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Pathogenesis of gallstones and their medical, endoscopic, and surgical treatment

A substantial body of literature on gallstone pathogenesis and treatment has been reported over the past year. The epidemiology and natural history of gallstone disease has been examined in more details in several reports. Studies into gallstone pathogenesis, mostly using animal models such as the prairie dog, also continue. Medical dissolution of gallstones using lithotripsy, bile salts, and other techniques still generate interest, although mostly outside the United States. A large number of reports continue to appear concerning laparoscopic cholecystecomy. In particular, the optimal approach and timing to visualize the common bile duct in patients scheduled for this procedure continue to be examined and debated. New reports concerning endoscopic removal of common bile duct stones have also appeared, mainly dealing with the management of large, difficult-to-remove stones.