Gallstone surgery is necessary when gallstones cause symptoms or complications. If left untreated, gallstones can lead to severe pain, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), pancreatitis, or blockage of the bile ducts. Surgical removal of the gallbladder or the gallstones can relieve these issues and prevent future problems.

There are two main types of gallstone surgery: laparoscopic cholecystectomy and open cholecystectomy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most common and less invasive approach, where several small incisions are made to insert a laparoscope and surgical instruments. Open cholecystectomy involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to directly access the gallbladder.

The duration of gallstone surgery can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the surgical approach used. On average, at IPSC Pain and Spine Hospital, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, while an open cholecystectomy may take longer, typically around 2 to 3 hours.

Although gallstone surgery is generally safe, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications. These can include infection, bleeding, bile duct injury, leakage of bile, bowel injury, reaction to anesthesia, blood clots, or complications related to underlying health conditions. It's important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before the surgery.

The recovery period after gallstone surgery varies from person to person. In the case of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, most patients can go home on the same day or within 24 hours after the surgery. The complete recovery time can range from a few days to a few weeks, depending on individual factors and the type of surgery performed.

It's common to experience some pain or discomfort after gallstone surgery. Our Anaesthesiologists are also experts in Pain management and they will help to manage the post-operative pain. Following the post-operative instructions provided by our team, including taking prescribed pain medication as directed, using ice packs, and avoiding strenuous activities, can aid in pain management.

Our dietitian will provide specific dietary instructions based on your individual case. In general, after gallstone surgery, it's recommended to start with a low-fat diet and gradually reintroduce normal foods. Avoiding high-fat, greasy, or spicy foods initially can help prevent digestive discomfort. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and staying well-hydrated are also beneficial.

Yes, you can live a normal life without a gallbladder. The gallbladder is not an essential organ, and its main function is to store bile produced by the liver. After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver to the small intestine. Most people can continue their regular activities, including diet and exercise, without significant limitations.