifentanil seems to provide better oxygen supply and has more rapid post-operation recovery; however, sevoflurane/remifentanil can improve cerebral oxygenation.