I was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis in August and was sent for a HIDA Scan. Result was an ejection fraction of 9% at 30 minutes post sincalide, consistent with dysfunctional gallbladder and chronic cholecystitis. I was referred to a surgeon for removal of gallbladder. The surgeon ordered an ultrasound and found distended gallbladder with no stones. He advised against removal of gallbladder and ordered an endoscopic ultrasound which was performed two days ago. The results were normal, but now they want to follow-up with an MRI in 3 months. I am absolutely a non-drinker , but my diet is not great. Also, I have iron deficiency anemia and my blood glucose level is somewhat elevated. I am on the brink of type 2 diabetes. My primary care doc feels very strongly that the gallbladder should be removed, and I am very confused. The surgeon doesn't respect the HIDA Scan. He claims the test is unreliable because it can change on a daily basis. Is this true? Two of my three daughters have had their gallbladders removed. The oldest daughter had acute pancreatitis and had several ultrasounds, none of which showed stones, but did suggest sludge. She became very ill during her pregnancy and had to have gallbladder removed at 18 weeks pregnant. The second daughter had a somewhat different situation, and was found to have a non-functioning gallbladder, which was removed. Both daughters were seen by Cleveland Clinic surgeons, as was I. I truly don't know who to believe, and the surgeon I consulted does not like to be questioned about his decisions. He has an excellent reputation, so I should probably follow his advice, but I don't want pancreatitis again. It was very painful and I was very sick for four days before I went to the ER. Couldn't take a deep breath or swallow without pain in the right upper abdomen and left lower back. Also had fever. Apparently the pancreatitis was in the tail of the pancreas. Help?