Gallbladder Surgery
What is a “gallbladder attack”?
Generally, gallbladder symptoms are referred to as an “attacks” because they occur suddenly. The typical gallbladder attack includes:
- Steady, severe pain in the upper abdomen that increases and can last several hours
- Pain in the back between the shoulder blades
- Pain under the right shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gallbladder attacks often follow the intake of a fatty meal, may occur during the night and can be accompanied by excessive vomiting
- Other gallbladder symptoms include:
- Abdominal bloating
- Intolerance of fatty foods
- Belching
- Gas
- Indigestion
- Nausea, vomiting
- Fever
The following symptoms indicate that you should seek medical care immediately:
- Sweating
- Chills
- Abdominal pain
- Low-grade fever
- Yellowish tint of the skin or whites of the eyes
- Clay-colored stools
Gallbladder Treatment
The most common treatment for gallbladder symptoms is a surgical procedure referred to as a cholecystectomy. A cholecystectomy requires a large abdominal incision to remove the gallbladder; however, this procedure is now commonly performed laparoscopically. There are still rare cases where an open incision must be used. The laparoscopic procedure can be performed at a surgery center and requires only very small incisions. Laparoscopic procedures promote a speedy recovery time and, in most cases, the patient does not experience much pain.
What to Expect if Surgery is Required
The procedure is performed as an out-patient and you will go home that same day. Post-operative discomfort is usually mild and patients will rarely require pain medication.
Dr. Cole will see you in the office 7 days after your procedure and at that time will determine when you can return to your normal activities and full resumption of your regular lifestyle.
Most patients are able to get back to their normal activities within seven days after surgery and are able to fully resume their regular lifestyle after one month.