By Dr. Frogh-e-Elahi
Consultant General & Laparoscopic Surgeon – Advanced International Hospital, Islamabad

 Why Do People Wait to Remove Their Gallbladder?

• “It’s just a little stomach pain — I’ll manage with diet,” many patients say.
• Some fear surgery or believe gallstones will disappear on their own.
• Delaying can lead to life-threatening complications like infection, pancreatitis, or gallbladder rupture.

 What Is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Lap Chole)?

• A minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder using small incisions and a camera (laparoscope).
• It is the gold standard treatment for gallstones and gallbladder-related issues.
• Replaces traditional open surgery in 95% of cases, offering faster recovery and less pain.

 Why Is the Gallbladder Removed?

• The gallbladder stores bile, but it is not essential for life.
• If it forms stones (cholelithiasis) or becomes inflamed (cholecystitis), it needs to be removed.
• Gallstones can block bile ducts, leading to pain, infection, and even pancreatitis.

 Who Needs Lap Chole?

• Patients diagnosed with:
  • Gallstones causing pain
• • Acute or chronic cholecystitis
• • Bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis)
  • Gallbladder polyps
• Symptoms include:
  • Upper right abdominal pain (especially after fatty meals)
  • Bloating, nausea, vomiting
  • Fever, jaundice in complicated cases

  Risks If Surgery Is Not Performed

• Untreated gallstones can result in:
  • Acute Cholecystitis: Sudden inflammation, requires emergency surgery.
• • Pancreatitis: Bile backing into the pancreas, causing organ damage.
• • Bile Duct Obstruction: Leads to jaundice, infection (cholangitis), or liver damage.
• • Gallbladder Rupture: Can cause peritonitis (life-threatening infection).
  • Sepsis: If infection spreads into the bloodstream.
• What starts as a manageable problem can become a surgical emergency if ignored.

 Benefits of Laparoscopic Surgery Over Open Surgery

• Minimal incisions (just 3–4 small holes)
• Shorter hospital stay (same-day or 24-hour discharge)
• Less postoperative pain
• Quick recovery (back to work in 7–10 days)
• Minimal scarring
• Lower infection risk

How Is Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy Performed?

• A laparoscope (camera) is inserted through a small incision near the belly button.
• Surgical tools are inserted through 2–3 more small incisions.
• The gallbladder is detached and removed carefully.
• The surgery usually lasts 45–60 minutes.
• Patients are monitored and discharged within 24 hours if stable.

Recovery After Lap Chole

• Most patients resume light activity in 2–3 days.
• Full recovery within 7–10 days.
• Normal eating resumes quickly, although high-fat meals should be avoided initially.
• No long-term dietary restrictions for most patients.
• “Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is one of the safest and most effective surgeries we perform. When done early, it prevents serious complications and allows the patient to return to a pain-free life within days.”

 The Role of Advanced International Hospital (AIH) in Lap Chole Surgery

At Advanced International Hospital Islamabad, we offer:

• Modern operation theaters equipped with advanced laparoscopic systems.
• Day-care surgery for eligible patients — walk in and walk out the same day.
• In-house diagnostic imaging (ultrasound, labs) for accurate pre-op evaluation.
• Personalized patient counseling and post-op follow-up care.

Take control of your health before a simple issue becomes a surgical emergency. Book your appointment today for safe, effective laparoscopic surgery.