What is the Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath your liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats.
Why Remove the Gallbladder?
Common reasons include:
- Gallstones causing pain or inflammation
- Chronic gallbladder inflammation
- Gallbladder polyps
- Acute cholecystitis (severe inflammation)
Types of Surgery
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
- Minimally invasive procedure
- 3-4 small incisions
- Camera-guided surgery
- Usually outpatient procedure
Open Cholecystectomy
- Larger single incision
- Required in complex cases
- Longer hospital stay
Before Surgery
- Physical examination and medical history review
- Blood tests and imaging
- Fasting for 8 hours before procedure
- Discussion of medications to stop/continue
Recovery Period
Short-term Recovery
- 1-2 weeks for laparoscopic surgery
- 4-6 weeks for open surgery
- Initial pain and discomfort
- Gradual return to activities
Long-term Adjustments
- Most patients return to normal diet
- Some may experience temporary digestive changes
- No long-term dietary restrictions typically needed
Potential Risks
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Bile leak
- Injury to nearby structures
- Anesthesia-related risks
Life Without a Gallbladder
- Body adapts well
- Bile flows directly from liver to intestine
- Most people experience no significant changes
When to Contact Your Doctor
- Severe pain
- Fever above 101°F
- Yellowing of skin/eyes
- Persistent nausea/vomiting
- Drainage from incisions
Follow-up Care
- Post-operative appointment within 2 weeks
- Incision care instructions
- Activity guidelines
- Medication management