Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Gallbladder Stones: When Is Surgery Needed?
Gallstones are hardened deposits that develop inside the gallbladder. Many people may have gallstones without experiencing any symptoms, while others may develop recurrent abdominal pain, nausea or digestive discomfort.
Gallstones can sometimes block the normal flow of bile and may lead to complications. Therefore, persistent or severe symptoms should be properly evaluated by experienced gastroenterologists and gastrointestinal surgeons.
The common symptoms may include:
- Pain in the upper right or upper-middle abdomen
- Pain after meals, especially fatty foods
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal discomfort or bloating
- Pain that may radiate towards the back or shoulder
Repeated or severe abdominal pain should not be ignored and requires timely clinical assessment.
In some cases, gallstones can block bile flow and lead to serious medical complications, including:
- Gallbladder inflammation (Cholecystitis)
- Bile duct obstruction
- Jaundice
- Cholangitis (bacterial infection of the bile duct)
- Gallstone pancreatitis
These conditions may require prompt medical attention and appropriate interventional or surgical treatment.
Not every person with gallstones requires surgery. The decision depends on symptoms, recurrence, inflammation and the presence of complications.
For patients who require surgical treatment, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a commonly used minimally invasive procedure. It involves removing the gallbladder through small abdominal incisions, ensuring faster recovery, minimal pain, and short hospital stay.
The appropriate treatment is decided after clinical examination, ultrasound, and necessary investigations.
Seek immediate medical evaluation if you experience:
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain
- Fever
- Repeated vomiting
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin (Jaundice)
- Chills or significant weakness
These symptoms may indicate an acute complication that requires timely medical or surgical intervention. Gangasheel Hospital provides 24x7 emergency gastroenterological and surgical care.
Gallstones may remain silent in some people, but symptomatic or complicated gallstones may require medical or surgical treatment. Early evaluation can help identify the condition and determine the appropriate treatment before complications arise.
For evaluation and treatment of gallbladder and other gastrointestinal surgical conditions, consult the Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Gangasheel Hospital, Bareilly.
Gangasheel Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging (High-Resolution Ultrasound, CT scan), advanced Modular Operating Theatres for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a fully equipped Gastro Intervention Lab (ERCP, Endoscopy), dedicated Intensive Care Units (ICU), and experienced gastroenterologists and laparoscopic surgeons available 24x7.