Do gallbladder polyps always require gallbladder removal?

Sep 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, gallbladder polyps do not necessarily require gallbladder removal; the decision should be based on the size, type, symptoms, and risk of malignancy. Gallbladder polyps with a risk of cancer or those causing significant symptoms require cholecystectomy, whereas asymptomatic and low-risk polyps do not require surgery and can be managed with regular follow-up. In daily care, it is important to maintain a light diet and reduce intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods.

In general, gallbladder polyps do not necessarily require gallbladder removal; the decision should be based on the size, type, symptoms, and risk of malignant transformation. Gallbladders with polyps that carry a risk of cancer or cause significant symptoms usually require surgical removal, whereas asymptomatic and low-risk polyps do not require surgery and can simply be monitored through regular follow-ups. The specific analysis is as follows:

If a gallbladder polyp is larger than 1 cm in diameter, has a broad base, or is identified as an adenomatous polyp, it carries a higher risk of malignancy. To prevent progression to gallbladder cancer, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is typically recommended. Additionally, if the polyp causes recurrent right upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or other discomforts that affect daily life, surgical removal of the gallbladder may be necessary to relieve symptoms.

When a gallbladder polyp is smaller than 1 cm and classified as a low-risk type such as cholesterol polyp, and the patient has no symptoms, immediate gallbladder removal is not required. In such cases, an ultrasound examination every 6–12 months is recommended to monitor changes in the size and morphology of the polyp. If rapid growth of the polyp is detected within a short period, the treatment plan can be adjusted promptly.

In daily care, it is important to maintain a light diet, reduce intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and avoid increasing the burden on the gallbladder. At the same time, strictly adhere to the follow-up schedule and undergo regular check-ups to ensure timely monitoring of any changes in the polyp.

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Do you still get cholecystitis after gallbladder removal?

In general, after cholecystectomy, one will no longer develop cholecystitis since the primary organ where inflammation occurs has been removed. However, abdominal discomfort similar to cholecystitis may occur after surgery and should be differentiated from the original condition. In daily life, individuals who have undergone cholecystectomy should maintain a light diet, avoid consuming large amounts of greasy food at once, and thereby reduce the burden on the bile ducts in secreting bile.

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Can patients with gallbladder polyps eat biscuits?

In general, whether patients with gallbladder polyps can eat biscuits depends on their specific condition and the type of biscuit. When purchasing biscuits, carefully check the ingredient list and prioritize products with minimal additives and fat content below 30%. Biscuits should be consumed with warm water to aid digestion and avoid eating them dry. Additionally, avoid eating biscuits on an empty stomach to prevent irritation to the gastrointestinal tract and gallbladder.

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Which department should I visit for gallbladder polyps?

In general, patients with gallbladder polyps can choose the appropriate department based on their individual conditions. Common departments include hepatobiliary surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, emergency medicine, and physical examination centers. Additionally, it is recommended to research the hospital's departmental structure and doctors' specialties in advance—through the hospital's official website or by phone consultation—to select the most suitable department and physician before visiting.

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Can patients with gallbladder polyps eat chocolate?

In general, whether patients with gallbladder polyps can eat chocolate depends on their condition and the amount consumed. Patients without symptoms and with small polyps may consume chocolate in small amounts, while those experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain or having larger polyps should avoid it to prevent increasing the burden on the gallbladder. In daily dietary care, patients with gallbladder polyps should follow a low-fat, light diet.