Open Gallbladder Surgery for Gallstones

Several Reference conditions may lead to surgery to remove the gallbladder. Conditions that may require open rather than laparoscopic surgery include:

• Severe inflammation of the bile duct or gallbladder.
• Inflammation of the abdominal lining (Reference peritonitis Opens New Window).
• High pressure in blood vessels in the liver (Reference portal hypertension Opens New Window). This is caused by Reference cirrhosis Opens New Window of the liver.
• Being in the third trimester of pregnancy.
• A major bleeding disorder or use of medicines to prevent blood clotting (blood thinners or anticoagulants).
• Scar tissue from many previous abdominal surgeries.
• Abnormal anatomy in the abdomen.

In 5 to 10 out of 100 laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries in the United States, the surgeon needs to switch to an open surgical method that requires a larger incision.^{Reference 1} Examples of problems that can require open rather than laparoscopic surgery include unexpected inflammation, scar tissue, injury, or bleeding.

© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.