Comparing robotic and manual methods for treating kidney stones
Official title: A Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing Efficacy, Ergonomics, and Safety of ILY Robotic System vs Manual Flexible Ureteroscopy in Patients Undergoing Laser Lithotripsy for Kidney Stones
Run by American University of Beirut Medical Center · NCT06996587 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a robotic system works better than traditional manual methods for treating kidney stones to see which approach is safer and more effective for adults.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 152 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | American University of Beirut Medical Center Academic / other |
| Drugs / interventions | radiation |
| Locations | 1 site (Beirut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | April 2027 |
| Study ends | August 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 30, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06996587 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with confirmed kidney stones and normal kidney anatomy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients under 18, pregnant women, or those with anatomical anomalies of the kidneys will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and ergonomics of the ILY robotic system compared to manual flexible ureteroscopy (fURS) in treating kidney stones through laser lithotripsy. Adult participants will be randomly assigned to receive either robotic-assisted or manual ureteroscopy, with assessments conducted before and after the procedure. The study will focus on comparing clinical outcomes, complication rates, and the ergonomic advantages of using robotic technology in this context.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for kidney stones, enhancing patient safety and surgical outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While robotic-assisted procedures are gaining traction, this specific comparison of robotic versus manual ureteroscopy is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Males or females ≥ 18 years old * Patients with a normal pelvicalyceal anatomy * Patients with renal stone diagnosis confirmed by noncontrast computed tomography regardless of stone size, location, and multiplicity * ASA score I-III * Intact mental and cognitive ability to provide informed consent and willingness to participate in the study with 30-day follow-up Exclusion Criteria: * Children \< 18 and pregnant women * Patients with anatomically anomalous kidneys, known case of stricture or stenosis, or recent 3-month history of ureteroscopy (DJ stent placement only will be accepted) or known history of complicated ureteroscopy * Patients in whom stone measurement was not feasible on NCCT or those with concomitant ureteric stones. * ASA score IV * Mentally incapacitated patients unable to provide informed consent
Where it's running
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American University of Beirut Medical Center
Beirut, Lebanon Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Albert El Hajj, MD
- Email: ae67@aub.edu.lb
- Phone: +961-1-350000
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.