CN110099613A - Surgery suturing appliance and its exchangeable tool component - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention discloses interchangeable surgical tool components.Interchangeable surgical tool component may include end effector, which includes the first jaw, the second jaw and sliding part, which is configured to translate relative to the first jaw and the second jaw.Interchangeable surgical tool component may also include firing member, which includes the first flange for being configured to the first jaw of engagement and the second flange for being configured to the second jaw of engagement.Interchangeable surgical tool component may also include push plate and be selectively coupled to the trigger shaft of the push plate, wherein trigger shaft is configured to move through multiple continuous shooting strokes, and multiple continuous shooting stroke includes the first distal side firing stroke, the first nearside firing stroke, the second distal side firing stroke, the second nearside firing stroke.Additionally or alternatively, interchangeable surgical tool component may include rotatable end effector and flexible spine.

Description

Surgical stapling instruments and their replaceable tool assemblies

Background technique

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith designed to staple and cut tissue.

Description of drawings

The various features of the embodiments described herein, along with their advantages, can be understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

1 is a perspective view of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly operably coupled to a handle assembly;

1A is a front exploded assembled view of the handle assembly of FIG. 1 and a plurality of interchangeable surgical tool assemblies thereof;

Figure 2 is an exploded perspective assembled view of portions of the handle assembly and interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 1;

Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 1, with portions thereof omitted for clarity;

Fig. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly shown in Fig. 1, taken along its longitudinal axis, with portions thereof omitted for clarity;

Figure 5 is an exploded assembled view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 1;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the anvil of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly shown in Figure 1;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the elongated channel of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly shown in Figure 1;

8 is a perspective view of a pivot joint of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 1;

Figure 9 is a plan view of the pivot joint of Figure 8;

10 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 1 showing the firing member at the pivot joint of FIG. 8 in an initial position;

11 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 1 showing the firing member at the pivot joint of FIG. 8 in a proximally retracted position from an initial position;

12 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 1 showing the firing member at the pivot joint of FIG. 8 in a position advanced distally from an initial position;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly, showing the distal nose portion in an initial configuration;

Fig. 14 is a front view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 13, showing the distal nose portion in an initial configuration;

Fig. 15 is a front view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 13, showing the distal nose portion in a pivoted configuration;

Fig. 16 is a front view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 13, showing the distal nose portion in a pivoted configuration;

Figure 17 is a front cross-sectional view of the end effector of Figure 13 showing the distal nose portion in a pivoted configuration;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of the upper portion of the firing member;

Figure 18A is a perspective view of the upper flange of the firing member of Figure 18;

Figure 19 is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member of Figure 18, showing the firing member in a first configuration;

Figure 20 is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member of Figure 18, showing the firing member in a pressure configuration;

Figure 21 is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member of Figure 18, showing the firing member in an adapted configuration;

Figure 21A is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member of Figure 18, showing the firing member in a loaded configuration;

Figure 22 is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member showing the firing member in a first configuration;

Figure 23 is a front view of the upper portion of the firing member of Figure 22, showing the firing member in an adapted configuration;

24 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly showing the firing member distally displaced from a home position to a first intermediate position with a first load applied to an upper flange of the firing member;

25 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 24 showing the firing member distally displaced from the first intermediate position to the second intermediate position with a reduced load applied to the upper flange ;

26 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 24 showing the firing member distally displaced from the second intermediate position to the third intermediate position with the upper flange applied with increased load ;

Figure 27 is a perspective partial cutaway view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly, with portions thereof omitted for clarity;

Figure 28 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 27 with a staple cartridge missing from the interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

Figure 29 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 27 with a staple cartridge positioned in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

30 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly with a latch with the latch in a locked configuration;

31 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 30 with the staple cartridge positioned therein with the latching device in an unlocked configuration and the staple cartridge in a pre-fired state;

Fig. 32 is a perspective view of a proximal portion of the staple cartridge of Fig. 31, showing a pre-fired state of the staple cartridge;

33 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 30 with the staple cartridge of FIG. 31 positioned therein and showing the firing assembly of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly during the initial portion of the firing stroke Advance to an intermediate position with the cartridge in a post-fired state;

Fig. 34 is a perspective view of the proximal portion of the staple cartridge of Fig. 31, showing the post-fired state of the staple cartridge;

Figure 35 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 30 after completion of a firing stroke and with the staple cartridge of Figure 31 positioned therein;

Figure 36 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the anvil;

37 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly taken along the centerline of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly and showing a portion of the anvil, a portion of the elongated channel, and a latching spring of FIG. 36;

Figure 38 is a perspective partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 37 taken along the centerline of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

Fig. 39 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 37 taken along the centerline of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly and showing the anvil in an open position;

Figure 40 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 37 taken along the plane shown in Figure 36 and showing the anvil in an open position;

41 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 37 taken along the centerline of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly and showing the staple cartridge installed in the elongated channel and the anvil in an open position seat;

Figure 42 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 37, taken along the plane shown in Figure 36, and showing the staple cartridge installed in the elongated channel and the anvil in an open position;

43 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 37 taken along the centerline of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly and showing the staple cartridge installed in the elongated channel and moved by the firing member to the anvil in closed position;

44 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of the proximal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 37 taken along the plane shown in FIG. 36 and showing the staple cartridge installed in the elongated channel and moved to a closed position by the firing member the anvil;

45 is a perspective partial cutaway view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly showing an unfired staple cartridge installed therein and the firing member in a proximal position;

Fig. 46 is another perspective partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 45 showing the unfired staple cartridge and the firing member in a proximal position installed therein;

Figure 47 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the latch in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 45;

Fig. 48 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 45 showing the unfired staple cartridge and the firing member in a proximal home position installed therein;

Figure 49 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 45 showing the firing member displaced distally from the proximal home position during the initial portion of the firing stroke;

Figure 50 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 45 showing the firing member returning to the proximal home position upon completion of the firing stroke;

Fig. 51 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 45 showing the firing member having been returned to the proximal home position;

Figure 52 is an elevational partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 45 showing the firing member displaced distally from a proximal home position during a subsequent attempted firing stroke;

Figure 53 is a perspective view of the latching device of Figure 47;

Figure 54 is a front partial cutaway detail view of the pivot joint of Figure 8 showing the firing member at the pivot joint in an advanced position and also showing the spring assembly;

