Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
Gallstones are common and cause no symptoms in most people. When attacks of pain begin, or when inflammation, jaundice or pancreatitis develops, removal of the gallbladder is the standard treatment.
About gallbladder surgery
- The operation removes the entire gallbladder, not just the stones; removing stones alone allows them to form again.
- In the great majority of patients it is performed by the keyhole (laparoscopic) method.
- One overnight stay in hospital is usually enough.
- Digestion continues without a gallbladder; bile flows directly from the liver into the bowel.
- Where stones cause no symptoms, the decision to operate is made individually.
When surgery is needed
Attacks of pain in the upper right abdomen radiating to the back and worsening after fatty meals are the typical symptom of gallstones. Surgery is advised once these symptoms begin, because attacks usually recur and the risk of inflammation rises over time.
Fever, jaundice, dark urine or severe abdominal pain may indicate inflammation of the gallbladder, obstruction of the bile duct or pancreatitis, all of which require urgent assessment.
How the operation is performed
Several small ports are placed around the navel and in the upper right abdomen. The cystic duct and artery are carefully identified, clipped and divided, and the gallbladder is separated from its bed on the liver.
The gallbladder is retrieved through one of the small incisions and sent for pathological examination. Where adhesions or inflammation prevent the anatomy from being seen safely, conversion to open surgery may be necessary.
Eating after surgery
A light, low-fat diet is advised in the first days. Most patients return to normal eating in stages over the following weeks.
Some people notice temporarily looser or more frequent stools, particularly after fatty meals. This usually settles within a few weeks.
Key facts
| Operating time | About 30–60 minutes |
|---|---|
| Method | Laparoscopic (open if required) |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Hospital stay | Usually 1 day |
| Return to work | About 1 week |
| Diet | Low in fat for the first 2–3 weeks |
Frequently asked questions
Will my digestion suffer if the gallbladder is removed?
No. Bile continues to be produced by the liver and flows directly into the bowel. Sensitivity to fatty food can occur in the first weeks and resolves with time.
Can only the stones be removed?
They can, but as long as the gallbladder remains the stones re-form. Removing the gallbladder is therefore the standard treatment.
I have stones but no symptoms. Should I have surgery?
Follow-up is generally advised for stones causing no symptoms. Surgery may still be recommended in situations such as diabetes, numerous small stones, a thickened gallbladder wall or a polyp; the decision is individual.
When can I drive after the operation?
Once the need for painkillers has eased and sudden movements are no longer uncomfortable, usually within a few days.
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not replace a consultation. The treatment that suits you can only be determined after examination and tests.
Appointments and enquiries
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