One of the problems we frequently encounter in our patients who come to our hospital's general surgery clinic is biliary diseases.

What are gallbladder diseases?

The gallbladder, which helps digestion, may not be able to perform its functions from time to time. Bile fluid breaks down fats in the small intestine into small pieces and allows them to be broken down by digestive enzymes. The organ that transmits bile to the small intestines and facilitates digestion is the gallbladder. In addition, its functions are to concentrate the bile fluid produced by the liver and increase the amount of bile acid. In gallbladder diseases, pain may radiate to the back and abdomen. It is generally more common in individuals over the age of sixty, diabetic patients, those with weight problems, those with a family history of bile problems, and those with liver problems. Common gallbladder diseases include gallbladder and biliary tract stones, gallbladder inflammation and gallbladder cancer.

Gallbladder and bile duct stones are among the most common problems of gallbladder diseases. Gallbladder stones may form due to the high amount of fat and elements such as calcium in the blood. Gallbladder stones can also progress to the bile ducts in later periods, and as a result, bile duct stones may form. Gallbladder inflammation is a condition in which stones formed in the gallbladder cause inflammation in the gallbladder. This infection is called cholecystitis. Inflammation can damage the sac walls and cause circulatory disorders. Gallbladder cancer Although chronic gallbladder inflammation and gallstones are not very common, they can cause gallbladder cancer. This condition can be prevented by early treatment of gallstones and inflammation.

What are the Symptoms of Gallbladder Diseases?

Although not every gallbladder disease shows symptoms immediately, the symptoms of gallbladder diseases are usually related to the digestive system. Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice and fever are among the symptoms. Diagnosis and Treatment of Gallbladder Diseases When diagnosing gallbladder diseases, laboratory and imaging tests are performed after listening to the patient's complaints. Ultrasound technique is used to view the gallbladder. ERCP may also be performed if it is necessary to examine the bile ducts. Since nutrition has an important place in gallbladder diseases, gallbladder diets can be applied in case of gallbladder inflammation and stones problems. This diet should be away from processed foods, free of trans fats, low in carbohydrates and sugar, and consist of fibrous foods, olive oil foods, and vegetables and fruits.

Antibiotics are used for gallbladder inflammation and various medications are used to dissolve stones. In addition, laparoscopy may be preferred for gallbladder removal among the necessary surgical operations. Surgery is definitely recommended for gallstones. After diagnosing the disease, our general surgeon will contact our infection specialist when necessary and help you by determining the most appropriate treatment method.