I had mine taken out a year ago last December (09). Now I have swelling in the general area, like a big welt. Everything I eat makes my stomach swell. I don't eat much. I have actually gained about 30 pounds and no matter what I do, it does not help. I thought I would feel better.... They said if it had not come out when it did, I would have died. Was green, and septic with calcified sludge. Battled with problems leading to this for close to ten years!