Cholecystitis Physical Exam: Key Evaluation Steps
Cholecystitis Physical Exam: Key Evaluation Steps Cholecystitis symptoms can vary, but some common indicators include abdominal pain, tenderness, and fever. During the physical exam, healthcare providers will pay particular attention to these symptoms and perform a comprehensive gallbladder examination.
In the following sections, we will delve into specific aspects of the physical exam for cholecystitis. We will discuss the importance of identifying abdominal tenderness as a key indicator, the significance of Murphy’s sign in diagnosing gallbladder inflammation, and the assessment of jaundice as an indicator of possible biliary obstruction.
Furthermore, we will explore the evaluation of right upper quadrant pain and the use of palpation techniques to detect abnormalities in the gallbladder. In addition to these specific findings, there are other key physical exam findings that can provide valuable insights in diagnosing cholecystitis.
Differential diagnosis is also an essential component of the physical exam, as cholecystitis shares symptoms with other conditions. We will discuss the importance of ruling out these conditions and explore how diagnostic imaging techniques can supplement the physical exam findings.
In a clinical setting, a thorough cholecystitis physical exam is crucial for healthcare providers to provide accurate diagnoses. At Acibadem Healthcare Group, our experienced medical professionals prioritize a comprehensive evaluation, combining the physical exam with diagnostic imaging, when necessary.
In summary, a diligent cholecystitis physical exam encompasses various evaluation steps, including the assessment of symptoms, the use of specific examination maneuvers, and the consideration of differential diagnoses. By closely examining these aspects, healthcare professionals can provide accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans for patients experiencing cholecystitis symptoms.
Abdominal Tenderness: A Key Indicator of Cholecystitis
In the evaluation and diagnosis of cholecystitis, abdominal tenderness plays a critical role. The presence of tenderness in the abdominal area can provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals in identifying and assessing this inflammatory condition of the gallbladder.
Abdominal tenderness is a common symptom experienced by individuals with cholecystitis. It is characterized by discomfort or pain upon palpation of the abdomen, particularly in the upper right quadrant. Healthcare providers carefully evaluate the location, severity, and duration of abdominal tenderness to aid in the diagnosis of cholecystitis.
When conducting a physical exam, healthcare professionals systematically assess the abdominal region, looking for any signs of tenderness or pain. They may use gentle pressure with their fingers to evaluate different areas of the abdomen, focusing on the gallbladder region. Abdominal tenderness in this area can indicate inflammation and possible cholecystitis.
The presence of abdominal tenderness in conjunction with other cholecystitis symptoms, such as right upper quadrant pain, fever, and nausea, contributes to a more comprehensive evaluation. These collective findings help healthcare providers differentiate cholecystitis from other conditions that may present similar symptoms.
Overall, careful assessment of abdominal tenderness during a physical exam is a key component in the evaluation and diagnosis of cholecystitis. By recognizing and interpreting this important indicator, healthcare professionals can provide timely interventions and appropriate management for patients with cholecystitis.
Murphy’s Sign: A Telltale Sign of Gallbladder Inflammation
Murphy’s sign is a crucial physical examination maneuver used in the diagnosis of cholecystitis. It serves as a reliable indicator of gallbladder inflammation. Let’s delve into the details of performing and interpreting Murphy’s sign to enhance cholecystitis diagnosis accuracy.
To perform Murphy’s sign, the healthcare provider palpates the patient’s right upper quadrant (RUQ) while the patient takes a deep breath. If the patient experiences pain and abruptly stops their inspiration due to tenderness over the gallbladder when pressure is exerted during inhalation, it is considered a positive Murphy’s sign.
Why is Murphy’s sign important in cholecystitis diagnosis?
Murphy’s sign is a highly specific test in detecting acute cholecystitis, with a reported sensitivity of 60-90%. Its presence signifies gallbladder inflammation and can help differentiate cholecystitis from other causes of RUQ pain.
Interpreting Murphy’s sign:
- If no pain or tenderness is experienced during deep inspiration, it suggests the absence of gallbladder inflammation.
- If the patient experiences pain with deep inspiration, but it is not localized to the RUQ, it may indicate pain of extrabiliary origin.
