Do you like eating fatty foods, and have you been experiencing severe abdominal pain? If so, your doctor might recommend a procedure called cholecystectomy. As you read this article, you’ll be able to understand what cholecystectomy is in simple terms. This is a guide for you on what to expect in case you need this common surgery.
What is Cholecystectomy?
A small, pear-shaped organ located just beneath your liver on the right side of your abdomen is the gallbladder. Its main job is to store bile, a digestive fluid produced by your liver that helps break down fats. When problems develop with your gallbladder, most commonly gallstones, gallbladder removal surgery may be necessary. This procedure is called cholecystectomy.
Why Might You Need a Cholecystectomy?
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in your gallbladder. Once the gallbladder has the presence of gallstones, these can block the flow of bile, causing:
- Sudden, intense abdominal pain (often called a gallbladder attack)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever and chills
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis)
Gallbladder polyps, gallbladder inflammation without stones, or, in rare cases, gallbladder cancer are the other conditions that might require cholecystectomy.
Types of Cholecystectomy Procedures
In Singapore, cholecystectomy is typically performed using one of two methods:
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: This minimally invasive approach is the most common type of gallbladder surgery performed in Singapore and worldwide. During this procedure, the surgeon makes several small incisions in your abdomen and inserts a tiny camera and specialized surgical tools to remove your gallbladder. The benefits include less pain, smaller scars, and a quicker recovery time – usually just a few days.
Open Cholecystectomy: Sometimes, a traditional open surgery is necessary. This involves making a larger incision in your abdomen to remove the gallbladder. This approach might be needed if you have severe inflammation, scarring from previous surgeries, or other complications. Recovery from open cholecystectomy typically takes longer, often 1-2 weeks.
Cholecystectomy Singapore specialists are known for their expertise in minimally invasive techniques, with many hospitals offering advanced laparoscopic and even robotic-assisted procedures that further enhance precision and recovery times.
Life After Gallbladder Removal
One of the most common questions patients have is: “How will I digest food without a gallbladder?” The good news is that your body can function perfectly well without this organ. After cholecystectomy, bile flows directly from your liver into your small intestine rather than being stored in the gallbladder first.
Most people who undergo cholecystectomy procedures return to their normal diet and activities without major changes. Some individuals might experience softer stools or more frequent bowel movements in the first few weeks after surgery, but these symptoms typically improve with time.
What to Expect Before and After Surgery
If you’re scheduled for a cholecystectomy in Singapore, you’ll likely:
- Have pre-surgery tests to ensure you’re healthy enough for the procedure
- Need to fast for several hours before surgery
- Stay in the hospital for a few hours to a few days, depending on the type of procedure
- Receive instructions for wound care and activity restrictions
- Have a follow-up appointment to check your recovery progress
With an excellent success rate worldwide, cholecystectomy is considered the most common surgical procedure. Singapore has skilled specialists who perform many cholecystectomy procedures every year, and the healthcare system offers world-class surgical care.
The thought of a surgery could make you feel anxious; however, removing a problematic gallbladder often brings significant relief from pain and prevents potentially serious complications in the future. Remember, if you’re experiencing gallbladder symptoms, consulting with a healthcare provider is the first step toward determining if cholecystectomy might be right for you.
