Goficure

© 2022 by Goficure

Blog Header Image tt

Is gallstones surgery a major operation? Can gallstones recur after surgery?

Goficure - Blog Page - Is gallstones surgery a major operation? Can gallstones recur after surgery? (Blog Post) Last Updated April 27, 2024

Overview

Gallstone surgery or cholecystectomy is the removal of the gallbladder. It is a very common and safe operation.

The gallbladder collects a digestive fluid called bile. When the bile crystallizes, it forms pebble-like structures called gallstones. Gallstones or biliary calculi can block the gallbladder causing pain, infection, and inflammation.

A gallstones surgery is recommended when it is causing major complications like:

  • Intense pain (biliary colic)
  • Gallbladder inflammation
  • Pancreatitis or inflammation of the pancreas when the gallstones block the bile duct
  • Cholangitis occurs when the gallstones block the bile ducts causing infection and inflammation
  • Liver infection
  • Jaundice

Is gallstones surgery a major operation?

Most people go for laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery or laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This is a non-invasive procedure.

A laparoscopic or keyhole surgery usually takes one to two hours to perform. During this surgery, the surgeon makes a few small incisions to insert the laparoscope and other surgical tools to remove the gallbladder. The surgeon will close the incisions with stitches or surgical glue.

Recovery is faster and complications are minimal in a laparoscopic procedure. You may be released the same day or the next day. After two weeks you can resume normal activities.

An open cholecystectomy is a major operation and is done when the gallbladder is severely inflamed and infected, scarred, or there are other complications. A surgeon may also switch to an open procedure while performing a laparoscopic procedure if they notice heavy bleeding, the patient is obese, or due to poor visibility of internal organs.

After an open cholecystectomy, you have to stay in the hospital for a few days or a week. Returning to normal activities may take up to a month.

Related posts

Can gallstones recur after surgery?

Yes, a recurrence of gallstones has been observed in some patients. Research studies show that incomplete removal of gallbladder may lead to residual or leftover gallstones. These residuals can cause health issues after a few years.

Gallstones may also continue to develop in the bile ducts even after removal of the gallbladder. The presence of biliary sludge also increases the risk of developing gallstones in the future.

Many patients who cannot undergo surgery, opt for nonsurgical treatments to get rid of the gallstones. These treatments are not practical for people who are suffering from chronic symptoms. The disadvantage of these treatments is that the stones may recur after some time.

Patients having multiple medical complications or acute cholecystitis may not be fit to undergo surgery. A percutaneous removal is used to drain out the stones from the gallbladder. This is a long-term treatment and has a high chance of recurrence of the disease.

Image

How to prevent gallstones recurrence?

There are several ways to prevent gallstone formation or slow down its recurrence.

Managing weight & healthy diet

Obesity or diabetes puts you at high risk of developing gallstones. Follow a healthy diet that is rich in fiber, vitamins, low fat, and minerals. Whole grains, fresh fruits, and leafy vegetables are loaded with fiber and help in the easy passage of stools.

Lose weight gradually and avoid crash diets as they can be harmful to the body and can increase cholesterol levels. Regular intake of healthy fats like olive oil, omega-3 fatty acids, avocados, fish, and flaxseed helps in preventing the disease.

Coffee is also known to stimulate contraction of the gallbladder and accelerate the flow of bile.
Water and large amounts of fluids like fresh juices or soups help in urination and drain out gallstones.

Regular exercises

Regular physical activities, yoga, or exercises prevent weight gain and reduce the risks of developing gallstones. They also help in managing pain and inflammation.

Stop your suffering NOW

Don't just jump into a surgery because your doctor is advising you to go for it. Consult our doctors to know if you need a surgery at all. Rest assured, we WON'T recommend you surgery unless it's the last resort.

CALL NOW 636-600-8634

Trending posts

Final words

A cholecystectomy surgery is one of the best procedures to treat gallstones and prevent the recurrence of the disease. Conservative treatment may successfully cure the disease and manage the symptoms but there may be risks of recurrence after a few years. Even after a gallstone surgery, you must follow a healthy diet, exercise regime, recommended medications, and follow up with the doctor for early diagnosis of the disease if there are any symptoms.

Dos
  • Consult your doctor immediately if you are experiencing any symptoms of gallbladder stones
  • Take medications as recommended
  • Stay moderately active post-surgery
Don'ts
  • Eat spicy foods for at least a month after surgery
  • Start rigorous activities or exercises
  • Avoid bedrest

Consult a doctor

Patient name is required
Mobile number is required
Condition is required