Which is the risk of multiple or single gallbladder polyps?

The risk level of multiple and single gallbladder polyps needs to be comprehensively evaluated based on the size, growth rate, and symptoms of the polyps. Relatively speaking, the risk of cancer is higher when a single polyp is larger, while multiple small polyps are mostly cholesterol related and have a lower probability of malignancy. When the diameter of a single polyp exceeds 10 millimeters, clinical attention significantly increases, and its risks mainly manifest in three aspects: adenomatous polyps account for about 30% with a clear tendency towards cancer, are prone to blood supply abnormalities leading to rapid growth, and are often accompanied by gallbladder wall thickening or gallstones. When the imaging features show a wide base, lobulated or irregular contour, high vigilance is required. In some cases, persistent pain in the upper right abdomen or discomfort after eating greasy food may occur. For such high-risk polyps, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard treatment plan, and postoperative abdominal ultrasound monitoring is required every six months to detect any abnormalities in the bile ducts.

The risk assessment of multiple polyps focuses more on overall observation: over 90% are cholesterol polyps, with diameters mostly arranged in a mulberry like pattern of 3-5 millimeters, and rarely exceeding the critical value of 8 millimeters. Its characteristic is that the sound shadow moves with the body position, and the growth usually does not exceed 2 millimeters within six months. However, two special situations should be noted: diffuse polyps with diffuse thickening of the gallbladder wall should exclude gallbladder adenomyosis, and patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis should strengthen monitoring. For multiple polyps with abnormal growth, gallbladder function testing can be considered to determine whether surgery is necessary.

Regardless of whether there are single or multiple polyps, those with a diameter of less than 5 millimeters and no symptoms can undergo ultrasound re examination every 6-12 months, and those with a diameter of 5-10 millimeters can be followed up for 3-6 months. Daily intake of animal organs and high cholesterol foods should be reduced, and weight should be controlled within the normal range. If there are persistent symptoms of upper right abdominal pain, jaundice, or fever, seek medical attention immediately. Do not self medicate with choleretic drugs to mask the condition. Postoperative patients should pay attention to a low-fat diet and supplement with fat soluble vitamins. It is recommended to choose cooking oil mainly composed of unsaturated fatty acids such as rapeseed oil.