Gallbladder removal, a procedure known as cholecystectomy, is a standard surgery, and it addresses issues with the small organ located beneath your liver. When your gallbladder experiences problems, a surgeon might recommend its removal, and this surgery addresses the source of discomfort. Deciding on surgery is a significant step, so understanding the reasons for it is helpful. Here is more information about situations that would require gallbladder removal surgery:
Gallstone Issues
Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, and they may cause no symptoms for a long time. When gallstones block the bile duct, they produce sudden pain in the upper right abdomen. A doctor might recommend surgery if gallstones cause complications.
The presence of gallstones is a primary indicator for surgery. Gallstones range in size from tiny grains to a golf ball, and you might have one or many gallstones without knowing it. While these stones might pass without intervention, they might become lodged. A lodged stone leads to a gallbladder attack, which is characterized by intense pain.
Cholecystitis Diagnosis
Cholecystitis refers to gallbladder inflammation, and it may result from a gallstone blocking a duct. A diagnosis typically follows an episode of severe abdominal pain. To confirm the condition, doctors use imaging tests, such as an ultrasound.
The inflammation might be acute, appearing suddenly, or chronic, persisting over time. An acute case presents with sharp pain, fever, and nausea. Chronic cholecystitis may involve less intense but recurring pain and digestive discomfort. To determine the ideal course of action, both forms of cholecystitis are evaluated.
Your doctor will review your medical history and symptoms, and a physical exam will help pinpoint the source of the pain. Based on the findings, a treatment plan is developed, which may involve surgery to prevent future flare-ups and complications. This approach addresses the underlying cause of the inflammation.
Biliary Dyskinesia
Biliary dyskinesia is a condition in which the gallbladder does not empty bile properly. This malfunction occurs even without the presence of gallstones. The primary symptom is pain in the upper abdomen after eating, especially fatty foods. You might also experience nausea and indigestion. Diagnosing biliary dyskinesia involves a specialized test, which is called a HIDA scan.
Pancreatitis Diagnosis
Gallstones are a typical cause of pancreatitis that could require gallbladder removal. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The condition occurs when gallstones travel out of the gallbladder and block the pancreatic duct. This blockage prevents digestive enzymes from leaving the pancreas, causing them to attack the organ itself.
Symptoms of pancreatitis include:
- Pain that radiates
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
This condition requires prompt medical attention, and a doctor can confirm pancreatitis through blood tests and imaging scans. Because gallstones are the root cause, removing the gallbladder prevents future episodes. This preventative step helps protect your pancreas from further damage.
Schedule Gallbladder Removal Today
Understanding these conditions helps you have an informed discussion with your doctor. If you are experiencing related symptoms, a medical evaluation is the next step. They will discuss the findings with you, and together you will decide on a path forward. To explore your options and see if gallbladder removal is proper for you, schedule a consultation with a specialist today.
