Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (gall bladder stone removal)

What is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gall bladder, usually due to gallstones causing pain or infection. The gall bladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, aiding in fat digestion. When gallstones form, they can block bile flow, leading to severe abdominal pain, nausea, and other complications. This surgery uses small incisions and a camera to safely remove the gall bladder with minimal discomfort and faster recovery compared to open surgery.Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is a safe, effective, and widely performed procedure for gall bladder stone removal.

Symptoms Indicating Gall Bladder Problems

Sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen
Pain that radiates to the right shoulder or back
Nausea and vomiting, especially after fatty meals
Bloating or indigestion
Fever and chills (if infection is present)
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes, if stones block bile ducts)

If you experience these symptoms repeatedly, it may indicate gallstones requiring surgical intervention.

Procedure / Treatment

During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy:

The patient is given general anaesthesia.
Small incisions (usually 3-4) are made in the abdomen.
A laparoscope (tiny camera) is inserted to view the gall bladder on a screen.
Special surgical instruments are used to detach and remove the gall bladder.
The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.

The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours. Most patients can go home the same day or after overnight observation, with a recovery period of 1-2 weeks.

Prevention

While some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, you can reduce the risk of gallstones by:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Losing weight gradually (rapid weight loss increases gallstone risk)
Eating a balanced diet rich in fibre and healthy fats
Exercising regularly
Avoiding prolonged fasting or skipping meals

However, once gallstones form and cause symptoms, surgery is the most effective treatment.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Minimally invasive with small scars
Less pain post-surgery compared to open surgery
Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
Quick return to daily activities
Lower risk of complications such as infections or hernias

Types of Gall Bladder Surgery

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy – Standard, minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera. It is the preferred and most common method.
Open Cholecystectomy – Traditional surgery involving a larger abdominal incision. It is performed if complications like severe infection, scarring, or abnormal anatomy are present.