Gallstones are hardened deposits that form from bile components such as cholesterol and bile salts. They can vary in size and number and are the most common reason for gallbladder surgery.
Causes:
Symptoms:
Some people with gallstones are asymptomatic, but others may experience:
Pain may last from minutes to several hours and often occurs in the evening or overnight.
Acute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by a gallstone blocking the cystic duct.
Symptoms:
This condition requires prompt medical attention and often surgery to prevent complications such as perforation or infection.
Gallbladder polyps are growths of tissue that protrude from the lining of the gallbladder. Most are benign, but larger polyps (especially over 1 cm) may carry a risk of cancer and require removal of the gallbladder.
Though rare, gallbladder cancer is a serious condition that may mimic other gallbladder diseases. Early detection is challenging, so surgery is often performed if cancer is suspected or confirmed during imaging or biopsy.
Common tests include:
Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal) is the definitive treatment for most symptomatic gallbladder diseases. Surgical approaches include:
This is the most common approach and involves:
Most patients are discharged on the same day or the following morning.
Occasionally required if there are complications such as infection, scar tissue from previous surgery, or cancer. This approach involves a larger incision and a longer recovery time.
Most people live a normal life without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, which flows directly into the intestine. Some individuals may experience temporary digestive changes, such as softer stools or mild bloating, especially after fatty meals. These symptoms usually settle over time.
Gallbladder surgery is a common and generally safe procedure. However, like any surgery, it carries some risks:
Our team at Sydney Surgical Associates takes every precaution to minimise risks and ensure the highest standard of care.
Gallstone disease is highly prevalent in Australia, affecting up to 25% of adults over the age of 50, with women being more commonly affected than men. The rise in obesity and metabolic syndrome has contributed to increasing rates of gallbladder-related conditions in younger populations as well.
Cholecystectomy is one of the most frequently performed abdominal operations in Australia, with over 60,000 procedures conducted annually.
At Sydney Surgical Associates, we provide:
We are committed to ensuring your safety, comfort, and full recovery, helping you return to a pain-free and active lifestyle as quickly as possible.
