What are the side effects of gallbladder removal surgery? How can you manage them? What are the potential complications to be aware of? Get all the details in this comprehensive article.

Understanding Gallbladder Removal Surgery

The gallbladder is a small pouch-like organ located on the right side of the abdomen. Its primary function is to store and release bile, a substance produced by the liver to aid in the digestion of fats. Gallbladder disease is often caused by an excess of cholesterol or bilirubin, a liver pigment, in the bile, leading to the formation of gallstones or inflammation.

If the symptoms of gallbladder disease become too severe or interfere with a person’s health, doctors may recommend either open or laparoscopic gallbladder removal, also known as cholecystectomy. This surgical procedure is relatively simple, and most people can live a healthy life without their gallbladder.

Potential Side Effects

While gallbladder removal is a common and generally safe procedure, some people may experience side effects after the surgery. These side effects can include:

Difficulty Digesting Fat

Without the gallbladder, the body’s method of digesting fat may need some time to adjust. The medications used during the surgery can also cause indigestion, although this is usually temporary. In some cases, longer-term side effects may occur, often due to bile leakage into other organs or the presence of gallstones left behind in the bile ducts.

Diarrhea and Flatulence

Indigestion can lead to diarrhea or excessive gas. This can be exacerbated by a diet high in fat or low in fiber. Bile leakage can also result in an insufficient amount of bile in the intestines, leading to loose stools.

Constipation

While the removal of a diseased gallbladder often reduces constipation, the surgery and anesthesia used during the procedure can occasionally lead to short-term constipation, which can be worsened by dehydration.

Intestinal Injury

Though rare, it is possible for a surgeon to accidentally damage the intestines during the gallbladder removal procedure. This can result in cramping and other complications.

Potential Complications

In addition to the side effects mentioned, there are also potential complications that can arise from gallbladder removal surgery, including:

Jaundice or Fever

If a gallstone remains in the bile duct after the surgery, it can cause severe pain, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), or even an infection. A complete blockage of the bile duct can lead to a serious infection.

Incision Bleeding, Movement of Surgical Materials, and Infection

As with any surgery, there is a risk of incision bleeding, the movement of surgical materials to other parts of the body, and infection, with or without a fever.

Recovery and Management

To increase the chances of a successful recovery, doctors may recommend that patients remain in the hospital for 3-5 days after open surgery or go home the same day after laparoscopic surgery. Patients are typically advised to avoid physically strenuous activities for at least two weeks following the procedure.

During the recovery process, patients may be prescribed a liquid or bland diet for the first few days, followed by a gradual reintroduction of their usual foods. Staying hydrated and consuming fiber-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can help with digestion, while limiting high-salt, sweet, spicy, or fatty foods is recommended.

Seeking Medical Attention

If a patient experiences any of the following after gallbladder removal, they should contact their doctor immediately:

• Pain that does not improve over time, or new/worsening abdominal pain
• Intense nausea or vomiting
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes
• Lack of bowel movement or passing of gas for more than three days after the surgery

By understanding the potential side effects and complications of gallbladder removal surgery, patients can be better prepared to manage their recovery and seek prompt medical attention if any issues arise.

Conclusion

Gallbladder removal surgery is a common and generally safe procedure, but some patients may experience side effects or complications during the recovery process. Being aware of these potential issues and following the instructions of the medical team can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery.

Gallbladder Removal Surgery: Side Effects and Complications

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Some people may experience side effects from gallbladder removal, ranging from diarrhea and difficulty digesting fat to intestinal injury and infection.

The gallbladder is a small pouch-like organ on the right side of your abdomen. Its job is to store and release bile, a substance made by the liver to help you digest fats.

The most frequent forms of gallbladder disease arise from having too much cholesterol or bilirubin, a liver pigment, in your bile. This leads to:

• gallstones
• acute or chronic inflammation caused by gallstones
• bile duct stones

If symptoms become too uncomfortable or interfere with your health, doctors may suggest either open or laparoscopic gallbladder removal.

Fortunately, you can live a healthy life without your gallbladder, and the surgery to remove it is relatively simple. Without a gallbladder, bile can move directly from your liver to your intestines to aid in digestion. However, there’s still some chance that you might experience side effects after gallbladder removal.

