What removes gallstones?

Gallstones can be treated with medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or cholecystectomy. The formation of gallstones is related to factors such as genetics, eating habits, obesity and abnormal bile composition. Treatments include medication, non-invasive procedures and surgery.

1. Causes of gallstones

The formation of gallstones is the result of multiple factors. Genetic factors may lead to abnormal bile composition and increase the risk of gallstones. Eating habits such as high-fat, high-cholesterol diets can promote the formation of cholesterol stones. Obesity and rapid weight loss may also lead to increased cholesterol concentrations in bile. Physiological factors such as cholestasis or abnormal gallbladder contraction function can also increase the risk of gallstones. Certain diseases such as diabetes and cirrhosis may also indirectly cause gallstones.

2. Drug treatment

Drug treatment is suitable for patients with cholesterol stones and normal gallbladder function. Commonly used drugs include bile acid drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid, which can dissolve cholesterol stones. The treatment cycle is usually long, taking several months or even longer. Regular follow-up during drug treatment is required to monitor the dissolution of stones.

3. Non-invasive treatment

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a non-invasive treatment for patients with a small number of small stones. This method uses shock waves generated outside the body to break up the stones, which are then excreted through bile. After treatment, medication is needed to dissolve the stones and pay attention to diet. Percutaneous cholecystoscopic lithotripsy is another minimally invasive method that uses a puncture in the skin to enter the gallbladder and remove the stones.

4. Surgical treatment

Cholecystectomy is a common method for treating gallstones, especially for patients with recurrent or complications. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the preferred method, with less trauma and faster recovery. For complicated cases or patients with abdominal adhesions, laparotomy may be required. After surgery, you need to pay attention to diet conditioning, avoid high-fat foods, and gradually resume a normal diet.

The treatment of gallstones requires choosing the appropriate method according to the patient's specific situation. No matter which treatment method is chosen, it needs to be combined with a healthy lifestyle, such as maintaining a proper weight, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Regular physical examinations can help to detect and treat gallstones early and prevent complications. If symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice occur, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid delaying the condition.