Abstract:
The application discloses devices, systems, kits and methods for treating biliary disease. Devices comprise, for example, a component configurable for deployment between within a cystic duct of a patient which has a proximal end and a distal end. In some embodiments, a lumen may also extend therethrough.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE 
       [0001]    This application is a CONTINUATION application of Ser. No. 12/277,338, filed Nov. 25, 2008, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/991,682, filed Nov. 30, 2007, and Application No. 61/033,368 filed Mar. 3, 2008, which applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0002]    This application has related subject matter to U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 12/277,443 filed Nov. 25, 2008, entitled “Methods, Devices, Kits and Systems for Defunctionalizing the Gallbladder” by Jacques Van Dam, J. Craig Milroy, and R. Matthew Ohline and U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 12/277,491, filed Nov. 25, 2008, entitled, “Biliary Shunts, Delivery Systems, Methods of Using the Same, and Kits Therefor” by Jacques Van Dam, J. Craig Milroy, and R. Matthew Ohline, which applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    The invention described in this patent application addresses challenges confronted in the treatment of biliary disease. Biliary disease includes conditions affecting the gallbladder, cystic duct, and common bile duct. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Biliary System Function and Anatomy: 
       [0004]    Bile is a greenish-brown digestive fluid produced by the liver  10  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , and is vital for the digestion of fatty foods. Bile is secreted by liver cells and collected by a network of ducts that converge at the common hepatic duct  12 . While a small quantity of bile drains directly into the lumen of the duodenum  30  (the section of small intestine immediately downstream of the stomach), most travels through the common hepatic duct  12  and accumulates in the lumen of the gallbladder  14 . Healthy gallbladders are pear-shaped sacs with a muscular wall that, on average, measure 10 cm in length and can store approximately 50 ml of fluid within its lumen. When fatty foods are ingested, the hormone cholecystokinin is released, which causes the gallbladder  14  to contract. Contraction of the gallbladder  14  forces bile to flow from the gallbladder  14 , through the cystic duct  16 , into the common bile duct  18 , out the papilla  28 , and finally into the duodenum  30  of the small intestine. Here, it mixes and reacts with the food that exits the stomach. The Sphincter of Oddi  26  controls secretions from the liver, pancreas  24 , and gallbladder  14  into the duodenum  30  of the small intestine. The opening on the inside of the descending duodenum  30  after the Sphincter of Oddi  26  is called the major duodenal papilla  28  (of Vater). Together, the biliary ducts, the gallbladder  14 , the cystic duct  16  and the common bile duct  18  comprise the biliary system ( FIG. 1 ). 
         [0005]    The pancreas  24  is a gland organ in the digestive and endocrine system of vertebrates. It is both an endocrine gland (producing several important hormones, including insulin, glucagon, and somatostatin), as well as an exocrine gland, secreting pancreatic juice containing digestive enzymes that pass to the small intestine. These enzymes help in the further breakdown of the carbohydrates, protein, and fat in the chyme. The pancreatic duct  22 , or duct of Wirsung, is a duct joining the pancreas  24  to the common bile duct  18  to supply pancreatic juices which aid in digestion provided by the exocrine pancreas. The pancreatic duct  22  joins the common bile duct  18  just prior to the major duodenal papilla  28 , after which both ducts perforate the medial side of the second portion of the duodenum  30  at the major duodenal papilla. 
       Biliary Disease: 
       [0006]    The most common problem that arises in the biliary system is the formation of gallstones, a condition called cholelithiasis. Approximately 20 million Americans have gallstones, and about 1-3% will exhibit symptoms in any given year. In the U.S., gallstones are more common among women, with 25% of women having gallstones by the age of 60 and 50% by the age of 75. Pregnancy and hormone replacement therapy increase the risk of forming gallstones. Prevalence is lower for American men: approximately 25% will develop gallstones by the age of 75. In the U.S., gallstones are responsible for the highest number of hospital admissions due to severe abdominal pain. 
         [0007]    Gallstones  20 ,  20 ′ are most often composed of cholesterol, but may also be formed from calcium bilirubinate, in which case they are called pigment stones. They range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and are irregularly shaped solids resembling pebbles. They can form in the gallbladder  14 , cystic duct  16 , and/or the common bile duct  18  ( FIG. 2 ). By themselves, gallstones  20  do not necessarily result in disease states. This is the case 90% of the time. However, stones can cause infection and inflammation, a condition known as cholecystitis, which is generally the result of restricting or blocking the flow of bile from the gallbladder  14  and common bile duct  18 , or the fluids secreted by the pancreas  24 . 
