Laparoscopic Gallbladder/Bile Duct Surgery Baltimore, Maryland
Over the past 20 years, laparoscopic surgery for gallstones, chronic cholecystitis, biliary dyskinesia, or acute inflammation of the gallbladder due to gallstone disease has become the standard of care. Almost every general surgeon is currently trained to perform this surgery – but not all Maryland gastroenterology specialists are adequately trained to deal with this surgery in morbidly obese patients or patients who have already undergone bariatric surgery.
In patients undergoing bariatric surgery, rapid weight loss is associated with an increased frequency of gallstones and gallbladder dysfunction (or dyskinesia). This can happen after any bariatric procedure, and general surgeons often are not prepared to deal with gallbladder problems in bariatric patients.
After a gastric bypass, if gallstones escape into the main duct connecting the liver and intestine (common bile duct), a vast majority of surgeons will resort to an open procedure with all attendant risks. Special skills, techniques, and bariatric surgical experience allow us to extend the benefits of laparoscopic gallbladder surgery to most patients.
Residents dealing with obesity in Maryland and surrounding areas have sought out Dr. Averbach and Dr. Hamdallah for their gastroenterology experience, as have those who are suffering gastroenterological complications as a result of their bariatric surgery and subsequent weight loss.
If you have been diagnosed as suffering from gallstones, request a consultation online or call us at 410-368-8725 to schedule an appointment.
Uncommon Expertise
Unlike many general surgeons, Dr. Averbach and Dr. Hamdallah are also prepared to deal with extremely challenging cases when acute inflammation progresses to the point that laparoscopic surgery is impossible and dangerous, and conversion to open surgery is warranted.
Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery in Baltimore is one of the most frequent surgeries performed by Dr. Averbach, Dr. Hamdallah, and his team, mainly for difficult-to-treat patients. Despite the challenges involved, there have been no mortality or severe complications in several hundred cases treated by Dr. Averbach and Dr. Hamdallah.
Advantages of Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery
Results are different for each procedure and each patient. Some common advantages of minimally invasive colorectal surgery are:
- Shorter hospital stay
- Shorter recovery time
- Less pain from the incisions
- Faster return to normal diet
- Faster return to work or normal activity
- Better cosmetic healing
If you are experiencing symptoms associated with gallbladder or bile duct problems, please let us know. Get in touch with us for treatment. Our experienced medical team will be able to provide you with the care and attention you need.
FAQs About Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery
How much does it cost to have your gallbladder removed?
Is it painful to have a gallbladder removed?
Gallbladder removal surgery is painless, as patients are put under general anesthesia. Those who undergo laparoscopic gallbladder removal will have much less pain from the incisions. Some abdominal pain may be present during recovery, and pain medication is provided to assist in dealing with this.
How long does it take to recover from gallbladder surgery?
Recovery from gallbladder removal surgery takes several weeks. However, most patients are able to return to work between 1-2 weeks after surgery. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks.
Are there any side effects of gallbladder surgery?
Gallbladder removal surgery changes the way your body digests fats. For this reason, many patients experience some degree of abdominal pain, flatulence, gas pain, and diarrhea during recovery. This is normal and is nothing to worry about. Patients are advised to avoid fatty foods after gallbladder removal surgery to reduce side effects.