HARDENED DEPOSITS IN THE GALLBLADDER
Gallstones
Hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, often without symptoms but sometimes causing pain, inflammation or complications. Surgical removal of the gallbladder is the definitive treatment.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What are Gallstones
Gallstones are hardened deposits — most commonly made of cholesterol — that form in the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. Many people with gallstones have no symptoms (silent gallstones) and may never need treatment. However, gallstones can cause symptoms when they block the gallbladder outlet or bile ducts, leading to biliary colic (severe right upper abdominal pain after fatty meals), cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), choledocholithiasis (stones in the bile duct), pancreatitis or cholangitis (infection of the bile ducts). Risk factors include female gender, age over 40, family history, obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, diabetes, certain medications and high-cholesterol diet. Diagnosis is made with ultrasound. Symptomatic gallstones are typically treated by surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation, management of complications and surgical referral at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- High cholesterol content of bile
- Female gender and age over 40
- Family history of gallstones
- Obesity and rapid weight loss
- Pregnancy and hormonal factors
- Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
- High-cholesterol diet and sedentary lifestyle
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Ultrasound is the test of choice; CT, MRI and specific bile-duct imaging in selected cases
Often need no treatment, just observation
Usually treated by surgical removal of the gallbladder
Cholecystitis, bile duct stones, pancreatitis and cholangitis
Healthy weight, balanced diet and regular activity
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Surgical Removal for Symptomatic Gallstones
The most effective treatment for symptomatic or complicated gallstones is laparoscopic surgical removal of the gallbladder. Silent gallstones in most patients are managed by observation and lifestyle measures, with intervention reserved for symptomatic disease.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the abdomen and arranges ultrasound and blood tests to confirm the diagnosis and look for complications.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on whether the gallstones are silent or symptomatic, presence of complications and overall health.
- 3
Medical Management
Management of acute attacks, treatment of complications and coordination of surgical referral for cholecystectomy.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up after surgery, with dietary guidance and management of any persistent symptoms or new gallstone-related issues.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Observation for Silent Gallstones
Most patients with silent gallstones can be safely observed without treatment, with surgery reserved for those who develop symptoms.
Treatment of Acute Biliary Colic
Acute attacks are managed with pain relief, hydration and antiemetic therapy, with surgical referral arranged.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Referral for surgical evaluation)
Surgical removal of the gallbladder by laparoscopy is the definitive treatment for symptomatic gallstones.
ERCP for Bile Duct Stones (Referral for gastroenterology procedure)
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is used to remove stones from the bile duct in selected cases.
Dietary Modification
Reducing fatty foods and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the frequency of symptoms while awaiting surgery or in those not undergoing surgery.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.