How to perform surgery for gallstones

Surgery for gallstones is usually determined by the severity of symptoms, location of the stones, and the patient's health. There are three main methods: laparoscopic cholecystectomy, open cholecystectomy, and minimally invasive surgery under choledochoscopy. When choosing a surgical method, you should consider the doctor's advice and your personal health condition.

1. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

This is a common method for treating gallstones, and is widely used because of its minimal trauma and quick recovery. During this operation, the doctor inserts a laparoscope and other surgical tools through a small incision in the abdomen to remove the gallbladder. After the operation, the patient can generally recover fully within 2-3 weeks, and the pain after the operation is relatively mild.

2. Open cholecystectomy

For some complex cases, such as patients with severe gallbladder infection or other abdominal surgery history, traditional laparotomy may be more appropriate. This surgery removes the gallbladder through a larger abdominal incision. Compared with laparoscopic surgery, the recovery time is longer, about 6-8 weeks, but it provides greater safety for complex cases.

3. Minimally invasive surgery under choledochoscopy

This technique is mainly used to treat common bile duct stones. Through endoscopic technology, doctors can directly remove stones in the bile duct. This method is less invasive and suitable for patients who are unwilling or unable to undergo traditional surgery. However, this surgery requires certain medical equipment and professional technicians.

Healthy diet and proper exercise can also assist recovery after surgery. For example, controlling fat intake in the diet and increasing fiber intake can help reduce the viscosity of bile, thereby reducing the risk of postoperative recurrence. Maintaining moderate exercise can also help speed up postoperative recovery.

When facing gallstone surgery, it is crucial to choose the right surgical plan. Patients are advised to fully discuss with professional doctors and make careful decisions. After surgery, maintaining good living habits will help you recover. Before surgery, understanding the indications and postoperative recovery requirements of each surgery can help patients better manage surgical expectations and postoperative care. If you have symptoms related to gallstones, be sure to see a doctor as soon as possible and take the appropriate surgical plan to eliminate health risks as soon as possible.