Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) accurately and safely diagnose common bile duct stones. They are safer than endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) but have certain technical limitations and no therapeutic potential. Their place in clinical practice remains to be shown and may depend on key variables, including the risk of complications because of untreated bile duct stones, the relative cost of the procedures, and the local availability of equipment and technical expertise. Theoretically, they could be most useful in patients with a moderate clinical risk of bile duct stones in whom immediate ERCP or expectant management are not clearly indicated.