What complications can occur after cholecystectomy?

Sep 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, cholecystectomy, as a common surgical procedure, may lead to complications including postoperative bleeding, bile leakage, bile duct injury, gastrointestinal reactions, and infection. After surgery, patients should gradually resume their diet as directed by medical advice, progressing from liquid food to a normal diet, while avoiding high-fat foods too early. Appropriate ambulation is recommended to promote recovery of gastrointestinal function.

Generally, cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure, and potential complications may include postoperative bleeding, bile leakage, bile duct injury, gastrointestinal reactions, infection, etc. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Postoperative bleeding: Bleeding into the abdominal cavity or from the incision site may occur shortly after surgery. Intra-abdominal hemorrhage is usually caused by insecure ligation of blood vessels during surgery, manifesting as abdominal pain, bloating, palpitations, and pallor.

2. Bile leakage: Improper suturing of the cystic duct or bile duct during surgery may lead to bile leakage into the abdominal cavity, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and abdominal tenderness. Mild bile leakage can be managed by placing a drainage tube to facilitate bile drainage, while severe cases may require surgical repair of the leak site.

3. Bile duct injury: The bile duct may be accidentally injured during the operation, leading to bile duct stricture or obstruction. Symptoms after surgery may include jaundice, abdominal pain, and fever. Mild injuries can be treated medically, while severe strictures may require surgical placement of a stent or bile duct reconstruction.

4. Gastrointestinal reactions: Patients may experience short-term gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea after surgery. These are mostly due to surgical irritation causing disordered gastrointestinal motility or changes in bile excretion patterns. Symptoms typically gradually improve as the body recovers.

5. Infection: Incision site infections or intra-abdominal infections may occur after surgery. Incision infections present as redness, swelling, pain, and pus discharge at the wound site; intra-abdominal infections may cause abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue. Infections should be controlled through wound dressing changes and antibiotic use.

After surgery, patients should follow medical advice to gradually resume their diet, transitioning from liquid foods to normal diet, avoiding high-fat foods too early. Appropriate ambulation is recommended to promote recovery of gastrointestinal function. Regular follow-up tests including liver function and abdominal ultrasound should be conducted to monitor recovery progress and ensure smooth postoperative rehabilitation.

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What should I eat after having my gallbladder removed?

In general, dietary adjustment after cholecystectomy is crucial and should include a low-fat diet, eating smaller and more frequent meals, increasing protein intake, consuming more dietary fiber, and avoiding irritating foods. After gallbladder removal, the storage and concentration function of bile is affected, leading to a decreased ability to digest fats. Therefore, intake of high-fat foods should be reduced postoperatively, with a preference for light, low-fat diets.

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What are the best treatment options for gallbladder adenomyomatosis?

There is generally no such thing as the "best treatment for gallbladder adenomyomatosis." Treatment methods for gallbladder adenomyomatosis mainly include improving lifestyle habits, medication, endoscopic treatment, partial cholecystectomy, and cholecystectomy. Patients with gallbladder adenomyomatosis need to adjust their diet during treatment and follow the doctor's instructions for regular follow-up examinations to monitor their recovery.

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Is it easy to develop common bile duct stones after gallbladder removal?

Under normal circumstances, after cholecystectomy, patients still have the possibility of developing common bile duct stones, although the risk is relatively low. Patients who have undergone cholecystectomy should actively take preventive measures and follow up regularly as instructed by their physicians. If discomfort occurs, patients are advised to seek timely medical examination at a hospital to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

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Are patients who have undergone cholecystectomy more likely to develop colorectal cancer?

In general, whether patients who have undergone cholecystectomy are more likely to develop colorectal cancer requires a comprehensive assessment based on individual circumstances. If any discomfort or concerns arise, it is recommended to seek timely medical advice from a qualified physician. Patients who have had their gallbladder removed should undergo regular intestinal health screenings, such as colonoscopies, especially those over the age of 50 or with relevant risk factors. A balanced diet should also be maintained in daily life.