Any surgery has potential complications, including incision bleeding, movement of surgical materials to other parts of the body, pain, or infection — with or without a fever. It’s possible you’ll experience digestive side effects when your gallbladder is removed.

Difficulty digesting fat

It may take your body time to adjust to its new method of digesting fat. The medications you were given during surgery may also cause indigestion. This doesn’t typically last long, but some patients do develop longer-term side effects, usually caused by bile leaking into other organs or gallstones that were left behind in the bile ducts.

Diarrhea and flatulence

Indigestion can cause diarrhea or flatulence, often made worse by excess fat or too little fiber in the diet. Bile leakage can mean having an insufficient amount of bile in the intestines to digest fat, which loosens stool.

Constipation

Although removal of a diseased gallbladder usually reduces constipation, surgery and anesthesia used during the procedure can lead to short-term constipation. Dehydration can make the constipation worse.

Intestinal injury

During gallbladder removal, it’s rare but possible for a surgeon to damage the intestines. This may result in cramping. Some pain is normal following any surgery, but if it continues beyond a few days or gets worse instead of better, speak to your doctor.

Jaundice or fever

A stone that remains in a bile duct after gallbladder removal surgery can cause severe pain, or jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin. A complete blockage can cause an infection.

If there are no complications, your recovery from gallbladder surgery should go smoothly.

To increase the chances of success, your doctor may suggest that you remain in the hospital for three to five days if you have open surgery. If you have keyhole, or laparoscopic, surgery, you may be able to go home the same day.

Either way, try not to physically strain yourself for at least two weeks.

Your medical team will teach you how to clean your wounds and watch for infection. Don’t shower until you get the green light from your doctor.

Your doctor may prescribe a liquid or bland diet for the first few days. After that, they’ll probably suggest adding back your usual foods, little by little. Drink water throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to eat simple fruits and vegetables while limiting highly salty, sweet, spicy, or fatty foods.

Fiber is essential for good digestion after surgery, but limit your initial intake of the following:

• nuts
• seeds
• whole grains
• brussels sprouts
• broccoli
• cauliflower
• cabbage
• high-fiber cereals

Although it’s normal to have some side effects after surgery, if you notice any of the following, contact a doctor right away:

• pain that doesn’t get better with time, new abdominal pain, or pain that gets worse
• intense nausea or vomiting
• yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes
• no bowel movement or passing of gas for more than three days after surgery
• diarrhea that continues for three or more days following surgery

Gallbladder removal is a last resort. If your doctor doesn’t feel that surgery is urgent, you may want to try lifestyle changes first.

Diet and exercise

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pain and complications from gallbladder disease by reducing the cholesterol and inflammation that can cause gallstones.

A diet lower in fat and higher in fiber, and full of fruits and vegetables, can also improve gallbladder health. Swap animal fats, fried foods, and oily packaged snacks for olive oil and other healthy fats. Limit or avoid sugar.

Regular exercise can help your body reduce cholesterol and prevent gallstones from forming. Magnesium deficiency can increase your risk of developing gallstones. Eat magnesium-rich foods, including dark chocolate, spinach, nuts, seeds, and beans to improve gallbladder health.

Gallbladder cleanse

A gallbladder cleanse usually refers to avoiding food for up to 12 hours, then drinking a liquid recipe like the following: 4 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice every 15 minutes for two hours.

Tonics

Apple cider vinegar and turmeric both have been shown to reduce inflammation. If you mix them with warm water you can enjoy them as a tea-like drink and may experience relief of your gallbladder symptoms. Some people find the menthol in peppermint tea to be soothing as well.

Some studies have shown the benefits of turmeric on gallstone formation. However, if you have gallstones, be careful how much turmeric you ingest. One 2002 study with 12 healthy participants showed 50 percent contraction of the gallbladder due to curcumin. This increased contraction could cause pain.

Supplements

In addition to magnesium, choline plays a role in gallbladder health.

According to the Harvard Health Letter, bile salts may be worth a try as well, especially if your liver has been producing thick bile. Bile acids also come in prescription strength.

Speak to a doctor or nutritionist about taking one or more of these supplements if you have gallstones or a blocked bile duct.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may be of potential benefit to those with gallbladder disease. It most likely works by increasing the flow of bile while also reducing spasms and pain.

