Re: Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction

Biliary dyskinesia (BD) is after the name given to the condition. It is more often a symptom than a disease in its own right. It may be an indication of Gallstones or pancreatitis. It can also be brought on by a specific food. There is some evidence to suggest that stress is a significant factor. At least one theory points to dopamine receptor dysfunction. It is possible that the gallbladder fails to receive the proper signal from the brain when bile enters the chamber. The use of some pain killers and recreational drugs (in fact any medication that leads to delayed stomach emptying) may also upset the biliary system and lead to BD.

BD is a sharp, intermittent cramp-like pain just beneath the right bottom rib. Others may feel only a vague discomfort or dull ache in this region. Most often, this pain is localised and appears approximately 40 minutes or so after the patient has eaten a meal high in fat content. Nausea may also occur, though actual vomiting is rare.

Obesity, age and gender are all known to be factors. Older women who are overweight are more likely to suffer from biliary dyskinesia than men.

It is very difficult to diagnose abdominal pain condition and if the biliary system is suspected it would be normal practise to remove the gallbladder. Then if the symptoms persist after the operation Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction (SOD) is considered. SOD is more likely used post gallbladder surgery and BD before.

The are three types of SOD and not all respond well to surgery. Even when all the criteria are met the cure rate is around 2 in 3.