The gall bladder stores the bile created by the liver and releases it through the biliary ducts into the duodenum to promote digestion. Bile is extremely important for fat digestion and absorption of vitamins A, D, and E.
When bile contains excessive cholesterol, bilirubin, or bile salts, gallstones can form. Stones made from hardened cholesterol account for the vast majority of gallstones can form while stone made from bilirubin, the brownish pigment in bile, constitute only about 20 percent of gallstones.
When the bile flow is obstructed due to gallstones, serious consequences can ensue, including poor digestion, jaundice, and severe abdominal pain.