Best Gallstones Doctors in Lucknow

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 yellow-green stones are formed due to excess cholesterol production by the liver.

• Pigment Stones: These brown or black stones occur due to excess bilirubin in the body.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Abdominal pain is usually felt in the upper right abdomen or centre of the stomach and often flares up after eating fatty foods.

• High temperature and rapid heartbeat are potential signs of an infection.

• Jaundice resulting from a blocked bile duct and manifesting as a yellowing of the skin and eyes.

• Itchy Skin due to blocked bile ducts.

• Loss of Appetite accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Tests to Diagnose Gallstones

Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow boasts some of the best doctors for gallstones who provide personalised care to each patient. Their diagnosis process includes:

• Blood Tests: These include a complete blood count, liver function tests, and tests for amylase and lipase.

• Ultrasonography: This is a primary diagnostic tool that captures images of the gallbladder and can detect gallstones.

• Endoscopic Ultrasonography: This is used in cases where conventional ultrasound results are inconclusive.

• CT scan or MRI: These imaging tests provide a detailed view of the gallbladder and bile ducts.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gallstones at Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow

Gallbladder stone treatment specialists offer comprehensive aftercare and guidance to help patients lead a healthy lifestyle post-treatment.

• Medication: Oral bile acid pills such as ursodiol or chenodiol are used to dissolve gallstones. However, these may take years to work.

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: This minimally invasive procedure involves removing the gallbladder through small incisions in the abdomen.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure removes gallstones in the bile duct.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-surgical treatment uses sound waves to break up small gallstones.