Figure 55 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

Figure 56 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

Figure 57 is a plan view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56;

Figure 58 is a front cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 taken along the plane shown in Figure 56;

Figure 59 is a front exploded assembled view of the push plate and firing rod of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56;

Figure 60 is a plan cross-sectional view of the push plate and firing link of Figure 59 taken along the plane shown in Figure 59;

Figure 61 is a front view of the push plate of Figure 59;

Figure 62 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the beginning of a first firing stroke;

63 is a front cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 56 taken along the plane shown in FIG. 62 at the beginning of the first firing stroke;

Figure 64 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of the first firing stroke;

Figure 65 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of a second firing stroke;

Figure 66 is a plan view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of a second firing stroke;

Figure 67 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of a third firing stroke;

Figure 68 is a plan view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of a third firing stroke;

Figure 69 is a front cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 taken along the plane shown in Figure 67 at the completion of the third firing stroke;

Figure 70 is a front cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 56 at the completion of a fourth firing stroke;

Figure 71 is a perspective view of a distal portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly;

Figure 72 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 71;

Figure 73 is a plan cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 71;

Figure 74 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Figure 71;

Figure 75 is a perspective view of a portion of another surgical instrument embodiment;

Figure 76 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the surgical instrument portion of Figure 75;

Figure 77 is another exploded assembly view of the surgical instrument of Figures 75 and 76 with its channel portion separated from its shaft assembly;

Figure 78 is another exploded assembly view of portions of the channel and shaft assembly of the surgical instrument of Figures 75-77;

79 is a partial cutaway front view of some portions of the surgical instrument of FIGS. 75-78 with its channel supporting the surgical staple cartridge therein and attached to the shaft assembly with its anvil in a closed position and the firing member distally Lateral advancement to fire the staples in the surgical staple cartridge;

Figure 80 is a partial perspective view of a portion of another surgical instrument embodiment;

Figure 81 is a cross-sectional front view of some portions of the surgical instrument of Figures 75-79;

Figure 82 is another cross-sectional front view of portions of the surgical instrument shown in Figure 81;

Figure 83 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical instrument of Figures 75-79 with its end effector articulating relative to the shaft assembly in a first articulation plane;

Figure 84 is a partial perspective view of the surgical instrument of Figure 83 with its end effector articulating relative to the shaft assembly in a second articulation plane;

Figure 85 is another perspective view of the surgical instrument of Figures 83 and 84 showing the end effector articulating in a first articulation plane and a second articulation plane;

Figure 86 is a perspective view of a portion of another surgical instrument embodiment;

Figure 87 is a perspective exploded assembled view of the surgical instrument portion of Figure 86;

88 is a perspective view of a coupler device for removably coupling the end effector portion to the shaft assembly portion of the surgical instrument of FIGS. 86 and 87;

Figure 89 is a top view of an end effector attached to the shaft assembly of Figures 86-88 with portions of the end effector and shaft assembly shown in cross-section for clarity;

90 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly showing its anvil in an open position;

Fig. 91 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Fig. 90 showing the staple cartridge and the anvil in an open position installed in the elongated channel; and

92 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 90 showing the staple cartridge installed in the elongated channel and the anvil moved to a closed position.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention in one form, and such exemplifications should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Detailed ways

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,221 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,209 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,198 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS ANDREPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,240 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,939 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,941 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FORSHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES ANDARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,943 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,950 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONFEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,945 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,946 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,951 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASINGA JAW OPENING DISTANCE";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,953 entitled "METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,954 entitled "FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FORSURGICAL END EFFECTORS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,955 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOPARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,948 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,956 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,958 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTINGFIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,947 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,896 entitled "METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,898 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENTTYPES OF STAPLES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,899 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,901 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,902 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,904 entitled "STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND/ORSPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,905 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,907 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUTAND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,908 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,909 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,920 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,913 entitled "ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,914 entitled "METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OFSTAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,893 entitled "BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE FORMING POCKET PAIRS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,929 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING ANDFIRING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,927 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,917 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPINGBREADTHS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,900 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARYSIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,931 entitled "NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FORSURGICAL STAPLERS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,915 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,897 entitled "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMINGSURFACE GROOVES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,922 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,924 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,912 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT AFIXED AXIS AND INCLUDE SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,910 entitled "ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,903 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,906 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,188 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,192 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAPSETTING FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15,386,206 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,226 entitled "DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIESOF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,222 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITHPOSITIVE OPENING FEATURES"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,236 entitled "CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DISPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENTS".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,887 entitled "METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICALINSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,889 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,890 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE ANDRETRACTABLE SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,891 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THEOUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,892 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO ANARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,894 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,895 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATION LOCKOUTS".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,916 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,918 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,919 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,921 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBERCONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,923 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,925 entitled "JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OFA FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN FIRED CARTRIDGE ISINSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,926 entitled "AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,928 entitled "PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN AMOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,930 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENINGFEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,932 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFTARRANGEMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,933 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLELINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,934 entitled "ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR INAN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,935 entitled "LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FORLOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,936 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKEAMPLIFICATION FEATURES".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,775 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,807 entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPEDSTAPLES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,834 entitled "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,788 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,818 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,218 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,227 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,259 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; and

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,264 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE".

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on April 1, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,325 entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,321 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,326 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,263 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIPPORTION";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,262 entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLEBAILOUT SYSTEM";

- Named "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVILCONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER"

U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,277;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,296 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL ENDEFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,258 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,278 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVECUTTING OF TISSUE";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,284 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,295 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSIONLOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,300 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,196 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,203 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,210 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGELOCKOUT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,324 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,335 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,339 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,253 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OFSTAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,304 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,331 entitled "ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,336 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,312 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUESUPPORT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,309 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,349 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL".

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified patent applications filed on December 31, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,488 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE INPOWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,525 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,552 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROLCIRCUITS".

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified patent applications filed on February 9, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLYTRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,228 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,206 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLYARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,215 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,227 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATIONLINK ARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,235 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLEDRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAMARRANGEMENTS"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS".

