Gallbladder Surgery (laparoscopic and open)

Gallbladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.

Causes

The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of fats, and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine (duodenum) in response to food (especially fats). Conditions that slow or obstruct the flow of bile out of the gallbladder result in gallbladder disease.

Types of gallbladder disease include:

• Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
• Cholelithiasis (gallstones)

Symptoms

• Abdominal pain that is:
  • Mild to Severe
  • Located on the right side (right upper quadrant)
  • Located in the upper middle of the abdomen (epigastric)
  • Usually decreases over 4 to 6 hours
  • Recurrent or similar pain in past
  • Occuring after meals
  • Worse during deep intake of breath
  • Radiating to back or below the right shoulder blade
  • Worse after eating or drinking fatty/greasy foods or fluids
• Nausea and vomiting
• Chills and shaking
• Fever
• Heartburn
• Abdominal fullness or gas

Treatment

In the past, open cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) was the usual procedure for uncomplicated cases. Today, a minimally-invasive technique called laproscopic cholecystectomy is most commonly used. This procedure uses smaller surgical cuts, which allows for a faster recovery. A patient may have their gallbladder removed and be discharged from the hospital on the same day.

Recovery

Returning to work/activities

• Most patients are discharged home the same day of their surgery
• On average patients return to work within a week following surgery
• It is typically recommended you refrain from heavy lifting for the first 1-2 weeks after surgery and your surgeon can provide more detailed instruction in this regard
• No driving or operating machinery while taking prescription pain medication
• If return to work notes are needed or paperwork is required please contact the office
• Please expect a longer hospital stay and recovery if you require an open procedure

Diet

• Start your diet with clear liquids the day of surgery then advance to a bland, low fat diet for several days to a week

Pain

• Typically there is a minimal to moderate amount of incisional pain after surgery
• An ice pack is recommended intermittently for 48 hours after surgery to help reduce pain and swelling
• Most patients are provided a prescription for medication to take on a short term basis to help relieve the discomfort
• If pain medication refills are needed we require you contact our office during regular business hours
• If you are prone to constipation from pain medication, it may be advised to have a stimulant-free stool softener such as colace or milk of magnesia at home

Incision/Wound Care

• A small amount of bleeding or drainage is expected in the first 24-48 hours
• Additional instructions regarding your dressings or bandages will be given after surgery
• Typically you can shower 48 hours after surgery
• No bathtubs, hot tubs or swimming are recommended for at least 2 weeks

Follow Up Care

• You will be asked to see your surgeon approximately 2 weeks following surgery or discharge
• Please contact the office and our staff will happily assist you in scheduling your appointment

Call Your Surgeon at 763.780.6699 for the Following

• Temperature greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit
• Increased pain
• Increased bleeding or drainage
• Pus-like drainage, increasing redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth at the incision site
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• If you are considering an Emergency Room visit, please call your surgeon first; we are available 24 hours a day to help direct your care