Cholecystectomy

Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder, which is an organ located in the upper right side of the abdomen. It is typically performed to treat gallstones, which are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can cause abdominal pain and other symptoms. Cholecystectomy is an effective treatment for gallstones that do not respond to other treatments, and is one of the most common abdominal surgeries performed in the United States. After the gallbladder is removed, the patient is typically able to return to their normal activities in one to two weeks. The long-term success rate and lack of serious complications associated with cholecystectomy make it a very safe and effective way to treat gallstones.