Chronic Cholecystitis Led to Gallbladder Removal in a 48-Year-Old Woman

Summary: This article highlights the case of a 48-year-old woman who suffered from chronic cholecystitis for years. Despite self-medication to manage symptoms like right upper abdominal pain, her condition continued to worsen. Eventually, gallstones and gallbladder wall thickening were diagnosed due to long-term inflammation. To prevent further complications, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy was performed. Within three days post-surgery, the patient experienced significant relief from pain and was discharged with no complications.

Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
The patient, a 48-year-old woman, had been experiencing recurring right upper quadrant pain for years due to chronic cholecystitis. Initially, she managed symptoms with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and bile-stimulating medications, which provided temporary relief but failed to prevent flare-ups. Recently, her discomfort intensified, prompting her to seek medical attention. Routine physical exams and abdominal ultrasound confirmed chronic cholecystitis with gallstones and gallbladder wall thickening. Given the risks of acute cholecystitis and potential malignancy, surgical removal of the gallbladder was strongly recommended. After discussing the procedure and benefits of laparoscopic surgery, the patient agreed to hospitalization for treatment.

Preparation and Surgical Procedure
Upon admission, the patient underwent comprehensive preoperative assessments, including blood tests, liver and kidney function panels, viral screenings, and an electrocardiogram. All results showed no contraindications for surgery. Subsequently, she underwent laparoscopic cholecystectomy under general anesthesia. During the procedure, the removed gallbladder was found to contain multiple stones, but no signs of malignancy were detected. Postoperative pathology confirmed chronic inflammation of the gallbladder.

Recovery and Outcome
As a minimally invasive procedure, the surgery resulted in minimal trauma and a smooth recovery. The patient was able to walk shortly after the operation and reported only mild discomfort at the incision site. By the third day, the pain had significantly subsided, and she resumed normal daily activities. Her right upper abdominal pain had completely resolved, and she was discharged with instructions for postoperative care and follow-up.

Postoperative Care and Recommendations
While the surgery was successful, full recovery requires careful lifestyle adjustments. Important post-discharge recommendations include:

Adopt a low-fat, bland diet for the first three months to help the digestive system adapt to the absence of the gallbladder and reduce the risk of diarrhea;

Visit a local clinic for stitch removal within one week and monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus at the incision site;

Schedule a follow-up appointment one month after surgery for blood tests and abdominal ultrasound to ensure proper healing and rule out complications.

Insights on Chronic Cholecystitis
With modern dietary habits and fast-paced lifestyles, chronic gallbladder diseases are becoming more prevalent, even among younger populations. Persistent upper abdominal discomfort, especially after heavy or fatty meals, should not be ignored or self-treated. Early diagnosis and definitive treatment are essential to prevent complications such as gallstones, gallbladder thickening, or even cancer. This patient's experience serves as a reminder that timely medical intervention can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.