The removal of the gallbladder is the most effective way to treat gallstones, and if you have been suffering from gallstones and are set to undergo the procedure of gallbladder removal, then you know that it is indeed one of the most common types of surgeries performed on thousands of people every day. The removal of the gallbladder can be necessary if deposits such as gallstones are already causing problems, especially if you have pain or your gallbladder is no longer functioning properly. In the past, the best option for gallbladder surgery was open surgery, but you can now benefit from laparoscopic surgery as well, which involves a series of smaller cuts on the abdomen rather than a large single cut. It is not as invasive compared to open surgery, but it is always best to prepare for it. Here’s how you can effectively and properly prepare yourself for gallstone surgery.
What you can expect from laparoscopic surgery
With laparoscopic surgery, the incisions will be smaller, and each one can be just one inch in length (often less). Laparoscopic surgery is not as invasive as open surgery, so you will experience less pain once the surgery is finished, and, best of all, the recovery period for laparoscopic gallstone surgery is much quicker than open surgery, as an expert gallbladder surgeon in London from The London Surgical Group attests. You can expect to be up and doing your regular tasks and chores in around one week, provided there are no complications.
How you should properly prepare yourself for laparoscopic gallstone surgery
First off, you will be given a complete physical examination, and you may need to undergo some tests so they can make sure that your body is ready and healthy for surgery.
Your surgeon and the specialist in gallstone surgery, such as gallstone surgery London specialists from The London Surgical Group, will discuss both the benefits and risks of the surgery with you, and you have to sign a specific form that confirms your understanding of the procedure and operation and that you are agreeing to it. You will also be given details about what you should avoid and do prior to having the surgery. Your precise instructions will be given by your surgeon, although some general things you should do are outlined below.
- Take a warm shower in the evening if you are having surgery in the morning. If your surgery is scheduled in the morning, then you should take a shower a few hours prior to it. Your specialist may also ask you to make use of an antibiotic body wash or soap. Avoid shaving the area of your belly.
- You should avoid eating or drinking anything once your surgeon advises you to do so. This could be the night before the surgery or a few hours prior.
- During the morning of your laparoscopic surgery, you may be allowed to take your personal medication as long as your doctor confirms it, but take them with only a small sip of water.
- You may, however, have to refrain from taking some of your medication prior to the surgery, especially blood thinners, or any medication that can have an effect on your immune system, and supplements. You can confirm this with your surgeon once they schedule the surgery.