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified patent applications filed on February 12, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,254 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,259 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,275 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,289 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on June 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,925 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENINGARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,941 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSINGFEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,914 entitled "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,900 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAMSTRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,885 entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,876 entitled "PUSH/PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on March 6, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,746 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256184;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,795 entitled "MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/02561185;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,832 entitled "ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURERATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256154;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,935 entitled "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TOMEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256071;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,831 entitled "MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTORFOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256153;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,859 entitled "TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINESTABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256187;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,817 entitled "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256186;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,844 entitled "CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULARSHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256155;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,837 entitled "SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256163;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,765 entitled "SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGEINTO A SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256160;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,799 entitled "SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON AROTATABLE SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256162; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,780 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256161.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on February 27, 2015, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,576 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249919;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,546 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCEPARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249915;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,560 entitled "SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONEOR MORE BATTERIES", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249910;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,566 entitled "CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FORCHARGING A BATTERY", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249918;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,555 entitled "SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TOBE SERVICED", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249916;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,542 entitled "REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249908;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,548 entitled "POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249909;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,526 entitled "ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249945;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,541 entitled "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249927; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,562 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFEPARAMETER", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249917.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on December 18, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,478 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174977;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,483 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174969;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,139 entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174978;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,148 entitled "LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITHARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174976;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,130 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLEABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174972;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,143 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174983;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,117 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDMOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174975;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,154 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDIMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174973;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,493 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174970; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,500 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174971.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on March 1, 2013, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,295 entitled "Articulatable Surgical Instruments With Conductive Pathways For Signal Communication", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246471;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,323 entitled "Rotary Powered Articulation Joints For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246472;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,338 entitled "Thumbwheel Switch Arrangements For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0249557;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,499 entitled "Electromechanical Surgical Device with Signal Relay Arrangement", now US Patent 9,358,003;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,460 entitled "Multiple Processor Motor Control for Modular Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246478;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,358 entitled "Joystick Switch Assemblies For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent 9,326,767;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,481 entitled "Sensor Straightened End Effector During Removal ThroughTrocar", now US Patent 9,468,438;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,518 entitled "Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with RemovableImplement Portions", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246475;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375 entitled "Rotary Powered Surgical Instruments With Multiple Degrees of Freedom", now US Patent 9,398,911; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,536 entitled "Surgical Instrument Soft Stop", now US Patent 9,307,986.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 14, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,097 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263542;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,193 entitled "CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,332,987;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263564;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,210 entitled "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FORSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263538;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,148 entitled "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263554;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,066 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263565;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,117 entitled "ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,351,726;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,130 entitled "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,351,727; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,159 entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0277017.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent application filed on March 7, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/200,111 entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263539.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,106 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272582;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,099 entitled "STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272581;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,094 entitled "VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272580;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,117 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUITAND WAKE UP CONTROL", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272574;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,075 entitled "MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFTASSEMBLIES", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272579;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,093 entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272569;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,116 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272571;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,071 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETYPROCESSOR", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272578;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,097 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272570;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,126 entitled "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272572;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,133 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272557;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,081 entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0277471;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,076 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLEVOLTAGE PROTECTION", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0280424;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,111 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272583; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,125 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0280384.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on September 5, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,103 entitled "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066912;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,119 entitled "ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUECOMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066914;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,908 entitled "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066910;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,895 entitled "MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'SOUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066909;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,110 entitled "POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066915;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,098 entitled "SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066911;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,115 entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066916; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,108 entitled "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066913.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 9, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,590 entitled "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVESHAFTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305987;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,581 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRINGDRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305989;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,595 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLINGTHE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305988;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,588 entitled "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0309666;

- US Patent Application Serial 14/248,591 entitled "TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305991;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,584 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENTFEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305994;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,587 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0309665;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,586 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305990; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,607 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUSINDICATION ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0305992.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 16, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,365 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,376 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,382 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,385 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS ANDMOTOR CONTROL"; and

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,372 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR".

Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the general structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are by way of non-limiting example, so that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative, and may be appreciated. Variations and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

The term "comprise" (and any form of "comprise" such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and "have" any form, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of "include", such as "includes" and "including" "), and "contain" (and any form of "contain" such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended copulas. Thus, a surgical system, device, or device that "comprises," "has," "comprises," or "contains" one or more elements has those one or more elements, but is not limited to having only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, apparatus, or device that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features has those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features feature part.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It should also be understood that, for brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. The reader will readily appreciate, however, that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in a variety of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in conjunction with open surgical procedures. With continued reference to this detailed description, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture formed in tissue, and the like. The working or end effector portion of the instrument can be inserted directly into the patient or through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument can be advanced.

The surgical stapling system can include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the staple cartridge cannot be removed from the first jaw, or at least easily replaceable from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about the closing axis; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system also includes an articulation joint configured to allow rotation or articulation of the end effector relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are contemplated that do not include articulation joints.

The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal and distal ends. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of tissue to be stapled, and the anvil is positioned on a second side of tissue. The anvil moves toward the staple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the platform. The staples, which are removably stored in the cartridge body, can then be deployed into tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, wherein the staples are removably stored in the staple cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in four longitudinal rows. Two rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and two rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples are also possible.

The staple is movable between its non-fired position and its fired position by the slider assembly. The slider assembly is movable between a proximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal position adjacent the distal end. The slider assembly includes ramp surfaces configured to slide under the staples and lift the staples toward the anvil. Other arrangements may include a staple driver that supports the staples in the staple cavity, and in this arrangement the slider assembly may slide under the driver and lift the driver and the staples supported thereon toward the anvil.

In addition to the above, the slider assembly can also be moved distally by the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider assembly and urge the slider assembly toward the distal end. A longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive a firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member also includes a first cam engaging the first jaw and a second cam engaging the second jaw. The first and second cams may control the distance or tissue clearance between the platform of the staple cartridge and the anvil as the firing member is advanced distally. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut through tissue captured between the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable for the knife to be positioned at least partially proximate the ramp surface so that the nails are fired ahead of the knife.

