Gallbladder surgery complications are not very common. However, several problems can occur after the surgery. Read the following article to learn more about the possible complications after the gallbladder removal.
Gallbladder is located near your liver. This small organ takes part in digestion; its main function is to concentrate the bile that is produced by your liver, and release it into your intestines whenever you eat some food. Gallbladder disorders are more likely to occur in women, but there are other risk factors, besides gender. Obesity, certain diseases, age, some medications (antidepressants, antacids), heredity, and improper diet are some of the factors that can trigger gallbladder problems.
Not all gallbladder problems require surgery. Other methods can be used in treating gallbladder problems, too. This will depend on the type of gallbladder disorder, severity of the problem, and the patient’s general health.
Gallbladder Surgery
In severe cases, gallbladder surgery can be the only treatment. There are two types of gallbladder surgery.
Laparoscopic surgery is more popular and it is considered much safer, compared to the open surgery. Laparoscopic surgery reduces the risk of complications, because it is less invasive. The incisions are barely visible; they leave almost no scars, which can significantly reduce the risk of secondary infections. The recovery period will not be very long.
Complications after Gallbladder Removal
Complications that can occur after gallbladder surgery include:
● Injuries to the bile duct – This is very rare, but it can happen during the procedure. It happens because of low visibility.
● Bile leak – We know that gallbladder is like a sack in which the bile is stored. If there is no gallbladder, the bile may leak into the pancreas or the small intestine. This can lead to pain and discomfort, and it can cause pancreatitis.
● When it comes to incisions, there can be some complications. Infections can develop, especially if you do not follow the instructions from your doctor. You have to wait until the healing process is complete, and then you will be able to go back to your usual activities.
● In some patients, cholesterol levels in blood can increase. Digestion of fatty foods will be difficult, which can lead to increased cholesterol levels. That is why gallbladder patients should not eat fatty foods. If you continue to consume fatty foods, your cholesterol levels will elevate, and then you may start having other problems.