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Cholecystitis

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Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis refers to the inflammation of the gallbladder. It is a small pear-shaped organ situated below the liver, responsible for storing bi...
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Cholecystitis: Symptom, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Cholecystitis refers to the inflammation of the gallbladder. It is a small pear-shaped organ situated below the liver, responsible for storing bile that helps in digestion. Cholecystitis most commonly occurs when a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, resulting in inflammation and bile accumulation. To avoid complications like infection, gallbladder rupture, or bile duct obstruction, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential. Manipal Hospitals offer comprehensive care for cholecystitis and associated complications.

Symptoms of Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis symptoms typically include sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen that may radiate to the back or right shoulder. Other symptoms include fever, nausea, abdominal tenderness, vomiting, bloating, and worsening pain after eating fatty meals. 

How We Diagnose Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination and clinical evaluation, with attention to upper right abdominal tenderness. Imaging studies, such as abdominal ultrasound, are employed to detect inflammation of the gallbladder and the presence of gallstones. Blood tests are performed to look for signs of infection or inflammation. CT or HIDA scans may be used to assess gallbladder function or complications.

Treatment Options

The course of cholecystitis treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. Antibiotics, IV fluid administration, and pain management are part of the supportive care. Surgical removal of the gallbladder is the definitive treatment to prevent future episodes of cholecystitis and other related complications.

What to Expect

At Manipal Hospitals, management of cholecystitis is tailored according to the imaging findings, symptom severity, and the patient's overall health status. Initial management comprises a period of fasting to rest the gallbladder, administration of intravenous fluids, and pain management. In cases of confirmed bacterial infection, appropriate antibiotics are given.

If gallstones cause inflammation, a minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy is recommended to remove the gallbladder. This procedure allows quicker healing and less postoperative pain compared to traditional open surgery. In complex cases, open surgery may be required.

Patients who are not eligible for immediate surgery because of severe illness or comorbidities may undergo other procedures. This may include percutaneous gallbladder drainage to control infection or inflammation.

The majority of patients undergoing surgery recover well and gradually return to a normal diet and activity levels. Over time, the digestive system adapts well in the absence of the gallbladder. Postoperative care mainly focuses on assessing recovery, preventing complications, and providing nutritional advice.

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