It’s important to note that although diet and exercise are proven methods of reducing gallbladder complications, other methods like cleanses, tonics, and supplements haven’t been studied extensively, and side effects may occur. Be sure to discuss these options with your healthcare provider before proceeding.

Gallbladder removal is a fairly common procedure, but it’s always possible that you may experience some side effects. Knowing how to identify and reduce symptoms, side effects, and complications before and after surgery may make for an easier experience.

Gallbladder Removal Surgery: Side Effects and Complications

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Some people may experience side effects from gallbladder removal, ranging from diarrhea and difficulty digesting fat to intestinal injury and infection.

The gallbladder is a small pouch-like organ on the right side of your abdomen. Its job is to store and release bile, a substance made by the liver to help you digest fats.

The most frequent forms of gallbladder disease arise from having too much cholesterol or bilirubin, a liver pigment, in your bile. This leads to:

• gallstones
• acute or chronic inflammation caused by gallstones
• bile duct stones

If symptoms become too uncomfortable or interfere with your health, doctors may suggest either open or laparoscopic gallbladder removal.

Fortunately, you can live a healthy life without your gallbladder, and the surgery to remove it is relatively simple. Without a gallbladder, bile can move directly from your liver to your intestines to aid in digestion. However, there’s still some chance that you might experience side effects after gallbladder removal.

Any surgery has potential complications, including incision bleeding, movement of surgical materials to other parts of the body, pain, or infection — with or without a fever. It’s possible you’ll experience digestive side effects when your gallbladder is removed.

Difficulty digesting fat

It may take your body time to adjust to its new method of digesting fat. The medications you were given during surgery may also cause indigestion. This doesn’t typically last long, but some patients do develop longer-term side effects, usually caused by bile leaking into other organs or gallstones that were left behind in the bile ducts.

Diarrhea and flatulence

Indigestion can cause diarrhea or flatulence, often made worse by excess fat or too little fiber in the diet. Bile leakage can mean having an insufficient amount of bile in the intestines to digest fat, which loosens stool.

Constipation

Although removal of a diseased gallbladder usually reduces constipation, surgery and anesthesia used during the procedure can lead to short-term constipation. Dehydration can make the constipation worse.

Intestinal injury

During gallbladder removal, it’s rare but possible for a surgeon to damage the intestines. This may result in cramping. Some pain is normal following any surgery, but if it continues beyond a few days or gets worse instead of better, speak to your doctor.

Jaundice or fever

A stone that remains in a bile duct after gallbladder removal surgery can cause severe pain, or jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin. A complete blockage can cause an infection.

If there are no complications, your recovery from gallbladder surgery should go smoothly.

To increase the chances of success, your doctor may suggest that you remain in the hospital for three to five days if you have open surgery. If you have keyhole, or laparoscopic, surgery, you may be able to go home the same day.

Either way, try not to physically strain yourself for at least two weeks.

Your medical team will teach you how to clean your wounds and watch for infection. Don’t shower until you get the green light from your doctor.

Your doctor may prescribe a liquid or bland diet for the first few days. After that, they’ll probably suggest adding back your usual foods, little by little. Drink water throughout the day. It’s also a good idea to eat simple fruits and vegetables while limiting highly salty, sweet, spicy, or fatty foods.

Fiber is essential for good digestion after surgery, but limit your initial intake of the following:

• nuts
• seeds
• whole grains
• brussels sprouts
• broccoli
• cauliflower
• cabbage
• high-fiber cereals

Although it’s normal to have some side effects after surgery, if you notice any of the following, contact a doctor right away:

• pain that doesn’t get better with time, new abdominal pain, or pain that gets worse
• intense nausea or vomiting
• yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes
• no bowel movement or passing of gas for more than three days after surgery
• diarrhea that continues for three or more days following surgery

Gallbladder removal is a last resort. If your doctor doesn’t feel that surgery is urgent, you may want to try lifestyle changes first.

Diet and exercise

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce pain and complications from gallbladder disease by reducing the cholesterol and inflammation that can cause gallstones.

A diet lower in fat and higher in fiber, and full of fruits and vegetables, can also improve gallbladder health. Swap animal fats, fried foods, and oily packaged snacks for olive oil and other healthy fats. Limit or avoid sugar.

