Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard treatment for gallstone disease and gallbladder-related conditions. This minimally invasive procedure removes the gallbladder through small incisions using advanced surgical techniques. The gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ beneath the liver, stores bile produced by the liver to digest fats. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia using 3-4 small incisions, typically 5-10 millimeters each. A laparoscope provides high-definition visualization of internal structures on a monitor. Carbon dioxide gas inflates the abdomen, creating space for safe instrument maneuvering. During the procedure, the surgeon identifies critical structures, including the cystic artery and cystic duct, which are clipped and divided before removing the gallbladder. The operation typically takes 1-2 hours. Benefits include significantly reduced pain, minimal scarring, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Most patients return to work within 1-2 weeks and can resume normal activities quickly. Laparoscopic surgery eliminates the need for a large abdominal incision, reducing complications and healing time. Post-surgery dietary adjustments may be needed initially, but most patients can eventually eat normally without a gallbladder. The procedure is considered safe with low complication rates.