Primary Carcinoma of the Gallbladder

Abstract

A review of 28 cases of cancer of the gallbladder seen in a ten-year period showed a sex distribution of 23 females and five males. Of these, 17 patients had had biliary symptoms for at least six months or had evidence of stones as a result of x-ray examinations, and 26 had instances of gallstones. In six of the eight patients in whom simple cholecystectomy was done, the gallbladder was not opened at the time of operation and the cancer was not then recognized. Two of these patients are living more than five years later. Opening of all gallbladders at the time of operation is recommended so that more extensive resection can be done where appropriate.