Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)

• Authorization will be arranged by the rooms or hospital staff.

• Fasting:

• No solid food for 6 hours before surgery

• No clear liquids for 2 hours before surgery

• Most chronic medications may be taken unless advised otherwise.

• Inform your doctor if you are taking blood-thinning medication.

• Diabetic medication instructions will be discussed in advance.

• Blood tests, imaging, and anaesthetic assessment may be required.

Cholecystectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. You may have:

• An intravenous drip for fluids and medication

• Small dressings over the incision sites

• Occasionally a drain, depending on operative findings

Pain control will be provided, and early mobilisation is encouraged.

The procedure is tailored to your condition and is usually performed laparoscopically (keyhole surgery).

• Several small incisions are made in the abdomen.

• A camera and instruments are used to remove the gallbladder.

• The bile duct is carefully identified and protected.

• In some cases, an intra-operative cholangiogram may be performed to assess the bile ducts.

• If keyhole surgery is not safe or feasible, conversion to open surgery may be required.

The gallbladder is removed entirely and sent for histological examination if indicated.

The operation typically takes 45–90 minutes, depending on complexity and inflammation.

• Bleeding

• Infection

• Bile leak

• Injury to the bile duct

• Injury to bowel, liver, or blood vessels

• Unintended damage to surrounding structures

• Blood clots (DVT/PE)

• Chest infection

• Persistent abdominal discomfort or diarrhoea (usually temporary)

• Need for further procedures or surgery

• Contact the rooms or seek urgent medical attention if you develop worsening abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, persistent vomiting, or increasing abdominal swelling.

• Most patients are discharged after 1 night

• Acute or complicated cases may require a longer stay