Cholecystectomy

Are you suffering from severe abdominal pain, nausea, or jaundice due to gallstones or other gallbladder issues? Dr Peter Taylor specialises in Cholecystectomy — a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. This procedure can provide lasting relief and prevent serious complications, ensuring a healthier, pain-free life.

With years of expertise and a commitment to patient care, Dr Taylor offers both laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy options tailored to your specific needs. Discover how this essential surgery can restore your quality of life and well-being.

What is a Cholecystectomy?

A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver.

This surgery is commonly performed to treat gallstones and other gallbladder conditions.

When is a Cholecystectomy Needed?

A cholecystectomy is usually recommended for individuals experiencing the following conditions:

• Cholelithiasis — gallstones in the gallbladder
• Choledocholithiasis — gallstones in the bile duct
• Cholecystitis — gallbladder inflammation
• Gallstone Pancreatitis — pancreas inflammation caused by gallstones
• Gallbladder Polyps

What Are the Signs That You May Need a Cholecystectomy?

Symptoms that may indicate the need for a cholecystectomy include:

• Severe abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right or middle abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

What Can You Expect From the Procedure?

A cholecystectomy can be performed using two main techniques:

This is the most common method for removing the gallbladder. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and involves making several small incisions in the abdomen.

Through one of these incisions, a laparoscope (a thin tube with a camera) is inserted, allowing Dr Taylor to view the inside of the abdomen on a monitor. Surgical instruments are inserted through the other incisions to carefully remove the gallbladder.

In cases where laparoscopic surgery is not suitable, an open cholecystectomy may be performed. This involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to directly access and remove the gallbladder.

While this method is more invasive and typically requires a longer hospital stay and recovery period, it is sometimes due to the patient’s specific medical conditions or complications during surgery.

What is Recovery Like?

After a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, most patients can go home the same day or the next day and usually resume normal activities within a week.

On the other hand, open cholecystectomy may require a hospital stay of 2-4 days, with a recovery period extending to 4-6 weeks.

Dr Taylor will provide detailed post-operative care instructions tailored to your individual needs, including dietary changes and activity restrictions, to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you are experiencing symptoms related to gallbladder issues, contact Dr Peter Taylor to discuss your treatment options and determine if a cholecystectomy is right for you.