Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I want an opinion regarding surgery for acalculous biliary dyskinesia. I have had RUQ pain and colic attacks for the past three or four years. Ultrasounds at the time showed no symptoms. Then I had a HIDA scan that showed 12% ejection fraction, so the doctor suggested surgery to remove the gallbladder, even without stones or anything. I declined. I modified my diet. The attacks became more sporadic, but last month I had an acute acalculous cholecystitis event.
An ultrasound showed some sludge and 3 mm wall thickening. Again, surgery was suggested and scheduled. But symptoms resolved within a week, and I am completely asymptomatic now. I am really scared of having unnecessary surgery if I have no stones. What is the worst that can happen if I decline surgery? I am afraid of having ongoing new indigestion symptoms post-surgery. I do not want new problems. I am really afraid.
Kindly advise.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
Since you had GB sludge with multiple attacks of biliary colic, the chances of getting a repeat attack are very high. Sludge or microlithiasis denotes a dysfunctional gall bladder. It is always better to remove a dysfunctional gall bladder as it has a high probability of stone formation. All attacks need not be mild as you had. At times, severe attacks may happen, which need emergency surgery. There can be infectious episodes too. The next severe complication happens from secondary pancreatitis.
These microlithiasis are not easily picked up on ultrasound scans. So if you see the risks of retaining the gallbladder and the advantages of surgery, the advantages outweigh the risks. I would definitely recommend a planned surgery before developing complications and ending up with an unplanned surgery and an infection.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello doctor,
I looked up biliary microlithiasis, and it may be a possible cause of post-surgery complications. What are the chances of that occurring? This is why I am so scared of surgery. In any case, I understand the importance of surgery for my case and thank you for explaining it in detail.
Kindly advise.
Hi,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Post-surgery microlithiasis is less common. It happens from sludge or stones in the bile duct. Usually, these come from the gallbladder. So if the source is out, the chances of microlithiasis are less.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Noushif. M
Medically reviewed byDr. Vinodhini J.
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Related Questions
As I have gallstones, is it mandatory to undergo cholecystectomy before planning pregnancy?
What action needs to be taken for silent and non-movable gallstones?
I had two gummy vitamins a day before gallbladder surgery. Please help.
Gallstones - All You Need to Know
What is the cause for cough after gallbladder surgery?
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.