Cholecystectomy

A cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure performed to remove the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver and stores bile produced by the liver. The bile helps with the digestion of fats. When the gallbladder is removed, bile will no longer be stored in the gallbladder, but will continue to be produced by the liver and will flow directly into the small intestine. Cholecystectomy is usually performed when gallstones are present, or when the gallbladder is inflamed, infected, or otherwise diseased. In some cases, the procedure is done to remove cancerous tissue. It is also used to diagnose and treat conditions such as pancreatitis or biliary dyskinesia. The procedure is typically performed laparoscopically, meaning that a small camera and surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. This technique results in a shorter recovery period and fewer post-operative complications. During the procedure, the surgeon will separate the cystic duct and artery from the organ, then cut and remove the organ. In some cases, the surgeon may also remove part of the common bile duct or the duodenum.