How it may be discovered
Ultrasound and blood tests are commonly used to assess the gallbladder and bile ducts.
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Condition & cancer care
Gallstones & Gallbladder Disease
Gallstones may cause pain after meals, inflammation, infection, jaundice or pancreatitis.
When surgery may be considered
Laparoscopic gallbladder removal may be recommended for symptomatic or complicated gallstone disease.
Patient questions
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common questions about gallstones & gallbladder disease.
01Do all gallstones need surgery?
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No. Gallstones found incidentally without symptoms often do not require surgery. Surgery is generally recommended when stones cause repeated pain, inflammation, jaundice, or pancreatitis.
02What is the treatment for a painful gallbladder?
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The standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones or gallbladder inflammation is laparoscopic cholecystectomy—keyhole removal of the gallbladder.
03Is gallbladder removal a major operation?
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Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is generally a low-risk, minimally invasive procedure with a short hospital stay. Complexity can increase with inflammation, prior surgery, or unclear anatomy.
04Can I live normally without a gallbladder?
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Yes. The liver continues producing bile, which flows directly into the intestine. Most patients have no long-term dietary restrictions.
05How soon can I go back to work after gallbladder surgery?
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This varies according to recovery progress and the physical demands of the job and is discussed individually.
Multidisciplinary care
Surgery is considered as part of the complete treatment plan.
Depending on the diagnosis, care may involve medical oncology, radiation oncology, gastroenterology, radiology, pathology and other specialties.
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