ROSH Gastrointestinal Practice Exam

Following a cholecystectomy, what complication is often associated with gallbladder removal?

1. Biliary colic

2. Chronic diarrhea

3. Gallstones

4. Gallbladder cancer

The correct answer is: Chronic diarrhea

After a cholecystectomy, which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder, chronic diarrhea can occur in some patients. This condition, often referred to as postcholecystectomy syndrome, can result from changes in bile flow and absorption after the gallbladder, which normally stores bile, has been removed. Without the gallbladder, bile is released continuously into the intestine, which can lead to fat malabsorption and potentially result in diarrhea. The other options are not typically associated complications directly resulting from gallbladder removal. Biliary colic usually occurs due to gallstones obstructing the bile ducts rather than after a cholecystectomy. Chronic diarrhea, while it can develop post-surgery, is less common. Gallstones can still form in the bile ducts after the gallbladder is removed, but this isn't a primary complication of the procedure itself. Gallbladder cancer is a distinct condition that is independent of the surgery performed and is not a complication associated with cholecystectomy.