Gallstone Disease Treatment in Singapore – Causes, Symptoms & Surgery Options
What is Gallstone Disease (Cholelithiasis)?
Gallstone disease, medically known as cholelithiasis, is a common digestive condition in Singapore. Gallstones are hard, pebble-like deposits formed from concentrated bile substances such as cholesterol and bilirubin. These stones develop in the gallbladder and range in size from tiny grains to golf ball-sized masses.
While most people with gallstones remain asymptomatic, some experience significant discomfort when the stones obstruct the bile ducts or gallbladder. This can lead to various complications that require medical attention.
Common Symptoms of Gallstones
About 80% of individuals with gallstones show no symptoms. However, the remaining 20% may experience symptoms based on the stone’s location and movement. Common signs include:
- Upper abdominal pain (especially after meals)
- Fever (indicative of infection)
- Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)
- Low blood pressure (in severe infections)
Gallstone-Related Conditions We Treat
Gallstones can cause a range of gallbladder and bile duct problems, each with specific symptoms and severity:
1. Biliary Colic
- Intermittent abdominal pain in the upper right abdomen
- Pain typically occurs after eating
- Caused by gallstones temporarily blocking the gallbladder neck
2. Acute Cholecystitis
- Inflammation of the gallbladder
- Persistent upper right abdominal pain with fever
- Often caused by gallstones tightly lodged at the gallbladder neck
3. Perforated Cholecystitis
- Severe, advanced inflammation leading to gallbladder rupture
- Considered a surgical emergency
4. Acute Cholangitis & Mirizzi Syndrome
- Inflammation and infection of the bile duct
- Pain, fever, jaundice, and chills
- Occurs when stones block the bile duct – urgent treatment required
5. Gallstone Pancreatitis
- Inflammation of the pancreas due to gallstones
- Central abdominal pain with possible cholangitis symptoms
- Occurs when stones obstruct both pancreatic and bile ducts
Who is at Risk of Developing Gallstones?
Gallstones can form when the chemical balance of bile is disrupted. You may be at increased risk if you:
- Are female (especially during pregnancy, hormone therapy, or while taking birth control pills)
- Are over the age of 40
- Are overweight or obese
- Have a family history of gallstones
- Experience rapid weight loss or follow a very low-calorie diet
- Have diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or insulin resistance
- Have liver disease such as cirrhosis
- Have blood disorders such as thalassemia or sickle cell anemia
- Eat a high-fat, high-cholesterol, or low-fiber diet
- Are of certain ethnic backgrounds (e.g., Native American or Southeast Asian)
Diagnostic Tests for Gallstone Disease
Before determining treatment, several diagnostic evaluations are performed:
Blood Tests:
- Full Blood Count (FBC): Checks for infection or inflammation
- Liver Function Test (LFT): Detects bile duct obstruction
- Amylase/Lipase: Confirms pancreatic inflammation
Imaging & Scans:
- Ultrasound of the abdomen
- CT or MRI scan for more complex cases
Endoscopic Evaluation:
- ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): To locate and remove bile duct stones
Gallstone Treatment Options in Singapore
Not all gallstones require treatment. If you have gallstones without symptoms, monitoring may be all that’s needed. However, if symptoms arise or complications occur, prompt treatment is advised.
Surgical Treatment: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
The standard and most effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones is laparoscopic cholecystectomy – a minimally invasive surgery to remove the gallbladder.
- Also known as keyhole surgery
- Performed under general anesthesia
- Takes 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Most patients are discharged within 24 hours
- Quick recovery: return to normal activities within a few days
Additional Treatments (based on severity):
- Intravenous antibiotics (for infections)
- Gallbladder drainage (if surgery is delayed)
- ERCP (for stones in bile ducts)
Why Choose Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal?
- Smaller incisions, less scarring
- Faster recovery and less pain
- Lower risk of post-op complications
Preventing Gallstones: Diet & Lifestyle Tips
While not all gallstones are preventable, you can reduce risk by:
- Eating on time and avoiding skipped meals
- Reducing fatty and fried foods
- Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Replacing red meats with fish
- Avoiding rapid weight loss
Once gallstones form, they do not dissolve naturally. Preventive care helps avoid complications but not eliminate existing stones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the early signs of gallstones? Mild upper abdominal discomfort after eating fatty meals is a common early sign. Others may develop bloating, nausea, or indigestion.
Can gallstones go away without surgery? Most gallstones do not dissolve on their own. If they are symptomatic, surgery is the standard treatment.
How long is recovery after laparoscopic gallbladder surgery? Most patients can return to normal activities within 3–5 days. Full recovery may take 1–2 weeks.
Is laparoscopic cholecystectomy safe? Yes, it is a well-established and safe procedure with a low risk of complications when performed by an experienced surgeon.
How do I know if my gallstones are serious?
Gallstones without symptoms are usually not serious and may be found incidentally. However, early warning signs include intermittent pain in the upper abdomen, bloating, nausea, or vomiting.
Gallstones become serious when pain becomes frequent, intense, or persistent. If you develop upper abdominal pain with fever, jaundice, or chills, seek medical attention immediately — this may indicate infection, gallbladder inflammation, or bile duct blockage, all of which can be life-threatening if untreated.
When should I see a doctor for gallstones?
You should see a doctor if you experience symptoms like abdominal pain after meals, nausea, bloating, or any digestive discomfort that doesn’t go away. Gallstones can progress and lead to more serious conditions.
Seek immediate medical attention if you have:
- Severe or sharp upper abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- High fever with chills
These symptoms could indicate gallbladder infection or bile duct obstruction.
Do I really need surgery to remove gallstones?
Surgery is usually recommended when gallstones cause symptoms such as pain, inflammation, or infection. The standard treatment is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which removes both the gallbladder and the stones.
Not all cases require surgery, but this can only be determined through a proper consultation and diagnostic tests. Dr Lee will assess the severity and guide you on whether surgery or another treatment is necessary.
What can I expect after gallbladder removal surgery?
After laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, most patients recover quickly. You may experience mild pain at the keyhole incision sites, which is usually manageable with oral painkillers.
You may also need to make dietary changes. Avoid fatty, oily, or spicy foods in the short term, as your body adjusts to digesting without the gallbladder. Most people return to normal eating within a few weeks and can resume daily activities in 3–5 days.
Consult a Gallstone Specialist in Singapore
If you’re experiencing persistent abdominal discomfort, jaundice, or digestion issues, consult Dr Lee Lip Seng – a trusted HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) Surgeon in Singapore with extensive experience in treating gallstone disease and performing laparoscopic gallbladder removal.
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