Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)

Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, a pear-shaped organ beneath the liver that stores bile. It is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in the US, with approximately 750,000 procedures annually. Over 90% are performed laparoscopically.

The procedure is performed to treat gallstones and their complications, including biliary colic (intense abdominal pain), cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), choledocholithiasis (stones in the bile duct), and gallstone pancreatitis. Gallstones affect 10-15% of US adults.

You will fast for at least 8 hours before surgery. Your surgeon may order blood tests and imaging. Inform your doctor about all medications, especially blood thinners. A pre-operative assessment includes review of allergies and anesthesia history.

Under general anesthesia, the surgeon makes 3-4 small incisions in the abdomen for laparoscopic surgery. A camera and instruments are inserted, the gallbladder is detached from the liver, and removed through one of the incisions. The procedure typically takes 45-90 minutes.

Most patients go home the same day after laparoscopic surgery. You can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks. Dietary changes may be needed temporarily as your body adjusts to digesting fats without a gallbladder. Some patients experience loose stools initially.

Risks include bile duct injury (0.3-0.5%), bleeding, infection, bile leak, injury to surrounding organs, and post-cholecystectomy syndrome (persistent digestive symptoms in 10-15% of patients).

For patients who cannot undergo surgery, medications like ursodiol can slowly dissolve cholesterol gallstones over months. ERCP can remove bile duct stones. However, these alternatives have high recurrence rates and surgery remains the definitive treatment.

Covered by most insurance plans when medically necessary. Typically requires prior documentation of gallstones with symptoms. Emergency cholecystectomy is covered without prior authorization.