Outpatient Gallbladder Surgery Recovery Time

Potential Complications Of Gallbladder Surgery

Just like any other surgery, gallbladder surgery comes with a set of risks.

• Risk of bleeding and infection: According to ACS, the risk of bleeding and infection is quite rare.
• Infection occurs less than 0.1% of the time. This basically means that infection occurs in one out of every 1000 cases.
• More serious complications include injury to surrounding organs and bile leakage. These are even rarer than the risk of infection.

I am not trying to scare anyone from having their surgery. It is important for you to know what you could possibly go through during and after surgery. I might have left out a few points, so talk to your doctor about this stuff they might have some interesting information for you.

Let me know how your experience has been in the comments below.

What To Expect On The Day Of Surgery

What happens during your surgery depends on the approach the surgeon uses. Regardless of the approach used, the procedure should take about one to two hours.

To give you a sense of what’s involved, here is a brief walk-through of how laparoscopic gallbladder surgery is done:

• Vital signs are taken, an IV catheter and a urinary catheter are placed, and anesthesia medication is delivered to put you to sleep. The skin of your abdomen is prepared with an antibacterial solution.
• The surgeon will begin by making four small incisions, approximately half an inch long, in the upper-right side of the abdomentwo for access for surgical instruments, one to allow the laparoscope to be inserted, and one for a port that releases carbon dioxide gas to inflating the abdomen.
• The surgeon will then separate the gallbladder from the healthy tissue and place it in a sterile bag to allow it to pass through one of the small incisions. A drain may be placed in the abdomen to prevent fluid from collecting.
• The surgeon will then inspect the area where the gallbladder was removed and close the ducts that were connected to it.
• If there are no signs of leaking, the port will be removed. The remaining gas will leak out of the incisions as the instruments are taken out.
• The incisions will then be closed with stitches or surgical staples. A sterile bandage or adhesive strips will be placed over them.
• Anesthesia will be stopped and you will be taken to a recovery area.

How Is A Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal Performed

You first change into a hospital gown before the procedure. You then get an IV so your doctor can give you medications and fluids through your vein. Youre put under general anesthesia, which means youll be in a painless sleep before and during the surgery. A tube is placed in your throat thats connected to a mechanical ventilator to help you breathe.

For the procedure, your surgeon makes four small incisions in your abdomen. They use these incisions to guide a tube with a small, lighted camera into your abdomen.

They then guide other tools through the incisions while looking at a monitor that shows what the camera captures.

Your abdomen is inflated with gas so your surgeon has space to work. They remove your gallbladder through the incisions.

After your surgeon removes your gallbladder, they use a special X-ray to check for problems in your bile duct. This technique is called intraoperative cholangiography. This shows any abnormalities in the remaining bile duct structures, like a bile stone, that your surgeon may need to remove.

When your surgeon is satisfied with the results, they stitch up and bandage the incisions. After the procedure, youre brought to a room to recover from the anesthesia. Your vital signs are monitored closely the entire time.

Most people can go home later on the same day of the surgery.

Recommended Reading: Best Pillow For Stomach And Side Sleepers

Contact The Hospital Ward If You Have:

• a lot of pain that does not go away, especially if you feel sick or are sick and your stomach feels larger
• bleeding from your wounds that does not stop
• a high temperature
• redness, inflammation and pain at the wound site
• a large amount of swelling around the wound
• an abnormal colour at or around your wound site
• pus coming from your wound
• yellow skin or eyes

If you think that it is an emergency, please go to your nearest emergency department .

What Are The Risks Of A Cholecystectomy

Some possible complications of a cholecystectomy may include:

• Injury to the tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine

• Scars and a numb feeling at the incision site

• A bulging of organ or tissue at the incision site

During a laparoscopic procedure, surgical tools are put into your belly. This may hurt your intestines or blood vessels.

You may have other risks that are unique to you. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the procedure.

Read Also: What’s The Worst Vegetable For Your Gut

What Happens During Gallbladder Surgery

Here are some things to expect during surgery:

• A few tiny incisions, usually three or four, will be made in your abdomen. They will knock you out with a general anesthetic, so you shouldnt feel a thing during the operation.
• Carbon dioxide gas will be used to inflate your abdomen. This makes it easy for the surgeon to see what they’re doing. Surgical instruments, including a camera, will be inserted into your abdomen through the incisions.
• Your surgeon will use the camera to see inside and maybe take some photos. The gallbladder will be removed through one of the incisions.
• After the gallbladder has been removed, the incisions will be stitched and dressed.

