What are the treatments for gallstones?

Treatments for gallstones include medication, surgery, and dietary adjustments, depending on the size of the stones, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's overall health. Medication can include ursodeoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholic acid, and cholesterol dissolving agents; surgical treatment includes laparoscopic cholecystectomy, open cholecystectomy, and endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography; dietary adjustments recommend a low-fat diet, a high-fiber diet, and adequate drinking of water.

1. Drug treatment: Ursodeoxycholic acid and chenodeoxycholic acid are commonly used drugs that can dissolve cholesterol stones and are suitable for patients with small stones and mild symptoms. Cholesterol dissolving agents help stones gradually dissolve by reducing the cholesterol concentration in bile. Drug treatment requires long-term adherence and regular review to evaluate the efficacy.

2. Surgical treatment: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly used surgical method, with minimal trauma and quick recovery, and is suitable for most patients with gallstones. Open cholecystectomy is suitable for complex cases or situations where laparoscopic surgery cannot be performed. Endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography is mainly used to treat bile duct stones. The stones are removed through the endoscope to avoid open surgery.

3. Diet adjustment: A low-fat diet can reduce gallbladder contraction and reduce the frequency of biliary colic. A high-fiber diet helps promote digestion and reduce cholesterol absorption. Drinking enough water can dilute bile and reduce the risk of stone formation. Diet adjustment not only helps treat gallstones, but also prevents the recurrence of stones.

The treatment of gallstones requires comprehensive consideration of the patient's specific situation, selection of appropriate treatment methods, and combination with dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes to achieve the best treatment effect and prevent recurrence.