Gallbladders gotta go

Hey Everyone, I joined a while ago but I don't post as often as I should. I need to get better at that. anyways. I have found out that I have to have my gallbladder taken out as it is not working how it should. NO stones thank god but still in a lot of discomfort. Was hoping that I would be ok with it but the decision has come to have it taken out. Any advise about post op? Things I should be aware of?  Problems? Thanks In advance for the help. I am really nervous, You would think this would be nothing after a my surgery. Anyways the date is scheduled for July 14th Thansk again for the help! And yes Colleen I will make it to one of the coffee Saturdays!

They took mine out the same time they did my RNY and I had no problems at all.

Briane~Welcome!  This is the first time I think I have seen a post from you!  I too had my gallbladder out at the same time as my RNY so I am not of much help there, but both my mom and little sis had theirs out so let me check with them and see if they have any words of wisdom to share!  I hope to see you around more often!  ~Nicole

I had mine out 26 years ago.  It will be fine.  A woman at work had hers out a couple of years ago and was back to work in two weeks in tip top shape!!!  I'll bet the bowel prep for the surgery will probably the worst part of your surgery.

Best Wishes!

I had mine out same time as my ryn- no problems that I am aware of- 6 weeks post op =)

 

I had my gall bladder out three years ago.  I was back to normal in about two weeks.  I had it done lap so it was a lot better recovery.  I think the reason it took me the full two weeks is because I had a complication.  After the removed mine more stones got stuck and they had to go down my throat with a scope (ERCP) and move the stones.  I think I could have been recovered sooner but I would count on two weeks for sure. Good Luck! Jennifer 

I looked around for some info for you and here is what I found.  A website by Society of American Gastrointetional and Enscopic Surgeons (SAGE) http://www.sages.org/sagespublication.php?doc=PI11 They had this as well as some info pre-op as well.  I hope this helps! 

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER GALLBLADDER SURGERY?

• Gallbladder removal is a major abdominal operation and a certain amount of postoperative pain occurs. Nausea and vomiting are not uncommon.
• Once liquids or a diet is tolerated, patients leave the hospital the same day or day following the laparoscopic gallbladder surgery.
• Activity is dependent on how the patient feels. Walking is encouraged. Patients can remove the dressings and shower the day after the operation.
• Patients will probably be able to return to normal activities within a week's time, including driving, walking up stairs, light lifting and working.
• In general, recovery should be progressive, once the patient is at home.
• The onset of fever, yellow skin or eyes, worsening abdominal pain, distention, persistent nausea or vomiting, or drainage from the incision are indications that a complication may have occurred. Your surgeon should be contacted in these instances.
• Most patients who have a laparoscopic gallbladder removal go home from the hospital the day after surgery. Some may even go home the same day the operation is performed.
• Most patients can return to work within seven days following the laparoscopic procedure depending on the nature of your job. Patients with administrative or desk jobs usually return in a few days while those involved in manual labor or heavy lifting may require a bit more time. Patients undergoing the open procedure usually resume normal activities in four to six weeks.
• Make an appointment with your surgeon within 2 weeks following your operation.

Hi and Welcome!  I was 14 months post op when I had to have mine taken out (no stones, TONS of sludge and not working right).  I felt SOOOOOOOOOO much better after the groggy wore off!  You'll do great!  Ease your mind and know that you'll be feeling better!

Hey Brian! Good to see you here!  I still have my gallbladder.  I know you'll feel better after yours is gone and the pain is gone!!!  LisaB. just had hers out about a month or two ago.  I believe she is feeling better. Good to see you here! Colleen PS-coffee at Burnsville Panera this week!