In a rare and high-risk medical case, doctors in Navi Mumbai has successfully treated a woman, who was 20 weeks pregnant, after she developed severe abdominal pain, vomiting and jaundice.
Investigations revealed a serious bile duct obstruction with infection due to stones, a condition that required urgent intervention. Given that she was in a pregnant state, a critical period for foetal organ development, the medical team performed a highly controlled ERCP procedure using near-zero radiation exposure to protect the unborn child and remove multiple stones of 7- 8 mm. The woman, a 27-year-old resident of Navi Mumbai, was pregnant for the first time, a journey that was emotionally precious for her and her family. She began experiencing persistent abdominal pain, vomiting, and yellowing of the eyes when she initially thought it was a minor stomach infection related to pregnancy. She consulted a local doctor and tried basic medications, but her symptoms continued to worsen. The pain became severe, and the fever and weakness increased, causing deep anxiety about her unborn baby. With growing concern, her family decided not to delay further and rushed her to Medicover Hospital for specialised care. She was immediately evaluated by a multidisciplinary team a team led by Dr Raosaheb Rathod, medical gastroenterologist, hepatologist & therapeutic endoscopist at Medicover Hospitals in Navi Mumbai, to ensure both maternal and fetal safety. Dr Rathod explaining the case, said, “On arrival on July 25, the patient had pain in the abdomen, fever along with obstructive jaundice, which can rapidly worsen and become life-threatening. Blood tests revealed a high white blood cell count of 13500/microlitre, suggesting active infection, along with deranged liver function tests. An ultrasound examination showed multiple gallbladder stones. All viral markers were negative. After a detailed evaluation with MRCP, she was diagnosed with multiple obstructive stones in the common bile duct, a life-threatening condition that required urgent medical intervention. Gallbladder stone diseases are seen in 1 in 1200 pregnancies, and infection occurs in around 5-10 % of these patients. She was immediately started on IV antibiotics and fluids. This condition cannot be managed with medicines alone; removing the stone with ERCP becomes essential. ERCP with stone extraction and stenting was planned.” He further added, “ERCP during pregnancy is always challenging as this procedure carries radiation risk. Radiation exposure during this phase can potentially cause congenital malformations such as microcephaly, eye abnormalities, and intellectual disabilities. ERCP with stone extraction and stenting was planned. However, standard ERCP requires fluoroscopy (X-ray guidance), which is risky during pregnancy due to radiation exposure during organ formation. In this case, we modified our technique, used protective lead shielding, and limited imaging to a single, controlled X-ray shot. The procedure required precision, experience, and coordination. Early intervention prevented severe complications such as liver failure, sepsis, or pancreatitis, ensuring safety for both mother and baby. With careful planning and a minimal exposure strategy, we were able to successfully remove fifteen obstructing stones and stabilise the patient.” The procedure was done within 15 minutes; immediately after the procedure patients’ pain subsided completely, and the pregnant woman was discharged on the second day. On follow-up after 7 days, CBC and liver function tests were done, which showed completely normal results. The patient was advised to avoid a fat-rich diet and visit the hospital if any fever, pain in the abdomen, or jaundice recurs. “When I was told I had a serious infection during my pregnancy, I was extremely scared. This baby is very precious to us. The doctors explained every step and reassured me about the safety measures taken to protect my baby. I am deeply thankful to Dr Raosaheb and the entire team for acting quickly and handling my case with care,” said the pregnant woman.
Navi Mumbai docs remove 15 large stones from pregnant woman's bile duct
