Gallbladder Surgery - Cholecystectomy

What is gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy)?

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, also known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is a common minimally invasive procedure performed to remove the gallbladder. This approach is preferred for its faster recovery time and reduced post-operative pain compared to open surgery.

When is cholecystectomy recommended?

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located just below the liver. Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can develop in the gallbladder.

 Gallstones may cause symptoms or conditions such as:

• Cholecystitis: inflammation and/ or infection of the gallbladder.
• Biliary colic: severe pain caused by gallstones in the gallbladder.
• Jaundice: caused by blockage of the bile duct by gallstones.
• Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas, caused by blockage of the pancreatic duct by gallstones.

Cholecystectomy is typically recommended for patients with gallstones that cause pain, infection, or which block bile ducts.

Preparing for cholecystectomy

Patients should inform their doctor if they are diabetic or taking any medication that might thin the blood (including aspirin) as blood thinners will need to be stopped before the procedure.

Patients will be required to fast for a few hours before the surgery and will receive specific instructions beforehand.

Patients will be asked to sign a consent form after discussing the procedure, its risks, and the benefits with the doctor.

What does the procedure involve?

When patients arrive at the hospital, they will meet a nurse, their anaesthetist and surgeon.

The surgeon makes 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) to view the inside of the abdomen. Special surgical instruments are used to remove the gallbladder through one of the small incisions. This minimally invasive approach typically results in a quicker recovery, less pain, and smaller scars. The skin is closed with an absorbable sub-cuticular or “invisible” stitch so that there is no need for stitch removal afterwards. The operation itself takes around 1-2 hours to complete. Patients are usually able to go home later the same day. In some cases, an overnight stay may be required.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Gallbladder removal surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgery, there are risks involved. Potential complications include:

• Infection at the incision sites
• Bile leakage into the abdomen
• Injury to the bile ducts, liver, or intestines
• Blood clots or bleeding
• Post-cholecystectomy syndrome (persistent digestive symptoms)

The surgeon will discuss all these risks before the procedure.

After the procedure

We encourage all patients to stay active following surgery. Walking regularly is the most useful exercise after the operation. Following the operation patients should avoid heavy lifting for four to six weeks.

After about 4 weeks patients should be able to increase their exercise activities. Starting with gentle rhythmic exercises such as cycling or cross-training and gradually building up to their normal exercise regimen. Provided there are no wound problems swimming can also be good at this stage. Patients should be able to return to work within one or two weeks but if their job involves any strenuous activities, they may need to be off work for longer or carry out only light duties. Patients can usually drive again after one to two weeks but the surgeon will provide specific instructions regarding this. 

Diet after cholecystectomy

The gallbladder’s function is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, which helps to digest fats. However, the gallbladder is not essential for digestion, and people can live without it and eat a normal diet after surgery. Some patients may experience temporary changes in digestion, such as bloating, diarrhoea, or indigestion, particularly when eating fatty or spicy foods. These symptoms usually improve over time. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and gradually reintroducing certain foods can help with the adjustment.