The gallbladder is located underneath the right part of the liver. This organ accumulates and concentrates bile, a digestive fluid distributed by the liver. After eating, bile is discharged from the gallbladder, supporting digestion. Gallbladder removal does not cause any harm to the digestive system in the majority of patients. It is most commonly removed laparoscopically (laparoscopic cholecystectomy).

The principal cause of gallbladder problems are gallstones, which may prevent the bile from flowing out of the gallbladder resulting in swelling and extreme abdominal pain, indigestion and vomiting. It is unsure why gallstones are formed by some people, and there are no known measures to guard against them.

Procedure information
Gallbladder removal (also known as cholecysterctomy) is performed under general anesthesia using a fine tube-like device (cannula) which is placed into the abdomen near the navel. The surgeon then inserts a tiny telescope (laparoscope) with a special camera through the cannula which sends a magnified picture of the internal organs to a TV screen. Further cannulas are added enabling the surgeon to detach the gallbladder, remove it and close the small openings with one or two stitches or surgical tape.

A minority of patients cannot submit themselves to the laparoscopic method due to obesity, prior abdominal surgery, or bleeding problems. In this case, the doctor will choose to perform or switch to an open procedure.

Recovery time
There are a few post-operative symptoms after gallbladder removal, such as vomiting and nausea. In general, patients may leave the hospital the day after the operation, with some going home on the same day. Bandages can be removed and the patient can shower the next day.

Within a week, most people are able to go back to regular activities like walking upstairs, light lifting and driving. Patients who have undergone the open procedure will generally not be capable to recommence normal activities for 4 to 6 weeks.