My Teeth Feel Funny After I Got My Gallbladder Taken Out Whats Going on

This guide will help you get ready for your gallbladder removal surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK). It will also help you understand what to expect during your recovery.

Read through this guide at least once before your surgery and use it as a reference in the days leading up to your surgery.

Bring this guide with you every time you come to MSK, including the day of your surgery. You and your healthcare team will refer to it throughout your care.

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About Your Surgery

Your gallbladder

Your gallbladder is a small, tear-drop shaped organ located under your liver (see Figure 1). Its main function is to store bile. Bile is a substance that is made in the liver and helps your body digest fats. Your gallbladder releases bile when food, especially fatty food, enters the digestive tract. When your gallbladder is removed, your liver will take over this function.

Figure 1. The gallbladder

Gallbladder removal surgery

Cholecystectomy is a surgery that is done to remove your gallbladder. Your gallbladder can be removed in one of two ways—laparoscopically or through an open incision (surgical cut). Your surgeon will speak with you about the best surgery option for you.

Laparoscopic surgery

In a laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery, your surgeon will make 4 very small incisions (see Figure 2). Each one will be about ½ inch long.

Figure 2. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy incisions

One of the incisions will be in or near your navel (belly button). Your surgeon will insert an instrument called a laparoscope through this incision. The laparoscope is a thin tube that has a video camera at the tip. Carbon dioxide gas is blown into your abdomen (belly) so that it expands. This makes room for your surgeon to see your organs and tissues. Other instruments will be inserted through the other incisions to cut your gallbladder. Your gallbladder will then removed through the incision at your navel.

The laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery takes about 1 to 2 hours. Some people are able to go home the day of the surgery.

Open surgery

In about 10% of cases, the gallbladder needs to be removed through a larger incision down the middle of your abdomen. This surgery takes about 2 hours.

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Before Your Surgery

The information in this section will help you get ready for your surgery. Read this section when your surgery is scheduled and refer to it as your surgery date gets closer. It has important information about what you need to do before your surgery.

As you read through this section, write down any questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

Getting ready for your surgery

You and your care team will work together to get ready for your surgery.

Help us keep you safe during your surgery by telling us if any of the following statements apply to you, even if you're not sure.

• I take a blood thinner, such as:
  • Aspirin
  • Heparin
  • Warfarin (Jantoven^® or Coumadin^®)
  • Clopidogrel (Plavix^®)
  • Enoxaparin (Lovenox^®)
  • Dabigatran (Pradaxa^®)
  • Apixaban (Eliquis^®)
  • Rivaroxaban (Xarelto^®)
  There are others, so be sure your healthcare provider knows all the medications you're taking.
• I take prescription medications (medications my healthcare provider prescribes), including patches and creams.
• I take over-the-counter medications (medications I buy without a prescription), including patches and creams.
• I take dietary supplements, such as herbs, vitamins, minerals, or natural or home remedies.
• I have a pacemaker, automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD), or other heart device.
• I have sleep apnea.
• I've had a problem with anesthesia (medication to make me sleep during surgery) in the past.
• I'm allergic to certain medication(s) or materials, including latex.
• I'm not willing to receive a blood transfusion.
• I drink alcohol.
• I smoke or use an electronic smoking device (such as a vape pen, e-cigarette, or Juul^®).
• I use recreational drugs.

About drinking alcohol

The amount of alcohol you drink can affect you during and after your surgery. It's important to talk with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink. This will help us plan your care.

• If you stop drinking alcohol suddenly, it can cause seizures, delirium, and death. If we know you're at risk for these complications, we can prescribe medications to help keep them from happening.
• If you drink alcohol regularly, you may be at risk for other complications during and after your surgery. These include bleeding, infections, heart problems, and a longer hospital stay.

Here are things you can do before your surgery to keep from having problems:

• Be honest with your healthcare providers about how much alcohol you drink.
• Try to stop drinking alcohol once your surgery is planned. If you develop a headache, nausea (feeling like you're going to throw up), increased anxiety, or cannot sleep after you stop drinking, tell your healthcare provider right away. These are early signs of alcohol withdrawal and can be treated.
• Tell your healthcare provider if you cannot stop drinking.
• Ask your healthcare provider questions about drinking and surgery. As always, all of your medical information will be kept confidential.

