Biliary dyskinesia affects the function of the gallbladder by disrupting the flow of bile to the small intestine. It’s not always clear why this disorder occurs, but some cases result from sphincter dysfunction (a muscle that transfers bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine).
Regardless of the underlying cause, gallbladder dysfunction can lead to inflammation, contribute to discomfort in the upper right region of the abdomen, and increase your risk of infections. After ruling out gallstones, which cause similar symptoms, doctors may diagnose a patient with biliary dyskinesia.
Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) is the only effective treatment option when it comes to functional issues involving the organ. Fortunately, you can lead a healthy life without your gallbladder, as your liver will release bile directly into the small intestine instead of the gallbladder.
In addition to cholecystectomy, some patients also require an endoscopic procedure for issues with the sphincter muscle that connects to the small intestine. In this case, the endoscope is used to widen the diameter of the muscle, which prevents obstructed bile flow.
As laparoscopic surgery, cholecystectomies are minimally invasive procedures that usually involve a speedy recovery. However, digestion of fats can be affected immediately following the surgery, so your doctor may recommend reducing intake of fatty foods while you recover. It also helps to introduce foods back to your diet slowly to minimize bloating and gas.