Choledocholithiasis occurs when gallstones move out of the gallbladder and into the common bile duct. This duct carries bile from your liver and gallbladder to your small intestine to aid digestion. If a stone lodges in the duct, bile can't flow properly, causing pain and raising the risk of infection, inflammation or jaundice.
Symptoms of choledocholithiasis may overlap with gallbladder pain but tend to be more severe and persistent. Look for:
Choledocholithiasis most often results from gallstones formed in the gallbladder that travel into the bile duct. Other factors that can block bile flow include:
At GastroDoxs in Katy, we combine state-of-the-art diagnostics like ERCP and MRCP with a compassionate, patient-centered approach to treat choledocholithiasis effectively. Our experienced team manages everything from personalized care plans to insurance and ICD-10 coding, so you can focus on healing. Don't wait to get relief-book your appointment online or call us today to take the first step toward better digestive health.
We've successfully treated more than 265 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.
ERCP or MRCP imaging tests visualize stones in the bile duct. We may also use ultrasound, CT scans, and blood tests to check bilirubin levels and signs of infection.
Small stones sometimes pass into the intestine without treatment, but most patients require ERCP or surgery to safely remove the obstruction and prevent complications.
Biliary colic causes brief, intermittent pain without jaundice. Choledocholithiasis pain is longer lasting, often accompanied by jaundice, dark urine, light stools, or fever indicating duct obstruction.
Not always. Many patients are treated successfully with ERCP alone. In some cases, gallbladder removal is recommended to prevent future stones.
Untreated stones can lead to cholangitis (bile duct infection), pancreatitis, liver damage, sepsis, and severe pain requiring emergency care.
If you experience persistent upper abdominal pain, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), dark urine, pale stools, fever, or chills, you should see a doctor immediately.
Maintain a healthy diet, avoid rapid weight loss, stay hydrated, and manage cholesterol levels. Regular meals and moderate fat intake may also reduce stone formation.
Yes, most insurance plans cover ERCP for choledocholithiasis. We handle the ICD-10 coding (K80.5) and assist with insurance approvals and billing.
Most patients go home the same day after ERCP with minimal discomfort. After gallbladder removal, recovery takes a few days to weeks with gradual return to normal activities.
Choledocholithiasis in children is rare but can occur due to genetic factors, hemolytic diseases, or biliary tract anomalies. Diagnosis and treatment follow similar protocols to adults.
