I had my gallbladder removed in 1999. I was in pain for four years before I did. Not contant pain, but every like three months I'd have attacks, go to the ER and get all the tests done, etc. All thoses years, my sonogram came back with small stones in the gallbladder, bile duct clear. Because I was HMO, they didn't recommend sugery. Finally in the Fall of 1998, I'd had enough. I was on a PPO and I elected to have it out. I found a doc who listened to me, referred me to a surgeon and he took it out the next month in March. My surgeon told me I had a tumor (benign) and that it should have been taken out years ago.

I have been great since, expect for the reflux. I still limit my spicy and real fatty foods. It was the best thing I ever did.
http://www.healthboards.com/ubb/bang.gif Basically, there is no reason for someone to be in pain, so be a pest to your doctor. Gallbladder pain will only get worse and I've had a child and I'd rather have a child without an epidural, than go through that sort of pain again.
Good luck!