Carcinoma Developing in a Remnant of the Gallbladder

Abstract

Four cases of carcinoma developing in a remnant of the gallbladder are reported. In each case carcinoma developed many years after the diagnosis of gallbladder disease was made. Since the prognosis of carcinoma of the gallbladder is so grave, ever attempt should be made to eliminate the conditions which might foster carcino-genesis. This means not only early operation, but complete removal of the gallbladder when disease in this organ is encountered. Cholecystec-tomy is the procedure of choice. However, if the surgeon finds it unwise to remove the gallbladder completely, he should not delay removing the gallbladder remnants as soon as the patient''s condition permits.