Which department should I visit for gallbladder swelling?

Generally, patients with gallbladder cysts are advised to first seek consultation in specialized departments related to hepatobiliary diseases, including hepatobiliary surgery, gastroenterology, general surgery, emergency medicine, and ultrasound. Specific details are as follows:

1. **Hepatobiliary Surgery**: This is the core clinical department for diagnosis and treatment. For gallbladder cysts that require surgical intervention—such as cysts larger than 5 cm in diameter, those causing compressive symptoms, or complicated cases—this department performs precise procedures such as laparoscopic cyst fenestration. It also manages concurrent conditions like gallstones or bile duct obstruction.

2. **Gastroenterology**: Suitable for asymptomatic small cysts (diameter < 5 cm), this department oversees follow-up management, using abdominal ultrasound and CT scans to monitor changes in the cyst. It also investigates whether the cyst is caused by digestive system disorders such as biliary obstruction or inflammation, and provides symptomatic treatment for associated issues like indigestion or abdominal pain.

3. **General Surgery**: In primary care hospitals or medical institutions without a dedicated hepatobiliary surgery department, general surgery can perform initial diagnosis and basic treatment of gallbladder cysts. This includes managing infections associated with cysts and coordinating referrals to higher-level specialty departments when necessary.

4. **Emergency Department**: For acute emergencies related to gallbladder cysts—such as cyst rupture leading to severe abdominal pain or shock, or complications like acute cholangitis presenting with high fever and jaundice—the emergency department provides immediate life-saving interventions. After stabilizing the patient’s condition, they arrange transfer to an appropriate specialty department for further treatment.

5. **Ultrasound Department**: Although not a direct treatment provider, the ultrasound department plays a critical role by performing imaging exams to determine the size, location, morphology of the cyst, and whether other lesions are present. These findings provide essential radiological evidence for clinical decision-making across various departments.

The choice of department for managing gallbladder cysts should be based on a comprehensive assessment of symptoms, disease severity, and the availability of specialty services at the healthcare facility. Asymptomatic patients may begin follow-up in gastroenterology or general surgery, while those requiring surgery or experiencing acute complications should promptly visit hepatobiliary surgery or the emergency department. The diagnostic contributions of supportive departments like ultrasound must also be emphasized to ensure accurate and effective management.