Gallbladder Conditions
Treatments & Procedures
What Is the Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver, on the right side of the abdomen. Its role is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, and release it into the small intestine to help break down fats. Bile travels from the liver through the bile ducts and into the bowel as needed during digestion.
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When the normal flow of bile is disrupted, gallbladder problems can develop. These are common and, in many cases, very manageable with the right diagnosis and treatment.
Gallbladder Conditions, Symptoms and Diagnosis
Gallbladder disease covers a range of conditions that affect how the gallbladder functions. The most common cause is gallstones which form when bile contains too much cholesterol or does not empty properly.
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Common gallbladder conditions include:
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Gallstones – small stones that develop in the gallbladder. 1 in 6 people will develop gallstones in their lifetime. 80% of people will have gallstones without symptoms, while others experience pain.
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Biliary colic – episodes of abdominal pain caused by a gallstone temporarily blocking the bile ducts. This is often described as a gallbladder attack.
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Cholecystitis – inflammation of the gallbladder, which may be acute or part of chronic gallbladder disease.
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Acalculous gallbladder disease – gallbladder dysfunction without visible stones.
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Gallbladder polyps – small growths on the lining of the gallbladder, often found incidentally during investigation. Most are benign. However, if a polyp measures 10mm (1cm) or more, removal of the gallbladder is usually recommended due to the increased risk of malignancy.
Common symptoms may include:
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Pain in the upper right abdomen or central abdomen
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Severe pain that may radiate to the back or shoulder
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Nausea or vomiting
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Abdominal pain after eating, particularly fatty foods
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Other symptoms such as bloating or digestive discomfort
Less commonly, complications such as infection, jaundice, pancreatitis, or inflammation involving the common bile duct may occur. These are assessed carefully to ensure appropriate support and treatment.
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Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually straightforward. An ultrasound scan is the most common and effective first investigation for gallbladder disorders. In some cases, blood tests or further imaging may be required to assess the bile ducts, liver, pancreas, or signs of inflammation.
Occasionally, patients may require an MRI scan to better define the anatomy of the biliary tree and determine the exact location of any stones.
What Are the Treatment Options?
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Treatment depends on the type of gallbladder disease, the severity of symptoms, and how much symptoms are affecting daily life.
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Monitoring and reassurance: Gallstones without symptoms often do not require treatment and can be safely monitored.
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Surgical treatment: For people with gallstones causing repeated pain, inflammation, or complications, gallbladder removal surgery is the only effective treatment. This procedure, known as cholecystectomy, removes the gallbladder while allowing bile to continue flowing directly from the liver into the small intestine.
Gallbladder removal is a well-established treatment and is almost always performed using minimally invasive surgery, supporting faster recovery and reduced discomfort.
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We will take time to explain findings, discuss whether surgery is appropriate, and guide you through each step of the decision-making process. The focus is always on clear information, reassurance, and choosing the right option for you.
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Ready to talk things through?
If you have questions or would like to discuss your symptoms, we’re here to help. You’re welcome to call 01242 386579, email admin@thehornbygroup.com, or use the contact form to get in touch.