1.What is laparoscopic cholecystectomy? Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is an operation to remove the gallbladder with a minimally invasive approach. 2.How is it performed? Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is performed using general anesthesia. Carbon dioxide is used to inflate the abdominal cavity during the procedure to provide space for the surgery. A small incision is made through the belly button and the laparoscope is inserted. Three additional small holes are made in the abdomen to insert other surgical instruments. The position of the gallbladder is determined and the cystic duct and the cystic artery are clamped. The gallbladder is removed and moved out of the body and the incision is closed. Sometimes X-rays (cholangiography) are performed on the operating table in order to look for stones or other abnormalities of the common bile duct. 3. Why is this surgery done? Cholecystectomy is usually done to treat the following conditions: gallbladder diseases such as stones, infections and gallbladder polyps. Laparoscopic surgery has the advantages of reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stay and better cosmetic results than open surgery. 4. Risks and complications Risks and complications associated with anesthesia may occur, including respiratory or cardiac abnormalities. Other complications include: injury to the common bile duct, blood vessels or other abdominal organs; mild shoulder pain (due to carbon dioxide gas irritation of the diaphragm); postoperative bleeding; and infection. The risks can be reduced by following the surgeon’s medical advice before and after surgery. 5. Other surgical procedures Open surgery (laparotomy) may be required for: patients with bleeding, patients with anatomical abnormalities; patients with acute infections or patients with poorly visualized surgical views due to previous surgery or scars.