Gallbladder Surgery

Gallbladder Surgery at Saru Hospital, Mumbai

The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a substance that helps in the digestion of fats. While the gallbladder is not essential for life, problems such as gallstones, inflammation, or infection can lead to severe health issues. At Saru Hospital, we offer advanced diagnostic and surgical solutions to treat gallbladder diseases, providing both non-surgical and surgical treatment options to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. Whether you require a gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) or have other gallbladder concerns, our expert team is here to provide the highest standard of care.

What is Gallbladder Disease?

Gallbladder disease refers to various conditions that affect the gallbladder, leading to symptoms such as pain, nausea, and digestive issues. The most common conditions include:

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): These are hard deposits that form inside the gallbladder. They can obstruct bile flow, causing pain (often referred to as a gallbladder attack) and leading to inflammation or infection.
• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually due to gallstones blocking the ducts. It can cause severe pain, fever, and vomiting.
• Biliary Dyskinesia: A condition where the gallbladder does not function properly, often resulting in digestive problems and pain.
• Choledocholithiasis: The presence of gallstones in the common bile duct, which can block bile flow and lead to jaundice or pancreatitis.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease

The symptoms of gallbladder problems can vary, but common signs include:

• Abdominal Pain: Typically occurring in the upper right side of the abdomen, often after meals. This pain may last from a few minutes to several hours.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Often associated with meals, especially after consuming fatty or greasy foods.
• Bloating and Indigestion: A feeling of fullness or discomfort, particularly after eating fatty foods.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate a blockage of the bile ducts.
• Fever: In cases of infection or inflammation.

Diagnosis of Gallbladder Disease

To diagnose gallbladder disease, the medical team at Saru Hospital uses advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate your symptoms and confirm the condition:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will assess your symptoms, especially abdominal pain and tenderness, and perform a physical examination.
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify signs of infection or liver dysfunction that may be related to gallbladder issues.
• Ultrasound: The most common and effective imaging test for detecting gallstones and inflammation in the gallbladder.
• CT Scan: A CT scan may be used if complications such as infection or a blocked bile duct are suspected.
• HIDA Scan: A radioactive imaging test that can assess how well the gallbladder is functioning and detect issues such as biliary dyskinesia.
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This test may be performed if there is a suspicion of gallstones in the bile duct or if there is a need for removal of stones.

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Disease

The treatment for gallbladder disease depends on the severity of the condition. At Saru Hospital, we offer both non-surgical and surgical treatments:

Non-Surgical Treatment

In some cases, if the symptoms are mild or the disease is in its early stages, non-surgical treatments may be considered:

• Medications: Certain medications may be prescribed to help dissolve gallstones, although this approach is less common and often less effective than surgery.
• Dietary Changes: Adopting a low-fat diet can help reduce the occurrence of gallbladder attacks and improve symptoms in some cases.
• Antibiotics: If there is an infection in the gallbladder (cholecystitis), antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection before surgery.

Surgical Treatment – Cholecystectomy

The most common and definitive treatment for gallbladder disease is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy. There are two main types of cholecystectomy performed at Saru Hospital:

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the preferred method for removing the gallbladder. It is a minimally invasive procedure that offers several advantages:

• Smaller Incisions: The procedure involves making small incisions (about 1-2 cm) through which surgical instruments and a camera (laparoscope) are inserted.
• Quick Recovery: Most patients can go home the same day or the next day, with a faster recovery time and minimal scarring.
• Less Pain: The minimally invasive nature of the surgery typically results in less post-operative pain and discomfort.
• Shorter Hospital Stay: Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

Open Cholecystectomy

In certain cases, such as when the gallbladder is severely inflamed or infected, or if there are complications, an open cholecystectomy may be necessary. This procedure involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to remove the gallbladder. While recovery time is longer, the surgery is highly effective in treating complicated cases of gallbladder disease.

Post-Surgery Care and Recovery

Following gallbladder surgery, it is important to follow the post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Pain Management: Pain medications will be prescribed to manage discomfort after surgery.
• Incision Care: Keep the surgical site clean and dry. Instructions for wound care will be provided to prevent infection.
• Dietary Adjustments: You may be advised to start with clear liquids and gradually return to a normal diet. Avoid fatty or greasy foods, as the body adjusts to the absence of the gallbladder.
• Activity Restrictions: Rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 1-2 weeks to allow the body to heal.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and ensure there are no complications.

Why Choose Saru Hospital for Gallbladder Surgery?

• Expert Surgeons: Our team of experienced surgeons specializes in gallbladder surgery, using the latest techniques to ensure a safe and effective procedure.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: We prioritize laparoscopic cholecystectomy whenever possible, ensuring quicker recovery times and less discomfort for our patients.
• Advanced Diagnostic Tools: Saru Hospital is equipped with the latest imaging technologies, including ultrasound and CT scans, to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.
• Patient-Centered Care: We take the time to understand your concerns, discuss all treatment options, and develop a personalized plan that suits your specific needs.
• Comprehensive Support: From initial diagnosis to post-surgery recovery, we offer continuous care to ensure optimal outcomes.

Contact Saru Hospital for Gallbladder Surgery

If you’re experiencing symptoms of gallbladder disease or have been diagnosed with gallstones or other gallbladder conditions, contact Saru Hospital today. Our expert team will provide the care you need to treat your condition and help you regain your health. Schedule a consultation to learn more about our surgical options for gallbladder treatment.