The gallbladder is not an essential organ. It can be removed with minimal long-term effects. In fact, removal is the only way to permanently prevent the recurrence of gallstones as well as gallbladder cancer. The most common method for gallbladder removal is a laparoscopic procedure, which involves several small incisions and allows for an easier recovery. Certain symptoms commonly occur for a short period after surgery.
Pain
Although the pain is significantly less severe after laparoscopic gallbladder surgery versus traditional "open" surgery involving one long incision, a certain amount of pain and/or soreness often does occur after surgery, according to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The pain and soreness commonly persist for only a day or two after surgery. The small surgical incisions may be painful, as can the upper abdomen, which is where the gallbladder had been located.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Altered digestion may manifest itself as gastrointestinal tract problems. The University of Maryland reports that nausea and vomiting are relatively common symptoms following this surgery. These symptoms are often treated with anti-nausea medication. Diarrhea is also common while the body adjusts to digesting food without a gallbladder. Conversely, anesthesia from the surgery may cause constipation. The University of North Carolina School of Medicine adds that eating foods such as bananas, toast, and rice for a few days helps to improve gastrointestinal symptoms until normal digestion and appetite return. UNC also advises eating fiber to improve symptoms associated with constipation.
Gas
During a laparoscopic procedure, the surgeon inflates the abdomen with carbon dioxide, a safe gas, to create room for the safe manipulation of surgical tools and/or imaging instruments. Although most of this gas is removed before the incisions are closed, some gas remains for a few days. The University of Michigan Health System states that the remaining gas may cause pain in the patients' shoulder and/or belly. This pain usually only lasts for a couple of days.
