Gallstone Disease
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure used to remove the gallbladder; a small organ located beneath your liver that stores bile (fluid that helps with digestion). If you’ve been diagnosed with gallstones or other gallbladder problems, Mr Allenby-Smith may recommend this surgery to improve symptoms like pain and nausea.
What Is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is minimally invasive surgery (keyhole surgery). Unlike traditional surgery, which requires a large incision, this technique uses several small incisions in your abdomen. Through these small cuts, the surgeon inserts a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera and light) along with other surgical instruments. The camera provides a clear, magnified view of your gallbladder on a monitor, allowing the surgeon to perform the procedure with precision.
Why Is This Procedure Necessary?
You might need a laparoscopic cholecystectomy if you have gallstones, which are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. These stones can block the flow of bile and cause intense pain, infections, or even serious complications like pancreatitis. Symptoms you may experience include sharp pain in your upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and bloating, especially after eating fatty foods.
If left untreated, gallstones can lead to inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), or they can move into the bile ducts, causing more severe issues. Removing the gallbladder can prevent these complications and relieve your symptoms.
Here’s what happens during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy:
Preperation
The surgery is done under general anaesthetic, so you’ll be asleep and won’t feel any discomfort. The anaesthetist will see you before the operation and explain what is involved.
Incisions
The surgeon makes a few small incisions, usually four, in your abdomen. These are about a centimetre long.
Insertion
The laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions. The camera at the end of the laparoscope sends real-time images to a monitor, guiding the surgeon during the operation.
Removal
The surgeon uses special instruments inserted through the other incisions to carefully separate the gallbladder from the liver and other structures. Once detached, the gallbladder is removed through one of the small incisions.
Closing Incisions
After the gallbladder is removed, the incisions are closed with dissolving stitches and surgical glue. Sometimes you may have small dressings placed over the incisions.
Recovery After Surgery
Since this is a minimally invasive procedure, recovery is usually quicker and less painful than with traditional open surgery. Most patients go home the same day as the surgery.
Pain and Discomfort
You may feel some soreness around the incisions, but this typically improves within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient to manage discomfort.
Activity Level
You’ll be encouraged to walk around soon after surgery to help with blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. However, you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for about 4 weeks.
Diet
You can usually start eating a normal diet within a day or two, but it’s wise to start with light, easy-to-digest foods. Some people experience mild digestive changes, such as diarrhoea or bloating, but these often improve over time.
Follow-up
You’ll have a follow-up appointment with Mr Allenby-Smith to ensure you’re healing well. During this visit, he will check your incisions and discuss any concerns you might have.
Life After Gallbladder Removal
Most people live completely normal lives without a gallbladder. Bile will flow directly from your liver into your small intestine, which should not significantly affect digestion. If you do experience any digestive changes, they are usually temporary.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a safe and effective way to treat gallbladder problems. With this minimally invasive approach, you can expect a quicker recovery, less pain, and a faster return to your everyday activities. If you have any questions or concerns, the hospital team is there to support you through every step of the process.
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