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