I just cancelled my gallbladder surgery.

It was a fairly big decision. I read a lot about it, and thought a lot about it. Along the way to a decision, it helped me to use my arm as a visual aide to see where my decision was. I held my right elbow in my left fist. When my arm was vertical, that meant I was totally undecided. If my left arm deviated toward the left, it meant I was leaning toward NOT having the operation, and vice versa. Being a visual sort of guy, this way I actually could see where I was in my thinking.

I realize many people who write on the internet about the pros and cons of gallbladder surgery are in the “con” and “complain” camp. Most likely, the majority of people who either believe in the operation or who are happy with their operation, will not take the time to write on the internet.

With all that in mind, I still decided to cancel my operation. Why? What convinced me? I’ll tell you. Here are some of the things I read.

1. 70 to 80 percent of people with gallstones (which I have) never know they have them. The remaining 20 to 30 percent have their gallbladders removed.

2. One study says that 40 to 50 percent of post-laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients have one or two symptoms that continue, such as abdominal discomfort from excess gas, dull pain or sometimes diarrhea. Another study says that you have a 60 percent chance of being pain free; 40 percent of people still have symptoms. Another study says that 34 percent of people who have their gallbladder removed still experience abdominal pain.

3. A high-fiber, low-fat, no-cholesterol diet can help to prevent, mitigate or delay attacks. I made a food list of DOs and DON’Ts, and ONLY-OCCASIONAL-BITEs.

When I spoke to the scheduling woman today to cancel my operation, she remarked, “You’ll be back.” I really hope she’s wrong. Even if she is right, if I can wait – even several years would be nice – to have that next attack, I can postpone the possible discomfort that an operation could create. And, of course, it’s FUN to think that, with my “diet” I can beat this altogether. I like the expression I read: You can take your gallstones to your grave. Go for it!

Mr. Ebsen may be contacted at robertebsen@hotmail.com.