Tips For Recovering From Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

If you have been recommended for gallbladder surgery, you are probably wondering about the recovery process. After all, even though it is performed using a minimally-invasive technique, it is still a medical surgery. Fortunately, for most patients the recovery from this type of surgery is fairly simple.One of the biggest benefits of laparoscopic surgery is that the recovery time is much quicker and usually more straightforward than conventional, invasive surgeries. You should be able to leave hospital on the same day as your procedure, although you will need someone to drive you home, and they should ideally stay with you for at least 24 hours as you may feel some side effects from the general anesthetic.Common side effects that you can expect to experience after your laparoscopic gallbladder surgery include:

• Swelling and bruising around the incision points, which should start to subside within a few days.
• Some discomfort, which can usually be alleviated using over the counter pain medication.
• Nausea, which abates as the anesthetic completely clears your body.
• Bloating, gas and diarrhea, sometimes accompanied by pain in your abdomen and shoulders. The latter should pass in a few days and is a result of the gas used to inflate your belly during the procedure while the former can take several weeks to regulate.

In total, it usually takes between one and three weeks to recover from laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, but this can vary from patient to patient.

Don’t Miss: Pancreatic Cancer Stage 3 Timeline

Managing Pain After Gallbladder Surgery

Once the surgery is completed you will begin your pain management. This is important to help you with the recovery process. If you do not take it easy, the pain can be severe and cause setbacks. There are two easy ways to manage the pain after surgery.

Get Rest

For a few days after the surgery, you will need to get plenty of rest. Letting the bodywork on itself to heal is the best way for it to do so. Stay seated or laying down and do not over-exert yourself.

Eat Light

Some of the pain after gallbladder surgery is caused by the liver having to get used to its new role without the gallbladder. Eating heavy after your surgery will cause some problems with your digestion and then pain in the area. A diet of liquids and nongreasy or fatty foods will help.

Gallbladder Treatment: Gallbladder Removal Surgery And Recovery Time

Cholecystectomy, otherwise known as gallbladder removal surgery, was once done as an open procedure, requiring a long, slow recovery and a large scar. Today, most gallbladder removals are done with a laparoscope. Laparoscopic surgery is now the most widely used gallbladder treatment today and it uses very small incisions which are usually hidden in or around the belly button. Long, slim, surgical tools are inserted, along with a video camera which allows the surgeon to work with precision inside of the abdomen. Gas or air is used to inflate the abdomen prior to surgery and this can lead to some discomfort afterward. It will take roughly one week for residual air to be absorbed into the GI tract and be dispelled. During this time, abdominal bloating and gas pain is often reported. Recovering from laparoscopic cholecystectomy will only take 1 to 3 weeks for most people- far less than the 6 weeks or more that the open surgery required. There are a few symptoms you can expect as you heal and ways to make yourself as comfortable as possible.

Gas Left Within Stomach Cavity

You will likely have some pain in your abdomen which could radiate to one or both shoulders. This pain is related to the gas still left in the abdomen after surgery and should resolve within a week.

Sore Throat

Vomiting And Nausea

Diarrhea

Unexpected Immediate Side Effects After Gallbladder Surgery

You should let your doctor know if you notice any of the following unexpected symptoms:

Read Also: Can Gallstones Be Removed Without Removing The Gallbladder

Recovery: What To Expect In The Next Few Weeks

• Most patients will feel better within seven days following surgery and can resume some normal activities, such as driving, walking and some duties at work however, do not lift, push or pull any heavy objects until you are cleared by your surgeon.
• Full recovery takes four to six weeks to allow for internal healing.

Alternative Names

Gallbladder removal gallstone surgery laparoscopy gallbladder surgery.

Recovery After Gallbladder Removal Tip : Avoid High

After youve had your gallbladder removed, your body is going to have some trouble digesting fat. Your physician will tell you when it is okay to gradually start adding fat back into your diet, although patients who have had their gallbladder removed are recommended to try to stick to healthier diets. Eating the wrong foods too soon after your surgery may cause pain, bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.

You should also avoid spicy foods and foods that cause gas or bloating. Ask for your doctors recommendations about foods high in fiber. Some may recommend it to decrease constipation, while some may want you to gradually introduce them back into your diet.

Read Also: Why Does My Stomach Hurt Everyday

The Morning Of Your Surgery

Instructions for Drinking Before Your Surgery

• If your healthcare provider gave you a CF® drink, finish it 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. Do not drink anything else after midnight the night before your surgery, including water.
• If your healthcare provider did not give you a CF drink, you can drink a total of 12 ounces of water between midnight and 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. Do not drink anything else.

Do not drink anything starting 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. This includes water.

Take Your Medications As Instructed

A member of your care team will tell you which medications to take the morning of your surgery. Take only those medications with a sip of water. Depending on what medications you take, this may be all, some, or none of your usual morning medications.

Shower With a 4% CHG Solution Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Shower with a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser before you leave for the hospital. Use it the same way you did the night before.

Do not put on any lotion, cream, deodorant, makeup, powder, perfume, or cologne after your shower.

Things to remember

What to bring

Where To Park

MSKs parking garage is on East 66th Street between York and 1st venues. If you have questions about prices, call .

There are other parking garages located on:

• East 69th Street between 1st and 2nd avenues.
• East 67th Street between York and 1st avenues.
• East 65th Street between 1st and 2nd avenues.

