Is surgery necessary for multiple gallbladder stones?

Multiple gallstones do not always require surgery, depending on the severity of symptoms and the impact of the stones on quality of life. In most cases, multiple gallstones can be managed with observation and medication, but when symptoms are severe or the risk of complications is increased, surgery may be necessary.

1. Observation of asymptomatic gallstones: For multiple gallstones without symptoms, many doctors recommend regular examinations and observation, which can avoid surgery when it is not necessary. Regular ultrasound examinations can help doctors monitor changes in stones and the health of the gallbladder. Although stones may increase inflammation of the gallbladder wall or cause bile duct obstruction, surgery may not be necessary before symptoms appear.

2. Non-surgical management when symptoms occur: For those with mild symptoms, such as occasional upper abdominal discomfort or mild indigestion, they can be managed with lifestyle adjustments and medications. Dietary adjustments such as a low-fat diet, eating more vegetables and fruits, and avoiding too much fried food and high-cholesterol foods may help reduce symptoms. The use of bile acid drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid may help reduce the size of stones or prevent the formation of new stones.

3. Surgical options: When gallstones cause severe symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, jaundice, recurrent cholecystitis or pancreatitis, surgery is usually the best treatment option. Minimally invasive cholecystectomy (laparoscopic cholecystectomy) is the most common surgical procedure. This method is less invasive, has a quick recovery, and has fewer postoperative complications. For patients who cannot bear the risks of surgery or have other concomitant diseases, other alternatives may need to be selected.

When deciding on treatment options for multiple gallstones, you should work closely with your healthcare provider to assess your health, the severity of your symptoms, and your willingness to undergo surgery. In many cases, healthy lifestyle adjustments and regular medical checkups can effectively manage stones, while surgery is a clear means of addressing severe symptoms. Although everyone's situation is different, it is important to put your health first and develop a treatment plan that works best for you through scientific medical advice.