- If the patient experiences localized RUQ pain with deep inspiration, it is highly suggestive of acute cholecystitis.
It is essential to note that Murphy’s sign can be challenging to elicit in certain patients, especially those with obesity or severe abdominal tenderness. In such cases, alternative diagnostic methods may be necessary to confirm cholecystitis.
To support the significance of Murphy’s sign in cholecystitis diagnosis, let’s take a look at the table below:
Test | Sensitivity | Specificity |
---|---|---|
Murphy’s sign | 60-90% | Up to 90% |
Ultrasound | 95% | Up to 95% |
CT scan | 88-96% | Up to 98% |
As shown in the table, Murphy’s sign provides valuable diagnostic information that can complement other imaging modalities like ultrasound and CT scan, further increasing the accuracy of cholecystitis diagnosis.
In the next section, we will discuss the assessment of jaundice and its role in evaluating potential biliary obstruction.
Evaluation of Jaundice: Assessing Biliary Obstruction
Jaundice is a crucial symptom to evaluate during the physical exam for cholecystitis. It can be indicative of biliary obstruction, which is often associated with this condition. Assessing jaundice helps healthcare providers gain valuable insights into the functioning of the biliary system and aids in the diagnosis and evaluation of cholecystitis.
During the evaluation of jaundice, the healthcare provider will assess the patient’s skin and eyes for yellow discoloration. The presence of jaundice suggests that there is an obstruction in the bile ducts, which may be caused by gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder.
Additionally, the provider may perform specific tests to further evaluate the severity and cause of the biliary obstruction. These tests may include:
- Liver function tests: These blood tests measure the levels of liver enzymes, bilirubin, and other markers to assess the overall function of the liver and determine the extent of jaundice.
- Abdominal ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. It can help identify gallstones or other abnormalities that may be causing the biliary obstruction.
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure combines endoscopy and X-ray imaging to visualize the bile ducts and identify any structural abnormalities or blockages.
By evaluating jaundice and performing these tests, healthcare providers can gather important information about the underlying cause of cholecystitis and tailor the treatment accordingly.
Test | Purpose |
---|---|
Liver function tests | Assess the overall liver function and determine the extent of jaundice. |
Abdominal ultrasound | Visualize the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts to identify gallstones or other abnormalities causing biliary obstruction. |
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) | Combine endoscopy and X-ray imaging to visualize the bile ducts and identify structural abnormalities or blockages. |
Assessing Right Upper Quadrant Pain: A Key Symptom
Right upper quadrant pain is a common symptom in the evaluation of cholecystitis. Examining the location, characteristics, and severity of the pain is crucial for identifying potential cases of cholecystitis and determining the appropriate course of action.
During the physical exam, healthcare providers carefully assess the patient’s description of the pain and conduct a thorough examination of the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. This assessment helps to differentiate cholecystitis from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
To accurately evaluate right upper quadrant pain, healthcare providers may perform various tests, such as palpation, percussion, and deep inspiration maneuvers. These techniques can help identify specific areas of tenderness or discomfort in the gallbladder region, providing valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment decisions.
Evaluating Right Upper Quadrant Pain
When evaluating right upper quadrant pain, healthcare providers pay close attention to the following aspects:
- The location and radiation of the pain
- The nature and intensity of the pain (e.g., sharp, dull, burning)
- The duration and frequency of the pain episodes
- Aggravating or alleviating factors (e.g., fatty meals, physical activity)
- Associated symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, fever)
By thoroughly assessing right upper quadrant pain and considering the patient’s medical history and other physical exam findings, healthcare providers can make informed decisions regarding further diagnostic testing and appropriate management for suspected cholecystitis cases.
Pain Characteristics | Possible Causes |
---|---|
Sharp, colicky pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder | Gallstones, biliary colic |
Constant, dull ache that worsens with movement or deep breathing | Cholecystitis, gallbladder inflammation |
Cramping or gnawing pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting | Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., gastritis, peptic ulcer) |
Note: The table above highlights some possible causes of specific pain characteristics but is not an exhaustive list. Healthcare providers consider multiple factors when diagnosing cholecystitis.