Regular exercise can help your body reduce cholesterol and prevent gallstones from forming. Magnesium deficiency can increase your risk of developing gallstones. Eat magnesium-rich foods, including dark chocolate, spinach, nuts, seeds, and beans to improve gallbladder health.

Gallbladder cleanse

A gallbladder cleanse usually refers to avoiding food for up to 12 hours, then drinking a liquid recipe like the following: 4 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice every 15 minutes for two hours.

Tonics

Apple cider vinegar and turmeric both have been shown to reduce inflammation. If you mix them with warm water you can enjoy them as a tea-like drink and may experience relief of your gallbladder symptoms. Some people find the menthol in peppermint tea to be soothing as well.

Some studies have shown the benefits of turmeric on gallstone formation. However, if you have gallstones, be careful how much turmeric you ingest. One 2002 study with 12 healthy participants showed 50 percent contraction of the gallbladder due to curcumin. This increased contraction could cause pain.

Supplements

In addition to magnesium, choline plays a role in gallbladder health.

According to the Harvard Health Letter, bile salts may be worth a try as well, especially if your liver has been producing thick bile. Bile acids also come in prescription strength.

Speak to a doctor or nutritionist about taking one or more of these supplements if you have gallstones or a blocked bile duct.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may be of potential benefit to those with gallbladder disease. It most likely works by increasing the flow of bile while also reducing spasms and pain.

It’s important to note that although diet and exercise are proven methods of reducing gallbladder complications, other methods like cleanses, tonics, and supplements haven’t been studied extensively, and side effects may occur. Be sure to discuss these options with your healthcare provider before proceeding.

Gallbladder removal is a fairly common procedure, but it’s always possible that you may experience some side effects. Knowing how to identify and reduce symptoms, side effects, and complications before and after surgery may make for an easier experience.

Complications after gallbladder removal: symptoms, causes and treatment

Contents

• 1 Complications after gallbladder removal: how to avoid them and what to do if they occur?
  • 1.1 Complications after removal of the gallbladder
    • 1. 1.1 Biliary peritonitis
    • 1.1.2 Digestive problems
    • 1.1.3 Scars and adhesions
    • 1.1.4 Gallstone disease 90 010
  • 1.2 Complications after gallbladder surgery : causes and possible complications
    • 1.2.1 Causes of complications
  • 1.3 Symptoms indicating possible complications after removal of the gallbladder
    • 1.3.1 Operative period
    • 1.3.2 Late complications

    900 10

  • 1.4 Complications after gallbladder removal: symptoms, causes and treatment
    • 1.4.1 Jaundice as a complication
  • 1.5 Pancreas and its functions
  • 1.6 Complications after gallbladder removal: bile duct stones
    • 1.6.1 What is it?
    • 1.6.2 What symptoms appear?
    • 1.6.3 How to treat?
    • 1.6.4 How to prevent?
  • 1.7 Increased risk of infection and inflammation
  • 1.8 Complications after gallbladder removal
    • 1.8.1 Digestive disorders after gallbladder removal
  • 1. 9 Canner Vative treatment of complications after gallbladder removal
    • 1.9.1 Use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs
    • 1.9.2 Antibiotics
    • 1.9.3 Dietary management
  • 1.10 Surgical treatment of complications after gallbladder removal
    • 1.10.1 Early complications 10.2 Late complications
    • 1.10.3 Treatment options
  • 1.11 Rehabilitation after gallbladder removal
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Q&A:
    • • 1.13.0.1 What is a gallbladder?
      • 1.13.0.2 Why might a gallbladder be removed?
      • 1.13.0.3 What are the complications after gallbladder removal?
      • 1.13.0.4 What are the possible causes of complications after gallbladder removal?
      • 1.13.0.5 How can complications after gallbladder removal be distinguished from normal body reactions?
      • 1.13.0.6 How are complications after gallbladder removal treated?

Find out about possible complications that can occur after gallbladder removal and how to prevent them. Read our article and stay healthy!

The gallbladder is an organ that is located next to the liver in a person and performs an important function in the process of digestion. However, in some cases, the gallbladder can become a source of problems and diseases. And in such cases, it may need to be removed. But after the operation, complications may occur that require additional treatment and attention from doctors and patients.

In this article we will look at the causes of complications after gallbladder removal, as well as the symptoms by which these complications can be recognized and methods of their treatment. If you have had surgery to remove your gallbladder or are about to do it, then this information will be useful for you and will allow you to seek help in a timely manner if necessary.

