Gallbladder is a tiny organ that sits atop the liver. Shaped like a pear, gallbladder is required for the storage of bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in the digestion of the fat in the body.
However, in certain situations, gallbladder needs to be removed. This procedure is known as cholecystectomy.
There are different ways to remove the gallbladder, but it’s commonly conducted using the surgical technique laparoscopy.
In it, your Laparoscopic Surgeon in Lahore makes a small incision through which is tiny camera is inserted to get the view of inside of the body. The video is then used for to carry out the procedure.
Reasons for cholecystectomy
There are many reasons why one may need to have their gallbladder removed. One reason is the presence of gallstones. These are crystals that are formed inside of the gallbladder and prevent the outflow of the bile juice. It can also then lead to the inflammation of the gallbladder, which is known as cholecystitis.
Not only do gallstones cause a lot of pain in the right side of the abdomen, but they also may move around to other parts of the body, and cause problems therein. Symptoms of gallstones include fever, jaundice, nausea, and bloating.
Moreover, doctors may also prescribe cholecystectomy when the gallstones lead to pancreatitis, which is the inflammation of the pancreases. This condition also causes a great deal of pain to the patients.
Furthermore, cholecystectomy is also advised in cases where patient is suffering from large gallbladder polyps.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves first administering general anesthesia to the patients.
During the procedure, surgeon makes 2 incisions in the abdomen. Then, tubes are inserted through these holes. Through one tube, the laparoscope is inserted and through the other, surgical paraphernalia is carried.
To facilitate in easier sight, surgeon also inflate the abdomen with carbon dioxide. Patients may also undergo X-ray or an ultrasound in case the surgeon is concerned about gallstones or other problems with the bile duct.
Thereafter, the gallbladder is detached from the body, and removed. The incisions are then sown up or closed using surgical glue or clips.
It is also entirely possible that the procedure may start out with the aid of a laparoscope, but the surgeon might decide to make a bigger incision instead, which is the case with open cholecystectomy.
The procedure itself lasts for only a few hours. In the aftermath of Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, most patients are allowed to go home the same day.
Benefits of cholecystectomy
While the doctor will make the executive decision regarding the operation, however, there are certain benefits to cholecystectomy. It helps people get reprieve from the pain that gallstone would trigger. It also helps in preventing the gallstones from forming again.
Moreover, cholecystectomy also helps people in getting rid of the infections that the gallstones would brew very often otherwise. If gallstones are not treated in time, they can also cause the gallbladder to burst, and can be then, life-threatening as well.
Benefits of Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Laparoscopy also carries benefits for the patients. Due to the small incision size, it allows for quick healing. Moreover, there is also lesser chance of infection due again to smaller wound.
Similarly, laparoscopic cholecystectomy also involves lesser bleeding as well.
Possible complications of Laparoscopic cholecystectomy
There may be some complications of the Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, however, they are rare.
Cholecystectomy can cause leakage of bile. There can also be an injury to the bile ducts, liver, or the intestines. Some people may also have infection and inflammation of the abdomen, known as peritonitis.
Surgery itself also involves certain risks. There can be complications due to anesthesia. Some people might suffer from excessive bleeding. Catheter may lead to UTIS.
Before heading off to the procedure, it is important that you talk to your Laparoscopic Surgeon in Karachi and get clarity on these matters.
