Is there still a gallbladder after gallstone surgery?

Sep 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Whether the gallbladder remains after gallstone surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. If a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) was done, the gallbladder is no longer present after surgery. However, if a gallbladder-preserving stone extraction procedure was performed, the gallbladder is retained. Therefore, the key factor determining whether the gallbladder remains after gallstone surgery is whether the gallbladder was preserved during the operation. Regardless of the type of surgery, patients should follow their doctor's recommendations regarding dietary adjustments and regular follow-up examinations to support recovery.

Generally speaking, whether the gallbladder remains after surgery for gallstones depends on the type of procedure performed. If a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) was done, there will be no gallbladder left after surgery; if a gallstone removal with gallbladder preservation was performed, the gallbladder will remain. The details are as follows:

From the perspective of surgical type, the most commonly used treatment for gallstones today is cholecystectomy, in which the entire diseased gallbladder is removed. Since the main function of the gallbladder is to store and concentrate bile, once it is removed, the body no longer has a gallbladder. However, the liver will continue to secrete bile, which flows directly into the intestine and gradually aids digestion. The body will slowly adapt to this change.

In contrast, gallbladder-preserving stone extraction involves only removing the stones from the gallbladder without removing the organ itself. This procedure is suitable when the gallbladder still has good function and there is no severe inflammation or atrophy. After this surgery, the gallbladder remains and continues to store bile. However, it's important to note that there is a certain risk of stone recurrence after this procedure. Therefore, regular follow-up examinations and dietary adjustments should be made according to the doctor’s instructions.

Therefore, whether the gallbladder remains after gallstone surgery mainly depends on whether the gallbladder was preserved during the operation. Regardless of the type of surgery, patients should follow their doctor’s advice regarding dietary adjustments and regular check-ups to support recovery. If unsure about the type of surgery performed, patients should consult their attending physician to understand the specific postoperative care requirements.

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What are the ultrasound findings of gallstones?

In general, gallstones—solid crystalline substances formed within the gallbladder—appear on B-mode ultrasound as hyperechoic masses with posterior acoustic shadowing, mobility with changes in body position, gallbladder wall alterations, and abnormal bile transmission within the gallbladder. Patients are advised to maintain a low-fat diet, avoid overeating, and minimize stimulation of gallbladder contraction. Regular follow-up gallbladder ultrasounds are recommended to closely monitor the size of the stones.

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Which is more serious: gallbladder polyps or gallstones?

It is not possible to directly determine which is more severe between gallbladder polyps and gallstones, as both conditions can be benign and low-risk in some cases, yet both also carry the potential to cause serious complications. The key factor lies in the specific characteristics of the lesion and whether complications have developed. Both gallbladder polyps and gallstones may lead to significant health problems; the crucial aspect is early detection, early diagnosis, and timely treatment.

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Where is the incision made for gallstone surgery?

In general, the surgical incision site for gallstones is determined based on the surgical approach and the patient's specific condition. Common incision sites include below the right upper abdominal rib margin, mid-upper abdomen, laparoscopic port sites in the right upper abdomen, the umbilicus, and below the xiphoid process. Ultimately, the choice of incision site must be decided by the physician, taking into account factors such as the size and location of the stones, the degree of gallbladder inflammation, and the selected surgical method.

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Can gallstones be passed out?

In general, whether gallstones can be passed depends on the size and location of the stones, as well as the patient's specific symptoms and complications. If discomfort occurs—such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or fever—it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid risks associated with self-treatment. Regardless of whether the stones can be expelled, regular monitoring via ultrasound is necessary to track changes in the stones. A low-fat diet should be maintained in daily life.