For gallstone problem, should I get my gallbladder removed?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have aches on the right side of the upper and lower abdomen as well as in the back that is below my shoulder blade. These aches have got worse over time in the past seven months. My doctor informed me that I have gallstones and that is the cause of my aches and pains. He said that I should get it removed. I hope not. Please take a quick look at my sonogram and tell me what you think of my situation. Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com. I have reviewed all the details you provided, including the attached images (which have been removed to protect patient identity). Based on the images, mild distension of the gallbladder can be observed, but the exact size of the gallstone is not clearly visible. To proceed with appropriate treatment, it would be helpful to upload the official report of the ultrasound scan. The treatment approach for gallstones depends on the size of the stone. If the size is larger than 10 mm or if there are multiple stones, it is generally recommended to consider surgery, as the size is unlikely to decrease or pass on its own, and there is an increased risk of developing acute cholecystitis. However, if the size is less than 6 mm, medical dissolution therapy can be attempted. With medical therapy, the rate of size reduction is approximately 0.5 mm per month of therapy. Regarding your blood investigations, all other parameters were within the normal range except for a slightly low hemoglobin (Hb) level. A low Hb level with high mean corpuscular volume (MCV) suggests the possibility of vitamin B12 deficiency or hypothyroidism. To provide further guidance, it would be helpful to know if you consume alcohol and if you have a non-vegetarian diet. Additionally, have you checked your thyroid profile? Please let us know so that we can assist you accordingly.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I had gone through all the images uploaded (attachment removed to protect patient identity). The most of the images uploaded shows liver and gallbladder to the extent visualized; I feel there are multiple small stones.

Multiple small stone carries risk of gallstone induced pancreatitis so it is better to get surgery done before complications arise.

The second thing is anemia (low Hb) may be because of vitamin B12 deficiency. Kindly get serum vitamin B12 levels and thyroid profile.

If vitamin B12 deficiency is found, then you need to take medication for that.