What does a dilated CBD mean on my scan?
A dilated common bile duct (CBD) means the duct that carries bile from your liver and gallbladder to the small intestine is wider than normal, often due to a blockage, inflammation, or other underlying issue.
What is CBD dilation?
CBD dilation is the medical term for an enlarged common bile duct. It indicates that the duct's diameter exceeds the normal range (usually over 6 mm).
What is a dilated CBD?
A dilated CBD refers to a common bile duct with a diameter larger than normal-typically greater than 6 mm on imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scan.
What do symptoms of a dilated CBD look like?
When symptoms occur, they may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), dark urine, pale stools, upper right abdominal pain, itching, or unexplained weight loss.
Is "CBD mildly dilated" serious?
Mild dilation often warrants monitoring and possibly mild treatment, depending on the underlying cause (e.g., tiny stones or mild inflammation) but may not require urgent intervention.
How do doctors detect CBD dilation?
Doctors use imaging tests such as abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI/MRCP to measure the common bile duct's diameter and identify any blockages or abnormalities.
What is the "CBD dilation" medical abbreviation?
On medical reports, you might see abbreviations like "CBD dil." or "CBD DIL" indicating common bile duct dilation.
What is the ICD-10 code for dilated CBD?
The ICD-10 code most commonly used for biliary tract dilation or obstruction, including dilated CBD, is K83.1 (other cholangitis and biliary tract disorders).
Can a dilated CBD return to normal size?
Yes. Once the underlying cause-such as gallstones, strictures, or inflammation-is treated or removed, the duct often shrinks back to its normal diameter.
Do I need a CT scan for a dilated CBD?
A CT scan may be ordered if an ultrasound is inconclusive or to get detailed images for treatment planning, such as identifying the exact location and cause of the obstruction.
Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG
| Updated 03-17-2026