Post Gall Bladder Surgery Complications

Gallbladder removal surgery, also known as a cholecystectomy, is one of the most common general surgery procedures performed in the United States, according to the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. Gallbladder removal is typically indicated when a patient is experiencing gallstones, which can cause pain, infection, vomiting, nausea and fever. Although the risks of complications after gallbladder surgery are typically low, every surgery is accompanied by risks.

How Is the Procedure Performed?

• Gallbladder removal can be performed via the open surgical method, which requires making a large incision in the abdomen, or the laparoscopic method, which involves making small incisions and inserting small instruments into the body. In addition to removing the gallbladder, the surgeon also removes any remaining gall stones from the bile duct. If the duct contains numerous gall stones, the surgeon may have to switch to an open procedure to better access the stones.

What Can I Expect Following Surgery?

• Gallbladder surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis or require a short stay in the hospital. It is normal for patients to experience pain as well as nausea and vomiting, which may be due to side effects from anesthesia. Patients who undergo a laparoscopic procedure typically return to work within seven days, while open surgery patients often return in four to six weeks.

Common Complications

• Some of the most common complications associated with the surgery include bleeding and infection, which can cause symptoms such as fever, redness at the surgical site, unexplained fatigue or abdominal swelling. Other complications that can occur include pneumonia, blood clots or heart problems.

Additional Complications

• Because the surgery requires the insertion of surgical instruments into the body, it is possible that injury to the bile duct, intestines or major blood vessels can occur. Although these complications are rare, they can require surgical repair to prevent the risk of further infection due to bile leakage.

When to See Your Doctor

• Post-gallbladder surgery patients should see their doctor is they begin to experience the following symptoms: fever higher than 100 degrees F, bleeding, abdominal pain or swelling, persistent nausea, inability to keep down foods or drinks, pus drainage from the surgical site or redness surrounding the incisions.