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Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal

Doctors may recommend the removal of the gallbladder if it contains gallstones or if the organ is not functioning properly, according to the National Institutes of Health. Traditional open gallbladder removal requires a large incision in the abdomen. But more commonly doctors use a laparoscopic procedure that is less invasive and involves several smaller incisions and the use of a small lighted tube that allows the surgeon to see through the use of a tiny camera to remove the organ.

  1. Preparation

    • Inform your doctor of any medications or supplements you may be taking before surgery, as you may need to stop taking them temporarily. If your doctor suggests it, you may also need to cleanse your colon before surgery.
      You should not eat or drink anything after midnight the day before your surgery, and you may have been instructed by your doctor to take certain medications leading up to your surgery date, according to the National institutes of Health.

    Procedure

    • After you are sedated with anesthesia, the surgeon will do the gallbladder removal by inserting the laparoscope into a small incision in your navel. The doctor will then be able to see your gallbladder on a television monitor and will complete the removal by inserting instruments into three other small incisions made in the right upper part of your abdomen. The gallbladder will be pulled out through one of these incisions, according to FamilyDoctor.org.

    Benefits Of Laparoscopic Surgery

    • You will be able to return to work more quickly after a laparoscopic procedure versus an open removal. The incisions are much smaller and do not require the surgeon to cut any of the abdominal muscles, and therefore scarring and soreness during recovery are much milder, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
      Plan to go home the day of or the day after your surgery, although it is possible that the surgeon may have to opt for open surgery during the procedure if there are any complications. This would require several days of recovery in the hospital.
      You will likely be prescribed pain medication, but you can expect to be back to normal function within just a few days and back to a nonstrenuous job within a week. Seek your doctor's advice about your specific profession.

    Complications

    • Complications for laparoscopic gallbladder removal can include bleeding, infection of the bile duct or damage to the intestines or blood vessels from insertion of the surgical instruments. These complications are rare, though.
      Patients who have had surgery around the gallbladder area before or who bleed easily may not be suitable for this type of surgery and may need the open procedure. Your doctor will be able to tell you if you are a good candidate.

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