Do You Need Gallbladder Removal for Acute Cholecystitis?

Acute cholecystitis

Is it necessary to remove the gallbladder in cases of acute cholecystitis? Will removing it have any effects on the body?

Miss Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/03/05

Dr. Yang Peizhen reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello! Acute cholecystitis poses a risk of gallbladder rupture or sepsis, which can lead to life-threatening situations.
Therefore, an assessment for the need for emergency surgery is typically conducted within the first 24 to 48 hours of the initial episode, especially for patients with risk factors such as diabetes, heart disease, or immunocompromised conditions.
If surgery is required at this time, traditional open cholecystectomy is performed rather than laparoscopic surgery.
Once this critical period has passed and the condition is stabilized under antibiotic treatment, which usually lasts for seven to ten days, laparoscopic surgery may be considered after the gallbladder has reduced in size.
This approach results in smaller and more aesthetically pleasing surgical wounds.
Regardless of the surgical method used, the entire gallbladder will be removed.
The gallbladder's function is to concentrate bile, primarily aiding in the digestion of fatty foods.
Therefore, after gallbladder removal, patients may initially experience symptoms of digestive discomfort such as loose stools or bloating.
However, after a period of adjustment and by avoiding fatty foods, these symptoms typically improve.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Yang Pei-Chen, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/03/05

More Info

Acute cholecystitis, which is the inflammation of the gallbladder, often necessitates surgical intervention, particularly cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. The decision to remove the gallbladder in cases of acute cholecystitis is primarily driven by the risk of complications, such as gallbladder rupture or sepsis, which can pose significant threats to life.
In the initial 24 to 48 hours following the onset of acute cholecystitis, a thorough assessment is crucial. If the patient exhibits risk factors such as diabetes, heart disease, or immunocompromised status, the urgency for surgical intervention increases. In such cases, traditional open cholecystectomy may be preferred over laparoscopic surgery due to the potential for complications. If the condition stabilizes with antibiotic treatment, surgery may be delayed for a few days to allow for inflammation to subside, after which laparoscopic cholecystectomy can be performed, which is less invasive and promotes quicker recovery.

Regarding the impact of gallbladder removal on the body, it is important to understand the gallbladder's role in digestion. The gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver, which is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine, which can lead to changes in digestion. Some patients may experience digestive issues such as diarrhea or bloating, especially after consuming fatty foods. However, these symptoms often improve over time as the body adjusts to the absence of the gallbladder.
In the long term, most individuals can lead a normal life without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, and while the absence of the gallbladder may affect the timing and concentration of bile release, it does not significantly impair digestion for most people. Dietary adjustments, such as reducing fat intake and eating smaller, more frequent meals, can help manage any post-operative digestive symptoms.

In summary, if a patient is diagnosed with acute cholecystitis, gallbladder removal is typically necessary to prevent serious complications. While there are some adjustments required post-surgery, most individuals adapt well and can maintain a healthy lifestyle without their gallbladder. It is essential for patients to have a detailed discussion with their healthcare provider regarding the timing of surgery and any potential impacts on their health and lifestyle post-operation.

Similar Q&A

Do Gallstones and Cholecystitis Always Require Gallbladder Removal?

Two weeks ago, I experienced pain on the right side of my abdomen and went to the emergency room. Blood tests showed abnormalities: CRP: 162, Total Bilirubin: 1.5, Segmented Neutrophils: 80, Lymphocytes: 13, WBC: 21. The emergency physician diagnosed me with gallstones and cholec...

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Cholecystectomy is still recommended; please discuss any related issues with your attending physician.

Gallbladder Removal: When Is Surgery Necessary for Gallstones?

Hello, doctor. I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, and recently I've experienced right upper abdominal pain twice within a week. The emergency department diagnosed me with gallstones leading to cholecystitis, but my blood tests are normal. I would like to know your opini...

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The primary treatment for symptomatic gallstones is cholecystectomy. If a physician assesses that a patient is not suitable for surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy combined with medication can be considered. Additionally, lifestyle and dietary modifications are necessa...

Understanding Acute Cholecystitis: Key Questions and Concerns

In late January, I experienced upper abdominal cramping and went to the emergency room where I received pain relief injections. The next day, I had pain in my right abdomen and a high fever, leading me to return to the hospital for blood tests, which revealed a white blood cell c...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: The primary treatment for gallstones is surgical removal of the gallbladder. The indication for surgery is not related to the size or number of stones, but rather whether there are symptoms present. After gallbladder removal, the main impact is on the digestion and absorpt...

Do You Need Hospitalization for Biliary Stent Removal?

Due to bile duct obstruction caused by gallstones, liver enzyme levels have risen. Jaundice has been addressed by placing a biliary stent to relieve the obstruction caused by the gallstones. The gallbladder is scheduled to be removed after the New Year, and once the wound has hea...

Dr. Hu Guozheng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
The number of days required for hospitalization observation varies depending on each individual's recovery condition and medical needs. It is advisable to consult your attending physician for more information. Thank you.