Treatment of Porcelain Gallbladder with Selective Mucosal Calcification and No Symptoms
This protocol covers the management of porcelain gallbladder presenting with selective mucosal calcification of the gallbladder wall in a patient who has no symptoms or active complications of gallbladder disease.
Clinical Scenario
Gallbladder wall calcification is classified by its pattern: complete intramural calcification versus selective mucosal calcification. The selective mucosal subtype carries a distinct risk profile — evidence indicates it is significantly associated with gallbladder malignancy, even when the patient remains entirely asymptomatic. The absence of symptoms does not resolve this risk, and the calcification subtype itself drives management decisions.
Management Approach
Current evidence supports active surgical management for selective mucosal calcification regardless of symptom status. The full protocol specifies the recommended operative approach and the intraoperative assessments considered essential at the time of surgery — details are available via the link below.