Gallstone disease treatment

Gallstone disease, or cholelithiasis, occurs as a result of the formation of stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts. They may not cause any symptoms for years, but sometimes cause severe pain, inflammation, and impaired bile outflow.

Diagnosis and treatment of gallstone disease in Kyiv can be undergone at the «Oxford Medical» medical center. We have modern expert-class equipment that allows the disease to be accurately diagnosed and, when indicated, minimally invasive operations to be performed. Make an appointment for a consultation to undergo the necessary examinations and receive individual recommendations regarding treatment.

Stones form when the composition of bile changes or its normal outflow is disrupted. If an excess of cholesterol or bilirubin accumulates in the bile, these substances may crystallize and gradually form solid deposits. The risk increases if the gallbladder does not empty regularly enough or does not empty completely, causing bile to stagnate.

The main factors that contribute to the development of gallstone disease are:

• Excess weight and obesity. They may increase the concentration of cholesterol in bile and impair contraction of the gallbladder.
• Rapid weight loss and prolonged fasting. Strict diets and a sharp decrease in weight contribute to bile stasis and the formation of calculi.
• Unbalanced nutrition. An excess of refined carbohydrates, high-calorie foods, and a lack of fiber may increase the risk of stone formation.
• Hormonal changes. An increase in estrogen levels during pregnancy or the use of certain hormonal medications affects the composition of bile and the function of the gallbladder.
• Hereditary predisposition. If close relatives have gallstone disease, the likelihood of its development is higher.
• Age and sex. The disease occurs more often in women, and the risk of stone formation increases with age.
• Concomitant diseases. Diabetes mellitus, lipid metabolism disorders, and some diseases of the liver and intestines may contribute to changes in the composition of bile.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» note: the presence of one or several risk factors does not mean that gallstones will necessarily form. However, their combination increases the likelihood of the disease.

The most characteristic manifestation of the disease is biliary colic — an attack of intense pain that usually lasts from 30 minutes to several hours. It may occur after fatty food or independently of food intake, including at night.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» emphasize: if the pain is severe, lasts for several hours, or is accompanied by fever, chills, or repeated vomiting, it is necessary to seek medical attention urgently. Particularly alarming symptoms are yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes, darkening of the urine, and discoloration of the stool. Such manifestations may indicate blockage of the bile ducts or the development of complications.

To detect stones in the gallbladder and assess its condition, an ultrasound examination is performed first. It allows the number and size of calculi to be determined, signs of inflammation to be identified, and possible disturbances in bile outflow to be detected. If necessary, the doctor prescribes additional examinations.

Diagnosis may include:

• ultrasound of the gallbladder — the main method for detecting stones and assessing the condition of the organ walls and bile ducts;
• a biochemical blood test — to assess bilirubin levels, liver enzymes, and possible signs of impaired bile outflow;
• a complete blood count — to detect signs of an inflammatory process;
• magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) — if stones in the bile ducts are suspected and could not be detected during ultrasound.

Based on the examination results, the doctor can confirm the diagnosis of gallstone disease, assess the risk of complications, and determine further management. If the stones do not cause symptoms, observation is often sufficient.

Gallstone disease does not always lead to complications. However, if a stone blocks the bile ducts or disrupts the outflow of bile from the gallbladder, acute inflammation may develop and other dangerous conditions may occur.

Possible complications include:

• acute calculous cholecystitis — inflammation of the gallbladder that is accompanied by prolonged pain and often an increase in temperature;
• choledocholithiasis — stones entering the common bile duct with impaired bile outflow;
• obstructive jaundice — yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to blockage of the bile ducts;
• acute cholangitis — infectious inflammation of the bile ducts;
• acute biliary pancreatitis — inflammation of the pancreas caused by a stone that disrupts the outflow of pancreatic secretions.

In severe cases, inflammation of the gallbladder may lead to damage to its wall, perforation, and peritonitis. Such complications occur much less frequently but require urgent medical attention.

The doctors of «Oxford Medical» note: if severe prolonged abdominal pain, fever, chills, or jaundice appear, it is necessary to seek medical attention immediately. Timely examination helps detect complications and begin the necessary treatment.

For the prevention of gallstone disease, it is recommended to:

• eat regularly, without long intervals between meals;
• consume more vegetables, fruits, whole-grain products, and other sources of fiber;
• limit excessive consumption of saturated fats, sugar, and refined carbohydrates;
• maintain a healthy weight and, if necessary, lose weight gradually;
• engage in physical activity regularly;
• control concomitant diseases, including diabetes mellitus and lipid metabolism disorders.

Following these recommendations helps reduce the risk of calculi forming in the gallbladder, but does not guarantee complete protection from the disease. If stones have already been detected, dietary changes do not ensure their dissolution. In such a case, it is important to follow the observation or treatment approach recommended by the doctor.

The cost of treatment depends on the chosen method and the need for surgical intervention. If surgery is recommended to the patient, the price is affected by its complexity, the type of anesthesia, and the length of stay in the inpatient facility.

You can preliminarily familiarize yourself with the prices for medical services at the «Oxford Medical» clinic here. After the examination, the doctor will explain the possible treatment options and provide guidance regarding their cost.

To make an appointment for a consultation with a gastroenterologist or surgeon, use the online appointment form on the website or call the clinic's contact center.

The information is for informational purposes and does not replace a doctor's consultation.

Sources:

• European Association for the Study of the Liver
• National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
• National Institutes of Health