About smoking

If you smoke, you can have breathing problems when you have surgery. Stopping even for a few days before surgery can help. Your healthcare provider will refer you to our Tobacco Treatment Program if you smoke. You can also reach the program by calling 212-610-0507.

About sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a common breathing disorder that causes you to stop breathing for short periods of time while sleeping. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). With OSA, your airway becomes completely blocked during sleep. OSA can cause serious problems during and after surgery.

Please tell us if you have sleep apnea or if you think you might have it. If you use a breathing device (such as a CPAP device) for sleep apnea, bring it with you the day of your surgery.

Within 30 days of your surgery

Presurgical Testing (PST)

Before your surgery, you'll have an appointment for presurgical testing (PST). The date, time, and location will be printed on the appointment reminder from your surgeon's office. It's helpful to bring the following things to your PST appointment:

• A list of all the medications you're taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, patches, and creams.
• Results of any tests done outside of MSK, such as a cardiac stress test, echocardiogram, or carotid doppler study.
• The name(s) and telephone number(s) of your healthcare provider(s).

You can eat and take your usual medications the day of your appointment.

During your PST appointment, you'll meet with a nurse practitioner (NP). They work closely with anesthesiology staff (specialized healthcare providers who will give you anesthesia during your surgery). Your NP will review your medical and surgical history with you. You may have tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) to check your heart rhythm, a chest x-ray, blood tests, and any other tests needed to plan your care. Your NP may also recommend that you see other healthcare providers.

Your NP will talk with you about which medications you should take the morning of your surgery.

Identify your caregiver

Your caregiver plays an important role in your care. Before your surgery, you and your caregiver will learn about your surgery from your healthcare providers. After your surgery, your caregiver will take you home when you're discharged from the hospital. They'll also help you care for yourself at home.

For caregivers

‌Resources and support are available to help manage the responsibilities that come with caring for a person going through cancer treatment. For support resources and information, visit www.mskcc.org/caregivers or read A Guide for Caregivers.

Complete a Health Care Proxy form

If you have not already filled out a Health Care Proxy form, we recommend you do now. If you've already filled one out or have any other advance directives, bring them to your next appointment.

A health care proxy is a legal document that identifies the person who will speak for you if you cannot communicate for yourself. The person you identify is called your health care agent.

Talk with your healthcare provider if you're interested in completing a health care proxy. You can also read Advance Care Planning and How to Be a Health Care Agent for information about health care proxies, other advance directives, and being a health care agent.

Do breathing and coughing exercises

Practice taking deep breaths and coughing before your surgery. Your healthcare provider will give you an incentive spirometer to help expand your lungs. For more information, read the resource How to Use Your Incentive Spirometer. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.

Follow a healthy diet

Follow a well-balanced, healthy diet before your surgery. If you need help with your diet, talk with your healthcare provider about meeting with a clinical dietitian nutritionist.

Buy a 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) solution antiseptic skin cleanser (such as Hibiclens®)

4% CHG solution is a skin cleanser that kills germs for 24 hours after you use it. Showering with it before your surgery will help lower your risk of infection after surgery. You can buy a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser at your local pharmacy without a prescription.

7 days before your surgery

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for taking aspirin

Aspirin can cause bleeding. If you take aspirin or a medication that contains aspirin, you may need to change your dose or stop taking it 7 days before your surgery. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. Do not stop taking aspirin unless they tell you to.

For more information, read Common Medications Containing Aspirin, Other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), or Vitamin E.

Stop taking vitamin E, multivitamins, herbal remedies, and other dietary supplements

Stop taking vitamin E, multivitamins, herbal remedies, and other dietary supplements 7 days before your surgery. These things can cause bleeding. For more information, read Herbal Remedies and Cancer Treatment.

2 days before your surgery

Stop taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen (Advil^® and Motrin^®) and naproxen (Aleve^®), can cause bleeding. Stop taking them 2 days before your surgery. If your healthcare provider gives you other instructions, follow those instead.

For more information, read Common Medications Containing Aspirin, Other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), or Vitamin E.

1 day before your surgery

Note the time of your surgery

A staff member from the Admitting Office will call you after 2 p.m. the day before your surgery. If your surgery is scheduled for a Monday, they'll call you on the Friday before. If you do not get a call by 7 p.m., call 212-639-5014.

