Minimally Invasive Relief for Gallbladder Pain
The permanent cure for gallstones. We utilize advanced robotic and laparoscopic techniques to get you home the same day with minimal downtime.
Understanding Gallstones & Attacks
The gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile to help digest fats. Sometimes, digestive fluid hardens into deposits called gallstones.
While some stones cause no symptoms, others can block the flow of bile, causing a "gallbladder attack." This results in:
- Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Pain radiating to the right shoulder or back.
Why Surgery?
Unlike kidney stones, gallstones do not pass safely on their own. Medication rarely dissolves them effectively. According to the American College of Surgeons, surgical removal (cholecystectomy) is the only proven, permanent method to prevent future attacks and complications like infection or jaundice.
The Gold Standard in Care
At California Surgical Specialists, we almost exclusively perform Minimally Invasive Surgery. We do not use large incisions unless medically necessary.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
- We make 3-4 tiny incisions (about the size of a keyhole).
- A small camera (laparoscope) guides us to remove the gallbladder safely.
- Benefit: Less pain, minimal scarring, and faster return to work.
Robotic-Assisted Surgery (da Vinci®)
- For patients with complex anatomy or severe inflammation (cholecystitis), we use the robotic system.
- Benefit: The robot provides 3D high-definition vision and enhanced dexterity, allowing us to operate with extreme precision even in difficult cases.
Your Surgery Day
Same-Day Procedure
Gallbladder removal is typically an outpatient surgery. You will arrive in the morning and go home the same afternoon.
Anesthesia
You will be under general anesthesia (fully asleep) and will feel no pain during the procedure.
The Procedure
The surgery typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Going Home
Once you are awake and walking, you are discharged to recover in the comfort of your own home.
Digestive Health After Surgery
A common fear is, "Can I digest food without a gallbladder?" Yes. Your liver produces bile, and the gallbladder just stores it. After removal, the bile flows directly from the liver into the small intestine.
Dietary Adjustments:
Most patients return to a normal diet immediately. Some may experience mild bloating or loose stools when eating very fatty/greasy foods for the first few weeks, but the body adapts quickly.
When to Seek Immediate Help
While elective surgery is preferred, gallstones can sometimes cause emergencies. Seek immediate care if you experience:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
- High fever with chills.
- Uncontrollable abdominal pain that prevents you from sitting still.
These signs may indicate that a stone is blocking the main bile duct or the pancreas, requiring urgent attention.
Precision & Safety
Gallbladder removal is one of the most common surgeries in the U.S., but safety is paramount. Dr. Abidali and Dr. Qureshi utilize advanced robotic platforms to ensure that even if your gallbladder is severely inflamed or scarred, the procedure is done safely with the lowest risk of complications.