In simple words
The gallbladder is a small bag under the liver that stores bile. When stones form in it, they cause pain, often on the right side of the stomach and often after oily food. The usual treatment is to remove the whole bag through small cuts. You can live normally without it.
Who needs this treatment
- Repeated pain on the right side of the stomach, often after oily food
- Pain with vomiting that lasts hours
- Stones seen on an ultrasound scan with symptoms
- Yellow colour in the eyes along with stomach pain
What happens, step by step
- You are given anaesthesia and sleep through the operation
- Usually four small cuts are made on the stomach
- The gallbladder with the stones inside it is removed through one of them
- The small cuts are closed
How many days it takes
-
Day of surgery
Admission and operation. You start with liquids after the surgeon allows it.
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Day 1 to 2
Discharge in most cases, with diet advice in writing.
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Week 1
Light activity at home. Many return to desk work in one to two weeks.
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Day 10
Review visit and wound check.
After you go home
- Start with light, non-oily food and increase slowly
- Walk a little every day
- Keep the wound dry as instructed
- Come back sooner if you get fever, yellow eyes, or pain that is getting worse
Please read
This page gives general information in simple words. It is not advice for your own case. What is right for you depends on your examination and your reports. Your doctor will explain your options and you decide.
Questions people ask us about this
Can the stones be removed and the gallbladder kept?
In most cases the whole gallbladder is removed, because stones usually form again if it is left. Your surgeon will explain the reason in your case.
Can I eat normally afterwards?
Most people return to a normal diet gradually. You will be given clear written advice on what to eat in the first weeks.
What happens if I do not treat it?
The pain usually returns, and the stones can cause infection or block the bile pipe. Your surgeon will explain the risk in your case.
Is it covered by insurance?
Commonly yes. Bring your policy card and the insurance desk will check before admission.
Still deciding? That is fine.
Come for a consultation, get examined and take the information home. There is no pressure to fix a date on the first visit.