A gallbladder polyp is a growth protruding from the lining of a gallbladder. Most gallbladder polyps are benign and do not require treatment.
“People with gallbladder polyps don’t display any symptoms, so you may not know about their existence for a long time” explains Dr Amarchand S. Bajaj, Senior Consultant, General Surgery at Sitaram Bhartia.
Take Raj Khurana for example. Raj was advised an ultrasound when he came to the Diabetes Centre at Sitaram Bhartia for a consultation.
The scan revealed gallbladder polyps. He was then referred to the General Surgery department.
Treatment for Gallbladder Polyps
If the size of the polyp is less than 5 mm an ultrasound should be done every 6 months to assess the polyp.
“Regular monitoring of small gallbladder polyps is required to detect any growth or possibility of malignant polyps” says Dr Amarchand.
If the gallbladder polyp is 10mm or more, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of gallbladder) is advised.
“This helps to reduce the risk of cancer” highlights Dr Amarchand.
Raj’s ultrasound revealed the size of the polyp to be 12 mm.
“We advised surgery because of the size of the polyp,” says Dr Amarchand.
Raj was hesitant about the surgery and discussed it in-depth with the surgeon.
“I understood it was better to do the surgery when I learned that there was a possibility that the polyp may turn out to be cancerous,” recalls Raj.
“I was reassured by the fact that the removal of the gallbladder would not interfere with my quality of life. “
“I resumed work just three days after the surgery and had no trouble at all!”
The biopsy of the polyp revealed that it was indeed cancerous.
“I am so relieved I got the surgery done in time,” says Raj in a follow-up visit.
FAQs around Gallbladder Polyp
Is there natural treatment for gallbladder polyp?
There is no natural treatment for gallbladder polyp.
“The only treatment of gallbladder polyps is regular screenings and surgery if needed” emphasizes Dr Amarchand.
Can gallbladder polyps disappear?
“Gallbladder polyps don’t disappear on their own and there are no medicines which can make them go away” answers Dr Amarchand.
Conclusion
“Gallbladder polyp can affect anyone in any age group. If you have one, don’t be afraid to consult a doctor” concludes Dr Amarchand.
Dr. Amarchand S. Bajaj, with whose editorial inputs this post was written, is well-known among his patients for his candid nature and honest medical opinions.
Come in for a consultation with Dr. Amarchand Bajaj! Call us on +918800816657 to book your appointment.