Diagnosis
Expert Diagnosis is Key!
Comprehensive evaluation with accurate diagnosis is the foundation for achieving highly successful outcomes. That’s why it’s important to seek care from a center that provides academic level care from a multidisciplinary, specialized team of gastrointestinal experts experienced in the accurate diagnosis of gallbladder cancer, as well as other complex digestive diseases.
Beginning with a thorough evaluation that includes a comprehensive physical exam, personal medical history review and state-of-the-art diagnostic workup, Hoag’s multidisciplinary team of board-certified, fellowship trained gastrointestinal experts carefully evaluate and pinpoint the nature of the cancer, so the most appropriate personalized treatment options can be employed.
Hoag’s state-of-the-art diagnostic technologies provide our team with the latest modalities in the accurate diagnosis of gallbladder cancer and other disorders. Some of the progressive imaging studies that may be utilized include:
- Blood tests are used to determine whether certain substances are being released into the blood by organs, tissues or tumor cells, as well as to check liver function.
- Ultrasound utilizes sound waves to examine the gallbladder and bile ducts in order to detect stones and other masses within the liver and gallbladder.
- Computed Tomography (CT) utilizes state-of-the-art x-rays to help determine the extent of the cancer and whether it encompasses the surrounding organs.
- Cholangiography is an invasive test that uses x-rays and a large needle inserted into the liver to examine the gallbladder and bile ducts. This can be done to collect cells from the bile ducts to help diagnosis cancer.
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is an innovative minimally invasive test that combines x-rays and an endoscope (a long, flexible lighted tube), which is inserted down the throat. This is done to examine the duodenum (first part of the small intestine), bile ducts, and pancreatic ducts. It can also be used to collect cells to help diagnose cancer.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a test that uses magnetic waves to create detailed pictures of structures inside the body.
- Biopsy is performed to definitively diagnose gallbladder cancer, and often requires surgery. Often, gallbladder cancer is discovered as the result of surgery due to a gallbladder “attack.”
It’s important to note that gallbladder cancer is often difficult to diagnose because:
- Early gallbladder disease often shows no symptoms.
- Symptoms often mimic those of other gallbladder conditions (such as gallstones).
- The gallbladder is hidden by other organs in the abdomen. Gallbladder cancer is sometimes discovered during abdominal surgery for another reason.
That’s why it’s so important to seek proper evaluation and treatment from a healthcare expert experienced in the most advanced gallbladder cancer care.
Innovative Treatment for Gallbladder Cancer
When it comes to gallbladder cancer and other gastrointestinal diseases, Hoag-USC Surgical Center for Digestive Diseases provides a full array of progressive treatment options. As a recognized leader and high-volume provider of innovative gastrointestinal care, Hoag’s multidisciplinary team of digestive disease experts performs some of the most advanced gastrointestinal procedures available in the nation with clinical outcomes that rival national figures.
Experience You Can Trust!
Hoag continues to lead the way in complex gastroesophageal care, providing access to a highly specialized surgical team that works collaboratively with Hoag-affiliated thoracic surgeons, gastroenterologists and medical oncology specialists to provide academic-level care. Hoag’s committed to accurate diagnosis, combined with progressive therapeutic options enables Hoag patients to achieve some of the highest clinical outcomes in the nation.
To schedule a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, or a second-opinion consultation with a Hoag gastroesophageal expert, call us at: 888-566-9712.