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Choledocholithiasis

Choledocholithiasis occurs when gallstones lodge in the bile duct, causing pain, jaundice and possible infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers expert care using diagnostic and minimally invasive techniques.

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Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Gallstones formed in the gallbladder that move into the bile duct
  • Female gender over age 40
  • Overweight status or rapid weight loss
  • Diets high in fat and low in fiber
  • Pregnancy or use of estrogen-based hormone therapy
  • Family history of gallbladder or bile duct stones
  • Dehydration-more common in hot climates like Houston

Signs and Symptoms

  • Severe or cramping pain in the upper right abdomen
  • Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
  • Fever and chills, suggesting possible infection
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools

Expert Treatment for Choledocholithiasis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He evaluates your pattern of epigastric pain-onset, severity, triggers (like fatty meals)-and reviews any prior gallstone or biliary issues.

Blood Tests

We check liver function tests (ALT, AST, ALP), total and direct bilirubin, plus pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) to assess for cholestasis or pancreatitis.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to look for common bile duct dilation and visible stones.
  • MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) for a noninvasive, high-resolution view of the bile ducts.
  • Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) when tiny or impacted stones evade detection on other scans.

ERCP Diagnostic and Therapeutic

When imaging confirms stones, ERCP allows Dr. Pothuri to directly visualize the bile duct and remove lodged stones in the same procedure.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In rare or complex cases, peroral cholangioscopy or intraoperative cholangiography may be used to pinpoint hard-to-find stones or assess duct anatomy precisely.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for choledocholithiasis.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals
  • Choose foods high in fiber and low in unhealthy fats
  • Drink plenty of water, especially in hot weather
  • Stay active and maintain a healthy weight

2. Medications

  • Bile acid pills to dissolve small bile duct stones
  • Pain relievers and anti-nausea medications for symptom relief
  • Antibiotics if an infection is present

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to locate and remove stones
  • Shock wave therapy (lithotripsy) to break up hard stones
  • Laparoscopic gallbladder removal for recurrent stone prevention
265

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 265 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for choledocholithiasis?

K80.5 is used to classify bile duct stones without infection.

Can bile duct stones cause pancreatitis?

Yes. If a stone blocks the pancreatic duct, it can trigger inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).

Who is at risk for choledocholithiasis?

Risk factors include existing gallstones, being female over 40, rapid weight loss or obesity, high-fat/low-fiber diet, hormone therapy or pregnancy, and family history of gallbladder disease.

Is ERCP safe?

Yes. Dr. Pothuri uses the latest ERCP techniques and equipment to minimize risks and maximize stone removal success.

How soon will I feel better after treatment?

Many patients notice symptom relief within a few days. Full recovery generally takes one to two weeks, depending on the procedure.

Do I always need gallbladder surgery?

Not always. If stones recur or gallbladder disease is present, laparoscopic removal may be recommended to prevent future episodes.

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