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Gallbladder Diseases

Summary

Gallbladder disease includes conditions such as gallstones and cholecystitis, which can lead to significant abdominal pain and digestive issues. Surgical intervention, particularly cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), is often necessary for symptomatic relief and to prevent complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the effective management of these conditions.

Associate Professor Apostolou would usually perform this in a laparoscopic “keyhole” manner or robotically to enhance recovery and support a quicker return to full activity.

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Introduction

Gallbladder disease is a common medical issue that affects many individuals, often resulting in severe discomfort and potential health risks. The gallbladder plays a vital role in digestion by storing bile produced by the liver, which is essential for the breakdown of fats. When gallstones form or inflammation occurs, they can obstruct the flow of bile, leading to symptoms such as intense abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder. The triggering event is usually a gallstone becoming lodged in the outlet of the gallbladder, which causes a chemical change in the bile and an inflammatory response. This inflammation may subsequently lead to a secondary bacterial infection. Symptoms of cholecystitis are similar to biliary colic but tend not to improve over time. These patients may initially get better with antibiotics, but ultimately will require surgery to remove their inflamed gallbladder.

Acalculous Gallbladder Disease

It is an inflammatory disease of the gallbladder that presents with symptoms similar to gallstones, but when examined, provides no evidence of gallstones. It results from a reduced blood supply or the inability of the gallbladder to empty bile.

Gangrenous Gallbladder

Destruction of the tissue in the gallbladder due to inadequate blood supply can lead to a gangrenous gallbladder. Inflammation of the gallbladder caused by a blockage of bile due to gallstones can also result in a gangrenous gallbladder, often associated with diabetes.

Gallbladder Polyps

It is the growth of tissue that protrudes from the lining of the gallbladder. These polyps, when larger than 10 mm in diameter, are more likely to become cancerous if left untreated.

Tumours

Tumours of the Gallbladder

Benign or malignant tumours may be found in the gallbladder.

Benign tumours include:

  • Fibromas

  • Lipomas

  • Haemangiomas

Common malignant tumours include:

  • Adenocarcinoma

  • Cholangiocarcinoma

Gallstones

Gallstones are small stones made up of cholesterol or bilirubin (a pigment of the bile) that can form in the gallbladder.

People who have gallstones may experience:

  • Nausea

  • Vomiting

  • Pain in the abdomen, back, or just below the right shoulder

Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. It may be performed:

  • Laparoscopically

  • Robotic cholecystectomy – a newer technique which may allow faster recovery; Prof. Apostolou will discuss this with you if appropriate

An intraoperative cholangiogram is often performed to detect stones in the biliary system.

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  • Sydney Adventist Hospital
    Suite 220, Level 2, Clark Tower
    185 Fox Valley Road
    Wahroonga NSW 2076

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    Suite 16 Level 7
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    Frenchs Forest NSW 2086

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