Gallstones

Gallstones are extremely common. They may remain asymptomatic (no symptoms) or symptoms of recurrent episodes of severe upper abdominal or chest pain often with radiation into the back may develop. Once symptoms have occurred they almost always recur at variable but decreasing intervals. Serious complications can sometimes arise.

Once symptoms have developed, surgery in the form of laparoscopic (keyhole) cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder) is indicated. This is a very commonly performed procedure that is accomplished in a 24-48 hour hospital stay and requires a full recovery time of 7-14 days.

The Wakefield Clinic introduced this form of surgery to Wellington in 1991 and continues to perform laparoscopic cholecystectomy on a regular basis.