The staff member will tell you what time to arrive at the hospital for your surgery. They'll also remind you where to go.

This will be one of the following locations:

Presurgical Center (PSC) on the 2^nd floor
1275 York Avenue (between East 67^th and East 68^th Streets)
New York, NY 10065
M elevator to 2^nd floor

Presurgical Center (PSC) on the 6^th floor
1275 York Avenue (between East 67^th and East 68^th Streets)
New York, NY 10065
B elevator to 6^th floor

Shower with a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser (such as Hibiclens)

The night before your surgery, shower using a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser.

1. Use your normal shampoo to wash your hair. Rinse your head well.
2. Use your normal soap to wash your face and genital area. Rinse your body well with warm water.
3. Open the 4% CHG solution bottle. Pour some into your hand or a clean washcloth.
4. Move away from the shower stream. Rub the 4% CHG solution gently over your body from your neck to your feet. Do not put it on your face or genital area.
5. Move back into the shower stream to rinse off the 4% CHG solution. Use warm water.
6. Dry yourself off with a clean towel after your shower.
7. Do not put on any lotion, cream, deodorant, makeup, powder, perfume, or cologne after your shower.

Sleep

Go to bed early and get a full night's sleep.

Instructions for eating before your surgery

‌
Do not eat anything after midnight the night before your surgery. This includes hard candy and gum.

The morning of your surgery

Instructions for drinking before your surgery

• If your healthcare provider gave you a CF(Preop)^® drink, finish it 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. Do not drink anything else after midnight the night before your surgery, including water.
• If your healthcare provider did not give you a CF(Preop) drink, you can drink a total of 12 ounces of water between midnight and 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. Do not drink anything else.

Do not drink anything starting 2 hours before your scheduled arrival time. This includes water.

Take your medications as instructed

If your healthcare provider told you to take certain medications the morning of your surgery, take only those medications with a sip of water. Depending on what medications you take, this may be all, some, or none of your usual morning medications.

Shower with a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser (such as Hibiclens)

Shower with a 4% CHG solution antiseptic skin cleanser before you leave for the hospital. Use it the same way you did the night before.

Do not put on any lotion, cream, deodorant, makeup, powder, perfume, or cologne after your shower.

Things to remember

• Wear something comfortable and loose-fitting.
• If you wear contact lenses, wear your glasses instead. -Wearing contact lenses during surgery can damage your eyes.
• Don't wear any metal objects. Remove all jewelry, including body piercings. The equipment used during your surgery can cause burns if it touches metal.
• Don't put on any lotion, cream, deodorant, makeup, powder, perfume, or cologne.
• Leave valuable items (such as credit cards, jewelry, and your checkbook) at home.
• If you're menstruating (have your monthly period), use a sanitary pad, not a tampon. You'll get disposable underwear, as well as a pad if needed.

What to bring

• A pair of loose-fitting pants (such as sweat pants).
• Sneakers that lace up. You may have some swelling in your feet. Lace-up sneakers can fit over this swelling.
• Your breathing device for sleep apnea (such as your CPAP device), if you have one.
• Your incentive spirometer, if you have one.
• Your Health Care Proxy form and other advance directives, if you completed them.
• Your cell phone and charger.
• Only the money you may want for small purchases (such as a newspaper).
• A case for your personal items (such as eyeglasses, hearing aid(s), dentures, prosthetic device(s), wig, and religious articles), if you have one.
• This guide. Your healthcare team will use it to teach you how to care for yourself after surgery.

Where to park

MSK's parking garage is on East 66^th Street between York and 1^st avenues. If you have questions about prices, call 212-639-2338.

To reach the garage, turn onto East 66^th Street from York Avenue. The garage is about a quarter of a block in from York Avenue. It's on the right (north) side of the street. There's a tunnel you can walk through that connects the garage to the hospital.

There are other parking garages located on:

• East 69^th Street between 1^st and 2^nd avenues
• East 67^th Street between York and 1^st avenues
• East 65^th Street between 1^st and 2^nd avenues

Once you're in the hospital

You'll be asked to say and spell your name and birth date many times. This is for your safety. People with the same or a similar name may be having surgery on the same day.

