Electrohydraulic Versus Laser Lithotripsy for Treatment of Difficult to Remove Biliary Stones

Electrohydraulic Versus Laser Lithotripsy for Treatment of Difficult to Remove Biliary Stones

Bile duct stones that can't be removed by conventional means can often be removed after fragmentation by shock waves (lithotripsy). The shock waves that are used for fragmentation of these stones are generated by electric sparks (electrohydraulic lithotripsy) or laser (laser lithotripsy). Although both techniques have been used for many years, there are no studies comparing the efficacy of the two. The purpose of this study is to find out which technique is more effective.

Procedures will be considered standard of care; patients or insurance companies will be billed as it is standard of care.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 1 or more gall stones in bile duct which cannot be removed using conventional methods (must be fragmented)
• Adults able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy or lactation