Question:
Ruptured Gallbladder-Ever heard of such a thing?

Hi, I'm six months postop RNY. I started having stomach pains about two months ago, but tests showed no signs of gall stones. Finally, after the pain kept doubtling me over after meals; they did something called a hidascan, (sp?) which showed my gallbladder had totally shut down. They rushed me into surgery and told me my gallbladder was within minutes of rupturing. It was really inflamed, enlarged, and infected. Could this have something to do with my WLS? Any thoughts? Also wanted to push the thought that if you are fairly sure you have a problem, insist on a hidascan (sp?). It saved my life. I've been a long time lurker. I just want to take this time to thank everyone for all of their help. Your courage is astounding! Leigh    — Leigh P. (posted on October 7, 2002)

October 7, 2002
Well I have been doing lots of reseacrh on gallbladers, since my wife Jen has a problem with hers/ MOs even without surgery are at great risk for gallbladder disease. Now add WLS and the percentage goes way up. The diet changes after surgery bring on gallstones. Appendixes rupture so it makes sense gallbladers can too. Thanks for the heads up on that scan. If theres ANY question about Jen gallbladder I will insist on it.
   — bob-haller

October 7, 2002
Before I had WLS, I had the same problem. Rushed into gall bladder surgery. My mother, in her infinite wisdom, told me, on the way to my surgery, that this is how Dan Blocker (of "Ponderosa" fame) died. You're completely right, don't ignore pain, ever.
   — sandieguy

October 7, 2002
Yes, I actually had this problem the day first day I got home. It was not a complication of my surgery though. I had been having problems with pain, diarehha (SP?), bad gas, etc. after meals (This was months before surgery). The pain was excruciating! I had to have emergency surgery. It appears that my gall bladder had actually ruptured a while ago and in my body's attempt to heal itself, my gall bladder apparently attached to my intestine (I guess, that's where it was). Anyway, it ruptured again, and the bile went every where. The doctor said in about 4 or 5 more hours I would have died without that emergency surgery.
   — alexis G.

October 7, 2002
This is a good reminder as to why all WLS patients should take either Urso or Actigall medications for six months after surgery. This is preventative medicine. If you are not taking either of these, then ask your surgeon or primary doctor.
   — Sue A.

October 7, 2002
Sandie, I wondered what happened to Dan, Given his large size I was always a fan. But what a time to share this. I am sure Jen wishes now she hadnt refused to take that prescription. It appears she needs surgery, and we wouldnt be able to go to my dads in phoenix for thanksgiving. I havent seen him in 3 years, and we already bought the non refundable airline tickets.<P> ALWAYS FOLLOW DOCTORS ORDERS!
   — bob-haller

October 7, 2002
HI..JUST HAD A GIRLFRIEND WHO HAD WLS TWO YEARS AGO END UP IN THE HOSPITAL LAST WEEK WITH A GALBLADDER ATTACK...SHE HAD SURGERY AND THEY FOUND THAT HALF OF HER GALBLADDER HAD ACTUALLY "DIED"...SOME DOCTOR'S WILL REMOVE THE GALBLADDER AT THE SAME TIME AS WLS, I THINK IT SHOULD BE PART OF THE PROCEEDURE SINCE YOUR DIET CHANGES SOOOOO DRASTICALLY AFTERWARDS....
   — KATHY C.