MRI Gallstones

Gallstones are hard deposits that can form in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid produced by the liver to help digest fats. Gallstones can range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a few centimeters.

Causes

• Cholesterol Stones: The most common type, formed when there is too much cholesterol in the bile. Factors that may contribute include liver releasing more cholesterol than bile can dissolve, less bile salts, or poor gallbladder emptying.

• Pigment Stones: These are less common and are formed when there is too much bilirubin in the bile. Conditions like liver cirrhosis, biliary tract infections, and certain blood disorders can lead to pigment stone formation.

Treatment

• Observation: If gallstones are not causing symptoms, treatment may not be necessary.

• Medications: Certain medications can dissolve gallstones, but this is typically reserved for those who cannot undergo surgery. These drugs can take years to be effective and the stones can recur after the treatment ends.

• Surgery (Cholecystectomy): The most common and effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. This is a common procedure and can often be done laparoscopically.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): If a stone becomes lodged in a duct, ERCP can be used to remove the stone.