CBD Stones
CBD stones, also known as common bile duct stones or choledocholithiasis, are stones that are present in the common bile duct. They can obstruct the normal flow of bile and may lead to pain, jaundice, infection, or inflammation of the pancreas.
What Are CBD Stones?
The common bile duct carries bile from the liver and gallbladder into the small intestine. A CBD stone may form in the bile duct or migrate from the gallbladder into it. When the stone blocks the duct, bile flow can become restricted and complications may develop.
Common Symptoms
- Upper abdominal or right-sided abdominal pain
- Pain that may occur after meals
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Dark-coloured urine
- Light or pale-coloured stools
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever or chills if infection develops
- Itching associated with bile obstruction
Causes & Risk Factors
CBD stones commonly develop when gallstones from the gallbladder migrate into the common bile duct. Factors associated with gallstone formation, including obesity, rapid weight changes, increasing age, diabetes, and certain metabolic conditions, may increase the risk.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis may involve blood tests to assess liver and bile duct function along with abdominal ultrasound. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), or other investigations may be recommended when required. ERCP is an important therapeutic procedure that can be used to access the bile duct and remove stones when intervention is indicated.
Endoscopic Treatment
ERCP allows the gastroenterologist to access the common bile duct using an endoscope and remove stones through the natural digestive tract. Depending on the size and location of the stone, techniques such as sphincterotomy, balloon extraction, or other endoscopic methods may be used. In selected cases, temporary stenting may be required to maintain bile drainage.
When to See a Doctor?
Abdominal pain accompanied by jaundice, fever, chills, dark urine, or vomiting may indicate bile duct obstruction or infection and requires prompt medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications such as cholangitis or pancreatitis.
Final Thoughts
CBD stones can obstruct bile flow and may lead to serious complications if left untreated. Timely evaluation by a gastroenterologist and appropriate endoscopic management, including ERCP when indicated, can help safely restore bile drainage and treat the obstruction.