What is the surgical procedure for the removal of the gallbladder called?

• A. Appendectomy
• B. Cholecystectomy
• C. Hysterectomy
• D. Abdominoplasty

Answer: (B)

The surgical procedure for the removal of the gallbladder is known as cholecystectomy. This procedure is performed when the gallbladder, which stores bile produced by the liver, becomes diseased or problematic, often due to the formation of gallstones that can cause pain or other complications.

Cholecystectomy can be performed using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. The laparoscopic approach is more common today as it typically involves smaller incisions, which can lead to shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain.

Understanding the role of the gallbladder and the context in which surgery is necessary helps clarify why this particular procedure is vital for treating various gallbladder-related disorders. The other procedures listed serve different medical purposes: an appendectomy involves the removal of the appendix, a hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus, and an abdominoplasty refers to cosmetic surgery for abdominal contouring.