Before gallbladder surgery: what the surgeon needs to know
Gallbladder removal, usually by laparoscopy (laparoscopic cholecystectomy), is done for gallstones that cause pain, infection or jaundice. It is always under general anaesthesia.
The liver function test is the key test here. A raised bilirubin or liver enzymes can mean a stone has slipped into the bile duct, which changes how the surgery is planned.
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthesia |
| Basic tests | Major Surgical Profile, ₹2,500 |
| Report time | 3 hours from sample collection, 24/7 |
| Fasting | Not needed for the profile |
Step 1: the Major Surgical Profile
Almost every surgeon and anaesthetist asks for these basic tests before gallbladder surgery: CBC, ESR, LFT, blood urea, serum creatinine, electrolytes, random blood sugar, PT/INR, BT/CT, HIV, HBsAg, HCV, blood group, TSH, ECG and chest X-ray. We do all of them in one visit for ₹2,500, with the report in 3 hours. See why each test matters.
Step 2: extra tests your surgeon may add
Depending on your age, health and the hospital's protocol, your surgeon may ask for some of these as well. They are not part of the profile and are charged separately.
| Serum amylase or lipase Ask us | If you had severe upper abdominal pain going to the back, to check for pancreatitis caused by a stone. |
| HbA1c ₹600 | If you have diabetes. Gallbladder infection is more serious in people with high sugar. |
| 2D Echo ₹1,200 | In older patients or those with heart disease, before general anaesthesia. |
Points specific to gallbladder surgery
- Bring your ultrasound abdomen report. The surgeon will read it together with the LFT.
- If the LFT shows jaundice, the surgeon may order an MRCP or ERCP before removing the gallbladder.
- Fever with right-sided pain and yellow eyes needs urgent hospital care, not just tests.
Your surgeon and anaesthetist decide the final list. If you have one, send us a photo on WhatsApp and we will do exactly those tests and tell you the total first.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the LFT so important before gallbladder surgery?
Because it shows whether a stone has blocked the bile duct. If bilirubin, ALP or GGT are high, the surgeon may need to clear the duct first or change the operation plan.
Do I need to fast for these tests?
No. The sugar test in this profile is random, so you can eat. But if you are having the surgery the same day, follow your surgeon's fasting instructions.
How fast will I get the report?
In 3 hours from the time we take your sample, at any hour of the day or night, including Sundays and holidays. The report comes on WhatsApp, and you can collect a print at the centre.
How much do the extra tests cost?
The Major Surgical Profile is ₹2,500. Extra tests are added at our standard price, shown in the table on this page. Send us your surgeon's list on WhatsApp and we will tell you the exact total before you come.
Related tests
Medically reviewed by Dr Raheel Raza, MBBS, DCP (Gandhi), Consultant Pathologist.