Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Gallbladder Removal & Diet

The gallbladder stores bile, which is a digestive liquid, and releases it after eating, but when it's not working correctly it sometimes must be removed. Gallbladder surgery can be performed with open or laparoscopic techniques. In an open technique, a large incision is made in the abdomen and the gallbladder is removed. In a laparoscopic procedure, a small incision is made so a miniature camera and instruments can be inserted so that gallbladder removal leaves an almost undetectable scar.


Pre-Operative Diet


It is common for a physician to recommend dietary restrictions prior to surgery. Typically, patients are asked to refrain from eating solid food or liquids other than water beginning 12 hours before surgery.


Post-Operative Diet


After the gallbladder has been removed, a patient's diet may be restricted to liquids for a day or two before he can proceed to consuming a low-fat diet.


Long-Term Diet








It is common for a physician to recommend that her patient continue with a low-fat diet before easing back into a a regular eating routine, though some doctors prescribe staying with the leaner regimen indefinitely.


Diarrhea and Constipation


Diarrhea or constipation may occur after gallbladder removal. Over-the-counter remedies can provide a short-term solution, but your physician should be consulted if the problem persists.


Activity


A patient typically can resume some physical activity within about four days of surgery and begin doing weightlifting exercises about two weeks later.

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