General risks

·      0.5% risk of damage to bile duct and bowel – this is primarily due to the shear proximity of the gallbladder to the bile duct and bowel. They are only separated by few millimetres. Risk is really low, and we take precautions to avoid an injury - complete visualisation of the anatomy (Calot’s triangle) to achieve ‘critical view of safety’ and use of an on-table cholangiogram to confirm the anatomy before any further dissections.

·      Bile leak and collection of bile under the liver – the risk is small (<1%). If the collection is small, we don’t need to worry, and it will get absorbed. However, if it is significant, you will then need a re-laparoscopy and washout.

·      Port site hernia – all port sites larger than 10 mm will be closed with stiches. To avoid the risk, you will be advised to avoid lifting any heavy weights at least for 4 weeks until the healing is complete, and the scars are mature.

·      Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) – as it is going to be a day case and you are expected to be mobile soon after you recover, the risks are low. We will use automatic compression boots and stocking to reduce the risks. Please mobilise as much as you can after the operation and drink plenty of water to help. If you smoke, or if you do take contraceptive pills or if you have a history of clots or increased risk of clotting – then you need to be extra causes and it is worthwhile using the stockings for at least 2 weeks after the operation.

·      General anaesthetic (GA) risks - These will be explained to you by the anaesthetist on the day. Risks are low and will depend on your previous medical history

·      Others – Pain, bruising, wound infection – we take precautions to avoid these.

Post op care

·      You will recover in the ward and will be discharged on the same day. Please ask the nurses if you need a sick note

·      As you had general anaesthesia – you are expected to be accompanied by an adult for at least 24h

·      You can eat and drink as usual after the operation. You may find it a bit uneasy with fatty food for a bout 2 weeks.

·      Please expect the bowels to be somewhat loose for few weeks – this will settle with time. Being on good high fibre diet will help

·      Please mobilise as much as you can after the operation and drink plenty of water.

·      Take regular pain relief (will be supplied on discharge) at least for about 5 – 7 days

·      All your wound will be glued – that means you can have a shower from next day onwards

·      All your wound stiches are absorbable – that means they don’t need to be removed.

·      Please don’t lift any heavy weights at least for 4 weeks until the healing is complete, and the scars are mature. The simplest way is to ask yourself the question ‘am I going to contract my tummy muscles when I do that job?” – if the answer is a ‘yes’, please avoid the activity and find alternative ways or help.  

·      Please avoid driving for at least 1 week or until you can do an emergency stop (but check with your insurer first)

·      Please avoid and flying for about 10 – 14 days

·      Please don’t drink alcohol for 2 days after the operation

·      You are not expected to attend a post op check-up at the hospital. Please meet your GP if you have any concerns unrelated to the operation. You will be notified about the histology of the gallbladder after about 2 - 3 weeks.

·      After discharge - you will receive a telephone call from the nurses to see how you are. However, if you have any concerns after the operation, please ring the Oaks hospital (number will be given on discharge) and speak with a nurse who will escalate your concerns directly with me.