1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Dilated Cbd
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Nghia Nguyen specializes in diagnosing and treating dilated common bile ducts (CBD). Utilizing advanced imaging, endoscopy, tailored therapies and invasive procedures, he helps patients identify underlying causes—like gallstones or strictures—and restores bile flow for relief.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones stuck in the bile duct
Scar tissue from prior gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy)
Tumors in the bile duct or pancreas
Chronic inflammation or infection of the biliary tract
Age over 60 years
History of liver disease
Signs and Symptoms
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dark-colored urine or pale, clay-colored stools
Pain, pressure, or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
Itchy skin (pruritus)
Fever or chills without another clear cause
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Dilated CBD?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your prior gallbladder surgery, liver‐disease history, alcohol use, and key symptoms such as jaundice and epigastric pain.
Blood Tests
We assess liver function with ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, and total bilirubin, and check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to measure CBD diameter, detect gallstones, and assess ductal dilation.
CT scan for detailed visualization of the biliary tract and surrounding organs.
MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) to noninvasively map the bile ducts.
Endoscopic Evaluation (if needed)
ERCP or endoscopic ultrasound can be performed to directly visualize blockages, extract stones, place stents, or obtain tissue samples.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for dilated common bile duct (CBD) conditions.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat a low-fat diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Avoid greasy or fried foods to reduce bile duct strain
Stay well-hydrated with water and clear fluids
Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise
2. Medications
Bile acid binders to relieve itching
Pain relievers for abdominal discomfort
Antibiotics if infection is present
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to remove blockages
Stent placement to keep the bile duct open
Laparoscopic surgery to remove scar tissue through small incisions
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ICD-10 code is used for a dilated CBD?
Most cases are coded as K83.8 for other specified diseases of the biliary tract, though your provider will confirm the exact code based on your situation.
Can gallstones cause a dilated CBD?
Yes. Gallstones are one of the most common reasons the bile duct widens and often lead to blockages that require removal.
When should I schedule an appointment?
If you notice jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), upper right-side abdominal pain, dark urine, or unexplained fever, contact our office right away.
Does ERCP hurt?
No. ERCP is performed under sedation, so most patients feel little to no discomfort during the procedure.
Can diet changes treat a dilated CBD?
While a low-fat diet and adequate hydration can help ease symptoms, most patients need diagnostic testing and possibly procedures to address the root cause.
What is recovery like after stent placement?
Most patients go home the same day and resume normal activities within 1-2 days, experiencing rapid relief of symptoms.
