Factors affecting the decision to undergo cholecystectomy for mildly symptomatic gallstones

Abstract

Elective cholecystectomy for the removal of gallstones is a frequently performed operation in Western societies [1, 2]. Recent analyses [3–6] suggest that either having or not having this operation electively makes little difference in average long-term survival for patients with gallstones. Thus, the decision to have a cholecystectomy depends on the level of enthusiasm of the physician and patient toward the procedure. The patient is strongly influenced, of course, by the severity of his or her symptoms that are attributed to the gallstones. However, this is clearly not the only factor affecting the decision because many patients with frequent or severe symptoms avoid cholecystectomy or delay it as long as possible and others with no symptoms readily accept the operation when it is recommended.