Understanding Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy): What to Expect

The medical term for the removal of your gallbladder is cholecystectomy. Your gallbladder may need to be removed due to gallstones or a condition call biliary dyskinesia, where your gallbladder is not functioning properly.

Preparation

• Prior to your surgery, you must have blood tests, a chest x-ray, x-rays or ultrasound of your gallbladder and in some cases, you may be required to have an electrocardiogram.

Procedure

• The procedure is done laparoscopically when possible, by way of several small incisions to allow the surgeon to use a surgical camera and instruments for the removal.

Hospital Stay

• If your procedure is performed laparoscopically, you can usually go home the same day. However, if it is done by open surgery, you can expect to remain in the hospital between 2 to 6 days.

Recovery

• With laparoscopic surgery, you may be able to return to your normal activities in about 1 week, compared to a 6- to 8-week recovery time with conventional surgery.

Risks

• Risks for gallbladder surgery include infection and blood clots, as well as reactions to drugs or anesthesia that include breathing problems, nausea, heart problems and pneumonia.