Question:
What could cause pain under rt. rib??I don't have a gallbadder.

Pain under rt. rib and my gallbadder was removed 7 months ago. Some times pain is mild than other times pain is like a knife can't lay on my side when pain hits me hard. I take meds. for gas and I don't think that's the problem. any answers are welcome.TY!    — sttar (posted on October 11, 2005)

October 10, 2005
This could be phantom/referred pain from gallbladder removal which generally occurs 6 to 9 months after GB removal. It usually goes away on its own after 4 to 6 weeks.It cold also represent 12th rib syndrome. With weight loss, the 12th rib on tht side which is shorter can calcify at the tip, become less pliable and tend to "stick" into the abdominal wall muscles. causing a sharp stabbing pain, which comes and goes based on position. That would explain your inability to lay on your right side. NSAIDS, such as motrin, none of which we can take are the firstline of treatment, and sometimes an injection of marcaine and cortivosteroids are necessary. Your doctor should be able to direct you as to thecorrect diagnosis and treatment, and perhaps a rheuatologist experienced in the injections if he/she agrees with 12th rib syndrome
   — mrwmd

October 11, 2005
Some docs have a favorite side for working through a hole for wls. or if you had gallbladder removed could you have developed an adhesion or scar tissue build up in that spot?
   — pekelvr

October 12, 2005
I had my gallbladder out six years ago and still have pain there when I sit in certain positions or if I spend too long bent over. The doctor did an ultrasound and said it was just due to scar tissue that healed against my ribs. I hope this helps. Brooke
   — [Deactivated Member]

October 12, 2005
When I was 3 years post op from RNY surgery, I developed the same type pain that you are describing. I had numerous tests to determine if I had a stone in my biliary tract. After all the tests, some were non invasive, and others were quite invasive, it was determined that my pain was caused by biliary sludge. Due to being tested with dye, and having the dye flow through the biliary tree, we think the dye actually diluted the sludge allowing it to pass.. and I havent had any further problems since.. Ask your doc if you could have a stone that needs to be removed or sludge.. Take care Peachy hugs, Gina L [email protected]
   — Gina Landers

October 12, 2005
Hmmm... I knew there had to be such a thing as phantom gall-bladder pain! I was telling everyone that was what I had, but it was at 4 weeks and my surgeon thought it was muscle cramps. Turned out he was right as blood work showed low potassium. Taking potassium cured pain/muscle cramps and the craving I had for salt. Looks like there are a lot of possiblities here.
   — Jenny X.

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