What Are the Benefits of Gallbladder Surgery?

The gallbladder is an organ that holds bile produced by the liver. It aids in digestion and is a nonessential organ that can be removed through surgery if it becomes a source of problems.

Causes

• People may need to have a cholecystectomy (gallbladder surgery) performed because of gallstones, swelling, or infection of the gallbladder.

Types

• There are two types of gallbladder surgery: laparoscopic and open. Laparoscopic surgery involves removing the gallbladder through four small incisions; with open surgery the gallbladder is removed through a 4 to 7 inch incision.

Benefits

• Removing the gallbladder is beneficial because it stops pain caused by swelling of the gallbladder and gallstones and prevents the gallbladder from bursting, which can be fatal.

Effects

• Some people experience diarrhea after having the gallbladder removed because of the increase in bile, but this usually goes away with time.

Warning

• According to Mayo Clinic, you should go to the doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms: intense abdominal pain, high fever, or yellowing of the skin.