RCT of Ultrasonic Clearance vs. Observation for Kidney Stones

This multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled trial assessed the efficacy of ultrasonic propulsion for clearing residual kidney stone fragments compared to observation. Conducted from May 2015 to April 2024, it included adults with individual fragments ≤5 mm. The primary outcome, relapse indicated by stone growth, medical visits, or surgeries within five years, showed a significantly longer time to relapse in the ultrasonic propulsion group compared to the control group (P < 0.003). Secondary outcomes indicated a higher fragment passage rate within three weeks in the treatment group (63% vs. 5%). Overall, ultrasonic propulsion reduced relapse rates with minimal risk of adverse events.