The removal of the
gallbladder has become an increasingly common procedure for those who have
gallstones. If it is only the gallstones that are removed from the gallbladder,
there is a big chance that the gallstones will come back, and many surgeons
recommend the removal of the entire gallbladder so gallstones have no chance of
recurring. Gallbladder removal is referred to as a cholecystectomy, and if you
have gallstones and have been recommended for gallbladder removal surgery, it
is understandable if you have specific questions about the procedure. If you
would like to know what to expect with gallbladder surgery and how you can
properly prepare for it, here's your best guide.
What
it is and how it is performed
As already mentioned,
cholecystectomy is a fairly standard procedure nowadays, and it carries minimal
risk, as confirmed by gallbladder surgery London experts. The surgery is
usually performed with the insertion of a small video camera as well as
specialised tools through small cuts or incisions on the abdomen. The camera
aids the surgeon in seeing the gallbladder, and the tools help to remove it.
This kind of surgery is called laparoscopic surgery, although in some cases, patients
may undergo open surgery where a single large cut or incision is made by the
surgeon to remove the gallbladder.
How
you can prepare for it
·
Medication
and food
Your surgeon
specialising in gallstone surgery in London (such as the
experienced surgeons from The London Surgical Group) will tell you not to eat
anything prior to your surgery, especially the night before. You may be allowed
a small drink of water along with your medication, but you should avoid
consuming anything or drinking anything a minimum of four hours prior to your
surgery.
The surgeon may tell
you to stop taking certain supplements or medications prior to the surgery,
especially if they can increase your likelihood of bleeding during the
procedure. You can continue taking other medications, however.
·
Personal
belongings and clothing
If you are undergoing
a laparoscopic procedure for gallbladder removal, you may be able to go home
right on the day of the surgery itself. Just in case, however, you should
prepare a few personal belongings and items such as bathroom toiletries and a
change of clothing; you can also bring items such as magazines or books.
·
Help
from someone
Once the procedure is
finished and you have received the all-clear, you should have someone drive you
to your home. You should also ask someone to stay with you for at least 24
hours after the procedure so they can assist you and be with you in case any
complications develop.
What
you can expect with gallbladder surgery
When the procedure is
done, you will usually be taken to the recovery room or area so your
anaesthesia can wear off. Afterwards, you are taken to an individual hospital
room so you can continue your recovery. If you undergo a laparoscopic
procedure, you can usually go home on the same day, unless the operation is
performed in the evening. Once you are able to drink and eat without any pain
and are able to walk without aid, your surgeon can give you the green light to
go home. Recovery can take up to a week.
If you have undergone
an open procedure, you may spend about two to three days in hospital, and once
you return home, your recovery period may take four to six weeks.
