Version July 2025
* Nonspecific dyspeptic symptoms alone are not an indication for cholecystectomy.
¶ For patients with gallbladder polyps ≥10 mm, we obtain preoperative cross-sectional imaging (eg, computed tomography scan) to evaluate for gallbladder cancer. For some patients, lymph node dissection may be warranted. Refer to content on surgical management of gallbladder cancer for additional details.
Δ High risk groups include East Asian individuals, Indian individuals, and Native American individuals.
◊ We refer patients with polyps measuring 6 to 9 mm and at least one additional risk factor for cholecystectomy because of the increased risk of gallbladder cancer. For patients who do not wish to undergo cholecystectomy, we discuss surveillance ultrasound as an alternative.
§ An increase in polyp size by >2 mm on imaging within a two-year period may represent a clinically relevant increase in size. We usually refer patients with polyp growth rate >3 mm within one year for cholecystectomy. In addition, the decision of whether to continue surveillance or to perform cholecystectomy is informed by the final size of the polyp, the patient's risk factors for gallbladder cancer, patient preferences, and multidisciplinary input.
