| 1.
What are the consequences of
losing my gallbladder?
One can lead a perfectly normal life without the gallbladder. Bile will still
continue to flow into the duodenum for digestion without any interruption.
Some patients may experience some looseness in their bowel but this looseness
reverts back to normal within 1-2 months. Very rarely a patient may
experience long term looseness in their bowel habit. 2.
How long does the operation
take?
The operation time can vary depending on how inflammed or adherent the
gallbladder is. On an average the operating time including the on-table
cholangiogram is one hour. The anaesthetic time is 15 minutes. 3.
What happens after the
operative procedure
The patient is taken to the recovery area in the operation suite and is
monitored by the nurse. One has an oxygen mask, intravenous fluids and
adequate pain killers are given After adequate recovery which is usually
between 30 to 45 minutes the patient is transferred back to the ward. But this
time can vary depending on the patient. 4.
What is my recovery thereafter
like?
In the ward you will be closely monitored by the nurse. Your pulse, blood
pressure oxygen saturation etc will be frequently checked. You will be quite
sleepy and will want t be left undisturbed. If you feel sick as a result of
the anaesthetic you will be given adequate injections to stop this feeling.
Within 2-3 hours you will be encouraged to move and use the toilet. You will
be give fluids orally and some light diet if you feel like it. Most patents
retire to bed after having a light supper and can eat a normal breakfast the
following morning. 5.
How long is the hospital stay?
Most patients are discharged on the following day. If however the patient has
had a drain placed or if they are uncomfortable they may stay in hospital for
an additional day. 6.
When can I return back to work?
Most patients can return to work within 10 -14 days. Those carrying out a
desk job can do it even earlier. 7.
When can I drive?
It is quite possible to do so in 8-10 days, but it is important to check with
the insurance company in case they have some stipulated period that they may
not cover the patient for. Every patient is different and you should listen
to what your body says. 8.
Wound care. The wounds are only
tiny cuts. The stitches are dissolving. There are a few paper strips called
steristrips applied over the sutures which should be left alone and will fall
off with a weeks time. One can go into the shower after 24 hours. It will be
fine to dab the wound dry with a clean towel and leave the steristrips
exposed. 9.
What pain killers do I need
after the operation?
Most patients are comfortable with over the counter paracetamol tablets that
are to be taken 6 hourly (1gm every 6 hrs) 10. What are the follow-up arrangements?
Usually in 2-3 weeks time. To check all is well and to review the pathology
report of the gallbladder. | 