In certain instances, the end effectors described herein can define a width equal to or less than 8 mm and a height equal to or less than 8 mm. For example, the end effector described herein may be 5 mm wide by 8 mm high. In other examples, the end effector may be, for example, 5 mm wide by 5 mm high. The compact end effectors described herein can include various features that contribute to their small footprint. For example, such end effectors may include direct drive staples such as those described in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/836,324, filed August 26, 2015, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLES FOR MINIMIZING STAPLE ROLL," which patent The entire application is incorporated herein by reference. Because the driver is eliminated when the staples are directly driven by the slider assembly, the height of the staple cartridge, and thus the height of the end effector configured to receive the staple cartridge, can be reduced. Additionally or alternatively, such end effectors may include multifunctional firing members. For example, the firing member may drive the slider to fire the staples from the staple cartridge, cut tissue sandwiched between the jaws, move the jaw cam to a clamped configuration, and move the jaw cam to an open configuration. Such a clamp-fire-open firing member may enable a combination of surgical function with a single actuation system, which may reduce separate actuation systems in the end effector, and thus may reduce the size of the end effector. For example, in some instances, a translating closure tube that moves around at least a portion of the end effector to effect a closing action may be eliminated.

The compact end effectors described herein are advantageous for a variety of surgical procedures, including those where a small surgical footprint can be valued. For example, in some thoracic procedures, end effectors can be used to cut and seal blood vessels, such as pulmonary vessels, which have small diameters and high flow. Compact end effectors may require smaller insertion holes and may provide the surgeon with enhanced visibility around the surgical site.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate one form of surgical instrument 10 that includes an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 operably coupled to a motor-driven handle assembly 500 . Referring to Figure 1A, in addition to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, the handle assembly 500 is also compatible with a number of different interchangeable surgical tool assemblies. For example, handle assembly 500 may be compatible with interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 1000', 1000", 1000"' and 1000"" shown in A in Figure 1 . The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 can also be effectively used with a tool drive assembly of a robotically controlled or automated surgical system. For example, the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein may be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components and methods disclosed in US Pat. No. 9,072,535 entitled "SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", such as but not limited to , which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The handle assembly 500 and the tool drive assembly of the robotic system may also be referred to herein as a "control system" or "control unit."

1 and 2 illustrate the attachment of interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to handle assembly 500. The handle assembly 500 can include a handle housing 502 that includes a pistol grip 504 that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. The handle assembly 500 may also include a frame 506 that operably supports at least one drive system.

In at least one form, the handle assembly 500 and frame 506 can operably support a drive system 530 configured to apply a closing action and a firing action to an interchangeable surgical tool assembly attached thereto the corresponding part of . As described in detail in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM," (now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety), the drive System 530 may employ electric motor 505 located in pistol grip portion 504 of handle assembly 500 . In various forms, the motor 505 may be, for example, a DC brush drive motor with a maximum rotation of approximately 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor 505 may comprise a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 505 may be powered by a power source 522, which in one form may include a removable power source bank. The power pack may support a plurality of lithium ion ("LI") or other suitable batteries therein. Multiple batteries connected in series can be used as the power source 522 for the handle assembly 500 . Among other things, the power source 522 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

Referring primarily to FIG. 2 , electric motor 505 is configured to axially drive longitudinally movable drive member 540 in distal and proximal directions depending on the polarity of motor 505 . For example, when the motor 505 is driven in one rotational direction, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 will be driven axially in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 505 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 will be driven axially in the proximal direction "PD". The handle assembly 500 may include a switch 513 that may be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 505 by the power source 522 or otherwise control the motor 505 . The handle assembly 500 may also include one or more sensors (not shown) configured to detect the position of the drive member 540 and/or the direction in which the drive member 540 is moved. When the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is mounted to the handle assembly 500, the drive member 540 of the handle drive system 530 is coupled to the drive member 1602 of the tool drive system 1600 in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, and the drive member 1602 passes through A flexible firing rod 1770 is connected to a firing member 1760 in the end effector 1100 (see Figures 3-5).

During the firing stroke, the drive member 540 transmits the firing action via the drive member 1602 to the firing rod 1770 to fire the firing member 1760 . For example, actuation of the drive member 540 is configured to displace the firing rod 1770 and the firing member 1760 distally to cut tissue and effect firing of the staples from the staple cartridge. The drive member 540 can then be retracted proximally to retract the firing rod 1770 and the firing member 1760 proximally. The firing rod 1770 may comprise a laminated beam structure with at least two layers. The firing rod 1770 may be configured to flex within the articulation joint 1200 . The beam layers may comprise, for example, stainless steel strips interconnected together by, for example, welding or pinning at their proximal ends and/or elsewhere along their lengths. In an alternative embodiment, the distal ends of the straps are not connected together to allow the laminate or straps to unfold relative to each other when the end effector is articulated. This arrangement allows the firing rod 1770 to be flexible enough to accommodate articulation of the end effector 1100 . Various lamination cutter bar arrangements are disclosed in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. The reader will readily appreciate that, in certain examples, the various firing members described herein may be coupled to firing rod 1770 .

In various instances, handle assembly 500 may be configured to detect the type of interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 mounted or attached thereto. For example, handle assembly 500 may include a Hall effect sensor that may be configured to detect detectable elements, such as magnetic elements, for example, on an interchangeable surgical tool assembly such as interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 . Different interchangeable surgical tool assemblies may have different detectable elements and/or arrangements thereof. Various sensors for detecting different interchangeable surgical tool assemblies are described in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263564) entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIESFOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" , which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Based on the detected type of interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, the handle assembly 500 may perform certain surgical functions and/or may lock out certain surgical functions. For example, handle assembly 500 may include one or more discrete drive systems (eg, a closing drive system and a firing drive system), however, upon detection of interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000, handle assembly 500 may be disarmed or deactivated Certain drive systems (eg, the closing drive system can be deactivated and the firing drive system used to close and fire the end effector). For example, co-filed U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,941 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS" describes a handle including multiple actuation systems components, which patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 540 may have a rack (not shown) formed thereon for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear arrangement (not shown) connected to the motor 505 . Additional details regarding these features can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 (now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575) entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety This article. At least one form also includes a manually actuatable "rescue" assembly configured to enable a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 540 if the motor 505 becomes deactivated. The rescue assembly may include a lever or rescue handle assembly that is stored within handle assembly 500 under release door 550 . The lever is configured to be manually pivotable into ratchet engagement with teeth in the drive member 540 . Thus, the clinician can manually retract the drive member 540 by using the rescue handle assembly to engage the drive member 540 in the proximal direction PD. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12/249,117 (now U.S. Patent 8,608,045, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety), entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLEFIRING SYSTEM", discloses rescue devices and may also be Interchange other components, devices and systems used with surgical tool assembly 1000.

