Gall Bladder Diseases Treatment in Ulwe, Navi Mumbai

Dr. Shankar Bhanushali is a gastroenterologist in Navi Mumbai. He does gallbladder stone surgery and has vast experience and expertise. This page discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment.

What are Gallbladder stones?

Gallbladder stones, also known as gallstones or cholelithiasis, are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver.

Gallbladder stones cause

Gallbladder stones can be caused by several factors, including:

• Excess cholesterol: An imbalance in the components of bile, such as an excess of cholesterol, can lead to the formation of gallstones.
• Concentrated bile: If the bile in the gallbladder becomes too concentrated, it promotes the precipitation of substances like cholesterol and bilirubin, forming solid particles and, eventually gallstones.
• Gallbladder motility issues : When the gallbladder does not contract and empty properly, it can contribute to gallstone formation. Prolonged stasis of bile in the gallbladder allows for the concentration and accumulation of substances that form stones
• Obesity
• Gender and age: Women, especially those with multiple pregnancies, are more prone to gallstones. Additionally, the risk of gallstone formation increases with age.
• Hormonal factors

Gallstones symptoms

Gallstones can cause a range of symptoms, although some people may have gallstones without experiencing any symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include

• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals with gallstones may experience nausea and vomiting, particularly after eating a meal high in fat.
• Indigestion and bloating: Gallstones can cause indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness after meals.
• Changes in bowel movements: Gallstones may affect bowel movements, leading to diarrhea or pale-colored stools.
• Jaundice



It's important to note that these symptoms are not exclusive to gallstones and can also be caused by other conditions. If you experience any of these symptoms or suspect gallstones, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional.

Diagnosis of gallstones

The diagnosis of gallstones typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests.

Here are the common methods used for diagnosing gallstones:

• Medical history and physical examination: Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, duration, and severity of pain, as well as any risk factors. They will also perform a physical examination to check for signs of gallbladder inflammation or tenderness.
• Imaging tests : The common imaging tests used include Ultrasound, CT scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to assess liver function and look for signs of inflammation or infection.

Surgical Treatment Options for Gallbladder stones

Surgical treatment options for gallbladder stones primarily involve the removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy. The surgical approaches for gallbladder removal include:

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:

This is the most common and minimally invasive approach. It involves making several small incisions in the abdomen through which a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and specialized surgical instruments are inserted. The surgeon uses these instruments to visualize and remove the gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several advantages, including shorter hospital stays, faster recovery, and less scarring than open surgery.

Open Cholecystectomy:

In some cases, an open surgical approach may be required, mainly if there are complications, such as a severely inflamed gallbladder or scarring from previous surgeries. Open cholecystectomy involves making a larger incision in the upper abdomen to access and remove the gallbladder directly. Although it is a more invasive procedure, open cholecystectomy can still be highly effective in treating gallbladder stones.

Both laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy provides a long-term solution for gallstone-related symptoms. After removing the gallbladder, bile flows directly from the liver into the small intestine, bypassing the gallbladder. The absence of the gallbladder does not usually cause significant health issues or affect digestion in most individuals

Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Gallstones

Nonsurgical treatment options for gallstones include:

• Medications
• Oral dissolution therapy
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

Nonsurgical treatment options for gallstones are primarily aimed at individuals unable or unwilling to undergo surgery. These options may be considered for some instances, particularly for those with small gallstones, no or minimal symptoms, and a low risk of complications.

However, it's important to note that nonsurgical treatments may not be effective for all gallstones, and the stones may reoccur.

What size of gallbladder stones need surgery ?

In the case of symptomatic gallstones, the size of the stones is one of the considerations in determining the need for surgery. As a general guideline, gallbladder stones larger than 3 centimeters (1.2 inches) in diameter are more likely to cause complications and are often recommended for surgical removal.

Foods to Avoid

Here are some foods that are commonly advised to be avoided if you have gallstones:

• High-fat foods
• Fried and greasy foods
• Extracorporeal Spicy foods
• High-cholesterol foods
• Processed and high-sugar foods
• Caffeine and alcohol

Food for People with Gall Bladder Stones

While individual dietary needs may vary, here are some general guidelines and food recommendations for people with gallbladder stones:

• High-fiber foods
• Lean protein
• Healthy fats
• Low-fat dairy
• Whole grains
• Plenty of fruits and vegetables
• Hydration
• Small, frequent meals
• Herbal teas

Listening to your body and identifying specific foods that may trigger symptoms or discomfort is essential. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian specializing in gallbladder health can provide personalized dietary recommendations based on your individual needs and help you develop a suitable meal plan.