SURGEON
Cholecystectomy: Understanding Gallbladder Removal
What is the Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store bile and release it into the duodenum when needed for fat digestion.
What is Cholecystectomy?
Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, typically performed as the definitive treatment for conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis, polyps, or complications caused by bile duct obstruction.
Laparoscopic vs. Open Cholecystectomy:
Your doctor may recommend cholecystectomy if you exhibit signs of conditions such as:
Although cholecystectomy is generally safe in experienced hands, potential risks include:
After the surgery, most patients experience significant pain relief and return to their daily activities within one to two weeks. Although gallbladder removal may lead to minor changes in digestive function, these rarely cause significant issues.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have gallstones, it is important to seek surgical consultation as soon as possible. Contact me to schedule a consultation, and together we will determine the treatment option that best suits your needs.
The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its primary function is to store bile and release it into the duodenum when needed for fat digestion.
What is Cholecystectomy?
Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, typically performed as the definitive treatment for conditions such as gallstones, cholecystitis, polyps, or complications caused by bile duct obstruction.
Laparoscopic vs. Open Cholecystectomy:
- Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:
- Performed through several small incisions in the abdominal wall.
- Conducted under camera guidance, ensuring maximum precision.
- Enables a rapid recovery and discharge, often within a day or two.
- Open Cholecystectomy:
- Involves a larger incision.
- Requires a longer hospital stay, causes more pain, and results in a longer recovery period.
Your doctor may recommend cholecystectomy if you exhibit signs of conditions such as:
- Choledocholithiasis: Stones in the bile ducts.
- Cholelithiasis: Gallstones in the gallbladder causing symptoms.
- Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder due to a blocked bile duct.
- Gallbladder Polyps: Especially when there is a suspicion of malignancy.
- Pancreatitis: Caused by bile duct obstruction due to stones.
Although cholecystectomy is generally safe in experienced hands, potential risks include:
- Injury to the bile ducts.
- Bleeding and infection.
- Damage to nearby organs.
- Complications related to anesthesia.
After the surgery, most patients experience significant pain relief and return to their daily activities within one to two weeks. Although gallbladder removal may lead to minor changes in digestive function, these rarely cause significant issues.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have gallstones, it is important to seek surgical consultation as soon as possible. Contact me to schedule a consultation, and together we will determine the treatment option that best suits your needs.