How to Treat Gallbladder Disease

The objective of treatment is to reduce the incidence of gallbladder pain and to remove the gallstones with surgical procedures and/or drugs.

Things You'll Need

• Low-fat Food
• Analgesics

Instructions

1. Have extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy to shatter stones. This is a noninvasive procedure that breaks up gallstones using sound waves.

2. Undergo endoscopic retrograde sphincterotomy (ERS). This procedure opens up the soft tissues and fibers of the ducts, allowing stones to pass into the intestine.

3. Have a cholecystectomy (removal of gallbladder) for acute cholecystitis and biliary colic. Can be done through a laparoscopy (a small tube that permits the surgeon to visualize the inside of your abdomen) or through an abdominal incision.

4. Receive intravenous fluids for persistent "biliary colic." Take nothing by mouth during acute attacks.

5. Talk to your doctor about a prescription of chenodeoxycholic acid to help dissolve cholesterol gallstones. Chenodeoxycholic acid works by inhibiting secretion of cholesterol and is most effective when stones are small.

6. Get plenty of rest.

7. Use analgesics for relief of gallbladder pain. Your doctor may prescribe narcotics.

Tips & Warnings

• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the treatment of choice for symptomatic gallbladder disease. Trauma to the abdominal wall is minimal, and patients can go home the day after the procedure.

• Avoid alcohol, eggs, cream, pork, fried foods, rich dressings and gas-forming vegetables. Limit diet to low-fat foods, especially after a "gallbladder attack."

• Go to the hospital if biliary colic or persistent pain continues. Discuss this with your doctor.

• If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.