|
Gallbladder Disease
What are gallstones?
The bile inside the gallbladder can crystallize when there is an imbalance of chemicals forming gallstones. These stones may stay inside the gallbladder and not causes problems. However, sometimes the stones can travel through the bile ducts which can cause symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting. Less often, complications such as gallbladder infections or inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) may result.
How are gallstones diagnosed?
There are several tests to evaluate the presence of gallstones. The most common test is an ultrasound which scans your abdomen looking for stones. Other secondary tests may include blood tests, computerized tomography (CT) scan, hepatobiliary (HIDA) scan, or even endoscopic procedures (ERCP).
How are gallstones treated?
If patients have symptoms or complications related to their gallstones, doctors typically recommend removal of the gallbladder by a surgeon. This procedure is called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and most patients are able to go home the same day of surgery. The surgery usually take about 1 hour.
What is the recovery time?
Each patient recovers at their own pace, but in general, most patients can return to light-duty work about 1-2 weeks after surgery. Vigorous activity such as exercise and sports may be restricted for a longer period of time. No special diet is required after the operation.
How do I make an appointment?
The surgeons listed below have extensive training and experience with this type of surgery. An appointment can be made for a consultation regarding this procedure by contacting either of their offices:
Donald Hess, MD: (617) 414-8052
Miguel Burch, MD: (617) 414-8052
Lily Chang, MD: (617) 414-8080
|
