33a Myoora Road, Terrey Hills NSW 2084 | Tel 94608711 | Fax 94362103

Diagram of human digestive system showing stomach and liver with an arrow indicating digestion or absorption.

Gallbladder Surgery

The gallbladder is part of the biliary system. The biliary system transports bile from the liver to the intestine to aid in digestion. The gallbladder may need to be removed if stones or polyps develop within the gallbladder leading to symptoms such as pain or jaundice.

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Sterile surgical instruments including forceps and surgical scissors in clear plastic packaging on a blue sterile drape, on a white countertop.

Gallbladder Removal

Gallbladder removal is performed as a laparoscopic (keyhole) procedure through 4 small incisions. Following gallbladder surgery, patients are discharged from hospital later the same day of surgery or the following morning.

INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOWING LAPAROSCOPIC CHOLECYSTECTOMY

Dressings and incisions

You will have four small incisions. When you leave hospital, these will be covered with water-proof dressings. It is fine to shower. It is not unusual for there to be a small amount of blood under the dressings. Remove these dressings one week after the day of your surgery. There will be small sutures (stitches) under the skin which will dissolve. You should not swim in a pool or the ocean for two weeks following your surgery.

Activities

You should take things easy for a few days after your surgery. You should not drive for five days after your surgery provided you are comfortable and alert. You can walk as much as you like after surgery including stairs. You should not lift anything heavier than 10kgs for four weeks after surgery. Resistance exercise such as going to the gym, Pilates, or bike riding should be avoided for four weeks after surgery.

Constipation

It is common for patients to experience constipation after any surgery. Stool softeners or mild laxatives should be taken following surgery to avoid constipation.

Diet

Following your gallbladder surgery, you need not make any specific changes to your diet. Some patients may experience some diarrhea following their gallbladder surgery, particularly with fatty foods. This should resolve after a few weeks.