Is surgery necessary for gallstones?

Gallstones do not necessarily require surgery, and treatment options depend on the size of the stones, the severity of symptoms, and the risk of complications. Asymptomatic gallstones usually do not require surgery and can be treated with dietary adjustments and regular observation; when symptoms or complications occur, medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or surgical removal of the gallbladder may be required.

1. Management of asymptomatic gallstones

Patients with asymptomatic gallstones generally do not need immediate surgery, but they need regular checkups. In terms of diet, you should reduce the intake of high-fat, high-cholesterol foods, such as fried foods and animal offal, and increase fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits. Moderate exercise can help promote bile excretion and reduce the risk of stone formation. Regular ultrasound examinations can monitor changes in stones and detect potential problems in a timely manner.

2. Choice of drug treatment

For patients with mild symptoms, drug treatment may be effective. Commonly used drugs include ursodeoxycholic acid, which can dissolve cholesterol stones; anti-inflammatory and choleretic tablets help relieve gallbladder inflammation; and antispasmodics such as atropine can relieve biliary colic. Drug treatment should be carried out under the guidance of a doctor, and the effect should be evaluated regularly to avoid possible side effects caused by long-term use.

3. Non-surgical treatment

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is suitable for single, small cholesterol stones. It uses high-energy shock waves to break up the stones and facilitate their removal. Percutaneous transhepatic choledocholithotomy is suitable for patients with stones located in the bile duct. It uses minimally invasive techniques to remove the stones. These methods are less invasive and have a quick recovery, but they are not suitable for all patients and need to be selected according to specific circumstances.

4. Necessity of surgical treatment

When gallstones cause recurrent biliary colic, cholecystitis, or bile duct obstruction, surgical removal of the gallbladder is the preferred treatment option. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly used minimally invasive surgery, with the advantages of less trauma and faster recovery. Open surgery is suitable for complex cases or patients who have failed laparoscopic surgery. After surgery, you should pay attention to a light diet and avoid greasy food to promote physical recovery.

The treatment plan for gallstones should be formulated according to the specific situation of the patient. Asymptomatic patients can be managed through diet and observation, while symptomatic patients need to combine medication, non-surgical or surgical treatment. No matter which method is chosen, it must be carried out under the guidance of a doctor and reviewed regularly to ensure the treatment effect and physical health.