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Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Stones formed in the gallbladder cause abdominal pain and complications; treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Genel Cerrahi department. Book Appointment →

What is Gallstones and Cholecystectomy?

Gallstones (cholelithiasis) are solid masses formed by the crystallization of cholesterol, bilirubin, or calcium salts in the gallbladder. Their sizes can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

Most gallstones are asymptomatic and are detected incidentally. However, when stones obstruct the outlet of the gallbladder, severe pain attacks called 'biliary colic' occur.

Cholecystectomy (gallbladder surgery) is among the most frequently performed laparoscopic surgeries worldwide. In the laparoscopic method, 3-4 small incisions are made, and a camera and instruments are inserted into the abdomen; the gallbladder is removed intact.

Symptoms

Severe, cramping pain in the upper right abdomen or epigastrium (below the stomach)
Pain attacks especially after fatty meals
Radiation of pain to the right shoulder or back
Nausea and vomiting
Jaundice (if the stone has passed into the bile duct)
Gas, bloating, and indigestion
Fever (if gallbladder inflammation/cholecystitis has developed)

Risk Factors

Female sex (2-3 times more common in women)
Age over 40
Obesity or rapid weight loss
High cholesterol and low-fiber diet
Family history
Pregnancy (increased estrogen)
Diabetes and sickle cell anemia

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
  • Abdominal pain with fever (sign of cholecystitis)
  • Jaundice, dark-colored urine, light-colored stool
  • Vomiting and difficulty eating/drinking
  • Recurrent biliary colic attacks

Treatment Methods

01
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: closed technique with 3-4 small incisions to remove the gallbladder (gold standard)
02
Open cholecystectomy: in complicated cases or when laparoscopy is unsuccessful
03
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): endoscopic clearing of stones that have passed into the bile duct
04
In acute cholecystitis: first antibiotics and supportive treatment, then elective surgery
05
Ursodeoxycholic acid: drug treatment to dissolve stones in selected patients who cannot undergo surgery

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Genel Cerrahi department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.