For decades, gallstones have affected millions of people worldwide, with studies indicating that nearly 80% of those experiencing symptoms like upper right abdominal pain, especially at night between 11 pm and 5 am with nausea and bloating, require immediate surgical intervention to relieve discomfort and prevent serious complications. However, advancements in medical technology have shifted the focus toward minimally invasive procedures, offering patients safer and more efficient treatment options. One such breakthrough is 3D laparoscopic cholecystectomy only at MASSH, a revolutionary technique in gallstone removal. This cutting-edge procedure has become an indispensable tool for surgeons, ensuring precision,  short operating time, reduced recovery time, same-day discharge and enhanced patient outcomes.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• The Rise of 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
• The Decision-Making Process
• What Happens During 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
• Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy vs. 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
• Conclusion
• Disclaimer

The Rise of 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

In recent years, patients have increasingly turned to laparoscopic cholecystectomy as a treatment for gall bladder stones, especially in MASSH 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy as a viable alternative over traditional open/laparoscopic surgery. This innovative procedure utilizes advanced 3D visualization technology to enable our surgeons to perform gallbladder removal with unprecedented precision and accuracy. 

Minimizing operative time ensures speedy recovery and daycare surgery. 3D laparoscopic cholecystectomy has revolutionized the treatment of gallstones, offering patients a faster, less invasive, and more comfortable solution.

Is 3D Laparoscopic cholecystectomy a major surgery?

3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is considered a minimally invasive surgery, but it still qualifies as a major surgical procedure under general anesthesia because it involves the removal of an organ, the gallbladder. However, compared to traditional open cholecystectomy, it is far less invasive, resulting in keyhole incisions, quicker recovery, and fewer complications.

Is 3D laparoscopy superior to conventional laparoscopy?

3D laparoscopy is generally considered superior to conventional laparoscopy, as it provides significantly better depth perception due to its 3D imaging, leading to potentially faster operative times, less blood loss, and improved surgical precision, especially for complex procedures where accurate anatomical identification is crucial.

The Decision-Making Process

The decision to undergo 3D laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery ultimately depends on a range of factors, including:

• Severe and persistent abdominal pain: If you experience sharp, intense pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the stomach that lasts for hours, it may indicate gallbladder disease. The pain can radiate to the back or right shoulder and often worsens after eating fatty foods.
• Frequent Nausea and Vomiting: Chronic nausea and repeated vomiting, especially after meals, could signal gallstones blocking the bile ducts. If digestive discomfort persists despite dietary changes or medications, surgical intervention may be necessary.
• Jaundice (Yellowing of Skin & Eyes): Yellowing of the skin and eyes, along with dark urine and pale stools, suggests bile duct obstruction. This condition requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to serious complications.
• Fever and Chills: A high fever, chills, and sweating may indicate gallbladder infection (cholecystitis). If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to severe complications such as sepsis or gallbladder rupture.
• Bloating and Indigestion: Persistent bloating, gas, and a feeling of fullness even after small meals may suggest gallbladder dysfunction. If you struggle with chronic indigestion and discomfort, it could be a sign of gallstones obstructing digestion.
• Sudden worsening of symptoms: If gallbladder attacks become more frequent and severe, with pain lasting longer and increasing in intensity, medical attention is crucial. Symptoms that do not respond to medications or home remedies may indicate the need for surgical removal.
• Risk of Complications: Gallstones can lead to serious conditions like cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation), infections, or blockages in the bile ducts. In some cases, this may cause jaundice or pancreatitis, which can be life-threatening if left untreated. Surgery is recommended to prevent such complications from escalating.
• Risk of Cancer:  While rare, long-standing gallstones and chronic gallbladder inflammation can increase the risk of gallbladder cancer. Delayed treatment may lead to malignant changes, making early diagnosis and surgical intervention crucial for preventing severe health outcomes.
• Overall Health Condition: A patient's medical history plays a significant role in determining surgical suitability. Those with heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems need careful assessment before undergoing surgery. Additionally, the ability to tolerate general anesthesia is a key consideration.
• Effectiveness of Non-Surgical Treatment: For some individuals, lifestyle changes and medications may help manage symptoms for a while; however, gallstones need to be treated only by surgery. Non-surgical treatments may delay the surgery and cause more complications. Many people confuse ESWL as a treatment for all bladder stones, but it is primarily used for kidney stones.

What Happens During 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?

3D laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a state-of-the-art, minimally invasive procedure designed to remove the gallbladder with exceptional precision and minimal trauma. The use of advanced 3D visualization technology provides surgeons with a highly detailed 3D depth-enhanced view of the surgical area, improving accuracy and patient outcomes. The procedure follows a well-structured process, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Preparation

• Before the surgery begins, the patient is placed under general anesthesia, ensuring they remain unconscious and pain-free throughout the procedure. The surgical team carefully positions the patient and sterilizes the abdominal area to minimize the risk of infection.

Procedure

• Small keyhole incisions, usually three to four, are made in the abdomen to create access points for the surgical instruments.
• A 3D laparoscope, a high-definition camera that provides a detailed three-dimensional view, is inserted through one of the incisions. This allows the surgeon to navigate the area with enhanced depth perception.
• Specialized laparoscopic instruments are introduced through the other incisions to carefully dissect and detach the gallbladder from the liver and bile ducts.
• Once the gallbladder and stones or affected tissue are removed, the surgical site is inspected to ensure no remaining obstructions or complications.

Closure & Recovery

• The small incisions are then closed using dissolvable sutures or surgical glue, leaving minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.
• The entire procedure typically lasts between 20 and 30 minutes in 3D laparoscopy, depending on the complexity. However, in conventional laparoscopic surgery, it will take 1 to 2 hours. 
• Due to the advanced technique of 3D laparoscopic cholecystectomy, most patients experience a faster recovery and significantly less postoperative discomfort.
• Many individuals can resume daily activities within 24 hours and fully recover within one week. Patients are encouraged to follow a normal diet and home-cooked meals from the very next day; having a bath, climbing stairs, and going for walks in the park is now advised to all patients undergoing 3D laparoscopic gallbladder removal.

Conventional Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy vs. 3D Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Conclusion

Gallstones can cause significant discomfort and complications if ignored. Modern advancements in minimal access surgery ensure effective treatment with minimal inconvenience. Whether you’re dealing with severe pain or recurrent symptoms, opting for a short-stay gallbladder surgery can help you regain your health and quality of life.

However, as with any surgical procedure, it's crucial to undergo a thorough evaluation to determine if gallbladder stone surgery is the right option based on individual health conditions. Consult our experienced surgical team ensures that you are well-informed and prepared for the procedure and recovery process. 

At MASSH Hospital, we are dedicated to providing the best care through advanced 3D surgical techniques, ensuring your safety and well-being at every step of the journey.