What are Gall Stones?

Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. These stones can vary in size and composition, ranging from tiny pebbles to larger, solid masses. Gallstones typically consist of cholesterol, bilirubin (breakdown of red blood cells), and calcium salts.

Causes of Gallstones?

Several factors contribute to the formation of gallstones, including:

1. Excess Cholesterol: When the bile produced by the liver contains too much cholesterol, it can lead to the formation of cholesterol stones.
2. Bile Imbalance: Imbalances in the bile composition, such as high levels of bilirubin or insufficient bile salts, can promote stone formation.
3. Gallbladder Dysfunction: Conditions that impair the gallbladder's ability to empty properly, such as obesity, rapid weight loss, or certain medications, can increase the risk of gallstone formation.
4. Genetic Predisposition: A family history of gallstones or certain genetic conditions can also increase the likelihood of developing gallstones.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones may not always cause symptoms, especially if they remain small and do not obstruct the bile ducts. However, when gallstones become lodged in the bile ducts or cause inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), they can lead to the following symptoms:

• Abdominal Pain: Sharp or cramp-like pain in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the back or shoulder blades.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gallstone-related pain may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, especially after consuming fatty or greasy foods.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to obstruction of the bile ducts by gallstones.
• Fever: Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) can cause fever and chills.

Treatment Options for Gallstones

The treatment approach for gallstones depends on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. Treatment options may include:

• Watchful Waiting: Asymptomatic gallstones may not require treatment, but regular monitoring is essential to detect any changes or complications.
• Surgery

Surgical Approach

Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is often recommended for symptomatic gallstones or those causing complications such as cholecystitis or pancreatitis. Dr Golani specialises in performing minimally invasive technique of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several advantages, including smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to open surgery. Read more about gallbladder surgery here.

Quality of Life

Gallstones are a common and often painful condition affecting the gallbladder. While not all gallstones cause symptoms, those that do can lead to significant discomfort and complications if left untreated.

If you suspect you may have gall stones or have been diagnosed with them, Dr Golani will discuss the options with you in your consultation to determine the optimal treatment plan.

Your Consultation

Dr. Golani will provide further discussion regarding the specifics of your diagnosis during your consultation. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select the hospital for your procedure and potentially set the date for your procedure.

The best surgical hospitals are available for your surgery:

• Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga - Sydney
• The Mater Hospital, North Sydney - Sydney
• Norwest Private Hospital, Bella Vista - Sydney
• Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Hornsby - Sydney

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney:

• Hornsby,
• North Sydney and
• Bella Vista

Please note that a GP referral will be required prior to your consultation.

Contact Us

To make an initial consultation booking, please contact our office on 02 8599 9819.

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Hornsby Clinic Address:

Madison Building
Suite 7, 25-29 Hunter St,
Hornsby NSW 2077
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Horsnby clinic is located conviniently next to Hornsby Westfield & Hornsby Station
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Mater Clinic Address:

Suite 13, Level 1 Mater Clinic
Mater Hospital
25 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Mater clinic is located within Mater Hospital. Parking and Entry (convenient Pickup and Drop Zone) is via 5 Gillies St, Wollstonecraft.
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Norwest Clinic Address:

Suite 301C, Level 3
Q Central Building
10 Norbrik Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Norwest - Bella Vista clinic is located within Q Central Building - opposite Norwest Private Hospital. Free Limited Parking is available within the Q Central Building. There is a drop off zone outside of the building. Paid parking is available opposite at Norwest Private Hospital. Additionally there is parking at Woolworths Norwest Circa (5 minutes walk from the Clinic)
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What do I bring to my appointment?

• Referral letter
• X-Rays/Scans
• Test results relating to referral
• Health fund card
• Medicare card