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Gallstones Treatment
Best Treatment for gallbladder stones
Do you suffer from constant abdominal pain due to gallbladder stones? Get permanent relief from gallstones by undergoing gallbladder removal surgery with Krescent Healthcare’s experienced and expert surgeons. Our patient experience at Krescent Healthcare is seamless and hassle-free, from consultation to postoperative care.
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What is Gallbladder Stone?
A gallstone is a solid object that develops within the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. The gallbladder's main function is to store and release bile, a fat-digesting fluid made by the liver.
Stones can range in size from tiny sand-like particles to larger pebble-sized stones. Gallstones can be composed of either cholesterol or bilirubin (a waste product of red blood cell breakdown).
Symptoms of gallstones can be absent in some people and can remain asymptomatic for a long time. However, obstructing the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine, can cause many health problems. The gallbladder attack is characterised by severe abdominal pain when a gallstone blocks the bile ducts.
Types of Gallbladder Stones
Types of Gallbladder Stones
There are two main types of gallstones based on their composition:
Cholesterol Stones : Approximately 80 to 85% of gallbladder stones are cholesterol stones. They are mainly made up of cholesterol, a fatty substance that is found in the bile. The size and colour of these stones can vary from yellow to green. A cholesterol stone is formed when bile components are imbalanced, resulting in excess cholesterol and a reduction in bile salts and lecithin.
Pigment Stones : In addition to bilirubin, which is a waste product produced by the breakdown of red blood cells, pigment stones are also made up of calcium salts that are found in bile. Unlike cholesterol stones, pigment stones are usually smaller and darker in colour. A pigment stone can develop if the bile contains too much bilirubin or not enough bile salts to keep the bilirubin soluble.
The Various Gallbladder Stones Treatment Options
A gallbladder stone can be treated surgically or non-surgically. Several factors play a role in determining the treatment options, including the size and number of gallstones, the presence of symptoms, the risk of complications, and the patient’s overall health. Here are some options for treating gallstones:
1. Non - Surgical Treatment for Gallstones
Gallstones are treated non-surgically by managing symptoms and, in some cases, dissolving small stones. These treatments include:
Observation & Monitoring : Gallstones that cause no symptoms may be observed and monitored without immediate intervention. However, regular follow-ups and imaging tests may be recommended by your doctor to detect any changes.
Medications : Prescribed medications, such as Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), can aid in the gradual dissolution of gallstones. Other effective options include ursodiol or chenodiol, which are available as oral bile acid pills. These medicines work by reducing liver-produced cholesterol and thinning bile, facilitating the dissolution of gallstones.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) : ESWL uses shock waves to break down gallbladder stones into smaller pieces, which can then pass out of the gallbladder more smoothly. It is appropriate for patients with small cholesterol stones who are not candidates for surgery.
MBTE Injection : To dissolve gallstones, methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) is injected into the gallbladder and dissolves them quickly. However, MTBE may cause burning pain or other side effects.
Endoscopic Drainage : Endoscopic drainage is a non-invasive approach to treating gallstone-related complications, particularly in cases where the bile ducts become obstructed by gallstones. This method replicates the natural pathway of bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine. To perform endoscopic drainage, a camera is inserted through the mouth and throat to access the cystic duct. A wire is then guided into the gallbladder through this duct and is coiled to mimic the normal flow of bile out of the small intestine, similar to that of a healthy gallbladder.
2. Surgical Treatment for Gallstones
Gallbladder stones can be treated surgically by removing the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy. Around 80 percent of people with gallstone symptoms will require surgery for long-term relief. Surgery is the definitive treatment when gallstones cause symptoms or complications.
Cholecystectomy can be classified into two types:
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (Keyhole Surgery): Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most common and highly effective method for treating gallbladder stones. This procedure involves creating multiple small incisions in the abdomen. Through these incisions, a laparoscope (a flexible tube with a camera) and surgical tools are inserted. To provide ample space for the surgeon to manoeuvre, your abdomen is filled with carbon dioxide gas. The laparoscope provides a clear view of the gallbladder and surrounding tissues on a monitor. Then, the surgeon detaches the gallbladder from its connections, as well as those of the bile duct and blood vessels. Through one of the small incisions, the gallbladder is pulled out once it is separated. The remaining incisions are closed, and the operation is complete. Compared to open surgery, laparoscopic cholecystectomy has a small amount of pain, is faster to recover, and leaves a smaller scar.
Open Cholecystectomy : A laparoscopic cholecystectomy may not be appropriate in some cases, and open surgery may be necessary. In an open cholecystectomy, a larger incision is made in the abdomen, and the gallbladder is removed directly. The open cholecystectomy is used when complications arise, scarring from previous surgeries, or medical conditions make laparoscopic gallstone surgery difficult. A laparoscopic or open cholecystectomy effectively removes the gallbladder, preventing recurrent gallstone problems. Generally, the absence of the gallbladder does not have a significant impact on digestion and health since bile flows directly from the liver to the small intestine, bypassing the gallbladder.
Home Remedies to avoid Gallstones
The home remedies may not completely dissolve gallstones or replace surgical treatment, but some people find certain natural approaches helpful. You should consult a healthcare professional before trying any home remedies, especially if you are experiencing severe symptoms or complications. Here are some home remedies that are often recommended:
Artichoke : Gallbladder problems can be treated naturally with artichoke extract, which promotes bile flow.
Castor Oil pack : Health practitioners may recommend applying a castor oil pack to the abdomen to support gallbladder health.
Dietary Changes : Consuming more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins while limiting high-fat, fried, spicy, and processed foods may help minimise the risk of gallstone-related symptoms.
Dandelion : People usually drink dandelion teas or coffees to remove gallbladder stones, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source.
Hydration : Drinking plenty of water throughout the day may help prevent gallstone formation and keep your body healthy.
Lemon juice and olive juice : It is traditional to mix lemon juice with olive oil before going to bed in order to manage gallstone-related symptoms.
Psyllium husk :Drinking peppermint tea or using peppermint oil may help relieve gallstone symptoms as peppermint is believed to stimulate bile flow.
Psyllium husk: Isabgol, or psyllium husk, is a popular home remedy for regularising bowel movements and inhibiting cholesterol gallstone formation.
Turmeric : Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit the gallbladder.
Recovery Tips after Gallbladder Stone Surgery
You should follow these recovery tips after a gallbladder stone operation to ensure a smooth recovery process and reduce the risk of complications.
Avoid Smoking & Alcohol : During recovery, avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, as these can hinder healing.
Dietary Changes : You may be advised to stick to a light diet after surgery. Gradually, you can introduce regular foods as tolerated. However, avoid heavy or fatty meals that may cause discomfort.
Follow Doctor’s instructions : Follow your surgeon's postoperative instructions, which may include wound care, medications, diet, and physical activity.
Hydration : Keep hydrated throughout the day to promote healing and prevent constipation, a common side effect after surgery.
Incision Care : Keep the incision area clean and dry. Follow your surgeon's instructions for dressing changes, and watch for signs of infection.
Monitor Symptoms : If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, such as intense pain, fever, chills, or unusual discharge from the incision area, contact your surgeon immediately.
Pain Management : In addition to prescribed pain medications, you may also take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, if your doctor recommends them.
Postoperative Follow - up : Make sure you attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon. These visits allow your doctor to monitor your healing progress and to address any concerns you may have.
Rest and limit physical activity : After surgery, rest and recover adequately. Avoid strenuous activities and vigorous exercise for a few weeks, as these could strain the healing incisions.
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