The effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in dissolving gallstones formed after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: retrospective cohort study

Abstract

PurposeRapid weight loss that often occurs after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) has been linked to an increased risk of gallstone formation. This study aimed to investigate whether ursodeoxycholic acid could be an effective alternative treatment for gallstone dissolution, potentially offering a nonsurgical option for patients requiring gallstone removal.MethodsThis retrospective study analyzed 88 patients who underwent LSG and subsequently developed gallstones between 2017 and 2023. Fifty-one patients who received UDCA treatment were compared to 37 patients who did not receive UDCA. Demographic and clinical characteristics and gallstone dissolution rates were analyzed using SPSS v25.0.ResultsGallstones dissolved in 60% of patients who received UDCA treatment, and symptoms such as dyspepsia decreased. A stone diameter of less than 5 mm was associated with a higher treatment success rate. The number of hospitalizations and admissions due to gallstone symptoms has decreased. The side effects were mild and did not require treatment discontinuation.ConclusionsUDCA treatment is an effective option for the resolution of gallstones after LSG. However, surgery may be more appropriate for treating larger stones. The results of this study suggest that UDCA is an effective intervention for reducing gallstone-related complications following LSG.