Gallbladder Removal
Am I a candidate?Gallbladder removal surgery is a very common procedure used to treat gallstones. Gallstones can cause serious complications if left untreated.
The gallbladder doesn’t perform vital functions for the body and patients can live a normal and healthy life after it is removed. At the Dr. Susan Seman Solution, we provide safe and effective gallbladder removal for our patients in Township.
Details
What it Treats
Gallstones
Gallbladder inflammation
Polyps
Pancreas inflammation
Procedure Length
About 1 hour
Recovery
Laparoscopic or minimally invasive gallbladder removals are usually performed as an outpatient procedure and don’t require an overnight hospital stay. Most patients are back to work 3 to 5 days after surgery.
What's the process for gallbladder removal in Township?
01
General Procedure
Gallbladder removals are performed under general anesthesia. There are 3 ways we perform gallbladder removal: open, laparoscopic, and robotic.
02
Laparoscopic
Gallbladder removal is most commonly performed as a laparoscopic procedure. Your surgeon will make a few small incisions in your abdomen, then insert a small video camera and tools. Your gallbladder is removed through one of the incisions using the tools.
03
Robotic
A "robotic" gallbladder removal is simply a laparoscopic procedure assisted by technology that allows for only one small incision rather than several.
04
Open
In some cases, during a laparoscopic procedure it may be necessary to switch to an open gallbladder removal. This may be due to complications during the operation. The majority of gallbladder removals are performed using the laparoscopic technique.
05
Next Steps
After your procedure we'll provide you with instructions for post-operative care to assist in your healing and recovery. Most patients are back to regular activities within a few days, though strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
Who needs to receive a gallbladder removal in Township?
Most often, gallbladder removal is performed to treat gallstones. Gallstones are created by hardened digestive fluid. Patients who don’t experience symptoms from gall stones don’t typically need treatment.
Common symptoms of gallstones:
- Sudden intensifying pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen
- Back pain between the shoulder blades
- Pain in your right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
After your treatment
Most patients are able to return to work within 3 to 5 days of their surgery. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
Frequently asked questions about gallbladder removal in Township.
What causes gallstones?
It's not clear what causes gallstones. Doctors think they can be caused by high cholesterol, when your bile has too much bilirubin (a chemical produced from breaking down red blood cells), or if your gallbladder doesn't empty correctly.
How long is the recovery after a gallbladder removal?
Most patients are able to return to work within 3 to 5 days of their surgery. Strenuous activity should be avoided for at least 2 weeks.
Do I have to have my gallbladder removed right away?
When there is clear indication for surgery, it's important to operate as soon as possible. You will risk complications if the gallbladder is not removed because gallstones do not go away.
