Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is surgery to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is located in the upper right part of the abdomen, behind the liver. It is a storage sac for bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. Cholecystectomy is often done for inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). This condition is usually caused by a buildup of gallstones (cholelithiasis) in the gallbladder. Gallstones can block the flow of bile, resulting in inflammation and pain. In severe cases, emergency surgery may be required. When emergency surgery is not required, you will have time to prepare for the procedure.
Laparoscopic surgery is an alternative to open surgery. Laparoscopic …show more content…
○ Your skin will be washed with soap.
• You will be given a medicine to make you fall asleep (general anesthetic).
• A breathing tube will be placed in your mouth.
• The surgeon will make several small cuts (incisions) in your abdomen.
• A thin, lighted tube with a tiny camera on the end (laparoscope) will be inserted through one of the small incisions. The camera on the laparoscope will send a picture to a TV screen in the operating room. This will give the surgeon a good view inside your abdomen.
• A gas will be pumped into your abdomen. This will expand your abdomen so that the surgeon has more room to perform the surgery.
• Other tools needed for the procedure will be inserted through the other incisions. The gallbladder will be removed through one of the incisions.
• After the removal of your gallbladder, the incisions will be closed with stitches, staples, or skin glue.
The procedure may vary among health care providers and hospitals.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE
• Your blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and blood oxygen level will be monitored often until the medicines you were given have worn