Can gallstones be treated with extracorporeal lithotripsy?
Apr 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jin Zhongkui
Introduction
Gallstones generally cannot be treated with extracorporeal lithotripsy. The ducts of the gallbladder are relatively narrow; if extracorporeal lithotripsy is used for gallstones, fragments may become lodged in these narrow areas, leading to acute calculous cholecystitis or even gallstone-induced pancreatitis, which can be dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended that gallstones be treated according to medical advice using either laparoscopic cholecystectomy or open cholecystectomy, and extracorporeal lithotripsy should be avoided.
After extracorporeal lithotripsy for gallstones, the fragments usually do not pass easily, so this method is generally not recommended.
Under normal circumstances, the ducts of the gallbladder are relatively narrow. If extracorporeal lithotripsy is performed after gallstone formation, the fragmented stones may become lodged in these narrow areas, potentially causing acute calculous cholecystitis or even biliary pancreatitis, which can be dangerous. Therefore, upon diagnosis of gallstones, to promote rapid recovery, it is advisable to undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy or open cholecystectomy under a doctor's guidance, avoiding extracorporeal lithotripsy and its associated complications.
Once gallstones are detected, active treatment under medical supervision is recommended to prevent complications such as gallbladder perforation and diffuse peritonitis, which could negatively affect health.
