Methods, Devices, Kits and Systems for Defunctionalizing the Cystic Duct

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 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 application is incorporated herein by reference.[0002]This application has related subject matter to U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 12 / ______, filed Nov. ______, 2008, entitled “Methods, Devices, Kits and Systems for Defunctionalizing the Gallbladder” by Jacques Van Dam, J. Craig Milroy, and R. Matthew Ohline (identified as Attorney Docket No. 36233-701.202) and U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 12 / ______, filed Nov. ______, 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 (identified as Attorney Docket No. 36233-701.201), which applications are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0003]The invention described in this patent application addresses challenges confr...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[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

Problems solved by technology

The most common problem that arises in the biliary system is the formation of gallstones, a condition called cholelithiasis.

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.

Pain in the upper right abdomen can be constant and severe, the intensity may increase when drawing breath, and it may last for days.

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).

However, gallbladder cancer is not usually detected until patients are symptomatic, by which time the disease is more advanced.

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).

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).

Despite its relative ineffectiveness, it is costly: treatment can last up to 2 years and the drugs cost thousands of dollars per year.

This approach is highly effective at dissolving gallstones, but patients may experience severe burning pain.

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