CBD Stone Removal

CBD Stone Removal (Common Bile Duct Stone Removal)

CBD stone removal is a medical procedure used to remove gallstones or bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis) from the common bile duct (CBD). These stones can block the flow of bile from the liver to the intestine, leading to symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, and infection (cholangitis). Removal of these stones helps restore normal bile drainage and prevent serious complications.


Why is CBD Stone Removal Needed?

CBD stones can form due to:

  • Gallbladder stones (Cholelithiasis) that migrate into the bile duct.

  • Primary bile duct stones forming within the CBD due to bile stasis or infection.

  • Biliary strictures or narrowing that causes bile to accumulate and form stones.

  • Post-cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) complications, leading to retained or recurrent stones.

Methods of CBD Stone Removal

  1. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

    • A minimally invasive technique using a flexible endoscope inserted through the mouth.

    • A small incision (sphincterotomy) is made in the bile duct opening to allow stone removal.

    • Stone extraction tools (balloon catheters or baskets) are used to pull out the stones.

  2. Laser or Mechanical Lithotripsy (For Large Stones)

    • If the stones are too large, shock waves or laser energy are used to break them into smaller pieces before removal.

  3. Percutaneous Transhepatic Cholangiography (PTC) (Alternative to ERCP)

    • A needle is inserted through the skin into the bile duct to remove stones in complex cases.

  4. Surgical Removal (Choledochotomy)

    • Open or laparoscopic surgery may be required if endoscopic methods fail, particularly for multiple or large stones.

Benefits of CBD Stone Removal

  • Restores normal bile flow, preventing jaundice and liver damage.

  • Relieves symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and fever.

  • Prevents complications like cholangitis and pancreatitis.

  • Minimally invasive options (ERCP) allow for quick recovery.

Possible Risks and Side Effects

  • Mild sore throat after ERCP.

  • Temporary abdominal discomfort or bloating.

  • Infection (cholangitis) or bile duct injury (rare).

  • Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

Post-Treatment Care

  • Eat a light diet initially and stay hydrated.

  • Monitor for signs of infection (fever, chills, worsening pain).

  • Follow up with a doctor to check for residual or recurrent stones.

CBD stone removal is a safe and effective procedure that prevents serious bile duct complications and improves digestion and liver function.

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