Laser vs. shock wave: which breaks tough stones better?

NCT ID NCT07418112

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares two devices used during an ERCP procedure to break up large or stuck stones in the bile or pancreatic ducts. Forty adults will be randomly assigned to receive either low-power holmium laser lithotripsy or electrohydraulic lithotripsy. The main goal is to see which method clears the stones more completely in one session, and to check for side effects over 30 days.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

holmium laser lithotripsy device

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that a low-power laser is a safer or more effective way to break up large bile or pancreatic duct stones compared to the standard shock-wave method.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase trial with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Both procedures carry risks like bleeding or infection, and the laser may not work better than the current approach.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

choledocholithiasis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Rush University Medical Center

    RECRUITING

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact