Gallbladder stones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. They can range in size from tiny grains of sand to larger golf ball-sized stones.

Here is some information about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of gallbladder stones:

What are causes for Gallballder Stones?
1. Excess cholesterol in bile: When the liver produces too much cholesterol in juice, it can lead to the formation of stones in the gallbladder.
2. Too much bilirubin in bile: Bilirubin is a chemical produced when the body breaks down red blood cells. If there is too much of it in bile, it can       cause stones to form.
3. Reduced gallbladder movement: If the gallbladder does not empty properly, the bile can become concentrated and form stones.
4. Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing gallbladder stones.
5. Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing gallbladder stones.

What are the Symptoms of Gallballder Stones?
– Pain in the upper right abdomen can spread to the back or right shoulder blade.
– Nausea and vomiting.- Fever and chills.
– Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) in complicated cases.

What are the treatments for Gallballder Stones?
1. Medications: Rapid weight loss can promote gall stones and some medications can help prevent formation. Once formed, medicine rarely helps in dissolving and if symptoms of pain are there it is always safe to consult a surgeon. In fact, self-medications can be hazardous.
2. Surgery: If the stones are causing symptoms or complications, such as inflammation or infection of the gallbladder, surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) may be necessary. This can be done through minimally invasive surgery known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

(Please note – Our Director, Dr Vinay Shaw has pioneered a safe HAP technique for Laparoscopic cholecystectomy which achieves modified critical view of safety and has presented his novel work in national and international forums)

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure involves using an endoscope to remove stones that have moved into the bile ducts (channel which moves juices from liver to intestine). The endoscope is passed through mouth involving no visible cuts to remove the stones if it has slipped into bile duct. Once ERCP is done, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is usually followed to remove the gall bladder to prevent complications.
It’s important to note that the treatment plan for gallbladder stones will depends on individual case and should be discussed with a healthcare professional.