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Agree toTerms and ConditionsLaparoscopic cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure widely used to treat gallbladder diseases. The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ present under the liver. This organ stores bile, a fluid made by the liver that helps digest fats. When gallstones obstruct the bile ducts or the gallbladder becomes infected or inflamed, it may need to be removed. This removal is done through a procedure known as a cholecystectomy. The laparoscopic approach to cholecystectomy has become the gold standard due to its less invasive nature, less pain, shorter hospitalication, and quicker return to normal activities compared to the traditional open surgery. A long, thin tube that has a high-intensity light and a camera with high resolution in the front, called a laparoscope, is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon can now view the internal organs on a screen and perform the surgery without making a large incision.
This is the most common type of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, often referred to as 'keyhole surgery'. In this procedure, four small incisions are made in the abdomen. The laparoscope is inserted through one incision, while the other incisions allow the surgeon to insert specialized surgical tools to remove the gallbladder.
SILS is a more recent development in laparoscopic cholecystectomy. It involves making a single incision, usually in the belly button, to remove the gallbladder. This method has the advantage of leaving little to no visible scars, but it requires more advanced surgical skills.
The surgeon uses a computer to control the surgical instruments, which provides a greater range of motion and precision. The robotic arms hold the instruments and a 3D camera, enabling surgeons to perform complex maneuvers with enhanced vision, precision, and control.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is done for gallbladder removal using a medical device known as a laparoscope. This operation becomes necessary under several circumstances which are mainly related to gallbladder diseases. Here are some conditions that may warrant the need for a laparoscopic cholecystectomy:
This is the most common reason for gallbladder removal. Gallstones are hard particles that develop in the gallbladder and can cause severe stomach pain and other complications if not treated.
These are stones that have moved from the gallbladder into the bile duct, causing blockage and potential infection.
Also known as cholecystitis, this condition occurs when the gallbladder wall becomes inflamed. It is often caused by gallstones and may lead to severe pain and fever.
In this condition, there is inflammation of the pancreas due to gallstones. It can cause severe abdominal pain and other serious complications.
Although rare, gallbladder cancer is a serious condition that typically leads to the removal of the gallbladder.
Before the surgery, the surgeon may order several tests such as blood tests, ultrasounds, or a complete physical examination to ensure that you are fit for the surgery.
Discuss with your doctor about all the drugs you are on, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You may need to stop taking certain medications a few days before the surgery.
You will need to fast for at least 8 hours before the surgery. This means no food or drink, including water.
Since you will be under the effects of anesthesia, arrange for someone who will ensure that you reach home safely after the surgery. It's also helpful to have someone stay with you for at least the first night post-surgery.
Prepare your home for your recovery before you go for surgery. This may include setting up a comfortable space for rest, stocking up on easy-to-digest foods, and making sure necessary items are within easy reach.
Before the laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery, your doctor will do a thorough physical examination to evaluate your overall health. If you have a history of other medical conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes, your doctor will take these into account when planning your surgery.
You will also undergo several tests, including blood tests, ultrasonography or CT scan, to determine the size and location of your gallbladder. These tests will also help your doctor assess whether there are any gallstones in your bile ducts.
You will be asked to fast for several hours before the surgery. This is to ensure that your stomach is empty; this reduces the risk of surgical complications. You will also be asked to stop some medicines that could cause complications, such as blood thinners, a few days before the surgery.
On the day of the surgery, you are given general anesthesia; thus, you will be asleep and unaware during the procedure. An intravenous (IV) line is inserted into one of your veins to deliver the anesthesia and other medications.
During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy operation, the surgeon makes several small incisions in your abdomen. A tube carrying a tiny video camera is inserted into an incision, letting the surgeon to view your gallbladder on a video monitor.
The surgeon inserts special surgical instruments via the other incisions to remove your gallbladder. The gallbladder is carefully separated from the liver and other structures, then removed through one of the incisions.
If gallstones are present in your bile ducts, the surgeon may also perform a procedure called an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) during the surgery. A flexible tube is advanced down your throat via your stomach and into the upper part of your small intestine to reach the bile ducts. A dye is added into the bile ducts and an X-ray is taken to locate the gallstones, which are then removed.
Once the gallbladder and any gallstones are removed, the surgeon secures and closes the incisions with stitches or surgical tape. In most cases, the surgery is completed within 1 to 2 hours.
Initially, the patient is positioned on the operating table under general anesthesia. A small cut is made near the belly button; a laparoscope is inserted.
Carbon dioxide gas is introduced into the abdomen to create a working space for the surgeon. More small incisions are made for inserting other surgical instruments.
The surgeon then locates the gallbladder and separates it from the liver and other tissues. The cystic duct and artery are identified, clipped, and cut.
The gallbladder is then removed through one of the incisions. A special X-ray, called a cholangiogram, can be performed to look for gallstones that may be lodged in the bile ducts.
The incisions are then sutured or closed with surgical tape. The whole procedure typically lasts about 1-2 hours.
After the surgery, the patient is usually able to go home the same day. They may feel some discomfort and pain, which can be managed with medications.
Recovery time varies from person to person, but most people can return to their normal activities within a week or two. Dietary changes may be needed to manage digestion without the gallbladder.
Follow-up appointments with the surgeon are necessary to monitor healing and to remove sutures if non-dissolvable stitches were used.
Although laparoscopic cholecystectomy is generally safe, like any surgery, it does carry some risks. These can include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby structures like the bile duct, liver, and intestines.
Some people may experience complications from the general anesthesia. In rare cases, a gallstone may get into the abdominal cavity and cause problems.
Postcholecystectomy syndrome is a condition that can occur after gallbladder removal, characterized by abdominal pain and digestive problems. It's important to discuss all the possible risks and complications with the surgeon before the procedure.