Comparing stent placement versus omission after kidney stone treatment

Stent Omission After Ureteroscopy and Lithotripsy in the Michigan Urological Surgery Improvement Collaborative (SOUL MUSIC)

NA · University of Michigan · NCT05866081

This study is testing whether putting in a stent after kidney stone treatment helps patients feel better and need fewer extra doctor visits compared to not using a stent at all.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment792 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Michigan (other)
Locations16 sites (Tucson, Arizona and 15 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05866081 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter trial evaluates patient-reported outcomes and healthcare utilization following ureteroscopy and lithotripsy for kidney stones, comparing outcomes between patients who receive a ureteral stent and those who do not. Participants will be randomized into two groups: one receiving standard stent placement and the other omitting the stent. Additionally, an observational cohort will allow for treatment decisions based on physician judgment while collecting patient feedback through surveys. The study aims to assess differences in pain levels and unplanned healthcare visits between the two approaches.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals undergoing unilateral ureteroscopy and lithotripsy for kidney stones measuring 10 mm or less.

Not a fit: Patients with planned bilateral ureteroscopy or those with certain anatomical abnormalities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved patient comfort and reduced healthcare utilization after kidney stone procedures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying results regarding stent placement, making this approach both relevant and potentially novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Undergoing unilateral ureteroscopy and lithotripsy for stone disease (participants may have contralateral stones, as long as these are asymptomatic and not being treated concurrently)
* Largest stone less or equal to 10 millimeter in size as measured on abdominal x-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography scan
* Access to means of communication with the study team (email, text messaging, and/or telephone)
* Adequate independent cognitive function and English language proficiency to complete study surveys
* Written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Planned bilateral ureteroscopy
* Indwelling ureteral stent or percutaneous nephrostomy tube preoperatively in either kidney
* Anatomic abnormalities of the ipsilateral upper urinary tract (for example, horseshoe kidney, crossed fused ectopia, pelvic kidney, urinary diversion)
* Anatomic or functional solitary kidney
* Planned secondary or staged ureteroscopy
* Planned use of ureteral access sheath
* Pregnancy
* Patients who use opiate medication daily for greater than 3 months to manage a painful condition

Second Stage Exclusion Criteria:

* ureteral perforation
* unanticipated anatomic abnormality
* greater than expected bleeding
* ureteral dilation greater than 12 French
* ureteral access sheath utilized
* failed ureteroscopy
* no or incomplete lithotripsy performed
* unable to complete case due to medical or anesthetic event.

Where this trial is running

Tucson, Arizona and 15 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stone, Kidney, Stone Ureter, Unilateral ureteroscopy and lithotripsy, Ureteral stent, Pain assessment, Quality of life

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.