What Is the Gallbladder?

The gallbladder is an organ located beneath the liver and connected to the duodenum. It stores and concentrates bile (produced by the liver), which aids in the digestion of fats, and is released from the gallbladder into the duodenum in response to fat-containing foods. Cholecystokinin, a peptide hormone produced by the duodenum, causes muscular contraction of the gallbladder, and therefore the release of bile.

What Are the Characteristics and Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease?

Cholelithiasis (gallstones)

Gallstones are concretions typically composed of bile acids and cholesterol. The classic presentation is severe shooting pains which may occur postprandially (after a meal). Symptoms of gallstones may generally include

• steady, severe pain in the upper abdomen that worsens quickly and lasts from 30 minutes to several hours
• abdominal bloating, belching/gas/indigestion
• pain in the back between the shoulder blades
• nausea or vomiting
• pain under the right shoulder
• recurrent intolerance of fatty foods

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis refers to an acute or chronic inflammation of the gallbladder. 90% of cases of acute cholecystitis are caused by the presence of gallstones. The actual inflammation is caused secondary bacterial infection of an obstructed gallbladder; the obstruction is caused by the gallstones.

Who Is Most Likely To Have Gallbladder Disorders?

People traditionally considered at an increased risk of gallstones (cholelithiasis) are people who fit the mnemonic device “5F”:

• Female
• Fat (obesity)
• Fair (Caucasian)
• Forty (middle-aged)
• Fertile (multiple children)

What Does Gallbladder Surgery Involve?

Laparoscopic Gallstone Surgery (Cholecystectomy):

The treatment for gallstones is surgery to remove the gallbladder, known as a cholecystectomy. Today, the procedure is overwhelmingly performed laparoscopically.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves making several small incisions in the abdomen to allow the insertion of the laparoscope. The gallbladder is identified and carefully separated from the liver and other structures. Finally, the cystic duct is clipped with titanium clips and cut, then the gallbladder is removed through one of the small incisions.

What Are the Advantages Of Gallbladder Surgery?

It is the only method recognized effective in treating gallstones. The laparoscopic technique spares cutting of the abdominal muscles, avoids long incisions, and significant reduces recovery time.

How Long Does It Take?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy usually takes about an hour.

How Many Treatments Are Required?

Only one treatment is required.

What Are My Alternatives?

None proven effective. The condition requires surgical removal of the gallbladder.

Will I Have Pain?

Gallbladder removal is a major abdominal operation and a certain amount of postoperative pain occurs. Prescription pain relievers can often relieve this.

When Can I Go Back To Work Or School?

You can typically resume work or school about a week after surgery.

Who Will Perform My Treatment?

The surgery will be performed by a doctor trained in laparoscopic surgery.

How Much Does It Cost?

Please call TopSurgeons at 800-506-8084 for more information.

Will My Insurance Cover Gallbladder Surgery?

Because the procedure is medically necessary, it should be covered by insurance.