Gallstone disease natural history, complications and prognosis

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Gallstones develop in many people without causing symptoms. The chance of symptoms or complications from gallstones is about 20%. Nearly all patients (99%) who have gallbladder surgery do not have their symptoms return.

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

Asymptomatic stones: 16-26% of patients develop gallstone-related symptoms in 10 years. Prophylactic cholecystectomy not indicated UNLESS increased risk of gallbladder (gb) cancer: