Gallbladder & Biliary Tract Diseases

The gallbladder and biliary tract are a dynamic system that allows the bile produced by the liver to be stored and transmitted to the duodenum during digestion. Right upper quadrant pain starting especially after consuming fatty foods, pain radiating to the back, and stubborn indigestion complaints usually indicate a malfunction in the operation of this system. Although the source of the problem may seem small, it can lead to serious complications if not intervened early.

The most common problems we encounter in this region are gallstones, sludge, and polyps. Although a gallstone does not always require surgical intervention, an expert clinical follow-up is mandatory due to the risk of the stone falling into the bile duct, causing gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) or pancreas inflammation (pancreatitis). Based on their size and structure, some polyps carry the risk of turning into malignant tumors over time.

Detailed evaluation of the biliary tract is not always easy. Although classical ultrasonography shows stones in the gallbladder well, we need advanced imaging techniques such as MR Cholangiography (MRCP) or Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS) to detect stones falling into the main bile duct or biliary tract strictures. The examination performed with EUS ensures the clear detection of even millimetric stones, rescuing the patient from uncertainty.

The basic interventional procedure we apply in urgent clinical pictures such as a stone falling into the main bile duct (choledocholithiasis) or obstructive jaundice caused by biliary tract tumors is ERCP. Thanks to this advanced technical and sensitive endoscopic procedure performed orally, stones in the biliary tract are removed non-surgically without the need for any surgical incision, and blocked tracts are reopened by inserting a stent.

The main purpose in our treatment protocol is; analyzing the biliary system anatomy, physiology, and possible complications in the light of the patient's individual characteristics. We shape the decision to direct our patients to surgery or the choice to treat endoscopically with current international guidelines and years of experience. We are here for you to regain your health by putting your comfort and safety at the center.