In conclusion, assessing right upper quadrant pain is vital during the physical exam for cholecystitis evaluation. By carefully evaluating the location, characteristics, and associated symptoms of the pain, healthcare providers can make more accurate diagnoses and provide appropriate treatment plans for their patients.
Palpation Techniques: Detecting Abnormalities in the Gallbladder
During a physical exam for cholecystitis, palpation of the gallbladder plays a crucial role in detecting abnormalities and assessing the overall condition. Palpation involves the gentle manual examination of the gallbladder area to identify signs of tenderness, inflammation, or structural changes that may indicate cholecystitis.
List of Palpation Techniques:
- Murphy’s Technique: One commonly used technique is Murphy’s technique, where the healthcare provider applies gentle pressure under the right costal margin while the patient takes a deep breath. A positive result is the patient suddenly stopping the inhalation due to pain or tenderness, indicating possible cholecystitis.
- Hooking Technique: Another technique involves hooking the fingers under the right costal margin and applying gentle upward pressure while instructing the patient to take a deep breath. Any pain or tenderness is noted and may suggest cholecystitis.
- Deep Inspiration Technique: In this technique, the healthcare provider palpates the gallbladder by pressing with their fingertips while instructing the patient to take a deep breath. Any discomfort or tenderness during this maneuver can be indicative of cholecystitis.
These palpation techniques allow for a thorough evaluation of the gallbladder and can provide valuable information in diagnosing cholecystitis. However, it is important to note that palpation findings should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical indicators, medical history, and diagnostic tests to achieve an accurate diagnosis.
Additional Key Physical Exam Findings
While specific signs and symptoms are important in evaluating cholecystitis, there are other key physical exam findings that can provide valuable insights. These findings, when combined with the patient’s history and other diagnostic tests, contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of cholecystitis.
During the physical examination, healthcare providers look for the following additional key findings:
- Murphy’s sign: This maneuver involves palpating the right upper quadrant of the abdomen while asking the patient to take a deep breath. If the patient experiences pain and abruptly halts their breath due to the tenderness felt when the gallbladder descends onto the examiner’s hand, it suggests possible gallbladder inflammation.
- Icterus: Also known as jaundice, icterus is the yellowing of the skin and eyes, indicating the presence of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Evaluating the presence of icterus during the physical exam can help assess potential biliary obstruction associated with cholecystitis.
- Murphy’s punch: This test involves gently tapping over the area of the gallbladder. If the patient experiences pain or tenderness upon tapping, it may indicate cholecystitis or gallbladder pathology.
- Abdominal bloating: The presence of bloating or distention in the abdomen can suggest gallbladder inflammation or dysfunction. This finding, along with other symptoms, assists in the evaluation of cholecystitis.
- Fever: Elevated body temperature is a common response to inflammation. Therefore, assessing for fever during the physical exam aids in evaluating the severity and progression of cholecystitis.
- Elevated heart rate: A rapid heart rate can indicate systemic inflammation and infection, which might occur with cholecystitis. Monitoring the patient’s heart rate helps evaluate the overall condition and response to the infection.
- Muscle guarding: The involuntary tensing of the abdominal muscles, termed muscle guarding, is often present in cases of cholecystitis. Detecting muscle guarding during palpation may indicate gallbladder inflammation or infection.
These additional physical exam findings, in conjunction with the typical symptoms and diagnostic tests such as ultrasound and blood work, play a vital role in evaluating cholecystitis and guiding appropriate management decisions.
Additional Key Findings | Significance |
---|---|
Murphy’s sign | Possible gallbladder inflammation |
Icterus | Assessment of biliary obstruction |
Murphy’s punch | Indication of gallbladder pathology |
Abdominal bloating | Suggestive of gallbladder inflammation or dysfunction |
Fever | Indicator of the severity and progression of cholecystitis |
Elevated heart rate | Assessment of systemic inflammation and infection |
Muscle guarding | Possible gallbladder inflammation or infection |
Differential Diagnosis: Ruling Out Other Conditions
When evaluating a patient for cholecystitis, it is crucial to consider the possibility of other conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Differential diagnosis plays a vital role in distinguishing cholecystitis from these other potential conditions. By ruling out these alternative diagnoses, healthcare providers can arrive at an accurate cholecystitis diagnosis.
