Advanced Gallbladder Stone Surgery

Minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy with Dr Kundan Kharde

What are Gallbladder Stones?

Gallstones are solid deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ under your liver that stores bile. These stones develop when bile contains excess cholesterol, bilirubin, or when the gallbladder doesn't empty properly. While many people have gallstones without symptoms, they can cause significant pain and complications if they obstruct the bile ducts.

The condition affects approximately 10-15% of the adult population, with higher prevalence in women, older adults, and those with certain genetic factors. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications like acute pancreatitis and cholecystitis.

Types of Gallstones

Cholesterol Stones

Most common type (80%), forming when excess cholesterol in bile crystallizes.

Pigment Stones

Form from excess bilirubin, common in hemolytic anemia and cirrhosis patients.

Mixed Stones

Combination of cholesterol and pigment with various crystalline components.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Sudden, intense pain in upper right abdomen (biliary colic)
Pain between shoulder blades or right shoulder
Nausea and vomiting during episodes
Pain worsening after fatty meals
Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) if duct obstruction occurs

Diagnosis Methods

Abdominal Ultrasound

Gold standard for gallstone detection. Non-invasive, no radiation, 95% sensitivity.

CT Scan

Useful for detecting complications and evaluating pancreas and biliary ducts.

MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)

High sensitivity for bile duct stones and strictures without radiation.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Procedure

Anesthesia & Positioning: General anesthesia administered, patient positioned supine, surgical area prepped and draped.
Port Placement: Four small incisions (5-10mm) made around the abdomen for laparoscopic instruments and camera insertion.
Dissection & Visualization: Laparoscope provides HD visualization. Cystic artery identified, clipped/cauterized. Critical view of safety achieved.
Gallbladder Removal & Closure: Cystic duct clipped, gallbladder placed in specimen bag, extracted. Incisions closed with absorbable sutures or staples.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery

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Minimal Invasiveness

Four small incisions vs 15cm open incision

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Less Post-operative Pain

Reduced tissue trauma and pain medication needs

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Faster Recovery

Return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks

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Lower Infection Risk

Smaller wounds mean reduced infection probability

Recovery Timeline

Week 1: Rest, light activities, gradual diet introduction, pain management

Week 2-3: Return to desk work, light household chores, increased mobility

Week 4-6: Resume exercise, drive car, return to normal diet and activities

Week 8+: Full recovery, resume all activities including strenuous exercise

Diet After Surgery

Post-operative dietary management supports healing and adaptation:

Do Eat:

Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs)
Whole grains and fiber
Fruits and vegetables
Low-fat dairy products
Healthy oils in moderation

Avoid Initially:

Fatty and fried foods
Heavy cream and butter
Spicy dishes
High-fat dairy products
Caffeine and alcohol

Other Treatments We Offer

Appendix Surgery

Varicose Veins Treatment

Gallbladder Stones and Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Gallstones may cause biliary colic, cholecystitis, or pancreatitis. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder through small ports with camera guidance—standard of care for symptomatic gallstone disease when surgery is indicated.

Before surgery

Imaging and blood tests assess inflammation. Timing balances urgent versus elective settings.

After surgery

Patients progress from liquids to regular diet as tolerated; most resume desk work within 1–2 weeks depending on recovery.

What are gallbladder stones?

Gallbladder stones (cholelithiasis) are deposits of cholesterol, bilirubin, or bile salts that form in the gallbladder. They range from microscopic to several centimeters and can be asymptomatic or cause severe pain.

How long does laparoscopic surgery take?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy typically takes 30-60 minutes depending on complexity and inflammation severity. Most patients go home the same day or next morning.

Is laparoscopic surgery safer than open surgery?

Yes, laparoscopic surgery offers smaller incisions, less pain, reduced infection risk, and faster recovery compared to open cholecystectomy. However, 5-10% of cases may require conversion to open surgery.

What is the recovery time after laparoscopic surgery?

Most patients return to light activities within 1-2 weeks and full activities within 4-6 weeks. Some fatigue and mild discomfort may persist for 2-3 weeks.

Can I eat normally after gallbladder removal?

Yes, most people eat normally after recovery. Initially, avoid fatty and spicy foods. Your digestive system adapts over time, though some people experience loose stools initially.

Are there risks with laparoscopic cholecystectomy?

Serious complications are rare (0.3-0.5%). Possible risks include bile duct injury, bleeding, infection, and anesthesia reactions. Dr Kharde uses advanced imaging to minimize risks.

What causes gallstone pain?

Biliary colic occurs when stones block the cystic duct, preventing bile flow. This causes sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen, often after fatty meals.

Can gallstones dissolve on their own?

Spontaneous dissolution is rare and only occurs in 50% of small pigment stones over 10+ years. Surgery is the most effective and reliable treatment.

This procedure is performed at Sharvari Hospital

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