Gallbladder Polyps: Treatment Options and Surgical Considerations

When it comes to treating gallbladder polyps, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is often the preferred method. This minimally invasive procedure allows for the removal of the gallbladder, which is then sent to a pathology lab for further analysis through staining and sectioning. This step is crucial in determining whether the polyp is adenomatous, cholesterol-related, or potentially another type of lesion.

Patients diagnosed with gallbladder polyps should undergo regular follow-up abdominal ultrasounds to monitor the size and growth rate of the polyps. If an ultrasound reveals a polyp smaller than 1 cm in diameter, a watchful waiting approach is generally recommended. However, if the polyp grows rapidly and reaches or exceeds 1 cm, surgical intervention is typically advised.

Recovery after surgery usually takes about two weeks, during which patients are encouraged to gradually return to a normal diet. It is important to note that medication is not generally recommended for gallbladder polyps. Studies have shown that pharmacological treatments offer little benefit in reducing or eliminating these types of polyps, while also increasing overall medical costs. Therefore, surgery remains the most effective and reliable treatment option for patients with significant gallbladder polyps.