Gallbladder Surgeon Explains Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

 

What is a Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the least invasive surgical procedure involving small incisions to remove the gallbladder. According to a gallbladder surgeon in Kolkata, gallbladder removal can help people who suffer from gallstones causing inflammation, pain or infection. Usually, most people get discharged the same day after the surgery and can soon return to normal activities. 

Who needs to have a Gallbladder Removal?

Doctors recommend gallbladder removal surgery to people who suffer from pain, inflammation and infection caused due to the formation of gallstones. Gallstones are crystals or hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. These crystals can block the outflow of bile from the gallbladder into the digestive system, causing cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder). 

Symptoms of gallstones include:

• Abdominal pain in the right side may shoot down the back or shoulder.
• Feeling bloated.
• Fever.
• Jaundice.
• Nausea.

How should I prepare for Gallbladder Removal?

Before the laparoscopic procedure, your healthcare team will perform the following tests, says the best gallbladder laparoscopic surgeon in Kolkata – 

• Ultrasound of the abdomen.
• Blood work.
• Urinalysis (a urine test) 

They will also ask about:

• Any medications that you may be taking.
• Options for controlling pain during and after the operation.
• Your surgeon may suggest you avoid eating and drinking for a few hours before the procedure.

What happens during the Laparoscopic Surgical Procedure?

Before the start of the operation, you will receive general anaesthesia. Once the anaesthesia kicks in, your healthcare providers will place a tube down your throat to allow you to breathe. They will place another tube (IV line) in your arm to inject fluids and medications.

According to a laparoscopic gallbladder surgeon in Kolkata, the surgery takes an hour or two to complete. A surgeon will cut a few small incisions in your abdomen during the procedure and insert thin, hollow tubes through those incisions. The surgeon will then insert a laparoscope and other surgical tools through the tubes.

Carbon dioxide is pumped into your abdomen to inflate the surgical area and makes it easier to see inside. The surgeon will cut and remove the gallbladder using the special surgical tools. The team will then stitch or use surgical clips or surgical glue to close the incisions.

If any complications arise during the laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon may switch to an open cholecystectomy involving a larger incision.

Recovery after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

After completing the surgery, your healthcare team will keep you under observation for a few hours to make sure you wake up from the anaesthesia without complications. They will check your breathing, heart health, blood pressure and ability to urinate.

If your healthcare team does not witness any complications, they will discharge you the same day after the surgery. However, if any issues arise, you may have to stay in the hospital for a day or two, says the best gallbladder surgeon in Kolkata.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

• Less pain.
• Smaller wounds and scars.
• Lower risk of complications.
• Quicker recovery and return to regular activities.