Referral: A GP or specialist may refer the patient to a surgeon for evaluation.

Consultation: The surgeon will discuss the patient's medical history, perform a physical examination, and may request diagnostic tests such as ultrasound or blood tests to assess gall bladder health and identify any underlying conditions.

Pre-Operative Assessment: Before surgery, patients may undergo a thorough assessment including:

• Medical History Review

• Blood Tests

• Ultrasound or MRI Scan

• Heart and Lung Function Tests (if necessary)

Pre-Operative Instructions: Patients are provided with specific guidelines for diet, medication, and lifestyle adjustments in the lead-up to surgery.

Admission: On the day of surgery, patients will be admitted to the hospital. They will receive pre-operative care including placement of intravenous (IV) lines, medications for sedation or anesthesia, and preparation for surgery.

Anesthesia: Typically, the procedure is performed under general anesthesia. However, some cases may use regional or local anesthesia depending on individual circumstances.

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: The most common method involves making small incisions (keyhole surgery) to remove the gall bladder, minimizing recovery time and reducing the risk of complications.

Open Cholecystectomy: In some complex cases, traditional open surgery may be necessary with a larger incision.

• Recovery: After surgery, patients are monitored in a recovery area before moving to a hospital ward.

• Pain Management: Pain relief is provided, and regular assessments are conducted.

• Diet and Activity: Patients are guided through a gradual return to normal diet and physical activities, avoiding heavy lifting initially.

• Discharge: Most patients are discharged within 1-2 days after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. In the case of open surgery, hospital stays may be longer.

• Follow-Up: A follow-up appointment is scheduled to review recovery and ensure no complications arise. Wounds are checked, and further medical advice may be provided.

Short-Term Risks

Common

Pain:

• Discomfort managed with pain relief.

• Possible shoulder tip and abdominal pain from gas used during surgery.

Uncommon

Wound Infection:

• Infections requiring antibiotics or further surgery.

• Higher risk in obese, smokers, and diabetics.

Hernia (Port-site Hernia):

• Occurs at keyhole surgery sites, requiring repair if bowel is trapped.

Retained Gallstone:

• Gallstones left in bile ducts, requiring further removal through surgery or endoscopy.

Long-Term Risks

Uncommon

Need for Further Surgery:

• Additional surgery may be needed for complications like bleeding, infection, or bile duct injury.

Rare

Blood Clots:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolus, treated with blood thinning medication.

Abscess around the Liver:

• Requires drainage and antibiotics, potentially further surgery.

Bile Leak:

• Bile leakage requiring endoscopy or additional surgery.

Recurrence of Symptoms:

• Gallstones may reform in bile ducts, causing symptoms to return, requiring further treatment.

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