Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

What is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is an invasive surgery that is done to remove the gallbladder.

The surgeon makes small cuts on the right side of the abdomen. A laparoscope (a device with high-intensity light and camera) is inserted in one of the cuts. A video feed is sent back to the monitor showing the gallbladder. The device will be navigated until it reaches the position of the gallbladder. The gallbladder is then removed. 

What is a Gallbladder?

This is a small pouch (pear-shaped organ) that sits under the liver and is responsible for storing and releasing the bile produced by the liver. Bile is a fluid that digests the fats in the food you eat.

Why Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

When a patient is suffering from inflammation, pain, or infection caused by the gallstones, surgery is done to rectify such by removing the gallbladder.

What are gallstones?

These are crystals that form in the gallbladder that can block the flow of bile when released into the digestive system. The blockage causes the inflammation of the bladder (cholecystitis)

What are the symptoms of gallstones?

Fever

Yellow looking skin (jaundice)

Nausea

Pain on the right side of the abdomen

What to do before Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

When you notice symptoms listed above, the doctor will carry out certain medical investigations, such as:

Abdominal Ultrasound

Urinalysis

Liver Function Test (LFT)

During the consultation, your medical history will be ascertained. The doctor will ask about medications currently or certain medications you have taken in the past. If the surgery is given a green light, you will need to abstain from food and drinks for some hours before surgery.

What happens during Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

General anesthesia will be given for numbness around the body and to put you into sleep for the procedure. A tube will be put down your throat to assist you in breathing. An IV line will be inserted into your arms for fluids and medications delivery.

A surgeon makes some deep cuts or incisions in your abdomen. The abdomen is inflated by pumping carbon dioxide into the abdomen. The surgeon will insert hollow tubes into those incisions. These tubes are used for the laparoscope and surgical tools to travel through to the abdomen.  Using the surgical tools and the laparoscope, the gallbladder will be detached from its current position and removed. Every other surgical equipment including the hollow tube will be removed, and the incision cleaned, stitched up, and then dressed.

How long does the procedure last and what happens after?

The procedure can last for about 1 to 2 hours. After the surgery, you will be observed for a few hours to ensure no complications after coming out from anesthesia. Your vitals like heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure will be checked. Also, your ability to urinate has to be established. Besides, you can be discharged from the hospital the same day.

What risks are associated with Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

The surgery is minimal and less invasive. Risks associated with it are. Notwithstanding, certain risks such as;

bleeding,

hernia,

inflammation and infection in the abdomen (peritonitis),

urinary tract infection,

bile leaking in the body,

anesthesia complications

can come into play in the aftermath of the surgery. But like I said, these risks are rare.

What can I do to improve recovery after the surgery?

The questions sound more like what you can do to improve your recovery. Here are those things:

Drink plenty of water

Eat foods containing high fiber

Move around a bit

Avoid carrying heavy objects or bending down

As time goes on and advised by the surgeon, slowly ease into routine activity

You can't afford to rush things. One step at a time is the best.

How soon can I return to normal activities?

If there are no complications arising, you can resume normal activities within 2 weeks. It is also advised to resume normal activities, especially physical and sexual activities, gradually.

When do I seek medical help after the surgery?

If any of the following listed below arises:

Abdominal cramps

Fever

Bleeding, swelling in the incision

Vomiting

Yellow skin

No bowel movement for more than 2 days, seek medical attention immediately.

Is this a daycare surgery?

Yes, it is a daycare surgery. But certain conditions might extend your stay in the hospital overnight: when there are complications noticed during observation, which is immediately after the surgery.

What else?

In the case you notice symptoms related to gallstone, consult with a doctor as soon as possible. Gallstones can be painful and equally dangerous if not addressed on time.

Reference

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Gallbladder removal