Gallstones are small, hard deposits of digestive fluid that accumulate in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. While they usually don’t cause any symptoms, if they get stuck in a bile duct, they can cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, bloating, nausea, and vomiting.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a doctor. In most cases, doctors will first try to diagnose the problem with an ultrasound, CT scan, or blood tests. Once gallstones are diagnosed, the doctor will usually recommend surgery for proper treatment, commonly known as Gallstone Surgery North Shore.
Gallstone surgery is also known as cholecystectomy. It is a common procedure that involves the removal of the gallbladder. The removal of the gallbladder is a safe and effective treatment that eliminates the gallstones and the risk of future occurrences.
The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and you can live without it. After the gallbladder is removed, your liver will continue to produce bile, which will flow directly into your small intestine. The main role of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile, but it is not necessary for healthy digestion.
There are two types of gallbladder removal surgery: laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy. The laparoscopic approach is preferred as it reduces the risks of scarring, pain, and recovery time.
Laparoscopic gallstone surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laparoscope, a thin tube that has a camera and a light attached to it. The surgeon makes a few small incisions in the abdomen and inserts the laparoscope along with other tools to remove the gallbladder.
Open cholecystectomy is a more invasive procedure that involves making a large incision in the abdomen. It is usually only performed if there are complications with the laparoscopic approach.
Gallstone surgery North Shore is a safe and effective procedure with a low risk of complications. However, like all surgeries, there are still potential risks. During the surgery, there is a slight chance of damaging other organs such as the liver, bile ducts, or intestines. Infections, bleeding, and blood clots are also possible, but these risks are low.
After the surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight. Recovery time varies based on the type of surgery you undergo. Most people who undergo laparoscopic gallstone removal can return to their normal activities within a week.
Patients who have open cholecystectomy may take longer to recover. It depends on how the incision heals and if there are any complications.
After surgery, it is essential to follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery. You may need to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks and adhere to a special diet. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication to alleviate any discomfort you experience during recovery.
Gallstones can cause severe abdominal pain and bloating, and if not treated, can lead to severe complications. Gallstone surgery North Shore is a safe and effective procedure that eliminates the risk of future gallstone problems.
If you are experiencing symptoms of gallstones, it is crucial to consult a doctor. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of treatment. While the surgery may seem intimidating, it is a routine procedure that has helped many people rid themselves of the pain and discomfort caused by gallstones.
