Common Complications After Gallbladder Surgery

Common Complications After Gallbladder Surgery

 Each year in the United States, approximately 500,000-600,000 gallbladder surgeries are performed.  Laparoscopic surgery has been the technique of choice for removal of the gallbladder since it was introduced in 1989. 

However, according to an article published in the journal Surgical Endoscopy, major complications can occur following gallbladder surgery.  The article analyzed 114,005 gallbladder surgeries.  Some complications that can occur are hemorrhage, wound infection, needle injuries, and bile duct injury and leakage.  Among these complications, bowel injuries, bile duct injuries, and leaks are the most common.  The author found that the incidence of bile duct injuries and leaks was higher in laparoscopic than in open gallbladder surgeries.