Don't people need their gallbladders?
Fortunately, the gallbladder is an organ that people can live without. Losing it won't even require a change in diet. Once the gallbladder is removed, bile flows out of the liver through the hepatic ducts into the common bile duct and goes directly into the small intestine, instead of being stored in the gallbladder. However, because the bile isn't stored in the gallbladder, it flows into the small intestine more frequently, causing diarrhea in about 1 percent of people.
Points to Remember
- Gallstones form when substances in the bile harden.
- Gallstones are more common among women, Native Americans, Mexican Americans, and people who are overweight.
- Gallstone attacks often occur after eating a meal.
- Symptoms can mimic those of other problems, including heart attack, so accurate diagnosis is important.
- Gallstones can cause serious problems if they become trapped in the bile ducts.
- Laparoscopic surgery to remove the gallbladder is the most common treatment.
