Gallbladder Surgery Highett (Cholecystectomy)
Gallbladder Pain
Have you ever been jolted awake by pain in the upper right of your stomach, or a tight, squeezing feeling near your ribs? This could be what’s known as a ‘gallbladder attack’, a condition that can be quite uncomfortable and may require a visit to the emergency department.
Located beneath the liver, the gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps the body digest fats. If the bile contains too much cholesterol or certain pigments, or if the gallbladder doesn’t empty completely, crystals can form over time and develop into gallstones.
Gallbladder Disease
In Australia, gallstone disease is among the leading causes for surgical procedures. Surgeons such as Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam support patients dealing with gallstones and related gallbladder conditions, including acute and chronic cholecystitis, biliary colic, gallstone pancreatitis, and occasionally, gallbladder cancer.
Through prompt diagnosis and proper treatment, patients may experience ongoing relief and lower the chances of complications developing.
With timely diagnosis and the most appropriate treatment, patients may be able to find long-term relief and avoid potentially serious complications.
Symptoms of Gallstones
In many cases, gallstones remain silent and cause no discomfort. Small stones often pass unnoticed as they don’t obstruct the bile duct or affect bile flow. However, when gallstones are larger, they can trigger symptoms, including:
- Pain in the abdomen, which may be severe
- Abdominal pain that flares up after consuming fatty foods
- Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes)
- Fever
Causes of Gallstones
A number of factors can contribute to the formation of gallstones, including:
- An excess amount of cholesterol present in the bile
- A significant drop in body weight over a short period
- Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- Blood disorders passed down through families
- Consuming foods high in fat
While some people never experience symptoms, others develop severe biliary pain (also known as biliary colic), recurrent attacks, or complications like chronic pancreatitis or an inflamed gallbladder.
In such situations, gallbladder surgery, also called a cholecystectomy, is often recommended to prevent further episodes and help patients resume their normal routine.
Gallbladder Surgery With Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam
With extensive experience in general surgery, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam has completed many gallbladder procedures throughout Highett, using modern laparoscopic techniques that aim to reduce recovery time and enhance patient results.
Laparoscopic, or keyhole, surgery is the least invasive technique for gallbladder removal. This approach requires only small incisions through which the surgeon operates, often resulting in less discomfort and quicker recovery compared to traditional procedures.
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam’s approach includes:
- Comprehensive assessment: Confirming that your initial symptoms are caused by gallstones and excluding other conditions, such as a peptic ulcer or acid reflux.
- Transparent communication: Discussing the potential risks and benefits and ensuring you understand the consent form before surgery.
- Advanced surgical care: Offering both laparoscopic cholecystectomy and, if required, open gallbladder surgery, aiming to ensure the most appropriate option for each patient.
- Recovery support: Providing assistance with pain control, wound management, and dietary adjustments (including a low-fat plan) to promote a smooth return to normal activities.
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam follows an evidence-based and patient-centred approach, prioritising safety and compassion to provide reassurance and guidance throughout treatment.
Ready to enquire about laparoscopic gallbladder surgery with a compassionate, experienced, local surgeon?
Your Gallbladder Surgery Highett Questions Answered
What are gallstones made of?
Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, made up of cholesterol, pigments, or a mix of both. Cholesterol stones are the most common, forming when bile contains excess cholesterol; pigment stones result from too much bilirubin, often due to genetic blood conditions; and mixed stones combine cholesterol and salts. They can be as small as sand grains or several centimetres in size.
How many people have gallbladder diseases?
Because many people with gallstones don’t experience any symptoms, it’s difficult to know the exact figures. Still, estimates suggest around 15% of Australians over the age of 50 are affected.
What are the risks of gallbladder surgery?
As with any operation, there are possible risks to consider. Though uncommon, complications may involve infection, bleeding, bile duct injury, blood clots, or slight bruising and oozing near the incision area. Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam will outline these risks with you before proceeding.
What happens after my gallbladder is removed?
After gallbladder removal, patients typically go home within a day. Some may have mild diarrhoea or softer stools while the body adjusts to the constant bile flow, though this tends to settle. A low-fat diet is encouraged early on, with a gradual transition back to normal meals.
What is a bile duct, and what is its role in the gallbladder?
The bile duct carries bile from both the liver and gallbladder into the small intestine, assisting in the digestion of fats. The main duct, called the common bile duct, collects bile from smaller ducts before it reaches the intestine. Surgeons carefully examine these ducts during gallbladder surgery to confirm they’re clear of stones that could cause pain or infection.
Do I need a gallbladder if it's causing issues?
The gallbladder’s main role is to store bile, but it isn’t necessary for normal digestion. After removal, bile flows continuously into the small intestine. Most people adapt well without lasting dietary problems, though a lower-fat diet can ease recovery. Some may notice temporary loose stools, especially after caffeine or fatty foods, but these symptoms generally fade over time.
Despite these potential side effects, it’s best not to avoid treatment. For anyone with gallstones or related gallbladder conditions, laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is usually the most suitable option to avoid ongoing or serious complications.
What areas do you service?
Holmesglen Private Hospital is easily accessible to patients in:
Why Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam?
Experience in Minimally Invasive Laparoscopic Surgery
Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam uses advanced laparoscopic techniques to help patients experience reduced pain and a quicker return to normal activities after surgery.
Comprehensive, Local Care
With every stage of your care, from diagnosis to recovery, managed locally, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam delivers comprehensive support and clear guidance throughout the process.
Patient-Centred Approach
Drawing on more than 15 years of surgical experience, Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam supports patients dealing with gallbladder and bile duct conditions.
Our Location near Highett
Aiming to Help You Sleep Through the Night Without Pain
For those experiencing gallstones, biliary colic, or repeated abdominal pain, relief could be within reach. Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery often provides a way to avoid future problems and enjoy daily life without persistent pain.
Schedule a consultation with Dr Roshan Ariyaratnam to review your symptoms and better understand your treatment options, including laparoscopic gallbladder surgery. From urgent gallbladder inflammation to ongoing gallbladder disease, he will work with you to create a treatment plan suited to you.