         [0008]    Gallbladder disease may be chronic, and patients who suffer from this may periodically experience biliary colic. Symptoms include pain in the upper right abdomen near the ribcage, nausea, and/or vomiting. The pain may resolve within an hour of onset, may prove unresponsive to over-the-counter medicines, and may not decrease with changes of position or the passage of gas. Recurrence is common, with pain often recurring at the same time of day, but with frequency of less than once per week. Fatty or large meals may cause recurrence several hours after eating, often awakening the patient at night. Patients may elect to suffer from these symptoms for very long periods of time, such as years or even decades. 
         [0009]    Patients with chronic cholecystitis have gallstones and low-grade inflammation. Untreated, the gallbladder  14  may become scarred and stiff over time, leading to a condition called dysfunctional gallbladder. Patients who have chronic cholecystitis or dysfunctional gallbladder may experience gas, nausea, and abdominal discomfort after meals, and chronic diarrhea. 
         [0010]    Acute cholecystitis (a surgical emergency) develops in 1-3% of those with symptomatic gallstone disease, and is due to obstruction of the common bile duct  18  or cystic duct  16  by stones or sludge. Symptoms are similar to biliary colic, though they are more severe and persistent. Pain in the upper right abdomen can be constant and severe, the intensity may increase when drawing breath, and it may last for days. Pain may radiate to the back, under the breastbone or the shoulder blades, and it may be perceived on the left side of the abdomen. In addition to nausea and vomiting, one third of patients experience fever and chills. Complications from acute cholecystitis can be serious and life threatening, and include gangrene, abscesses, perforation of the gallbladder  14  which can lead to bile peritonitis, pus in the gallbladder wall (empyema), fistulae, and gallstone ilius (when a gallstone creates a blockage in the small intestine). 
         [0011]    When gallstones  20 ′ become lodged in the common bile duct  18  ( FIG. 2 ), the condition is known as choledocholithiasis. Symptoms for this condition include pain, nausea and vomiting, and some patients develop jaundice, have dark urine and/or lighter stools, rapid heartbeat, and experience an abrupt drop in blood pressure. These symptoms can also be accompanied by fever, chills, and/or severe pain in the upper right abdomen. Complications from choledocholithiasis can also be very serious, and include infection of the common bile duct  18  (cholangitis) and inflammation of the pancreas  24  (pancreatitis). 
         [0012]    A smaller patient population suffers from gallbladder disease that occurs in the absence of gallstones. This condition, called acalculous gallbladder disease, can also be chronic or acute. Chronic acalculous gallbladder disease, also called biliary dyskinesia, is thought to be caused by motility disorders that affect the gallbladder&#39;s ability to store and release bile. Acute acalculous gallbladder disease occurs in patients who suffer from other serious illnesses which can lead to inflammation of the gallbladder  14  because of a reduction in the supply of blood to the gallbladder  14  or a reduced ability to contract and empty bile into the duodenum  30 . 
         [0013]    Cancer can also develop in the gallbladder  14 , though this condition is rare. Gallstones have been found in 80% of patients with gallbladder cancer. Gallbladder cancer typically develops from polyps, which are growths inside the gallbladder  14 . When polyps 15 mm across or larger are observed, the gallbladder is removed as a preventive measure. Polyps smaller than 10 mm are widely accepted as posing low risk and are not generally removed. When detected early, before the cancer has spread beyond the mucosa (inner lining) of the gallbladder, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 68%. However, gallbladder cancer is not usually detected until patients are symptomatic, by which time the disease is more advanced. 
       Treatment of Biliary Disease: 
       [0014]    The most effective treatment for biliary disease has been surgical removal of the gallbladder  14 , a procedure called cholecystectomy. Surgical removal of the gallbladder  14  is indicated for patients who experience a number of less severe gallstone attacks, cholecystitis, choledocholithiasis, pancreatitis, acalculous biliary pain with evidence of impaired gallbladder  14  emptying, those at high risk for developing gallbladder cancer, and those who have previously undergone endoscopic sphincterotomy for common bile duct stones. Other treatment modalities exist and are frequently used, but gallbladder disease tends to recur in the majority of patients who forgo cholecystectomy and pursue alternatives. Removal of the gallbladder  14  is highly successful at permanently eliminating biliary disease. Cholecystectomy is one of the most commonly performed procedures on women. The gallbladder  14  is not an essential organ, and after a period of adjustment post surgery, patients tend to return to more or less normal digestive function. 
