Cholecystectomy is a surgical removal of the gall bladder.
What is a gall bladder ?
The gallbladder is a small organ in the gastro-intestinal system. It is located just under the liver. Its location is on the right side of the body, just under the right lower ribs. In even fully-grown adults, the gallbladder’s size is only about 3 to 4 inches.
What is the function of a gall bladder ?
The gall bladder’s function is simple. It collects, gathers and stores bile, a digestive fluid synthesized in the liver. This liquid, bile digests the fats present in foods, as they make their passage in the small intestine. Bile could be released directly from the liver Into the small intestine, or it could be stored in the gallbladder for later release.
Can we live without a gall bladder ?
What is important to know, is that the gallbladder is a supportive digestive organ, but not a mandatory one, which means that it is not necessary for living. Countless people have had their gallbladders removed and have gone on to live absolutely normal lives. A little diet modification may be necessary, but that is all.
When does one need cholecystectomy surgery ?
- Cholecystitis (or chronic irritation of the gall bladder).
- Cholelithiasis (or gall bladder stone)- Patients with multiple or large gall stones.
- Gallbladder polyp: Recent studies suggest that polyps greater than 10 mm in diameter have a strong malignant potential.
- A congenital malformation of the Gall Bladder.
- Gall Bladder Cancers: Adenocarcinomas or squamous cell carcinomas of the Gall Bladder.
What are the types of cholecystectomy surgery ?
- Simple cholecystectomy surgery- It is simple removal of the gall bladder.
- Radical cholecystectomy surgery – It is a more extensive surgery with removal of gall bladder, as well as surrounding soft tissue & lymph nodes.
What is the diagnostic work-up for cholecystectomy surgery ?
- A complete physical examination of the body is mandatory.
- Biochemical tests – A raised bilirubin is a sign of advanced disease.
- Imaging tools- Ultrasound (USG), Computed Tomographic (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) can detect structural changes that include gall bladder polyps, or a thickening and replacement of the gallbladder lumen by a stone/ stones or cancer mass.
- In case of Gall Bladder Cancers, tumor markers need to be assessed. CEA and CA 19-9 indicate presence of cancer in the body. Staging laparoscopy should be done in patients to rule out distant metastases.
What is the procedure for cholecystectomy surgery ?
General anesthesia with muscle relaxation is usually required. The operation is done through an abdominal incision (open approach) or more commonly, via a keyhole or laparoscopic approach (multiple, small entry points will be made in the abdomen).
After the incision is made, the blood supply to the gall bladder is isolated and tied off and the gall bladder is removed either with or without its surrounding structures. The wound is then closed with staples or stitches.
How long do you have to stay in the hospital after a cholecystectomy surgery ?
You can either return the same day (in case of laparoscopic cholecystectomy) or you can go home in two to three days ((in case of open cholecystectomy). Either way you should go prepared keeping a hospital stay in mind.
What is the care to be taken after the cholecystectomy surgery ?
Diet modification is extremely important. Initially, it is better if you have clear liquids and broths. Slowly but surely, add more solid foods back into your diet. Steer clear of fried, spicy, high-fat or heavy foods as well as gas-causing foods. It would be better to stick to smaller, frequent meals. Eating the wrong things after gallbladder surgery can induce pain, bloating and vomiting or diarrhea. It is best avoid alcohol, smoking as well as caffeine.
How to find and reach general surgeons for cholecystectomy surgery ?
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Find, reach and choose a general surgeons for your cholecystectomy surgery on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.