Patients with acute cholecystitis typically require which surgical procedure?

Patients diagnosed with acute cholecystitis usually require a cholecystectomy, which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. This procedure is indicated because acute cholecystitis is primarily caused by the obstruction of the cystic duct, often due to gallstones. The inflammation of the gallbladder not only leads to pain and discomfort but also poses serious risks, such as infection or perforation if left untreated.

A cholecystectomy is performed to address the underlying issue—removing the inflamed gallbladder relieves symptoms and prevents complications. While laparoscopic techniques are commonly employed for this surgery due to benefits such as reduced recovery time and less postoperative pain, the term "cholecystectomy" encompasses both open and laparoscopic surgical approaches. Therefore, even though laparoscopic surgery may be the preferred method, the fundamental procedure required for managing acute cholecystitis remains cholecystectomy.

The other surgical options listed are not relevant to acute cholecystitis: an appendectomy is performed for appendicitis, and a colonoscopy is a diagnostic procedure for examining the colon, while neither directly addresses the issues associated with the gallbladder.