Gallbladder Surgery
What Is Gallbladder Surgery?
The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located in the upper right part of the liver. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver and release it periodically into the duodenum.
Methods Used in Gallbladder Surgery
Gallbladder surgery is most commonly performed using the laparoscopic method. This minimally invasive technique involves small incisions and the use of a camera, offering a faster recovery process. Open surgery is rarely used and requires larger incisions.
When Is Gallbladder Removal Necessary?
Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) becomes necessary when gallstones block the flow of bile and cause pain. Cholecystectomy is a common procedure with a low risk of complications. In addition to gallstones, stones in the bile duct, inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), and inflammation of the pancreas may also require a cholecystectomy.
Gallstones and Symptoms
The most common complaint caused by gallstones is abdominal pain. This pain is usually felt in the upper right part of the abdomen and may sometimes radiate to the back. The pain can be intermittent, but in cases of inflammation, it may become constant and severe. When gallstones lead to complications and persistent pain, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Treatment Methods
Robotic Surgery (Robot-Assisted Minimally Invasive Surgery)
Robotic gallbladder surgery, known as robotic cholecystectomy, is performed through several small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. These small incisions help accelerate the patient’s return to daily activities after surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon operates from a console located a few steps away, while an assisting surgeon remains at the patient’s side. The operation is guided by a 3D image of the patient’s internal anatomy, provided by the robot’s specialized camera and instruments. The surgeon’s movements at the console are instantly translated into precise actions inside the patient’s body.
Open Surgery
Open cholecystectomy is performed by making a large incision in the patient’s abdomen. This larger incision significantly impacts the recovery time. One advantage of open surgery is that it allows the surgeon to directly feel the tissues during the operation. The procedure is carried out using specialized surgical instruments through the large incision.
Laparoscopic Surgery (Minimally Invasive Surgery)
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a surgical method that uses a small video camera and specialized instruments. The surgeon makes a few small incisions in the patient’s abdomen. A camera called a laparoscope is inserted through one of these incisions to provide a two-dimensional view of the inside of the abdomen. The other incisions are used for laparoscopic instruments. These instruments are thin, long, and straight, and are inserted through the small incisions to reach the surgical area. The surgeon performs the procedure by following the live video feed displayed on the monitor.
TREATMENTS
