enlarged bile duct

[sligokathy]

I had my gallbladder removed in 2001.  Now I am having slight pain and discomfort just below the ribs on the right side.  After a CT scan and a MRI it was determined that I have an enlarged bile duct.  I have been referred to a doctor that does the ERCP to stretch the bile duct.
All of my liver numbers are good and I'm not really in any pain unless I eat a fatty meal. From what I have read on the internet it is not unusual for the common bile duct to become slightly enlarged after gallbladder surgery. So I'm wondering if it is necessary to do this ERCP.  If there was a tumor or cysts these should have shown up on the MRI so if there is no blockage why perform more test or procedures?

[sligokathy]

Thank you for replying.  I'm having the ERCP done on the 23rd. I'll post about how it turns out.

[Paderla Anitha, DNB]

Hi, the test is being done to rule out disorders. The commonest cause for bile duct enlargement are distal obstruction due to a tumor or stricture. The tumor can be at the ampulla of vater and can be missed by CT or MRI. The obstruction can also be due to the surgery done. It can also be due to Sphincter of Oddi Disease or Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, which  is a rare condition. It can cause an obstruction in the common bile duct and consequent symptoms of abdominal pain and jaundice. Good luck with your procedure. Regards.