Gallstones, Cholelithiasis, Lithiasic Cholecystitis

Specialist in Laparoscopic and Robot-Assisted Cholecystectomy

Conditions treated

Office Location

Calle 5 de mayo #1 Ajijic Centro C.P. 45920 Consultation Hours: 1 and 3 Tuesday of month 10 AM to 1 PM whatsapp: 3317702882

Gallbladder

What are gallstones? Cholelithiasis is a condition that occurs when gallstones form in the gallbladder. The most common symptom is abdominal pain It usually appears in the upper right side of the abdomen or in the pit of the stomach. It may feel like cramping, pressure, or burning, and often becomes more intense after meals, especially those high in fat. The pain typically radiates to the back or right shoulder. It can become so intense that it causes disability, nausea, or vomiting. The pain may last from a few minutes to several hours. In milder cases, the patient may experience a prolonged sensation of fullness, gas, or stomach discomfort after eating.

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What are gallstones and why do they form?

Gallstones, also called biliary calculi, are small solid deposits that form inside the gallbladder. They can appear due to a high-fat diet, sedentary lifestyle, overweight, hormonal factors, or even family history.

How do I know if I have gallstones?

The most common symptom is pain in the upper right part of the abdomen or in the pit of the stomach, especially after eating fatty foods. You may also feel nausea, vomiting, gas, or stomach heaviness.

Is it dangerous to have gallstones?

Yes, if not treated in time. Gallstones can block the bile ducts and cause serious infections such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or even jaundice. That is why it is important to have it evaluated by a specialist.

Do I absolutely have to undergo surgery?

Not all cases require immediate surgery, but if symptoms are frequent or complications arise, it is most advisable to remove the gallbladder through laparoscopic or robotic surgery—a safe, fast, and minimally invasive procedure.

What happens if my gallbladder is removed? Can I live without it?

Yes! Many people live perfectly well without a gallbladder. Digestion adapts within a few days. The only recommendation is to maintain a balanced, low-fat diet.

Is the surgery painful? Does recovery take a long time?

Laparoscopic and robotic surgery is performed through small incisions. It is minimally painful, and most patients return home the same day or the next. Recovery can be quick, usually within a week.

Can gallstones be dissolved without surgery?

There are medications, but they are not effective in all cases and take a long time. Additionally, the stones tend to recur. That is why surgery remains the most definitive and safe treatment.

How are gallstones diagnosed?

The most common method is with an abdominal ultrasound. In some cases, blood tests, CT scans, or more specialized studies such as MR cholangiography or ERCP may also be required.

Can gallstones cause cancer?

Not directly, but if ignored for a long time, they can cause serious complications. Detecting and treating them early is the best way to prevent any risk. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is the condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus (reflux) and trigger symptoms. Symptoms The main symptoms of GERD are:

Heartburn, described by the patient as a burning sensation behind the sternum that can rise from the stomach area to the throat.
Regurgitation, which is the passage of stomach contents to the mouth without effort or gagging.

Other symptoms that may occur include chest pain, burping, bad breath, or respiratory symptoms. Symptoms can worsen after meals or during nighttime rest.

When should I see a doctor immediately?

If you have very intense pain that doesn’t improve, fever, chills, or notice yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), it is urgent to seek medical evaluation. It could be a serious complication. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is the condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus (reflux) and trigger symptoms. Symptoms The main symptoms of GERD are:

Heartburn, described by the patient as a burning sensation behind the sternum that can rise from the stomach area to the throat.
Regurgitation, which is the passage of stomach contents to the mouth without effort or gagging.

Other symptoms that may occur include chest pain, burping, bad breath, or respiratory symptoms. Symptoms can worsen after meals or during nighttime rest.

medical fees

LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY Starting at $35,000 MXN

Includes:

Surgeon’s fees
Anesthesiologist’s fees
Fees for 2 assistants
Laparoscopy tower
Instrument technician

** Does not include histopathological study of the gallbladder (cost $3,000)
Hospital costs will depend on the hospital you choose for surgery:

Evaluation consultation

Do you have health insurance? We’ll help you make the most of it.

Your health is my priority; that is why support throughout the entire process is very important for your recovery.

Together, we will find the best treatment for you.
Schedule your appointment today.

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What do the patients say?

