What are Gallbladder Polyps?
Gallbladder polyps are growths or lesions that form on the inner lining of the gallbladder. While most gallbladder polyps are benign, some may be precancerous or cancerous, necessitating prompt evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing gallbladder polyps typically begins with a thorough medical history review and physical examination. However, imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be necessary to visualize the polyps accurately. In some cases, a specialized imaging technique called endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) may be performed to obtain detailed images of the gallbladder lining.
Types of Gallbladder Polyps
Gallbladder polyps can be classified into different types based on their characteristics:
- Cholesterol Polyps: These are the most common type and are composed of cholesterol deposits.
- Inflammatory Polyps: These develop in response to chronic inflammation of the gallbladder.
- Adenomatous Polyps: These are precancerous polyps that have the potential to develop into gallbladder cancer.
Treatment Options
The treatment approach for gallbladder polyps depends on various factors, including the size, number, and characteristics of the polyps, as well as the patient's overall health and medical history. Treatment options may include:
- Observation: Small, asymptomatic gallbladder polyps may be monitored closely with regular imaging studies to detect any changes in size or appearance over time.
- Surgical Removal: : Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) may be recommended for larger polyps, polyps causing symptoms, or those with suspicious features indicating a risk of cancer Read more about gallbladder surgery here.
Surgical Approach
Dr Golani specialises in performing minimally invasive technique of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy offers several advantages, including smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery compared to open surgery. Read more about gallbladder surgery here.
Postoperative Care
You will be monitored in recovery for some time and will normally be able to go home within 24 hours. You may have some side effects from the general anaesthetic such as a headache, nausea or vomiting, which can be controlled with medicine.
You will have some pain in your abdomen after the operation, which can be controlled using pain relief. You may also have some pain in your shoulder from the gas used in the operation, which can be eased with walking.
You will have a drip in your arm at first, which will be removed after the anaesthetic wears off. You can take sips of water at first then slowly get back to eating and drinking normally.
Important points to remember:
- No driving for 5 days post-discharge from hospital
- Your dressings are waterproof so you can shower as normal
- Do not sit/soak in a bath for 10 days
- Leave your dressings in place for 7 days
- Use regular fibre supplement such a Metamucil will help avoid constipation
- Walking unrestricted is allowed post discharge
- Cycling/running/swimming is allowed 2 weeks post discharge
- Lifting weights may cause complications for your surgery. Limit lifting anything heavier than 8kgs for 4 weeks post-surgery. Additionally, you should not lift anything heavier than 15kgs for a further 4 weeks post-surgery
- No special diet post-surgery is required to be followed
- Make an appointment to see Dr Golani 4 weeks post-surgery
Quality of Life
Gallbladder polyps are common incidental findings on imaging studies, and while most are benign, some may require further evaluation and treatment. If you suspect you may have gallbladder polyps or have been diagnosed with them, please contact our team to request a consultation with Dr Golani.Your Consultation
Dr. Golani will provide further discussion regarding the specifics of your diagnosis during your consultation. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select the hospital for your procedure and potentially set the date for your procedure.
The best surgical hospitals are available for your surgery:
- Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga - Sydney
- The Mater Hospital, North Sydney - Sydney
- Norwest Private Hospital, Bella Vista - Sydney
- Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Hornsby - Sydney
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney:
Please note that a GP referral will be required prior to your consultation.
Contact Us
To make an initial consultation booking, please contact our office on 02 8599 9819.
Click here to email usHornsby Clinic Address:
Madison BuildingSuite 7, 25-29 Hunter St,
Hornsby NSW 2077
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Horsnby clinic is located conviniently next to Hornsby Westfield & Hornsby Station
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Mater Clinic Address:
Suite 13, Level 1 Mater ClinicMater Hospital
25 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Mater clinic is located within Mater Hospital. Parking and Entry (convenient Pickup and Drop Zone) is via 5 Gillies St, Wollstonecraft.
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Norwest Clinic Address:
Suite 301C, Level 3Q Central Building
10 Norbrik Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976
HealthLink: drgolani
Our Norwest - Bella Vista clinic is located within Q Central Building - opposite Norwest Private Hospital. Free Limited Parking is available within the Q Central Building. There is a drop off zone outside of the building. Paid parking is available opposite at Norwest Private Hospital. Additionally there is parking at Woolworths Norwest Circa (5 minutes walk from the Clinic)
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What do I bring to my appointment?
- Referral letter
- X-Rays/Scans
- Test results relating to referral
- Health fund card
- Medicare card
Procedures
Dr. Golani offers an extensive range of General and Colorectal Surgical procedures, expertly addressing a diverse array of symptoms, conditions, and diseases. His patient-focused approach ensures personalised care tailored to individual needs.
Bowel Cancer
Dr. Golani delivers exceptional outcomes in laparoscopic resections for both bowel and rectal cancers, combining expertise with advanced surgical techniques to ensure the highest standard of care.
Hernia Surgery
Dr. Golani specialises in hernia repair surgeries, expertly treating ventral hernias as well as performing advanced laparoscopic procedures for inguinal, femoral, and umbilical hernias. His expertise ensures precise and effective care.
Gall Bladder Surgery
Dr. Golani specialises in minimally invasive gall bladder surgery, ensuring faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays with advanced surgical techniques.
Colonoscopy
Dr. Golani is certified by GESA in advanced endoscopic techniques, enabling him to expertly perform colonoscopies and remove large polyps with precision and care.
Rectal Prolapse Surgery
Dr. Golani is an expert in Laparoscopic Ventral Mesh Rectopexy, a highly effective and minimally invasive procedure for rectal prolapse. His advanced skills ensure precise care and improved outcomes for his patients.
Anal Fistulas & Fissures
Dr. Golani offers expert care in managing painful anal fistulas and fissures, providing effective treatments tailored to relieve discomfort and improve quality of life.
Haemorrhoids
Dr. Golani is highly skilled in both traditional and advanced surgical techniques for treating haemorrhoids, offering effective solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Gastroscopy & Endoscopy
Dr. Golani is accredited by the Gastroenterological Society of Australia (GESA), ensuring advanced expertise and high standards in performing gastroscopy and endoscopy procedures.
