Woman Suffers from Cucumber-Sized Gallstone
*Delhi* – Gallstones often develop silently without noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, they may cause abdominal pain and vomiting, which people often dismiss by taking painkillers. A 66-year-old woman from Delhi was diagnosed with an extremely rare case of an enlarged gallbladder stone measuring a striking 8.5 x 5.5 x 3.5 cm (88mm). The case presented unique surgical and medical challenges, yet the expert team at MASSH MANAS Hospital successfully managed and treated the condition, ensuring a positive outcome for the patient from Kondli, Delhi.
Gallbladder enlargement of this magnitude due to a stone is an exceptionally rare occurrence. The organ, which typically measures around 7 to 10 cm in length and 3 to 4 cm in width, was found to be significantly larger in this patient.
Five years ago, she experienced episodes of abdominal pain and vomiting. Over time, the pain became intermittent and mild. Instead of consulting a doctor, she relied on painkillers, which only worsened her condition. As the problem escalated, she finally sought medical attention. Tests revealed chronic cholecystitis and cholelithiasis, with a massive gallstone resembling the size of a small cucumber.
Typically, gallstones range from 5-15 mm, but in this case, an ultrasound detected an unusually large 88 mm stone. Dr. Adarsh Kumar Chauhan, Head of Laparoscopy, GI & General Surgery at MASSH MANAS Hospital, explained that prolonged neglect of symptoms had caused damage to the gallbladder lining, making it adhere to the duodenum (small intestine) and stomach wall. Dr. Chauhan and his team successfully performed a laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the fragile gallbladder along with the massive gallstone. Compared to open surgery, laparoscopic procedures carry lower risks.
The patient was discharged in stable condition two days after the operation.
“According to doctors, untreated gallstones can lead to severe complications such as gallbladder cancer or fistula formation. Gallstones are more common in women, particularly those over 40, due to hormonal factors. This condition is often associated with the "Four Fs" – Fertile (of reproductive age), Forty (over 40 years old), Fatty (obesity), and Female.”
Research also suggests that after the age of 40, the risk of gallstones increases 4-10 times, affecting 16.6% of overweight women in their reproductive years.
Following the medical feat, Mr. Hanish Bansal said “Don't Ignore Abdominal Pain – It Could Be Gallstones”.
