Choledocholithiasis occurs when gallstones become lodged in the common bile duct, blocking the normal flow of bile. This blockage can lead to abdominal pain, infection, and even affect the pancreas. At GastroDoxs in Cypress, we explain your condition in simple terms and provide fast, effective treatment to help you feel better.
Symptoms of choledocholithiasis often start suddenly and may come and go. You may notice:
Choledocholithiasis happens when gallstones form in the gallbladder and then migrate into the common bile duct. Several factors increase your risk:
In some cases, a stone can also block the pancreatic duct, leading to acute pancreatitis that requires prompt treatment.
At GastroDoxs in Cypress, we combine advanced diagnostics-such as ERCP, MRCP, and ultrasound-with personalized, compassionate care to diagnose and treat choledocholithiasis quickly and safely. Our expert team takes the time to explain your ICD-10 codes, review your treatment options, and create a plan designed to relieve pain, clear bile duct stones, and prevent future episodes. Don't wait for complications-book your appointment today and get back to feeling your best.
We've successfully treated more than 265 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, often due to stones lodged there. Choledocholithiasis refers specifically to gallstones that have moved into and block the common bile duct.
ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) is indicated when imaging or labs confirm a bile duct stone and you have symptoms such as biliary pain, jaundice, or fever, or if there's evidence of ductal obstruction or infection.
Yes, stones can recur in the bile duct. Removing the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) after ERCP significantly lowers the chance of new stones forming in the future.
A low-fat, high-fiber diet along with adequate hydration can reduce bile cholesterol saturation and help prevent gallstone formation, thereby lowering the risk of stones entering the bile duct.
If left untreated, bile duct stones can lead to serious complications such as cholangitis (infection of the bile ducts) or acute pancreatitis, both of which require urgent medical care.
Most patients recover quickly, often going home the same day or after an overnight stay. You may experience mild abdominal discomfort or sore throat, but serious complications are uncommon.
Family history of gallstones can increase your risk of developing bile duct stones, but diet, weight changes, and other health factors also play significant roles.
Yes, if there's an associated infection such as cholangitis. Your physician will select the appropriate antibiotic based on the severity and likely bacteria involved.
Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like abdominal ultrasound or MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography). ERCP may be used both to confirm the diagnosis and to remove the stone.
For most cases of choledocholithiasis, use K80.5. If the case is unspecified, use K80.50. If accompanied by acute cholecystitis, additional codes like K81.1 may apply.
