Gallbladder Surgery
Removal of the gallbladder- otherwise known as cholecystectomy- is almost always done via a keyhole approach.
This is usually performed electively either as day surgery or with a one-night stay in hospital.
The Procedure
Patients are placed under a general anaesthetic.
The main port is placed at the umbilicus (belly button) and three 5mm ports are placed under the ribs on the right-hand side. The main part of the procedure is dissecting out where the gallbladder duct starts.
An xray test is then performed to confirm the anatomy, as well as make sure no stone has passed into the main bile duct from the liver.
Once this is performed, the gallbladder is dissected off the liver and removed via the umbilical port. All wounds are closed with dissolving stitches.
Recovery
Patients are placed back on a regular diet post procedure. Sometimes it can be done as a day case but most patients will have a one-night stay afterwards. The main restriction post op is no strenuous exercise for four weeks. Dr Gillespie will review you around this four week mark.
The Patient Journey
Book an appointment
Call or email Dr Gillespie’s rooms to book an appointment. You will need a referral from your GP or specialist if you would like a Medicare rebate.
Consult
You'll meet with Dr Gillespie to discuss your history and what might be right for you. This consult is ideally in person but zoom calls are also available.
Booking in for surgery
Dr Gillespie’s secretaries can discuss with you regarding public or private options, as well as the costs involved.
A date for surgery can then be picked.
Surgery
This will usually involve a one-night stay in hospital.
You will be admitted on the day of surgery and the hospital will provide fasting instructions the day prior.
Follow up
Dr Gillespie will see you around 4-6 weeks post procedure.
If you have any issues before then, please contact us via phone or email.
