Flexible versus semi-rigid ureteroscopy for upper ureteric stones under 2 cm
Semi-rigid Ureteroscopy Versus Flexible Ureteroscopy in Upper Third Ureteric Stones Management: a Prospective Randomized Trial
This will test whether flexible or semi-rigid ureteroscopy works better for adults with upper ureteric stones smaller than 2 cm.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Assiut University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Asyut, Asyut Governorate) |
| Trial ID | NCT07247617 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults with upper ureteric stones ≤20 mm who meet eligibility will undergo either flexible or semi-rigid ureteroscopy according to the trial protocol, with stone fragmentation typically performed using holmium laser lithotripsy. The study will record outcomes including stone-free rate, complications, operative time, and cost data to compare efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness between the two approaches. Key factors such as stone size, impaction, ureteric anatomy, and need for ureteric dilation will be tracked because they influence the choice and success of each approach. Patients with associated renal stones or contraindications to anesthesia are excluded to keep the comparison focused on isolated upper ureteric stones.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older with a single upper ureteric stone ≤20 mm and no associated renal stones or anesthesia contraindications are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with associated renal (kidney) stones, stones larger than 20 mm, pediatric patients, or those who cannot undergo anesthesia are unlikely to benefit from this comparison.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the comparison could help surgeons choose the less invasive and more cost-effective option for specific upper ureteric stones, improving stone-free rates and reducing unnecessary use of flexible scopes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous reports indicate flexible ureteroscopy generally achieves higher stone-free rates (about 90–93%) but at higher cost and longer operative time versus semirigid ureteroscopy (about 81–90%), so this builds on existing comparative evidence.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients ≥18 years * upper ureteric stone * ≤20 mm Exclusion Criteria: * Associated renal stones * Any contraindications to Anesthesia
Where this trial is running
Asyut, Asyut Governorate
- Assiut Hospital — Asyut, Asyut Governorate, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Omar Ahmed Hamada Ali
- Email: omarahmedhamada74@gmail.com
- Phone: +201092868286
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.