Still referring to FIG. 2, actuation of the motor 530 for the drive system 505 may be controlled by one or more actuators. In at least one form, drive system 530 may include an actuator in the form of closure trigger 512 pivotally supported by frame 506 . Such a configuration would allow the closure trigger 512 to be manipulated by the clinician such that when the clinician grasps the pistol grip portion 504 of the handle assembly 500, the closure trigger 512 can be easily removed from the activated or "unactuated" position Pivoting to an "actuated" position and more specifically to a fully compressed or fully actuated position. The closure trigger 512 can be used to apply a closing action and optionally an opening action to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 operably attached or coupled to the handle assembly 500 .

As described in further detail in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, Actuation system 530 (or another actuation system in handle assembly 500) is configured to lock closure trigger 512 in full depression or fully actuated position. When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 512 to allow it to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician need only activate the closure release button assembly 518, which enables the closure trigger 512 to return to the unactuated position. The close release button assembly 518 may also be configured to interface with various sensors that communicate with the microcontroller 520 (see FIG. 2 ) in the handle assembly 500 for tracking the position of the close trigger 512 . Additional details regarding the close-release button assembly 518 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 (now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575) entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ASENSOR SYSTEM", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Incorporated herein.

In at least one form, drive system 530 may also include an actuator in the form of firing trigger 532 pivotally supported by frame 506 . The firing trigger 532 is pivotable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firing trigger 532 may be biased to an unactuated position by a spring (not shown) or other biasing structure, such that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 532, it may be pivoted by the spring or biasing structure or otherwise. way back to the unactuated position. In at least one form, the firing trigger 532 may be positioned "outside" the closure trigger 512 . As described in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM" (now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272575, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety), handle assembly 500 A firing trigger safety button (not shown) may be provided to prevent inadvertent actuation of the firing trigger 532 . When the closure trigger 512 is in the unactuated position, the safety button is housed in the handle assembly 500, in which case the clinician cannot easily access the safety button and keep the safety button in a position that prevents actuation of the firing trigger 532. Moves between a safe position and a firing position in which the firing trigger 532 can be fired. When the clinician presses the closure trigger 512, the safety button and firing trigger 532 can be pivoted downward, which can then be manipulated by the clinician.

As described further herein, the closure trigger 512 may be configured to actuate the motor 505 to drive the drive system 530 a first degree and/or through a first series of actions, and the firing trigger 532 may be configured to actuate Motor 505 to drive drive system 530 a second degree and/or through a second series of actions. In other examples, handle assembly 500 may include a single actuator for closing and firing the end effector.

Referring primarily to FIG. 2 , interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a tool drive system 1600 that is supported for axial travel within spine assembly 1500 . In the illustrated embodiment, tool drive system 1600 includes a proximal drive shaft segment 1602 . The proximal drive shaft segment 1602 can be coupled to an intermediate drive member, such as the drive member 3540 (see FIGS. 30, 31, 33 and 35), and the intermediate drive member can be coupled to a firing rod terminating in a firing member, such as the firing rod 3770 and Firing member 1760 (see Figures 30, 31, 33 and 35). As can be seen in FIG. 2 , proximal attachment lugs 1606 protrude proximally from the proximal end of proximal drive shaft segment 1602 and are configured to be operably received in a longitudinally adjustable shaft supported in handle assembly 500 . The firing shaft in the moving drive member 540 is attached within the bracket 542 . When assembled, handle drive member 540 is configured to transmit motion to proximal drive shaft segment 1602 and ultimately to firing member 1760 via the intermediate drive member and the firing rod.

Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a shaft mounting portion 1300 operably attached to the elongated shaft assembly 1400 . A surgical end effector 1100 including an elongated channel 1102 is operably attached to the elongated shaft assembly 1400, wherein the elongated channel is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 1110 therein. The end effector 1100 may also include an anvil 1130 pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 1102 . The elongated channel 1102/cartridge assembly 1110 and the anvil 1130 may also be referred to as "jaws." The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 may also include an articulation joint 1200 (FIG. 1) and an articulation lock that may be configured to enable the end effector 1100 to be articulated about the articulation axis B-B (transverse to the shaft axis SA). ) is releasably held in the desired articulation position. Numerous details regarding the construction and operation of this articulation lock can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541, the entire disclosure of which is hereby Incorporated herein by reference. Additional details regarding this articulation lock can also be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196, filed February 9, 2016, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARYCONSTRAINT," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference method is incorporated herein.

Referring primarily to FIGS. 3-5 , the firing member 1760 is configured to operatively interface with the slider assembly 1120 , which is operably supported within the cartridge body 1111 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110 . Slider assembly 1120 is slidably displaced within surgical staple cartridge body 1111 from a proximal home position adjacent proximal end 1112 of cartridge body 1111 to a termination position adjacent distal end 1113 of cartridge body 1111 .

The staple pockets or cavities 1116 are aligned in rows on each side of the centrally positioned slot 1114 . The cavity 1116 passes through the upper platform surface 1115 of the cartridge body 1111 . The centrally positioned slot 1114 enables the firing member 1760 to pass therethrough and cut tissue held between the anvil 1130 and the staple cartridge 1110. Direct drive surgical staples or fasteners 1126 (see FIG. 5 ) are positioned in each staple cavity 1116 . Referring primarily to Figure 5, the staples 1126 are flat-shaped staples that may be cut and/or stamped, for example, from a sheet of material. For example, the sheet of material may be metallic, and may include stainless steel and/or titanium. In at least one example, contouring, etching, and/or cutting into a sheet of material that is machined and/or laser cut to shape the direct drive staples 1126 into the fabricated shape.

The staples 1126 include a pair of staple legs and a staple base portion or crown from which the staple legs extend. Each staple leg includes a staple tip or piercing portion configured to pierce tissue and contact a corresponding shaped pocket 1128 (see FIG. 6 ) of the anvil of the surgical stapling instrument. The staple legs are configured to change shape to achieve a shaped configuration to secure tissue. The staple base portion defines a first plane and the staple legs define a second plane that is laterally offset from the first plane but at least substantially parallel to the first plane. In other examples, the first and second planes may not be parallel.

