Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder) Surgery
The definitive treatment for symptoms of gallstones or for the prevention of recurrent passage of stones into the bile duct is surgical removal of the gallbladder.
Unfortunately, some individuals suffer from gallbladder related medical conditions which frequently present with abdominal pain following meals that may require potential surgery.
Today, Robotic/Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Surgery is the preferred method. The procedure can be performed electively as an outpatient (same day procedure) and the overall recovery time is approximately 2 weeks.
A cholecystectomy is most commonly performed to treat gallstones and the complications they cause.
Gallbladder Conditions
Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): For unclear reasons, substances in bile can crystallize in the gallbladder, forming gallstones. Common and usually harmless, gallstones can sometimes cause pain, nausea, or inflammation (aka Biliary Colic).
Cholecystitis: Infection of the gallbladder, often due to a gallstone in the gallbladder. Cholecystitis causes severe pain and fever, and frequently requires surgery when infection occurs or recurs.
Choledocholithiasis: A gallstone becomes lodged in the duct that drains the liver resulting in yellowing of the skin (jaundice) and frequently abdominal pain. If fevers are present this is a serious condition known as cholangitis and patients should seek immediate medical evaluation.
Gallstone pancreatitis: A gallstone becomes lodged in the ducts that drain the pancreas resulting in inflammation of the pancreas. This condition is serious a requires urgent treatment.
