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Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal Surgery)

Understanding Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease

Cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal surgery, is a common surgical procedure performed to relieve symptoms caused by gallstones and gallbladder disease. The gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver, plays an important role in digesting fats by storing bile. However, when gallstones develop, they can block the gall bladder or bile ducts and lead to pain, infection, and other complications.

What is a Cholecystectomy?

Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, often performed to treat conditions caused by gallstones or inflammation. The surgery is commonly done laparoscopically (minimally invasive), using small incisions for faster recovery, though an open procedure may be recommended in very rare cases. The goal is to prevent the discomfort, complications, and lifestyle impact caused by symptomatic gallbladder disease.

Cholecystectomy in Australia

Gallbladder removal is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in Australia. Studies show that around 50,000 cholecystectomies are performed each year, with the majority being laparoscopic. This high rate of procedures reflects the prevalence of gallstone disease, affecting approximately 10-15% of Australians at some point in their lives. Women are generally more prone to developing gallstones, especially those over 40 or those with certain genetic or lifestyle factors.

Symptoms of Gallstones and Gallbladder Disease

Common symptoms of gallbladder issues include:

  • Severe pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of your abdomen.
  • Pain that radiates to the right shoulder or back.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Bloating, indigestion, and gas.
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) if bile ducts are blocked.

Symptoms often occur after eating fatty meals, as the gallbladder works harder to release bile.

Causes of Gallbladder Disease

Gallstones can form due to several factors, including:

  • Excess cholesterol in the bile.
  • Excessive bilirubin production.
  • Inadequate emptying of the gallbladder.
  • Obesity, diabetes, and certain medications.
  • Family history of gallstones.

While diet and weight management may reduce the risk, gallstone formation can still happen due to factors outside one’s control.

Diagnostic Tests

Diagnosing gallstones or gallbladder disease may involve:

  • Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging test to detect stones.
  • CT Scan: Helps identify stones or inflammation in more complex cases.
  • HIDA Scan: Evaluates bile duct function and how well the gallbladder empties.
  • Blood Tests: Assesses liver function and checks for signs of infection.

Your doctor may use one or more of these tests to confirm a diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan.

Complications of Gallbladder Disease

If untreated, gallstones can lead to:

  • Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
  • Biliary obstruction (blockage of bile ducts)
  • Cholangitis (a serious infection of the bile ducts)
  • Gallbladder rupture

These complications are often serious and require prompt treatment. Removing the gallbladder typically prevents these risks.

Treatment Options

Treatment for gallbladder disease largely depends on the severity of symptoms:

  • Observation: For those with no symptoms.
  • Cholecystectomy: The most effective and commonly recommended option for recurrent or severe symptoms.

Removing the gallbladder is not essential for life, as the liver continues to produce bile, helping digestion without a gallbladder.

For more information or to book a consultation with Dr Craven, please call us on (03) 9852 3777 or email us at info@dralexcraven.com.au.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most people can resume a regular diet, but it’s often best to avoid heavy, fatty meals initially. Over time, your body will adapt to digesting fats without a gallbladder.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy can often be performed as a day case, and other patients stay one or two nights in hospital. Typically there is a quick recovery time of about 1-2 weeks, though some patients may return to work and daily activities sooner.

Most people live a normal life without a gallbladder. A small percentage may experience occasional digestive issues, especially with fatty foods.

Since the gallbladder is removed, gallstones cannot form there. However, it is possible, though rare, for stones to form in the bile ducts.

Schedule a call with our treatment coordinator for a confidential discussion on whether surgery is the best option for you.