It is important to understand that complications can be either temporary symptoms, such as intra-abdominal pain after surgery, or more serious diseases that require responsible and competent treatment. But often it depends on many factors, including the general health of the patient, the condition after the operation, and the length of time since the removal of the gallbladder.

Complications after removal of the gallbladder

Biliary peritonitis

This complication occurs when bile leaks into the abdominal cavity during surgery. Symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, extreme thirst, fever, and severe health problems. Treatment for this complication is surgery to remove bile from the abdomen, antibiotics, and fluid therapy.

Digestive problems

After removal of the gallbladder, the food goes directly to the intestines without prior treatment with bile. This can lead to indigestion, diarrhea, flatulence and jaundice. Treatment may include dietary changes, enzymes, and supplemental bile acids.

Scarring and adhesions

Removal of the gallbladder may result in scarring and adhesions in the abdomen, which can cause abdominal pain and dysfunction of other organs. Treatment may include surgery to remove scars and adhesions.

Gallstone disease

After removal of the gallbladder, gallstones can continue to form and travel through the bile ducts, which can lead to blockage and inflammation. Symptoms may include right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment may include drugs to dissolve the stones and surgery to remove them.

Complications after gallbladder surgery: causes and possible complications

Causes of complications

Complications after gallbladder removal can occur for various reasons. One of the main reasons is an unprofessional operation, when the surrounding tissues and organs, such as the bile ducts, were damaged during the removal of the bladder.

In addition, the development of complications can be influenced by an unhealthy lifestyle and diet after surgery. So, the use of fatty and spicy foods, alcohol, smoking, as well as strenuous physical activity can cause various complications, such as pain and discomfort in the abdomen, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and other digestive disorders.

To prevent complications, it is necessary to carefully monitor the state of health, follow the recommendations of doctors and follow the correct diet in the postoperative period. If any symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Symptoms indicating possible complications after removal of the gallbladder

Operational period

In the first few days after surgery, there may be severe pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and under the scapula, caused by spasms of the biliary tract and possible penetration of bile into the surrounding tissues. Nausea, vomiting, fever, and increased heart rate may also occur.

These symptoms usually resolve within a few days after surgery, but if symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.

Late complications

Symptoms, which may indicate possible complications after gallbladder removal, may appear days or even weeks after the operation. These may include:

• abdominal pain, which may be acute or moderate;
• recurring attacks of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea;
• yellow-brown color of the skin and whites of the eyes, which may indicate problems with the liver;
• biliary peritonitis, which occurs when bile enters the abdominal cavity;
• jaundice due to stones in the common bile duct;
• intra-abdominal bleeding, which can occur when adjacent blood vessels are damaged.

If you notice these symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Complications after gallbladder removal: symptoms, causes and treatment

Jaundice as a complication

Jaundice is a condition where the skin, eyes and mucous membranes turn yellow. This is a very common complication after gallbladder removal.

Symptoms of jaundice after gallbladder removal may include yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, itchy skin, tiredness, and a puffy face.

Doctors may prescribe medication or a special diet to treat jaundice. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

You can protect your health after having your gallbladder removed by watching your diet, avoiding fatty, spicy and spicy foods, and having regular medical check-ups.

1. Symptoms of jaundice include yellowish coloration of the skin and eyes, dark urine, light-colored stools, itchy skin, tiredness and a puffy face.
2. Doctors may prescribe medication or a special diet to treat jaundice.
3. You can protect your health after having your gallbladder removed by watching your diet, avoiding fatty, spicy and spicy foods, and having regular medical check-ups.

The pancreas and its functions

The pancreas is a vital organ in our body. It is located in the upper abdomen, behind the stomach. Its functions include the production of enzymes necessary for the proper digestion of food, as well as the production of insulin and other hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels.

When the gallbladder is removed, the risk of complications with the pancreas increases, since this gland is associated with bile. Complications may consist in the fact that the pancreas may be injured during the operation to remove the gallbladder or reduce its functionality due to obvious changes in the digestive system.

• Symptoms of pancreatic problems:
  • abdominal pain;
  • appetite disturbance;
  • diarrhea and constipation;
  • nausea and vomiting.

