Gallbladder Removal
Gallstones are one of the most common reasons for surgical referral. When they cause pain, inflammation (cholecystitis), or infection, the definitive treatment is removal of the gallbladder — a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
What it involves
The procedure is done through four small incisions in the upper abdomen. The gallbladder is separated from the liver, the cystic duct clipped, and the whole gallbladder removed through the umbilical port. It usually takes under an hour.
When it's indicated
Symptomatic gallstones (right-sided upper abdominal pain after fatty meals, radiating to the back or right shoulder), acute cholecystitis, biliary pancreatitis, or gallstones seen on scan with typical symptoms.
The approach
Most patients are discharged the following day and back to normal activity within a week. You can live a completely normal life without a gallbladder — no long-term dietary restrictions.
Discuss gallbladder removal with Dr Marais
Send a short enquiry and the practice will be in touch during weekday office hours. Consultations take place at Johannesburg Surgical Hospital.
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