Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery is a keyhole surgery done to remove a disease or infected gallbladder. It is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures and is also known as Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. In this surgical procedure, small incisions are made and a laparoscope is inserted through one of the incisions in order to perform the surgery. This is a modern day surgery with a number of advantages such as less pain, few scars, and faster recovery.

The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located near the liver. It collects, concentrates and releases bile into the small bowel to help break down fats. A cholecystectomy is usually performed if you have gallstones or any inflammation of the gallbladder.

Before undergoing the surgery the doctor will give some instructions on what to do and what not to do.

You will be asked to undergo some tests beforehand to make sure that you are ready for the surgery. These tests can include blood tests, imaging tests of the gallbladder, a complete physical examination and a complete review of your medical history. He may ask you to stop taking any medicines before the surgery if you are taking any.

• After a thorough review and an approval of your health conditions from the doctor, you may be asked to provide a written consent for the potential risks and benefits of the surgery.
• You will be asked to hospitalize once you are prepared for the surgery.
• You will be asked to take the shower night before or the morning of the operation preferably using an antibiotic soap.
• You will not be allowed to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the operation. You can only take medicines as prescribed by your surgeon with water according to his instructions.
• Do not shave your abdomen before the surgery.
• Certain drugs including blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medicines and vitamin E needs to be stopped temporarily for some days to a week before the surgery.
• Quit smoking at least two weeks before the surgery and do not resume for at least a year after the surgery.

Do not forget to include the following in addition: arranging for a ride home, having someone to stay with you immediately after the surgery, drinking a prescription solution that flushes out your bowels, and planning for a hospital stay in case of any complications. Keep in touch with your surgeon for post-surgery follow-ups as it is equally important.