Gallbladder Surgery Specialist

Why would I need gallbladder surgery?

Your gallbladder is a small organ in your upper abdomen that collects and stores bile, a liquid substance that helps break down food in your small intestine. You may be a candidate for gallbladder surgery if you have gallbladder disease or gallstones that aren’t treatable with other types of therapy.

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluids that form in your gallbladder. These stones can lead to a blockage in your gallbladder or your bile duct, the structure that connects your gallbladder to your intestines.

There are numerous risk factors for gallstones, such as being a woman over 40 and eating a high-fat, low-fiber diet. You may also be at a higher risk for the condition if you’re overweight or sedentary.

What are the symptoms of gallstones and other gallbladder problems?

If you have gallstones, you’ll likely experience a sharp pain in your center or upper right abdomen. 

Other common symptoms of gallstones and other gallbladder conditions include:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
  
  

If you develop a fever, chills, and jaundice, a condition that describes a yellowing of your eyes and skin, you may have gallbladder complications that require immediate medical care.

It’s important that you get a diagnostic evaluation without delay to confirm or rule out gallstones and other conditions to prevent the issue from worsening.

How are gallbladder problems treated?

A common method for treating chronic gallbladder issues, including gallstones, is the removal of your gallbladder in a procedure called a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. You may find some relief of gallstones and gallbladder dysfunction by changing your diet and limiting your fat intake, but the condition often continues for many people unless they have surgery.

Dr. Belizon uses robotic surgical techniques that are minimally invasive and require only small incisions (less than an inch long) to complete the procedure. He uses specialized tools attached to robotic arms to remove your gallbladder and controls the tools with wristed instruments at a computer console.

This type of surgery is beneficial because it reduces your risk for postsurgical complications, including infections and scarring. You can expect to recover faster after minimally invasive surgery than you might with traditional open surgery.

Following the removal of your gallbladder, Dr. Belizon works closely with you on a healthy diet plan and can recommend when it’s safe to return to your usual activities and strenuous exercise.

If you have chronic symptoms of gallstones or other gallbladder conditions, schedule a consultation online or call Boca Care Surgical Associates of Palm Beach County today.