Best Doctors for Gallstones in Hyderabad

Types/Stages of Gallstones

The stages of gallstone development typically include the Lithogenic state (formation), Asymptomatic gallstones (silent), Symptomatic gallstones (causing discomfort), and complicated cholelithiasis (leading to significant complications). The two main types of gallstones are:

• Cholesterol Stones: These are yellow-green stones and are formed due to excess cholesterol production by the liver.

• Pigment Stones: These are brown or black stones that develop due to an inability of the gallbladder to break down excess bilirubin.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones may be asymptomatic for many individuals. However, when symptoms do arise, they include:

• Upper right abdominal pain or discomfort in the centre of the stomach.

• Jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes.

• Itchy skin

• diarrhoea or loss of appetite.

Tests to Diagnose Gallstones

For diagnosing gallstones, gallstones treatment specialists at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad utilize a comprehensive array of diagnostic tests, including:

• Ultrasonography: A common imaging technique used to visualise the gallbladder and detect gallstones.

• Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): This procedure can help identify smaller stones that may be missed on an abdominal ultrasound.

• Computed Tomography (CT): Provides detailed images of the gallbladder, aiding in gallstone detection.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gallstones at Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad

For gallstone treatment, Apollo Hospitals in Hyderabad offers a comprehensive range of options tailored to your individual needs. These include:

• Conservative Management: For asymptomatic or lithogenic state gallstones, limited interventions are recommended.

• Cholecystectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing the gallbladder to prevent further gallstone formation.

• Oral Dissolution Therapy: Ursodiol or chenodiol are oral bile acid pills that can dissolve some gallstones, especially cholesterol stones.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses shock waves to break down small gallstones, but it is not a common approach in gallstone treatment.