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Gallbladder Surgery Q & A
by Brian Citro, MDWhat is the gallbladder and why would I need surgery?
Dr. Citro might recommend gallbladder surgery for several reasons, including:
- Cholelithiasis, or gallstones in the gallbladder
- Choledocholithiasis, or gallstones in the bile duct
- Cholecystitis, or gallbladder inflammation
- Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas due to gallstones
A Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is the small, pouch-like organ near your liver that stores the digestive fluid, called bile. If gallstones develop and stop the flow of bile, surgery might be necessary.
How does the doctor use the da Vinci system to perform gallbladder surgery?
Using the da Vinci Single-Site technology to perform gallbladder surgery allows Dr. Citro to make one small incision using miniature instruments that are far more flexible and dexterous than the human hand. The robotic-assisted technology is minimally invasive and translates the surgeon’s hand movements allowing for maximum precision and control.
The scarring from this surgery is minimal and even nonexistent in some cases. Dr. Citro offers minimally invasive gallbladder surgery, to give you the best outcome possible.
How should I prepare for my gallbladder surgery?
Dr. Citro gives you all the necessary information to prepare you for your upcoming surgery. You might be asked to:
- Eat nothing the night before
- Stop taking your medications or supplements
- Stick to a special diet
Like any surgery, you must plan ahead for your recovery. Some patients can return home on the same day of their surgery, but others might need to stay overnight.
You’ll be monitored by a nurse or doctor, and they’ll decide when you’re ready to be sent home. However, you won’t be allowed to drive, so you need to get someone to drive for you.
You’ll also need to rearrange your schedule to allow enough time to do just what the doctor ordered: Lie in bed and rest. You should also stay in touch with your nurse or Dr. Citro and keep them informed of your progress.