If you notice any of the above symptoms, please see your doctor. Diagnosis of pancreatic disease may include a variety of tests, including ultrasound, CT, MRI, and blood tests. Treatment usually depends on the underlying cause of the pancreatic problem.

Complications after gallbladder removal: bile duct stones

What is it?

Bile duct stones are one of the complications after gallbladder removal. They are formed in the channels through which bile exits the liver into the intestines. This can happen because bile begins to stagnate and become thicker in the absence of a gallbladder.

What symptoms appear?

Bile duct stones can cause jaundice, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, and other symptoms that may be similar to those of other diseases.

How to treat?

Treatment of bile duct stones may include a number of procedures such as endoscopic stone removal, lithotripsy (breaking up stones using ultrasound), and surgery. Treatment is chosen based on the size and number of stones, as well as the symptoms they cause.

How to prevent?

Bile duct stones can be prevented through a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition, regular exercise, and not smoking. It is also important to monitor your health and avoid having your gallbladder removed if possible.

Increased risk of infection and inflammation

Removal of the gallbladder may cause an increased risk of infection and inflammation, which can lead to serious complications. This is because bile, which is secreted by the liver, plays an important role in digesting food and protecting the body from bacteria and infections.

To prevent infection and inflammation after gallbladder removal, it is important to follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding diet, exercise, and medication. You can also take probiotics to restore the balance of microflora and strengthen immunity. In case of symptoms of infection or inflammation, you should consult a doctor to prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Complications after gallbladder removal

Indigestion after gallbladder removal

Some patients may experience digestive problems after gallbladder removal. This is because the bile that used to be stored in the gallbladder now flows directly from the liver to the intestines. Due to the lack of a reservoir for bile, bile can enter the intestine unevenly and cause various problems.

One of the most common symptoms of indigestion after gallbladder removal is diarrhea. This may be because bile enters the intestines too quickly or unevenly, causing irritation to the intestines. Gas, abdominal pain, and heartburn are also possible.

To improve digestion and reduce the risk of complications, patients are advised to eat a diet containing less fat and more easily digestible foods. You may also need to take choleretic drugs and enzymes to help your body digest food and absorb fatty substances.

• Signs of indigestion after removal of the gallbladder:
  • Diarrhea;
  • Gases;
  • Abdominal pain;
  • Heartburn.

It is important to understand that indigestion after gallbladder removal is a fairly common occurrence that cannot always be prevented. However, following the doctor’s recommendations and diet, as well as taking the necessary medications, can help reduce the risk of problems and improve the general condition of the patient.

Non-surgical treatment of complications after gallbladder removal

Use of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs

For complications such as choledocholithiasis, cholangitis and pancreatitis, anti-inflammatory and pain medications may be prescribed. They help reduce inflammation and reduce pain.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or diclofenac can quickly reduce pain and inflammation. However, they are not recommended for patients with gastrointestinal disorders such as gastritis or stomach ulcers.
• Paracetamol may be prescribed to reduce pain, however, it is not recommended to exceed the dose, as this can cause liver damage.
• Corticosteroids may be used if pain and inflammation are severe. However, their use may be limited as they may cause side effects such as hypertension and hyperglycemia.

Antibiotics

Infectious complications such as cholangitis may be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics help fight infection and prevent it from spreading.

• Amoxicillin and metronidazole may be given to fight infection with anaerobic bacteria.
• Ceftriaxone and metronidazole may be given to fight infection with Gram-negative bacteria.
• Azithromycin may be prescribed to fight an infection caused by atypical bacteria.

Dieting

Some complications such as persistent diarrhea and constipation can be improved by dieting. Patients are advised to eat more fiber-rich foods and avoid fatty and spicy foods.

Non-surgical treatment of complications after gallbladder removal can be an effective way to manage some problems and reduce their symptoms. However, in some cases, surgery may be required.

Surgery for complications after gallbladder removal

Early complications

Early complications after gallbladder removal such as bleeding, infection, or gallbladder formation may require a second surgical procedure. Such complications can occur if the operation was performed by an unqualified surgeon or if there are pathologies in the bile ducts.

Late complications

Late complications may occur months or years after surgery. They may include the formation of stones in the bile ducts, the development of postcholecystectomy syndrome, or complications due to scar tissue in the biliary system.

