Recovery After Gallbladder Removal Surgery

Not everyone recovers the same way after gallbladder removal surgery. And unfortunately, many people who expect to feel better than they did before their operation don't get their wish - at least not right away.

There's a medical name for this phenomenon. It's called postcholecystectomy syndrome (cholecystectomy is the medical name for gallbladder removal). Medical researchers have found that approximately 40 percent of those who have had gallbladder removal surgery go through postcholecystectomy syndrome after their operation. This occurs because the bile duct (a tube which transports bile between the liver and the gallbladder) has not been removed. So bile continues to accumulate there.

In the Days After Your Gallbladder Removal Operation

Here are some things to expect in the days after your gallbladder removal surgery.

You'll notice some bruising, and the area where the surgery took place will become somewhat swollen. There's really nothing surprising about this, even if you've had laparoscopic surgery (which is much less invasive than a large open incision).

The air that was pumped into the surgical area during your operation may also cause some slight discomfort. The reason this is done is to give the surgeon room to manipulate his or her instruments. If this causes distress after your surgery, you doctor will probably be happy to recommend some pain-killing medications.

Moving around may become something of a challenge - especially sitting down or getting up. At least for a few days, you may find "bathroom time" somewhat uncomfortable. Your abdominal muscles will need some time to recover - several days at least.

On the subject of bathrooms: be prepared to deal with some bloating, gas and diarrhea temporarily. Some people get constipation. It doesn't happen to everyone, but it happens to enough people after gallbladder surgery that you should be aware of it. Of course, your doctor may be able to prescribe or recommend something to help with this.

Keep in mind, it's completely normal for your digestive system to be somewhat unpredictable. For this reason, it's a good idea to follow your doctor's dietary instructions. Low cholesterol foods and cholesterol free foods are generally considered to be a good idea for a while.

Most patients also do better if they forego large meals for a while and concentrate on eating smaller ones that are easier for the digestive system to handle. But be sure not to skip meals. Your body needs good nutrition to speed along your recovery.

As the Weeks Go By

You can start testing your digestive system with heavier foods. It's probably best to use a trial-and-error approach.

Exercise is usually a good idea, but be careful. It's important not to overdo it. Be mindful of your stitches. Talk to your doctor about this. Generally speaking, it's important to keep your stitches dry, so ask your doctor about baths and showers.

Typically, you can expect a follow up appointment with your doctor about one week after gallbladder surgery. He or she will probably want to see you again 4-5 weeks later.

For information on a related topic, see gallbladder attack.

By: GPMCK

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George McKenzie is a former TV news anchor, medical reporter and radio talk show host.