Laparoscopic gallbladder removal, or cholecystectomy, is a standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones and selected gallbladder polyps when indicated. It is performed through small incisions under general anaesthesia. The operation often takes around an hour, although complex cases may take longer. Compared with open surgery, the incisions are smaller, but scars, pain and complications remain possible. Discharge is often possible within one or two days, and light everyday activities may resume in about 10-14 days; timing depends on the operation and the individual’s health.
If you would like to see Dmytro Ivanovych Khrystiuk, first check whether he is currently offering appointments and where you can book. During a consultation with your treating surgeon, discuss the reasons for surgery, preparation and who would perform your laparoscopic gallbladder removal, which approach is proposed and why. You can also ask about the surgeon’s experience, overseas training and the imaging equipment available, including whether the Olympus VISERA 4K system would be used. The treatment plan for stones or gallbladder polyps takes account of your test results and general health. Discuss the expected benefits, possible complications and recovery with the surgeon so that you understand the reasons for the recommendation before making a decision.
Cost of laparoscopic gallbladder removal
The cost of cholecystectomy depends on several components:
- An initial surgical consultation;
- Review of your medical history and records, including symptoms, previous illnesses and investigation results. Depending on your needs, tests may include abdominal ultrasound, an ECG, and blood or urine tests. Chest imaging is arranged when clinically necessary;
- Preparation for surgery;
- The cholecystectomy itself;
- Postoperative monitoring and recovery in the Centre for Laparoscopic Surgery.
Before surgery, ask for an itemised estimate showing which investigations are available at the clinic, which services are included in the package and any separate charges. The total depends on the tests required, surgical complexity, anaesthesia and length of hospital stay. You can request a current estimate and list of included services by calling +380953566412.
When is cholecystectomy indicated?
Gallstones that cause pain or complications are a common reason to recommend surgery. For polyps, the decision depends on their size, growth and other risk factors; some can be monitored. Fistulas, perforation and peritonitis may require urgent surgical care. If cancer is suspected, treatment needs an appropriate oncology plan. A stone blocking the common bile duct may need endoscopic or surgical removal, with gallbladder treatment planned alongside it. When serious complications develop, prompt assessment is important: waiting to see whether medicines help can delay the care that is needed.
Frequently asked questions
Can the gallbladder be left in place and just the stones or polyps removed?
When gallstones cause symptoms, removing the gallbladder is usually the standard treatment. Removing only the stones leaves the conditions in which further stones can form. For polyps, the decision depends mainly on the risk of a tumour. Your surgeon weighs the expected benefits against possible complications, including bile leakage, infection and adhesions, and explains which treatment options are suitable for you.
Can polyps or stones develop again after gallbladder removal?
Polyps cannot recur in a gallbladder that has been completely removed. However, stones may remain in, or later form within, the bile ducts. Bile composition, drainage and other factors contribute.
After surgery, advice depends on the condition of the bile ducts, any symptoms and other health problems. Most people recovering from an uncomplicated operation do not need a lifelong special diet or routine medication. Return to everyday activity gradually, and discuss whether follow-up tests or further treatment are needed with the clinician looking after you.
Which tests are needed before cholecystectomy?
- A full blood count and, when indicated, a urine test;
- Chest imaging when there is a clinical reason for it; the team will explain whether it is needed in your case;
- Abdominal ultrasound; an ECG examines the heart and is ordered separately when indicated;
- Tests for syphilis and hepatitis B and C according to the clinical situation and applicable preoperative protocol;
- Review by the clinician who manages any existing condition, such as diabetes or reproductive or cardiovascular disease. The surgeon and anaesthetist agree the final investigation list based on your medical history and health.
How should I prepare for surgery?
Before surgery, ask your surgeon and anaesthetist for written instructions on when to stop eating and drinking and how to take your usual medicines. Use laxatives or an enema, or exclude food groups, only if instructed. Fasting times depend on what you have eaten, the urgency of surgery and the risk of stomach contents entering the airways during anaesthesia. Follow your own team’s instructions and clarify anything you are unsure about in advance.
Can the operation be performed on the day I contact the clinic?
It is sometimes possible if the necessary investigations and preparation have been completed, surgery is appropriate and an operating team is available. The surgeon and anaesthetist assess these factors and discuss the timing with you after your examination.
What are the contraindications and risks?
The surgeon and anaesthetist consider the following conditions when planning your care. They may call for additional preparation, urgent treatment or a different surgical approach:
- Severe cholecystitis often requires urgent care and assessment of the safest treatment approach;
- Perforation, gangrene or marked wall changes may require urgent surgery or another means of controlling the infection;
- Cardiovascular disease and bleeding or clotting disorders require risk assessment and preparation;
- A pacemaker calls for appropriate planning by the team; having one does not, on its own, rule out laparoscopic surgery;
- A common bile duct stone may require endoscopic or surgical duct clearance.
Laparoscopy uses several small incisions. The risks of surgery depend on the condition of the gallbladder, the complexity of the procedure and your overall health, as well as the surgical approach. Bleeding, infection, bile leakage, injury to ducts or other organs, and anaesthetic complications are possible. Conversion to open surgery is sometimes needed for safety. Discuss individual risks before the procedure.
How long do the operation and recovery take?
The duration of surgery and anaesthesia depends on complexity. Clinical staff monitor the patient afterwards. Discharge may be possible the same or next day after an uncomplicated procedure, but some people need a longer stay. The clinic determines follow-up timing, often within the first 7-14 days. Follow advice on medicines and wound care, and increase activity gradually. Your surgeon should specify restrictions on heavy work and lifting.