Gallbladder Polyps: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Gallbladder polyps typically do not cause noticeable symptoms, making it difficult to detect them based on physical signs alone. Most cases are identified through routine ultrasound examinations or incidental findings during unrelated medical evaluations. Once detected, doctors usually monitor the size of the polyps over time to determine the appropriate course of action.

There are well-defined guidelines for treating gallbladder polyps, which are primarily based on size rather than symptoms. Research indicates that polyps measuring 1 cm or larger carry a significantly increased risk of malignancy. More recent studies suggest that even polyps as small as 5 mm may have the potential to become cancerous. Therefore, patients with polyps of 5 mm or larger are generally advised to consider surgical intervention.

For polyps ranging between 5 mm and 1 cm, a minimally invasive, gallbladder-preserving procedure to remove the polyp is often recommended. This approach avoids the need for gallbladder removal while effectively addressing the potential risk. However, for polyps larger than 1 cm, a rapid pathological examination is performed after removal. If the results indicate malignancy or suspicion of cancer, a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) may be necessary to prevent further complications.

In summary, early detection and careful monitoring of gallbladder polyps are crucial. Understanding the size-related risks helps guide treatment decisions and improves long-term outcomes. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to determine the most appropriate management strategy based on individual circumstances.