What tests should be done after gallstone surgery?

Postoperative follow-up for gallstone surgery usually requires blood tests, B-ultrasound examinations, and functional tests to comprehensively evaluate the postoperative recovery and whether the bile duct function is normal. These tests can help doctors determine whether there are postoperative complications, such as residual bile duct stones, bile duct infection, or other functional abnormalities, and provide patients with targeted health advice.

1. Blood test

Blood tests are an essential step in postoperative follow-up. By checking liver function (such as ALT, AST, bilirubin, etc.) and inflammatory indicators (such as C-reactive protein, white blood cell count), it is possible to evaluate whether the patient's biliary system has returned to normal and whether there is infection or inflammation. For example, if the bilirubin level is elevated, it may indicate bile duct obstruction or postoperative bile leakage; an increase in white blood cells may indicate the occurrence of infection. Patients need to undergo regular blood tests after surgery to detect problems early and deal with them in a timely manner.

2. Ultrasound examination

B-ultrasound is one of the most commonly used imaging examinations after gallstone surgery. It can clearly observe whether there are residual stones, stenosis or bile duct dilatation and other abnormalities. B-ultrasound examinations are usually performed 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year after surgery to keep track of the recovery progress. If the patient has right upper abdominal pain or jaundice after surgery, a B-ultrasound examination should be performed immediately to clarify the cause. The doctor may recommend enhanced B-ultrasound or further CT examinations based on the specific condition.

3. Functional inspection

Some patients may experience abnormal bile excretion or indigestion after surgery, so functional examinations are also an important part of the follow-up examination. Commonly used examinations include:

Magnetic resonance pancreatocholangiopancreatography (MRCP): used to evaluate the structure and function of the bile duct, especially whether there are bile duct strictures or residual stones.

Gastrointestinal motility examination: evaluate whether gastrointestinal motility abnormalities or indigestion occur after surgery.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): For patients suspected of having residual bile duct stones, ERCP can directly observe the bile duct condition and perform treatment simultaneously.

Postoperative precautions

1. Regular check-ups: Perform relevant check-ups on time according to the doctor's advice, especially paying close attention to recovery within 6 months after surgery.

2. Diet management: The postoperative diet should be low in fat and high in fiber to avoid greasy food that stimulates the biliary system.

3. Observe your physical condition: If you experience symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, or fever, seek medical attention and have a follow-up examination.

4. Control your weight: Obesity after surgery may increase the risk of stone recurrence. Proper exercise and diet control are very important.

Postoperative follow-up can not only detect potential complications, but also provide protection for the patient's long-term health. With a reasonable follow-up plan and life management, most patients can smoothly return to normal life. If you have any questions or abnormal symptoms, please consult a professional doctor as soon as possible.