What is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive technique used to remove the gallbladder. It's performed to treat gallstones, inflammation, or other gallbladder conditions.

The entire procedure typically takes around 45–60 minutes to complete. The patient is given general anaesthesia to ensure they are pain-free throughout the surgery.

Anatomy of The Gallbladder

It is a small, pear-shaped organ located below the liver. The major function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile (digestive fluid produced by the liver). The overview is given below.

1. Body: The bile is stored and concentrated here before being released into the digestive tract.
2. Fundus: It protrudes downward and to the right from the body of the gallbladder. Bile tends to accumulate in the fundus when the gallbladder is full.
3. Neck: A narrow, tubular portion that connects the gallbladder body to the cystic duct.

Conditions Treated with Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is primarily used to treat conditions related to the gallbladder, particularly those causing significant symptoms. It's particularly effective for:

1. Acute or Chronic Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder, often caused by gallstones, can lead to pain and discomfort.
2. Symptomatic Cholelithiasis: The presence of gallstones causes pain, nausea, and vomiting.
3. Biliary Dyskinesia: Dysfunction of the gallbladder resulting in abdominal pain, mostly related to abnormal contraction or emptying.
4. Acalculous Cholecystitis: Swelling and irritation in the gallbladder without gallstones. It is observed in patients who are critically ill or have underlying medical conditions.
5. Gallstone Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas is caused by a blockage in the pancreatic duct due to gallstones.
6. Gallbladder Masses or Polyps: Abnormal growths in the gallbladder may require removal due to the risk of cancer or other complications.

Benefits of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several benefits over traditional open surgery for gallbladder removal. The primary advantages are as follows:

1. Reduced post-operative pain and discomfort due to smaller incisions.
2. Faster recovery allows patients to return to normal activities sooner.
3. Lower chances of complications such as infections and hernias.
4. Improved cosmetic outcomes with smaller scars.
5. There is a lower chance of gallstones recurring due to the complete removal of the gallbladder.

Before and On the Day of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Patients undergo preoperative evaluations before and on the day of gallbladder stone removal surgery and are provided with specific guidelines. This is what the process generally includes:

The pre-surgery factors include consultations with the surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and expected outcomes. One may expect the following:

They will undergo final preoperative preparations upon arrival, including verifying personal and medical information. The other elements included are:

Gallbladder Removal Procedure

Laparoscopic surgery usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes to complete. However, the duration may vary based on the complexity of the process. The key steps involved are:

1. Patient Positioning: The individual should lie on their back with arms placed perpendicular to the body or tucked at the sides.
2. Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is administered to ensure they are unconscious and pain-free during the procedure.
3. Incision: Small incisions, usually less than an inch long, are made in the abdomen. Specialised surgical instruments and a tiny camera called a laparoscope are inserted through this cut.
4. Surgical Procedure: The surgeon performs the necessary steps, such as cutting, dissecting, suturing, or removing tissue or organs.
5. Closure: The surgical wounds are closed with sutures or surgical tape to complete the surgery.

Cost of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

The cost of laparoscopic cholecystectomy can vary widely depending on a number of factors. Some healthcare providers or facilities may offer financial assistance programs to help manage the expenses. The general overview is given below.

Note: The estimated numbers above can increase or decrease significantly. Contact HexaHealth for accurate pricing information.

Factors that may affect the cost of gallbladder stone operation include:

1. Geographical Location: The cost can differ significantly due to the region where the surgery is performed. Urban areas generally have higher expenses than rural areas.
2. Healthcare Provider or Facility: Different hospitals or surgical centres may have varying pricing structures. This can be based on factors such as reputation, facilities, and expertise.
3. Pre-operative Tests: Additional diagnostic examinations or imaging studies required before the treatment can add to the total bill.
4. Health Insurance: The extent of coverage, including deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses, can influence the amount paid by the patient.

Takeaway

For those facing gallbladder issues, laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers a minimally invasive solution with reduced pain and faster recovery. By removing the gallbladder, this procedure not only restores comfort but also prevents potential complications.