Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. The two main types of gallstones are cholesterol stones and pigment stones. Cholesterol stones occur when there is too much cholesterol in the bile, leading to crystal formation. These stones are more common and can form when the liver excretes excess cholesterol or when the gallbladder does not empty properly. Pigment stones, on the other hand, are smaller and darker, and they form when there is excess bilirubin, a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.

​

Several factors can increase the risk of developing gallstones. These include obesity, which leads to increased cholesterol levels in the bile, and conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, or cirrhosis. Hormonal changes, particularly in women, can also play a role, as pregnancy or the use of birth control pills increases estrogen levels, which may increase cholesterol production. Age, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle are also significant risk factors. Additionally, rapid weight loss, which can occur with extreme dieting or weight-loss surgery, may lead to the formation of gallstones as the liver releases more cholesterol into the bile.

​

Gallstones can sometimes cause complications such as pain or infection, when this happens, it is usually recommended to remove the gallbladder, which is usually done laparoscopically (via key hole approach).