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Gallbladder removal

Cholecystectomy AKA gallbladder removal is a surgical procedure that is performed to treat gallstones by removing the gallbladder. This can be done by the laparoscopic method which is a less invasive and common method. The other is through an open method.
Gallbladder removal

Why is it needed?

The removal of the gallbladder may be recommended because due to gallstones or because the gallbladder is not functioning as it should. The Symptoms and Signs to watch out for includes
  • Severe pain after eating in the upper right side of the abdomen
  • Constant feeling of vomiting and nausea
  • Indigestion
  • Infection

Facts and figures

  • Studies have pointed out that in comparison to men women are more prone to develop gallstones. This is especially in the case of overweight or middle-aged women.
  • Approximately 10% of people have gallstones
  • The removal of the gallbladder is one of the most common salt that many people of for in the Modern Times.
  • Carl Johann August Langenbuch a German surgeon developed the gallbladder removal procedure a century ago.
  • Dr. Eddi Joe Reddick developed the laparoscopic method in 1989.

Risk and Complications

  • Reaction to the medication or anesthesia
  • Problem in breathing
  • Development of pneumonia post-operation
  • Bleeding and/or blood clots
  • Infection
  • Small intestine or bile duct injury
  • Pancreatic inflammation

Advantages

  • The removal of the gallbladder helps to improve life quality and provide relief from digestive disturbance.
  • If a patient opts for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, he/she does not have to stay in the hospital for a long time.
  • Recovery is faster
  • After the laparoscopic cholecystectomy, a medical tourist can go back home within a week.

Disadvantages

  • Approximately 6% of the patients that opt for laparoscopic surgery may have to go for open surgery. This is because sometimes there are some gall stones that are not completely removed and are still present in the abdominal cavity.
  • The most common side effects of laparoscopic surgery are vomiting and nausea.

Preoperative Preparation

  • Complete physical, urine and blood examination
  • ECG, gallbladder and Chest X-Ray
  • Meeting with the specialist to understand what medications are to be stopped or taken before the procedure
  • Inform the surgeon about alcohol or smoking habits or even pregnancy planning
  • Counseling for a diet change and nutritional factors
  • Making necessary arrangements for help post the surgery
  • Post midnight before the surgery, the patient should not eat or drink anything.
  • It is advisable that medical tourists book a room that has handicapped access and is close to the hospital.
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Post operative care

  • Post the laparoscopic surgery, a patient can go home the same day. In the case of open surgery, the patient will be discharged 5-7 days post the surgery.
  • If a patient undergoes opens surgery, they will be under observation for a day. The hospital staff will provide all the help needed
  • Initially, the patient will be on IV fluids, gradually he/she will move to a liquid diet and eventually a solid diet. Medications will be given to prevent reduce abdominal pain, vomiting, and/or nausea
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Precautions and Preventive measures post the surgery

Precautions and Preventive measures post the surgery

  • The patient will have to follow a particular diet post the surgery
  • The patient should avoid strenuous activities, lifting heavy things, or drive for 2-3 days.
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