Abdominal Pain after Gallbladder Surgery

[DRN21]

I had my gallbladder removed laparoscopically 3 months ago.  2 months ago I developed a sharp pain in my upper abdomen (right underneath my Xiphoid process.)  The pain is constant but gets worse after eating, regardless of what type of food it is.  Occasionally the pain produces nausea but I do not vomit.  I have been on Nexium 40 mg for 1 1/2 years prior to surgery.  I don't have any reflux or heartburn and haven't since I've been taking Nexium

My liver function tests, MRCP, and EGD are all normal.  A colonoscopy done 2 years ago revealed some diverticulois but was otherwise normal.

My GI suspects adhesions from my surgery but my surgeon says that is very unlikely but is willing to open me up again to look for any adhesions.A second opinion from a different GI suspects gastroparesis.

What are your thoughts?  I'm in constant pain and I'd like to take care of problem but I'm not excited about having surgery again.  Especially if it won't fix my problem.

[mikcin]

I like you had my GB removed.  It took several trips to Drs. for post pain.  Was told it can take up to 2 yrs to get back to normal..well almost 5 yrs later I have had 3 ERCPs to clear the CBD of impacted stones and sludge.  So I definately would ask if an ERCP would be helpful before they open you back up.  I spent many trips to ER and hospitalized a few times from the pain.  I suffered way too long with every test in the book and being diagnosed with IBS which I feel is what they give you when they can't figure it out.  I had ended up in the hospital with VERY high liver enzymes before they finally found the large impacted stones in my CBD and removed them, then 6 weeks later had to go get another ERCP to remove sludge that did not show up on the 2nd CT scan.  I went to three different gastros before I am finally feeling better.  I hope this helps!

[DRN21]

Do you think that the pain could be due to adhesions?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The tests I would have thought of doing have already been done, excluding most of the major GI causes.

Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction can be considered, and evaluated with an ERCP and Sphincter of Oddi manometry.

This option can be discussed with your GI physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com