A cholecystectomy is an operation to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small sac found just under the liver, on the right side of the abdomen. The gallbladder stores a liquid called bile. Bile is made in the liver and released into the intestine with meals. Bile is important because it helps digest the fat in foods.
The gallbladder is not an essential organ and your child will do well after cholecystectomy. Once the gallbladder is removed, bile will continue to be released from the liver directly into the intestine with meals.
- How are gallstones diagnosed?
- Why is cholecystectomy necessary?
- How will a cholecystectomy be performed?
- How long will my child remain in the hospital after the operation?
- Homecare after cholecystectomy
How are gallstones diagnosed?
The presence of gallstones can be documented by ultrasound study. This may be ordered by your child's primary care practitioner. The pediatric surgeon will need to review this study in the office, at the time of your child's appointment. You will need to bring all studies into your office appointment.
Why is cholecystectomy necessary?
The primary reason for cholecystectomy is gallstones and pain. Gallstones are small rocks that form inside the gallbladder. Gallstones can block the release of bile out of the gallbladder. This blockage can cause pain and jaundice (yellow skin color). If your child has these problems his or her primary care doctor or nurse may recommend a visit with a pediatric surgeon. Because gallstones cannot be removed without taking out the gallbladder both the stones and the gallbladder are removed at the time of the operation.
How will a cholecystectomy be performed?
A large incision may not be required. In most cases, a cholecystectomy can be performed laparoscopically using a small telescope and tiny instruments placed through band-aid sized incisions on the abdomen. The operation is usually completed in one to two hours. During hospitalization, your child will receive intravenous fluids, antibiotics and pain medication. As soon as your child feels well enough he/ she will be allowed to eat, drink and take pain medication by mouth, often as early as the evening of surgery.
In most cholecystectomy operations, there is very little blood loss. your child will receive blood only in the rare case of an extreme emergency. If you wish to provide a directed donation of blood, contact our office, 1-2 weeks in advance of the operation.
How long will my child remain in the hospital after the operation?
Your child must be able to eat, drink and be comfortable on pain medication taken by mouth before going home. Most children are ready to go home in one to two days after the operation.