Gallbladder surgery – also known as cholecystectomy – is used to treat gallstones, cancer and other disorders that affect the gallbladder. The gallbladder is the organ that stores excess bile not immediately needed for digestion. About 500,000 Americans have gallbladder surgery every year in the United States, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK).

This surgery can be performed as either laparoscopy or traditional open surgery. During laparoscopy, several small incisions are made in the abdomen and a thin, tube-like instrument called a laparoscope is inserted into the body. A camera and light attached to the laparoscope provide images of the gallbladder that are transmitted to a monitor, allowing the surgeon to view the abdominal cavity while removing the gallbladder. This technique is used in the vast majority of gallbladder surgeries because it is less invasive and reduces scarring and the potential for post-surgical pain and complications.

In some cases, infection or other obstacles (such as severe inflammation of the gallbladder or scarring from other surgeries) may prevent the use of laparoscopy. Traditional open surgery will then be performed, and the patient will likely experience a longer hospital stay and an extended recovery period.

Gallbladder surgery typically takes place in a hospital. Prior to the procedure, patients should follow any preparatory recommendations made by their physician. These may include changes to dietary and medication regimens. Patients will also be placed under general anesthesia before surgery, which means they are unconscious and do not experience pain during the procedure.

Most patients who have gallbladder surgery experience few complications. However, a significant percentage of patients will have diarrhea. This can be reduced by using antidiarrheal medications and making certain dietary changes.

Gallbladder surgery sometimes results in injury to the bile ducts. When this occurs, it may cause the bile duct to leak bile, resulting in a painful infection. If the injury is significant enough, additional surgery may be required to repair it.

Recovery from gallbladder surgery varies depending on which procedure was performed. Patients who undergo laparoscopy usually spend a single night in the hospital. Open surgery typically requires a hospital stay of between two days and one week. In both cases, patients may be asked to restrict their activities for a certain time period.