GALLSTONES IN PREGNANT WOMEN: DETECTION, OBSTACLES, AND TREATMENT

Аннотация

Gallstone disease often manifests in pregnant women due to physiological changes, a multifaceted interplay of factors that alter bile composition, and the crystallization of substances that promote stone formation. The increased level of estrogen during pregnancy enhances the secretion of cholesterol in bile, while progesterone slows down the emptying of the gallbladder, leading to a predisposition to the formation of stones in the gallbladder. From a diagnostic point of view, ultrasonography remains the gold standard since it is non-invasive and without radiation. The presence of stones in the gallbladder can trigger complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or cholangitis, posing a risk for both the mother and the fetus. In the presence of symptoms, treatments vary from conservative treatment, which includes dietary adjustment and pain relief. However, in case complications arise, the possibility of laparoscopic cholecystectomy a minimally invasive surgical procedure can be considered. The timing of the surgery, preferably in the second trimester, is crucial to minimize risks to the fetus. Thorough monitoring and an interdisciplinary approach are essential for treating gallstone disease during pregnancy.