Staple 1126 includes a drive surface on the base portion or crown. The drive surface is configured to receive drive force from the slider assembly 1120 . As the slider assembly 1120 is translated distally through the staple cartridge 1110, the slider assembly 1120 contacts the drive surface to lift the staples 1126 out of the staple cartridge 1110 and form the staples 1126 into their fired configuration. Direct drive staples such as staples 1126 are further described in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/836,324, filed August 26, 2015, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLES FOR MINIMIZING STAPLE ROLL," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

The slider assembly 1120 includes a plurality of inclined or wedge-shaped cams 1122, each of which is associated with a specific row of pins 1126 on one side of the centrally disposed slot 1114. When the firing member 1760 is fired or driven distally, the firing member 1760 also drives the slider assembly 1120 distally. As the firing member 1760 moves distally through the staple cartridge 1110 , the tissue cutting features 1766 cut tissue clamped between the anvil assembly 1130 and the staple cartridge 1110 and the slider assembly 1120 displaces the staples 1126 in the staple cartridge 1110 Drive up and into contact with the anvil assembly 1130 .

The firing member 1760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 1764 , an upper flange 1762 , and a support portion 1763 extending between the flanges 1762 and 1764 . The upper flange 1762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 1763 . The lower flange 1764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 1763 . Tissue cutting feature 1766 is supported by support portion 1763 between flanges 1762 and 1764. The support portion 1763 is configured to travel through aligned slots in the elongated channel 1102 , the staple cartridge 1110 and the anvil 1130 . For example, support portion 1763 extends through centrally positioned longitudinal channel slot 1104 in elongated channel 1102 such that lower flange 1764 is movably positioned within passageway 1106 (see FIGS. 10 and 11 ) defined by elongated channel 1102 . For example, passageway 1106 may be defined below cartridge support base 1101 of elongated channel 1102.

The support portion 1763 also extends through the centrally positioned anvil slot 1132 in the anvil 1130 such that the upper flange 1762 is movably positioned within the passageway 1136 defined by the anvil 1130 (see FIGS. 10 and 11 ). For example, passageway 1136 may be defined through anvil 1130 . I-beam flanges 1762 and 1764 provide camming surfaces that interface with elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130, respectively, to open and clamp or close the jaws, as described further herein. Additionally, the firing member 1760 is configured to maintain a constant distance between the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130 along the length of the end effector 1100 to ensure proper tissue clearance.

Referring now primarily to FIG. 6, the anvil 1130 includes a downwardly extending sidewall 1133, commonly referred to as a "tissue stop." Tissue stop 1133 is configured to prevent target tissue from getting too close between anvil 1130 and staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 3-5). For example, tissue stop 1133 extends toward staple cartridge 1110 (see FIG. 3). When the anvil 1130 is closed toward the staple cartridge 1110, the tissue stops 1133 on either side of the anvil 1130 extend down beyond the cartridge deck surface 1115 and form a wall or barrier that prevents tissue from positioning between the anvil 1130 and the staples The bins 1110 are too close together. Additionally or alternatively, the elongated channel 1102 may include an upwardly extending tissue stop for blocking proximal tissue.

Anvil 1130 also includes inner rails 1135 that extend downwardly toward cartridge 1110 . Inner rail 1135 extends parallel to tissue stop 1133 and is positioned laterally inboard of tissue stop 1133 . The inner rail 1135 is configured to guide the anvil 1130 relative to the elongated channel 1102 as the anvil 1130 pivots relative to the elongated channel 1102 . For example, inner rail 1135 can nest within sidewall 1103 of elongated channel 1102 and tissue stop 1133 can be positioned outside of sidewall 1103 of elongated channel 1102 when anvil 1130 is pivoted toward the closed position. In various cases, as the anvil 1130 approaches the staple cartridge 1110, the inner rails 1135 can slide or move about the inner surfaces of the side walls 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 to ensure that the anvil 1130 remains attached to the elongated channel 1102 and installed The staple cartridge 1110 therein is properly aligned.

Slots 1132 in the anvil 1130 extend from the proximal end to the distal end of the anvil 1130 . Referring primarily to FIG. 6 , the slot 1132 and passageway 1136 extend to a t-shaped opening 1129 at the distal end of the anvil 1130 , which may provide an assembly path for the firing member 1760 . For example, the firing member 1760 can be inserted into the anvil 1130 from the distal end at the t-shaped opening 1129 and retracted proximally to a home position prior to insertion of the staple cartridge 1110 into the elongated channel 1102.

Referring now primarily to FIG. 7 , elongated channel 1102 includes side walls 1103 and pin holes 1108 defined in proximal portions of each side wall 1103 . The elongated channel 1102 also includes a plate 1105 attached to the underside of the cartridge support base 1101 of the elongated channel 1102 . For example, the plate 1105 can be laser welded to the elongated channel 1102 and the structural integrity of the elongated channel 1102 can be increased. For example, plate 1105 may be configured to prevent and/or limit bending, twisting, and/or deformation of elongated channel 1102 during a suturing operation. Plate 1105 is positioned over a portion of longitudinal channel slot 1104 and can define passageway 1106 through elongated channel 1102 . For example, the passageway 1106 for the lower flange 1764 may be defined by the plate 1105 and the cartridge support base 1101 . Openings 1107 in plate 1105 are positioned along its length to provide viewing of the firing member 1760 as it traverses longitudinal channel slot 1104 during the firing stroke. For example, the operator can observe the progression of the firing member 1760 through the opening 1107 throughout the firing stroke.

Referring now primarily to FIGS. 8-12 , the pivot joint 1150 for the end effector 1100 is shown. The pivot joint 1150 includes a pivot pin 1152 (see FIG. 8 ) at which the anvil 1130 pivots relative to the elongated channel 1102 . Although only a single pivot pin 1152 is shown in FIG. 8 , the reader will readily understand that symmetrical pivot pins 1152 are located on opposite sides of the end effector 1100 . Symmetrical pivot pin 1152 is shown in FIG. 5 . Pivot pins 1152 extend through holes 1131 on each side of anvil 1130 and into pin holes 1108 on each respective side of elongated channel 1102 . For example, pivot pin 1152 may be pressed into aperture 1131 . At the beginning of the firing stroke, the firing member 1760 is configured to be able to move distally from an initial or home position (FIG. 10). As the firing member 1760 is moved distally, the anvil 1130 is pivoted toward the clamping configuration by the I-beam structure of the firing member 1760 . More specifically, the lower flange 1764 of the firing member 1760 moves through the passageway 1106 defined by the elongated channel 1102 and the upper flange 1762 moves along the ramp surface 1134 of the anvil 1130 and then through the passageway defined by the anvil 1130 1136.