Get dressed for surgery

When it's time to change for surgery, you'll get a hospital gown, robe, and nonskid socks to wear.

Meet with a nurse

You'll meet with a nurse before surgery. Tell them the dose of any medications you took after midnight (including prescription and over-the-counter medications, patches, and creams) and the time you took them.

Your nurse may place an intravenous (IV) line in one of your veins, usually in your arm or hand. If your nurse does not place the IV, your anesthesiologist will do it in the operating room.

Meet with an anesthesiologist

You'll also meet with an anesthesiologist before surgery. They will:

• Review your medical history with you.
• Ask you if you've had any problems with anesthesia in the past, including nausea or pain.
• Talk with you about your comfort and safety during your surgery.
• Talk with you about the kind of anesthesia you'll get.
• Answer your questions about your anesthesia.

Get ready for your surgery

When it's time for your surgery, you'll need to remove your hearing aids, dentures, prosthetic devices, wig, and religious articles, if you have them.

You'll either walk into the operating room or a staff member will bring you there a stretcher. A member of the operating room team will help you onto the operating bed and place compression boots on your lower legs. These gently inflate and deflate to help blood flow in your legs.

Once you're comfortable, your anesthesiologist will give you anesthesia through your IV line and you'll fall asleep. You'll also get fluids through your IV line during and after your surgery.

During your surgery

After you're fully asleep, a breathing tube will be placed through your mouth and into your windpipe to help you breathe. A urinary (Foley) catheter will also be placed to drain urine (pee) from your bladder.

Once your surgery is finished, your incision will be closed with staples or sutures (stitches). You'll also have Steri-Strips^™ (thin pieces of surgical tape) or Dermabond^® (surgical glue) over your incisions. Your incisions may be covered with a bandage. Your breathing tube is usually taken out while you're still in the operating room.

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After Your Surgery

The information in this section will tell you what to expect after your surgery, both during your hospital stay and after you leave the hospital. You'll learn how to safely recover from your surgery.

As you read through this section, write down any questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

What to expect

When you wake up after your surgery, you'll be in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU).

You'll receive oxygen through a thin tube that rests below your nose called a nasal cannula. A nurse will be monitoring your body temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.

You may have a urinary catheter in your bladder to monitor the amount of urine you are making. You'll also have compression boots on your lower legs to help your circulation.

You may have a pain pump called a patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) device. For more information, read Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA). Your pain medication will be given through an IV line.

After your stay in the PACU, you'll be taken to your hospital room. Soon after you arrive in your room, you will be helped out of bed and into a chair.

Your nurse will tell you how to recover from your surgery. Below are examples of ways you can help yourself recover safely.

• You'll be encouraged to walk with the help of your nurse or physical therapist. We will give you medication to relieve pain. Walking helps reduce the risk for blood clots and pneumonia. It also helps to stimulate your bowels so they begin working again.
• Use your incentive spirometer. This will help your lungs expand, which prevents pneumonia. do your breathing and coughing exercises every 1 to 2 hours while you're awake. Your nurse will teach you to splint your incision. This will reduce the movement of your stomach muscles and decrease pain while you do the coughing exercises. For more information, read How to Use Your Incentive Spirometer.

Commonly asked questions: During your hospital stay

Will I have pain after my surgery?

Your doctor and nurse will ask you about your pain often and give you medication as needed. If your pain isn't relieved, tell your doctor or nurse. You'll be given a prescription for pain medication before you leave the hospital.

Pain medication may cause constipation (having fewer bowel movements than what is normal for you).

Why is it important to walk?

Walking will help prevent blood clots in your legs. It also decreases your risk of having other complications such as pneumonia.

Will I be able to eat?

Your doctor will let you know when you can start eating and drinking. This will depend on the time of your surgery and how you are feeling after it. Some people are able to drink small amounts of liquids the evening of the surgery. Most people are able to start eating the day after the surgery. When you are able to eat, you should start slowly and progress to your regular diet as tolerated.

Eating a balanced diet high in protein will help you heal after surgery. Your diet should include a healthy protein source at each meal, as well as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. For more tips on increasing the amount of calories and protein in your diet, ask your nurse for the resource Eating Well During Your Cancer Treatment. If you have questions about your diet, ask to see a dietitian.

