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Gallbladder surgery is done to treat gallbladder disease. Gallbladder disease is commonly caused by the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder (cholelithiasis). Gallstones can affect different locations.
Obstruction of the cystic duct leading to severe abdominal pain (biliary colic).
Infection or inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis).
Blockage of the biliary ducts leading to the duodenum (biliary obstruction).
In each case, the gallbladder is often removed (cholecystectomy).
Review Date 7/22/2025
Updated by: Todd Eisner, MD, Private practice specializing in Gastroenterology in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Florida at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton. Affiliate Assistant Professor, Florida Atlantic University School of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
