Gallstones after removal of gallbladder

  I had my gall bladder removed 13 years ago.  I have had pain in the middle of the scar site for a week, nausea and generally felt unwell.
  Could a stone have formed in the duct to give me these problems and if so what should I do about it.  I feel most unwell about 30-60 mins after eating.
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Dear Dean L.,
With regard to the question of development of new bile duct stones, the answer is yes.  It is possible to develop common bile duct stones several years after a cholecystectomy, although usually, common duct stones are the result of retained stones at the time of the first surgery i.e. stones that were not seen and removed at the cholecystectomy.  It is not certain, however, that your current symptoms are the result of gall stones.  Usually people with common duct stones have severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain and may have jaundice and fever. Alternatively, pancreatitis can be the presenting problem.  I suggest that you have a blood test to check your liver tests.  An ultrasound of the common bile duct, liver and pancreas may show evidence of ductular obstruction.  Finally, you may require evaluation for other possible causes e.g. ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis.
This response is offered for your general information and should not replace the conclusions drawn from a careful and complete evaluation by your physician.

If you wish to be seen at our institution, Henry Ford Hospital, please call our PHYSICIAN REFERRAL LINE at(313) 876-2393 and request consultation with Dr.William Webb, one of our experts in the diagnosis and treatment of gallstone disease.  He would be able to determine which if any tests are needed and to perform nonsurgical (endoscopic) stone removal if a stone is found.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: common duct gall stones, abdominal pain, ERCP
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