Gallbladder-related disease is a common non-obstetric abdominal complaint. Cholelithiasis or presence of calculi/gallstones in the gallbladder or common duct occurs more frequently in pregnant women. Gallstones range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.

Understanding the Context

Some people develop just one gallstone, while others develop many gallstones at the same time. People who experience symptoms from their gallstones usually require gallbladder removal surgery. Gallstones that don't cause any signs and symptoms typically don't need treatment. A cholecystectomy is most often used to treat gallstones and the complications they cause.

Key Insights

Your health care team may recommend a cholecystectomy if you have: Gallstones in the gallbladder that are causing symptoms, called cholelithiasis. Gallstones in the bile duct, called choledocholithiasis. Gallbladder inflammation, called cholecystitis. Large gallbladder polyps, which can turn cancerous ... Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid, called bile, in your gallbladder.

Final Thoughts

They range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Dr. Irving Jorge, a Mayo Clinic general surgeon, says people who experience pain and other symptoms from gallstones usually require gallbladder removal surgery. Gallbladder cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer where abnormal cells in the gallbladder grow out of control. The gallbladder, a small organ under the liver, stores bile to help digest food. The gallbladder is a small organ located near your liver.

It stores bile, which is a liquid produced in the liver. The gallbladder releases bile into the small bowel to help break down fats. A ... Gallstones are hard pieces of material that can form in your gallbladder.