A dilated common bile duct (CBD) means the tube that carries bile from your liver and gallbladder to your small intestine is wider than normal. In healthy adults, it's usually no more than 6 mm across. Mild widening can be normal after age 60 or if you've had your gallbladder removed, but significant dilation may signal a blockage, infection, or other issue.
Symptoms depend on the underlying cause. You may have no symptoms at all, or you might notice:
Several conditions can lead to dilation of the bile duct:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our dedicated team combines advanced imaging, cutting-edge endoscopic techniques, and personalized care plans to address bile duct concerns no matter how mild or complex. We prioritize clear communication, compassionate support, and evidence-based treatments to help you achieve lasting relief. Call us today at 832-632-4070 or Book Your Appointment Online to take the first step toward better digestive health.
We've successfully treated more than 443 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
A dilated CBD on ultrasound indicates your common bile duct is wider than the normal limit (usually up to 6 mm in adults) and may require further testing to identify any obstruction, stones, or other issues.
Not always. Mild dilation can occur normally after gallbladder removal or with aging. However, significant enlargement may suggest gallstones, strictures, infection, or tumors that need treatment.
Yes. As people age-particularly over 60-the bile duct may naturally widen by a millimeter or two without indicating disease.
Physicians commonly use K83.1 for bile duct obstruction and K83.2 for cholestasis when documenting dilation in medical records.
After gallbladder removal, the bile duct often enlarges slightly to store and transport more bile directly from the liver to the intestine.
Stones are typically removed via ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography), which allows direct visualization, stone extraction, and stent placement if needed.
Sometimes. If the dilation is mild and not due to a serious cause, it may stabilize or even regress with monitoring and management of underlying factors.
There is no difference in meaning. Both phrases simply state that the common bile duct remains within its normal size range.
