Gallbladder surgery Melbourne

What is gallbladder surgery?

Are you searching for gallbladder surgery Melbourne? Gallbladder surgery is a surgical procedure that is also called cholecystectomy. It involves the total removal of the gallbladder. The procedure is usually done laparoscopically via minimally invasive keyhole surgery. It can also be performed via robotic surgery through a single small incision near the belly button. There are usually no significant long-term issues after having your gall bladder removed.

What is the gallbladder?

The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ that sits below the liver. It stores bile which is a secretion made by the liver before sending it to the small intestine to help digest fats in our diet. Problems can occur in the gallbladder when the bile combines with calcium salts and cholesterol. These three compounds can form stones in the gall bladder can cause inflammation, obstruction, pain and vomiting. This is known as cholecystitis.

How are gallstones diagnosed?

Gallstones are usually diagnosed through an ultrasound, MRI scan, CT scan or cholangiography (a dye injected into the bile ducts is tracked using X-ray imaging).

How is laparoscopic cholecystectomy performed?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is performed under general anaesthesia. Your surgeon makes four small incisions around the belly button (in the abdomen) . A laparoscope (a long thin tube with a camera attached) is inserted through one incision. This gives your surgeon a clear view. Surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions. Your surgeon carefully detaches the gallbladder and removes it through one of the incisions. The incisions are then closed. The operation usually takes less than an hour to complete.

GALLBLADDER SURGERY AT A GLANCE

Minimally invasive keyhole surgery
Return to normal activities in 7-10 days*
Effective treatment for cholecystitis
Usually, no long-term issues following removal of the gallbladder.
*Most people return to normal activities after 7 -14 days. If open surgery is required, you may need 3-4 weeks off work.

What can I expect after surgery?

After gallbladder surgery, you will be given pain relievers and kept comfortable. You will be encouraged to walk around gently. Your wounds will be covered with a waterproof dressing which will stay on until you have your post-operative review appointment. You will be able to shower as normal. *Most people return to normal activities after 7 -14 days. If open surgery is required, you may need 3-4 weeks off work.

Most people who have this procedure lose roughly 10 – 20 kilograms in the first six months. From here we support you to make healthy choices around diet and exercise so that you can continue and/or maintain this achievement.