How long will I be in the hospital?

If you had a laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery, you'll probably go home within 24 hours. If you had an open gallbladder removal surgery, you'll be in the hospital for 2 to 3 days.

Commonly asked questions: After you go home

What is the Recovery Tracker?

We want to know how you're feeling after you leave the hospital. To help us continue caring for you, we'll send questions to your MyMSK account every day for 10 days after you leave the hospital. These questions are known as your Recovery Tracker.

Fill out your Recovery Tracker every day before midnight (12 a.m.). It only takes 2 to 3 minutes to complete. Your answers to these questions will help us understand how you're feeling and what you need.

Based on your answers, we may reach out to you for more information or ask you to call your surgeon's office. You can always contact your surgeon's office if you have any questions. For more information, read About Your Recovery Tracker .

Will I have pain when I am home?

The length of time each person has pain or discomfort varies. You may still have some pain when you go home and will probably be taking pain medication. Follow the guidelines below.

• Take your medications as directed and as needed.
• Call your doctor if the medication prescribed for you doesn't relieve your pain.
• Don't drive or drink alcohol while you're taking prescription pain medication.
• As your incision heals, you'll have less pain and need less pain medication. A mild pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) or ibuprofen (Advil^®) will relieve aches and discomfort. However, large quantities of acetaminophen may be harmful to your liver. Don't take more acetaminophen than the amount directed on the bottle or as instructed by your doctor or nurse.
• Pain medication should help you as you resume your normal activities. Take enough medication to do your exercises comfortably. Pain medication is most effective 30 to 45 minutes after taking it.
• Keep track of when you take your pain medication. Taking it when your pain first begins is more effective than waiting for the pain to get worse.

Can I shower?

Yes. Taking a warm shower is relaxing and can help decrease muscle aches. Use soap when you shower and gently wash your incision. Pat the areas dry with a towel after showering, and leave your incision uncovered (unless there is drainage). Call your doctor if you see any redness or drainage from your incision.

Don't take tub baths until you discuss it with your doctor at the first appointment after your surgery.

Is it normal not to feel hungry after surgery?

Yes, it's common to have not feel hungry after your surgery, which is also known as having a decreased appetite. Try eating several smaller meals that have each of the food groups (fruits/vegetables, meat/chicken/fish, breads/grains, dairy products). This will help you heal faster.

How can I prevent constipation?

Talk with your healthcare provider about how to prevent and manage constipation. You can also follow the guidelines below.

• Go to the bathroom at the same time every day. Your body will get used to going at that time. But, if you feel like you need to go, don't put it off.
• Try to use the bathroom 5 to 15 minutes after meals. After breakfast is a good time to go. The reflexes in your colon are strongest at this time.
• Exercise, if you can. Walking is an excellent form of exercise.
• Drink 8 (8-ounce) glasses (2 liters) of liquids daily, if you can.
  • Choose liquids such as water, juices (such as prune juice), soups, and ice cream shakes.
  • Avoid liquids with caffeine (such as coffee and soda). Caffeine can pull fluid out of your body.
• Slowly increase the fiber in your diet to 25 to 35 grams per day. If you have an ostomy or have had recent bowel surgery, check with your healthcare provider before making any changes in your diet. Foods high in fiber include:
  • Bran
  • Whole-grain cereals and breads
  • Unpeeled fruits and vegetables
  • Mixed green salads
  • Apricots, figs, and raisins
• Both over-the-counter and prescription medications are available to treat constipation. Check with your healthcare provider before taking any medications for constipation, especially if you have an ostomy or have had bowel surgery. Follow the instructions on the label or from your healthcare provider. Examples of over-the-counter medications for constipation include:
  • Docusate sodium (Colace^®). This is a stool softener (medication that makes your bowel movements softer) that causes few side effects. You can use it to help prevent constipation. Don't take it with mineral oil.
  • Polyethylene glycol (MiraLAX^®). This is a laxative (medication that causes bowel movements) that causes few side effects. Take it with 8 ounces (1 cup) of a liquid. Only take it if you're already constipated.
  • Senna (Senokot^®). This is a stimulant laxative, which can cause cramping. It's best to take it at bedtime. Only take it if you're already constipated.
  If any of these medications cause diarrhea (loose, watery bowel movements), stop taking them. You can start again if needed.
• Call your healthcare provider if you haven't had a bowel movement in 2 days.

