Best Gallstones Doctors in Chennai

Gallstones, medically known as cholelithiasis, are hard, stone-like formations found within the gallbladder, a small organ nestled beneath the liver. The actual cause of gallstones is thought to be due to a chemical imbalance of bile inside of the gallbladder. The size of gallstones varies greatly, from microscopic particles to balls as large as a golf ball. Gallstones are very common and routinely asymptomatic.

Chennai residents might be experiencing a rise in digestive issues, including gallstones. This could potentially be linked to modern lifestyle changes. For gallstone treatment in Chennai, Apollo Hospitals has some of the best gallstone doctors and gallstone treatment specialists equipped with state-of-the-art facilities.

Types/Stages of Gallstones"

Gallstones can be categorised based on their composition:

• Cholesterol Stones: These stones, typically yellow-green in colour, form due to a buildup of undissolved cholesterol within the bile. They may also contain other elements.

• Pigment Stones: These are brown or black stones that develop due to an excess of bilirubin.

Symptoms of Gallstones

The symptoms of gallstones can vary from person to person. Some common indicators include:

• Pain in the upper right abdomen

• Sporadic, intense, and dull pain lasting 1-5 hours.

• Jaundice and itchy skin.

• Digestive issues like diarrhoea and loss of appetite.

Tests to Diagnose Gallstones

To diagnose gallstones, several tests might be recommended by specialists for gallstones treatment at Apollo Hospitals:

• Abdominal Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to produce pictures of the gallbladder and detect gallstones.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This imaging test provides detailed pictures of the gallbladder and surrounding structures.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This test provides detailed images of bile ducts to check for gallstones.

• Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP): This test generates detailed images of the bile ducts, helpful for identifying stones lodged there.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Gallstones at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai

Depending on the severity of the condition, various treatment options are available for gallstones at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai:

• Medication: It includes using the medications ursodiol and chenodiol to break up gallstones. These medications contain bile acids, which work to break up the stones.

• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A minimally invasive technique used to remove stones lodged in the bile duct. Gallstones discovered using ERCP can be removed during the procedure.

• Extracorporeal Shockwave Lithotripsy (ESWL): ESWL is a valuable option for treating certain types of gallstones, offering a less invasive approach to stone removal.