Gallbladder Surgery Melbourne

A/Prof. James Lee offers a few options for gallbladder surgery. 

A/Prof. James Lee is highly experienced in all types of General surgeries including gallbladder procedures. A/Prof. Lee’s gallbladder procedures include: 

• Management of gallstones
• Keyhole & open gallbladder surgery
• Acute cholecystitis

What is the gallbladder?

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ on the right side of the abdomen. Its function is to store bile which helps break down food in your small intestine.

When is surgery required?

You might require gallbladder surgery if the following occurs: 

• Your gallbladder is not functioning properly 
• You have pain in your abdomen 
• Indigestion
• Nausea and vomiting 
• Fever

The main cause of gallbladder issues is gallstones. Gallstones are hardened deposits of the digestive fluid that can form if your gallbladder fails to empty properly, or if your fluid levels become too concentrated. Gallstones can range in size varying from pea size to golf ball size. 

What types of gallbladder treatments are there?

A/Prof. James Lee offers the following gallbladder treatments:

Management of gallstones

A/Prof. James Lee will assess your situation to determine whether you might require gallbladder surgery. 

Keyhole gallbladder surgery

This procedure is done under general anaesthetic and is minimally invasive. This procedure involves 4 small incisions in your abdomen for insertion of a telescope and surgical instruments.

The gallbladder is removed along with all the gallstones in it. The surgery typically takes 1 – 2 hours.

Typically, patients can return home within 24 hours of the procedure. You will get back to feeling normal quickly following the procedure, but avoid strenuous activity for up to two weeks. 

Open gallbladder surgery

This procedure is performed under general anaesthetic and lasts about 1-2 hours. This procedure involves one larger incision in the abdomen where the surgeon can easily access and remove the gallbladder. Then, the incision is closed with stitches. 

You may be required to have a short stay in the hospital following the procedure to fully recover as open procedures are more invasive than laparoscopic procedures. 

Acute cholecystitis

Acute cholecystitis is the inflammation of the gallbladder that is caused by a gallstone obstructing a duct. Treatment of cholecystitis depends on the severity of the condition and will be assessed by A/Prof. James Lee on what approach to take. If you are suffering from cholecystitis, book in for a consultation with A/Prof. Lee. 

Gallbladder surgery with A/Prof. James Lee

If you require any type of gallbladder surgery, A/Prof. James Lee ensures to provide his patients with the most education and communication possible throughout the course of the journey. If you have any questions or concerns regarding surgery, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.