What is a calcified gallstone?

A calcified gallstone is a gallstone that has hardened due to the deposition of calcium salts on its surface. These stones are usually composed of cholesterol, bile pigments, and calcium salts, and they can be quite hard and difficult to pass. Calcified gallstones can cause pain, inflammation, and infection of the gallbladder, and they can also lead to complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and liver damage. Treatment for calcified gallstones typically involves surgery to remove the gallbladder.