Complementary therapies may be tried but there is little evidence that they do any good. These are suitable for about 1 in 5 patients, but there may be side effects and the stones may simply form again. Like all operations there are risks and complications but these steadily grow less as techniques improve. Not the end of the story It used to be thought that people adapted quickly to the loss of a gall bladder and the ability to store bile and then release it after eating. But there may be problems.
Some patients still have symptoms albeit much milder.
Others have problems with bile refluxing into the stomach and gullet, causing severe indigestion. Cholecystectomy has also been linked to a slightly increased risk of cancer of the colon, especially in women, although this has yet to be proven. The BBC is not liable for the contents of any external internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any commercial product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health.