Gallbladder Surgery – Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is one of the most common general surgical procedures performed worldwide. The surgery involving removal of the gallbladder which usually takes half an hour. It is performed laparoscopically (keyhole). The aim of the operation is to remove the gallbladder (which contains the stones).

The cholangiogram (special xray) part is routinely performed during the operation where contrast is injected into the cystic duct (tube leading out of the gallbladder). It aims to assess the biliary system to ensure no stones remain in the system.

Post op recovery and living life without a gallbladder

Most patients will remain in hospital 1-2 days. Patients generally recover very well and fast from this surgery. As soon as you wake up, you will be permitted to drink and eat.

Short term follow-up with your surgeon is important to ensure that symptoms have resolved and wounds have healed. Life without a gallbladder does not appear to be an issue in the long term and will generally not affect your diet going forward. The body still makes bile and it will be excreted to the small bowels to help with digestion of fat.

Gallbladder surgery complications

Cholecystectomy is a safe operation. Never-the-less, as with any surgery, rare complications of bleeding, wound infection, anaesthetic related issues and blood clots can occur.

Gallbladder surgery specific complications:

• Bile duct injury (0.25%)
• Bile leak
• Injury to surrounding solid organs (liver) or bowel
• Occasionally unexpected finding of bile duct stones requiring additional endoscopic therapy