Name of the Procedure:

Cholecystectomy
Common Names: Gallbladder Removal, Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy, Open Cholecystectomy

Summary

A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile produced by the liver. The procedure is commonly performed using minimally invasive techniques but can also be done through a larger open incision.

Purpose

Cholecystectomy is typically performed to treat gallbladder problems such as gallstones, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), or gallstone pancreatitis. The goal is to relieve pain, prevent complications, and improve the patient's quality of life.

Indications

• Persistent gallbladder pain (biliary colic)
• Gallstones causing blockage and infection
• Acute or chronic cholecystitis
• Gallbladder polyps
• Gallstone pancreatitis

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 6 hours before surgery
• Adjusting or temporarily discontinuing certain medications as advised by the doctor
• Blood tests, imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scan to assess gallbladder condition

Procedure Description

1. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:
   • Small incisions are made in the abdomen.
   • A laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) and surgical instruments are inserted through the incisions.
   • The gallbladder is detached and removed.
   • Incisions are closed with sutures or staples.
2. Open Cholecystectomy:
   • A larger incision is made in the abdomen.
   • The surgeon directly visualizes and removes the gallbladder.
   • The incision is closed with sutures or staples.

Anesthesia: General anesthesia is used, rendering the patient unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.

Duration

Typically, the procedure takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or outpatient surgical center.

Personnel

• Surgeon
• Anesthesiologist
• Surgical nurses
• Operating room staff

Risks and Complications

• Common: Infection, bleeding, bile leakage
• Rare: Injury to surrounding organs (e.g., bile ducts, intestines), blood clots, adverse reaction to anesthesia

Benefits

• Relief from gallbladder-related pain and symptoms
• Prevention of gallstone complications
• Improved digestion and overall well-being

Recovery

• Post-procedure care includes monitoring and pain management.
• Most patients can go home the same day or after an overnight stay.
• Return to normal activities typically occurs within 1 to 2 weeks for laparoscopic surgery, longer for open surgery.
• Follow-up appointments to monitor recovery and removal of any stitches or staples.

Alternatives

• Non-surgical treatments: Medications to dissolve gallstones (less effective and slower)
• Watchful waiting: Suitable for asymptomatic gallstones
• Endoscopic procedures for stone removal (ERCP)

Patient Experience

• During: General anesthesia ensures the patient feels no pain.
• After: Patients may experience mild pain or discomfort at the incision sites, managed with pain medication.
• Recovery involves gradually resuming normal activities, with possible dietary adjustments.