Liver bile stone. Gross specimen of a bile stone (centre right) blocking a bile duct in a case of hepatic biliary lithiasis. The liver produces bile that helps to digest fats in the intestines. Bile also contains bilirubin, a waste product excreted by the liver. Lithiasis, the formation of a stone, can block the biliary ducts. This commonly occurs in the gall bladder where bile is stored after it is made in the liver. Gallstones can block the common bile duct that passes bile to the intestine from the gall bladder. Infection and acute pain can result. Pain-killing drugs are used to treat the pain. Surgery may be needed to remove stones in severe cases.