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Gallbladder Disease Treatment in Flushing, NY

Expert evaluation and management of all gallbladder conditions, from cholecystitis to biliary dyskinesia, by a Johns Hopkins trained gastroenterologist.

Understanding Gallbladder Diseases

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver that stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. Bile is released into the small intestine to aid in fat digestion. Gallbladder diseases encompass a range of conditions that affect the structure or function of this organ, causing symptoms from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening emergencies.

Common gallbladder conditions include cholelithiasis (gallstones), cholecystitis (inflammation), cholesterolosis (strawberry gallbladder), biliary dyskinesia (functional disorder), gallbladder polyps, porcelain gallbladder, and gallbladder cancer. Each condition requires a different diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Many gallbladder disorders are interrelated -- for example, gallstones are the leading cause of cholecystitis.

At Dr. Jing Tong Gastroenterology, we provide thorough evaluation using advanced imaging and endoscopic techniques to accurately diagnose gallbladder conditions. Dr. Tong's expertise in therapeutic endoscopy, including ERCP and endoscopic ultrasound, enables precise assessment and treatment of biliary diseases.

Common Gallbladder Conditions

Cholecystitis

  • Acute: Sudden inflammation, usually from gallstones
  • Chronic: Repeated episodes of inflammation
  • Acalculous: Without gallstones (5-10% of cases)
  • Severe RUQ pain, fever, positive Murphy sign
  • May require urgent surgical intervention

Biliary Dyskinesia

  • Functional gallbladder disorder
  • Abnormal gallbladder emptying (low ejection fraction)
  • Biliary-type pain without stones
  • Diagnosed by HIDA scan with CCK
  • May respond to cholecystectomy

Other Conditions

  • Cholesterolosis (strawberry gallbladder)
  • Porcelain gallbladder (calcified wall)
  • Gallbladder polyps
  • Gallbladder adenomyomatosis
  • Gallbladder cancer (rare)

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnostic Tools

  • Right upper quadrant ultrasound (first-line imaging)
  • HIDA scan with CCK for gallbladder ejection fraction
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for detailed biliary assessment
  • MRCP for comprehensive bile duct imaging
  • CT scan for acute complications assessment
  • Blood tests: liver panel, CBC, lipase, bilirubin

Treatment Approach

  • Medical management: antibiotics, pain control, dietary modification
  • ERCP for bile duct stones and biliary drainage
  • Surgical referral for cholecystectomy when indicated
  • Surveillance for gallbladder polyps and porcelain gallbladder
  • Dietary counseling: low-fat diet, meal modification
  • Management of post-cholecystectomy syndrome

Why Choose Dr. Jing Tong

Johns Hopkins Trained

Specialized fellowship training in biliary diseases and advanced endoscopy at one of America's top medical institutions.

Therapeutic Endoscopy

ERCP and EUS expertise for precise biliary assessment and intervention without open surgery.

Multilingual Care

Fluent in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese for clear communication about your gallbladder condition.

Coordinated Care

Seamless coordination with surgeons when cholecystectomy is needed, ensuring comprehensive treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a gallbladder attack feel like?

A gallbladder attack typically involves sudden, intense pain in the right upper abdomen that may radiate to the back or right shoulder. It often occurs after eating a fatty meal and can last from 30 minutes to several hours, accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Can I live without a gallbladder?

Yes. After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver into the small intestine. Most people resume normal eating without issues. Some patients may experience more frequent, softer stools initially, but this usually resolves within weeks to months.

What is biliary dyskinesia?

Biliary dyskinesia is a motility disorder where the gallbladder doesn't empty properly despite having no stones. It is diagnosed with a HIDA scan showing a low ejection fraction (less than 35%). Symptoms mimic gallstone disease, and cholecystectomy may provide relief.

What foods should I avoid with gallbladder disease?

Reduce fatty, fried, and greasy foods, full-fat dairy, processed meats, and spicy foods. Eat smaller, more frequent meals. A high-fiber, low-fat diet with lean proteins and vegetables can help manage symptoms and reduce gallbladder attacks.

When should I see a gastroenterologist for gallbladder symptoms?

See a specialist if you experience recurrent upper abdominal pain after meals, pain lasting more than a few hours, jaundice, fever, or persistent nausea. Early evaluation can prevent complications like cholangitis, pancreatitis, and gallbladder perforation.

Related Services

Gallstones

Gallbladder Polyps

Bile Duct Cancer

Liver Diseases

Gallbladder Problems? Get Expert Help

Schedule a thorough evaluation with Dr. Jing Tong in Flushing, NY.

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