Background: 15% of adults in the United States suffer from gallstones, with about 1 million cases diagnosed each year. The risk factors leading to a higher risk of developing gallstones include obesity, along with older age and females with multiple pregnancies where 60% of them undergo cholecystectomy. There are various different managements, mainly including open cholecystectomy, laparoscopic surgery, as well as medical treatments. Aim: In this review, we aim to study the diagnosis, presentation, and different management approach of gall stones, along with their indication and contraindication. Materials and Methods: We conducted this review using a comprehensive search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE, January 2001, through February 2017. The following search terms were used: cholelithiasis, open cholecystectomy, laparoscopic surgery, prophylactic cholecystectomy, medical management of gall stones. Conclusion: Gallstones are still a major cause of undergoing surgery worldwide. Correct recognition of gall stone disease, with appropriate management technique results in high success rate. Most patients undergo surgery only after they are symptomatic.
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