Given the myriad of problems associated with gallstones and the gallbladder in general, it is no surprise that removal of the gallbladder (ie. cholecystectomy) is such a common operation. Professor Gundara’s fellowship training in surgery of the pancreas, liver, bile duct and gallbladder means that he is experienced in this area of surgery ensuring that you will be managed by a surgeon with additional training and experience in the area.
Before undergoing gallbladder surgery, you may be asked to have simple blood tests completed. In addition, an ultrasound is usually the preferred imaging investigation to confirm the presence of gallstones. In more complex cases a CT or MRI scan may be required to clarify the specifics of the problem.
In general, minimally invasive gallbladder surgery is relatively straight forward. Patients generally experience mild discomfort afterwards that is manageable with simple oral analgesia. If completed in the morning, it is often possible to be discharged on the same day, however an overnight stay in hospital is not uncommon. This may change if your gallbladder surgery is an emergency operation. Regardless, the recovery is relatively swift and patients find that they are able to manage their own affairs immediately afterwards. Return to physical activity occurs on a graded basis and most patients can return to work after 1-2 weeks off.
Professor Gundara continues to maintain an active research brief in the area of gallbladder/gallstone related disease and has presented/published widely on related topics. Having an academic surgeon familiar with the latest advancements in the area will ensure that you will benefit personally from his dedicated approach to surgical endeavour.
