Gallbladder Surgery
Minimally invasive treatment for gallbladder disease.
Robotic gallbladder surgery focused on getting you back to life safely and efficiently.
Gallbladder Surgery Overview
Gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy) removes the gallbladder to treat gallstones, gallbladder disease, and related digestive symptoms.
When gallbladder conditions cause pain, inflammation, nausea, bloating, or other complications, surgery may be recommended. Dr. Porterfield and the Clarus Surgery team evaluate symptoms and imaging findings to determine the most appropriate treatment approach, including robotic-assisted surgery when appropriate.
Conditions Commonly Treated
The Clarus Surgery team diagnoses and treats:
- Gallstones
- Gallbladder disease
- Cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)
- Gallbladder attacks
- Gallbladder dysfunction
- Gallbladder polyps or cancer
- Biliary dyskinesia (pain caused by abnormal gallbladder emptying)
When Surgery Is Recommended
Gallbladder surgery may be recommended when:
- Gallstones cause pain or recurring symptoms
- Gallbladder inflammation develops
- Symptoms interfere with eating or daily activities
- Gallbladder attacks continue to occur
- Imaging findings support surgical treatment
- Gallbladder disease may impact other surrounding organs
Clarus Surgical Approach
At Clarus Surgery, gallbladder treatment plans are individualized based on each patient’s symptoms, imaging findings, anatomy, and treatment goals. When appropriate, robotic-assisted surgery may be utilized to support recovery and optimize outcomes. The Clarus Surgery team provides education, preparation guidance, and follow-up support before and after surgery.
Have questions about gallbladder surgery? Contact our team to schedule an evaluation.
Preparing for Gallbladder Surgery
Before surgery, the Clarus Surgery team and anesthesia team provide detailed preparation instructions. General preparation instructions include:
- Do not eat solid foods or consume milk, creamer, gum, candy, or mints after midnight before surgery.
- Follow instructions regarding clear liquids. If no stop time is provided, discontinue clear liquids at midnight.
- Follow medication instructions provided by your anesthesia team, and notify the Clarus Surgery team if you are taking or begin taking any prescription blood thinners before surgery.
- Have a care partner remain in the building during surgery to receive updates from your care team.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after surgery and stay with you through the first night after surgery.
Additional preparation instructions may vary depending on your medical history and treatment plan.
Recovery Following Gallbladder Surgery
Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and individual healing.
Diet & Activity Guidelines
Resume your regular diet as tolerated and begin walking shortly after surgery.
Expected Recovery Symptoms
Temporary abdominal soreness, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and shoulder discomfort may occur during recovery and generally improve over time.
Driving & Daily Activities
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Driving is generally permitted once narcotic pain medication has been discontinued for 48 hours.
Incision Care & Follow-Up Visits
Showering is permitted immediately after surgery. Follow-up is typically scheduled two weeks after surgery.
Post-Surgical Medication Guidance
Following surgery, some patients may require prescription pain medication or other medications to support recovery. Recommendations vary based on the procedure performed, medical history, and individual recovery needs.
Pain Management
Take medications as directed by your care team. Many patients gradually transition from prescription pain medication to over-the-counter pain relief as recovery progresses.
Managing Digestive Symptoms
Some patients may experience temporary digestive changes following gallbladder surgery as the body adjusts. These symptoms typically improve over time. Eating smaller meals and gradually reintroducing fatty foods may help during recovery.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact our team immediately if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent bleeding
- Significant abdominal swelling
- Fever greater than 101.5°F
- Pain not relieved with medication
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
- White, yellow, or green drainage from the incision
Small amounts of clear or pink-tinged drainage can be normal during early healing. After-hours calls are answered by the on-call service, which will reach Dr. Porterfield or one of his partners who is on call. If you feel your situation is an emergency, call 911 or go directly to your nearest emergency room and ask the treating team to contact us immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a gallbladder surgeon?
A gallbladder surgeon may evaluate patients experiencing gallstones, gallbladder attacks, gallbladder inflammation, digestive symptoms, or other gallbladder-related conditions. Dr. Porterfield and the Clarus Surgery team evaluate symptoms, imaging findings, and treatment options to determine whether surgery may be appropriate.
What conditions can gallbladder surgery treat?
Dr. Porterfield and the Clarus Surgery team evaluate and treat:
- Gallstones
- Gallbladder disease
- Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
- Gallbladder attacks
- Gallbladder dysfunction
- Gallbladder polyps or cancer
- Symptomatic biliary disease
Treatment recommendations vary based on diagnosis and surgical evaluation.
How long does recovery take after gallbladder surgery?
Recovery timelines vary depending on the procedure performed and the individual’s healing. Walking is encouraged shortly after surgery, and most patients gradually return to normal daily activities as recovery progresses. The Clarus Surgery team provides individualized recovery guidance before and after surgery.
Can I live normally without a gallbladder?
Yes. The gallbladder stores bile, but it is not required for digestion. Most patients return to their normal diet and daily activities following recovery, though some may experience temporary digestive changes as the body adjusts.
What should I expect after gallbladder surgery?
Temporary abdominal soreness, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and mild discomfort may occur during recovery. Some patients may also experience temporary digestive changes following surgery. The Clarus Surgery team provides detailed recovery instructions and follow-up support throughout the healing process.
