Gall Bladder Stones

[SahndraLynne 3]

So I only have a couple more weeks before my surgery and I have Gall stones large ones. I haven't had a flare up for 3 years, however I am told that the chance of GB problems after surgery is high. My doctor said he will not perform a gall bladder removal during the weight loss surgery because of the chance of bile getting onto the stomach, and stated that I might get lucky and not have a problem. Anyone here have gallstones prior to surgery? and how were they after? Thank you in advance!

[BitterSweet* 835]

If you have gall stones, you have a diseased gall bladder that needs to be removed. Stones like to travel and can become trapped in the common bile duct, causing a serious medical emergency.

It's too bad you're surgeon won't remove it while the sleeve is done; it's a very common practice to remove it during surgery and repair any hernias. Kind of perplexed why he or she won't do it.

You're most likely looking at a second operation after the sleeve to get it removed - and that sucks. =(

[SahndraLynne 3]

I thought it was too. I don't understand why he won't just do them together if it is common. The thought of a second surgery gives me anxiety

[BitterSweet* 835]

Yes, I can definitely understand your angst. Even with the reason he stated, if that were to happen during removal of your gall bladder, that area could be irrigated and suctioned - sort of like rinsing the bile spillage off.

[Kindle 8,667]

30% of WLS patients develop gallstones after surgery. (I've had two attacks postop and never had problems before surgery). So the fact you already have them definitely makes you a high risk candidate for needing your gall bladder removed. It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when. Some surgeons will even remove it during WLS even with no previous problems just as a preventative. Can't believe your surgeon won't do it. Not sure what yo tell you to do besides find another surgeon.

[Miss Mac 6,262]

Don't go too long without addressing gallbladder removal. Mine burst when was 21, and the gallstones went everywhere. The doctor said he had to go fishing around to get them all. I also was at risk for widespread internal infection. I was in the hospital eleven days. If you do not want to switch surgeons right now, then plan your surgery about two months out after you have some strength to keep you going. The surgeons do not cut you half into like they did back then, It is done laparascopically. I am telling you from experience that if your gallbladder goes into spasms, you need to do something about it with a sense of urgency. It's too bad that you surgeon won't do it.

[simply_Me 61]

I also had gallstones my docter is taking out my gallbladder doing my surgery which I'm kinda glad he is. I wouldn't won't that pain to come back wouldn't wish that on my worst enemy.

[OhSoNique 84]

I had my gallbladder removed about 6 years ago the laser way so hoping they can use the same spots for the sleeve so less scars. Reading peoples responses about after WLS reminds me of that surgery. It wasn't too bad. Best of luck! Hopefully the dr changes his mind and does it together