What is the Best Treatment for Gallbladder Polyps?

How to Treat Gallbladder Polyps: From Monitoring to Surgery

Gallbladder polyps are defined as abnormal growths of tissue that can project out from within the mucous lining of the gallbladder. There are a few varied classes of polyps comprising varying constituents.

However, while most polyps are harmless, a few may indicate serious conditions that require surgical attention. Gallbladder polyps can also be a sign of a different underlying gallbladder condition. If left untreated, some polyps can lead to complications, including inflammation and neoplastic changes.

Keep reading to understand in detail about the various aspects of gallbladder polyps, like the treatment options available, their incidence, types of gallbladder polyps, and more.

What are the treatment options available for gallbladder polyps?

The gallbladder polyps are a unique form of polyps, as they never resolve independently, however, some cholesterol polyps may shrink with dietary modifications or medical therapy. They are expected to grow in size or number. The only definitive treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder, which is known as cholecystectomy. The removal of the gallbladder prevents the recurrence of these polyps. There are two methods to remove the gallbladder:

1.  Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

This procedure is a minimally invasive method that enables the surgeon to excise the gallbladder with minimal incisions. These incisions serve as ports, which are the sites for insertion of a laparoscope (a lighted tube with a camera), laparoscopic excision instruments, and drainage apparatus. Laparoscopic surgery wounds heal faster compared to an open surgical wound.

2.  Open Cholecystectomy

Open cholecystectomy can be a treatment option for gallbladder polyps that are suspected or confirmed to be malignant. It ensures that the cancer has not spread to the surrounding tissues and structures and allows for the removal of affected tissues in case of metastasis. This procedure requires a longer incision under the right ribcage to completely open up the abdomen. This is a more complex procedure requiring a more extended recovery period.

How Common is a Gallbladder Polyp?

Studies have shown that 4% to 7% of adults have a risk of developing gallbladder polyps. Around 60% to 90% of those turn out to be pseudopolyps. These pseudopolyps are not true tumours but just cholesterol deposits clinging to the gallbladder's wall. These polyps can also turn out to be scar tissue, which is a result of chronic inflammation.

What are the Various Types of Gallbladder Polyps?

The gallbladder polyps can be divided into various subclasses depending on their constitution. The different types include:

• Pseudopolyps: These polyps, also known as cholesterol polyps, result from cholesterol depositions clinging to the gallbladder wall.
• Inflammatory Polyps: Inflammatory polyps result from scar tissue formation following chronic inflammation of the gallbladder wall.
• Adenomyomatosis: It is a harmless abnormal growth of the gallbladder lining that results in cysts in the gallbladder. The cause is unclear.
• Adenomas: These are benign tumours composed of cells that resemble the lining of the biliary tract. These adenomas have a 5% chance of becoming malignant.
• Malignant Polyps: These cancerous polyps belong to the adenocarcinoma class, which is the most common type of cancer in the internal organs.

What is Post-operative Care for Cholecystectomy?

After removing the gallbladder, it may take 2 to 4 weeks for the patient to return to normal activities. This period can extend up to 6 weeks to resume strenuous activities. Practising wound care and maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is essential. The patient must visit the hospital after 7 to 10 days for follow-up.

Also, it is advised to follow a fibre-rich diet and practise gentle exercises such as walking.

Can Fatty Liver Cause Gallbladder Polyps?

In a Korean research study, it has been established that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is an independent risk factor for the causation of gallbladder polyps. The risk factor is unaffected by the presence of sarcopenia and visceral obesity.

Most gallbladder polyps are benign and do not pose a life-threatening risk. A healthy lifestyle helps to avoid polyps in the first place. However, it is essential to consult a doctor if you experience persistent abdominal pain or digestive problems. Detection at early stages and prompt treatment can help prevent these life-threatening conditions.

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