Can I drink alcohol after surgery?

Don't drink alcohol while you are taking pain medications.

How do I care for my incision?

The location of your incision will depend on the type of surgery you had. It's normal for the skin below your incision to feel numb, because some of the nerves were cut. The numbness will go away over time.

• By the time you're ready to leave the hospital, your surgical incision will have begun to heal.
• You should look at your incision with your nurse before you leave the hospital so you know what it looks like.
• If any liquid is draining from your incision, you should write down the amount and color. Call your doctor's office and speak with the nurse about any drainage from your incision.

Change your bandages at least once a day and more often if they become wet with drainage. When there is no longer any drainage coming from your incision, they can be left uncovered.

If you go home with Steri-Strips on your incision, they'll loosen and fall off by themselves. If they haven't fallen off within 10 days, you may remove them.

If you go home with glue over your sutures (stitches), it will also loosen and peel off, similarly to the Steri-Strips.

Is it normal to feel tired after surgery?

Yes, feeling tired (fatigue) is an expected side effect. It usually takes 3 weeks until your energy level returns to normal.

Can I resume my activities?

It's important for you to resume your activities after surgery. Spread them out over the course of the day. You can do light household tasks. Try washing dishes, preparing light meals, and other activities as you are able.

You may return to your usual sexual activity as soon as your incisions are well healed and you can do so without pain or fatigue.

Your body is an excellent guide for telling you when you have done too much. When you increase your activity, monitor your body's reaction. You may find that you have more energy in the morning or the afternoon. Plan your activities for times of the day when you have more energy.

When is it safe for me to drive?

You may resume driving 3 weeks after surgery as long as you are not taking pain medication that may make you drowsy.

When can I return to work?

The time it takes to return to work depends on the type of work you do, the type of surgery you had, and how fast your body heals. Most people are able to return to work 1 to 2 weeks after a laparoscopic surgery and 3 to 4 weeks after an open surgery.

What exercises can I do?

Exercise will help you gain strength and feel better. Walking and stair climbing are excellent forms of exercise. Gradually increase the distance you walk. Climb stairs slowly, resting or stopping as needed. Ask your doctor or nurse before starting more strenuous exercises.

When can I lift heavy objects?

Check with your doctor before you do any heavy lifting. Normally, you should not lift anything heavier than 5 pounds (2.3 kilograms) for at least 6 weeks. Ask your doctor how long you should avoid heavy lifting.

How can I cope with my feelings?

After surgery for a serious illness, you may have new and upsetting feelings. Many people say they felt weepy, sad, worried, nervous, irritable, and angry at one time or another. You may find that you can't control some of these feelings. If this happens, it's a good idea to seek emotional support.

The first step in coping is to talk about how you feel. Family and friends can help. Your nurse, doctor, and social worker can reassure, support, and guide you. It's always a good idea to let these professionals know how you, your family, and your friends are feeling emotionally. Many resources are available to patients and their families. Whether you're in the hospital or at home, the nurses, doctors, and social workers are here to help you and your family and friends handle the emotional aspects of your illness.

When is my first appointment after my surgery?

Your first appointment after surgery will be in 1 to 3 weeks after you leave the hospital. Your nurse will give you instructions on how to make this appointment, including the phone number to call. During this appointment, your doctor will discuss the pathology results with you in detail.

What if I have other questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, please talk with your doctor or nurse. You can reach them Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

After 5:00 p.m., during the weekend, and on holidays, call 212-639-2000 and ask for the doctor on call for your doctor.

When to contact your healthcare provider

Contact your healthcare provider if you have:

• A fever of 101° F (38.3° C) or higher
• Pain that doesn't get better with your medications
• Discharge from your incision that is bad-smelling or looks like pus
• Increased redness around your incision
• New or increased swelling around your incision
• Any new symptom or physical change

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Support Services

This section has a list of support services that may help you get ready for your surgery and recover safely.

As you read through this section, write down any questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

MSK support services

Visit the Cancer Types section of www.mskcc.org for more information.

Admitting Office
212-639-7606
Call if you have questions about your hospital admission, including requesting a private room.

