Gallbladder/Gallstones Treated with Minimally Invasive Surgery at Mercy

Gallbladder disease occurs when bile forms particles (gallstones) inside the gallbladder. Gallstones can be as tiny as grains of sand or as large as marbles. When gallstones block the flow of bile, the gallbladder becomes inflamed causing a gallbladder attack (acute cholecystitis). Attacks usually start soon after eating.

You may have some or all of these symptoms of gallbladder disease:

• Abdominal pain in the upper right side
• Pain sometimes spreads to right shoulder blade and back
• Pain is often severe, lasting several hours
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever

Your doctor may perform one or several of these tests to diagnose gallbladder disease:

• Complete Blood Count  (CBC)
• Abdominal Ultrasound
• Gallbladder Scan  (HIDA or DISIDA)
• Oral Cholecystogram

The best option for gallbladder disease is often surgical removal of the gallbladder. One acute attack greatly increases the chance of more attacks and possible complications later on.

The Center for Minimally Invasive Surgery offers minimally invasive surgery as a safe and effective treatment for gallbladder disease. There is typically minimal discomfort, quick recovery and no visible scarring. Most patients go home the day of surgery or the next morning.