Gallbladder Surgery: Safe, Minimally Invasive, and Proven
In surgery, careful risk-benefit assessment is always key: Is waiting or surgery the safer option? In the case of gallstones, the answer is often clear. Gallbladder removal is a well-established, minimally invasive routine procedure with a low complication rate. In contrast, the consequences of untreated gallstone disease can be severe.
Why is gallbladder removal often the safer choice?
Gallstones form when components of bile solidify. The gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile produced in the liver, which is essential for digesting fats like cholesterol and triglycerides. Without a gallbladder, digestion usually functions normally, as bile continues to flow directly into the small intestine.
When stones are present in the gallbladder, it has to contract against them. This may lead to a stone slipping into the bile ducts or to inflammation of the gallbladder. Such complications can include:
- Biliary colic: Intense, cramping pain in the upper abdomen
- Acute cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder
- Pancreatitis: A potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas
- Jaundice (icterus) if the bile duct becomes blocked
- (Rare) Gallbladder cancer in the case of chronic inflammation
These risks strongly favor surgical removal of the gallbladder. Without treatment, the likelihood of serious, potentially life-threatening complications increases.
How is the gallbladder removed?
Gallbladder removal is now almost always performed via minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery (“keyhole surgery”). A large abdominal incision is rarely needed. The procedure can be done on a day-surgery basis, though we typically recommend an overnight stay for monitoring.
Procedure at a glance:
- Duration: Approx. 30–60 minutes
- Hospital stay: Usually one night
- Recovery: Most patients can return home the day after surgery
- Post-op care: Avoid lifting heavy objects (over 5 kg) for four weeks
Life without a gallbladder – what does it mean?
In most cases, the absence of the gallbladder has no negative effect on digestion. If stones were present, the gallbladder had likely already lost its function. The body typically adapts quickly. Rarely, patients may experience diarrhea after fatty meals.
Diet after surgery:
- A low-fat diet is recommended in the first few weeks
- After 1–3 weeks, fatty foods like chocolate or cheese can be gradually reintroduced
- If pressure or diarrhea occurs, the body may still be adjusting
- In rare cases, long-term digestive issues may arise with high-fat diets
Scars and wound healing:
The small incisions are closed with plastic-surgical sutures that dissolve on their own, typically resulting in minimal scarring.
Summary:
Gallbladder surgery is a safe and proven procedure that can prevent serious complications like biliary colic, inflammation, or even cancer. Thanks to modern minimally invasive techniques, recovery time is short and quality of life is generally unaffected.
Do you have questions or want to schedule a consultation? We are happy to provide thorough and personalized advice.
