Kidney Stone Laser Studies Have Shown Similar Efficacy
A recent study found no significant difference in stone-free rates between two common laser technologies.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Stroke
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A clinical study of 178 patients has revealed that Holmium:YAG and thulium fiber lasers both effectively treat kidney stones. Both groups demonstrated nearly identical success rates and comparable improvements in patient quality of life.
Why it matters
Comparing these surgical tools helps medical professionals determine the most effective methods for kidney stone removal. Understanding that both lasers offer similar outcomes ensures that surgeons can focus on other factors like procedure efficiency or equipment availability.
The clinical study included 178 adults with kidney stones sized between 5 mm and 20 mm. Patients treated with Ho:YAG lasers achieved a 52.9% stone-free rate compared to 52.3% for those treated with thulium fiber lasers.
The players
The Journal of Urology
This is a peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes research regarding the diagnosis and treatment of urological diseases.
The details
Surgeons utilized a flexible ureteroscope and a 200-µm laser to perform the procedures across five care centers. Researchers confirmed the results using CT imaging conducted 6 to 12 weeks after the surgical interventions.
Timeline
Patients underwent kidney stone treatment between 2023 and 2025.
Study results were published in The Journal of Urology on September 24, 2026.
The Big Picture
This study updates the comparative performance metrics for standard laser lithotripsy techniques within the framework of The Journal of Urology surgical research guidelines.
Patients suffering from kidney stones can expect similar health outcomes regardless of which of these two laser types is used during their surgery. Both options demonstrate significant post-surgical improvements in quality of life for the patient.
The takeaway
Patients should consult with their urologist to discuss which surgical tools are available at their local facility for stone treatment. Both laser systems have proven to be safe and effective options for managing kidney stones.
Further reading
For more information on the latest advancements in surgical interventions, visit the Stroke section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Medscape.
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