Gallstones form when components of bile crystallize. Silent stones do not always require treatment.
What is this condition?
The presence of a stone is not the same as symptomatic gallstone disease.
Signs and symptoms
Right upper or upper central abdominal pain may occur. Fever, jaundice, persistent pain or vomiting can suggest complications.
Diagnostic assessment
Ultrasound is the main imaging test; blood tests and additional imaging may be used when bile duct stones are suspected.
General treatment framework
Observation is often appropriate for silent stones. Cholecystectomy is considered for recurrent typical symptoms or complications.
Role of surgery
Cholecystectomy is usually laparoscopic; ERCP may be added when common bile duct stones are present.
Selected academic work
These publications demonstrate academic work related to the topic; they are not the sole source of current treatment standards.
- PUB-2023-03 — 2023 — Acute pancreatitis: It can be the first sign of silent gallstones. — https://doi.org/10.47717/turkjsurg.2023.5787
- PUB-2024-03 — 2024 — The relationship between gastrointestinal complaints and the use of pancreatin-derivated medications after cholecystectomy — https://doi.org/10.5472/marumj.1481286
