Understanding quality of life after gallbladder removal

Health Related Quality of Life and Abdominal Symptoms After Cholecystectomy

Observational Helsinki University Central Hospital · NCT03326154

This study looks at why some people don’t feel better after having their gallbladder removed and what factors might be affecting their quality of life.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorHelsinki University Central Hospital Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Espoo and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03326154 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the factors that contribute to a lack of improvement in gastrointestinal quality of life following elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in patients with symptomatic gallstones. By analyzing patient-reported outcomes and various demographic and clinical factors, the study aims to identify why some patients do not experience the expected benefits after surgery. The research will involve collecting data through questionnaires from eligible participants who have undergone the procedure.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are patients who have undergone laparoscopic cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstones.

Not a fit: Patients with previous complications from gallstone disease or those undergoing cholecystectomy for non-symptomatic reasons may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify patients at risk of poor quality of life outcomes after gallbladder surgery, leading to improved preoperative counseling and management.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on quality of life post-cholecystectomy, this specific observational approach focusing on factors affecting quality of life outcomes is less common, making it a novel investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients
* indication for operation symptomatic gallstones

Exclusion Criteria:

* previous complication of gallstone disease
* indication for cholecystectomy other than symptomatic gallstones
* illness significantly lowering quality of life
* inability to fill in questionnaires
* denies participation

Where this trial is running

Espoo and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Gallstonecholecystectomyquality of life
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.