What is Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal surgery (Cholecystectomy) ?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is minimally invasive surgery to remove the gallbladder. It helps people when gallstones cause inflammation, pain or infection. The surgery involves a few small incisions, and most people go home the same day and soon return to normal activities
Why Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is done ?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy helps people with gallstones that are causing pain and infection.
Gallstones are crystals that form in the gallbladder. They can block the flow of bile out of the gallbladder into your digestive system. This road block causes cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder). Gallstones can also lead to jaundice and pancreatitis (inflammation of pancreas) if not treated in timely manner.
How Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is done ?
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy takes about an hour or two. Few small incisions are made on the abdomen and thin, hollow tubes are placed through those incisions. A laparoscope and other surgical tools are placed into the tubes.
Carbon dioxide is pumped into the abdomen. This step inflates the surgical area and makes it easier to see inside. Using the special tools, the gallbladder is detached from the rest of the body and removed. The incisions are then closed with stitches, surgical clips or surgical glue.
If any complications occur during laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgeon may decide to use an open cholecystectomy instead. That procedure involves a larger incision.
Post operative recovery
The patient can usually go home the same day of laparoscopic cholecystectomy or the next day. With an open cholecystectomy, the patient may have to stay in the hospital for few days.
What should I do to take care of myself after gallbladder removal?
After surgery, do the following to help yourself recover:
- Avoid lifting heavy things.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat foods high in fiber to help your bowel movements.
- Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about taking care of your wounds and taking medications.
- Slowly increase your activity.
- Walk a little bit every day to prevent blood clots.
When can I go back to normal activities after laparoscopic cholecystectomy?
You usually can return to work and other daily activities in about a week, as long as they don’t involve lifting. You may need a week or two before you are physically active
Advantages of laproscopic cholecystectomy
The laparoscopic procedure has several benefits:
- Less pain
- Lower risk of complications
- Lesser Hospital stay
- Quicker recovery and return to regular activities
- Smaller wounds and scars