Bile Duct Stone Removal

Advanced Endoscopic Treatment for Bile Duct Stones

What is Bile Duct Stone Removal?

Bile duct stones, also known as choledocholithiasis, are hardened deposits that form in the bile ducts, obstructing the flow of bile from the liver to the small intestine. These stones can cause severe pain, infection, and complications if untreated. Bile Duct Stone Removal is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure to locate and remove these stones safely and effectively.

At Central Gastro, our expert gastroenterologists use advanced techniques, including Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), to remove bile duct stones and restore normal bile flow.

What Causes Bile Duct Stones?

Bile duct stones are typically formed when gallstones migrate from the gallbladder into the bile ducts. Common risk factors include:

• Gallstones: Stones originating in the gallbladder.
• Bile Stasis: Reduced bile flow due to infections or obstructions.
• Post-Cholecystectomy: Stones forming after gallbladder removal.
• Liver or Bile Duct Disorders: Conditions like biliary strictures or infections.

Symptoms of Bile Duct Stones

Bile duct stones may cause the following symptoms:

• Severe upper abdominal pain (often radiating to the back or shoulder)
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Dark urine and pale stools
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills (indicative of infection)

If left untreated, bile duct stones can lead to serious complications like cholangitis (infection of the bile ducts) or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

How Are Bile Duct Stones Removed?

The most effective method for bile duct stone removal is Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure.

Steps of the Procedure:

1. Preparation
   • You will be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
   • Sedation or anesthesia is provided to ensure comfort.
2. Procedure
   • A thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is passed through the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and into the small intestine to access the bile duct.
   • A contrast dye is injected to highlight the bile ducts on X-rays for precise visualization of stones.
   • Specialized tools are used to: 
     • Remove Stones: Capture and extract stones with balloon catheters or wire snares.
     • Widen Narrow Ducts: A small incision (sphincterotomy) may be made to allow stone passage.
     • Place Stents: If necessary, stents may be inserted to improve bile flow.
3. Recovery
   • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes.
   • After a short monitoring period, most patients can go home the same day.

Benefits of Bile Duct Stone Removal 

• Minimally Invasive: No external incisions; performed endoscopically.
• Quick Recovery: Short procedure time with minimal discomfort and downtime.
• Immediate Relief: Fast resolution of symptoms like pain, jaundice, and nausea.
• Prevent Complications: Reduces the risk of infections and pancreatitis.

Who is a Candidate for Bile Duct Stone Removal?

You may need bile duct stone removal if you experience:

• Persistent upper abdominal pain
• Jaundice or abnormal liver function tests
• Evidence of bile duct obstruction on imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans)
• A history of gallstones with recurrent symptoms

Our specialists at Central Gastro will conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for your condition.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• You may experience mild throat soreness, which resolves quickly.
• Most patients resume normal activities within 24 hours.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor bile duct function and ensure no further issues.

If bile duct stones are associated with gallbladder disease, additional treatments such as cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) may be discussed.