Once youre in the hospital

Meet With a Nurse

When To Call Your Healthcare Provider

There are some symptoms to watch out for that warrant contacting your healthcare provider as you progressively return to a normal diet, these include:

• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Worsening or severe abdominal pain
• No bowel movement or inability to pass gas for more than three days after surgery
• Diarrhea that lasts more than three days after surgery

A 2017 study found that post-cholecystectomy syndrome was associated with eating cholesterol, animal protein, and eggs. The study concluded that eating vegetables did not cause negative symptoms.

A person can live a normal life without a gallbladder, but the gallbladder does help in the digestion of fatty foods. The function of the gallbladder is to store and secrete bile .

After your gallbladder is removed, there may be some changes in your digestion and some symptoms that you should watch for. Your liver will still make and secret bile, but its important to carefully watch your diet.

General diet tips after a cholecystectomy include:

Read Also: Natural Ways To Improve Gut Health

What Is Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal Surgery

What is the gallbladder?

Your gallbladder is a small organ in your upper abdomen. The abdomen is the area in the middle of your body that holds many organs, including the stomach and gallbladder.

What does the gallbladder do?

The gallbladder collects and stores a liquid called bile that helps your body break down food. Small, hard deposits called gallstones can form in the gallbladder. This is a common condition. If your gallstones cause health problems, doctors might do surgery to remove it. For example, you might need surgery if your gallbladder is no longer working correctly and you have pain. Your doctor will talk with you about this.

In the past, doctors made a large cut in the belly to remove the gallbladder. This is called open surgery. Today, doctors can do this surgery with tiny instruments and just a few small cuts. This is called laparoscopic surgery, because the main instrument is called a laparoscope . Minimally invasive surgery is a general term for surgery with these small instruments.

When Should Someone Undergo Gallbladder Surgery

The gallbladder is a part of the digestive system. Its role is to store bile which helps the liver process fat. Because it is not crucial in the body, surgeons willingly remove the gallbladder once it develops issues.

One of these problems is gallstones. These form over time because of the chemicals in bile, but they have no symptoms until they clog the gallbladder or pancreas. When this happens, the patient will experience intense aches and jaundice.

In some cases, medication can melt gallstones. But surgery by far is the most effective intervention.

Recommended Reading: What Causes Big Stomach In Females

Recovery From Laparoscopic Surgery

After a laparoscopic procedure, most people can leave the hospital on the same day as the surgery. However, a friend or family member will need to drive the individual home after surgery or accompany them in a taxi.

It is also important to rest and avoid strenuous activities for up to 2 weeks, but a person should be able to return to normal activities after this time.

Ready For The Next Step

Are you a candidate for weight loss surgery? The first requirement for people interested in weight loss surgery is to watch our free, on-demand webinar. This webinar educates potential, qualified patients on the benefits and risks. Listen to Dr. Feteiha explain everything you need to know about bariatric surgery and whether it is the right choice for you.

You May Like: What Kills Good Gut Bacteria

When To Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you have:

• A fever of 101° F or higher
• Pain that doesnt get better with your medications
• Discharge from your incision that is bad-smelling or looks like pus
• Increased redness around your incision
• New or increased swelling around your incision
• Any new symptom or physical change

How Long Is The Recovery From Gallbladder Surgery

Recovery varies depending on whether laparoscopic or open surgery is performed.

With laparoscopic surgery, patients are usually able to leave the hospital the same day as the procedure. In some cases, there will be an overnight stay required. Patients are advised to rest and avoid sports, heavy lifting, and swimming for at least one week, and patients can usually resume their normal routine in about 2 weeks.

With open surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. Once home, patients are advised to avoid sports, heavy lifting, and swimming for a few weeks. It may take 6 to 8 weeks for a full recovery.

Don’t Miss: How To Get My Gut Healthy

Find A General Surgeon In Greater Nashville

Dr. Suhail Allos

356 24th Ave. North | Suite 400 | Nashville, TN 37203TEL 615.329.7887 FAX 615.340.4537

FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALISTS OF NASHVILLE4230 Harding Pike | Suite 202 | Nashville, TN 37205TEL 615.662.6676 FAX 615.662.8371

300 20th Ave. North | Suite 301 | Nashville, TN 37203TEL 615.284.2400 FAX 615.284.4644

4230 Harding Pike | Suite 525 | Nashville, TN 37205TEL 615.385.1547 FAX 615.297.9161

3443 Dickerson Pike | Suite 600 | Nashville, TN 37207TEL 615.865.0700 FAX 615.865.0701

4322 Harding Pike | Suite 326 | Nashville, TN 37205TEL 615.620.7800 FAX 615.620.7805

397 Wallace Rd. | Suite 301 | Nashville, TN 37211TEL 615.425.0550 FAX 615.833.8287

4535 Harding Pike | Suite 304 | Nashville, TN 37205TEL 615.269.9007 FAX 615.269.3448

356 24th Ave. North | Suite 300 | Nashville, TN 37203TEL 615.301.5264 FAX 615.340.4537

85 White Bridge Rd | 2nd Floor | Nashville, TN 37205TEL 615.938.7545 FAX 615.938.7546