What Casues Pain In Gallbladder Removal Site After A Cholecystectomy?

Posted on Mon, 18 Aug 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 18 Aug 2014 Answered on

Thu, 4 Sep 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I had a cholecystectomy in 2003. About one year post surgery I started having burning pain again in the same area where my gall bladder was removed. I was placed on Nexium which helped eliminate the pain. Gradually I developed persistant constipation followed by loose stools over and over. I tried going off the Nexium and this has helped, however the burning pain is also back again. Is the cure for the pain worse for me?

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
I would like to have some more information

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for your query.

I would like to have some more information to be better able to help you.
Whether cholecystectomy was done by Laparoscopic method or open method. Was there any complication after surgery?

Nexium is used for pain due to Acid peptic disease/reflux esophagitis/Duodenal ulcer. I prescribe Pre and Probiotic capsules along with Rabeprazole to my patients with similar complaints. The complaints that you have mentioned are not related to gall bladder disease or post cholecystectomy status.

Constipation followed by loose stools goes more in favour of Irritable bowel syndrome.

If you come back with any queries, I will clarify further.
Wish you good health.
Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (10 hours later)

It was a laproscopic procedure. I had no problems immediately post surgery. The surgeon told me he had "clipped a nerve" and after a long period of time I might feel some pain as it healed. About one year post surgery is when the burning pain was felt just under my liver on the right side. That is when my then PCP started me on Nexium. I do not know if the two things are related. I do think that lack of peristalsis is a problem for me since using the Nexium.

Answered by Dr. Hari Charan Perigela (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Nexium doesn't affect peristalsis.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Cystic artery and cystic duct will be clamped during Laparoscopic cholecystectomy. I am not aware if any other structures were clamped during that process.

Nexium doesn't affect peristalsis. However chronic use may predispose to infection. Therefore my suggestion to take pre and Probiotic capsule with the consultation of your doctor.
You will have good bowel movements.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad