What Are Gallstones?
Solid deposits of cholesterol or pigment in the gallbladder.
Why Do I Need Treatment?
You may have biliary colic, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or cholangitis.
How Should I Prepare?
- Imaging: Abdominal ultrasound; fasting not required.
- Lab Tests: LFTs, pancreatic enzymes if pancreatitis suspected.
What Happens During Treatment?
- Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Standard removal of gallbladder.
- ERCP: Stone extraction if common-duct stones present.
- Medical: Ursodeoxycholic acid for nonsurgical candidates.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Hospital stay 1–2 days for laparoscopy; same day for ERCP.
- Resume diet as tolerated.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Bile-duct injury (<1%)
- Infection or bleeding (1–2%)
Follow-Up
- ERCP stent removal if placed.
- Routine postoperative visit in 2–4 weeks.
