Objective To introduce the current status of clinical research on endoscopic cholecystolithotomy with reservation of gallbladder. Methods Literatures related to the basis, advantage, indication, contraindication, operative method and current controversy were reviewed and summarized. Results The objective evidences were afforded by postoperative complications of cholecystectomy for endoscopic cholecystolithotomy with reservation of gallbladder. The progress of endoscopic technique made it possible for reservation of gallbladder. The controversy in endoscopic cholecystolithotomy with reservation of gallbladder was focused on the choice of indications and operative procedure. Incorrect patient selection and undue pursuit of cholecystolithotomy with reservation of gallbladder would be completely opposite to the treatment of gallstone. Conclusion It is feasible for endoscopic cholecystolithotomy with reservation of gallbladder to remove completely stone and reserve gallbladder function, but further investigation and long-term follow up are required to delineate gallstone recurrence after operation.