When you experience digestive problems, sometimes the solution is surgery. One common procedure is the cholecystectomy, or the removal of the gallbladder. You should know what to expect before, during, and after the procedure if your doctor has recommended this surgery.
What is the gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that is just below your liver on the right side of your abdomen. Its main job is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by your liver. Bile is released when you eat fatty foods. It helps to break down the fats.
Why would I need gallbladder removal?
Gallstone is the most common reason for the removal of the gallbladder. These are hard deposits that form inside the gallbladder and can cause problems if they block the flow of bile. Some of the symptoms of gallstones are:
- Sharp pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen
- Pain that radiates to your right shoulder or back
- Vomiting or Nausea
- Fever
- Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
Other conditions that might require gallbladder removal include inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), large gallbladder polyps, or, rarely, gallbladder cancer.
Types of gallbladder removal surgery
There are two main approaches to removing the gallbladder:
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: This is the most common and least invasive approach. The surgeon makes several small incisions in your abdomen and uses a tiny camera and specialized instruments to remove your gallbladder. Most people go home the same day and recover within a week.
Open cholecystectomy: Sometimes, a traditional open surgery is necessary. This involves a larger incision under the right side of your ribcage. This approach might be needed if you have severe gallbladder disease or complications during a laparoscopic procedure. Recovery typically takes 4-6 weeks.
Preparing for surgery
Before your gallbladder removal, your doctor will:
- Perform blood tests and imaging studies
- Review your medications (some may need to be stopped temporarily)
- Give instructions about when to stop eating and drinking
- Discuss anesthesia options
Recovery after gallbladder removal
Most people recover quickly after laparoscopic gallbladder removal. You might have some pain and bruising around your incisions, but this typically improves within a few days. Your doctor will likely encourage you to get up and move around soon after surgery to prevent blood clots.
You can usually return to normal activities within a week after laparoscopic surgery or 4-6 weeks after open surgery. However, you should avoid heavy lifting for a few weeks.
Life without a gallbladder
You can live a normal, healthy life without a gallbladder. After the removal of the gallbladder, bile flows directly from your liver into your small intestine. Some people notice digestive changes after surgery, including bloating, looser or more frequent stools, and difficulty digesting fatty foods.
These symptoms usually improve within a few weeks or months as your body adjusts. Some people find that eating smaller, more frequent meals and limiting fatty or spicy foods helps manage these symptoms.
When to call your doctor
It is advised to contact your doctor if you experience increasing pain, severe nausea or vomiting, yellowing of skin or eyes (Jaundice), fever, or persistent digestive problems.
Most people find that the removal of the gallbladder resolves their painful symptoms and improves their quality of life. If you’ll undergo this surgery, talk with your doctor about any concerns and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions for the best outcome.
