Thank you for reaching out and sharing the details of your motherâs recent MRCP and ERCP procedures. I understand your concern, especially when it comes to making surgical decisions.
1. Is gallbladder surgery still needed after ERCP and stent?
Yes, in most cases, ERCP with stenting is a temporary measure used to relieve bile duct obstruction and prevent immediate complications like infection (cholangitis) or pancreatitis. It does not treat the root cause â which is gallstones in the gallbladder.
If the gallbladder is not removed, stones can migrate again into the bile duct, potentially leading to recurrent obstruction, infection, or pancreatitis.
Especially in elderly patients, one-time management via ERCP alone is not considered definitive, unless the patient is unfit for surgery due to other health issues.
2. Should a follow-up test be done before surgery?
You are right to want clarity before proceeding. Here are reasonable steps:
â
Ultrasound (USG Abdomen): A repeat USG after ERCP will help:
Assess if gallstones are still present
Check for gallbladder wall inflammation
Confirm whether the CBD is decompressed
â
LFT (
Liver Function Test):
To evaluate current liver function and ensure there's no persistent obstruction.
If these are normal and her general health allows, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is still advised.
3. Is stent removal necessary?
Yes, absolutely. The stent is a temporary device, usually removed within 4â6 weeks. Keeping it longer can lead to:
Infection
Stent blockage
Biliary complications
Since the stent was placed on 5th June, it should ideally be removed around end of June or early July, preferably after the cholecystectomy.
Next Steps
Summary: â
Gallbladder surgery is still required to prevent recurrence. â
Repeat USG abdomen + LFTs can provide further clarity before surgery. â
Stent removal is essential within 3â4 weeks â preferably after cholecystectomy.