A Simple Guide to Cholelithiasis: Symptoms, Causes, and Modern Treatments
Author : S. Gurumurthy | Published On : 26 Feb 2026
Are you experiencing a sudden, sharp pain in your upper abdomen? It could be more than just indigestion. Many people in India suffer from Cholelithiasis, commonly known as gallstones. While the name sounds complex, understanding the condition is the first step toward effective relief.
In this guide, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy, a leading Gastroenterologist in Chennai, explains everything you need to know about gallstones and the latest robotic and laparoscopic treatments available today.
Get more Information:- https://www.drsrivatsan.com/a-simple-guide-to-cholelithiasis/
What is Cholelithiasis?
Cholelithiasis is the medical term for the formation of stones inside the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located just below your liver on the right side of your abdomen. Its primary job is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps break down fats.
Sometimes, the chemical balance of bile gets disturbed. This causes substances like cholesterol or bilirubin to harden into small, pebble-like deposits. These stones can be as tiny as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.
Common Symptoms of Gallstones
Not everyone with gallstones feels pain immediately. These are often called "silent stones." However, when a stone blocks a bile duct, it can lead to a "gallbladder attack."
If you notice the following symptoms, you should consult a Gastroenterologist in Chennai promptly:
Sudden Pain: Intense pain in the upper right part of the abdomen.
Back Pain: Pain radiating between the shoulder blades.
Nausea and Vomiting: Frequent feeling of sickness after meals.
Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, and indigestion, especially after eating oily or fatty foods.
Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes (this indicates a more serious blockage).
Why Do Gallstones Form?
While the exact cause can vary, several factors contribute to Cholelithiasis:
High Cholesterol: If your bile contains too much cholesterol, it can crystallise into stones.
Excess Bilirubin: Certain blood disorders or liver conditions cause the liver to make too much bilirubin.
Gallbladder Stasis: If the gallbladder does not empty completely or often enough, the bile becomes very concentrated.
Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, a high-fat diet, and rapid weight loss are common triggers in the Indian population.
When to See a Gallbladder Surgeon?
If your symptoms are recurring, it is time to seek professional help. Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is a renowned Gallbladder Surgeon in Chennai with over 17+ years of experience. Consulting an expert early can prevent complications like gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) or pancreatitis.
As a specialist at GEM Hospital, Dr. Srivatsan uses advanced diagnostic tools to confirm the presence of stones and determine if surgery is necessary.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
A Surgical Gastroenterologist in Chennai will typically recommend an ultrasound or a CT scan to locate the stones. Once diagnosed, the most effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a procedure known as a Cholecystectomy.
1. Laparoscopic Surgery
This is the "gold standard" for gallbladder removal. Instead of a large incision, the surgeon makes 3 or 4 tiny "keyhole" cuts. A camera and specialized tools are used to remove the organ.
Benefits: Less pain, faster recovery, and minimal scarring.
2. Robotic Surgery
For complex cases, Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy utilizes the Da Vinci Si Robotic System. As a leading Robotic GI Oncosurgeon in Chennai, he uses robotic precision to ensure the highest safety standards.
Benefits: Greater accuracy, 3D high-definition vision, and better outcomes for the patient.
Why Choose Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy?
Choosing the right surgeon is crucial for a successful recovery. Dr. Srivatsan Gurumurthy is highly qualified with degrees including MBBS, MS (General Surgery), and DNB (GI Surgery). He is a fellow of FMIAS and FMAS, specializing in minimal access surgery.
He has co-authored 34 research papers and has been invited as faculty at international conferences in Seoul, Geneva, and Sri Lanka. His expertise in Robotic and Laparoscopic Liver and Pancreas surgery makes him a trusted name for patients across Tamil Nadu.
Life After Gallbladder Removal
A common concern is: "Can I live without a gallbladder?" The answer is yes. Your liver will still produce bile; it will simply flow directly into your small intestine instead of being stored. Most patients return to their normal diet and activities within a week or two following laparoscopic surgery.
Patient-Centric Care in Chennai
Dr. Srivatsan practices at two convenient locations in Chennai, ensuring accessible healthcare for all:
GEM Hospital, Perungudi: A world-class facility for gastroenterology.
SS Surgical Clinic, Mylapore: Personalized care in the heart of the city.
Whether you are looking for a Gastroenterologist in Chennai for a second opinion or need an expert Gallbladder Surgeon in Chennai, Dr. Srivatsan offers compassionate and advanced surgical care.
Contact Information
If you are suffering from abdominal pain or have been diagnosed with gallstones, do not delay your treatment.
Phone: 96772 31111
Email: [email protected]
Take the first step toward a pain-free life. Schedule your consultation with the best Robotic GI Oncosurgeon in Chennai today.