Cholecystitis shares symptoms with various gastrointestinal and abdominal disorders, including:
- Gastritis
- Peptic ulcer disease
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Acute pancreatitis
- Hepatitis
- Appendicitis
- Choledocholithiasis
Performing a comprehensive physical exam along with a detailed patient history can help identify key differentiating factors. Healthcare providers should pay particular attention to the presence of abdominal pain, tenderness, and specific localized symptoms, such as right upper quadrant pain and Murphy’s sign. Additionally, evaluating factors like the presence of jaundice or biliary obstruction can further aid in ruling out other conditions.
Table:
Condition | Key Differentiating Factors |
---|---|
Gastritis | – Epigastric pain – History of alcohol or NSAID use – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
Peptic Ulcer Disease | – Epigastric pain – History of NSAID use – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
GERD | – Heartburn – Acid reflux symptoms – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
Acute Pancreatitis | – Severe epigastric or abdominal pain – History of alcohol use or gallstones – Elevated amylase and lipase levels |
Hepatitis | – Jaundice – Elevated liver enzymes – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
Appendicitis | – Lower right abdominal pain – Fever and rebound tenderness in the right lower quadrant – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
Choledocholithiasis | – Obstructive jaundice – History of gallstones – Absence of specific gallbladder-related symptoms |
By carefully considering the key differentiating factors mentioned in the table, healthcare providers can effectively rule out other conditions and focus on diagnosing and treating cholecystitis.
Diagnostic Imaging: Supplementing the Physical Exam
In addition to the physical exam, diagnostic imaging techniques play a crucial role in confirming the diagnosis of cholecystitis and evaluating the condition. These imaging methods provide valuable insights into the gallbladder and assist in the identification of inflammation or other abnormalities. They supplement the findings from the physical exam and contribute to a comprehensive evaluation process.
Cholecystitis diagnosis imaging techniques include:
- Ultrasound: A widely used and non-invasive imaging technique that uses sound waves to create detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding structures. It helps visualize gallstones, gallbladder wall thickening, and signs of inflammation.
- CT Scan: Computed Tomography (CT) scans are useful in confirming the diagnosis of cholecystitis and assessing the severity of the condition. It provides cross-sectional images and aids in detecting complications such as abscesses or perforation.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers detailed images of the gallbladder and helps identify gallstones, infection, or other abnormalities.
- HIDA Scan: Hepatobiliary Iminodiacetic Acid (HIDA) scan is a nuclear medicine test that evaluates the functioning of the gallbladder and the biliary system. It helps determine if there is any obstruction or dysfunction.
These diagnostic imaging techniques enable healthcare providers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition, supplementing the physical exam findings. They provide visual evidence to support the suspected diagnosis and assist in determining the appropriate course of treatment for cholecystitis.
Cholecystitis Physical Exam in a Clinical Setting
In a clinical setting, the cholecystitis physical exam plays a crucial role in evaluating patients who may be experiencing symptoms indicative of cholecystitis. Healthcare providers, such as the experienced professionals at Acibadem Healthcare Group, utilize this exam to ensure accurate diagnoses and provide appropriate treatment plans.
During the cholecystitis physical exam, healthcare providers conduct a thorough evaluation of the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and perform various diagnostic procedures to assess the condition of the gallbladder. This comprehensive approach allows for a more accurate diagnosis and a better understanding of the patient’s overall health.
The evaluation typically begins with a detailed discussion of the patient’s symptoms, which may include right upper quadrant pain, tenderness, jaundice, and other common signs of cholecystitis. The healthcare provider will then proceed with a physical examination of the abdominal area, focusing on palpation techniques to detect any abnormalities in the gallbladder.
Additionally, diagnostic imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be utilized to supplement the physical exam findings and confirm the diagnosis of cholecystitis. These imaging tests provide detailed images of the gallbladder, allowing healthcare providers to assess its condition and identify any inflammation or other abnormalities.
