Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that is tucked under your liver. It stores bile, a fluid that is made in the liver and helps the body break down fat.
A cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, this can be done laparoscopically, or via open surgery.
Most gallbladders are removed laparoscopically, this is minimally invasive surgery using 3/4 small incisions and special instruments and cameras.
WHY WOULD SOMEONE HAVE THEIR GALLBLADDER REMOVED?
The most common reason is to treat gallstones. Gallstones are small stones that form inside the gallbladder. These stones can block the ducts that bile flows through. The stones can cause inflammation, pain, and other symptoms.
People can also have gallbladder removal to treat cancer of the gallbladder. But if cancer is the reason for the surgery, it usually involves removing more than just the gallbladder.
