Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal
Keyhole removal of the gallbladder, the usual treatment for symptomatic gallstones.
Stay
Day care or short stay
Duration
About 45-60 minutes
Anaesthesia
General
About Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder through several small incisions using a camera and instruments. It is the standard treatment where gallstones cause pain or complications. Most patients are mobile quickly because the incisions are small.
Before you read on
Everything here is general information about laparoscopic gallbladder removal. Whether it suits you, and how it would be done in your case, is a decision for your doctor after examining you.
Your consultant's instructions always take precedence over anything written on this page.
When is it recommended?
Situations in which a doctor may suggest laparoscopic gallbladder removal.
- Gallstones causing pain after meals
- Inflammation of the gallbladder
- Gallstones that have caused pancreatitis or jaundice
Procedure details
The usual sequence, from first consultation through to follow-up.
Diagnosis
An ultrasound scan and blood tests confirm gallstones and check liver function.
Surgery
The gallbladder is removed through small incisions under general anaesthesia.
Recovery
Most patients walk and eat lightly within a day, with discharge once pain is controlled.
Diet advice
Your surgeon will advise on diet in the weeks after surgery and arrange a review.
How to prepare
What to sort out before you come in.
- Ultrasound and blood tests, including liver function
- Fasting from the time your team specifies
- Discuss blood-thinning medication with your surgeon
- Arrange someone to take you home
Recovery
What to expect afterwards, and roughly when.
- Most patients go home the same day or after one night
- Shoulder-tip discomfort from the gas used settles within a few days
- Return to desk work in about a week; avoid heavy lifting for two to four
- A low-fat diet is easier in the first weeks while digestion adjusts
Why choose Humayun?
What you can expect from us, whichever department you come in through.
Experienced specialists
Consultants who perform these procedures routinely, not occasionally.
Everything on one campus
Theatres, critical care, diagnostics and pharmacy in the same building, so care is not split across sites.
Safety you can check
Infection control, consent and clinical protocols audited against national accreditation standards.
In-house diagnostics
Laboratory and imaging on site, so results reach your doctor the same day rather than after a referral.
Clear about cost
You are told what a treatment involves and what it is likely to cost before you consent to it.
Support around the clock
A 24×7 emergency department and critical care units, whatever time you need us.
Your Health Matters
Take the next step towards better healthcare.
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