Home
Bupa members

Support and offers for individual members and customers

Gallbladder cancer Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.

Answers to questions about gallbladder cancer

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

Will I need an artificial gallbladder to replace the one that may be removed?

No, you won't need to replace the gallbladder.

Explanation

Bile will be able to drain from your liver directly into your small bowel.

The extra bile in the bowels may increase your bowel movements. It can also cause diarrhoea in two out of 10 people who have had their gallbladder removed. You can limit this, for example by eating a high fibre diet and taking anti-diarrhoea medicines. Limiting caffeinated drinks and dairy products, which can cause diarrhoea, may also help. Ask your doctor for advice.

Further information

Sources

back to top

What is a stent and why is it used?

A stent is a small hollow tube which is used to ensure bile can flow from the liver to the bowel.

Explanation

The stent is about five to 10 cm long and is as thick as the plastic casing of a ballpoint pen. It's used to prevent bile building up in the liver. If this happens, the bile will pass into the bloodstream and may cause jaundice. This is when the skin and the whites of your eyes appear yellowed, your urine is dark and your faeces are pale. Too much bile can be toxic in the body if it isn't removed.

A stent is used if the cancer can't be removed using surgery. Once it has been put in place it will usually need to be replaced every three to four months.

Further information

Sources

back to top

If my gallbladder is removed, can I eat the same foods as I did before?

You should be able to eat the same foods after you recover from your operation.

Explanation

You don't usually need to change your diet long-term after your gallbladder has been removed. You may have gas or bloating after surgery for a few weeks. This will get better over time.

If you have had other organs from your digestive system removed, in particular, the pancreas, you will need to adjust your diet. This is because the pancreas produces insulin (which regulates your blood sugar levels) and digestive juices (chemicals which breakdown food). You may also need to replace the other enzymes by taking tablets. It might help to eat smaller meals more frequently than three times a day. Ask your doctor or dietician for advice.

Further information

Sources

back to top

Related topics

back to top

This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008

 

Rate this page

Up to £100 off a Bupa Health assessment

Bupa health insurance

Free online health check

Bupa Care Homes

Bupa travel cover