Gallbladder Removal (Cholecystectomy)

It’s an unfortunate but not unusual condition when gallbladder ducts become clogged with gallstones or blockages. You might experience frequent heartburn, indigestion, bloating, or pain in your abdomen. Some people with gallstones have nausea or reoccurring vomiting. The good news is you can live without your gallbladder, and removing it tends to fully mitigate the painful or troublesome symptoms of gallbladder blockage.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a procedure that removes the gallbladder using a laparoscope: a thin, flexible tube that lets the doctor see inside your abdomen.

What should I know about gallbladder removal surgery?

This procedure is done while under general anesthesia, and the surgeon will make three or four tiny incisions in your abdomen. The surgeon inserts the laparoscope through one of the incisions while medical instruments will be inserted through the other incisions. Gas is pumped into the abdomen to expand it and give your surgeon some extra space to work.

First the bile ducts and blood vessels leading to the gallbladder are cut. Next, the surgeon uses the laparoscope to remove the gallbladder. Your surgeon will also inject dye into the common bile duct, which will be left in the body. This dye helps locate any other stones outside the gallbladder, which the doctor may be able to remove.

Preparing for gallbladder removal surgery

We recommend that you inform your primary care provider about your surgery and discuss any medication changes that should take place. You’ll be asked to fast for several hours before the procedure and arrange a ride home since you will not be permitted to drive. The surgery team will ensure you’re well-informed with recovery instructions and options to manage pain.

Most patients experience some incision discomfort and nausea after gallbladder removal, but many return to their normal activities in about a week. There are usually no restrictions on lifting or exercising, but your doctor will advise you about your individual recovery.

General Surgeons

Megan Grunander, MD

Kyle Dunning, MD

Dr. Eric Liedtke

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