Gallstones are pebble-like deposits that can form in the gallbladder. These relatively common growths are composed of bilirubin or cholesterol, both of which are present in the sac-like organ. Depending on their size, gallstones can cause a variety of symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, jaundice, and fever. If there is severe pain, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be necessary. Without a gallbladder, bile will flow directly from the liver to the small intestine via the hepatic and common bile ducts.

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