Referring primarily to FIGS. 10 and 11 , ramp surface 1134 defines an open-close cavity 1148 in anvil 1130 through which a portion of firing member 1760 extends during a portion of the firing stroke. For example, upper flange 1762 protrudes from anvil 1130 via opening and closing cavity 1148 during a portion of the firing stroke. The ramp surface 1134 slopes downward along the proximal open surface 1142 , extends along the middle portion 1138 , and slopes upward along the distal closure ramp 1140 . When the firing member 1760 is in the initial or home position (see FIG. 10 ), the upper flange 1762 is spaced from the intermediate portion 1138 . In other words, the upper flange 1762 is not in camming engagement with the opening and closing cavity 1148 . In the home position, the firing member 1760 may rest or hover relative to the opening and closing cavity 1148 such that the firing member 1760 applies neither an opening nor a closing force to the anvil 1130 .

From the home position (see Figure 10), the firing member 1760 can be retracted proximally. The retracted position of the firing member 1760 is shown in FIG. 11 . As the firing member 1760 continues to move proximally, the upper flange 1762 of the firing member 1760 that engages the proximal open surface 1142 is configured to apply an opening force on the proximal open surface 1142 . As the upper flange 1762 moves against the proximal open surface 1142, the proximal open surface 1142 pivots, which causes a pivotal opening action of the anvil 1130. Proximal open surface 1142 is positioned proximal of pivot joint 1150 . Thus, when the upper flange 1762 exerts a downward force on the proximal open surface 1142, the anvil 1130 is pushed upward by leverage on the proximal open surface 1142.

The ramp surface 1134 also includes a fillet 1144 between the intermediate portion 1138 and the proximal open surface 1142 . In some examples, the proximal end of the open-close lumen 1148 can include an open ramp that can extend to a protruding tail. The upper flange 1762 of the firing member 1760 may be configured to cam engage the open ramp and/or the protruding tail to create an opening action for the end effector 1100 . In certain instances, the upper flange 1762 can also include a proximally extending boss that can be configured to generate an additional opening action, as described further herein.

From the retracted position (see FIG. 11 ), the firing member 1760 can be advanced distally to return to the home position (see FIG. 10 ). To close the end effector, the firing member 1760 can be further advanced from the home position to the advanced position shown in FIG. 12 . The upper flange 1762 is spaced from the ramp surface 1134 for a portion of the firing action intermediate the retracted and advanced positions. For example, upper flange 1762 hovers or rests over intermediate portion 1138 as firing member 1760 transitions between a closing action (see FIG. 12 ) and an opening action (see FIG. 11 ). For example, the dwell portion of the firing action may be configured to prevent jamming of the opening action and/or the closing action.

The firing member 1760 moves into contact with the ramp surface 1134 and its distal closure ramp 1140 in the advanced position shown in FIG. 12 . As the firing member 1760 is advanced distally, the upper flange 1762 moves along the distal closure ramp 1140 to clamp the anvil 1130 relative to the elongated channel 1102. The distal closure ramp 1140 is positioned distal of the pivot joint 1150 . Thus, when the upper flange 1762 exerts a downward force on the distal closure ramp 1140, the anvil 1130 is pushed downward.

As the firing member 1760 continues to be advanced distally, the upper flange 1762 moves through the passageway 1136 to ensure a constant distance between the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 along the length of the end effector 1100. For example, passageway 1136 includes a lower flange 1137 and an upper cover 1139 that define the lower and upper limits of passageway 1136 . During the firing stroke, the upper flange 1762 is constrained within these lower and upper limits. The upper flange 1762 may be sized to fit snugly within the confines of the passageway 1136 . In other examples, the upper flange 1762 may be configured to float and/or adjust vertically within the clearance provided by the passageway 1136 or a portion thereof, as further described herein.

The firing member 1760 is a multifunctional firing member. For example, the firing member 1760 is configured to drive the slider assembly 1120 to fire the direct drive staples 1126 from the staple cartridge 1110, cut the tissue sandwiched between the jaws 1102 and 1130, cause the jaws 1102 and 1130 is cammed into a clamped configuration, and jaws 1102 and 1130 are cammed into an open configuration upon completion of the firing stroke. In other words, the firing member 1760 is configured to perform the surgical function in combination with a single actuation system. Thus, the multifunctional firing member 1760 may minimize the need for a separate actuation system to fit within the footprint of the end effector 1100 .

In other examples, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly may include a closure tube for opening and closing the jaws of the end effector. The closure tube may be configured to translate relative to the end effector. For example, the closure tube may be configured to bias the jaws of the end effector closed when the closure tube is translated over the end effector. In certain instances, the spring can be configured to bias the jaws of the end effector toward the open configuration, and the closure tube can overcome the spring bias to close the jaws.

An interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 including an end effector 7100 and a distal closure tube 7430 is shown in FIGS. 13-17 . The end effector 7100 includes an anvil 7130 and an elongated channel 7102, which are similar to the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102, respectively. The closure assembly 7406 is used to close and/or open the anvil 7130 and the elongated channel 7102 of the end effector 7100. Closure assembly 7406 includes intermediate closure member 7410 and distal closure member 7430. Intermediate closure member 7410 and distal closure member 7430 are coupled together by upper dual pivot connection 7220.

In the illustrated arrangement, the distal closure member 7430 includes a hollow tubular member slidably supported relative to the end effector 7100. Accordingly, the distal closure member 7430 may also be referred to herein as a distal closure tube. Actuating the closure trigger 512 on the surgical instrument handle assembly 500 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ) can cause axial movement of the closure assembly 7406 including the distal closure tube 7430 . A closure spring (not shown) can also be journaled on the closure assembly 7406 and used to bias the closure assembly 7406 in the proximal direction "PD", which can be operatively coupled to the handle at the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 7000 Assembly 500 is used to pivot closure trigger 512 into an unactuated position. In use, closure assembly 7406 is configured to translate distally (direction DD) to close anvil 7130, eg, in response to actuation of closure trigger 512.

