Impact of Cholecystectomy on Lipid Profile Levels in Patients With Gallstone Disease: A Prospective, Single-Arm, Before-After Study

Background:The gallbladder plays an essential role in lipid homeostasis through bile storage and regulated release. Gallstone disease is frequently associated with dyslipidemia, and cholecystectomy is one of the most common abdominal surgeries worldwide. However, its influence on serum lipid metabolism remains incompletely understood. Objective:To evaluate changes in serum lipid profiles six months after cholecystectomy and assess whether the procedure contributes to improvement of dyslipidemia. Methods:A prospective cohort study was conducted on 40 adult patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstone disease between August 2024 and March 2025. Fasting lipid profiles—including LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and VLDL—were measured preoperatively and at 6-month follow-up. The Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) and total cholesterol/HDL ratio were calculated. Statistical analysis was performed using paired tests with significance set at p < 0.05. Results:Significant reductions were observed in total cholesterol (206.0 ± 37.1 to 194.8 ± 33.7 mg/dL, p = 0.003), LDL-cholesterol (128.7 ± 34.3 to 122.9 ± 31.6 mg/dL, p = 0.002), VLDL (25.2 ± 7.7 to 23.6 ± 7.8 mg/dL, p = 0.031), and the total cholesterol/HDL ratio (p = 0.004). HDL and triglyceride levels showed no significant change. AIP remained stable. Improvements were statistically significant but modest in magnitude. Conclusions:Cholecystectomy was associated with small but significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol six months postoperatively. Although the procedure is not a treatment for dyslipidemia, these findings suggest no adverse impact on lipid metabolism, and possibly a slight beneficial effect. Keywords: cholecystectomy, gallstones, lipid profile, dyslipidemia, LDL, cholesterol, Atherogenic Index of Plasma