Primary prevention

Primary prevention of gallstones typically focuses on lifestyle modification: a diet high in fibre, low in saturated fat, and maintenance of a normal body weight, combined with moderate physical activity.[1][25][26][28][67][68] The evidence for a preventative effect of healthy lifestyle, diet, regular physical activity, and maintenance of an ideal body weight, however, is weak.[1][69]

Preventative medical therapy with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), which lowers cholesterol saturation in bile, can be used to reduce the short-term risk of stone formation, in particular in obese individuals undergoing rapid weight loss through dietary caloric restriction or weight loss surgery. In those undergoing surgery, UDCA has only been shown to be effective when used preoperatively.[70][71] In this setting, UDCA should only be used until weight has stabilised, as the evidence for its efficacy is limited.[1][71] UDCA has limited value for dissolving established gallstones and is not recommended for any other patient groups.[72]

Secondary prevention

There are no recommended secondary preventive measures.[1]

Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer