Many people around the globe have had surgery – and most of these individuals are having gallstone surgery as we speak. The truth is that gallbladder surgery is one of the most common surgeries, and if you have gallstones and are worried about the outcome if you have surgery, then you’ve come to the right place. It is a relatively simple procedure, but of course, you have to do your own bit after the procedure, so you don’t experience any complications. But what can you expect after having gallstone surgery? Here’s a handy guide to your complete recovery.
Laparoscopic or open surgery?
Your recovery period will often depend on the kind of surgery you have. For instance, most people have laparoscopic surgery, where the surgeon makes a few small incisions in the abdomen and passes tubes through these incisions. This type of surgery usually has a shorter recovery period than open surgery, where the surgeon will make a big incision and remove the gallbladder this way.
Both procedures have their merits, and it depends on your surgeon, who will decide which surgery is right for you, as confirmed by experts in gallbladder surgery in London, like The London Surgical Group. Usually, it will be determined by age, condition, and whether or not you’ve had prior surgery in the area, along with other factors.
Waking up in the hospital
While in the recovery area, the staff will constantly monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing until they see that you’re already awake and alert. They will also give you painkillers whenever necessary, and someone will also assist you in standing up and walking. If you’ve had laparoscopic surgery, you will go home on the day itself, and if you’ve had open surgery, you will probably go home a day or two afterwards. Either way, you can drink something after a few hours and slowly begin consuming solid food.
When you leave
When you leave the hospital, it would be best to arrange for someone to accompany you, both to drive you home and to be with you for a day or two, as advised by the same experts at the Londonsurgicalgroup.co.uk.
Recuperating at home
Once you are home, you have to make sure to have what you need – including bandages, medication, and complete instructions on how to tend to yourself. This is why it’s recommended to have someone with you so they can assist you in your recovery, especially during the first few hours and through the night. Your cut or incision should always be dry and clean, and follow your physician’s instructions to the letter, particularly in regards to bathing and caring for your wound/s. It is equally important to take only the medication prescribed or pre-approved by your physician.
When there is cause for concern
Watch out for any signs or symptoms that something is wrong. In most cases, your physician will ask you to come back after two to three weeks to see if all is well and if you are healing nicely. But you must call your physician immediately if you cannot drink, eat, or have a bowel movement.
You should also be wary of other symptoms, such as a high fever, a swollen or painful abdomen, yellowed skin, redness or blood and pus in the wound, severe pain, a cough or breathing issues, and vomiting or nausea.
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