Gall Bladder

Gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver in the upper right abdomen. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a yellow-brown digestive enzyme produced by the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of lipids in the small intestine. The gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine in response to signals from the hormone cholecystokinin, which is released when fats are present in the digestive tract.

Structure

The gallbladder measures approximately 7 to 10 centimeters in length and has a capacity of about 30 to 50 milliliters. It is divided into three parts: the fundus, body, and neck. The neck tapers and connects to the bile ducts, which transport bile to and from the gallbladder and liver to the small intestine.

Function

The main function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile. Bile is continuously produced by the liver, but its release into the small intestine is most effective during digestion. By storing bile, the gallbladder ensures a readily available supply to aid in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats. Bile also assists in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are fat-soluble.

Gallbladder Diseases

Several conditions can affect the gallbladder, including:

• Gallstones (cholelithiasis) - Hardened deposits that can form from bile components. Gallstones can cause pain, nausea, and potentially lead to complications such as cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder).
• Cholecystitis - Inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to gallstones blocking the ducts leading from the gallbladder to the small intestine.
• Gallbladder cancer - A rare condition that often goes undetected until it is in an advanced stage.
• Biliary dyskinesia - A condition characterized by abnormal muscle function of the bile ducts and gallbladder, leading to pain and digestive issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of gallbladder diseases typically involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Blood tests may also be used to look for signs of infection or inflammation.

Treatment depends on the specific condition and its severity. Options include:

• Dietary changes to reduce fat intake
• Medications to dissolve gallstones
• Surgery to remove gallstones or the gallbladder itself (cholecystectomy)

Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder, is a common treatment for symptomatic gallstones and other gallbladder conditions. This procedure can be performed using a minimally invasive technique known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy or through traditional open surgery. The removal of the gallbladder does not significantly affect the digestion of food, as bile can flow directly from the liver to the small intestine.