This is one of the most common procedures in digestive surgery and, in most cases, it is performed as day surgery: you will go home the same day. Recovery is quick, and you can live a completely normal life without a gallbladder.
Before surgery
FastingNo solid food for 6 hours before surgery. Clear fluids (water, tea without milk) are allowed up to 2 hours before.
Your usual medicationCheck which medicines to take on the day of surgery. If you take blood thinners or antiplatelets (Sintrom, Xarelto, aspirin…), let us know in advance.
SmokingStopping smoking 4 weeks beforehand reduces breathing and wound complications.
HygieneShower with soap and water the night before and that morning. No creams or make-up; remove jewellery and nail polish.
What to bringID and paperwork, a list of your medication and previous reports. Leave valuables at home.
The day of surgery
AnaesthesiaGeneral anaesthesia. The anaesthesia team will assess you beforehand.
TechniqueLaparoscopy: 3–4 small incisions. Occasionally conversion to open surgery is needed for safety.
DurationUsually between 45 and 90 minutes.
On waking upShoulder discomfort from the gas, mild nausea or a sore throat are normal and treated with medication.
After surgery
Getting movingStart walking the same day. Early movement reduces complications.
DietFluids within a few hours; light meals the next day. Avoid very fatty foods for the first few weeks.
Wound careYou may shower after 24–48 h. Pat the wounds dry gently, without rubbing.
ActivityDo not lift more than 5 kg for 2 weeks. You may drive once you are pain-free and off strong painkillers (about 1 week).
⚠ When to seek help immediately
Go to the emergency department or contact your team if you have:
Fever of 38 °C (100.4 °F) or higher
Pain that does not improve with your prescribed medication
Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
A wound that is red, warm, oozing or opening up
Difficulty breathing or chest pain
No gas or bowel movements together with abdominal bloating
