Gallstones.

[ne2]

After having an ultra sound scan yesterday, it showed up I have one large gallstone. I've to see my Gp next week. Im wondering if anyone know's if I'll need an op to remove the gallstone. TIA.

[jules68]

it depends on your consultant

they may remove your gallbladder or do it some other way, not quite sure what they do these days

i had my gallbladder removed 10yrs ago

poor you, i hope you are not in to much discomfort

xx

[moonshadow]

If you are not in a lot of pain the Doc will probably tell you to wait and see if it settles.Sometimes it can be years before you get another attack and lots of people live quite happily with gallstones.If you need an op the most common treatment is to surgically remove the gallbladder.If possible ask for Laparoscopic surgery it involves less pain and a shorter recovery period than the traditional open surgery and the scar is much smaller.There is Lithotripsy treatment were they use shock wave therapy,the high frequency waves break up the stones then you take salts to dissolve the fragments.If your stone is large it could take months to dissolve so you would possibly need long term treatment.Several of my family myself included have been treated for gallstones and I have seen dozens of operations at work ,everyone has to be treated as an individual and I'm sure the Doc and Surgeon will choose the best treatment for you so good luck !

[bensmum]

As the other said it depends if you are in pain. I had my gallbladder removed about 7 years ago by keyhole surgery and it was very straightforward. The recovery time is shorter but you still have to take things easy while you heal inside. If you start to have problems with the stone the pain can be excruciating but people can live with stones and not have any problems. I hope you get yours sorted before it causes any major problems.