Gallbladder Disease & Cholecystectomy

Gallbladder Surgery & Liver Surgery in Austin

The board-certified, experienced surgeons at Capital Surgeons Group regularly perform minimally invasive gallbladder surgery and employ techniques to treat diseases affecting the liver, bile ducts, and pancreas.

Understanding Gallbladder Disease

The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ just below the liver. The most common risk factor for gallbladder cancer is gallstones.

Gallstones are made of cholesterol and other substances that form in the gallbladder and cause chronic inflammation and pebble-like stones. Gallstones can cause severe pain after eating, infection of the gallbladder called cholecystitis, or pass out of the gallbladder, blocking the bile ducts and causing jaundice or pancreatitis.

Our surgeons are experienced in removing gallbladder and liver tumors. They also perform liver resection by removing the diseased part of the liver. The liver is a remarkable organ that can regenerate up to 75% of itself and regain its lost function over time as long as patients adopt and follow healthy lifestyles.

Learning About What to Do for Gallbladder Disease

What is a cholecystectomy procedure?

Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the gallbladder, a small organ located below the liver that stores bile. This procedure is commonly recommended for patients experiencing pain and other symptoms related to gallstones, a condition in which hard, pebble-like deposits form in the gallbladder. Gallstones can cause a range of symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating. If left untreated, they can also lead to serious complications, such as inflammation of the gallbladder or pancreas.

Other reasons for cholecystectomy may include inflammation or infection of the gallbladder or in rare cases, the presence of tumors.

Our clinic offers both traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy and daVinci robotic cholecystectomy, which provides greater precision and control during the surgery. Our experienced surgeons will work with you to determine the best approach for your individual needs and provide you with the highest quality of care.

Different Surgery Types

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope, a thin tube with a camera and light, to view the inside of the abdomen. The surgeon then uses specialized instruments to remove the gallbladder through one of the small incisions.

DaVinci Robotic Cholecystectomy
During a daVinci robotic cholecystectomy, the surgeon uses the daVinci robotic surgery system to perform the procedure. The daVinci system provides greater precision and control, allowing the surgeon to perform the surgery with greater accuracy and less tissue damage. This results in less pain, less scarring, and faster recovery times for the patient.

Benefits of Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy offers several benefits to patients with gallstones or other gallbladder-related issues, including:

Pain relief: Cholecystectomy can provide relief from the pain associated with gallstones.
Improved digestion: Removing the gallbladder can improve digestion and reduce digestive symptoms, such as bloating and gas.
Lower risk of complications: Cholecystectomy can reduce the risk of complications associated with gallstones, such as inflammation of the gallbladder and pancreas.

Recovery from Cholecystectomy

After cholecystectomy, patients can usually return home on the same day. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days to a week after the procedure, but it may take several weeks for the body to fully heal. Patients may experience some pain and discomfort after the surgery, but this can usually be managed with pain medication.

In rare cases, complications such as infection or bleeding may occur after cholecystectomy. However, with proper care and follow-up with your surgeon, these risks can be minimized.

Specialized, Expert Surgical Care

Our experienced surgeons are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care, including cholecystectomy using both traditional laparoscopic and daVinci robotic surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms related to gallstones or other gallbladder issues, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our surgical treatment options. We are here to help you find relief and improve your overall quality of life.

If you have questions about gallbladder or liver health, call our office for information or an appointment. Our gallbladder and liver patients come to us from San Marcos, Austin, Kyle, Lakeway, Leander, Round Rock, and surrounding communities.