Anesthesia
212-639-6840
Call if you have questions about anesthesia.

Blood Donor Room
212-639-7643
Call for information if you're interested in donating blood or platelets.

Bobst International Center
888-675-7722
MSK welcomes patients from around the world. If you're an international patient, call for help arranging your care.

Counseling Center
646-888-0200
Many people find that counseling helps them. We provide counseling for individuals, couples, families, and groups, as well as medications to help if you feel anxious or depressed. To make an appointment, ask your healthcare provider for a referral or call the number above.

Female Sexual Medicine and Women's Health Program
646-888-5076
Cancer and cancer treatments can have an impact on your sexual health. Our Female Sexual Medicine and Women's Health Program can help if you're dealing with cancer-related sexual health challenges such as premature menopause or fertility issues. Call for more information or to make an appointment. We can help you take action and address sexual health issues before, during, or after your treatment.

Food Pantry Program
646-888-8055
The food pantry program provides food to people in need during their cancer treatment. For more information, talk with your healthcare provider or call the number above.

Integrative Medicine Service
www.mskcc.org/integrativemedicine
Our Integrative Medicine Service offers many services to complement (go along with) traditional medical care, including music therapy, mind/body therapies, dance and movement therapy, yoga, and touch therapy. To schedule an appointment for these services, call 646-449-1010.

You can also schedule a consultation with a healthcare provider in the Integrative Medicine Service. They will work with you to come up with a plan for creating a healthy lifestyle and managing side effects. To make an appointment, call 646-608-8550.

Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program
646-888-6024
Cancer and cancer treatments can have an impact on your sexual health. Our Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program can help if you're dealing with cancer-related sexual health challenges such as erectile dysfunction (ED). Call for information or to make an appointment. We can help you take action and address sexual health issues before, during, or after your treatment.

MSK Library
library.mskcc.org
212-639-7439
You can visit our library website or speak with the library reference staff to find more information about your specific cancer type. You can also visit LibGuides on MSK's library website at libguides.mskcc.org

Patient and Caregiver Education
www.mskcc.org/pe
Visit the Patient and Caregiver Education website to search our virtual library. There you can find written educational resources, videos, and online programs.

Patient and Caregiver Peer Support Program
212-639-5007
You may find it comforting to speak with someone who has been through a treatment like yours. You can talk with a former MSK patient or caregiver through our Patient and Caregiver Peer Support Program. These conversations are confidential. They may take place in person or over the phone.

Patient Billing
646-227-3378
Call if you have questions about preauthorization with your insurance company. This is also called preapproval.

Patient Representative Office
212-639-7202
Call if you have questions about the Health Care Proxy form or if you have concerns about your care.

Perioperative Nurse Liaison
212-639-5935
Call if you have questions about MSK releasing any information while you're having surgery.

Private Duty Nurses and Companions
917-862-6373
You can request private nurses or companions to care for you in the hospital and at home. Call for more information.

Resources for Life After Cancer (RLAC) Program
646-888-8106
At MSK, care doesn't end after active treatment. The RLAC Program is for patients and their families who have finished treatment. This program has many services, including seminars, workshops, support groups, counseling on life after treatment, and help with insurance and employment issues.

Social Work
212-639-7020
Social workers help patients, family, and friends deal with issues that are common for cancer patients. They provide individual counseling and support groups throughout the course of treatment and can help you communicate with children and other family members. Our social workers can also help refer you to community agencies and programs, as well as financial resources if you're eligible.

Spiritual Care
212-639-5982
Our chaplains (spiritual counselors) are available to listen, help support family members, pray, contact community clergy or faith groups, or simply be a comforting companion and a spiritual presence. Anyone can request spiritual support, regardless of formal religious affiliation. MSK's interfaith chapel is located near Memorial Hospital's main lobby. It's open 24 hours a day. If you have an emergency, call 212-639-2000. Ask for the chaplain on call.

Tobacco Treatment Program
212-610-0507
If you want to quit smoking, MSK has specialists who can help. Call for information.

Virtual Programs
www.mskcc.org/vp
MSK's Virtual Programs offer online education and support for patients and caregivers, even when you can't come to MSK in person. Through live, interactive sessions, you can learn about your diagnosis, what to expect during treatment, and how to prepare for the various stages of your cancer care. Sessions are confidential, free, and led by expert clinical staff. If you're interested in joining a Virtual Program, visit our website at www.mskcc.org/vp for more information.

