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Dilated Cbd

Discover expert diagnosis and treatment for dilated common bile duct (CBD) at GastroDoxs in Houston with board-certified Dr. Rishi Chadha. From advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures to personalized care plans, our team ensures effective relief, guidance and digestive health.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Gallstones or tumors blocking the duct
  • Swelling after gallbladder removal (post-cholecystectomy)
  • Scarring or narrowing of the bile duct (strictures)
  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis)
  • Age over 60
  • Previous bile duct surgeries or endoscopic procedures (e.g., ERCP)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Dark-colored urine and pale stools
  • Pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
  • Itchy skin
  • Fever or unexplained weight loss

How Dr. Rishi Diagnoses Dilated Cbd?

Dr. Rishi Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your health history, any previous gallbladder or bile duct issues, risk factors, and current symptoms such as pain, jaundice, or itching.

Blood Tests

We check liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), bilirubin levels, and inflammatory markers to assess liver function and rule out other causes.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound evaluates bile duct diameter and looks for gallstones or masses.
  • MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) provides detailed, noninvasive imaging of the biliary tree.

Advanced Diagnostics (if needed)

When further detail is required, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) or ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) can directly visualize the ducts, allow stone extraction or stent placement, and obtain tissue samples.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for a dilated common bile duct (CBD).

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat smaller, low-fat meals to ease bile flow
  • Stay hydrated with 8�10 glasses of water daily
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine to reduce duct irritation
  • Maintain a healthy weight through regular activity

2. Medications

  • Ursodeoxycholic acid to support bile movement
  • Antibiotics if there's an infection (cholangitis)
  • Pain relievers to manage discomfort

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • ERCP with stent placement to open and maintain bile flow
  • EUS-guided drainage for precise treatment of strictures
  • Laparoscopic surgery for complex or long-term blockages
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a dilated CBD feel like?

Pain or fullness in the upper right belly, nausea, and sometimes jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Is it the same as cholangitis?

No. A dilated CBD simply means the duct is widened. Cholangitis is an infection of the bile duct.

Can it heal on its own?

Mild cases may improve with diet and lifestyle changes, but most patients require medical evaluation and treatment.

Is ERCP a safe test?

Yes. ERCP is performed under sedation and is generally low risk when done by an experienced specialist.

Will I need surgery?

Only if less invasive treatments fail or if there's a tumor or persistent blockage that requires surgical removal.

How fast does treatment work?

Many patients feel symptom relief within days of stent placement. Complete healing times vary by individual.

Is ERCP or EUS covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover these procedures. Our team can help verify your benefits and obtain approvals.

How does the pancreas relate to the CBD?

The bile duct and pancreatic duct share a common exit into the intestines, so a blockage can affect both systems.

Can this problem come back?

Yes. Scar tissue, strictures, or new stones may recur. Regular follow-up imaging and exams help prevent complications.

What is the ICD-10 code for a dilated CBD?

The ICD-10 code for bile duct dilation is K83.1.

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