Acute Cholecystitis – Cholecystectomy

Known Symptoms

• Sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the shoulder or back
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Abdominal tenderness, especially after eating fatty foods

Note: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek emergency care immediately. Come to the Emergency Department as soon as possible—drive yourself if you are able, have someone bring you, or call our ambulance service for immediate assistance.

Known Causes

• Gallstones blocking the cystic duct
• Bile duct obstruction or sludge buildup
• Infection in the gallbladder
• Obesity, high-fat diet, or family history of gallstones

Care

• Rapid evaluation and imaging, such as ultrasound or CT scan, to confirm diagnosis
• Pain management, IV fluids, and antibiotics if infection is present
• Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), often laparoscopic
• Postoperative monitoring and gradual return to normal diet and activities