Chronic cholecystitis
ICD-10 K81.1 · ICD-11 DC12.1
What Is the Treatment of Chronic Cholecystitis with Symptomatic Gallbladder Stones?
Clinical Scenario
Chronic cholecystitis with symptomatic gallbladder stones is a well-defined surgical indication. Definitive treatment addresses the gallbladder directly, with the operative approach selected according to patient factors and clinical context.
Treatment Approach
Cholecystectomy — surgical removal of the gallbladder — is the established treatment for this condition. A minimally invasive surgical technique is the standard method, with a separate alternative approach available when indicated.
References
- Cholecystectomy is the preferred option for treatment of symptomatic gallbladder stones (moderate quality evidence; strong recommendation).
- Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the standard method of cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallbladder stones including acute calculous cholecystitis (high quality evidence; strong recommendation).
- Mini-laparotomy-cholecystectomy (laparotomy <8 cm) is the alternative to laparoscopic cholecystectomy (high quality evidence; strong recommendation).