What are the Symptoms of Gallstones?

Typical symptoms caused by gallstones include abdominal pain and nausea and vomiting.

The pain of gallstones is classically centered around the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. It is typically cramping in nature and can be 10/10 in terms of severity. The pain can move to the back on the right hand side or up to the shoulder in some cases.

Attacks usually come on a few hours after eating. Certain fat-rich food can bring about episodes of pain. These typically happen when the gallbladder contracts (in response to these types of food) around stones. In certain cases patients can develop inflammation of the gallbladder, a condition termed cholecystitis. In this instance antibiotic treatment is required to treat the condition.

Occasionally stones can pass from the gallbladder into the main bile duct. This is the tube connecting the liver with the digestive tract. If this occurs patients can develop a condition called pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Pancreatitis is a very serious condition and the recommendation is that patients developing this should have their gallbladder removed promptly to avoid recurrent bouts. Other symptoms that patients can develop if stones pass int the bile duct are those of jaundice (yellow discolouration of skin and eyes), pale stools or dark urine. If this occurs then emergency medical advice should be sought.

How can they be treated?

Gallstones are most commonly treated using minimally invasive surgery, performed either laparoscopically or with robotic assistance. The procedure involves removal of the gallbladder, which is the source of stone formation and symptoms, with the aim of relieving pain, preventing complications and returning patients back to a normal quality of life.

The procedure is performed under a general anaesthetic meaning patients are asleep for this. Once completed they will then go to recovery post-operatively before returning to the ward. Typically these procedures are performed on a day-case basis meaning that patients are able to recover post-operatively from the comfort of their own home.

Can I live without my gallbladder?

Yes you can. The function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile. Once the gallbladder is removed bile continues to be produced by the liver. Occasionally patients can experience some difficulty with rich foods but in the majority of cases gallbladder removal results in a return to an excellent quality of life.

Gallbladder Surgery with Mr Kostalas

Mr Kostalas is based at Mount Stuart Hospital and Torbay Hospital and frequently performs gallbladder surgery as part of both his NHS and private practice.

He offers both robotic and laparoscopic approaches to this type of surgery and manages patient’s in a day case fashion.

If you would like to see Mr Kostalas for a consultation to discuss your hernia and the treatment options available please click on the link below.