Tens of millions of people throughout the US suffer from symptoms caused by gallbladder disease. As a result, gallbladder removal surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the country. We've performed many of these procedures and can offer expert care in a compassionate setting.

What is gallbladder surgery?

Also referred to as a cholecystectomy, gallbladder surgery is a cure for gallstones and gallbladder dysfunction. It can also be used as a treatment for people who have gallbladder cancer.

What are the benefits of gallbladder surgery?

The gallbladder is a small pouch that stores bile, which is produced by your liver to help you digest fat. It is located under your liver. Gallstones are small clumps or “stones” of cholesterol and bile that can form inside your gallbladder. Most gallstones do not cause any symptoms or require any treatment. However, in some cases, gallstones can block the flow of bile from the gallbladder, or directly irritate the wall of the gallbladder. This can lead to pain, nausea, bloating, and other symptoms.  Left untreated, symptomatic gallstones can cause severe infection, or lead to emergency surgery.

Some patients have gallbladder symptoms with no gallstones at all from a condition known as dysmotility.  This happens when the gallbladder doesn’t function properly, and can cause symptoms just as severe as stones can.   

Removing the gallbladder can eliminate these uncomfortable symptoms. Most people experience a return to normal eating habits rapidly, and are permanently free from symptoms. About 1% of patients develop diarrhea after surgery that requires medication to control. With the exception of the medication needed, these patients have relief of symptoms as well.

Types of gallbladder surgery

Gallbladder removal surgery can be performed in two main ways: laparoscopic surgery and open surgery. In nearly all cases, Laparoscopic surgery is the best option. It is less invasive and involves just a few small incisions in the abdomen. It involves faster healing and recovery. Most people can go home the same day they have their surgery. However, for some individuals, open surgery is a safer option. This can include people who have certain medical conditions or who've experienced a complex surgical history.  Gallbladder removal is a safe procedure that only rarely has complications. Over one million gallbladder removals are performed every year.

Who is a good candidate for gallbladder surgery?

If you have gallbladder disease that is causing painful symptoms, you may be a candidate for gallbladder surgery. These symptoms can include:

• nausea.
• vomiting.
• back pain.
• shoulder pain.
• abdominal pain, particularly after eating a meal.
• Bloating
• Belching
• Intolerance to high fat foods

Your physician can discuss your symptoms and make a recommendation. If you have been diagnosed with gallstones that are causing pain or complications, talk to a surgeon about removal. Removal is usually the best treatment for gallbladder disease. However, some individuals with other health problems may not be able to safely have gallbladder removal surgery. These individuals may, instead, have surgery to place a tube to drain the gallbladder, and treat infection.

Why choose The Surgery Group for gallbladder surgery?

At The Surgery Group, we maintain our skills and expertise by staying current with the latest surgical techniques available today and always look to enhance your experience as a patient.

We believe in a traditional and compassionate doctor-patient relationship. Our surgeons and staff are happy to answer patient and family questions so that you understand your options, any risks and the postoperative behavior that will help you heal most quickly and get back to your regular life. We offer skilled and professional service in a relaxing environment. Have you been referred for gallbladder surgery? Get in touch today. We can discuss your condition and the best treatment options for you.