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Obstruction Of Bile Duct
Obstruction of the bile duct occurs when bile flow from the liver and gallbladder to the intestine is blocked. This interruption can cause jaundice, upper abdominal pain, itching, or discomfort. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent complications and restore bile flow.
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 - Hard deposits that can get stuck in the bile duct
Tumors - Growths near the liver or pancreas (benign or malignant)
Scarring (Strictures) - Narrowing after surgery or inflammation
Infections - Bacterial or parasitic infections causing swelling
Chronic Pancreatitis - Long-term inflammation of the pancreas
Family History - Genetic predisposition to gallstones or duct problems
Signs and Symptoms
Jaundice - Yellowing of the skin and eyes
Dark urine and pale stools
Itchy skin
Pain or pressure in the upper right abdomen
Nausea or vomiting
Fever or chills (if an infection is present)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptom of epigastric pain, any jaundice or itching, past gallbladder issues, surgeries and other risk factors.
Blood Tests
He orders liver function tests (bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, GGT) to confirm cholestasis and rule out other liver injuries.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal Ultrasound - A painless scan to look for gallstones and biliary dilation.
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) - A noninvasive, high-resolution view of your bile ducts.
Endoscopic Evaluation
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) - Direct visualization of the ducts with the option to remove stones or place a stent.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Cholangioscopy lets Dr. Nguyen inspect the duct lining up close and take biopsies if a tumor is suspected.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for bile duct obstruction.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Low-fat diet to reduce strain on your gallbladder
Plenty of fluids to keep bile flowing smoothly
Regular exercise to help prevent gallstone formation
2. Medications
Ursodeoxycholic acid to dissolve small gallstones
Antibiotics if there's an infection
Pain relievers to manage discomfort during recovery
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP with stent placement to reopen blocked ducts
Balloon dilation to expand narrowed bile ducts
Laparoscopic surgery to remove stones or scar tissue
Cholangioscopy for direct visualization and targeted treatment
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 are the first signs of a bile duct blockage?
Jaundice, itching, dark urine, and pain in the upper right belly are common early signs.
How long does it take to recover after ERCP?
Most people go home the same day and feel better in a few days.
Can diet prevent bile duct problems?
A low-fat diet helps lower risk but doesn't guarantee prevention.
Is the ICD-10 code K83.1 important for my records?
Yes. It helps your care team and insurance manage your treatment properly.
Are there any risks after treatment?
Some people may get mild pancreatitis after ERCP. Dr. Nguyen watches closely to reduce risk.
How do I know if I need surgery?
Surgery may be needed if blockages can't be cleared with medicine or ERCP.
Do you see patients from all over Houston?
Yes! We welcome patients from Downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Katy, and nearby areas.
