A 62-year-old man with diabetes and hypertension presents with severe right upper quadrant pain, fever (39.2°C), and hypotension (BP 92/58 mmHg). Examination reveals guarding and rebound tenderness. Ultrasound shows a large stone impacted in the gallbladder neck, a thickened gallbladder wall (8 mm), and free fluid in the peritoneal cavity. WBC 18,000/μL. What is the most appropriate immediate next step?

See the options, answer & explanation

Sign in free to reveal the answer choices, the correct answer, the detailed explanation, and AI-powered insights for this question.