Q. A 45-year-old man presents to the emergency department with intense right upper quadrant pain, which started suddenly after eating a fatty meal. The pain radiates to the right shoulder and is associated with nausea and vomiting. He also reports experiencing similar but less severe episodes over the past six months, usually post meals. He denies any changes in bowel movements or urine color. He has no known medical allergies and is not on any medications. On physical examination, he appears distressed due to pain. His vital signs show Blood pressure of 120/80 mmHg, pulse rate of 90 bpm, respiratory rate of 20 breaths per minute, temperature of 100.2°F (37.9°C), and oxygen saturation of 98% on room air. The abdominal examination reveals tenderness in the right upper quadrant with a positive Murphy's sign. The rest of the examination is unremarkable. Laboratory findings show a white blood cell count of 13,000 per microliter, with neutrophil predominance. Liver function tests are largely within normal limits, though alkaline phosphatase is slightly elevated to 120 U/L. His lipid profile, renal function, and electrolytes are normal. An abdomen ultrasound shows gallstones with a thickened gallbladder wall and pericholecystic fluid. What is the most appropriate next step in management?