A cholecystectomy is an operation in which the gallbladder is taken out. A more extensive surgery also takes out part of the liver around the gallbladder, the bile duct, and nearby lymph nodes. The lymph nodes act as filters that help trap and remove cancer cells and other unwanted substances from the body.

Since Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy does not require the abdominal muscle to be cut, it is less painful, quicker to heal and has fewer complications. Patients who have undergone Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy can be discharged on the same or following day as the procedure, and can go back to their jobs in about a week.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy begins by making several small incisions in the abdomen to allow the insertion of surgical instruments and a small video camera. The camera sends a magnified image from inside the body to a video monitor which gives the surgeon a close-up view of the organs and tissues. As the surgeon watches the monitor, he does the operation by manipulating the surgical instruments through the separate small incisions.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy only requires the patient to stay in the hospital for a short while after the procedure. The patient can go home in the same or following day of the procedure. Recovery period is also short and yet the outcome is good, relieving 90 percent of the symptoms found before undergoing the procedure.

Care for patients who have undergone Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is similar to that of any patient who went through surgery with general anesthesia. Walking and a bit of exercise are suggested. Patients are advised to gradually resume normal activities after 3 days. Avoid heavy lifting for about 10 days. Patients can return to work approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure.

No. Most surgeons would not recommend laparoscopic cholecystectomy in those with pre-existing disease conditions. Patients with cardiac diseases and COPD should not be considered a good candidate for laparoscopy. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy may also be more difficult in patients who have had previous upper abdominal surgery. The elderly may also be at increased risk for complications with general anaesthesia combined with pneumoperitoneum.