Surgery for Gallbladder Cancer – Complete Q&A with Dr. Vivek Mangla, GI & HPB Cancer Specialist in Delhi NCR

15 Oct, 2025

When is surgery for gallbladder cancer needed?

Surgery for gallbladder cancer is needed when the cancer is still confined and removable, if the disease is detected at an early stage — limited to the gallbladder or nearby liver tissue, lymph nodes, or small parts of nearby organs like the bile duct or stomach — surgery offers the best chance of cure.

Sometimes, gallbladder cancer is discovered incidentally after a routine gallbladder removal for stones. This is called incidental gallbladder cancer. If cancer cells are found on biopsy, a completion radical cholecystectomy (a second, more extensive surgery) may be needed to remove part of the liver and nearby lymph nodes.

Gallbladder cancer Surgery is possible only if the disease has not spread to distant organs. In advanced or inoperable cases, doctors may recommend chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or palliative care.

What is removed in surgery for gallbladder cancer?

The operation, known as radical cholecystectomy, usually involves removal of:

• The gallbladder
• A small part of the liver (the area where the gallbladder is attached)
• Nearby lymph nodes (to check for spread and reduce recurrence)

In some advanced cases, parts of nearby organs — such as the bile duct, stomach, or small intestine — may also be removed if the tumour has spread.

We routinely performs radical and robotic gallbladder cancer surgeries at Max Super Speciality Hospital, ensuring precise and safe outcomes.You can also learn more about bile duct cancer treatment and liver surgery options.

When is biopsy needed before surgery?

In most operable cases, biopsy is not required before surgery. However, when the diagnosis is uncertain or when chemotherapy before surgery (called neoadjuvant chemotherapy) is being considered, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.

What is staging laparoscopy and why is it done?

Staging laparoscopy is a small diagnostic procedure done before major gallbladder cancer surgery. A thin camera is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen to look for signs of cancer spread.

Around 10–20% of patients may have small, hidden tumour deposits that are not visible on CT or MRI scans. If these are detected, surgery is avoided and non-surgical treatment options are considered instead.

How should one prepare for gallbladder cancer surgery?

Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth surgery and recovery. Here are some importantadvises patients can follow:

• Undergo a detailed medical check-up (heart, lungs, blood pressure).
• Get blood tests, including liver and kidney function tests.
• Complete staging scans such as CT, MRI, or PET-CT.
• Stop certain medicines like blood thinners before surgery.
• Follow a high-protein diet for better healing.
• Stop smoking and alcohol before surgery.
• Practice deep breathing and walking exercises.

In some patients with jaundice, a biliary stent may be placed before surgery to improve liver function.

What are the risks of gallbladder cancer surgery?

As with any major operation, gallbladder cancer surgery carries some risks:

• Bleeding (may need transfusion)
• Infection (at the wound or internally)
• Anaesthesia-related complications

At specialized centres like Max Hospital, such surgeries are regularly performed, most patients recover well and are discharged within 4–5 days.

How is recovery after Gallbladder cancer surgery?

Recovery depends on the patient’s health and the stage of cancer. Some patients may stay in ICU briefly for monitoring.

Early walking, breathing exercises, and proper nutrition speed up recovery.

Most patients can resume light activity within a few days and return to normal life gradually.

What precautions should be taken at home after surgery?

After discharge, following your surgeon’s advice is key:

• Keep the wound clean and dry.
• Take prescribed medicines on time.
• Eat small, frequent, high-protein meals; avoid oily or spicy food.
• Do light walking or physiotherapy as advised.
• Attend all follow-up visits with your doctor.
• Maintain emotional support and rest for faster recovery.

What if gallbladder cancer is inoperable?

If surgery is not possible, the goal shifts to controlling symptoms and improving quality of life.
Treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy (Gemcitabine + Cisplatin or Oxaliplatin)
• Targeted or Immunotherapy (such as Durvalumab)
• Biliary drainage or stenting to relieve jaundice
• Palliative surgery if needed
• Supportive care – nutrition, counselling, and pain relief

Even when cure is not possible, timely and personalized care can help patients live longer and more comfortably.

About Dr.VivekMangla

Gallbladder Cancer specialist Dr. Vivek Mangla is a leading GI, HPB & Colorectal Cancer Surgeon in Delhi NCR with over 20 years of surgical experience. He practices at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj and Vaishali, where he performs advanced laparoscopic and robotic procedures for gastrointestinal cancers.

Dr. Mangla is known for his expertise in complex liver, pancreas, and colorectal surgeries, combining precision with compassionate patient care to ensure better recovery and long-term outcomes.

To know more, feel free to connect with us