A Randomized Controlled Trial on the Efficacy of Acupoint Catgut Embedding Combined with Ursodeoxycholic Acid in Dissolving Cholesterol Gallstones and Its Impact on Gallbladder Function

INTERVENTION: Acupoint Catgut Embedding + UDCA Group:Acupoint catgut embedding with PGLA absorbable sutures at Yanglingquan, Danshu, Riyue, and Gallbladder point, deep implantation, once every 2 weeks for 4 sessions (8‐week course); Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA): 10 mg/kg/day, oral nightly, for 12 weeks;Acupuncture + UDCA Group:Acupuncture at Yanglingquan, Danshu, Riyue, and Gallbladder point with superficial puncture (conventional acupuncture), once every 2 weeks for 4 sessions; Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA): 10 mg/kg/day, oral nightly, for 12 weeks; CONDITION: Gallbladder Cholesterol Stones PRIMARY OUTCOME: Complete stone dissolution rate; SECONDARY OUTCOME: Partial stone dissolution rate;Gallbladder function recovery;Clinical symptom relief;Quality of life improvement; INCLUSION CRITERIA: 1. Aged 18–65 years; 2. Diagnosed with gallbladder cholesterol stones by ultrasonography (diameter = 10 mm); 3. Reduced gallbladder contractile function (GBEF = 35%); 4. Patency of the cystic duct; 5. No recent acute complications; 6. Voluntary signing of informed consent.