A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the gallbladder, which is a small organ located beneath the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. When your gallbladder is diseased or causes discomfort, a general surgeon may recommend a cholecystectomy to restore your digestive health and prevent further complications.
A cholecystectomy involves the removal of the gallbladder through either a minimally invasive laparoscopic technique or a traditional open surgery. The laparoscopic approach is the most common method used in modern medicine, as it typically involves smaller incisions, reduced recovery time, and minimal scarring. In contrast, open cholecystectomy is reserved for cases involving severe inflammation, infection, or anatomical complications that make laparoscopic surgery unsafe.
During the procedure, the surgeon detaches the gallbladder from surrounding structures and removes it. The liver continues to produce bile after the surgery, which then flows directly into the small intestine. While the gallbladder helps store bile, removing it rarely affects the patient's long-term digestive health.
The most frequent reason for undergoing a cholecystectomy is gallstones. Gallstones are hardened deposits that can block the flow of bile. These stones may cause intense pain known as biliary colic, along with nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort. Other conditions that may require a cholecystectomy include:
In severe cases, untreated gallbladder disease can lead to life-threatening infections, such as sepsis or pancreatitis.
A laparoscopic cholecystectomy usually takes one to two hours. Patients can return home on the same day or after an overnight hospital stay. However, open cholecystectomy may require a longer hospital stay, depending on the complexity of the patient's condition and the overall health.
Post-surgery recovery typically involves mild abdominal discomfort, which subsides within a few days. Light physical activity is encouraged soon after surgery to promote blood circulation and boost the healing process. Dietary adjustments, such as eating smaller, low-fat meals, can also help the digestive system adapt during the recovery phase.
The recovery time from a laparoscopic cholecystectomy is about two weeks, while recovering from an open cholecystectomy takes six to eight weeks. Most people can return to their normal work routines after one or two weeks. However, those who participate in frequent physical activity may need to modify their routine until their medical provider clears them.
Most individuals experience immediate relief from gallbladder-related pain and discomfort following the surgery. The liver will continue to produce bile normally, allowing digestion to function without the gallbladder. In rare cases, some individuals may experience mild digestive changes, such as increased bowel movements, nausea, diarrhea, or difficulty digesting fatty foods. However, these symptoms typically improve over time.
A cholecystectomy remains one of the most common and successful surgical treatments for gallbladder disease. Do you think you may need a cholecystectomy in the near future? Call our Long Beach office to schedule a consultation.
Request an appointment here: https://aigsca.com or call Associates in General Surgery at (562) 362-3939 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
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