Risks of Gallbladder Surgery

The gallbladder is an organ inside the body that is responsible for storing bile. If gallbladder cancer or gallstones occur, the organ must be removed through surgery. As with any surgery, some risks are involved.

Diarrhea

• Many individuals experience diarrhea after having gallbladder surgery. Since the gallbladder is no longer there to store the bile, a large amount of the bile moves into the large intestine, acting as a laxative. The diarrhea will eventually go away with time.

Injury to the Bile Ducts

• Gallbladder surgery can sometimes cause injury to the bile ducts. If this happens, bile may begin leaking from the ducts and cause a painful infection. Additional surgery may be required if this occurs.

Internal Bleeding

• Internal bleeding is rare, but it can occur. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, bleeding occurs in 2 percent of all gallbladder surgeries. The bleeding is treated by flushing the infected area with epinephrine.

Pancreatitis

• Gallbladder surgery can cause pancreatitis, which is the inflammation of the pancreas. Some of the symptoms of pancreatitis are nausea, fever, jaundice and pain.

Negative Anesthesia Reactions

• Some patients undergoing gallbladder surgery may experience bad reactions to the anesthesia used. Some may experience breathing problems, heart problems or blood clots.