The gall bladder (or cholecyst) is a small organ whose function in the body is to harbor bile and aid in the digestive process. It is located on the right side of the upper abdomen. Diseases affecting this organ include gallstones (crystalline bodies obstructing the gall bladder), cancers or cholecystitis (inflammation of the gall bladder).

The gall bladder may need to be removed surgically (this is called cholecystectomy) to treat symptomatic gallstones that may cause obstruction, swelling or infection, or if cancer is suspected.

Procedure information
There are two procedures for gall bladder removal surgery. The type of procedure used will be chosen by the doctor according to the patient’s disease and condition. The traditional option is called ‘open cholecystectomy’, an invasive procedure. A large incision (10 to 18cms) is made below the ribs on the right side of the abdomen. Through this incision the surgeon removes the gall bladder, then the incision is closed with stitches or staples.

The now standard procedure called ‘laparoscopic cholecystectomy’ is when small incisions are made in the belly area to allow the insertion of surgical instruments and of a small video camera (called a laparoscope). After lifting up the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide to provide the surgeon with more space to work in, the doctor than uses the instruments to remove the gall bladder. The procedure is controlled on a video monitor.

In both procedures the different ducts and vessels going to the gall bladder are clipped and then cut. Once the gall bladder is separated from the liver bed, it is removed through an incision.

Recovery time
Open gall bladder removal surgery involves staying up to three days at the hospital after surgery. Patients are required to take some rest at home and usually fully recover can be expected after some weeks (up to four weeks).

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy does not require cuts into the abdominal muscles and the recovery is therefore faster, with less pain and fewer complications. Therefore the patient is usually allowed to go home 24 hours after surgery. In a week most patients return to their normal occupations.