What tests should patients take before gallstone surgery?

Before undergoing gallstone surgery, patients need to undergo a series of examinations to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the surgery. These examinations usually include abdominal ultrasound, blood tests, and liver function tests to fully evaluate the patient's health status, determine the size, number, and specific location of gallstones, and also to detect whether there are other lesions or complications. The specific examination items are determined by the doctor based on the patient's specific situation to ensure that the risk of surgery is minimized.

Abdominal ultrasound is the preferred imaging test for diagnosing gallstones. Through high-frequency sound wave imaging, doctors can directly see the gallbladder and the stones inside it. This test is not only non-invasive, but also helps to identify the presence of complications such as cholecystitis. Blood tests are used to monitor the patient's overall health, including indicators such as white blood cell count and hemoglobin level, which help to determine whether there are problems such as infection and anemia. Liver function tests assess whether the liver is affected, for example, by measuring indicators such as transaminases and bilirubin to determine the health of the liver. CT or MRI is sometimes used in complex cases to provide more detailed anatomical information.

Abdominal ultrasound is the preferred imaging test for diagnosing gallstones. Through high-frequency sound wave imaging, doctors can directly see the gallbladder and the stones inside it. This test is not only non-invasive, but also helps to identify the presence of complications such as cholecystitis. Blood tests are used to monitor the patient's overall health, including indicators such as white blood cell count and hemoglobin level, which help to determine whether there are problems such as infection and anemia. Liver function tests assess whether the liver is affected, for example, by measuring indicators such as transaminases and bilirubin to determine the health of the liver. CT or MRI is sometimes used in complex cases to provide more detailed anatomical information.

After completing these examinations, if the patient has underlying health problems, such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease, the doctor usually needs to conduct further specialist evaluation to reduce the risk of surgery. Nutritional adjustments and exercise before surgery can also help patients better cope with postoperative recovery and increase their body's resistance. Stopping medications that affect blood clotting and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are also important preoperative preparation steps. During the preparation period, doctors and patients should maintain good communication so that patients understand the surgical process, risks, and expected postoperative recovery. These preparation measures not only help reduce the occurrence of intraoperative and postoperative complications, but also lay a solid foundation for the success of the operation. After completing all preparations, patients can face gallstone surgery more confidently, thereby improving treatment outcomes and quality of life after surgery. Regardless of the size of the operation, adequate physical and mental preparation is the key to success, allowing patients to return to health and normal life as soon as possible after surgery.