A cholecystectomy is surgery to remove your gallbladder — an organ below your liver on the upper right side of your abdomen. Your gallbladder stores digestive fluid called bile made by your liver.
Surgeons use cholecystectomy to treat pain caused by gallstones, which block the flow of bile. This procedure can provide relief from digestive conditions such as cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation) and pancreatitis (pancreas inflammation).
This procedure is sometimes done if the gallbladder is not working properly. Gallbladder problems can cause indigestion, nausea and abdominal pain after eating.
The Procedure
Your doctor and care team will discuss treatment options, including procedures, benefits and risks. You may have one of these types of procedures:
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy — Surgeons insert a tiny digital camera and special surgical tools through small incisions in your abdomen. Using image-guided technology and tools, doctors view and remove the gallbladder through these incisions.
- Open cholecystectomy — Surgeons make a single large incision and remove your gallbladder.
Preparing for Surgery
Your care team provides individualized instructions about how to prepare for surgery — including when to stop eating and drinking. Pre-surgery testing may include:
- Blood tests
- Liver and kidney tests
- X-rays
- Ultrasound
- Electrocardiogram (EKG)
Your doctor reviews your condition and may ask you to stop taking aspirin or other medications and supplements.
Temple Health Expertise
At Temple Health, our specialists work together to help you manage kidney failure and other conditions. With decades of experience in gastroenterology and surgery, we understand the complex problems of gallbladder, pancreas and related digestive disorders. Our highlights include:
- Leading doctors — “Top Doctors” and Best Doctors in America® rank Temple Health physicians among the region’s most outstanding healthcare providers. Learn about your doctors and care team.
- Acute-care hospital — Temple University Hospital (TUH) is one of the region's most respected academic medical centers. As Temple Health’s acute-care cornerstone, TUH provides exceptional cross-specialty care. Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus provides advanced surgical services in a convenient, community-based setting.
Ready for an Appointment?
Find a doctor near you, request an appointment, or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.
