A system to help surgeons locate and remove kidney stones during surgery
Official title: A Navigational System for Endoscopic Kidney Stone Surgery
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10833656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new tool to help surgeons see kidney stones better during surgery, making it easier for them to find and remove the stones, which could lead to fewer repeat surgeries and better results for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $190,649 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DK133742-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10833656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for endoscopic kidney stone surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that prevent them from undergoing endoscopic surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a navigational system that enhances the ability of surgeons to visualize and locate kidney stones during endoscopic surgery. By addressing challenges such as blood and debris obscuring the view, the system will utilize advanced imaging techniques to create a clearer picture of the kidney's anatomy. The goal is to improve the accuracy of stone localization and tracking, ultimately leading to better surgical outcomes and reducing the need for repeat procedures. Patients undergoing kidney stone surgery may benefit from this innovative approach that aims to achieve a stone-free status more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of repeat surgeries and complications related to kidney stones.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging and navigation systems in surgical procedures, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kavoussi, Nicholas L — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kavoussi, Nicholas L
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.