This information represents the views of the doctors and nurses serving on the American Cancer Society's Cancer Information Database Editorial Board. These views are based on their interpretation of studies published in medical journals, as well as their own professional experience.

The treatment information in this document is not official policy of the Society and is not intended as medical advice to replace the expertise and judgment of your cancer care team. It is intended to help you and your family make informed decisions, together with your doctor.

Your doctor may have reasons for suggesting a treatment plan different from these general treatment options. Don't hesitate to ask him or her questions about your treatment options.

The first part of this section describes the various types of treatments used for gallbladder cancers. This is followed by a description of the most common approaches used for these cancers based on different situations.

Making treatment decisions

After gallbladder cancer is found and staged, your cancer care team will discuss your treatment options with you. It is important for you to take time and think about your choices. In choosing a treatment plan, factors to consider include the type and stage of the cancer, the likely side effects of treatment, your overall health, and the chances of curing the disease, extending life, or relieving symptoms.

If time permits, it is often a good idea to seek a second opinion, particularly for an uncommon cancer such as gallbladder cancer. A second opinion can provide more information and help you feel more confident about your chosen treatment plan.

Nearly all doctors agree that surgery offers the only real chance for curing people with gallbladder cancer. But there are differences of opinion about how advanced a gallbladder cancer may be and still be curable. Therefore, it may be especially important for people with gallbladder cancer to seek a second opinion when considering treatment options. Finding a doctor experienced in treating this disease may have other benefits as well. Most studies have found that more extensive surgeries tend to result in higher survival rates, but such operations are most often done at major cancer centers and may not be available in every community.

In general, spread of the cancer beyond the gallbladder does not make it incurable by surgery unless the cancer has spread too far or into major blood vessels. For instance, if the cancer has invaded the liver -- but only in one area and not too deeply -- it may be possible to remove all of the cancer by surgery. If the cancer has spread to both sides of the liver, to the lining of the abdominal cavity, to organs farther away from the gallbladder than the liver, or if it surrounds a major blood vessel, surgery is unlikely to remove it all.

Last Medical Review: 11/02/2009
Last Revised: 11/02/2009