What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder when the gallbladder doesn’t work normally. They may be formed from cholesterol, bile pigment or a combination of both. They come in various shapes and sizes — from tiny gravel-like particles to single large stones.
What Are the Symptoms?
Gallstones may not cause any symptoms and may be found by chance on a scan performed for an entirely different reason. When gallstones do cause symptoms they typically include:
Diagnosis
All patients with symptoms suggestive of gallstones need an ultrasound scan. This is usually the first and often only investigation required.
Treatment
Gallstones that are not causing any symptoms don’t need any treatment. If they start giving symptoms, an operation to remove the gallbladder (laparoscopic cholecystectomy) is required.