[Expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of gallstones in elderly population (2026 edition)].

The proportion of elderly patients with gallstones in China is increasing, and their diagnosis and treatment present unique challenges and complexities. To better standardize and guide clinical practice, the Geriatric Surgery Committee of the Chinese Research Hospital Association and the Biliary Surgery Expert Working Group of Surgical Branch, Chinese Medical Doctor Association convened relevant experts to develop the "Expert consensus on the diagnosis and treatment of gallstones in elderly population (2026 edition)". This consensus analyzes the epidemiological characteristics and clinical difficulties specific to elderly patients with gallstones, and provides evidence-based recommendations regarding diagnostic and treatment principles, preoperative assessment, surgical management, postoperative complication management, and the management of secondary lesions. It is intended to offer guidance for both basic research and clinical practice in this field, promote the standardized and individualized of diagnosis and treatment of gallstones in the elderly, and ultimately improve the quality of life of elderly patients.