Does Sludge in Gallbladder Mean Surgery?

Sludge — and even tiny stones — may pass through the bile duct and cause typical gallbladder pain symptoms, or they may cause no symptoms at all. “The incidental finding of sludge on an X-ray [done for another reason] does not indicate the need for surgery,” Dr. Ponsky says.

How do you get rid of gallbladder sludge?

In most cases, a gallbladder cleanse involves eating or drinking a combination of olive oil, herbs and some type of fruit juice over several hours. Proponents claim that gallbladder cleansing helps break up gallstones and stimulates the gallbladder to release them in stool.

Can you live with gallbladder sludge?

Most people with gallbladder sludge can lead normal, healthy lives. Many require no treatment at all. But an accurate diagnosis can rule out potentially dangerous problems, such as a pancreas infection or pancreatic cancer.