         [0015]    Cholecystectomy can be performed either as open surgery, which requires a single larger incision in the upper right abdomen, or laparoscopic surgery, in which several small instruments are inserted through much smaller incisions in the abdomen. Approximately 80% of cholecystectomies are performed laparoscopically. The primary benefits of this minimally invasive approach are faster recovery for the patient, and a reduction in overall healthcare costs. Patients who receive laparoscopic cholecystectomy are usually released the same day. By contrast, patients receiving open cholecystectomies typically spend 5-7 days in a hospital before release. 5-10% of laparoscopic procedures convert to open procedures when difficulties arise, such as injury to major blood vessels, inadequate access, inadequate visualization, previous endoscopic sphincterotomy, and thickened gallbladder wall. Complications from cholecystectomy (open or laparoscopic) include bile duct injuries (0.1-0.5% for open, 0.3-2% with a declining trend for laparoscopic), pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and infection. In up to 6% of cases, surgeons fail to identify and remove all gallstones present. 
         [0016]    In some cases, the degree of infection and inflammation prevents patients from undergoing immediate cholecystectomy. In these cases, the gallbladder  14  must be treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents, and drained through a tube into a reservoir outside the abdomen. Placement of this tube occurs in a procedure called percutaneous cholecystostomy, in which a needle is introduced to the gallbladder  14  through the abdomen, fluid is withdrawn, and a drainage catheter is inserted. This catheter drains into an external bag which must be emptied several times a day until the tube is removed. The drainage catheter may be left in place for up to 8 weeks. In cases where no drainage catheter is inserted, the procedure is called gallbladder aspiration. Since no indwelling catheter is placed, the complication rate for gallbladder aspiration is lower than that of percutaneous cholecystostomy. 
         [0017]    Treatment methodologies other than cholecystectomy include expectant management, dissolution therapy, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopanctreatograpy (ERCP) with endoscopic sphincterotomy, and extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL). 
         [0018]    Expectant management is appropriate for patients who have gallstones but no symptoms, and for non-emergency cases with less severe symptoms. This approach is not recommended when patients are in high risk categories (e.g. high risk for gallbladder cancer) or have very large gallstones (e.g. greater than 3 cm). 
         [0019]    Oral dissolution therapy involves the administration of pills containing bile acids that can dissolve gallstones. This approach is only moderately effective, and the rate of recurrence of gallstones after completion of treatment is high. It is not appropriate for patients with acute inflammation or stones in the common bile duct (more serious conditions). Dissolution therapy tends to be more effective for patients with cholesterol stones, and is sometimes used in conjunction with lithotripsy. Despite its relative ineffectiveness, it is costly: treatment can last up to 2 years and the drugs cost thousands of dollars per year. 
         [0020]    Related to oral dissolution therapy is contact dissolution, a procedure that involves injection of a solvent such as methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) directly into the gallbladder  14 . This approach is highly effective at dissolving gallstones, but patients may experience severe burning pain. 
         [0021]    ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatograpy) is a procedure in which an endoscope is introduced through the mouth of a patient, past the stomach to the papilla  28 , where the common bile duct  18  empties into the duodenum  30 . The overall goal of the procedure is to insert instruments and tools into the common bile duct  18  via the papilla  28  in order to treat biliary disease. Typically, endoscopic sphincterotomy is performed, which is a procedure that enlarges the opening of the papilla  28  in the small intestine. This can be accomplished surgically or via balloon dilation. Contrast agent is introduced into the common bile duct  18  to visualize the biliary tree fluoroscopically. Tools for clearing blockages, such as mechanical lithotripsy devices, can be deployed to crush gallstones and remove the resulting debris. Drainage catheters and stents may also be inserted to facilitate the drainage of bile past obstructions. Complications from this challenging procedure occur at a rate of 5-8%, and include recurrence of stone formation, pancreatitis, infection, bleeding, and perforation. 
