by Chwistek M

Treatments for Gallstones

The treatment and management of gallstones involves taking a wait-and-see approach, using medications, surgery, or other treatments as decided by you and your doctor. The exception to this approach is anyone who has large (more than 3 centimeter) gallstones, has gallbladder polyps, or is at high risk for gallbladder cancer.
Unless your gallbladder is surgically removed, gallstones may recur.
Click on the following to learn about the treatment options for gallstones:
Lifestyle changesMedicationsSurgeryAlternative and complementary therapiesOther treatments

References

Adler DG, Baron TH, et al. ASGE guideline: the role of ERCP in diseases of the biliary tract and the pancreas. Gastrointest Endosc. 2005;62:1-8.

Ahmed A, Cheung RC, et al. Management of gallstones and their complications. Am Fam Physician. 2000;61:1673-1678.

Clayton ES, Connor S, et al. Meta-analysis of endoscopy and surgery versus surgery alone for common bile duct stones with the gallbladder in situ. Br J Surg. 2006;93:1185-1191.

Revision Information

Health Library Search

Only show results from the selected categories.











1 Gallstones condition

Gallstones are pieces of stone-like material that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is located near the liver and stomach. The majority of gallstones are made up o...

2 Diagnosis of Gallstones condition indepth
5 Medication for Gallstones condition indepth
9 Risk Factors for Gallstones condition indepth
10 Screening for Gallstones condition indepth
12 Symptoms of Gallstones condition indepth
15 Anatomy of a Gallstone lifestyle - men's health

You may have gallstones and not even know it. What does that mean for your health? Understanding gallstones can help you deal with them if you ever have a gallstone attac...