Definition - What does Cholecystectomy mean?

Cholecystectomy is the term for the surgical removal of the gall bladder. The gall bladder is an organ located on the right side of the body, just below the liver. The gall bladder produces bile which aids in digestion. If a person develops gall stones, they may block the flow of bile causing pain or infection. A cholecystectomy removes the pear shaped gallbladder to treat the pain and prevent the development of additional gall stones.

SureHire explains Cholecystectomy

A cholecystectomy may be performed using traditional or laparoscopic methods. Both types of surgery will use a small incision near the rib cage to allow the surgeon access the the gallbladder. When laparoscopic surgery is performed, a laparoscopic camera is inserted into the small incision via a tube to allow the surgeon to via the process. Most patients are able to return home within 1 to 2 days following this surgery. Other than some diet modifications, many patients will not notice the absence of the gallbladder in their day to day routine. Some diet modifications include eating more frequent smaller meals and lower fat foods.

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