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Gallbladder Removal

Welcome to our educational page dedicated to gallbladder removal surgery, a common procedure performed to alleviate symptoms associated with gallstones and other gallbladder-related conditions. Here, we provide comprehensive information about this surgical intervention, offering insights into its purpose, procedure, recovery, and potential outcomes through various articles, videos and other useful resources.

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Man suffering with painful gallstones before surgery

Gallbladder Removal: symptoms and side effects

Gallbladder Removal surgery is generally considered safe, and many individuals experience relief from symptoms related to gallbladder issues. However, some individuals may experience long and short-term side effects after Gallbladder Removal. It’s important to note that these effects can vary among individuals. In this blog, we’ll explore the signs and symptoms that might indicate the need for gallbladder removal surgery and the long and short-term side effects post-surgery.

Gallbladder Removal: symptoms and side effects

Gallbladder Removal surgery: what you need to know

Why is a Cholecystectomy done?

Videos

What is a Gallbladder?

What are Gallstones?

How to know if you have Gallstones

Treatment for Gallstones

Gallbladder Removal surgery

FAQs

What is Gallbladder surgery?

The surgeon will perform one of two cholecystectomy methods to remove the gallbladder. The laparoscopic method is less invasive and involves 3-4 very small incisions, whereas the open method, involves a single large incision of around 6 inches. The open procedure is only performed if a patient has other risk factors.

What are Gallstones?

Gallstones form when bile stored in the gallbladder hardens into stone-like material. Too much cholesterol, bile salts, or bilirubin (bile pigment) can cause gallstones. They can range in size and number. Most commonly, multiple small gallstones measuring about 0.5 cm will be present within the gallbladder.

How long does Gallbladder surgery take?

The length of time it takes to perform an operation depends on the surgeon and the patient. For most surgeons, a straightforward gallbladder removal will take about 60 to 90 minutes.

How long is the recovery from Gallbladder surgery?

Recovery time for gallbladder surgery differs dependent on the procedure you had. Typically, patients who have the laparoscopic cholecystectomy will have a faster recovery of 1 week whereas patients who have the open cholecystectomy will have a recovery period of around 4 to 6 weeks.

Are there any side effects of Gallbladder surgery?

Our surgical team have experience of 1000s of gallbladder removals, which has proven to be very safe. Although you are unlikely to suffer complications, all surgery carries a risk. Patients that fall into a higher risk group will have a greater chance of experiencing immediate and short term risks such as conversion to an open operation, a reaction to antibiotics, bruising, wound affects, bleeding and further complications. If you have had gallbladder surgery with Streamline, please contact us if you require medical advice.

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