Gallstones. Who are good candidates for nonsurgical treatment?

Although surgery remains the ultimate treatment for symptomatic gallstone disease, the number of nonsurgical alternatives continues to grow. It is important to consider these options. The patient's age and overall health and the composition, number, and size of gallstones are major factors in determining whether alternative methods of therapy are appropriate. Many patients are eliminated from consideration when criteria for nonsurgical therapy are carefully followed. For example, oral dissolution therapy is relatively effective, but only about 20% to 25% of patients are candidates.