Q Is it realistically possible to manage gallstones without surgery? Can Korean medicine treatment alone be enough?
A Small asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic gallstones can be observed with dietary management and Korean medicine treatment as a supplement. However, gallstones with recurrent pain, high complication risk require surgical treatment, and Korean medicine treatment alone has its limits.
Detailed Answer
The need for surgery is determined by the size, location, frequency of symptoms, and risk of complications. Many cases of small asymptomatic cholesterol gallstones under 1 cm choose watchful waiting, and Korean medicine treatment can supplement bile flow during this period. However, recurrent biliary colic, gallbladder polyps, poor gallbladder function, and gallstones with a risk of complications are difficult to avoid surgery.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Korean medicine treatment plays a supplementary rather than a replacement role for surgery. After fully discussing whether to have surgery with the attending physician, it is realistic to combine Korean medicine treatment during the observation period or the post-surgery recovery period.
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