Dr Öncel Yakar’s comments

Gallstones are mostly detected on abdominal ultrasonography. It can be seen in diagnostic imaging in patients with complaints regarding the upper gastrointestinal tract, or if there is any pathology in the gallbladder on ultrasound requested for check-up or other clinical reasons (for example, kidney stones). In order for the ultrasound technology, which is based on sending sound waves with a transmitter and converting the returning wavelength into an image, to detect stones in the gallbladder, the gallbladder must be distended with at least 6 hours of fasting. Tests on satiety can be misleading. In addition to the most commonly used ultrasound in the diagnosis of cholelithiasis, it is possible to diagnose with MRCP, a special type of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or with Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS) and Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), which are more invasive methods.

The gallbladder, which has the task of storing and concentrating some of the bile produced by the liver which is required for fat digestion, is a sac-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Gallstones, which are formed by the imbalance of the chemical composition in the bile, are extremely common. It is reported to be found in approximately one out of every 10 people. Although the incidence is high, it does not always cause symptoms. Gallstones that do not cause complaints do not need to be treated. Gallbladder surgery is required only in case of symptoms or if the physician decides for a surgical procedure for other reasons. Successful results are obtained with laparoscopic cholecystectomy, that is, the method of removing the gallbladder with a minimally invasive method.

With more than 25 years of experience in the surgical treatment of liver-biliary tract-pancreatic diseases and laparoscopic cholecystectomy, in addition to liver transplantation, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Didem Öncel Yakar answers your questions.

With the experience of working in this field for many years and performing many surgeries, we are by your side for diagnosis, selection of appropriate treatment and management of surgical processes in our private practice in Ataşehir. May health be with us in every moment of our lives.