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Gallbladder Removal Patient Information

The medical term for the removal of your gallbladder is cholecystectomy. Your gallbladder may need to be removed due to gallstones or a condition call biliary dyskinesia, where your gallbladder is not functioning properly.

  1. Preparation

    • Prior to your surgery, you must have blood tests, a chest x-ray, x-rays or ultrasound of your gallbladder and in some cases, you may be required to have an electrocardiogram.

    Procedure

    • The procedure is done laparoscopically when possible, by way of several small incisions to allow the surgeon to use a surgical camera and instruments for the removal.

    Hospital Stay

    • If your procedure is performed laparoscopically, you can usually go home the same day. However, if it is done by open surgery, you can expect to remain in the hospital between 2 to 6 days.

    Recovery

    • With laparoscopic surgery, you may be able to return to your normal activities in about 1 week, compared to a 6- to 8-week recovery time with conventional surgery.

    Risks

    • Risks for gallbladder surgery include infection and blood clots, as well as reactions to drugs or anesthesia that include breathing problems, nausea, heart problems and pneumonia.

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