Gallbladder Surgery in the 21st Century: Robotic Surgery and the Green Light for Safety

Gallbladder removal is now one of the safest and most common surgical procedures worldwide. This is not only due to the vast experience of surgeons, but also to the incredible technological advances that have occurred in recent decades. Today, modern tools and examination methods are available that we never dreamed of before.

You would be surprised how much the seemingly “simple” gallbladder surgery has evolved! These advanced technologies play a huge role in making the procedure as safe as possible and minimizing the risk of complications.

A New Era in Surgery: The Power of Robotic Assisted Technology

Imagine a surgical procedure where the surgeon's hand never shakes and he sees even the smallest details in multiple magnifications, in three dimensions. This is robotic surgery, which has brought a new level of precision and finesse. Although gallbladder removal is often performed using the traditional laparoscopic method, the experience gained in robotic surgery (the ability to manual dexterity and accurate tissue recognition) can be directly utilized during laparoscopic surgeries as well.

There are three main benefits of robotic surgery training that will ensure your safety:

1. Incredibly smooth and stable movements:

• • When using the robotic console, the surgeon learns extremely precise movements.
  • It works at high magnification.(hímnemű)
  • The system completely filters out hand tremors.
  • This precision is also evident in “traditional” laparoscopic surgeries, especially in complicated, inflamed, or previously scarred cases.

1. 3D, high-resolution image and outstanding recognition of anatomy:

• • The camera system used in robotic surgery provides a realistic, high-magnification 3D image, which makes tissue identification much faster and safer.
  • This type of "vision" is also a huge advantage in laparoscopic surgery: the sharper and more detailed the surgeon can see, the safer the surgery.

1. ICG Fluorescence Imaging: Green Light for Safety

• • ICG (Indocyanine Green) fluorescence is a special technology that allows for real-time, “green light” highlighting of the bile ducts.
  • This means that the main bile duct, the duct that exits the gallbladder, and the surrounding blood vessels are outlined in green on the monitor, allowing the surgeon to see critical structures with pinpoint accuracy.
  • Why is this so important? Misidentification of the bile duct can be one of the most feared complications of gallbladder removal. The use of ICG technology significantly reduces the chance of this, giving you extra security.

Modern laparoscopy: Gentle, fast and precise healing

In addition to robotic technology, laparoscopic surgery itself has also undergone tremendous development. At Szent Magdolna Private Hospital, all gallbladder surgeries are now performed using a minimally invasive technique, i.e., “keyhole” surgery.

A modern laparoszkópia fő előnyei az Ön számára:

• Only 3-4 small incisions are required.
• Quick recovery – you can usually go home after 1-2 days.
• Less pain after surgery.
• Beautiful, aesthetic wound healing.
• Less risk of infection.

This gentle technique allows for a safer and more comfortable recovery than ever before.

Low-pressure pneumoperitoneum: Comfort during and after surgery

During laparoscopic surgery, the abdominal cavity is filled with carbon dioxide to give the surgeon enough space to work. Previously, higher pressures were used, which could cause shoulder pain and abdominal distension after surgery.

The modern approach uses the principle of Low Pressure – low pressure pneumoperitoneum (6-10 mmHg).

The advantages of this are:

• Less pain after surgery.
• Faster recovery and mobility.
• Less strain on the entire body.

This technique makes the postoperative period particularly comfortable.

Selective Drainage – Less is Sometimes More

In the past, a drain (a small tube that drains away wound fluid) was inserted after almost every gallbladder surgery. However, modern protocols now only recommend it when absolutely necessary.

Why the drain?

• It can increase the pain.
• It may delay your quick return home.
• It is often unnecessary.

Dr. Dániel Wettstein only uses drains in special cases when they actually contribute to the patient's safety and faster recovery.

Difficult cases? Robotic surgery background helps!

There are some patients for whom gallbladder surgery may be technically more difficult. For example, in cases of severe inflammation, scarring from previous abdominal surgeries, or unique anatomical differences.

In these cases, the advantage of a surgeon with robotic surgery or specialized hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgery (HPB) training is invaluable. In these cases, special techniques such as partial gallbladder removal (subtotal cholecystectomy) or other safety measures are often required.

With the right expertise and advanced technology, even these complex cases can be resolved laparoscopically, avoiding major, open abdominal surgery and a longer recovery.

Where are modern gallbladder surgeries performed?

• Consultations and minor procedures: In the modern office of Villa Medicina, where Dr. Dániel Wettstein will personally welcome you. This is where the pre-operative discussion, examination and all preparations take place.
• Robotic and laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries: In the high-tech operating room of the Saint Magdalene Private Hospital, where the most modern equipment and trained staff ensure the success of the procedure.

This way, you will simultaneously receive personalized attention and communication at Villa Medicina, as well as maximum safety supported by modern operating room facilities at Szent Magdolna Private Hospital.

In collaboration with Villa Medicina and Szent Magdolna Private Hospital, Dr. Dániel Wettstein provides care that combines the precision of major surgery with the attention and care of a luxury private practice.