Background/Aims: We propose a new strategy to predict the neoplastic polyps of the gallbladder by using a scoring system produced by five endoscopic ultrasonographic variables. Methods: From September 1992 to December 1995, the patients with gallbladder polyps undergoing cholecystectomy were assigned to the construction of endoscopic ultrasonographic scoring system (reference group, n=79). Data were collected on the next consecutively admitted patients between January 1996 and October 1998 (validation group, n=53). Results: In the reference group, size was the most significant predictor of neoplastic polyps. All the polyps ≤ 5 mm in diameter were nonneoplastic. Ninety-four percent of patients with polyps ≥ 15 mm in diameter was neoplastic. In patients with 5 and 15 mm in diameter, endoscopic ultrasonographic scoring system was significantly valuable in discriminating neoplastic from nonneoplastic polyps than size alone criteria. In the validation group, there were significant difference in the risk of neoplastic polyps between polyps with score of 6 and higher and those with score of 5 and under (p<0.01). Conclusion: The calculated score based on the evaluation of five endoscopic ultrasonographic variables enabled the identification of patients at risk of neoplastic polyps between 5 and 15 mm in diameter.
PDF Links
Full text via DOI 
Download Citation 
