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Overview of Gallbladder Stones
Gallbladder stones, or gallstones, are crystalline concretions formed within the gallbladder by accretion of bile components. These stones can vary in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball and are primarily composed of cholesterol, bilirubin, or a mix of both. The exact cause of gallstone formation is not fully understood, but risk factors include obesity, rapid weight loss, a diet high in fat and cholesterol, diabetes, and certain genetic predispositions. Gallstones can remain asymptomatic, but when they obstruct the bile ducts, they can cause severe pain known as biliary colic, typically felt in the upper right abdomen. Complications from gallstones include cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and cholangitis (infection of the bile ducts). Diagnosis is commonly achieved through ultrasound imaging, which can reveal the presence of stones, and other imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs. Treatment options vary depending on the severity and symptoms; they range from conservative management with dietary changes and medications to surgical interventions, the most common being cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Non-surgical treatments like lithotripsy or bile acid pills to dissolve stones are less commonly used. Preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity. Gallstones are a prevalent condition, especially among women and older adults, often necessitating medical attention to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
About the Speaker
Dr. Prasad Neelam
Managing Director, Surgical Gastroenterology, Sravani Hospitals, Hyderabad
Dr. Prasad Neelam is a distinguished Surgical Gastroenterologist and Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Surgeon, currently serving as the Managing Director at Sravani Hospitals in Hyderabad. With an extensive medical background that includes an MBBS from NTR University of Health Sciences and an MS in General Surgery from Andhra Medical College, Dr. Neelam further specialized with an M.Ch in Surgical Gastroenterology from Osmania Medical College. His professional journey encompasses over a decade of dedicated service, including significant tenures at Osmania Medical College and Prathima Hospitals, where he honed his skills in advanced gastrointestinal surgery, minimally invasive surgical oncology, and liver transplantation. Renowned for his expertise in both living and deceased donor liver transplants, Dr. Neelam combines clinical research prowess with a commitment to innovative surgical practices, making him a pivotal figure in his field. His contributions to multi-specialty excellence at Sravani Hospitals underscore his dedication to enhancing patient care and surgical outcomes.
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