What is the imaging modality of choice for cholecystitis?

The imaging modality of choice for cholecystitis is ultrasound, followed by HIDA scan if necessary. Ultrasound is particularly useful because it is non-invasive, does not involve radiation, and is effective in visualizing gallstones and assessing gallbladder inflammation. It can demonstrate the presence of gallstones, thickening of the gallbladder wall, and the presence of pericholecystic fluid, which are indicative of cholecystitis.

In situations where the ultrasound is inconclusive or further evaluation is needed—such as in cases of suspected acute cholecystitis with normal ultrasound findings—the HIDA scan can be performed. This test assesses gallbladder function and can confirm the diagnosis by showing non-visualization of the gallbladder due to obstruction.

Other imaging modalities, such as CT scans and MRI, while they may have their own uses in abdominal imaging, are not the first choice for evaluating cholecystitis. They can be more expensive, less accessible in urgent settings, and involve radiation exposure in the case of CT. X-ray imaging is not typically useful for diagnosing cholecystitis, as it is less effective in visualizing soft tissues like the gallbladder. Hence, the