What Are the pros and cons of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, and the risks involved?

A number of benefits are noted with the use of laparoscopic technique for the removal of the gallbladder. The open surgery technique involves the placement of a larger incision when compared to the laparoscopic procedure. Thereby with the laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the extent of incision is smaller, the healing is faster and minimal or no scar may be observed after the wound heals. The amount of pain associated with this technique is also less. The operated individual may return home within a day following the surgery. Everyday activities can be resumed from an earlier period when compared to individuals who have undergone the open method.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy may not be feasible for all individuals. Obese individuals and individuals with a history of any other abdominal surgery that has resulted in the formation of dense scar tissues cannot be operated with laparoscopy. Increased bleeding and an inability to view the tissues clearly may affect the completion of the laparoscopy procedure and may create the need for an open technique. The presence of large stones or increased inflammation in the gallbladder may also be impossible to treat with laparoscopy.

What Are The Risks And Complications Of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

Generally the laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with a lesser number of complications when compared to the open surgical technique.

As with any other operation involving the use of anesthesia, adverse reactions to the drugs administered or other associated complications may be noted in some cases of laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Some of the other complications of anesthesia can include breathing difficulties, pneumonia, the formation of blood clots in the legs or lungs, and heart problems. Accidental damage to the adjacent structures such as the small intestine may also occur in rare cases. Other complications such as bleeding may be noted either immediately following the procedure or during the recovery period. Secondary infections at the surgical site may also be noted in certain individuals. These complications may need additional hospital care.

If the gallbladder removal surgery went as planned without any complications, patients can still expect some amount of swelling, bruising, and pain in the immediate post-surgery period. During the immediate gallbladder removal recovery period, patients are advised to "take it easy", to take pain killers as prescribed, and to follow their surgeon's dietary recommendations. 

Should patients notice concerning symptoms while they are recovering from their surgery, or have questions about the post-surgery instructions, they are always advised to consult their surgeons rather than struggling with these issues by themselves. This can help prevent complications. 

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients are lucky in that they recover from their surgery much faster than those who underwent the more traditional surgery. Studies do show, however, that many individuals continue suffering from diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, the risk of which they can reduce by following a healthy, balanced, and low-fat cholecystectomy diet. The BRAT diet ("banana, rice, applesauce and tea/toast"), in particular, will help individuals prevent the diarrhea many people who have had their gallbladder removed suffer from.