Eskişehir Private Ümit Batıkent Hospital General Surgery Specialist, Op. Dr. Ersoy Esen, provided information about gallstones and surgical operations related to them. He shared details about the symptoms of gallstone disease, stating: “Patients mostly complain of indigestion and bloating. After eating, the stomach swells, food cannot be digested, and pain occurs in the abdomen and back. In more severe cases, fever and vomiting may occur due to inflammation.” He emphasized that the best way to diagnose the problem is through abdominal ultrasound. Once diagnosed, Op. Dr. Esen noted that if there is no need for surgery, closed surgical treatment is applied. The patient typically stays in the hospital for one night and is discharged if there are no complications.

WHO IS MORE AFFECTED?

Op. Dr. Esen explained that factors such as gender and age play a significant role in the formation of gallstones. "Gallstones, which are now seen in society starting from the 20s, are more common in women and those over the age of 40." He also mentioned that lifestyle factors contribute to the formation of gallstones, saying: “Obesity, genetic predisposition, high-calorie nutrition, and a sedentary lifestyle are all contributing factors to the formation of gallstones.”

Operation and Recovery

Op. Dr. Esen discussed how gallstones can range from the size of a grain of sand to stones large enough to completely fill the gallbladder. He explained: "These stones can cause inflammation in the gallbladder and may also block the bile duct, leading to acute pancreatitis, a very dangerous condition." He further noted that in addition to jaundice caused by the obstruction of the biliary tract, surgery is often recommended for patients with gallstones. “If there is no obstacle to the operation, we recommend surgery because the gallbladder is an organ that can easily be removed without affecting the digestion process, as bile from the liver is sufficient for digestion,” he said.