Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, also known as lap chole, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. The procedure is performed using a laparoscope, which is a long, thin tube with a camera and light on the end. The laparoscope is inserted through small incisions in the abdomen, allowing the surgeon to view the inside of the abdomen on a monitor. The gallbladder is then removed through one of the small incisions. This procedure is done under general anesthesia, and it is performed to relieve the symptoms caused by gallstones such as severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Recovery time is relatively short and most people are able to return to normal activities within a week or two. In some cases, patients may experience mild discomfort or pain in the incision site, but this can be managed with pain medication.