         [0022]    Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy (ESWL) is a technique in which focused, high-energy ultrasound is directed at the gallbladder  14 . The ultrasound waves travel through the soft body tissue and break up the gallstones. The resulting stone fragments are then usually small enough to pass through the bile duct into the small intestine. Oral dissolution therapy is often used in conjunction with ESWL. This treatment is not in common use, as less than 15% of the patient population are good candidates. However, ESWL is used to treat patients who are not candidates for surgery. Complications from ESWL include pain in the gallbladder area, pancreatitis, and failure of the gallstone fragments to pass into the small intestine. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0023]    Devices for treating biliary disease are disclosed. Suitable devices comprise, for example, a component configurable for placement within a cystic duct of a biliary system of a patient which has a proximal end  102  and a distal end  104 . In some aspects, a means adaptable for positioning within a lumen of a cystic duct of a biliary system of a patient is provided which has a proximal end and a distal end. Devices can further comprise a delivery mechanism for delivering a substance, such as bioresorbable materials or activatable materials. The means for positioning within a lumen can further provide, for example, a means for delivering a substance, such as bioresorbable materials or activatable materials. In some instances, the devices are adaptable and configurable to be removable. Additionally, or alternatively the device are adaptable and configurable to be expandable. Moreover, the devices can be configurable such that the device can achieve one or more configurations, such as a deployment configuration, a delivery configuration and a final configuration. In some embodiments, devices comprise a variable profile, for example, the device can be configurable to be variable along a cross-sectional area of the device. In some aspects , the devices are configurable for deployment by, for example, an endoscope, or by a guidance element such as a guidewire or guidance catheter. In other aspects a lumen can be provided that is configurable to provide restrictable fluid flow, for example by using one or more fluid control components. Devices can also be configured to comprise a valve. Suitable valves include, for example, a flow-restrictor valve or a one-way valve. Moreover, a means for controlling a material can be provided, such as a valve, including, for example, a flow-restrictor valve or a one-way valve. In some configurations of the device it may be desirable for the device to be flexible. 
         [0024]    Still another aspect is directed to a biliary disease treatment device comprising: an implant adapted to be delivered by an endoscope, or guidance element such as a guidewire or guidance catheter to a gastrointestinal site in proximity to a gallbladder, and further adapted to form a conduit between the gastrointestinal site and the gallbladder. Devices can further comprise a delivery mechanism for delivering a substance, such as bioresorbable materials or activatable materials. In some instances, the devices are adaptable and configurable to be removable. Additionally, or alternatively the device are adaptable and configurable to be expandable. Moreover, the devices can be configurable such that the device can achieve one or more configurations, such as a deployment configuration, a delivery configuration and a final configuration. In some embodiments, devices comprise a variable profile, for example, the device can be configurable to be variable along a cross-sectional area of the device. In some aspects, the devices are configurable for deployment by, for example, an endoscope, or by a guidance element such as a guidewire or guidance catheter. In other aspects the lumen is configurable to provide restrictable fluid flow, for example by using one or more fluid control components. Devices can also be configured to comprise a valve. Suitable valves include, for example, a flow-restrictor valve or a one-way valve. In some configurations of the device it may be desirable for the device to be flexible. 
         [0025]    Yet another aspect is directed to a biliary disease treatment device comprising: an implant adaptable to be delivered by percutaneous means, to a gastrointestinal site in proximity to a gallbladder, and further adapted to form a conduit means between the gastrointestinal site and the gallbladder. Percutaneous means includes, for example, guidewire, guiding catheter or endoscope. 
         [0026]    Aspects of the invention also include methods of delivering a device to treat biliary disease. The methods of device delivery comprise, for example, using an endoscope to place guidance element, such as a guidewire or guidance catheter, between an access lumen and a gallbladder; inserting a delivery catheter over the guidance element and into the gallbladder; delivering a cystic duct defunctionalizing device on the guidance element; and positioning the cystic duct defunctionalizing device within a cystic duct. Additional method steps can include the step of passively retaining a distal end of the guidewire in the gallbladder while the guidewire is used to deliver additional elements. Moreover, the method can include the step of retaining a distal end of the guidewire within the gallbladder, retaining a distal end of the guidewire within the cystic duct, and/or retaining a distal end of the guidewire within the common bile duct. Additionally, gallstones can be removed through the created lumen, if desired. Additionally, in some instances, the method can include the step of localizing the gallbladder via endoscopic ultrasound and/or altering or altering and removing gallstones. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that in some instances, it may be desirable to clear obstructions within the gallbladder. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the methods involved herein facilitated treatment of biliary disease without removal of the gallbladder. In still other methods, it may be desirable to also visualize a treatment area, before, during, or after any of the other method steps. In still other methods, a biological duct can be formed in situ from a patient&#39;s tissue. Moreover, the cystic duct defunctionalizing device can be changed, if desired, from a delivery configuration to a deployment configuration, from a delivery configuration to a final configuration, and/or from a deployment configuration to a final configuration. In still other aspects of the method, a cross-sectional profile of the cystic duct defunctionalizing device can be reduced. In other aspects, a valve can be operated to restrict fluid flow. In some instances it may be desirable to defunctionalize the cystic duct in situ. Such defunctionalizing can be achieved by, for example, delivering a substance into a space within the cystic duct. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a wide range of substances can be delivered, including, for example, gels, foams, sclerosing agents, adhesives, bioadhesives, anti-inflammatory and inflammatory agents. Moreover, some substances can be selected that are capable of activation in situ. The amount of substance delivered can vary, as desired, and can include delivering an amount sufficient to fill, or substantially fill, the lumen of the cystic duct, or in the case of an activatable substance, an amount sufficient to result in an activated substance amount sufficient to fill, or substantially fill, the lumen of the cystic duct. In other aspects of the method, the step of defunctionalizing the cystic duct is achievable by delivering a plug or device into a space, or lumen, within the cystic duct. Suitable plugs may be configurable either internally or externally to seat within the lumen of the cystic duct. Moreover plugs or devices can further comprise one or more thread profiles, ridges or steps about its exterior surface adapted to aid in seating the device within the lumen of the duct. The plugs or devices can further comprise a valve. 
