Ursodeoxycholic Acid Prophylaxis and the Reduction of Gallstone Formation After Bariatric Surgery: An Updated Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Gallstone formation following bariatric surgery poses a significant clinical concern, prompting various preventive strategies, including ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) prophylaxis. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of UDCA in preventing gallstone formation after bariatric surgery. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in major databases up to September 2023, identifying 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) meeting the inclusion criteria.