Gallstones & Gallbladder Disease

Gallstones & Gallbladder Disease

Overview

Gallstones and gallbladder disease are common digestive disorders that can cause significant discomfort and complications if left untreated. The gallbladder is a small organ responsible for storing bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. When substances in bile, such as cholesterol or bilirubin, become imbalanced, they can form stones, leading to gallbladder disease.

At our Gastroenterology Department, we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder-related conditions, offering advanced, minimally invasive procedures for effective management.

Common Gallbladder Conditions We Treat

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): Hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can block bile flow.
• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones.
• Biliary Dyskinesia: A motility disorder where the gallbladder does not empty properly.
• Gallbladder Polyps: Small growths in the gallbladder that may require monitoring or removal.
• Choledocholithiasis: Presence of gallstones in the bile ducts, leading to pain and complications.

Symptoms of Gallstones & Gallbladder Disease

• Severe pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the stomach
• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion and bloating
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Fever and chills (in cases of infection)

Diagnosis

We use cutting-edge diagnostic tools to accurately detect gallstones and gallbladder disease:

• Ultrasound: The most common and reliable imaging method for detecting gallstones.
• MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography): A specialized MRI scan to visualize bile ducts.
• CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding organs.
• HIDA Scan (Cholescintigraphy): Assesses gallbladder function and detects bile flow issues.
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Offers high-resolution imaging for detecting small stones in bile ducts.

Treatment Options

1. Non-Surgical Treatments (For Mild Cases & Symptomatic Relief)

• Medications: Bile acid pills (Ursodeoxycholic acid) to dissolve cholesterol-based gallstones (effective for small stones).
• Dietary Modifications: Low-fat, high-fiber diet to reduce symptoms and prevent stone formation.
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): A non-invasive method using sound waves to break down gallstones (rarely used).

2. Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal Surgery):
  • Gold standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones and gallbladder disease.
  • Minimally invasive technique with small incisions, less pain, and faster recovery.
  • Patients can typically go home the same day or within 24 hours.
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP):
  • Removes gallstones stuck in the bile ducts without surgery.
  • Uses an endoscope with a tiny camera to access the ducts.
• Open Cholecystectomy:
  • Recommended for severe infections, large stones, or complicated cases where laparoscopic surgery is not feasible.

Post-Treatment Care & Recovery

• Most patients recover within 1-2 weeks after laparoscopic gallbladder removal.
• A specialized diet may be recommended temporarily to aid digestion.
• Regular follow-ups with a gastroenterologist ensure smooth recovery and prevent complications.

Why Choose Us for Gallbladder Treatment?

• Experienced Gastroenterologists & Surgeons: Our specialists are skilled in the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques.
• Minimally Invasive Approach: Faster recovery, smaller scars, and reduced post-operative pain.

Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment and post-surgical management, we provide holistic care tailored to each patient.