Gallbladder Removal (Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy)

Overview

The gallbladder is not essential for digestion, so it can be removed safely when gallstones cause problems. In a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgeon removes the gallbladder through a few small cuts using a camera and slender instruments.

Why it is done

• Repeated pain from gallstones (biliary colic)
• Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis)
• Gallstones that have caused pancreatitis or blocked the bile duct

Before the surgery

You will have an ultrasound, blood tests and an anaesthesia assessment. You will be asked not to eat for several hours before surgery.

During the surgery

The operation is done under general anaesthesia and usually takes about an hour. Occasionally, the surgeon may need to change to open surgery for safety.

After the surgery

Many patients go home the same day or the next day and return to normal activities within one to two weeks. You can eat normally afterwards, although some people find fatty foods harder to digest for a while.

Risks

Possible risks include bleeding, infection, bile leakage and, rarely, injury to the bile duct or bowel.

At KIH

KIH's general and laparoscopic surgery service offers gallbladder removal, including by keyhole surgery.