Gallstones are a fairly common health problem, but many people are unaware of the issues they can cause if left untreated. The gallbladder can get these small, hard deposits that can cause pain, digestive problems, and even dangerous infections. Fortunately, it’s now easier than ever to remove gallstones in Singapore thanks to advanced medical procedures and specialized care.
What are Gallstones
One of the digestive fluids produced and stored by the liver in the gallbladder is bile. Gallstones are complex pieces made of bile. There are many types and sizes, and some people can live with them without any issues. However, for others, they cause terrible gut pain, nausea, bloating, or problems like liver inflammation or bile duct blockage.
When symptoms appear, addressing the problem is often the best and most effective solution. This means that learning about gallstone removal in Singapore is a must for anyone who has been diagnosed.
Latest Gallstones Removal Treatments in Singapore
Singapore has some of the most advanced medical care in the world, and gallstone treatment is no different. For very mild or painless cases, medication and lifestyle changes may be recommended. However, surgery is still the best way to treat gallstones that are causing symptoms.
1. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Keyhole Surgery)
This is the method that is most often used for gallstone removal in Singapore. The gallbladder is taken out using techniques that cause as little damage as possible.
Key benefits include:
- Smaller incisions
- Less time spent recovering
- Less likely to get worse
- Less time in the hospital (often released the same or next day)
2. Open Cholecystectomy
Even though it’s not needed very often these days, open surgery is still done when there is severe swelling, scarring, or problems with the structure of the body. When this method is used, the belly is cut wider, and it usually takes longer to heal.
3. Non-Surgical Approaches
When someone isn’t strong enough for surgery, doctors may suggest:
- Oral dissolution treatment: A drug used to break up cholesterol stones. It usually takes months or years to work, and the stones often come back.
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A test that is often done with surgery when stones are found in the bile ducts.
Overall, laparoscopic surgery is still the best way for gallstone removal in Singapore, and most doctors recommend it.
Comparing Treatment Options for Gallstones
To determine the best course of therapy, doctors typically consider a patient’s vital signs, the type and size of gallstones, the severity of symptoms, and any associated risks.
Laparoscopic Surgery vs. Oral Medication
- Effectiveness: Surgery is almost always successful, but oral medicine only works some of the time and rarely cures the condition.
- Recovery Time: After laparoscopic surgery, you typically require about one to two weeks to be fully recovered. However, taking medicine for an extended period is necessary.
- Recurrence: Gallstones typically do not recur after the gallbladder is removed. Even with medication, stones often recur.
Laparoscopic vs. Open Surgery:
- How Invasive? Open surgery is more intrusive than laparoscopic surgery, which is less invasive.
- Hospital Stay: One day in the hospital instead of three to five days (on average).
- Suitability: Laparoscopic surgery is generally the best option unless there are specific problems that make it impossible.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Gallstones Removal in Singapore
Depending on various medical and practical circumstances, the costs can undergo significant variations.
1. Type of Surgery
Because they require specialized equipment, laparoscopic treatments may seem more costly upfront; however, they typically result in lower overall costs due to shorter patient stays and fewer complications.
2. Public vs. Private Healthcare
State hospitals may reduce administrative costs by processing Medicare claims and receiving cash. Private institutions often charge more but offer shorter wait times and appointments.
3. Facility and Surgeon Fees
Price changes can be caused by the hospital or surgical center chosen, as well as the knowledge and expertise of the surgical team. Facilities that have been around longer may charge more for better care.
4. Complexity of the Procedure
If there are problems like gallbladder infections or stones in the bile duct, the cost may go up because of extra treatments like ERCP or longer surgery times.
5. Post-Operative Care
The final bill increases due to additional tests, medications, and follow-up visits. Plans that cover these costs, like insurance or combined shield plans, can help.
Patients should consult their healthcare expert and request a clear breakdown of the costs they can expect.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for gallstone removal in Singapore?
Even though not all people with gallstones need surgery, there are clear signs that they may need to be removed.
The Best Options Are:
- People who have chronic abdominal pain (biliary colic)
- People who have been diagnosed with inflammation (cholecystitis)
- People who have had pancreatitis because of gallstones in the past
- People who have stones in their bile ducts
- Patients who are at risk of consequences because of other health problems
Even if the symptoms are mild or only happen sometimes, surgery may still be suggested to keep things from getting worse in the future.
Not Always a Good Idea:
- People who are at a high risk for surgery because of heart or lung problems
- People who have bleeding problems
- People who have some physical issues (may need open surgery)
A pre-surgery exam, which may include imaging and blood testing, will guide treatment.
What to Do and Not to Do Before Getting Gallstones Removed
Getting ready for the treatment well can make a big difference in how well it goes and how quickly you recover.
Dos
- Follow the fasting directions: Most of the time, no eating or drinking for 6 to 8 hours before treatment.
- Inform your doctor about all your medications: Individuals who take blood thinners may need to discontinue their use several days in advance.
- Plan for transportation and rest after surgery: Most laparoscopic treatments don’t require staying in the hospital, so make sure someone can help you get home safely.
- Get ready to take a few days off: Your body needs rest, even though you’ll be better soon. Plan your time off creatively and innovatively.
Don’ts
- Avoid eating large meals before surgery: Refrain from consuming fatty foods that can exacerbate gallbladder issues.
- Do not self-medicate: Over-the-counter painkillers might hide your symptoms or mess up the sedation.
- Don’t skip tests before surgery: These are crucial to ensure you’re healthy enough for anesthesia and to help the doctor plan a safe treatment.
- Don’t drink or smoke: Both can raise the risks of anesthesia and make it harder for wounds to heal after surgery.
Questions and Answers About Gallstone Removal in Singapore
Q: Is it safe to live without a gallbladder?
Yes. After removing the gallbladder, the body heals well. From the liver, bile will travel directly to the abdominal cavity and stomach, but some individuals may experience minor variations in their digestive process.
Q: How long does it take to get better after a gallstone removal in Singapore?
After undergoing laparoscopic surgery, most people can return to their daily lives in one to two weeks. It could take 4–6 weeks after open surgery.
Q: Can gallstones come back after surgery?
Not if the gallbladder is completely removed. However, if only the stones are removed, which doesn’t happen very often, it could happen again.
Q: Can diet help manage gallstones?
A healthy diet low in fat and high in fiber can prevent gallstones from forming, but it won’t eliminate ones that are already present.
Q: Does MediSave pay for gallstone removal in Singapore?
Yes, depending on where you get care and the type of treatment, MediSave and integrated shield plans may cover some of the cost.
Last Thoughts
Gallstones might not seem like a big deal, but they are. If you don’t treat gallstones, they can significantly impact your health and life, from giving you sudden pain to causing substantial problems. Thankfully, gallstone removal in Singapore is a straightforward process that works very well, utilizing modern techniques that prioritize safety and patient comfort.
If you think you have gallstones or have been told you do, you should talk to a reliable professional in Singapore about your treatment choices. With proper care, many patients can fully recover and return to their daily lives with minimal difficulty.
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Lee Surgery & Endoscopy – Dr Lee Chin Li
Gleneagles Medical Centre
6 Napier Road, #04-16
Singapore 2588499
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre (Orchard)
Dr Lee @ KYM Surgery 3
Mount Elizabeth, #12-01
Singapore 2288510
Farrer Park Medical Centre
Dr Lee @ KYM Surgery 1
Farrer Park Station Road, #13-05
Singapore 217562
