Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
Like other surgeries Dr. Grunander performs in the Ogden area, gallbladder removal is done laparoscopically. Dr. Grunander inserts a laparoscope (a thin and lighted tube) into the patient’s stomach and visualizes the surgery from a monitor. Patient outcomes with laparoscopic gallbladder removal boast many benefits including a faster recovery due to smaller incisions, and an improved patient experience.
Why does the gallbladder need to be removed?
You may need gallbladder removal surgery if you have pain or other symptoms from gallstones. Gallbladder removal is also performed at the Ogden Clinic if your gallbladder is not functioning properly. Talk to your primary care physician if you experience the following symptoms which may indicate a gallbladder issue:
Indigestion
Nausea and vomiting
Pain after eating, usually in the upper-right or upper-middle portion of your stomach
Can I live without my gallbladder?
Laparoscopic gallbladder removal is safe and effective. After the gallbladder is removed, bile flows from the liver where it’s made through the common bile duct and into the small intestine. The body can no longer store bile between meals, but this has little or no effect on digestion.
How is gallbladder surgery performed?
Gallbladder removal is performed at the Ogden Clinic under general anesthesia so you will be asleep and pain-free. Dr. Grunander typically makes 3-4 small incisions in your abdomen then inserts the laparoscope through one incision. She inserts specialized instruments through the other cuts to perform gallbladder removal.
An x-ray called a cholangiogram may also be done during your surgery to find any stones outside of the gallbladder. To do this test, a contrast agent (dye) is injected into your common bile duct and an x-ray picture is taken. If other stones are found, Dr. Grunander will remove while you are still anesthetized.