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Obstruction Of Bile Duct

Experiencing upper abdominal pain, jaundice or digestive issues? Bile duct obstruction disrupts bile flow, causing discomfort and serious complications. At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Bharat Pothuri uses the latest diagnostics and minimally invasive treatments to restore your 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 blocking the bile duct
Tumors in the bile duct or pancreas
Scar tissue (strictures) after surgery, injury, or inflammation
Infections or parasites (rare in the U.S.)
Age over 50
Obesity
Existing liver or pancreas disease
Family history of bile duct problems

Signs and Symptoms

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dark-colored urine
Pale, clay-colored stools
Pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
Itchy skin
Fever, chills, nausea, or vomiting

Expert Treatment for Obstruction of Bile Duct by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptoms-onset, location, and quality of epigastric pain-along with any jaundice, prior gallstone attacks, weight changes, alcohol use, and family history of biliary disease.

Blood Tests

Comprehensive labs include liver function tests (ALP, ALT, AST, total and direct bilirubin), pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and inflammatory markers to confirm obstruction and rule out other causes of abdominal pain.

Imaging Studies

Abdominal Ultrasound-First-line to detect gallstones, biliary dilation and sludge in the bile ducts.
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)-Noninvasive MRI that provides high-resolution images of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)-Ideal for identifying small stones, strictures or masses compressing the bile duct.

Endoscopic Assessment & Treatment

ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is performed when imaging confirms a blockage. It both visualizes the exact site of obstruction and allows immediate intervention-stone extraction, sphincterotomy or stent placement.

Treatment

Our Team offers comprehensive bile duct obstruction treatment options.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

Choose low-fat meals to reduce stress on your bile ducts
Avoid fried and greasy foods that can worsen blockages
Eat smaller, more frequent meals to aid digestion
Stay well-hydrated to support healthy bile flow

2. Medications

Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen) to manage discomfort
Bile acid pills to help dissolve certain gallstones
Antibiotics when infection is present or to prevent complications

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

ERCP with stent placement to open and maintain the duct
Laparoscopic surgery for gallstone or scar tissue removal
EUS-guided drainage for targeted fluid or bile removal

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

1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K 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's the main cause of bile duct obstruction?

Gallstones are responsible for the majority of cases.

Will I feel better after a stent is placed?

Yes. Most patients experience relief within 1-2 days following stent placement.

Do I need surgery?

Not always. Many obstructions can be treated and relieved via ERCP without open surgery.

How do I prepare for an ERCP?

Do not eat after midnight before your procedure. You may need to stop certain medications as advised by Dr. Pothuri.

Can food choices prevent future blockages?

While a healthy, low-fat diet supports bile flow, it cannot guarantee that blockages won't recur.

Is jaundice always caused by bile duct problems?

No. Jaundice can also result from liver diseases or blood disorders, so proper testing is essential.

Do I need a referral?

Many insurance plans require a referral. Our team can help verify your benefits and obtain any needed authorizations.

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