Cholecystectomy (Removal of the Gallbladder)

What is a cholecystectomy and why is it necessary?

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, which is located in the abdomen beneath the right side of the liver. Gallbladder problems are usually the result of gallstones. These stones may block the flow of bile from your gallbladder, causing the organ to swell. Other causes include cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) and cholangitis (inflammation of the bile duct).

Details of the procedure

What do I need to do before surgery?

Please contact your insurance company to verify the coverage and determine whether a referral is required. You will be asked to pre-register with the appropriate hospital and provide demographic and insurance information. This must be completed at least five to ten days before the surgery date. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.

What happens on the day of surgery?

You will report to a pre-operative nursing unit, where you will change into a hospital gown. A nurse will review your chart and confirm that all the paperwork is in order. You will be taken to a pre-operative nursing unit where the anesthesiologist will start an IV. Before any medications are administered, your surgeon will verify your name and the type of procedure you are having. You will then be taken to the operating room. After the appropriate form of anesthesia is administered, surgery will be performed.

What type of anesthesia will be used?

You will have a pre-operative interview with an anesthesiologist, who will ask you questions regarding your medical history. Gallbladder removal is performed under general anesthesia, which will keep you asleep during surgery.

What happens during surgery, and how is it performed?

If your surgery is performed laparoscopically, your surgeon will make three to four small incisions and insert tube-like instruments through them. The abdomen will be filled with gas to help the surgeon view the abdominal cavity. A camera will be inserted through one of the tubes to display images on a monitor located in the operating room. Other instruments will be placed through the additional tubes. In this manner, your surgeon will be able to work inside your abdomen without having to make a larger incision.
Your surgeon will perform the gall bladder removal with the laparoscopic method unless other factors require open surgery. If the performed with the open method, a larger incision will be made in the abdomen.
Once inside, your surgeon will separate and remove the gall bladder.

What happens after the surgery?

Once the surgery is completed, you will be taken to a post-operative or recovery unit where a nurse will monitor your recovery. It is important to keep your bandages clean and dry. Your physician may prescribe medication for pain, nausea and vomiting which are not uncommon with this procedure. You will be scheduled for a follow-up appointment within two weeks after your surgery.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Although some patients may stay overnight, most go home the same day.

What are the risks associated with gallbladder removal?

As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, or an adverse reaction to anesthesia. Other risks include bile duct or bowel injury. Your surgeon will inform you of the risks prior to surgery.

What should I watch out for?

Be sure to call your doctor if any of the following symptoms appear:
• Fever
• Worsening pain
• Redness or swelling around the incision
• The incision is warm to the touch
• Drainage from the incision

Will there be scar(s)?

If the procedure is performed laparoscopically the incisions should heal well, leaving small discrete scars. If the open method is used, a larger scar will be present.

When can I expect to return to work and/or resume normal activities?

This varies among patients. There are no restrictions after laparoscopic gallbladder removal. You will be encouraged to return to normal activities such as showering, driving, walking up stairs, light lifting, and work as soon as you feel comfortable. Some patients can return to work in a few days, while others prefer to wait longer. You should not engage in heavy lifting or straining for six to eight weeks after open surgery. If you are taking narcotic medications for pain, you should not drive.