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A laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that removes the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. This procedure is commonly performed to treat gallbladder issues such as gallstones, inflammation, or infection. Removing the gallbladder can alleviate pain and prevent recurrent issues associated with these conditions.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is recommended for treating several gallbladder-related conditions. Common indications include:
Gallstones can lead to pain, inflammation, or infection in the gallbladder. Removing the gallbladder eliminates the source of the stones, providing relief from symptoms and preventing future complications.
This condition involves inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by gallstones. It often results in severe pain and infection. Surgery to remove the inflamed gallbladder prevents recurrence.
This condition occurs when the gallbladder is not able to empty its contents due to blockage from a gallstone resulting in abdominal pain. Removing the gallbladder solves this problem.
These are growths within the gallbladder that have the potential to become cancerous. Removal of the gallbladder eliminates the risk associated with these polyps.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several advantages compared to traditional open surgery.
The smaller incisions used in laparoscopic surgery typically result in less pain than the larger incisions required for open surgery, leading to a more comfortable recovery.
Patients often experience faster healing and a shorter hospital stay, allowing them to resume normal activities more quickly.
Smaller incisions decrease the exposure of internal organs to external contaminants, potentially lowering the risk of postoperative infections.
Proper preparation is necessary before undergoing a laparoscopic cholecystectomy to ensure a safe and smooth procedure.
Patients will undergo a thorough medical evaluation, including blood tests and imaging studies, to assess their overall health and plan for surgery. This helps to identify any potential risks or complications that must be addressed.
Patients are usually required to fast, typically from the night before the surgery, to ensure the stomach is empty during the procedure. This reduces the risk of aspiration during anaesthesia.
Patients may need to adjust their medications before surgery, especially blood thinners or other medications that affect blood clotting. This helps reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure.
A laparoscopic cholecystectomy follows a structured series of steps to safely and effectively remove the gallbladder.
Careful post-operative care and a well-managed recovery process are key to ensuring proper healing and minimising complications.
After surgery, patients are transferred to a recovery area where vital signs are closely monitored. Pain is managed with medication, and the patient is observed for complications like bleeding or reactions to anaesthesia. Once stable, the patient can gradually resume drinking and light eating.
Most patients are discharged on the same day or within 24 hours. Recovery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, with the first week focused on rest and avoiding strenuous activities. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation. Gradual resumption of daily activities is recommended in weeks 2 to 4, while heavy lifting should be avoided until 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery. Most patients can return to normal routines after a final check-up with their surgeon.
Consult our MOH-accredited specialist for an accurate diagnosis & personalised treatment plan today.
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is generally safe, but risks include infection, bleeding, bile duct injury, and blood clots. Infections may cause redness, swelling, or fever and can be treated with antibiotics. Minor bleeding is common, but severe cases might require further treatment. Rare bile duct injuries may lead to bile leakage, needing corrective procedures. Blood clots, particularly in the legs, can be prevented with blood thinners and compression devices during recovery.
MBBS (S’pore)|
M.Med (Surgery)|
MRCS (Ireland)|
FRCS (Edin)|
王健名医生
Dr. Calvin Ong is a Senior Consultant with more than 15 years of surgical experience. He specializes in colorectal and general surgery, performing minimally invasive as well as advanced robotic surgeries for benign and malignant colorectal conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, pelvic floor disorders, colorectal cancer, and hernia repair. He is dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised care for his patients.
Dr. Ong graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in medicine and surgery from the National University of Singapore in 2008 and completed his Masters of Medicine (Surgery) at the same institute. He finished his advanced specialist training in 2016 and became a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
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Most people can digest food normally without the gallbladder. Bile will flow directly from the liver to the small intestine, but some patients may experience temporary changes in digestion, such as loose stools or bloating, which typically improve over time.
Initially, a low-fat diet is recommended to ease digestion, but most patients can gradually return to a regular diet. It is advisable to avoid fatty, greasy, or spicy foods initially, as they can cause digestive discomfort.
Keep the incision sites clean and dry. Avoid soaking in baths or swimming until the incisions are fully healed, monitor for signs of infection and follow instructions on wound care.
Most people do not experience long-term effects from gallbladder removal. However, some individuals may have changes in bowel habits or experience mild digestive issues, which usually resolve over time.