Gallstones are a common problem that causes severe pain and suffering. The best way to prevent recurring gallstones is to remove the gallbladder.
What
Gallstones are hard, pebble-like substances that form in the gallbladder. The stones form when the liquid in the gallbladder harden, making it difficult and painful to release.
Treatment
Gallbladder surgery is a laparoscopic procedure, which means the gallbladder and gallstones are removed from small cuts made in the abdomen, rather than cutting the patient open.
Recovery
Removing the gallbladder will cause the patient discomfort up to a week after the procedure. Most people resume their normal activities 10 days later.
Effects
Pain in the abdomen can last up to a week due to gas and bloating from the surgery. Some people report muscle aches and nausea as a result of the anesthesia. Occasionally, the site of the incision become inflamed or infected.
Warning
Risks of gallbladder surgery are not likely but include: internal bleeding, injury to the common bile duct, injury to the small intestine by one of the instruments used during surgery, injury to the cystic duct, which carries bile from the gallbladder to the common bile duct, gallstones that remain in the abdominal cavity, bile that leaks into the abdominal cavity, or the liver being cut.
