Carcinoma of the gall bladder

Abstract

Gallbladder carcinoma is fifth most common gastrointestinal malignancy. Main indication for cholecystectomy is gallstone disease. Majority of gallbladder carcinomas are diagnosed during the course of histopathological evaluation of specimens obtained at cholecystectomy. Accomplishing radical cholecystectomy is advisable in these patients. Technically difficult gallbladder dissection during the course of laparoscopic surgery should raise a high suspicion of malignancy. Specimen retrieval bags should be used in all cases to avoid external spillage of bile giving rise to port side metastasis. A good outcome depends on prompt diagnosis and radical surgical resection. It is essential for a general surgeon to be aware of predisposing factors, pathology, patterns of presentation, and surgical options in gallbladder carcinoma.