External support services

Access-A-Ride
web.mta.info/nyct/paratran/guide.htm
877-337-2017
In New York City, the MTA offers a shared ride, door-to-door service for people with disabilities who can't take the public bus or subway.

Air Charity Network
www.aircharitynetwork.org
877-621-7177
Provides travel to treatment centers.

American Cancer Society (ACS)
www.cancer.org
800-ACS-2345 (800-227-2345)
Offers a variety of information and services, including Hope Lodge, a free place for patients and caregivers to stay during cancer treatment.

Cancer and Careers
www.cancerandcareers.org
A resource for education, tools, and events for employees with cancer.

CancerCare
www.cancercare.org
800-813-4673
275 Seventh Avenue (Between West 25^th & 26^th Streets)
New York, NY 10001
Provides counseling, support groups, educational workshops, publications, and financial assistance.

Cancer Support Community
www.cancersupportcommunity.org
Provides support and education to people affected by cancer.

Caregiver Action Network
www.caregiveraction.org
800-896-3650
Provides education and support for people who care for loved ones with a chronic illness or disability.

Corporate Angel Network
www.corpangelnetwork.org
866-328-1313
Offers free travel to treatment across the country using empty seats on corporate jets.

Gilda's Club
www.gildasclubnyc.org
212-647-9700
A place where men, women, and children living with cancer find social and emotional support through networking, workshops, lectures, and social activities.

Good Days
www.mygooddays.org
877-968-7233
Offers financial assistance to pay for copayments during treatment. Patients must have medical insurance, meet the income criteria, and be prescribed medication that's part of the Good Days formulary.

Healthwell Foundation
www.healthwellfoundation.org
800-675-8416
Provides financial assistance to cover copayments, health care premiums, and deductibles for certain medications and therapies.

Joe's House
www.joeshouse.org
877-563-7468
Provides a list of places to stay near treatment centers for people with cancer and their families.

LGBT Cancer Project
http://lgbtcancer.com/
Provides support and advocacy for the LGBT community, including online support groups and a database of LGBT-friendly clinical trials.

LIVESTRONG Fertility
www.livestrong.org/we-can-help/fertility-services
855-744-7777
Provides reproductive information and support to cancer patients and survivors whose medical treatments have risks associated with infertility.

Look Good Feel Better Program
www.lookgoodfeelbetter.org
800-395-LOOK (800-395-5665)
This program offers workshops to learn things you can do to help you feel better about your appearance. For more information or to sign up for a workshop, call the number above or visit the program's website.

National Cancer Institute
www.cancer.gov
800-4-CANCER (800-422-6237)

National Cancer Legal Services Network
www.nclsn.org
Free cancer legal advocacy program.

National LGBT Cancer Network
www.cancer-network.org
Provides education, training, and advocacy for LGBT cancer survivors and those at risk.

Needy Meds
www.needymeds.org
Lists Patient Assistance Programs for brand and generic name medications.

NYRx
www.nyrxplan.com
Provides prescription benefits to eligible employees and retirees of public sector employers in New York State.

Partnership for Prescription Assistance
www.pparx.org
888-477-2669
Helps qualifying patients without prescription drug coverage get free or low-cost medications.

Patient Access Network Foundation
www.panfoundation.org
866-316-7263
Provides assistance with copayments for patients with insurance.

Patient Advocate Foundation
www.patientadvocate.org
800-532-5274
Provides access to care, financial assistance, insurance assistance, job retention assistance, and access to the national underinsured resource directory.

RxHope
www.rxhope.com
877-267-0517
Provides assistance to help people get medications that they have trouble affording.

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Educational Resources

This section has the educational resources mentioned in this guide. They will help you get ready for your surgery and recover safely after surgery.

As you read through these resources, write down any questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

• Common Medications Containing Aspirin, Other Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), or Vitamin E
• Herbal Remedies and Cancer Treatment
• How to Use Your Incentive Spirometer
• Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)
• What You Can Do to Avoid Falling
• About Your Recovery Tracker

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Source: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/about-your-gallbladder-removal-surgery

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