Gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy)

Cholecystectomy is a medical procedure in which the gallbladder is removed. It is performed for diseases of the gallbladder, which is most often due to lithiasis (the presence of stones in the gallbladder). It can be manifested by vague digestive discomfort (heaviness after eating, bloating, burping…) or ‘gallbladder attacks”, in which severe colicky pains occur, most often in the right lower ribs, which typically shooting up under the right shoulder blade.

Cholecystectomy is always performed under general anaesthesia, in the vast majority of cases laparoscopically. Of the four small incisions on the abdomen, the surgeon uses special instruments to close the vascular of the gallbladder and the connection of the gallbladder to the main biliary and then removes the entire gallbladder. The removal of the stones alone is not done. The whole operation takes time in an uncomplicated course about 30 minutes. Hospitalization in our clinic takes up to 24 hours. If all is well, the patient is discharged the next morning after the procedure. Pain after surgery is usually mild and can be well controlled with common painkillers. On the 10th day after surgery the stitches are removed. Most patients are able to return to normal life within 1-2 weeks.

Without surgery, gallbladder problems usually get progressively worse. The presence of stones represents risk of developing other complications such as acute cholecystitis or acute inflammation of the gallbladder pancreatitis (pancreatitis). Pancreatitis is one of the most serious complications of lithiasis and occurs when stones travel from the gallbladder and block the common duct of the gallbladder and pancreas. In the case of lithiasis and its complications, the only definitive treatment is cholecystectomy. “Dissolving stones” is not commonly recommended. This treatment can only be considered in patients whose medical condition does not allow surgery.

We understand that surgery can be a very stressful affair. However, a cholecystectomy is a procedure that can significantly help and relieve you of your discomfort and the risks that come with the disease associated with gallbladder disease. If you are unsure, you can contact our doctors who will provide you with all the necessary information.