Gallbladder surgery pain can range from mild to severe. The surgery is done either by a laparoscopic cholecystectomy or an open cholecystectomy. The laparoscopic cholecystectomy involves several small cuts to allow access for instruments; the gallbladder is then removed through one of the incisions. The open cholecystectomy is one long incision allowing for wider access; the patient may need this type of surgery depending on the condition of the gallbladder or due to scarring from prior abdominal surgeries. There is usually less pain with a laparoscopic cholecystectomy than with an open cholecystectomy.

Prior to surgery

Learning some simple mind-body techniques to help you relax and visualize a healing goal can optimize your recovery and minimize your pain from gallbladder surgery. You can continue these techniques after the surgery and throughout your recovery. The Center for Health and Healing, an initiative of Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, offers a free healing program that includes text, audio and video material. (See References for website.) The center's goal is to address patient care as a whole, encompassing the physical, mental and spiritual being. Aurora Ocampo, the clinical nurse specialist who developed the Mind-Body Techniques for Surgery and Recovery program at the center, said: "When we send the brain relaxation messages, they are passed on to the body's endocrine, immune and autonomic nervous systems. The brain translates these messages into biochemical actions that help the body rebalance to a less stressful state. Together, these systems can help decrease muscle tension and pain, reduce anxiety and lower your blood pressure and heart rate. When that happens, your body is better equipped to handle the stress of surgery and to recover more quickly." Before your surgery, make sure your doctor and anesthesiologist know what medications you are taking and check to see if you should take it on the day of your surgery. Reduce stress in your life as much as possible and refrain from eating fatty, rich and spicy foods before surgery because these foods could bring on a gallstone attack. Increase the amount of fiber in your diet because this will help the functionality of your digestive system. Twenty-four hours prior to surgery, be sure you adhere to the directions given to you from your hospital or surgical center, including no food or liquid after midnight unless you are allowed to take medication the morning of your surgery with a sip of water. Adhering to this will reduce your chances of vomiting after surgery, which could cause greater pain and discomfort. Take a long and thorough shower, washing with an antibacterial soap. This will help prevent an infection, which could cause additional pain and a longer healing period. Bring several small pillows to the hospital to help make you more comfortable on the ride home afterward.

After surgery

If you had a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, you will most likely spend one night in the hospital before being released. If you had an open cholecystectomy, you will probably be in the hospital for 7 to 8 days. Depending upon the anesthesia used, you may feel nauseated or have an upset stomach. You may also feel bloated, and it will most likely take as much as two weeks for your bathroom habits to return to normal. You may also have a dry or sore throat due to the intubation process during the surgery. You will be given pain medication and encouraged to cough frequently and move around as soon as possible. This helps clear the anesthesia from your lungs and your system in general. When coughing, hold a pillow across your incision area, pressing lightly as you cough, to help relieve pain. To walk or move around, take your time and find the best method for you. Small, slow movements are best. Don't be afraid to take your pain medication as often as prescribed, especially during the first few days when the pain is most severe. Walk as much as the pain will allow to help your system get back to normal. After you are home, you may find it easier to move downstairs temporarily if you have a two-story home. You might be more comfortable for the first week or two in a guest room or even sleeping on a recliner, which alleviates the pain of getting in and out of bed. Continue with your healing program, focusing on the breath work and imagery techniques found at the Center for Health and Healing website. Jot down the times you take your medication so you will know if you can take a pain pill when you need to. Get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids and strictly follow the post-surgery diet you have been given, especially in the first few months following the surgery. Don't do any lifting, driving or strenuous activity until your doctor has cleared you. You will most likely have several follow-up visits with him or her, the first being seven to 10 days after your release from the hospital.

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Preparing For Surgery

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