Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
What is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy? Laparoscopic cholecystectomy removes the gallbladder through four small incisions. It is the standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones, cholecystitis (an infected gallbladder), gallstone pancreatitis and gallbladder polyps over 1 cm. Typical duration at Iswarya Hospital, OMR Chennai: 45–90 mins. Recovery: 1–2 weeks.
The gallbladder stores bile but is not essential; after removal, bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine and digestion continues normally. At Iswarya Hospital the operation is performed by experienced laparoscopic surgeons, with most patients going home within 24 hours and back to work in about a week.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Durai Ravi, Senior Consultant – General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Laser & Robotic Surgeon · Updated 9 October 2026
How is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy performed?
- 1
General anaesthesia is given.
- 2
Four small incisions are made: at the navel and along the right upper abdomen.
- 3
The abdomen is inflated with gas and the camera inserted.
- 4
The cystic duct and artery are identified clearly (the 'critical view of safety') and sealed with clips.
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The gallbladder is separated from the liver and removed in a bag through the navel incision.
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Incisions are closed with dissolving stitches or glue.
What are the benefits of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
- ✓Permanent cure for gallstone pain and infection
- ✓Four small scars instead of a large upper-abdominal incision
- ✓Home within 24 hours in most cases
- ✓Return to work in about a week
- ✓Removes the risk of future gallstone complications such as pancreatitis
How do you prepare for Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
- Ultrasound confirms gallstones; liver function tests and sometimes MRCP check the bile duct.
- Fast for 6–8 hours before surgery.
- Stop blood thinners as instructed.
- A low-fat diet in the days before helps if the gallbladder is inflamed.
- Arrange someone to accompany you home.
What are the risks and side effects of Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
- Injury to the bile duct, the most serious complication, in well under 1% of cases
- Bile leak from the liver bed, usually managed with a drain or endoscopy
- Bleeding or wound infection
- Retained stone in the bile duct needing ERCP
- Conversion to open surgery in severe inflammation or unclear anatomy
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
What is recovery like after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
- Start with fluids and a light meal the same evening.
- Walk on the day of surgery; shoulder-tip pain settles within 2 days.
- Keep dressings dry for 48 hours; showering is then fine.
- Avoid lifting over 5 kg for 2 weeks.
- A low-fat diet for the first month helps while digestion adjusts; no long-term restriction is needed.
Frequently asked questions about Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Can I live normally without a gallbladder?
Yes. Bile still reaches the intestine directly from the liver. A minority of people notice looser stools after fatty meals for a few months, which usually settles.
Do all gallstones need surgery?
No. Silent stones found by chance usually need no treatment. Surgery is advised once stones cause pain, infection, jaundice or pancreatitis, because complications tend to recur.
How long is the hospital stay?
Most patients go home the next morning. Day-case discharge is possible for straightforward cases operated on early in the day.
What if a stone is stuck in the bile duct?
It can be removed by ERCP, an endoscopic procedure through the mouth, either before or after the cholecystectomy. Our gastroenterology team performs this in-house.
Where can you get Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Chennai?
Iswarya Hospital's General & Laparoscopic Surgery department performs a wide range of procedures using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques for faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays — including hernia repair, gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and piles/fistula surgery.
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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.