Gallbladder Inflammation: How Many Days of Hospital Stay Are Typically Required?

Gallbladder inflammation usually requires a hospital stay of 3 to 5 days. When the condition flares up, patients typically experience sudden pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Some individuals may be experiencing their first episode, while others may have had repeated flare-ups. In such cases, an ultrasound often reveals gallstones or large gallbladder polyps. Doctors typically recommend hospitalization for gallbladder removal to prevent recurring symptoms and avoid future hospital visits.

The most effective treatment for gallbladder inflammation is surgical removal of the gallbladder. Over 95% of these procedures are performed using laparoscopic surgery, which is minimally invasive and generally takes between 10 to 20 minutes. The recovery time is relatively quick, with most patients able to resume light daily activities the day after surgery and being discharged by the third day.

After discharge, patients are advised to follow a semi-liquid diet, such as rice porridge or noodles, to ease digestion. By the fourth or fifth day post-surgery, most individuals report feeling close to their normal pre-illness condition. Some patients may experience temporary side effects like diarrhea, but these usually resolve with proper dietary adjustments and time. This rapid recovery highlights the effectiveness of modern surgical techniques in treating gallbladder disease.

Minimally invasive procedures contribute to faster healing and less discomfort. Unlike traditional open surgery, laparoscopic gallbladder removal leaves smaller scars, reduces pain, and allows patients to return to normal life more quickly. This makes it the preferred method for treating acute and chronic gallbladder inflammation.

In summary, while the typical hospital stay is around 3 to 5 days, individual recovery times may vary based on overall health and how the body responds to the procedure. Following post-operative care instructions closely can help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.