Our approach
Not all polyps require surgical treatment.
We assess the size and shape of the polyp, its growth rate, the presence of associated risk factors, and the results of imaging studies. If the risk of malignant transformation is high, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is recommended. In low-risk cases, safe follow-up monitoring is possible.
What are gallbladder polyps?
A gallbladder polyp is a localized protrusion of the mucous membrane into the lumen of the gallbladder.
The most common types are:
- cholesterol polyps
- inflammatory polyps
- adenomas
- other benign growths
Adenomatous polyps in particular can be precancerous and require special attention.
Why do polyps develop?
The exact cause of polyps is not always known.
Factors that may contribute to their development include:
- impaired cholesterol metabolism
- chronic inflammation of the gallbladder
- gallstone disease
- hereditary predisposition
- age
Symptoms
In most cases, polyps cause no symptoms and are found incidentally during an ultrasound.
Sometimes the following may occur:
- discomfort in the right upper abdomen
- heaviness after eating
- nausea
- symptoms related to coexisting gallstone disease
When to see a doctor
A consultation is recommended if:
- an ultrasound has shown a gallbladder polyp
- the polyp is *10 mm or larger*
- the polyp grows during follow-up
- the polyp has a broad base or suspicious ultrasound features
- there are symptoms of the disease
- the polyp is combined with gallstone disease
- the indications for surgery need to be determined
How is the diagnosis made?
The following are used to assess polyps:
- consultation with a surgeon
- ultrasound examination
- endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) when indicated
- computed tomography
- magnetic resonance imaging
- laboratory tests
- histological examination after surgery
How are gallbladder polyps treated?
The treatment strategy depends on the risk of malignant transformation.
Options may include:
- regular ultrasound monitoring
- laparoscopic cholecystectomy
- additional oncological work-up if malignancy is suspected
Surgical treatment
If surgery is indicated, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the optimal method.
Surgery is recommended for:
- polyps *≥10 mm*
- rapid growth in size
- symptomatic polyps
- polyps combined with high-risk factors for cancer
The removed gallbladder is always sent for histological examination.
Recovery after treatment
After laparoscopic cholecystectomy, most patients leave the hospital the next day.
Thanks to modern ERAS protocols, recovery is fast, and a return to normal life is possible within a few days.
Why choose MSI
- Treatment according to modern international guidelines
- Individual assessment of the risk of malignant transformation
- Extensive experience in laparoscopic cholecystectomy
- Modern diagnostic methods
- Enhanced recovery protocols (ERAS)
- Comprehensive patient support at every stage of treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Most polyps are cholesterol polyps and have no malignant potential. Only certain types, particularly adenomatous polyps, can be precancerous.
In most cases, surgical treatment is recommended for polyps *10 mm or larger*, as well as when they grow or other risk factors are present. The final decision is made individually.
Yes. Small polyps without risk factors usually require only regular ultrasound monitoring in line with international guidelines.
No. A polyp is not removed on its own. When indicated, laparoscopic cholecystectomy — removal of the gallbladder — is performed.
The outlook is excellent. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy completely eliminates the risk of gallbladder disease, and histological examination makes it possible to confirm the nature of the polyp and rule out malignancy.