The surgery for gallbladder removal is popularly known as cholecystectomy. It has emerged as a common procedure. The gallbladder can describe as a tiny, pouch-type organ located at the upper right side of the tummy. The main functioning of the gallbladder is to store bile. The liver of the human body forms bile that assists in breaking down fatty foods. The gallbladder releases the bile into the small intestine to aid digestion. Below are 11 vital facts that you should be aware of about the gallbladder:
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Cholecystectomy surgery removes the gallbladder:
The human body does not necessarily need a gallbladder. And, whenever there are complications related to the gallbladder, gallbladder surgery is often recommended to eliminate it. Cholecystectomy is generally performed after giving general anesthesia to the patient.
Gallstones are the chief cause of gallbladder removal:
Gallstones are tiny yet hard masses produced from bile salts and cholesterol. When a gallbladder stone forms, it leads to severe pain and other symptoms related to stone. A congested duct has the potential of aggravating your pancreas. In addition, a gallbladder burst or gallbladder cancer may necessitate a cholecystectomy surgery.
Ways of removing the gallbladder:
There are two vital methods of removing a gallbladder. These methods know as laparoscopic or keyhole cholecystectomy. Under this method, various incisions make in your abdomen, and with the help of surgical instruments, the gallbladder eliminate. The second method knows as open cholecystectomy. Under this method, only one big incision make on your abdomen to remove the gallbladder.
The recovery period after the gallbladder removal:
It does not take long to recover from keyhole surgery. Several people discharge from the hospital the same day or the next day. You can come back to your normal life within just two weeks. After two weeks you can perform your routine activities. However, it may take a longer duration when you opt for open surgery to remove the gallbladder. You may have to stay in hospital for 4 to 5 days. To recover fully, you may need at least 6 to 8 weeks.
Life without a gallbladder:
Your normal life will not hamper without a gallbladder. You can easily lead a normal life without it. It is because the liver will still be able to produce adequate bile to digest the food. However, instead of getting stored in the gallbladder, the bile will consistently drip down to your digestive system. You will recommend following a special diet before the surgery takes place. You do not have to continue this diet after surgery.
Common issues after surgery:
You may go through some issues after gallbladder surgery. These may include diarrhea or bloating. However, it will improve after a few weeks, and you need not worry about it. These issues are generally common. If you find that some specific foods or drinks are causing such symptoms, you may avoid them.
Risks:
You may face some risks when you undergo gallbladder surgery, just like any other type of surgery. The common complications may be wound infection, bile getting leaked into your stomach or harm to one of the opening or ducts carrying bile out of the liver. Sometimes blood clotting also takes place. It is ideal to speak to your doctor whenever you feel any discomfort. Also, you may talk to your doctor to find out the risks and advantages of your operation.
Opt for low cholesterol and a low-fat diet:
Gallbladder stone is usually developed due to cholesterol. Therefore, it is imperative to follow a low cholesterol and low-fat diet to keep the gallbladder healthy. A diet that is suitable for your healthy heart will be suitable for your gallbladder as well. You must get rid of food that may increase your cholesterol, bringing down the possibility of gallstone formation.
Opt for a polyunsaturated diet:
It has become highly significant to take a balanced diet. It is worth mentioning that polyunsaturated fats must be an integral part of a balanced diet. It,s find in fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and vegetable oil.
Sudden weight loss:
Apart from a healthy diet, it is crucial to maintain a healthy weight. A healthy weight will lead to the effective functioning of the gallbladder. If you suffer from obesity, the risk of formation of gallbladder stones will reduce significantly. But, you must avoid going for a crash diet to get rid of weight issues. Sudden weight loss may also cause gallbladder stones.
The ideal test for gallstone:
Ultrasound has emerged as the best test for gallstone. Ultrasound is instant, safe, and provides adequate details about how the gallbladder looks like. It has great accuracy as well.
