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Dilated Cbd

A dilated common bile duct can cause pain, jaundice and digestive issues requiring evaluation. In Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs offers expert diagnosis, advanced imaging and minimally invasive treatments to restore bile flow, relieve symptoms and improve overall health.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

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 obstructing the bile duct
Changes after gallbladder removal (post-cholecystectomy)
Infection or inflammation (e.g., cholangitis)
Tumors, strictures or scar tissue in the duct
Age-related dilation of the bile duct
Congenital variations in bile duct anatomy

Signs and Symptoms

Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Dark urine with pale or clay-colored stools
Itchy skin (pruritus)
Nausea, vomiting or unexplained weight loss

Expert Treatment for Dilated Cbd by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your history of epigastric pain, gallbladder surgery, alcohol use, and any prior biliary issues. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, palpable gallbladder, or jaundice.

Blood Tests

Laboratory studies include:

Comprehensive liver panel (AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase)
Total and direct bilirubin levels
Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) to rule out pancreatitis
CBC and inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP) if infection is suspected

Imaging Studies

Right upper quadrant ultrasound to assess duct diameter, gallstones, and bile duct dilation
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) for a non-invasive, detailed view of the biliary tree

Advanced Endoscopic Evaluation (if indicated)

If imaging suggests obstruction or if therapeutic intervention is needed, Dr. Pothuri performs:

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) to directly visualize, sample, and relieve blockages
EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound) for high-resolution images of the bile ducts and surrounding structures

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for a dilated common bile duct.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

Eat low-fat meals to reduce stress on the bile system
Have smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestion
Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Maintain a healthy weight to lower your risk of gallstones

2. Medications

Ursodiol to help dissolve certain types of gallstones
Antibiotics if an infection like cholangitis is present
Pain relievers to manage abdominal discomfort

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

ERCP to open the duct and place a stent when needed
EUS-guided drainage for difficult or complex blockages
Surgical referral if stones or strictures cannot be managed endoscopically

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

443

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 443 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

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 causes a dilated common bile duct?

Obstruction from stones, strictures, tumors, or pancreatitis can widen the duct.

What symptoms might I have?

Jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, itching, and right-upper-quadrant pain.

How is it diagnosed?

Ultrasound, MRCP, or ERCP visualize the duct and locate blockages.

What treatments are used?

Endoscopic stone extraction, stent placement, or surgery to relieve obstruction.

Is a dilated CBD serious?

Yes-if untreated, it can lead to cholangitis or biliary cirrhosis.

When is urgent care needed?

Seek immediate help for fever, chills, severe pain, or rapidly worsening jaundice.

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