The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ on the underside of the liver that is used to store bile. Bile is made in the liver and is stored in the gallbladder until it is needed to help digest fat.

Gallbladder disease is a common condition that affects mainly women, although men can suffer too. The most common reason for gallbladder disease is gallstones. Gallstones are formed when bile contains too much cholesterol. The excess cholesterol forms crystals from which gallstones are made. When an operation is required for gallstones in the gallbladder it is usual to remove the gallbladder and gallstones together. This is called cholecystectomy.

Different types of liver disorders may require surgery. The most common operation is a resection or removal of a portion of the liver. The most typical indication for liver resection is a malignant cancerous tumor, although large, benign (non-cancerous) tumors causing discomfort can also be treated with a liver resection.

Our surgeons are very experienced with laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder.

This service is provided at Surgical Specialists (Columbia), Surgical Specialists (Pacific).