Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal) Procedure

Overview

Cholecystectomy is the surgical procedure for removing the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ located just below the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, which helps the body digest fat. Many people need this surgery due to problems such as gallstones or inflammation.

Surgeons usually perform cholecystectomies with the laparoscopic method. In this approach, the surgeon makes several small incisions and uses special tools, including a tiny camera, to see and remove the gallbladder. Recovery is usually quicker with this method, and patients often return home the same day.

The open surgery method requires a larger single incision. Surgeons use this option if there are complications or if the laparoscopic method isn’t suitable. Open surgery typically means a longer hospital stay and recovery. There are two main types of gallbladder surgery:

Type	Description	Hospital Stay
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy	Uses small cuts and a camera	Usually same day
Open cholecystectomy	Uses one large cut	Few days

Reasons for Gallbladder Removal

Doctors mainly recommend a cholecystectomy when gallstones block the flow of bile and cause pain or other symptoms. Some key reasons for this surgery include:

Gallstones that create pain in the abdomen.
Blockage in the bile duct from stones.
Inflammation of the gallbladder.
Large polyps that could become cancerous.
Inflammation of the pancreas related to stones.
Signs of gallbladder cancer.

Doctors aim to ease pain, stop problems with digestion or bile flow, and prevent health issues caused by gallstones or potential cancer.

Possible Complications

Common risks after gallbladder removal include:

Bleeding
Infections
Bile duct injury (damage to bile ducts or the common bile duct)
Bile leak
Injury to nearby organs (such as the liver or small intestine)
Complications from anesthesia (for example, blood clots or pneumonia)

Some people may also develop jaundice or inflammation. Occasionally, a stent may be needed if a bile duct issue occurs. The overall risk can depend on a person’s health and the reason for surgery.

Getting Ready for Surgery

Diet and Medication Steps

Doctors usually tell patients not to eat or drink the night before their operation. It is important to avoid food or drinks for at least four hours before arriving at the hospital.

Patients should talk with the healthcare team about all regular medications and supplements, as some medicines may be stopped to lower the risk of bleeding. A small sip of water might be allowed with essential medicines, but follow the team’s advice closely.

What to Bring and Wear

Most people return home the same day, but it is wise to be prepared for a possible overnight stay. Pack a few personal items, such as a toothbrush, a book, and comfortable clothes. If the doctor plans to do tests like an ultrasound or x-ray, choose loose clothing that is easy to remove.

Safety and Support Steps

Arrange for a friend or family member to take you to and from the hospital. After surgery, it is safer to have someone stay nearby for the first night in case help is needed.

What You Can Expect

The surgical team gives patients general anesthesia before the gallbladder removal starts, so they are not awake or able to feel pain. Staff give medicine through a vein and place a tube into the throat to help with breathing. The healthcare team prepares the patient, and the surgeon decides to use either a laparoscopic or open surgical method.

How the Surgery Is Done

There are two main types of gallbladder surgery:

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

The surgeon makes a few small cuts in the belly area.
A slim tube with a camera, called a scope, goes in through one cut.
Instruments for surgery go through the other cuts.
The camera sends images to a screen, so the surgeon can see inside the body.
Sometimes, imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound help check for gallstones or other issues.
Carbon dioxide gas creates space inside the belly for better viewing and movement.
If problems come up, or if the surgeon cannot see well, the surgery may switch to the open method.

Open Cholecystectomy

The surgeon makes a single cut, around 6 inches long, below the ribs on the right.
Muscle and tissue are moved to one side to reach the gallbladder and liver.
The surgeon removes the gallbladder with regular surgical tools.

Both surgeries usually last between one and two hours.

Type of Surgery	Number of Incisions	Tools Used	Typical Time
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy	3-4 small cuts	Camera, small tools	1-2 hours
Open Cholecystectomy	1 large cut	Regular surgical tools	1-2 hours

What Happens After Surgery

Recovery from Laparoscopic Surgery

Most patients go to a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. They may go home the same day or stay one night in the hospital. Patients usually can leave after they eat, drink, and walk without serious pain. Most people can get back to normal activities in about a week.

Recovery from Open Surgery

Patients move from the recovery area to a hospital room and typically stay 2 to 3 days. At home, it can take 4 to 6 weeks to fully recover and get back to normal activities.

After both surgeries, patients can feel tired and sore. Swelling or discomfort in the belly area is common for a few days. The hospital team checks for problems and gives advice on what to do next.

Outcomes

A cholecystectomy often brings relief from the pain and discomfort of gallstones. For most patients, removing the gallbladder stops gallstones from forming again, since diet changes alone usually cannot prevent them.

Many people do not face digestive issues after the operation. Since the gallbladder is not required for healthy digestion, most can eat as they did before. Some may notice temporary loose stools, but this often improves in time.

Return to Daily Activities

Type of Surgery	Typical Recovery Time
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy	1–2 weeks
Open cholecystectomy	Several weeks

Any new bowel symptoms or changes should be discussed with a healthcare provider.