Gallbladder Removal Surgery in Singapore

Gallstones are like the unwanted guests at a party – small, hard, and incredibly annoying. They’re like tiny pebbles that have taken up residence in the gallbladder, causing all sorts of trouble.

For some unlucky souls, these tiny troublemakers can cause intense pain, nausea, and vomiting. That’s why doctors often recommend gallbladder removal surgery for those who suffer from severe symptoms. It’s like saying goodbye to a pesky roommate – you’ll feel a little lighter and a lot happier without them.
 

The functions of the gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, on the right side of the abdomen. Despite its small size, the gallbladder plays a crucial role in the digestive system. Its main function is to store bile, a substance produced by the liver that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats.

When we consume a meal high in fat, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the small intestine. This process allows the body to break down and absorb dietary fats effectively.

In addition to storing bile, the gallbladder also concentrates and regulates its release.

The bile produced by the liver is initially very diluted, but the gallbladder absorbs water and electrolytes from it, which in turn makes the bile more concentrated.

This concentration process enables the gallbladder to store a larger amount of bile in a smaller space, ensuring an adequate supply for digestion.

Understanding gallbladder problems

Although the gallbladder performs essential functions, it can become susceptible to various issues. One of the most common problems is the formation of gallstones. Gallstones are hardened deposits that can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. They are usually made up of cholesterol or bilirubin, a yellowish pigment derived from the breakdown of red blood cells.

Gallstones can develop when there is an imbalance in the components of bile or when the gallbladder does not empty properly. These stones can cause pain and discomfort, leading to conditions like cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) or cholangitis (inflammation of the bile ducts). In severe cases, gallstones can block the bile ducts, which can result in a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
 

Common symptoms of gallbladder problems

When the gallbladder is affected by issues such as gallstones or inflammation, several symptoms may arise. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, and they often occur after meals, especially those high in fat. Some common signs of gallbladder problems include:

• Abdominal pain: The most common symptom is a sharp or cramp-like pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. The pain may also radiate towards the back or shoulder blades.
• Nausea and vomiting: Many individuals with gallbladder problems experience bouts of nausea and may even vomit after consuming fatty meals.
• Indigestion and bloating: The presence of gallstones can disrupt the normal flow of bile, leading to indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness even after small meals.
• Jaundice: If a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can cause a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream, resulting in yellowing of the skin and eyes.
   

Diagnosing gallbladder issues

To diagnose gallbladder problems, healthcare professionals employ various diagnostic methods. These may include a combination of medical history evaluation, physical examination, and laboratory tests.

During a physical examination, a doctor may gently press on the abdomen to check for tenderness or swelling. They may also inquire about symptoms and risk factors. Additionally, blood tests can help identify any abnormalities in liver function, as well as the presence of infection or inflammation.

Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide detailed images of the gallbladder and detect the presence of gallstones or other abnormalities. In some cases, specialized tests like a hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan or an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be necessary to evaluate the function and structure of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
 

Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy)

In cases where gallbladder problems persist or cause severe symptoms, gallbladder removal surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, may be recommended. Cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure that involves the removal of the gallbladder. It can be performed using two main techniques: laparoscopic cholecystectomy and open cholecystectomy.

Gallbladder removal surgery may be necessary for several reasons. The most common indications for cholecystectomy include:

• Gallstones: If gallstones are causing recurrent pain or leading to complications such as inflammation or infection, gallbladder removal may be necessary.
• Gallbladder inflammation: In cases of acute or chronic cholecystitis, where the gallbladder becomes swollen and inflamed, surgical removal may be required to relieve symptoms and prevent further complications.
• Biliary dyskinesia: This condition refers to a gallbladder that does not contract or empty properly, causing symptoms without the presence of gallstones. In such cases, cholecystectomy can provide relief.
   

Preparing for gallbladder removal surgery

Before undergoing cholecystectomy, certain preparations are necessary to ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery. These preparations may include:

• Medical evaluation: The patient will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests, imaging studies, and an assessment of overall health. This evaluation helps determine the patient’s suitability for surgery and identifies any potential risks or complications.
• Dietary adjustments: In the days leading up to the surgery, the patient may be instructed to follow a special diet that is low in fat. This helps reduce the workload on the gallbladder and minimize the risk of complications during surgery.
• Medication: The healthcare provider will review the patient’s current medications and may advise adjustments or temporary discontinuation of certain drugs before the surgery. It is therefore crucial to inform the healthcare team about any allergies or medications being taken, including over-the-counter drugs and dietary supplements.
   

Recovery and post-operative care after gallbladder removal surgery

After gallbladder removal surgery, proper care and adherence to post-operative instructions are required for a smooth recovery. Depending on the surgical technique used and the patient’s overall health, recovery times may vary. However, most people can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks.

During the initial recovery period, the patient may experience discomfort or pain at the incision site. Pain medications prescribed by the healthcare provider can help manage these symptoms. It is necessary to follow the prescribed dosage and in case any unexpected side effects occur, you should inform your doctor immediately.

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