As many as 20 million Americans have gallstones. Though not everyone experiences symptoms from their gallstones, for some, the pain can be unbearable and benefit from gallbladder surgery. Often complications of not having surgery can be life threatening. Dr. Serrano, DO, FACOS, uses the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques to perform gallbladder surgery safely and efficiently. This includes ICG or Indocyanine Green dye, used to illuminate the bilary ductal structures and assist verify their anatomy, before transecting them free from the gallbladder. Often his surgeries are performed under an hour and most often resulting in discharge to your home the same day. To request a surgical consultation, contact the office by phone today or use the online booking tool.
Request an AppointmentWhat is the gallbladder?
Your gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ found near your liver. Its primary purpose is to collect and store bile produced in your liver. Bile assists with the digestion of fat in food.
In some people, the bile in the gallbladder can harden and create gallstones. These stones can be as small as a pencil eraser or as large as a golf ball. Gallstones don’t always cause symptoms, but for some people, they can cause pain and inflammation.
Why would I need gallbladder surgery?
If your gallstones are causing symptoms, then you may benefit from gallbladder surgery. The types of symptoms that may warrant surgery include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Pain after eating
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Jaundice (yellowing of your skin)
Though your gallbladder serves an important purpose for your digestive system, you don’t need the organ to survive. Once removed, your liver takes over the function of the gallbladder and delivers the bile directly to your digestive system when needed. Living without your gallbladder is like living without your appendix, your body will not miss it.
How is gallbladder surgery performed?
Dr. Serrano is a skilled surgeon and uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques to perform gallbladder surgery. The surgical options for gallbladder removal include:
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that requires at least four tiny incisions for the removal of your gallbladder.
Dr. Serrano determines the best surgical approach for you based on your medical and surgical history. He prefers taking a less invasive approach to reduce your risk and recovery time. However, in some cases, other surgical approaches are safer.
UMI (Ultra Minimally Invasive)
This specific technique was thought of by Dr. Serrano himself. It incorporates the advanced techniques of robotics and laparoscopy to produce a cosmetic outcome far superior to both, with less risk and reduced cost. It is an option, but because of it’s high level of technicality there are more provisions on who can be a candidate. Dr.
Serrano can help you make this decision.
What happens after gallbladder surgery?
Dr. Serrano provides specific instructions on what to expect following your gallbladder surgery, including how to care for your wound and recovery time. He may suggest you modify your diet and minimize your intake of foods high in fat during your recovery period as it may take some time for your liver to take over the function of your gallbladder.
Eating fatty foods soon after your surgery may lead to abdominal pain and diarrhea.
For a consultation with the surgical expert, call at Precision Surgery and Advanced Vein Therapy, or request an appointment online today.