Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)
A cholecystectomy is a procedure in which the gallbladder is removed from the body. Laparascopy enables the removal of the gallbladder while making only five small incisions into the abdomen, vs one very large one.
A laparoscope, a narrow tube with a camera, is inserted through one incision. This allows your doctor to see your gallbladder on a screen. Your gallbladder is then removed through another small incision.
An Anesthesia is given to relax your muscles, prevent pain, and help you fall asleep. Your abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide, a harmless gas. The laparoscope is then inserted through a cut in your navel, so your doctor can look inside. A cholangiogram (a special X-ray) may be done while the surgery is going on to check for stones in your common bile duct.
Other instruments are then inserted through additional small incisions. Your gallbladder is removed through one of these incisions.
