Preparation for Gallbladder Removal

Gallbladder removal, or cholecystectomy, is a surgical procedure conducted all over the world. It may be necessary if you have persistent digestive problems or if you continually get gallstones. The most common removal method is laparoscopic. A small tube with a scope at its end is inserted through the navel to facilitate removal. Regardless of the reason for the surgery, you need to be prepared if you are having your gallbladder removed.

Pre-Registration

• If you are undergoing the surgery, be sure to contact your insurance company to verify that your surgery will be covered and to ensure that the hospital and your surgeon belong to the right network.
  During pre-registration at your hospital, you will be required to provide personal and insurance information. Hospital personnel will guide you through the necessary documents and paperwork.

Weeks Before the Surgery

• Carefully plan your actions prior to surgery and during recovery. Give yourself ample time to rest before and after, and find family and friends who can assist you with your everyday activities, especially while you are recovering.
  Religiously follow your doctor's instructions, especially if you are a smoker. Smokers heal at a much slower rate than nonsmokers. If you are a smoker, quit for at least the two weeks leading to surgery. Six to eight weeks before surgery is recommended. By quitting, you not only reduce your risk of having breathing problems during the operation, but also help speed the healing of your incisions.
  Preoperative preparations will include many medical tests, such as chest X-rays, blood tests or an EKG, depending on your condition.
  After your surgeon walks you through the ins and outs of the procedure, you will provide your written consent allowing the surgery to take place.

Days Before the Surgery

• Your doctor may advise you to fast before your surgery. He may even request that you use a colonic-irrigation method or enema to empty your colon before the surgery. You may also be required to eat a liquid diet one or several days before your surgery. From midnight until the morning of your surgery, do not eat or drink anything, not even water, depending on your doctor's advice.
  If you need pain-relieving medication during the week before your surgery, opt for acetaminophens instead of aspirin, naproxen or ibuprofen. This will minimize the risk of excessive bleeding during your surgery. Always consult your doctor regarding medications you are taking or have taken before the operation.