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General Surgery

Acute Ascending Cholangitis

ICD-10 Code
K83.01

Surgical Criteria for Acute Ascending Cholangitis.

Clinical Presentation & Protocol

Patient Usually Complains Of

Patient presents with classic Charcotโ€™s triad: RUQ abdominal pain, fever/chills, and jaundice. Onset of symptoms is [Timeframe], progressive in nature. Associated symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and dark-colored urine. History significant for [Choledocholithiasis/Biliary stent/Recent ERCP]. Denies chest pain or dyspnea.

Clinical Examination Findings

Vitals: Febrile (T: [Temp]), Tachycardic (HR: [Rate]), Hypotensive (BP: [BP]). General: Patient appears toxic, jaundiced, and in acute distress. Abdomen: RUQ tenderness with guarding; Murphyโ€™s sign [Positive/Negative]. No rebound tenderness or rigidity. Scleral icterus present.

Treatment Protocol

1. Admit to [ICU/Ward]. 2. NPO status. 3. Aggressive IV fluid resuscitation. 4. Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics (e.g., Piperacillin/Tazobactam or Ceftriaxone + Metronidazole). 5. Urgent biliary decompression via ERCP as indicated. 6. Monitor urine output and serial CBC/LFTs.

Detailed clinical guide coming soon.