    
 
 
       Publicado en Google  
   
   monica velazquez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelente médico, persona y ser humano.
Corrí con la gran bendición de caer en sus manos en 3 ocasiones que tuve que ser intervenida quirúrgicamente  y fue quien me sacó adelante de ellas.
Siempre atento y profesional antes, durante y después de cada operación hasta lograr el alta definitiva ✨
No me dejó caer en ningún momento, tanto en mi estadía en el hospital como fuera de él.
100% recomendando, MUY profesional!
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Margarita Hernández 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Mi respeto y admiración para con el dr Zaragoza , muy agradecida por haberle salvado la vida a mi hija , le dedicó día y noche hasta sacarla adelante y darla de alta .
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Carlos Velazquez Mendoza 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Mi experiencia con el dr. Miguel Ángel Zaragoza, fue muy satisfactoria, y doy las gracias a Dios por haber tenido la fortuna de tenerlo como medico, y sacar adelante a mi hija de una situación muy grave, con sus conocimientos acertados, experiencia y humanismo desarrollados durante las
operaciones y su recuperación es que hoy mi hija goza de mucha salud, por lo tanto agradezco a este gran doctor, además de ese gran profesionalismo mostrado con todos los pacientes que lo vi tratar, motivo por lo cual lo recomiendo muy ampliamente como el maravilloso doctor que es, gracias
Doc. Miguel Ángel, ojalá y muchas personas tuvieran la fortuna de contar con su atención medica.
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Oskrecon N 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Grandioso Doctor en toda la expresión de la palabra, salvó a mi novia de una pancreatitis grave, su equipo y el hicieron hasta lo imposible durante meses para salvarla, incluso durante su recuperación, siempre al pendiente, eternamente agradecido por haberlo conocido y por su labor tan profesional.
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   ALICIA LOEZA CORICHI 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelente médico, muy preciso en el diagnóstico así como en el tratamiento (cirugías). Un cirujano joven pero con amplia experiencia que además, es empático y amable con el paciente y la familia. Explica perfectamente cada situación, ordena solo los estudios necesarios y receta los medicamentos específicos. Un gran apoyo como médico de cabecera
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Alex Gomersall 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Dr Miguel is an incredible doctor. He performed a difficult surgery on my mother-in-law which another surgeon chose not to do because it was too complicated. He inspired confidence by always giving plenty of information and explaining what he was doing. His bedside manner is caring and compassionate. I would highly recommend Dr Miguel and in fact we chose him to perform a second surgery for my wife.
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Jeanne Camelio 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. I can’t say enough positive things about my experiences with Dr. Miguel. He is calm, professional, an excellent communicator, positive, responsive, and an excellent surgeon. He made a huge and positive difference in both my physical health and my fears related to surgery. And, he is a wonderful, caring human being! He also performed a very complicated surgery on my elderly mother, and her health has greatly improved. Her recovery was speedier than we all thought it would be, and Dr. Miguel saw her in followup care on several occasions and made himself available to answer questions. My family has great trust in him and in his skills!
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Fay Freed 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Dr Miguel is a stellar human being and a very fine surgeon! He gets the best possible rating on all counts. He cared for me in two life threatening situations last year (2024) and now, six months after my last surgery, I am more well than in many years. His care for me was above and beyond the normal care of a surgeon. He visited me nearly everyday in the hospital and also has given me access to his personal text which he has always answered promptly. His service was impeccable and kind.
I would recommend Dr Miguel to anyone with full confidence.
As an aside - - he told my husband that he was caring for me as if it was his own mother.
  
 
      Publicado en Google  
   
   Moisés Cano Nava 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifica que la fuente original de la reseña sea Google. Excelente atención! Es un doctor muy agradable, empático y profesional. Desde la primer consulta todo queda super claro, se toma el tiempo necesario para resolver todas tus dudas y darte opciones adecuadas. La cirugía fue de maravilla, en un par de días ya estaba en casa y con molestias mínimas. Súper recomendado, gracias por todo Doc!!!

Calle 5 de mayo #1 Ajijic Centro C.P. 45920 Consultation Hours: 1 and 3 Tuesday of month 10 AM to 1 PM whatsapp: 3317702882

The results obtained may vary from patient to patient; they depend on adherence to the treatment, the patient’s habits, race, sex, work and sports factors, and all those that encompass the patient’s life sphere.

Healthcare provider: Dr. MIGUEL ÁNGEL ZARAGOZA MENDIETA University of Guanajuato Specialty in General Surgery: C.P. 9133680 Advertising notice: 2614102002A00320

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