COMMON DIGESTIVE CONDITION
Gallbladder Stones
Hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form inside the gallbladder — often causing severe upper abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion, and complications if not treated promptly.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Gallbladder Stones
Gallbladder stones, also known as gallstones, are small, hardened deposits that form inside the gallbladder — a small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. Stones are mainly of two types: cholesterol stones (most common) and pigment stones. They are more common in adults over 30, women, those with obesity, diabetes, or rapid weight loss, and people with a family history of gallstone disease. While many gallstones remain silent, others cause classic symptoms such as severe upper-right abdominal pain (biliary colic), nausea, vomiting, indigestion and intolerance to fatty foods. Untreated stones can lead to gallbladder inflammation, bile duct obstruction or pancreatitis. Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs advanced laparoscopic cholecystectomy and bile duct procedures at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Excess cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile
- Incomplete or infrequent emptying of the gallbladder
- Obesity, rapid weight loss or prolonged fasting
- Diabetes and insulin resistance
- Family history of gallstone disease
- Female hormones, pregnancy and use of oral contraceptives
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Silent stones — observation. Symptomatic stones — surgery.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, ERCP with Stone Extraction, LCBDE, Open Cholecystectomy.
Keyhole surgery with 3–4 small cuts, minimal pain and quick discharge.
Most patients are discharged in 24 hours and resume routine work within a week.
Life continues normally without the gallbladder, with mild dietary adjustments.
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad.
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Keyhole Gallbladder Surgery)
Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs laparoscopic cholecystectomy as the gold-standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder stones. The entire gallbladder is removed through 3–4 small incisions using advanced laparoscopic instruments, ensuring minimal pain, very small scars, a short hospital stay, and a quick return to normal life.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Tejasree reviews symptoms and uses ultrasound — and if needed, MRCP — to confirm gallstones, assess complications and check the bile duct.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Based on the size, number of stones and any bile duct involvement, the most suitable approach is planned — laparoscopic cholecystectomy, ERCP, or combined treatment.
- 3
Procedure
Keyhole surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, usually completed within 45–60 minutes, with the entire gallbladder safely removed.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients are discharged within 24 hours, return to office work within 5–7 days, and follow up to confirm healing and dietary advice.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Gold-standard keyhole surgery to remove the gallbladder through small incisions — minimal pain, quick discharge, excellent outcomes.
ERCP with Stone Extraction / Stenting
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography is used to remove stones lodged in the bile duct, often before laparoscopic surgery.
Open Cholecystectomy
Conventional open surgery to remove the gallbladder — reserved for very complex cases, severe inflammation or specific situations.
Laparoscopic Common Bile Duct Exploration (LCBDE)
Keyhole technique to remove stones directly from the common bile duct — used when ERCP is not suitable or has failed.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.