1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Obstruction Of Bile Duct
Struggling with bile duct blockage? At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating obstructions using advanced imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and personalized care. From gallstone removal to stent placement, our experienced team restores your health and comfort.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is an Obstruction of the Bile Duct?
Obstruction of the bile duct occurs when the flow of bile from the liver to the small intestine is blocked. This blockage can be caused by gallstones, tumors, inflammation, scarring, or strictures. When bile cannot flow properly, it backs up into the liver, leading to symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, itching, and abdominal pain. Left untreated, it may result in serious complications like infections (cholangitis) or liver damage. Diagnosis often involves imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRCP, or ERCP. Treatment depends on the cause and may include endoscopic procedures, surgery, or stent placement to restore bile flow.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones lodged in the common bile duct
Scar tissue from prior surgery or injury
Tumors of the pancreas or bile ducts
Inflammation of the bile ducts (cholangiitis)
Parasitic infection (rare in Houston)
Family history of bile duct disease or liver disorders
Age over 50 and certain chronic liver conditions
Signs and Symptoms
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dark urine and pale, clay-colored stools
Itching (pruritus) all over the body
Pain or fullness in the upper right abdomen
Unexplained weight loss, fever, or chills
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your health history, asks about epigastric or right-upper-quadrant pain, jaundice, weight changes, prior surgeries and other risk factors such as gallstones or liver disease.
Blood Tests
We measure liver enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), total and direct bilirubin, and inflammatory markers to detect bile flow interruption and rule out other liver conditions.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound to look for ductal dilation, gallstones and liver echotexture changes.
CT scan or MRI for cross-sectional views of the bile ducts, pancreas and surrounding structures.
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) for detailed, non-invasive mapping of the biliary tree.
Endoscopic and Advanced Testing (If Needed)
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) allows direct visualization, biopsy and stent placement to relieve obstruction. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can further characterize strictures or tumors.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for obstruction of the bile duct.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat small, low-fat meals
Avoid fried and greasy foods
Stay hydrated with water
Maintain a healthy weight
Limit alcohol and tobacco use
2. Medications
Ursodeoxycholic acid to dissolve small gallstones
Antibiotics for infections
Pain relief under Dr Scott's guidance
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP with stent placement to open blocked ducts
Laparoscopic surgery to remove gallstones or scar tissue
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) for precise imaging and biopsy
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a bile duct obstruction?
Gallstones, tumors, scar tissue from surgery or injury, and inflammation (cholangiitis) are the most common culprits.
What are the early signs of bile duct obstruction?
Look for jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, itching, and right upper abdominal discomfort.
How is obstruction of bile duct coded in ICD-10?
This condition is classified under code K83.1 in the ICD-10 system.
Is ERCP safe?
Yes. ERCP is a well-established procedure with low complication rates when performed by experienced endoscopists like Dr. Scott.
Can diet and lifestyle changes help relieve symptoms?
Absolutely. A low-fat diet, small frequent meals, adequate hydration, and weight management can ease digestive stress and support recovery.
When should I see a doctor in Houston?
Schedule an evaluation if you notice persistent jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, or upper abdominal pain lasting more than a day.
