What is a contracted gallbladder?

A contracted gallbladder is one that is diseased and smaller than normal. The contraction of a gallbladder in such a situation typically is caused by scarring. The contraction or shrinking of a gallbladder prevents it from functioning normally.

The scarring that results in gallbladder contraction typically occurs due to the presence of gallstones. Left untreated, gallstones do significant damage to the lining of a gallbladder. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of gallstones lessens the risk of harmful scarring of a gallbladder. It also effectively reduces the risk of the development of a contracted gallbladder. Gallbladder contraction caused by scarring generally is not reversible.