Business Description
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ positioned under the liver in the upper right portion of the abdomen. Its main purpose is to collect bile, a digestive agent that is produced by the liver.Stones may form in the gallbladder and block the outlet of the gallbladder, causing pain. Sometimes the stones may move into the bile duct, causing jaundice or an inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). Patients who have severe symptoms from gallstones (usually diagnosed on an ultrasound) usually have their gallbladder removed. Symptoms may include sharp abdominal pain, vomiting, and indigestion. Gallbladder pain may start after a meal and it may be a severe, steady pain. If left untreated, symptoms may worsen.
Sometimes gallbladder problems can be managed with medication or adjustments in diet. However, when severe obstruction of the gallbladder occurs, removal is the only option. If surgery is recommended, we will determine if laparoscopic surgery is appropriate for you.
The following includes typical events that may occur prior to laparoscopic surgery; however, since each patient and surgeon is unique, what will actually occur may be different:
1. Preoperative preparation includes blood work, medical evaluation, and an EKG depending on your age and medical condition.
2. After your surgeon reviews with you the potential risks and benefits of the operation, you will need to provide written consent for surgery.
3. It is recommended that you shower the night before or morning of the operation. Your surgeon may also want you to use an antibiotic soap.
4. After midnight the night before the operation, you should not eat or drink anything. You may take medications that your surgeon has told you are permissible to take with a sip of water the morning of surgery.
5. Drugs such as blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications (arthritis medications) and Vitamin E may need to be stopped temporarily for several days to a week prior to surgery.
6. Diet medication or St. John’s Wort should not be used for the two weeks prior to surgery.
7. Quit smoking and arrange for any help you may need at home.
8. Do not shave your abdomen before surgery.
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