Electrohydraulic versus Laser Cholangioscopy-Assisted Lithotripsy for Biliary Interventions

Introduction: Case-based comparison between the two modalities with review of the techniques and device settings to help guide interventional radiologists (IRs) to choose the most appropriate modality for different patients.

Method(s): We identified patients who underwent percutaneous cholangioscopy-assisted lithotripsy using either electrohydraulic (EHL) or laser (LL), a single center comparison. We compared patients’ demographics, comorbidities, modality used, technique and device settings, biliary drain interventions, procedural outcome, and postprocedural complications.

Result(s): High technical success rates for both modalities. Prolonged procedure time with LL. Favorable outcome for gallbladder interventions with LL. Favorable outcome with EHL for intrahepatic stones. No major complication rates for both modalities.

Conclusion(s): Both EHL and LL each provide certain advantages and disadvantages. Given the unique mechanism of action for each modality, a fundamental knowledge of both techniques is vital to choose the modality.

Publication History

Article published online:
09 February 2023