Gallbladder Surgery
LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY
What is gallbladder surgery?
The liver produces bile, which helps digest fats in foods—the gallbladder is a reservoir for about 10% of bile.
Gallstones are very common, but can cause serious complications, such as cholangitis (infection of the bile duct) and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).
When they start causing problems, your gallbladder needs to be removed via surgery.
HOW IS IT PERFORMED?
A Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that removes the gallbladder via a keyhole operation (laparoscopically). This is done using a camera and long tools that enter the abdomen via 4 small incisions.
Surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, taking around 30-60 minutes, with patients asleep through the entire procedure. Most patients either go home the same day, or after an overnight admission.
Who is suitable for gallbladder surgery?
Gallstones are most often the cause of Gallbladder issues. These are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, and can sometimes get into the bile duct (that connects the gallbladder with your intestines).
Symptoms of Gallbladder issues can include:
- Sharp pain in your abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Indigestion
- Fever
- Jaundice (eyes and skin that look yellow)
If you are experiencing these symptoms, your doctor or specialist may refer you to Dr Jesse Beumer or Dr George Balalis at our rooms to discuss your options, such as gallbladder removal.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS OR SIDE EFFECTS?
Side effects of Gallbladder Surgery include:
- Bile leakage
- Haemorrhage
- Sub-hepatic abscess
- Retained bile duct stones
- Damage to the bile duct, however the incidence of this is quite low.
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Diagram
An illustrated view of what gallbladder surgery looks like.
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