Gallbladder Surgery
Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) may be recommended for gallstones causing symptoms or complications. The decision should take account of your symptoms, test results, other health conditions and the alternatives. Recovery and discharge arrangements are individual, not guaranteed by the keyhole approach.
In this guide
Overview
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed to remove the gallbladder. This patient leaflet aims to provide you with essential information about the procedure, its benefits, risks, and post-operative care instructions.
What is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a surgical technique that involves the removal of the gallbladder using a laparoscope, a specialized surgical instrument with a camera attached. This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and typically results in smaller incisions, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
- Smaller incisions: Leading to reduced scarring.
- Shorter recovery time: And hospital stay.
- Less post-operative pain
- Lower risk of complications: Such as infection.
Risks of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy is considered a safe procedure, like any surgery, it carries certain risks, including:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bile duct injury
- Risks associated with general anaesthesia
Preparing for Surgery
Before your surgery, your healthcare team will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare. This may include:
- Fasting before the procedure
- Stopping certain medications
- Informing your healthcare provider about any allergies or medical conditions you have
Post-Operative Care
After your surgery, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. This may include:
- Taking prescribed medications
- Monitoring your incision sites for signs of infection
- Gradually resuming normal activities as advised by your healthcare provider
- Following a specific diet to aid in digestion
When to Seek Medical Help
After your surgery, it is crucial to be aware of potential complications. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding or drainage from the incision sites
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- Fever or chills
Conclusion
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common and safe procedure used to treat gallbladder-related conditions. By understanding the procedure, its benefits, risks, and following post-operative care instructions, you can ensure a smooth recovery and optimal outcome. Your healthcare team will be available to address any concerns or questions you may have throughout your surgical journey.
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Gallbladder Surgery
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1 min 18 sec · Patient informationA little more clarity
Your questions, answered
Does cholecystectomy remove the stones or the whole gallbladder?
Cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder, including the stones inside it. Stones in the common bile duct may need a separate procedure to clear them. Your team should explain whether your tests suggest a bile duct stone and how this affects the plan.
Can I digest food without a gallbladder?
Yes. Your liver continues to make bile, which passes into the intestine without being stored in the gallbladder. Some people notice diarrhoea or other digestive symptoms afterwards. Discuss persistent symptoms with your care team rather than assuming they are an unavoidable part of recovery.
Will gallbladder removal relieve all my abdominal symptoms?
Not necessarily. Symptoms caused by gallstones may improve, but indigestion, bloating or abdominal pain can have other causes and may persist. It is important to discuss how confidently your symptoms have been linked to gallstones before deciding on surgery.
What should I ask about the risks and surgical approach?
Ask about bleeding, infection, blood clots, bile leakage, injury to the bile duct or nearby organs, and stones remaining in the bile duct. A keyhole operation may need to change to open surgery for safety. Your surgeon should explain which risks matter most in your case.
What if I become unwell while waiting for gallbladder surgery?
Do not wait for a planned appointment if symptoms become urgent. NHS advice is to seek urgent GP or NHS 111 help for abdominal pain lasting longer than 30 minutes, and to call 999 or go to A&E for sudden severe abdominal pain, pain spreading to the back with vomiting, a very high temperature or shivering, or yellow skin or eyes.
Patient information and guides
These leaflets provide general information and do not replace individual medical advice. Follow the instructions of your clinical team for your own care.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy (PDF, 2 pages)
An overview of keyhole gallbladder removal, including risks and post-operative care.
Sources & further reading
This guide provides general information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. Your clinical team will advise what is appropriate for you.