Treatment options

Depending on the type of complication, appropriate surgical treatment is required. For example, if stones form in the bile ducts, an endoscopic procedure may be needed to remove the stones. If postcholecystectomy syndrome develops, symptoms can be treated, such as prescribing drugs to reduce pain. If the problem is related to scar tissue, surgical treatment involves cutting and removing this tissue.

Rehabilitation after gallbladder removal

Gallbladder removal is one of the most common surgeries. While the procedure is usually uneventful, the postoperative period can be challenging. Rehabilitation after removal of the gallbladder will include several stages.

• First days after surgery . During this period, patients are prescribed to drink fluids. Gradually, they begin to eat only a few spoonfuls of food. To prevent hernias, patients are supposed to lie on their backs, not on their sides.
• Return to normal activities . Although patients may feel pain, they are allowed to slowly return to activity a few days after surgery. Moderate exercise and a light walk in the fresh air can help stimulate recovery.
• Dietary advice . Although the build-up of food after surgery can be accelerated, patients are still advised to follow a diet consisting of easily digestible proteins and fats that will not put too much stress on the organs.

After gallbladder removal, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations and not to put too much strain on the body. Contact a specialist to learn more about rehabilitation after surgery.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What is the gallbladder?

The gallbladder is an organ located under the liver that temporarily stores bile produced by the liver. It secretes bile into the intestines when eating and helps in the digestion process.

Why might a gallbladder be removed?

Gallbladder removal is usually done when the patient has ongoing gallbladder problems such as extra gallstones or chronic inflammation. Also, sometimes surgery is necessary if there is a tumor.

What are the complications after gallbladder removal?

After removal of the gallbladder, the patient may experience complications such as: abdominal pain, belching, gas, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.

What are the possible causes of complications after removal of the gallbladder?

Complications can be caused by various factors, such as infections, dietary changes, changes in the intestinal microflora, allergic reactions to anesthesia.

How can complications after gallbladder removal be distinguished from normal body reactions?

Complications after gallbladder removal usually appear a few days after the operation. If these symptoms persist for more than a week, you should consult a doctor. He may order tests, examinations, and x-rays to determine if there are complications.

How are complications after gallbladder removal treated?

Treatment of complications depends on the type and severity of complications. In some cases, simple measures such as proper nutrition, daily routine, antibiotics and yoga are enough. In more complex cases, medications and even a second operation may be required.

Postcholecystectomy syndrome: how to get rid of pain in the right side?

Postcholecystectomy syndrome is a complex of symptoms that develops after an operation to remove the gallbladder. The disease is manifested by recurrent pain attacks, digestive disorders, diarrhea, steatorrhea, hypovitaminosis, and weight loss.

Right side hurts after gallbladder removal ? You may have developed postcholecystectomy syndrome. To get rid of it, you need to undergo timely examination and treatment.

PCES occurs in approximately 10-15% of patients. In women, it is diagnosed almost 2 times more often than in men. Postcholecystectomy syndrome may appear immediately after surgical removal of the gallbladder or may occur after a long period of time (several months or even years).

Postcholecystectomy syndrome: causes of development

Postcholecystectomy syndrome causes a violation of the outflow of bile after an operation to remove the gallbladder, which was a reservoir for its storage and took part in its release into the duodenum – in a timely manner and in sufficient quantity.

Postcholecystectomy Syndrome: Symptoms

Postcholecystectomy Syndrome may present with preoperative symptoms, but they are usually less severe. In most cases, we are talking about pain in the right hypochondrium, because Right side hurts after gallbladder removal . The pain can be different – sharp or dull.

The second most common symptom is a violation of the digestive tract, which is manifested by nausea, bloating, rumbling in the abdomen, belching, heartburn, diarrhea. Such disorders lead to a deterioration in the absorption of food in the duodenum and the occurrence of malabsorption syndrome. As a result, postcholecystectomy syndrome can lead to hypovitaminosis, general weakness, weight loss, stomatitis.

In addition, body temperature may rise, jaundice of the skin and sclera may appear. In general, postcholecystectomy syndrome can be expressed by various pathologies of the liver and other organs of the digestive system.

Postcholecystectomy syndrome: diagnosis

When postcholecystectomy syndrome is suspected, the diagnosis of developing disease may be hampered by vague or mild symptoms.