Based on the findings from the cholecystitis physical exam and diagnostic imaging, healthcare providers at Acibadem Healthcare Group are able to develop tailored treatment plans for patients with cholecystitis. Treatment options may range from conservative management to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s individual circumstances.
Overall, the cholecystitis physical exam is a critical component of the diagnostic process in a clinical setting. Through a thorough evaluation, healthcare providers can accurately diagnose cholecystitis and provide appropriate treatment to improve the patient’s health and well-being.
Benefits of Cholecystitis Physical Exam in a Clinical Setting | How Healthcare Providers Utilize the Cholecystitis Physical Exam |
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Key Takeaways and Conclusion
After exploring the various aspects of the cholecystitis physical exam, it is clear that this evaluation plays a crucial role in diagnosing and evaluating cholecystitis. By carefully assessing symptoms and conducting a thorough examination, healthcare providers can gather valuable information to guide their diagnostic process and treatment plans.
Some key takeaways from this examination include:
- A thorough evaluation of abdominal tenderness can indicate the presence of cholecystitis.
- Murphy’s sign is a significant maneuver used to assess gallbladder inflammation.
- Evaluating jaundice can help identify biliary obstruction associated with cholecystitis.
- Assessing right upper quadrant pain is essential as it is a common symptom of cholecystitis.
- Palpation techniques can help detect abnormalities in the gallbladder.
- Additional physical exam findings can provide further insights into the presence of cholecystitis.
- Performing a differential diagnosis is necessary to rule out other conditions that mimic cholecystitis.
- Diagnostic imaging techniques can supplement the physical exam findings to confirm cholecystitis.
In conclusion, the cholecystitis physical exam, when conducted thoroughly and accurately, serves as a valuable tool in diagnosing and evaluating cholecystitis. If you are experiencing symptoms or concerns related to cholecystitis, it is essential to seek medical attention for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Key Takeaways | Cholecystitis Physical Exam | Cholecystitis Diagnosis | Cholecystitis Symptoms |
---|---|---|---|
A thorough evaluation of abdominal tenderness can indicate the presence of cholecystitis. | Assessing abdominal tenderness is a vital step in the cholecystitis physical exam. | The physical exam findings contribute to the overall diagnosis of cholecystitis. | Identifying and evaluating symptoms such as abdominal pain is crucial in diagnosing cholecystitis. |
Murphy’s sign is a significant maneuver used to assess gallbladder inflammation. | Murphy’s sign is a crucial component of the cholecystitis physical exam. | Interpreting Murphy’s sign can aid in confirming the diagnosis of cholecystitis. | Murphy’s sign is a common symptom associated with cholecystitis. |
Evaluating jaundice can help identify biliary obstruction associated with cholecystitis. | The presence of jaundice is assessed during the cholecystitis physical exam. | Jacquise can suggest a possible biliary obstruction leading to cholecystitis. | Jaundice can be indicative of cholecystitis and associated biliary obstruction. |
Assessing right upper quadrant pain is essential as it is a common symptom of cholecystitis. | Right upper quadrant pain is a significant focus in the cholecystitis physical exam. | Evaluating right upper quadrant pain is crucial in diagnosing cholecystitis. | Right upper quadrant pain is one of the key symptoms indicating cholecystitis. |
Palpation techniques can help detect abnormalities in the gallbladder. | Gallbladder palpation is an important part of the cholecystitis physical exam. | Palpation techniques provide valuable insights into gallbladder abnormalities in cholecystitis. | Abnormalities detected through palpation can indicate cholecystitis. |
Additional physical exam findings can provide further insights into the presence of cholecystitis. | The cholecystitis physical exam encompasses various additional findings. | Additional physical exam findings contribute to the diagnosis of cholecystitis. | Examining additional physical findings can help confirm the presence of cholecystitis. |
Performing a differential diagnosis is necessary to rule out other conditions that mimic cholecystitis. | Differential diagnosis is an important step in the cholecystitis physical exam. | Identifying and ruling out other conditions is crucial to the accurate diagnosis of cholecystitis. | A differential diagnosis helps differentiate cholecystitis from other similar conditions. |
Diagnostic imaging techniques can supplement the physical exam findings to confirm cholecystitis. | Diagnostic imaging is an essential aspect of the cholecystitis physical exam. | Combined with physical exam findings, diagnostic imaging helps confirm the diagnosis of cholecystitis. | Diagnostic imaging aids in confirming the presence and severity of cholecystitis. |
FAQ
What are the key evaluation steps involved in conducting a physical exam for cholecystitis?
