The short answer
People with sickle cell disease can have operations safely, but only with planning: a haematologist should be involved, a blood transfusion is often advised before the operation, and you need to stay warm, well hydrated and well oxygenated with good pain relief throughout. Operations are planned when you are well, not during or just after a crisis. If you carry the trait (AS), you usually need no special treatment, but tell the anaesthetist.
Book gallbladder removal, from ₦750,000Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Why surgery needs extra care with sickle cell
Surgery and anaesthesia can bring on the things that trigger sickling: dehydration from fasting, cold in theatre, low oxygen, pain and stress. That can lead to a painful crisis or to acute chest syndrome, a serious lung complication. With a plan in place, these risks can be reduced a great deal.
People with sickle cell disease often need operations: gallbladder removal for gallstones, which are common in sickle cell; hip replacement when the hip bone has been damaged; tonsillectomy in children with large tonsils and snoring; and the same operations as anyone else.
Before the operation
Tell the surgeon your genotype at the first appointment. Your haematologist and anaesthetist should plan together. Have the operation when you have been well for some time, not in the weeks after a crisis or chest infection.
- A blood count and a test of how much sickle haemoglobin you have
- A blood transfusion before many operations, to lower the risk of a crisis. Your haematologist decides whether you need it and what kind
- Blood group and antibody checks early, because people who have had many transfusions can be harder to match
- A drip to keep you hydrated during fasting, instead of going many hours with nothing
- Treat any infection or malaria first
- Keep taking folic acid and your usual medicines unless told otherwise
On the day and in hospital
Your team will keep you warm in theatre and recovery, watch your oxygen closely and give oxygen if it drops, and keep fluids going until you are drinking well. Good pain relief matters: pain makes you breathe shallowly, which raises the risk of chest problems.
After the operation you will be encouraged to sit up, take deep breaths, cough, and walk as early as is safe. Breathing exercises are one of the simplest ways to prevent acute chest syndrome. Do not let anyone talk you out of reporting pain.
Warning signs after surgery
Tell the team at once, or go to an emergency department if you are home, for:
- Chest pain, a new cough, fast breathing or feeling short of breath
- Fever
- Pain like a crisis that your usual painkillers do not control
- Becoming very pale, yellow or tired
- Weakness, confusion or difficulty speaking
Sickle cell trait (AS)
People with the trait do not have sickle cell disease. Surgery and anaesthesia are usually no different, but staying well hydrated still matters. Tell the anaesthetist your genotype anyway.
What it costs on Mezo
One night in hospital included.
Common questions
Do I need blood before surgery if I am SS?
Often, yes, especially for medium or bigger operations, but it depends on the operation and your blood count. Your haematologist and anaesthetist decide together.
Can someone with sickle cell have a gallbladder operation?
Yes. Gallstones are common in sickle cell disease, and gallbladder removal is often planned before the stones cause serious problems. Gallbladder removal on Mezo is from ₦750,000, with a written all-in quote after assessment.
My child is SS and needs their tonsils out. Is it safe?
Children with sickle cell commonly have tonsillectomy, especially for snoring and pauses in breathing at night. It needs the same planning: a paediatric haematologist, hydration, warmth and good pain relief.
I am AS. Should I worry about anaesthesia?
Usually not. The trait rarely causes problems during surgery. Stay hydrated and tell your anaesthetist your genotype.
What if I have a crisis just before my operation date?
Tell the team. A planned operation is usually postponed until you have recovered, because operating soon after a crisis carries more risk.
The procedures
Related health guides
More patient guides
Sources and further reading
The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Sickle cell disease. NHS. Patient information.
- Blood transfusion. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Clinical guideline.
Links last checked 22 October 2026.
Medical disclaimer: This guide is general information and does not replace advice from your own doctor. Where your centre's instructions differ from this guide, follow theirs.