         [0027]    Another aspect of the invention is directed to a kit for treating biliary disease. Kits include, for example, one or more devices configurable to be positioned within a cystic duct; and optionally a compound for delivery to a tissue. Other components of the kit include, one or more of, a catheter, a guidewire, an ablation device, a sclerosing agent, antibiotic agents, inflammatory agents, anti-inflammatory agents, biocompatible gels, biocompatible foams, activatable materials, scissors, scalpels, swabs, syringes, hemostats, lubricants, needles, snares, antiseptics, and anesthetics. 
         [0028]    Still another aspect of the invention is directed to a method of treating biliary disease comprising: accessing a lumen associated with a gallbladder; defunctionalizing a cystic duct. An aspect of the method enables the gallbladder to be left in situ. Additionally, the step of defunctionalizing the cystic duct can further comprise the step of delivering a substance to at least one of the cystic duct or the gallbladder. An amount of substance can be delivered such that it occupies, or substantially occupies the lumen, or is activated to occupy or substantially occupy the lumen of the cystic duct. One or more suitable substances can be delivered including, for example, antibiotics, inflammatory agents, and anti-inflammatory agents. In some instances, the method includes the step of preventing bile from entering the gallbladder lumen. Additionally, the method can include the step of localizing the gallbladder via endoscopic ultrasound. In other aspects of the method, the step of accessing the gallbladder is achieved via the gastrointestinal tract, such as by accessing the gastrointestinal tract at a duodenum. Additional aspects of the method include, for example, one or more of sclerosing, necrotizing or ablating tissue. Ablation techniques can, for example, be selected from the group comprising cryoablation, thermal ablation, chemical ablation, radio frequency ablation, ultrasound ablation, and microwave ablation. In some instances, a fluid can be delivered wherein the fluid is delivered, for example, with an angular orientation, moreover fluid can be delivered with at least one of a 360 degree radial pattern, a sharp stream, and a cone shape. Still further, the fluid can be delivered with a device comprising an articulating member or a means for articulating. In some aspects of the method it may be desirable to apply a vacuum to a lumen of the cystic duct or the gallbladder, and/or apply an adhesive to the lumen of the cystic duct. Additionally, in some instances the step of defunctionalizing the cystic duct may further comprise physically blocking a lumen of the cystic duct, such as with a plug, device, means for blocking or means for plugging. 
         [0029]    Yet another aspect of the invention is directed to a device for treating biliary disease comprising a plug, device, means for blocking or means for plugging, adaptable and configurable to be positioned within a cystic duct of a patient having a proximal end and a distal end and is configurable either internally or externally to seat within a lumen of the cystic duct after deployment. The external configuration of the plug, device, or plugging means can be configurable to have one or more of threads, ridges, steps, or means for securing. Moreover, the ridges, steps or means for securing can be fixed or activatable. Additionally, the plug, device or plugging means can further comprise a valve, such as a one-way valve, or means for controlling or restricting a flow of fluid or flowable material. In some aspects the plug, device or plugging means can be positioned within or proximal to the cystic duct. 
         [0030]    Another aspect of the invention is directed to the use of any of the devices disclosed herein for use in the treatment of biliary disease. 
       INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE 
       [0031]    All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0032]    The novel features of the invention will be set forth with particularity in any claims presented based on this application. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which: 
           [0033]      FIG. 1  illustrates an overview of the biliary system; 
           [0034]      FIG. 2  illustrates the biliary system with gallstones; 
           [0035]      FIG. 3  illustrates an endoscope accessing the biliary system via the intestinal system; 
           [0036]      FIGS. 4A-E  illustrate cystic duct defunctionalization devices; 
           [0037]      FIG. 5  illustrates a cystic duct defunctionalization device in combination with a guidewire; and 
           [0038]      FIG. 6  illustrates a cystic duct plug with 1-way valve. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0039]    Devices, systems, methods and kits provided herewith can obviate the need for a plurality of procedures, including, for example: 1) percutaneous cholecystostomy, 2) cholecystectomy, 3) percutaneous trans-hepatic cholangiography (PTHC), and 4) endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Additionally, disclosed treatment modalities enable treatment of a distal common bile duct  18  obstruction, e.g. secondary to pancreatic carcinoma, cholagiocarcinoma, and/or ampullary carcinoma. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the conventional standard of care for treating biliary disease has been surgical removal of the gallbladder  14  and closure of the cystic duct  16 . While this has proven to be an effective mechanism for permanently eliminating biliary disease and its recurrence, the present invention seeks to accomplish the same end in a less invasive and less costly way. This may be achieved by treating biliary disease without requiring the removal of the gallbladder  14 . Methods and apparatus are described in this application that are intended to effectively treat biliary disease with the gallbladder  14  and cystic duct  16  left in situ by defunctionalizing the cystic duct. 
       Defunctionalization of the Cystic Duct: 
       [0040]    In order to treat gallbladder  14  disease while leaving the gallbladder  14  in situ, it may be desirable to defunctionalize the cystic duct  16 . The cystic duct  16  connects the gallbladder  14  and the common bile duct  18  (see  FIG. 1 ), and is the flow path for bile into and out of the gallbladder  14 . An objective of defunctionalizing the cystic duct  16  is to prevent bile from reaching the gallbladder  14 . The gallbladder  14  may be otherwise unaltered, or it may be altered—e.g. a conduit or shunt may be placed for access and/or drainage, the gallbladder  14  may be defunctionalized, etc. When bile is unable to enter the cystic duct  16 , and therefore the gallbladder  14 , the gallbladder  14  will also be effectively defunctionalized, whether or not any other treatment is performed. Gallstones may form anywhere that bile is present in the biliary system, so preventing bile from flowing in the cystic duct  16  may prevent the formation of gallstones in the cystic duct  16  and gallbladder  14 . Defunctionalization of the cystic duct  16  may be long- or short-term, temporary or permanent. The entire length of the cystic duct  16  may be defunctionalized, or it may be performed at one or more discrete locations. The treatment may be applied anywhere along the length of the cystic duct  16 , from the point where it joins the common bile duct  18  to the point where it interfaces with the gallbladder  14 . However, the preferred treatment location for defunctionalizing the cystic duct  16  is as close to the junction with the common bile duct  18  as possible without substantially affecting the function of the common bile duct  18 . 
         [0041]    In holding with the other methods and apparatus described in this application, it is most desirable to effect defunctionalization of the cystic duct  16  from within the gallbladder  14 , inside the cystic duct  16 , and/or inside the common bile duct  18 . This eliminates the need for external, surgical access to these anatomical structures. Optionally, defunctionalization of the cystic duct  16  is achieved by the use of implements delivered endoscopically or means for accessing the cystic duct percutaneously. In some instances, directly visualizing the devices and navigational devices used may also be desirable, and may facilitate control and treatment. Visualization may be achieved by any suitable mechanism known in the art, including, for example, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), or by using a small daughter endoscope (e.g. a cystoscope), or by using catheters incorporating small imaging sensors at the distal end (e.g. Avantis&#39; Third Eye) and fiber optic imaging bundles (e.g. Boston Scientific&#39;s SpyGlass). Visualization and guidance may also be achieved via external imaging methods, such as fluoroscopy (with or without the use of contrast agent), ultrasound, X-ray, etc. 
