Gallstones removal is a common surgical treatment in Singapore for patients who develop symptomatic gallstones, which can cause recurring abdominal pain, nausea, bloating, or inflammation of the gallbladder. In most cases today, treatment is performed using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery, a minimally invasive approach that involves small incisions and is widely adopted due to its safety profile, faster recovery time, and reduced post-operative discomfort compared to traditional open surgery.
This method has become the standard approach for many patients requiring surgery. For more background on the condition, visit https://gallbladderdr.sg/gallstones-cholelithiasis/. In this article, we will walk through the step-by-step process of how gallstones removal surgery is performed, from preparation to recovery, so patients can better understand what to expect.
Why Gallstones Removal Is Needed
Gallstones removal is typically recommended when gallstones begin to cause symptoms or complications that affect a patient’s daily life. Many individuals may have gallstones without any symptoms, and in such cases, surgery may not be immediately necessary. However, once symptoms develop, the condition often becomes recurrent and progressively more disruptive.
The most common reason for surgery is biliary colic, where patients experience episodes of sharp or cramping pain in the upper right abdomen, often triggered by fatty meals. This pain may come and go but can become increasingly frequent or severe over time.
Gallstones removal is also indicated when complications arise, such as inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), infection, or blockage of the bile ducts. In some cases, gallstones may even lead to more serious conditions like pancreatitis, which requires urgent medical attention. Because of these risks, surgery is often considered the most definitive and effective long-term solution for symptomatic gallstones.
Pre-Surgery Assessment and Preparation
Before gallstones removal surgery, patients will undergo a structured pre-operative assessment to ensure the procedure is safe and appropriately planned. This usually begins with a detailed consultation where symptoms, medical history, and previous imaging results are reviewed. An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to confirm the presence and extent of gallstones, while blood tests help assess liver function and overall health.
Typical preparation steps include:
- Fasting instructions: Patients are required to avoid food and drink for several hours before surgery
- Medication review: Certain medications, especially blood thinners, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped
- Anaesthesia assessment: A pre-operative review by the anaesthetist to ensure suitability for general anaesthesia
- Pre-surgical testing: Additional scans or ECG may be arranged if needed based on individual risk factors
On the day of surgery, final checks are completed in the hospital or day surgery centre. Vital signs are recorded, consent is confirmed, and the surgical plan is reviewed before proceeding with gallstones removal.
Arrival at Hospital and Anaesthesia Process
On the day of gallstones removal surgery, patients are usually admitted a few hours before the procedure for final preparation. The nursing team will check vital signs, confirm fasting status, and ensure all pre-operative assessments and consent forms are in order. Patients are then changed into surgical attire and prepared for the operating theatre.
In the operating room, general anaesthesia is administered by the anaesthetist. This ensures the patient is fully asleep throughout the procedure and does not feel any pain or discomfort. A breathing tube may be placed to support respiration, and monitoring devices are attached to track heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital parameters continuously. Once the patient is fully anaesthetised and stable, the surgical team proceeds with the gallstones removal procedure in a controlled and closely monitored environment.
Step-by-Step: How Keyhole Gallstones Removal Is Done
Gallstones removal using keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery is performed through several small incisions in the abdomen. Carbon dioxide gas is gently used to inflate the abdomen, creating space for the surgeon to operate safely and clearly. A small camera (laparoscope) is inserted through one incision to provide a magnified view of the internal organs.
Additional instruments are inserted through other small cuts to carefully separate the gallbladder from surrounding tissues. The cystic duct and blood vessels are securely clipped and divided before the gallbladder is removed through one of the incisions. Once removal is completed, the surgeon checks for bleeding or bile leakage, removes the instruments, and closes the small wounds with stitches or surgical strips.
What Happens After Surgery
After gallstones removal surgery, patients are transferred to the recovery area where they are closely monitored as the effects of general anaesthesia wear off. It is common to feel drowsy, slightly disoriented, or experience mild abdominal discomfort. Some patients may also notice shoulder pain, which is usually due to the residual gas used during the laparoscopic procedure.
Nurses will regularly check vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels to ensure stable recovery. Pain relief medication is provided if needed to keep discomfort manageable.
Once fully awake and stable, patients are encouraged to start gentle movement. Depending on individual recovery and medical advice, many patients are able to go home on the same day or after a short overnight stay in hospital.
Recovery Phase
After discharge, recovery from gallstones removal is usually straightforward for most patients. Mild abdominal discomfort, bloating, or shoulder ache may persist for a few days but typically improves with simple pain relief and rest. Patients are advised to keep wound sites clean and dry, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for about one to two weeks.
Diet can usually be resumed gradually, starting with light meals before returning to a normal diet as tolerated. Some temporary changes in bowel habits may occur as the body adjusts after gallbladder removal. Most patients are able to return to work and daily routines within a short recovery period.
Conclusion
Gallstones removal using keyhole surgery is a well-established and commonly performed procedure in Singapore, offering a safe and effective solution for patients with symptomatic gallstones. Understanding each step of the process can help patients feel more informed and reassured when considering treatment.
With minimally invasive techniques, most individuals experience a relatively smooth recovery and are able to return to normal daily activities within a short period. To book a call with our clinic to discuss your condition or treatment options, you can reach us out at:
Dr Lee Chin Li – Lee Surgery and Endoscopy | Colorectal Surgery | Gallbladder Surgery Singapore
Phone: +65 8952 6327
Gleneagles Medical Centre
Lee Surgery and Endoscopy
6 Napier Road, #04-16, Singapore 258499
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre (Orchard)
Dr Lee @ KYM Surgery
3 Mount Elizabeth, #12-01, Singapore 228510
Farrer Park Medical Centre
Dr Lee @ KYM Surgery
1 Farrer Park Station Road, #13-05, Singapore 217562
