tomography ( CT ) scans or more comprehensive magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI ) examinations .
�Besides imaging tests , blood tests can also be performed unless the bile duct is not obstructed , it becomes challenging to identify any abnormalities in the blood especially Liver �unction Test ( L�T ). �
Gallbladder Removal Surgery for a Permanent Solution to Gallstones The presence of symptomatic gallstones signifies an issue with the gallbladder and therefore gallbladder surgery is necessary to eliminate the gallstones from the gallbladder .
Despite various remedies circulating online , such as consuming apple cider vinegar or green apples , Dr �elan believes that these remedies are ineffective as the gallstones tend to reoccur over time . And it only provides temporary relief .
All Symptomatic Patients Require Surgery Not all patients with gallstones require surgery . �A small portion of patients with gallstones who experience symptoms will require surgery . ��or those who are asymptomatic would only require regular ultrasound scans to monitor the growth of the stones , � stressed Dr �elan .
Gold Standard : Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for treating gallstones .
The surgery typically lasts for about 45 minutes to one hour . Throughout the procedure , the surgeon utilises small incisions to insert a miniature camera and surgical instruments , enabling them to observe the abdomen and remove the gallbladder .
�allbladder removal surgery is a safe procedure with a minimal risk of complications . While there are potential minor risks such as bleeding , infection , bile duct injury , or postprandial diarrhoea , the chances of experiencing these complications are exceedingly low when performed by an experienced surgeon .
Gallstones as a Risk Factor for Gallbladder Cancer Dr �elan cautioned about the association between gallstones and an increased risk of gallbladder cancer especially if the gallstone is more than two centimeters .
�When the si�e of the stone reaches approximately two to three centimeters , chronic inflammation can lead to the malignant transformation of the gallbladder mucosa . �
Larger Stones and Older Age Increase the Risk of Malignant Transformation The probability of developing gallbladder cancer increases with larger stones and older age , particularly after reaching the age of 50 .
However , Dr �elan emphasised that only a very small portion of patients with gallstones disease will develop cancer . �enerally , symptoms of cancer transformation
Dr Thamarai Velan
include more frequent upper abdominal pain , discomfort , and weight loss .
To determine if cancer cells have spread to nearby organs such as the pancreas , bile duct , or lymph nodes , doctors employ diagnostic tools like computed tomography ( CT ) scans , endoscopic ultrasound ( ��S ), and other examinations . The treatment options depend on the stage of gallbladder cancer . In cases of earlystage cancer , gallbladder removal alone is usually sufficient . In advanced stages , a radical gallbladder operation may be required , involving the resection of adjacent parts of the liver .
However , for cases deemed not suitable for operation , palliative care is provided , often involving biliary stenting to alleviate pain and jaundice .
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Gallstones �While enjoying life , it is crucial to practice moderation . Limit the consumption of excessive high-fat and greasy foods , engage in regular physical activity , maintain a consistent sleep routine , stay adequately hydrated , and undergo regular physical check-ups . � He advised not to rely solely on blood tests and stressed the importance of undergoing ultrasound scans at regular interval .
�n follow up ultrasound , if there is an increase in si�e or the onset of symptoms , immediate medical advice should be sought for appropriate treatment .
To mitigate the risk of developing gallbladder cancer , he advised individuals above the age of 40 to undergo regular ultrasound scans . If polyps are detected and the si�e is more than one centimeter , it is advisable to undergo surgical removal as they pose as a risk factor for gallbladder cancer .
“ When the size of the stone reaches approximately two to three centimeters , chronic inflammation can lead to the malignant transformation of the gallbladder mucosa .”
GlobalHealthAsiaPacific . com ISSUE 4 | 2023
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