What is gallbladder surgery?

Gallbladder surgery or Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder which is a small, pouch-like organ that is located at the upper right abdomen. The gallbladder stores fluid called ‘bile’ that is produced by the liver to break down fatty foods and helps digestion. 

Why do you need gallbladder surgery?

The doctor may recommend you to undergo removal of the gallbladder if you have painful gallstones. Gallstones are developed due to an imbalance in the formation of bile. Mostly it does not cause any symptoms, but sometimes they can obstruct the flow of bile and can hurt the gallbladder or pancreas. This can lead to sudden and intense pain in the abdomen, yellowish discolouration of the eyes and you will feel sick. Although these gallstones can be sometimes dissolved by using medications, surgery to remove the gallbladder is the most effective treatment in most of the cases.

How is this procedure done?

The procedure can be carried out in two ways; 

Open cholecystectomy: It is the conventional type of surgery in which a large incision is made on your upper abdomen and creates access to remove the gallbladder. 

Laparoscopic (keyhole) Cholecystectomy: In laparoscopic surgery, multiple small incisions will be made on your abdomen rather than one large incision. A laparoscope with an attached camera will be inserted through one of the incisions, which will transmit good quality video of the operating area on a monitor. This will help the surgeon to guide the surgical instruments through other incisions to remove the gallbladder. 

How long does it take to recover after cholecystectomy?

You will have to stay back in the hospital for 3 to 5 days after an open cholecystectomy. And it takes approximately 6 to 8 weeks for the complete recovery. But after the laparoscopic surgery, you may leave the hospital the same day or the next day. And it takes around two weeks time for the complete recovery after the laparoscopic surgery. 

How much does this procedure cost?

Approximately in India, INR 30,000 to INR 100,000.