Surgery to remove the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy, is a common procedure. When scheduled, it usually lasts around 45 minutes and the rest time required is approximately 2 days, with a return to normal activities in one to two weeks. There are two types of cholecystectomy:
Both procedures require general anesthesia and a hospital stay of up to 2 days. In cases of significant abdominal inflammation, recovery may take longer.
Post-operative guidelines
1. Recovery from the operation is usually quick and most patients return to their normal activities within a few days. The guidelines below must be followed so that you have little discomfort and your recovery is uneventful.
2. There is no special diet. You can eat or eat any food you want, including solid foods. Some patients may experience nausea and vomiting on the first day after the operation due to the medications and anesthetics received. If you have nausea and vomiting, you should only drink liquids in small amounts at a time.
3. These symptoms usually disappear within 1 or 2 days, after the body eliminates the medications prescribed in the hospital. If nausea and vomiting persist after this period, you should contact our clinic.
4. Shoulder pain may occur after surgery. This pain is caused by irritation of a nerve that is between the abdomen and the chest. It is not due to a twist or bad shoulder. The pain usually goes away within a few hours or days. If it is severe, take the prescribed painkiller.
5. The cuts or holes will be closed with stitches and covered with a bandage (micropore). It is common for hematomas (“bluish” or “purple”) or small bleeds to occur. This is normal. Don't worry. Do not remove the micropore unless instructed to do so. You can take a full shower and wet the micropore. Dry the abdomen normally with a towel, without the need for special care with the cuts. However, if the cut appears infected (red, oozing pus, or has a strong odor), contact us.
6. In the first few days, take deep breaths 3 times every hour to better expand your lungs and avoid complications such as fever and pneumonia.
7. Avoid lying down or sitting for a long time. Try to walk several times a day. Can walk and climb stairs lightly. . Once you are moving better and with little pain, you will be able to drive. You can lift up to 10 kg in the first month after surgery and up to 20 kg between the first and third months. After this period there are no more limitations.
8. Throughout the post-operative period we have a dedicated line so you can contact us at any time.
After your laparoscopic cholecystectomy