Why is Gallbladder Surgery So Common?

It's easy to take our digestion — and the organs that aid it — for granted until there is a problem. Gallstones and the often necessary removal of the gallbladder is one example. Fortunately, minimally invasive surgical methods can provide multiple benefits.

Through his work in private practice in Santa Monica, California, and clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute, Dr. Trevan Fischer stays current on cutting-edge research and surgical techniques. 

Whether you have been diagnosed with cancer or another health issue that needs surgery, such as a gallbladder or appendix removal, he can perform a variety of procedures.

Gallbladder

The gallbladder is an organ similar in size and shape to a pear. It is located in the upper right region of the abdomen under the liver. Its main function is to store bile produced by the liver to help digest fat in the small intestine. The gallbladder also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients.

Common problems

Several things can go wrong with the gallbladder. One common problem is gallstones.

Gallstones occur when the usually liquid bile forms hardened deposits ranging in size from a spec of sand to a golf ball. Symptoms can include abdominal pain over several hours, nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, jaundice, dark urine, or pale stools. Some people don't experience any symptoms at all.

Gallstones can block the duct and prevent bile from leaving the organ. This can result in a buildup of bile that causes swelling, inflammation, infection, and tissue damage. Gallstones can also affect the pancreas and cause acute pancreatitis.

Other conditions that can strike the gallbladder are congenital disabilities, tumors, growths of tissue, abscesses, and more.

Diagnosis

Several tests can be used to diagnose gallbladder problems, including blood tests of the liver, ultrasound, CT scans, or a special type of MRI. 

Surgical treatment

Surgical removal of the gallbladder is a common procedure. Unfortunately, conservative treatments like changing your diet don't work, and gallstones return. Surgery relieves pain and prevents future gallstones.

In addition, the gallbladder isn't critical for healthy digestion, and people can live a normal life without this organ. The liver still creates bile, but instead of being stored in the gallbladder, it continuously drips into the digestive system.

In many cases, minimally invasive surgery can be employed for gallbladder removal. This method is preferable because the incisions are smaller, there is less damage to surrounding tissue, and there is less blood loss overall. The risk of infection is reduced, and healing typically occurs faster.

If you’ve been diagnosed with gallstones or another gallbladder condition that requires surgery, Dr. Trevan Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688.