What is acute cholecystitis and how is it treated?

Acute cholecystitis is the most severe form of inflammation of the gallbladder. The cause is usually the result of gallstones blocking the cystic duct. When this happens, substances normally released into the bile duct are trapped, and inflammatory enzymes are released causing the acute inflammation.

The symptoms usually increase over time and may include pain on the upper right side of the abdomen, chills and fever, nausea and vomiting. Treatment is usually surgery, known as cholecystectomy, to remove the inflamed gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is performed with a tiny camera and surgical tools inserted through small holes in the abdominal wall to allow the surgeon to remove the gallbladder. This is a widely common procedure with low risks and patients may go home the same day. Recovery is often quick so that you may be able to return to normal activity within a few days or no more than a week.

Give us a call at 732-888-9400 if you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with gallstones or cholecystitis so we can get you on the road to recovery soon!