Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Cholecystectomy is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, performed most commonly by laparoscopic approach for symptomatic gallstones or acute cholecystitis. The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver. After removal, bile flows continuously from the liver through the common bile duct directly into the duodenum. The nursing role focuses on monitoring vital signs, managing post-operative pain, assessing for complications, maintaining drains, advancing diet, and reporting abnormal findings to the charge nurse or provider.