Gallbladder Stones
Gallstones (or cholelithiasis) are a fairly common condition, particularly affecting women and adults over the age of 60. In many cases, they do not cause symptoms and are discovered incidentally during routine exams. However, if a stone blocks the flow of bile, it can lead to pain and even serious complications. On this page, we’ll explore the symptoms, diagnosis, and possible treatments for managing gallstone disease.
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On this page
- What Are Gallbladder Stones?
- What Are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones?
- How Do You Diagnose Gallbladder Stones?
- How Do You Treat Gallbladder Stones?
What Are Gallbladder Stones?
Gallstone disease is a condition characterised by the formation of stones (small solid aggregates) inside the gallbladder, an organ located beneath the liver that stores bile. In Italy, it affects around 20% of the adult population, with a higher prevalence among women and older individuals. In some cases, the stones may also extend into the bile ducts, disrupting the normal flow of bile to the intestine.
What Are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones?
In its early stages, cholelithiasis may be completely asymptomatic. Over time, however, various symptoms can appear, including:
- Pain in the upper part of the abdomen (epigastric area).
- Biliary colic, often after meals.
- Digestive difficulties (dyspeptic syndrome), intolerance to fatty or fried foods, a feeling of heaviness.
- Presence of biliary sludge or sand.
The exact cause of gallstone formation is not always known. A definitive diagnosis can only be confirmed through surgery and histological analysis of the tissue.
How Do You Diagnose Gallbladder Stones?
Diagnosis of cholelithiasis can be made starting from the results of specific exams, including:
- Liver ultrasound – to detect the presence of stones and assess the state of health of the walls of the gallbladder and the surrounding liver parenchyma.
- Cholangio MRI – Recommended in suspected cases of stones in the bile ducts, it provides detailed images of the biliary tree.
How Do You Treat Gallbladder Stones?
The treatment for symptomatic gallstone disease is surgical and involves the removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), typically performed using a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique. Post-operative recovery is usually quick. At UPMC Salvator Mundi International Hospital, patients are supported throughout the entire process, including the rehabilitation phase.
Integrated support services:
- Personalised physiotherapy and rehabilitation
- Specialised recovery programmes, including for athletes
Possible Complications of Gallstone Disease
In around 8% of patients with gallstones, complications can arise—sometimes severe. The most common include:
- Acute cholecystitis – Acute inflammation of the gallbladder, often associated with biliary colic, fever, jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools. If left untreated, it may lead to perforation, pus collections, and septic shock. It generally requires prompt surgical intervention.
- Common bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis) – Stones can migrate into the main bile ducts, causing intermittent pain, nausea, fever, and, in severe cases, pancreatitis. Treatment may be endoscopic and/or surgical.
- Cholangitis (acute or ascending) – Infection of the bile ducts, often due to obstruction caused by stones. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, and dark urine. Treatment begins with antibiotics and may involve surgical or endoscopic procedures.
- Acute gallstone pancreatitis – One of the most serious complications. Caused by obstruction of the main bile duct, it leads to intense abdominal pain, vomiting, fever, and blood test abnormalities. It may require emergency treatment, followed by gallbladder removal.
- Gallbladder cancer – Not a direct consequence of gallstones, but chronic stone presence can increase the risk of malignancy. Symptoms may include progressive jaundice, persistent pain, a palpable mass, loss of appetite and weight, and fatigue.
Reviewed March 2025.