Gallbladder issues, such as gallstones or gallbladder disease, can cause significant discomfort and affect your quality of life. The gallbladder plays a key role in digestion by storing and releasing bile to help break down fats. However, certain conditions can lead to pain, nausea and other digestive problems. If left untreated, these conditions may worsen and require surgical intervention.
What is gallbladder surgery?
Gallbladder surgery, also known as cholecystectomy, is a common procedure to remove the gallbladder when it becomes problematic. The procedure is typically recommended for patients with gallstones, gallbladder inflammation, or other gallbladder diseases. Advances in surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgery, have made gallbladder removal safer, with faster recovery times, allowing patients to return to their normal activities more quickly.
When is gallbladder surgery recommended?
Gallbladder surgery may be necessary if you experience symptoms that don’t improve with medication or dietary changes, such as:
- Pain: Severe abdominal pain, particularly after eating.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Ongoing digestive distress.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile duct obstruction.
- Infection: Fever or chills caused by infection in the gallbladder.
What conditions affect the gallbladder?
At NGPG we treat a wide range of gallbladder-related conditions, including:
- Gallstones
Hard deposits that form in the gallbladder and can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and bloating, especially after meals. - Gallbladder Inflammation (Cholecystitis)
An infection or inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones. - Gallbladder Disease
Conditions affecting gallbladder function that lead to digestive issues and pain. - Gallbladder Cancer
A rare but serious condition requiring specialized treatment and care.
What are the symptoms of gallstones?
Common symptoms of gallstones include:
- Abdominal pain, especially after eating
- Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Fever or chills (if infection is present)
How are gallbladder conditions treated?
At NGPG Surgical Associates we offer the most advanced techniques to treat gallbladder conditions. Our process begins with a thorough evaluation, including medical history, physical exam and imaging tests like ultrasound. From there, we determine the best treatment approach.
Gallbladder treatment options include:
- Medication and Dietary Changes
In some cases, gallbladder symptoms can be managed with medications or by adjusting your diet. - Minimally Invasive Gallbladder Removal
We use the da Vinci Surgical System to perform a minimally invasive cholecystectomy. This approach reduces pain, hospital stays and recovery times. - Traditional Open Gallbladder Surgery
If minimally invasive surgery isn’t suitable, an open procedure will be performed to safely remove the gallbladder.
What are the benefits of Robotic Laparoscopic Gallbladder Removal?
Our minimally invasive gallbladder removal procedures, performed using the da Vinci Surgical System, offer several benefits:
- Smaller incisions and minimal scarring
- Reduced pain and lower risk of complications
- Shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times
- Decreased need for narcotic pain medication
- Most procedures are outpatient, meaning you can return home the same day.
How long is the recovery time for gallbladder surgery?
Recovery time depends on the type of surgery performed:
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Most patients go home the same day and can return to normal activities within 7–10 days. - Open Surgery
If an open procedure is required, hospital stays typically range from 2–4 days, with full recovery taking several weeks.
Choose NGPG for Gallbladder Surgery
At NGPG Surgical Associates our team of board-certified general surgeons provides expert care for gallbladder conditions using the latest technologies and minimally invasive techniques. We work closely with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan that minimizes recovery time and supports a quick return to daily activities.
If you are experiencing gallbladder symptoms or need a consultation for gallbladder surgery, contact NGPG Surgical Associates. Call us at 770-285-5255 or use the form on this page to schedule an appointment.