Can watching and waiting beat surgery for silent kidney stones?

NCT ID NCT07718802

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial compares two approaches for people with small, symptom-free kidney stones: immediate surgery versus simply monitoring them over time. Researchers want to know which strategy leads to less disruption in daily life, fewer emergency visits, and better overall well-being. The study includes both children and adults with stones measuring 4 to 10 millimeters that are not causing pain or blockage.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: surgery (ureteroscopy or shockwave lithotripsy) versus observation
What this could lead to: If observation proves as good as or better than surgery, many people with asymptomatic kidney stones could avoid unnecessary procedures.
What could go wrong: This is a large trial, but results may not apply to everyone with kidney stones. Observation carries a risk that stones may later cause symptoms or require emergency treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Kidney Calculi nephrolithiasis

As listed by the trial registrant

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

KIDNEY STONE NEPHROLITHIASIS

Contacts and locations

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Study contacts

Contact

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

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

Locations

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States

Contact

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