Gallstones—Cholecystectomy or Not?

Abstract

Some past and present thoughts on the management of asymptomatic cholelithiasis are reviewed. The authors believe that in light of the clinical and statistical material presented, the argument for early surgical intervention in such cases continues to gain wide acceptance. Although individualization of each case is praiseworthy and watchful waiting may have some merit, a laissez-faire or careless attitude on the part of the patient or physician is to be thoroughly discouraged. Despite the fact that gallstones are unexotic and commonplace, their presence is a serious matter.