Gallbladder removal, also known as cholecystectomy, is a common surgical procedure performed to relieve symptoms associated with gallbladder diseases. The gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ located below the liver, plays an important role in the digestive process by storing and releasing bile, which helps digest fats. More specifically, when foods containing fat enter the digestive system, the gallbladder contracts, releasing stored bile into the duodenum. Bile emulsifies fats, breaking them down into smaller particles, which allows digestive enzymes to work more efficiently. Although it serves an important purpose, it is not a vital organ and individuals can easily live without it. Gallbladder removal or cholecystectomy is a commonly performed surgical procedure performed to treat symptoms caused by gallbladder diseases.
Common diseases treated with gallbladder removal
Several conditions of the gallbladder may require removal of the organ. The most common indication for gallbladder removal is the presence of symptomatic cholelithiasis, i.e. gallstones. Gallstones are hardened deposits that form inside the gallbladder. They can lead to pain, inflammation and blockage in the bile ducts, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Once they cause symptoms, it is quite difficult to get rid of the condition and its symptoms. Therefore, the solution is surgery.
Another condition often treated with gallbladder removal is cholecystitis. Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, often resulting from gallstones. It can be acute or chronic and can lead to severe abdominal pain and infection if not treated promptly. Gallbladder diseases that may require surgical repair include biliary dyskinesia. It is a functional disorder of the movement of bile from the gallbladder and occurs when the gallbladder is unable to contract effectively, leading to pain and other digestive problems.
Indications for cholecystectomy
Gallbladder removal is indicated when these disorders cause severe symptoms that significantly affect the patient’s quality of life. Common indications for cholecystectomy include:
- Recurrent or severe pain associated with gallstones
- Having cholecystitis that has caused complications, such as infection or abscess formation
- Biliary dyskinesia causing significant discomfort and dysfunction
- Blockage of the bile duct, which prevents the normal flow of bile
Surgical techniques used in order to remove the gallbladder
Gallbladder removal can be performed by two main surgical techniques, open surgery or laparoscopy. In the majority of cases, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is preferred, as it is a minimally invasive procedure that offers significant advantages to the patient. It involves making small incisions in the abdomen, through which the laparoscope (a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the end) and specialized surgical instruments are inserted. The gallbladder is visualized on a high-definition screen as the laparoscope transmits the image of the inside of the abdomen, and then carefully removed. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy usually offers faster recovery, reduced post-operative pain and an improved aesthetic result.
However, in cases where the laparoscopic method is not feasible or safe, an open cholecystectomy is performed. This involves making a larger incision through which it is easier to remove the gallbladder. Open surgery is usually associated with a longer recovery period.
Recovery and post-operative care
Recovery after gallbladder removal varies, depending on the surgical technique used. In general, patients who undergo laparoscopic cholecystectomy usually recover faster and need to stay in the hospital for a significantly shorter time. Patients who have undergone an open cholecystectomy may experience a longer recovery period due to the larger incision size, which takes longer to heal. Postoperative care includes pain management, adherence to nutritional recommendations such as gradual re-introduction of fats, and monitoring for potential complications such as infection or bile leakage. For a reasonable period of time after surgery, it is important for patients to emphasize rest and avoid excessive physical activities. Generally, gallbladder removal, when performed under the appropriate indications, can significantly improve the quality of life of many individuals. The General Surgeons in Athens, who make up the Colon Rectal medical team, perform cholecystectomy with excellent success rates.
