Gallbladder surgery is an essential treatment for individuals dealing with gallbladder diseases, such as gallstones or inflammation, that can affect their quality of life. In Singapore, advancements in minimally-invasive techniques, performed by experienced surgeons, have made gallbladder surgery a reliable and effective solution.
This guide explores everything you need to know about gallbladder surgery in Singapore, from symptoms and treatments to costs and recovery.
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats. However, issues can arise when bile flow is disrupted, often due to gallstones.
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, and these blockages can lead to intense pain. If left untreated, the implications of gallstones can progress to serious problems.
Gallstones can be symptomatic, meaning they may not cause noticeable symptoms, but when they do, they can lead to significant discomfort and pain. Common symptoms include persistent pain in the upper right abdomen, which may radiate to the back or shoulder blade, especially after eating fatty meals. This pain, known as biliary colic, can last a few minutes to several hours.
Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, and indigestion. In severe cases, gallstones can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, or fever and chills, which may indicate an infection or inflammation of the gallbladder.
Left untreated, gallstones can lead to serious complications, including:
Prompt diagnosis and treatment of gallstones are crucial to avoid these complications and protect your overall health. If you suspect gallstones, consulting a specialist is an important step toward effective management.
Gallbladder diseases are diagnosed using a combination of medical evaluations, imaging tests, and lab work:
Consult a specialist as soon as you experience symptoms or suspect gallstones. Gallstone-related pain can be debilitating and recur, disrupting your daily activities. Seeking medical advice allows you to explore treatment options or manage your condition effectively.
Gallstones and gallbladder diseases can be managed through both non-surgical and surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the condition and the symptoms experienced.
Non-surgical options are typically recommended for managing mild symptoms or for individuals who are not immediate candidates for surgery:
When symptoms are severe or problems arise, surgery is often the most effective treatment. The most common surgical method is a Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, also known as keyhole gallbladder surgery.
This minimally invasive procedure involves removing the gallbladder through small incisions, resulting in faster recovery, reduced pain, and minimal scarring. It is considered the gold standard for treating gallstones and related diseases.
Your doctor will recommend the most suitable treatment approach based on your condition and overall health.
Gallbladder surgery, or cholecystectomy, is a procedure carried out to remove the gallbladder, effectively addressing the root cause of gallstone-related problems. By removing the gallbladder, the risk of future gallstone formation and complications such as infections, blockages, and inflammation is eliminated. This makes gallbladder surgery a definitive solution for patients experiencing severe or recurring symptoms.
When it comes to gallbladder removal, the two main surgical options are open surgery and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. Each approach has its advantages and is decided based on the patient’s condition and the surgeon’s assessment.
Laparoscopic (Keyhole) Surgery
Open Surgery
Gallbladder surgery is typically recommended for individuals experiencing severe or recurring symptoms caused by gallstones or other gallbladder conditions. You may be a candidate for surgery if you have:
Additionally, individuals with asymptomatic gallstones may be considered for surgery if they have underlying health conditions (e.g. diabetes) that increase the risk of disorders or if the gallstones are unusually large, increasing the likelihood of future problems.
A specialist will assess your symptoms, overall health, and risks to determine if gallbladder surgery is the best option for you.
Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will review your medical history, perform necessary blood tests, and may request imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI to confirm the diagnosis.
Based on the Ministry of Health (MOH) fee benchmarks, the cost of gallbladder surgery in Singapore typically ranges between SGD 6,200 and SGD 9,600 (before GST). This estimate applies to the surgeon’s fees only and does not include hospital charges or consumables.
Consultation fees at our clinic begin at SGD 200 (before GST), with varying rates for after-hours appointments.
Please note that these figures are approximate, and the final cost will depend on the specific procedures performed and the complexity of the case.
As gallbladder surgery is assigned with a surgical code, you may utilise your insurance health plan or Medisave to subsidise the cost of your procedure. For detailed information please reach out to our clinic for assistance.
Following gallbladder removal surgery, it is important to make adjustments to your diet and lifestyle to support digestion and promote a smooth recovery. While most people go on to lead normal lives without a gallbladder, these changes can help minimise discomfort and optimise long-term health:
Dietary Adjustments
Lifestyle Changes
At Surgicare, we adhere to a personalised approach and utilise evidence-based procedures to provide our patients with safe and optimal outcomes.
When surgical intervention is necessary, we prioritise minimally invasive techniques to reduce postoperative discomfort, facilitate quicker recovery, and ensure a smoother healing process.
If you suspect gallstones or gallbladder disorders, consult our specialist for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment plans tailored to your condition.
Dedicated Centre for digestive health and upper gastrointestinal cancer care, endoscopy, and minimally invasive surgery.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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