Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove gallbladder, a pear-shaped hollow organ that lies beneath the liver, which collects and stores the digestive fluid called bile. A gallbladder removal surgery may become necessary when accumulated gallstones block the flow of bile, and the person experiences pain and other symptoms. It is one of the most common surgeries performed at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery (DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery) under the guidance of Dr. Sachin Kukreja. The procedure entails minimum risks, and in case of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, patients can go home the same day.
Open vs Robotic Cholecystectomy
In open cholecystectomy, surgeons make a 5-7 inch incision into the upper right side of the abdomen below the ribs. After that, the surrounding tissues and muscles are pulled back to expose gallbladder. Surgeons then remove the gallbladder after which the incision site is sutured. An open cholecystectomy takes 1-2 hours. Open cholecystectomy is becoming less and less common compared to robotic or laparoscopic cholecystectomy because of the latter’s greater efficiency, less pain involved, and faster recovery time.
During a robotic laparoscopic cholecystectomy, surgeons make 3-4 small incisions. A tube with a miniature video camera is then inserted into the abdomen through one of the incisions. The surgeons are able to watch the video on the monitor even as they operate on the patient with surgical tools to remove the gallbladder. Utilization of the robot may decrease the risk of bile duct injury as advanced laser technology helps to show the anatomy in a way not seen with traditional laparoscopy. After the surgical removal of the gallbladder, the incisions are sutured, and patient is taken to the recovery room. Given the obvious advantages, most patients opt for robotic cholecystectomy when it comes to gallbladder removal.
Post-Surgery
Unlike open cholecystectomy where patients usually stay 2-3 days in the hospital recovering, in laparoscopic cholecystectomy, in most cases, patients are able to go home the same day of the surgery itself. Patients who underwent laparoscopic gallbladder removal procedure are at advantage of faster recovery, which is about a week only, whereas in case of an open surgery, it takes at least 4-6 weeks to fully recover. Our surgeons explain everything thoroughly to the patients including the need for fasting and discontinuation of certain medications ahead of obtaining a medical consent. We also ensure all mandatory preoperative tests are carried out well before the scheduled date of the procedure.
Prognosis
Laparoscopic/Robotic cholecystectomy brings long-term relief to discomfort and pain that individuals with gallstones often experience. It is the only proven way to prevent recurring cases of gallstones since conservative treatments are usually not effective. Cholecystectomy does not affect human digestive system because the role of gallbladder in digestion is insignificant. Some people may experience loose stool from time to time following the procedure, but it generally resolves over time. How fast a person returns to normal daily activities after a cholecystectomy depends on the type of procedure they underwent and their health status.
Risks & Complications
Although gallbladder removal is a safe procedure, like any surgical procedure, it involves a few risks and complications. They include injury to the bile duct, bleeding, infection, leakage of bile fluid, and bowel damage, but they are infrequent. To learn more about possible risks and complications, speak with the experts at DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery.
Need Gallbladder Removal Surgery in Dallas?
If you are experiencing any type of gallbladder problem, Dr. Sachin Kukreja and DFW Bariatrics and General Surgery can help. We leverage the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat gallstones. You can benefit from the specialized knowledge, competency, and professionalism of our surgical staff. If you are considering undergoing cholecystectomy in Dallas, and need inquiries to schedule an appointment, simply call 469-620-0222. You can also fill out our online appointment form and we will take it from there.