Bile duct stones
Also known as choledocholithiasis
Bile duct stones are gallstones that can sometimes block the common bile duct
What is a bile duct?
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of bile duct stones? icon plus
Usually, bile duct stones pass on their own. If they get stuck, they can cause the following symptoms:
- severe abdominal pain (known as biliary colic)
- jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
- fever (high temperature)
- pale-coloured faeces
- nausea and vomiting
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How are bile duct stones diagnosed? icon plus
Your HCA UK or Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary (HPB) consultant will start by discussing your symptoms with you. They may recommend a renal ultrasound. Carried out by one of our specialist radiology consultants, a renal ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your liver, gallbladder and bile duct. It's the most effective way of detecting gallstones and bile duct stones. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Normally, bile duct stones only require treatment if they're causing symptoms like severe abdominal pain or jaundice. If you need treatment, your options might include:
- sphincterotomy (surgery to cut into the bile duct to remove the stones or make it easier for them to pass)
- cholecystectomy (surgery to remove your gallbladder and stones)
- lithotripsy (laser treatment to break up the stones)
Our consultants
Our locations
From complex liver and gastric surgery to diagnostic tests and procedures, we provide exceptional gastrointestinal care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Liver & HPB Unit
The Wellington Liver & HPB Unit
North Building, Circus Road, St John's Wood
London NW8 6DP
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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The Wellington Digestive Health Centre
21 Wellington Road
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
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The HPB Unit
The Princess Grace Hospital
42–52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Digestion
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344