Can gallbladder sand-like stones be passed?
Disease description:
I've been experiencing recurring abdominal pain these past few days, and after going to the hospital for a checkup, I found out it's due to gallbladder sludge stones. May I ask, can gallbladder sludge stones be passed naturally?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Gallbladder sludge stones can be expelled. Gallbladder sludge stones are a common biliary tract condition, primarily characterized by rupture of the gallbladder wall, leading to leakage of bile and biliary sand-like stones into the abdominal cavity. This condition typically results from prolonged over-concentration of bile within the gallbladder, excessive bile viscosity, or accumulation of cholesterol and bilirubin. For patients with small stones who are asymptomatic, the stones may spontaneously pass after conservative management. Additionally, medications such as potassium citrate granules, sodium bicarbonate tablets, or ursodeoxycholic acid tablets may be used under medical guidance. However, specific drug use must be directed by a physician.