The key evaluation steps in a physical exam for cholecystitis include assessing symptoms such as right upper quadrant pain, performing a comprehensive gallbladder examination, evaluating abdominal tenderness, assessing for the presence of jaundice, and conducting palpation techniques to detect abnormalities in the gallbladder.
How is abdominal tenderness used as an indicator of cholecystitis?
Abdominal tenderness is a key indicator of cholecystitis. The presence of tenderness in the abdominal area suggests inflammation or infection of the gallbladder. During a physical exam, the healthcare provider will assess the level of tenderness and its location to help in the evaluation and diagnosis of cholecystitis.
What is Murphy's sign, and how is it used in diagnosing cholecystitis?
Murphy's sign is a physical examination maneuver used to assess gallbladder inflammation. It involves palpating the right upper quadrant of the abdomen while the patient takes a deep breath. If the patient experiences sudden pain and stops breathing during the maneuver, it is considered a positive Murphy's sign, suggestive of gallbladder inflammation and potential cholecystitis.
Why is the evaluation of jaundice important in the physical exam for cholecystitis?
Jaundice can be indicative of biliary obstruction, which may be associated with cholecystitis. During the physical exam, the healthcare provider will assess for the presence of jaundice by examining the color of the patient's skin and eyes. If jaundice is present, it suggests a potential blockage in the biliary system and may require further evaluation for cholecystitis.
How is right upper quadrant pain assessed during the physical exam for cholecystitis?
Right upper quadrant pain is a common symptom of cholecystitis. During the physical exam, the healthcare provider will assess the location, severity, and duration of the pain. They may also ask the patient to describe any associated symptoms, such as nausea or vomiting. Assessing right upper quadrant pain helps in determining if cholecystitis is a likely diagnosis.
How are palpation techniques used to detect abnormalities in the gallbladder during a cholecystitis physical exam?
Palpation of the gallbladder involves using hands to carefully feel the right upper quadrant of the abdomen for any abnormalities or tenderness. The healthcare provider may perform techniques such as deep palpation or hooking maneuver to assess the gallbladder for inflammation, stones, or other abnormalities that may be indicative of cholecystitis.
Are there any other key physical exam findings that can help in evaluating cholecystitis?
Yes, apart from the specific signs and symptoms mentioned earlier, other physical exam findings may aid in evaluating cholecystitis. These include fever, elevated heart rate, signs of dehydration, and the presence of Murphy's sign. These additional findings, when combined with the overall clinical presentation, can contribute to a more accurate diagnosis of cholecystitis.
Why is ruling out other conditions important in the physical exam for cholecystitis?
Cholecystitis shares symptoms with other conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues or peptic ulcer disease. Therefore, ruling out these alternative diagnoses is essential to ensure an accurate cholecystitis diagnosis. Through a comprehensive physical exam, healthcare providers can differentiate cholecystitis from other potential causes of right upper quadrant pain and abdominal symptoms.
How does diagnostic imaging supplement the physical exam in diagnosing cholecystitis?
Diagnostic imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or CT scan, are often used to supplement the findings from the physical exam in confirming the diagnosis of cholecystitis. These imaging modalities can provide detailed visualization of the gallbladder, helping to identify gallstones, inflammation, or other abnormalities that may not be apparent during the physical exam alone.
How is the cholecystitis physical exam applied in a clinical setting at Acibadem Healthcare Group?
At Acibadem Healthcare Group, the cholecystitis physical exam is performed by experienced healthcare providers who follow a standardized approach to evaluate patients suspected of having cholecystitis. This comprehensive evaluation involves assessing symptoms, conducting a thorough gallbladder examination, and utilizing appropriate diagnostic imaging techniques to provide accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.