Bertha Gxowa performed its first laparoscopic cholecystectomy
“Patients who experience recurring pain in the upper right part of their abdomen, known as biliary colic, may need to have their gallbladder removed."
Bertha Gxowa District Hospital recently marked a significant milestone for its newly established surgical department after successfully performing its first laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
A patient in her mid-forties presented with right upper quadrant pain, which is what is commonly seen in patients with gallstones.
An ultrasound was performed on her and it showed that she had multiple gallstones impacted into the gallbladder, and clinicians at the hospital decided to perform a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
This is an innovative surgical procedure that involves the removal of the gallbladder through small incisions, using a camera inserted into the abdomen.
“Gallstones are generally caused by abdominal fat or the excess of a substance in our bile known as bilirubin.
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“Most people who have gallstones will never experience gallbladder pain and will be able to live their lives ignorant of them,” said Bertha Gxowa Hospital communication officer Mampe Marapyane.
“Patients who experience recurring pain in the upper right part of their abdomen, known as biliary colic, may need to have their gallbladder removed.
“The gallbladder stores a substance called bile, which helps with digesting fats. Sometimes, when the flow of bile is disrupted, stones can form in the gallbladder.
“This can lead to complications like pancreatitis, cholecystitis, cholangitis, and even an increased risk of developing cancer in the long term,” said Marapyane.
Dr Ferini Dayal, a surgeon at the hospital, said that through the procedure, clinicians can decrease the chances of these complications occurring in the gallbladder and improve the overall health of patients.
“As a district hospital, patient selection is crucial to ensuring optimal results. Patients with gallbladder stones identified through ultrasound and other imaging can now undergo this procedure at our facility,” said Dayal.
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“By offering this service, we do not only provide relief to our community but also alleviate the burden on tertiary institutions while equipping our young surgeons with essential skills.
“Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several advantages including reduced hospital stay, less post-operative pain and quicker recovery for patients,” said Dayal.
