Gallbladder Polyps: To Operate or Not?
Hello everyone, My partner, a 36-year-old white European woman, has been found to have multiple polyps in her gallbladder. These were identified incidentally during an ultrasound three years ago. A subsequent scan, conducted 18 months later, raised concerns as it seemed these polyps had increased in size. However, a different medical professional concluded that the growth was misinterpreted and that three small polyps had been incorrectly assessed as one larger one. The recommendation was to keep an eye on the situation and disregard any further action if there was no change noted in the following two scans. The first follow-up scan, conducted six months later, indicated no changes, and now, another year has passed with an additional scan completed. The physician noted that while the appearance still suggests a cluster of polyps, he is now uncertain if he can definitively ascertain whether there has been any growth. The largest of these polyps measures approximately 6mm. He now advises that surgery could be a viable option, labeling the case as borderline. I recognize that from a medical standpoint, opting for surgery can be logical since it eliminates any potential for cancer, and over time, routine scans might be more costly than the procedure itself, which is generally considered to have a low risk of serious complications. However, my partner has a sensitive constitution, frequently dealing with bloating and diarrhea, and tends to react poorly to fatty foods. We are apprehensive about having an organ removed, especially when the necessity is uncertain and given that gallbladder cancer is exceedingly rare in individuals under 70. We are currently at a crossroads regarding the next steps. While I am unsure of what specific advice I seek, I would greatly appreciate any guidance that can aid us in making a decision. I would love to learn not just what you might suggest as a medical professional, but also what course of action you would consider if you were in our position.
Answers (1)
8/29/2025, 3:43:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
Deciding on surgery for gallbladder polyps can be challenging, especially when considering your partner's symptoms and the associated risks and benefits. Here are the key points to consider:
Main Points:
- Gallbladder polyps are common and often benign, but monitoring them is essential, especially if there’s uncertainty about size changes.
- Surgery may be suggested to eliminate the risk of potential cancer, but it’s essential to weigh the risks of surgery against the risks of leaving the polyps untreated.
Explanation:
Gallbladder polyps are small growths on the gallbladder wall, and most of them are benign, especially those under 10mm. A polyp measuring 6mm is on the smaller side, and while the risk of gallbladder cancer is low in younger individuals, any uncertainty can lead to the recommendation for surgery. Surgery would remove the polyps and the gallbladder, potentially alleviating future concerns, but it carries risks such as digestive issues post-operation, especially considering your partner’s sensitivity to fats.
Next Steps:
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Seek a Second Opinion: Given the mixed messages from different physicians, consider consulting another specialist (like a gastroenterologist) who has experience with gallbladder polyps. This could provide further clarity on whether surgery is warranted or if continued monitoring is adequate.
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Evaluate Symptoms: Encourage your partner to keep track of her symptoms, including any associations with food types or specific episodes of discomfort. This may help clarify her current health status and the impact of the polyps on her quality of life.
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Discuss Surgical Risks: If surgery is still on the table, it’s important to fully understand the potential risks and benefits. Discuss with the surgeon how removal might impact her current symptoms and any lifestyle changes she might need to adopt.
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Consider Regular Monitoring: If the medical team agrees that the risk is low, you might opt for regular monitoring (e.g., yearly ultrasounds) as a less invasive option. This allows you to keep track of the polyps without making immediate decisions about surgery.
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Supportive Diet: While seeking resolution, focusing on a balanced diet that minimizes greasy and fatty foods could help manage her current gastrointestinal symptoms. Encouraging hydration and potentially smaller meals can also aid in digestion.
In Summary:
It’s important to gather more opinions and information to guide your decision-making process while being mindful of her symptoms. Prioritize understanding the long-term implications of both surgery and continued observation, and consider changes in diet as a part of her ongoing health management. Ultimately, the decision should balance the perceived risks with her comfort and quality of life.
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