         [0042]    Defunctionalization of the cystic duct  16  may be accomplished by a variety of mechanisms, including, but not limited to, ablation methods (e.g. cryo-, thermal-, RF, microwave, ultrasound, etc.) and mechanical methods (e.g. plugs, stoppers, sutures, staples, clamps, clips, adhesives, bioadhesives, vacuum with adhesives/bioadhesives, vacuum without adhesives/bioadhesives, etc.). Regardless of the method used, it may be helpful to begin the process by inserting a guidance element  530 , such as a guidewire, guidance catheter or any suitable means for accessing the cystic duct  16  from within the gallbladder  14 , though a conduit that connects the gallbladder  14  lumen to the access lumen, e.g. at or near the duodenum  30 , or from within the common bile duct  18 , as may be done during ERCP. A guidance element  530  ( FIG. 5 ) (e.g. a guidewire, guidance catheter, etc.) may be useful for inserting and navigating items into the cystic duct  16 , such as ablation catheters, visualization catheters, mechanisms of treating gallstones within the cystic duct  16 , devices  520  for defunctionalizing the cystic duct  16 , and other mechanisms of defunctionalizing the cystic duct  16 . Since the cystic duct  16  is funnel-shaped (with a larger diameter at the opening into the gallbladder  14  than at the junction with the common bile duct  18 ), and spirals as it progresses (an anatomical feature called the valves of Heister), it may be easily traversed with a guidance element  530 , such as a guidewire or guidance catheter, from within the gallbladder  14  simply by pushing. However, the guidance element  530  may be configured or configurable to facilitate advancement. Moreover, alternate shapes of the guidance element  530  may facilitate advancement, such as a cork-screw shape, spiral shape, or a tip that is preferentially bent to one side. In these cases, successfully advancing the guidance element  530  into the cystic duct  16  may be achieved by pushing, torquing (rotating), or a combination of pushing and torquing. 
         [0043]    If defunctionalization is achieved by physically blocking the cystic duct  16 , a cystic duct defunctionalization device  420  serving a similar function as, for example, a bottle stopper may be used ( FIG. 4A ). The defunctionalization device  420  has a proximal end and a distal end. Such a device  420  may be inserted into the cystic duct  16  from the gallbladder  14 , through a conduit that connects the gallbladder  14  to an access lumen such as the duodenum  30 . The plug  420  may be inserted before, during, or after other treatments for inflammation, infection, gallstones, etc. have been administered or completed. The plug  420  may be left in place for a limited period of time, or permanently. The plug  420  or means for plugging the cystic duct may be comprised of any suitable biocompatible material, such as silicone, polytetrafluroethylene (PTFE), stainless steel, titanium, shape memory materials (e.g. Nitinol), etc. The device  420  may be configured or configurable to provide a means for blocking the cystic duct. 
         [0044]    Devices  420  may optionally incorporate features that aid in retaining and securing the device in place. Such features may be inactive (that is, fixed and integral to or incorporated into the devices), e.g. a spiral thread pattern  422  (in which case, the devices should be rotated into position in the cystic duct  16  at installation,  FIG. 4B ), one or more ridges  423  ( FIG. 4C ), and/or one or more backward-facing steps  424  resembling a hose barb ( FIG. 4D ). Each of these one or more threads  422 , ridges  423 , and steps  424  features enable the device  420  to be secured within the cystic duct  14 . Alternately, the retaining features may be active  425  so that they may be activated once the device is in the desired position, e.g. with shape memory alloys (e.g. Nitinol) or with mechanically triggered movable elements ( FIG. 4E ). 
         [0045]    Additionally, a plug or stopper device  620  may have one or more flow control elements, such as 1-way valves  640  which allow flow out of the gallbladder  14  and cystic duct  16 , but does not allow flow into the cystic duct  16  or gallbladder  14  ( FIG. 6 ). This may be useful in cases where drainage of the gallbladder  14  and/or cystic duct  16  is desired, and provides either a primary or secondary flow path for fluids. Additionally, activatable materials can be delivered to the cystic duct. Suitable activatable materials include, for example, sclerosing substances, gels, foams, adhesives, bioadhesives. Any of such activatable materials may be selected so that they are absorbed or break down within the body over a desired period of time. Additionally, a vacuum may be applied to the cystic duct in order to close or substantially close it. This may be done in combination with the use of any of the other techniques described herein. 
         [0046]    Since stones  20  may be present in the cystic duct  16  at the time of treatment, it may be necessary to eliminate them before, during, or after defunctionalization. This may be achieved using mechanical lithotripsy, snares, chemical/contact dissolution with substances such as methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), ultrasound energy, or any other useful or effective mechanism of breaking up and/or removing gallstones. Removal of gallstones through a conduit placed in the gallbladder  14  allows clinicians to access the cystic duct  16  from the reverse direction, which is not possible with conventional techniques. This may dramatically facilitate the process of treating gallstones  20  in the cystic duct  16  and common bile duct  18 , which can be difficult using conventional techniques. 
