Our Summary

This research paper discusses a rare condition where a person is born with two gallbladders. In this particular case, they talk about a patient with this condition who had gallstones and needed their gallbladder removed. The surgery was done using a robot, which proved to be a viable method. The paper emphasizes the need for surgeons to be mindful of the possibility of this rare condition when they are performing gallbladder removal surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What is a duplicated gallbladder?
  2. What is a robotic cholecystectomy and how is it used for patients with a duplicated gallbladder?
  3. Why is it important for surgeons performing cholecystectomies to be aware of duplicated gallbladders?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cholecystectomy is to follow a low-fat diet after the surgery to help prevent digestive issues and promote healing. It is important to gradually reintroduce fatty foods into your diet and listen to your body’s response. Additionally, staying hydrated and incorporating fiber-rich foods can also aid in digestion post-cholecystectomy. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized dietary recommendations.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended cholecystectomy include those with symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), gallbladder polyps, gallbladder cancer, and other gallbladder conditions that are causing significant symptoms or complications. In the case of a duplicated gallbladder with symptomatic gallstones, as described in the abstract, robotic cholecystectomy may be a feasible option for surgical treatment. Surgeons performing cholecystectomies should be aware of the possibility of duplicated gallbladders and consider appropriate surgical approaches for such patients.

Timeline

Before cholecystectomy:

  • Patient may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloating due to gallstones in the duplicated gallbladder
  • Patient may undergo imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to diagnose the duplicated gallbladder and gallstones
  • Patient may be recommended cholecystectomy as the treatment option for symptomatic gallstones in the duplicated gallbladder

After cholecystectomy:

  • Patient undergoes robotic cholecystectomy procedure to remove the duplicated gallbladder with symptomatic gallstones
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort in the abdomen post-surgery, which can be managed with pain medications
  • Patient is advised to follow a specific diet post-surgery to aid in recovery and prevent complications
  • Patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few days for monitoring and recovery
  • Patient is typically able to resume normal activities within a few weeks after the surgery, with follow-up appointments scheduled to monitor recovery and ensure no complications arise.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Can you explain to me what a duplicated gallbladder is and how it may impact my cholecystectomy surgery?
  2. What are the symptoms of symptomatic gallstones in a duplicated gallbladder?
  3. Why do you recommend robotic cholecystectomy for my duplicated gallbladder?
  4. What are the potential risks and complications associated with robotic cholecystectomy for a duplicated gallbladder?
  5. How long is the recovery time expected to be after robotic cholecystectomy for a duplicated gallbladder?
  6. Will I need any additional follow-up or monitoring after the surgery due to my duplicated gallbladder?
  7. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make after robotic cholecystectomy for a duplicated gallbladder?
  8. How common is a duplicated gallbladder and what experience do you have in performing robotic cholecystectomy for this condition?
  9. Are there any alternative treatment options for my duplicated gallbladder and symptomatic gallstones other than robotic cholecystectomy?
  10. How will my quality of life be impacted after robotic cholecystectomy for a duplicated gallbladder?

Reference

Authors: Fung AK, Fai Lee K, Cn Chong C, Lai PB. Journal: Scott Med J. 2019 Aug;64(3):112-115. doi: 10.1177/0036933019853161. Epub 2019 May 29. PMID: 31142212