The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located just below the liver in the upper right side of the abdomen. Its primary function is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver, and release it into the digestive system to help break down fats.

In some cases, the gallbladder may become inflamed or develop gallstones, necessitating its surgical removal. This procedure is generally safe and does not usually result in serious complications, as the liver continues to produce bile and deliver it directly to the intestines without the need for storage. (1)

Indications

Gallbladder removal surgery is most commonly performed to treat gallstones and their related complications. Specific conditions that may require this procedure include: (1)

• Symptomatic gallstones in the gallbladder or gallstones in the bile duct.
• Gallbladder inflammation.
• Polyps or benign tumors in the gallbladder that have the potential to become cancerous.
• Pancreatitis caused by gallstones.
• Suspected gallbladder cancer.

Preparation

Preparation steps for the procedure includes the following: (2)

• Fasting: You will need to fast for several hours, typically starting at midnight before surgery or as directed by your doctor. This ensures an empty stomach for general anesthesia.

• Informing Your Doctor About Medications and Supplements: Your doctor may ask you to temporarily stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding during surgery. Be sure to provide a complete list of any medications or supplements you are using.

Surgery Steps

There are two main techniques for gallbladder removal: (3)

Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal

This is the most common method, involving minimal surgical intervention and faster recovery with fewer potential complications.

Steps of the procedure include:

• A small incision (2–3 cm) is made near the belly button, along with 2–3 additional small incisions (1 cm each) on the right side of the abdomen.
• A tube is inserted to pump gas into the abdomen, inflating it to improve visibility and access.
• A laparoscope (camera) and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions to remove the gallbladder.
• The gas is released, and the incisions are closed with sutures.
• Patients undergoing this procedure can often leave the hospital on the same day or the following day.

Open Surgery

In some cases, doctors may opt for open surgery, especially when:

• There are significant abdominal adhesions from previous surgeries.
• It is difficult to access or clearly view the gallbladder using laparoscopic methods.

It is important to discuss your surgical options with your doctor to determine the best approach for your case. In some laparoscopic procedures, the surgeon may switch to open surgery during the operation if needed.

Recovery

The recovery period depends on the type of surgery performed:

• Laparoscopic Surgery: Recovery typically takes a few days. Most people can resume normal daily activities and office work within a week. Strenuous physical activities may require slightly more time.
• Open Surgery: Recovery usually requires a hospital stay of 2–5 days. Returning to normal daily activities typically takes 2–4 weeks, and full recovery for physical activities may take 6–8 weeks. (3)

Do You Need to Change Your Diet After Surgery?

There is no need for a specific diet after gallbladder removal; you can return to your normal diet after the surgery. However, some patients experience diarrhea as a temporary side effect for weeks or months following the procedure. In such cases, it is recommended to reduce high-fat foods for at least a week after the surgery to help the digestive system adjust and minimize diarrhea and digestive discomfort. (1)

Risks and Side Effects

Gallbladder removal is generally safe, with serious complications being rare. Minor symptoms in the days following surgery may include: (4)

• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Gas and bloating.
• Nausea.

In rare cases, more severe complications may occur, requiring medical attention. Consult your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms after surgery:

• Severe pain.
• A fever above 38°C (100.4°F).
• Swelling, discharge, or pus at the surgical site.
• Persistent nausea and vomiting.
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Dark-colored urine and pale stools.

If you are experiencing gallbladder-related symptoms or have been advised to undergo gallbladder removal surgery, our General Surgery team is here to guide you every step of the way.  Book your appointment now with our expert doctors!

References

1. Mayo Clinic - Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
2. healthdirect - Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
3. NHS - Gallbladder removal - What happens
4. Abdominal Radiology - Post-operative complications of cholecystectomy: what the radiologist needs to know