What is Gallbladder Cancer Surgery?
Gallbladder cancer surgery is the primary and most effective treatment for removing cancerous tissue from the gallbladder and surrounding structures.
Because gallbladder cancer often develops silently, early diagnosis and complete surgical removal provide the best chance for long-term survival.
The surgery may include removal of the gallbladder alone or together with parts of the liver and nearby lymph nodes.
Why is Gallbladder Cancer Surgery Needed?
Surgery is recommended for patients with:
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Confirmed gallbladder cancer
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Suspicious gallbladder masses found during imaging or cholecystectomy
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Tumors invading surrounding liver segments
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Polyps larger than 1 cm with malignancy risk
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Chronic gallbladder inflammation with suspicious features
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Early-stage cancers that can be completely removed
Surgery provides the best curative option when the disease is detected early.
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Types of Gallbladder Cancer Surgery
At Büyük Anadolu Hospital, our hepatobiliary surgeons offer:
Simple Cholecystectomy
Removal of the gallbladder for early, incidental cancers.
Radical Cholecystectomy
Includes:
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Gallbladder removal
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Wedge resection of liver segments IVb–V
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Regional lymph node dissection
The gold-standard approach for most gallbladder cancers.
Extended Liver Resection
For tumors invading deeper into liver tissue.
Bile Duct Resection & Reconstruction
If cancer spreads into the bile ducts.
Palliative Surgery
For advanced cases to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
How is Gallbladder Cancer Surgery Performed?
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Carried out under general anesthesia
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Duration: 2–4 hours depending on cancer stage
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Involves removal of tumor, gallbladder, lymph nodes, and possibly part of the liver
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Reconstruction of bile ducts may be required
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Performed via open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques
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Hospital stay: 4–7 days
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Early mobilization is encouraged for faster recovery
Possible Risks & Our Preventive Measures
| Possible Risks | Our Preventive Measures |
|---|---|
| Infection | Sterile surgery + prophylactic antibiotics |
| Bile leakage | Precise surgical technique & postoperative drain monitoring |
| Bleeding | Advanced vessel control & careful dissection |
| Liver dysfunction | Pre-op liver assessment & limited resection strategy |
| Digestive issues | Dietitian support + gradual diet progression |
| Blood clots | Early mobilization & anticoagulants |
Why Choose Büyük Anadolu Hospital for Gallbladder Cancer Surgery?
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Expert HPB (Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary) surgeons with extensive gallbladder cancer experience
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Availability of laparoscopic & robotic techniques for select cases
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Multidisciplinary cancer care: Surgery + Oncology + Radiology + Pathology
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On-site CT, MRI, PET-CT for accurate staging
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Full postoperative support including nutrition and rehabilitation
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Affordable treatment compared to UK, Europe, and the US
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Seamless care for international patients from diagnosis to follow-up
Gallbladder Cancer Surgery FAQ
Early-stage cancers may be suitable, but radical cases usually require open surgery.
Only if lymph nodes are positive or cancer is advanced.
Light activity in 2 weeks, full recovery in 6–8 weeks.
Early-stage gallbladder cancer treated with surgery offers the best long-term outcomes.