Gallbladder Stone Surgery in Delhi, India

Gallbladder stone surgery/Cholecystectomy is a surgery for gallbladder removal. Cholecystectomy is commonly performed when a patient experiences issues related to gallstones, which are hardened deposits that can form in the gallbladder. Gallstones can cause pain, inflammation, infection, or blockage of the bile ducts. If these issues become severe or recurrent, a cholecystectomy may be recommended.

There are three main types of gallbladder stone surgery, including

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: This is the most common type of surgery used to remove the gallbladder. It involves making small incisions in the abdomen to insert a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube) and surgical instruments to remove the gallbladder.
• Open Cholecystectomy: In this surgery, a larger incision is made in the abdomen to remove the gallbladder. This type of surgery is used in rare cases when the laparoscopic approach is not feasible.
• Robotic Cholecystectomy: This is a minimally invasive surgery that uses robotic arms to remove the gallbladder. This type of surgery offers greater precision and control than traditional laparoscopic surgery, resulting in less pain and faster recovery times.
• Endoscopic Treatment: It utilises an endoscope to remove gallstones from the bile ducts.

Pre-surgery instructions for Cholecystectomy:

Follow the following instructions to make sure the surgery is completed successfully.

• Inform your doctor about all your medical conditions and medications that you are currently taking.
• Stop taking blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements or any other medications as advised by the doctor.
• Avoid having anything for at least 8 hours before the surgery.
• Take a shower or bath before coming to the hospital.
• Wear comfortable clothes and remove any jewellery or accessories.

Post-surgery instructions for Cholecystectomy:

The patient needs to follow a few instructions to prevent complications after surgery.

• Follow the doctor's prescribed medication regimen and take antibiotics as prescribed.
• Keep the wound clean and dry. Do not touch the incision site.
• Avoid strenuous activities for at least a week after surgery.
• Resume a normal diet slowly, starting with clear liquids and gradually progressing to solid foods.
• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Diet After Gallbladder Stone Surgery:

After gallbladder stone surgery, it is important to follow a specific diet plan. In the first few days after surgery, it is best to stick to a clear liquid diet followed by a full liquid diet. Once you start to feel better, you can gradually add in soft, low-fat foods like boiled eggs, mashed potatoes, and steamed vegetables. Avoid fatty, fried, and spicy foods, as these can cause discomfort and digestive problems. You should also avoid alcohol and caffeine for a few weeks after surgery.

What are the risks involved in Gallbladder Surgery?

While gallbladder surgery is generally safe, there are some risks involved. These can include bleeding, infection, damage to nearby organs, and problems with anaesthesia. In rare cases, there may also be complications like bile leakage or difficulty digesting fatty foods. However, these risks are generally low, and most people recover from surgery without any major problems.

When Do You Need to See a Doctor?

If you have severe abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), you should see a doctor right away. These can be signs of serious complications like a bile duct blockage or infection. You should also seek medical attention if you have ongoing digestive problems after gallbladder surgery, such as diarrhoea, nausea, or vomiting.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Is gallbladder surgery a major surgery?
  Gallbladder surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, is considered a major surgery. It involves the removal of the gallbladder. The surgery can be done either laparoscopically, open or Robotic surgery.
• How serious is gallbladder surgery?
  Gallbladder surgery is a serious surgery that carries some risks, like any surgery. Some possible risks of gallbladder surgery include bleeding, infection, bile duct injury, and bowel injury. Additionally, some people may experience complications like pneumonia or blood clots after surgery. However, the risks associated with gallbladder surgery are relatively low, and most people do not experience any complications.
• How long does it take to recover from gallbladder surgery?
  Recovery time after gallbladder surgery varies from person to person, but most people can expect to return to their normal activities within a few weeks. After laparoscopic surgery, most people can go home the same day or the day after and can return to work within a week or two. After open surgery, people typically spend a few days in the hospital and take longer to return to work, usually two to four weeks.
• What are the side effects of having your gallbladder removed?
  The most common side effect of having your gallbladder removed is diarrhoea. This is because the gallbladder is responsible for storing bile, which helps to break down fats in your food. Without a gallbladder, bile may flow more continuously into your intestines, leading to loose or watery stools. Some people also experience mild digestive issues like bloating, gas, or stomach pain after gallbladder surgery. In rare cases, people may experience more serious complications like bleeding, infection, or bile duct injury.
• What are the first signs of an unhealthy gallbladder?
  The first signs of an unhealthy gallbladder may include abdominal pain after fatty meals, especially in the upper right side, that may radiate to your back or right shoulder blade. 
• What should I not eat with no gallbladder?
  After gallbladder surgery, it is important to avoid high-fat, greasy, or fried foods, as these can trigger digestive symptoms like diarrhoea or bloating.

Review

Reviewed by Dr. Bachan Singh Barthwal, Senior Director, Laparoscopic & Robotic General Surgery.