GENERAL HEALTH People with gallstones may develop blockage and inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), the biliary tree (cholangitis), or the pancreas (acute pancreatitis). These conditions cause constant severe pain, fevers and chills and are medical emergencies. People require hospital admission, intravenous fluids, pain relief and antibiotics. If gallstones block the flow of bile, the individual may develop the yellowing of the skin and eyes known as jaundice. People with pancreatitis often have constant, severe abdominal pain that goes into their back. If the blockage and infection are not treated quickly enough, the results, including organ rupture, may be fatal. How do I know if gallstones are causing my symptoms? A number of tests can be performed to look for gallstones and determine what treatment options may be suitable. Blood tests determine how the liver is functioning and whether an infection is developing. An abdominal ultrasound can confirm the diagnosis. This radiation-free test visualises the solid abdominal organs and is the first-line imaging test for gallstones. Other tests include an abdominal CT and MRI scan. How should my gallstones be treated? The answer depends on your personal situation. People who don’t have pain or other symptoms won’t require immediate treatment. They can be managed expectantly; that is, they can seek appropriate medical treatment if and when they develop symptoms. However, if they’ve had biliary colic or infection (cholecystitis, cholangitis, or pancreatitis), their doctor is likely to recommend removal of their gallbladder with the offending stone. Although the gallbladder is an important organ, it’s not essential and can be removed in individuals with biliary colic or complications. This is usually done as a minimally invasive keyhole operation called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. While the person is under anaesthesia, small incisions are made in the abdomen to allow entry ports for a small video camera and the surgical instruments. Carbon dioxide gas in gently inserted through these ports to distend the abdomen and make it easier to see everything. All the surgery is done through the ports. The benefits of removing the gallbladder laparoscopically rather than as an open procedure include: Smaller scars and a superior cosmetic outcome Shorter hospital stay Reduced blood loss and risk of infection Reduced tissue trauma, and therefore reduced pain and discomfort Reduced need for pain relief and reduced side effects (such as constipation) Faster recovery and return to work, with two to three weeks to full recovery, instead of four to six weeks 60 Pindara Magazine 2016
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Seven
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