Abdominal Conditions

Gallbladder

Gallbladder disease is very common in the United States. Problems may be caused by gallstones or dysfunction of the gallbladder.

Symptoms

  • Pain under the ribs on the right, especially after eating greasy foods
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Excessive gas and bloating
  • Inability to tolerate fatty foods

Diagnosis

These are the different tests that may be used to diagnose gallbladder conditions:

Abdominal ultrasound: A gallbladder ultrasound is a noninvasive test that uses sound wave technology to capture an image of the gallbladder. Ultrasound is an excellent test to check for gallstones.

HIDA scan (cholescintigraphy): This test scans for cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) and gallbladder dysfunction. During a HIDA scan, radioactive dye is injected intravenously and then travels through the bile ducts into the small intestine.

Treatment

The only effective treatment for gallbladder problems is surgery. The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and its removal is a very commonly performed surgical procedure. Laparoscopic surgical techniques make it possible to remove the gallbladder with minimally invasive methods that allow for a quicker and less painful recovery.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: is a minimally invasive procedure in which the gallbladder is removed using only four small incisions, small instruments and a tiny camera that allows the surgeon to see the patient’s organs on a monitor while he or she is operating. A laparoscopic cholecystectomy can often be done as an outpatient procedure or with an overnight stay. There are minimal activity and diet restrictions after this operation. Patients usually return to work and resume their normal activities within a week or two.

Robotic Single Incision Cholecystectomy: Estrella Surgical Group also offers the robotic cholecystectomy procedure. This is a minimally invasive procedure for gallbladder removal during which the surgeon controls robotic arms with attached surgical instruments, which enables very precise surgical movements. This new technology allows for a single incision at the belly button. This procedure provides the cosmetic advantage of a single hidden scar without a compromise in safety or efficacy.