• Carsten Gutt, Simon Schläfer, and Frank Lammert.
• Department of General, Abdominal, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, Memmingen Hospital, Memmingen Department of Internal Medicine II (Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Nutritional Medicine), Saarland University Hospital, Homburg.
• Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2020 Feb 28; 117 (9): 148158148-158.

BackgroundGallstone disease affects up to 20% of the European population, and cholelithiasis is the most common reason for hospitalization in gastroenterology.MethodsThis review is based on pertinent publications retrieved by a selective search of the literature, including the German clinical practice guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of gallstones and corresponding guidelines from abroad.ResultsRegular physical activity and an appropriate diet are the most important measures for the prevention of gallstone disease. Transcutaneous ultrasonography is the paramount method of diagnosing gallstones. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography should only be carried out as part of a planned therapeutic intervention; endosonography beforehand lessens the number of endoscopic retrograde cholangiographies that need to be performed. Cholecystectomy is indicated for patients with symptomatic gallstones or sludge. This should be performed laparoscopically with a four-trocar technique, if possible. Routine perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis is not necessary. Cholecystectomy can be performed in any trimester of pregnancy, if urgently indicated. Acute cholecystitis is an indication for early laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 24 hours of admission to hospital. After successful endoscopic clearance of the biliary pathway, patients who also have cholelithiasis should undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 72 hours.ConclusionThe timing of treatment for gallstone disease is an essential determinant of therapeutic success.

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