         [0047]    A method of treating biliary disease involves using an endoscope  310  to access a region in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract to which the cystic duct  16  is in close proximity, locating the cystic duct  16 , accessing the cystic duct  16 , and then treating the underlying condition that led to the need for intervention ( FIG. 3 ). Treatments may also include, but are not limited to: providing for drainage of the gallbladder  14  and/or the biliary tree, delivering antibiotics, inflammatory, anti-inflammatory agents (any of which may be short-term acting, fast acting, or time release), and/or other substances (e.g. adhesives, bioadhesives, etc.) and/or activatable materials to the gallbladder  14  and/or biliary tree, removing gallstones  20 , facilitating the destruction and subsequent removal of gallstones, clearing obstructions, delivering catheters, delivering stents (drug coated or not drug coated), temporarily or permanently defunctionalizing the cystic duct  16 , temporarily or permanently defunctionalizing the gallbladder  14 . Devices and therapies can be delivered in a single treatment, with minimal likelihood of or necessity for follow-up or repeat procedures. 
         [0048]    Localization of the gallbladder  14  can be performed via endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) by accessing the wall of the GI tract with an endoscope  310  as shown in  FIG. 3 . Localization may also be achieved by any other method that visualizes anatomical features, such as fluoroscopy, x-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed axial tomography (CT) scans, ultrasound imaging from outside the body, or any method of anatomical imaging and visualization. 
         [0049]    Once the gallbladder  14  has been located, it may be accessed and/or treated through the wall of the GI tract  350  (or any lumen in proximity to the gallbladder  14 ) with tools and devices (e.g. needles, guidewires, guidance catheters, shunts, dilators, etc.) delivered through, for example, an endoscope  310 . Such tools and devices may be inserted down the length of the endoscope&#39;s working channel  312 , or loaded onto or near the distal end of the endoscope  310 . Alternately, tools and other devices may be used that do not require the aid of the endoscope for navigation or delivery. Direct visualization may be provided by the endoscope  310  during the procedure, as well as irrigation, suction, and insufflation. 
         [0050]    Though the preferred location for accessing the gallbladder lumen is the duodenum  30 , it may also be readily achieved through the wall of other regions of the GI tract, such as the stomach or the jejunum, for example. Thus, any lumen in close proximity to the gallbladder  14  is a candidate for access to and treatment of the gallbladder  14  and other members of the biliary system. 
         [0051]    The devices and methods disclosed herein facilitate defunctionalizing the cystic duct without the need for surgery. 
       Kits: 
       [0052]    All of the devices required to deliver and install a conduit, treat and/or defunctionalize the cystic duct  16 , may be packaged in a kit. Bundling all devices, tools, components, materials, and accessories needed to perform these procedures into a kit may enhance the usability and convenience of the devices, and also improve the safety of the procedure by encouraging clinicians to use the items believed to result in the best outcomes. The kit may be single-use or reusable, or it may incorporate some disposable single-use elements and some reusable elements. The kit may contain, but is not limited to, the following: implantable and/or non-implantable devices; delivery devices (e.g., needles, guidewires, guidance catheters, dilators, etc.); balloon inflation/deflation accessories; syringes; fluid flow, temperature, and pressure measurement instruments; scissors; scalpels; clips; ablation catheters; endoscopic tools (e.g. lithotripsy devices, snares, graspers, clamps, forceps, etc.). The kit may be supplied in a tray, which organizes and retains all items so that they can be quickly identified and used. 
       Description of Other Uses: 
       [0053]    The techniques and devices described in this application may prove beneficial in applications beyond their initial use in the treatment of biliary disease. 
         [0054]    For example, they may prove to be an effective mechanism of treating cholangitis (infection of the common bile duct  18 ). This condition is usually bacterial, and occurs when the bile duct is blocked by gallstones  20 ′ or a tumor. Traditional treatment involves the insertion of a stent or drainage catheter into the common bile duct  18  to allow bile to drain into the duodenum  30  from locations above the obstruction. Placement of a conduit into the gallbladder  14  may allow for an alternate method of draining bile and/or other fluids into the duodenum  30 . Any blockage in the common bile duct  18  between the entrance of the cystic duct  16  and the duodenum  30  may be treated in this way. See  FIG. 2 . 
         [0055]    Another use of the devices and techniques described elsewhere in this application may be to create anastomoses between any body lumens in proximity to one another. This may include, but is not limited to: small bowel to small bowel anastomoses, small bowel to large bowel anastomoses, large bowel to large bowel anastomoses, and stomach to small bowel anastomoses. Additionally, creating a conduit between the stomach and other body lumens may be useful and effective for treating and/or managing obesity. 
         [0056]    Another use of the devices and techniques described herein is for drainage of any body lumen into another body lumen in proximity, for example, the drainage of pancreatic pseudocysts. 
         [0057]    While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.