Alternatives for removal of gallstones

[lpearce]

I have two large gallstones, souvenirs of earlier years when I was careless of my diet. I've had three gall bladder attacks in the last three years and have ended up in Emergency (where the gallstones where discovered by ultrasound).

I have been trying to research techniques for getting rid of gallstones. I'm not willing to lose the organ and would like to investigate Lithotripsy and Dissolution or, as a last resort, removing the two stones through an incision in the gall baldder (which I believe is called cholelithotomy, as opposed to cholecystectomy or removal of the entire gall bladder). I can't seem to find a doctor who's willing to discuss these options with me. I just keep getting told that the only option is to take out the entire organ, which I'm not willing to do, and they won't explain why they're refusing to discuss alternatives. So I just continue along with discomfort and a yearly attack. I've tried to explain that my diet is completely different -- vegetarian with the exception of an occasional bit of fish, and I don't eat unhealthy fats at all. Surely a doctor could at least explain WHY he or she is refusing to look at alternatives? There is a huge doctor shortage in this province. Could just whipping out the whole gall bladder be faster to do and that's why they won't consider alternatives?

Thanks

[meyan]

Oh and that they are very expensive as well.

[meyan]

My doctor says that the alternatives are only used in extreme cases such as when surgery can't be preformed. Also that they are only temporary. I agree with you I don't want surgery either. I'm scheduled to see a surgeon in March 2010 and I pray he offers more hope. Good luck to you too.