Diagnosis and management of gallbladder calculus disease.

BACKGROUND

The number and rate of cholecystectomy are increasing worldwide, although indications for operative treatment remain empirical, and several issues in the understanding of the condition are not concisely outlined. Our intention is to summarize and interpret current opinion regarding the indications and timing of cholecystectomy in calculous gallbladder disease.

METHODS

Publications concerned with gallstone disease and related topics were searched for in MEDLINE using PubMed and summarized according to clinical scenarios with an emphasis on recent research.

RESULTS

Only one randomized controlled trial has investigated the management (conservative vs. surgery) of patients with acute cholecystitis and several have compared early with deferred surgery. Two RCTs have examined treatment of uncomplicated, symptomatic gallstone disease. Apart from these, the overwhelming majority of publications are retrospective case series.

CONCLUSIONS

Recent literature confirms that cholecystectomy for an asymptomatic or incidental gallstone is not justified. Symptomatic, uncomplicated gallstone disease may be classified into four severity groups based on severity and frequency of pain attacks, which may guide indication for cholecystectomy. Most patients below the age of 70 seem to prefer operative treatment. Acute cholecystitis may be treated with early operation if reduction of hospital days is an issue. Patients older than 70 years with significant comorbidities may forego surgical treatment without undue hazard. Symptoms following cholecystectomy remain in 25% or more and recent evidence suggest these are caused by a functional gastrointestinal disorder.