Metro Bariatrics - Amir Moazzez MD, FACS
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Fair Oaks Professional Bldg.
3620 Joseph Siewick Dr. Suite 200
Fairfax, VA 22033
703.620.3211 Phone
703.620.3215 Fax
Woodbridge Professional Bldg.
2280 Opitz Blvd. Suite 320
Woodbridge, VA 22191
703.878.7610 Phone
703.878.7614 Fax
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Gallbladder
General: The gallbladder sits underneath the right lobe of the liver. Its job is to store bile which is synthesized by the liver. As we eat a meal, the gallbladder contracts sending bile to the first part of the small bowel to dissolve and digest fats, oils, and proteins. The gallbladder connects to the larger duct of the liver via the cystic duct. This duct connects to the liver forming the larger common duct which empties into the first part of the small bowel (duodenum).
Signs & Symptoms: The majority of gallbladder pathology is due to stone formation from excess cholesterol in our diet. If a stone obstructs the flow of bile from the gallbladder to the common duct, then the patient develops pain. This pain is sharp, usually located in the upper abdomen (right), sometimes wrapping around the back, and into the right shoulder. Patients may have associated nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reflux after eating meals especially after fatty foods.
Diagnosis:
- History and Physical exam
- Labs
- liver functions
- complete blood count
- Ultrasound
- gallstones
- HIDA scan
- Nuclear medicine scan to reveal uptake and ejection function
Treatment: Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy—removal of the gallbladder using small incisions and a camera (3-4 1cm incisions). Metallic clips are placed over the cystic duct and artery. Then the gallbladder is removed entirely. At times, we need to visualize the biliary system under fluoroscopy (intra-operative cholangiogram (IOC). A small catheter is placed into the cystic duct, dye is injected into the biliary system to ensure appropriate emptying into the small bowel and to ensure there are no obstructions.
Post-op recovery: Surgery is generally an outpatient procedure and lasting about 1 hour. A detailed discharge instruction sheet with prescription for pain medication is given to the patient prior to discharge. Diet is as tolerated from liquids to regular (avoid fatty foods). Activity levels are increased and encouraged as tolerated (avoid heavy lifting). Our patients follow up with us in the office after surgery, and are encouraged to call us at any time with questions.