Figures 13 and 14 show the anvil 7130 and elongated channel 7102 ("jaws") in a closed position. As the distal closure member 7430 is advanced in the distal direction DD, the distal end 7431 of the distal closure member 7430 can be configured to close the cam surface formed on the anvil mounting wall and formed proximal of the elongated channel 7102 Travel on closed cam surfaces on the ends. When the clinician desires to move the anvil 7130 and elongated channel 7102 to the open position, the distal closure member 7430 is moved in the proximal direction PD. The actuation of the closure trigger and closure assembly, including its distal closure tube, is described in concurrently filed US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,956 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES," which is hereby The entire contents are incorporated herein by reference.

Referring now primarily to FIG. 17 , the firing member 7760 is positioned in the end effector 7100 . The firing member 7760 is configured to translate through the end effector 7100 during the firing stroke to move the slider assembly 7120 through the end effector 7100 and cut tissue sandwiched between the jaws of the end effector 7100 . Anvil 7130 includes passageway 7136 configured to receive a portion of firing member 7760 during the firing stroke. For example, an upper flange on firing member 7760 may be movably positioned in passageway 7136.

The anvil 7130 also includes a channel 7138 (see Figures 13 and 15) through which the rod 7140 extends. Referring primarily to FIG. 17 , the rod 7140 includes a proximal end 7142 and a distal end 7144 . The distal end 7144 is operably positioned to engage the distal nose 7150 of the anvil 7130, as described further herein. The proximal end 7142 is operably positioned in abutting contact with the distal end 7431 of the distal closure tube 7430. As the distal closure tube 7430 is moved distally to complete the closure of the anvil 7130, the distal end 7431 of the distal closure tube 7430 can be moved into abutting contact with the proximal end 7142 of the rod 7140. Thus, when the closing action is complete, the rod 7140 is extended or pushed distally, which causes the distal nose 7150 to pivot. 15-17, after the anvil 7130 has been moved into the closed configuration by the distal closure tube 7430, the rod 7140 is pushed distally by the closure tube 7430 to pivot the distal nose 7150.

Referring again to FIGS. 13 and 15 , the channel 7138 extends from the proximal portion of the anvil 7130 to the distal nose 7150 . The distal nose 7150 is pivotally connected to the body of the anvil 7130 at a pivot joint 7152. The resilient support 7154 is configured to hold the distal nose 7150 in a linear or non-pivoting position (see Figures 13 and 14). The elastic support 7154 may be an elastic member or spring, such as a leaf spring or a hairpin spring. As the rod 7140 extends distally, its distal end 7144 engages the distal nose 7150 and overcomes the resilient support 7154. For example, rod 7140 has been extended in Figures 15-17 to pivot distal nose 7150 to a pivoted position. In the pivoted position, the distal nose 7150 is configured to clamp tissue against the distal nose portion of the staple cartridge. Such gripping features are configured to capture or retain a distal portion of tissue and restrict tissue flow during the firing stroke. For example, increased clamping pressure may be applied by the end effector 7100 at its distal end portion.

As discussed above, in some instances, the upper flange 1762 of the firing member may hover without contacting the ramp surface 1134 for part of the firing action (see FIG. 10 ). For example, ramp surface 1134 may include an intermediate surface 1138 extending between distal closure ramp 1140 and proximal closure surface 1142 . Intermediate surface 1124 may separate distal closure ramp 1140 from proximal closure surface 1142 such that surfaces 1140 and 1142 are separate and distinct.

For example, while the closure trigger 512 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ) may pivot in a series of actions to displace the firing member 1760 , the pivoting action is not configured to cause a corresponding pivoting action of the anvil 1130 . In other words, during the series of actions of the closure trigger 512, the actuation of the closure trigger 512 is disproportionate to the closing and opening actions of the anvil 1130. In certain instances, it is desirable to provide feedback to the anvil 1130 throughout the firing motion, ie, to achieve its pivoting, including when the upper flange 1762 is between engagement with the distal closure ramp 1140 and engagement with the proximal closure surface 1142 When hovering over intermediate surface 1138. For example, the spring assembly may be configured to apply a biasing force on the anvil 1130 during the dwell portion of the firing stroke.

Referring now to FIG. 54 , the spring assembly 1160 is positioned proximal of the upper flange 1762 of the firing member 1760 . Spring assembly 1160 includes tubular member 1162 and a compression spring 1164 positioned partially within tubular member 1162 . Tubular member 1162 is positioned in a proximal notch or recess 1149 in anvil 1130 . For example, the anvil 1130 includes a proximal notch 1149 extending proximally from the opening and closing cavity 1148 . Spring assembly 1160 is retained in recess 1149 and positioned to operably engage firing member 1760 .

The spring assembly 1160 is configured to enable the opening action of the anvil 1130 when the upper flange 1762 hovers over the intermediate surface 1138 . The upper flange 1762 may be configured to move into contact with the compression spring 1164 when the anvil 1130 is in the closed configuration and the firing member 1760 is in the home position. The firing member 1760 may be configured to compress the compression spring 1164 into the tubular member 1162 as the firing member 1760 continues to retract proximally. The compression of the compression spring 1164 is configured to exert a force on the anvil 1130 that may correspond to an opening force on the anvil 1130 . For example, spring assembly 1160 may be configured to apply proximal and downward forces on the distal-facing surface of recess 1149 to effect upward pivoting of anvil 1130 toward the open configuration.

In various circumstances, the compression spring 1164 may be compressed by the firing member 1760 until the upper flange 1762 moves into engagement with the proximal closure surface 1142 . Compression spring 1164 may define a spring force sufficient to initiate opening of anvil 1130 before upper flange 1762 is moved into abutting engagement with proximal closure surface 1142 . In various cases, the spring force can be adjusted to provide adequate feedback during the dwell portion of the firing stroke. In some instances, the compression spring 1164 may be compressed to the height of the tubular member 1162 . When the compression spring 1164 is fully compressed within the tubular member 1162, the opening action may be proportional to the proximal displacement of the firing member 1760 and the corresponding actuation action of the closure trigger 512.

In various cases, when the anvil 1130 is fully open relative to the elongated channel 1102, a tissue aperture may be defined between the forming surface of the anvil 1130 and the platform 1115 of the staple cartridge 1110 positioned in the elongated channel 1102. When the anvil 1130 is fully open, the tissue aperture can be quantified as the vertical height between the anvil-forming surface and the platform 1115 at the distal end of the end effector 1100 . In certain instances, it may be desirable to increase the tissue aperture without increasing the angle between the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102. In such cases, the proximal end of the anvil 1130 can be configured to be movable away from the elongated channel 1102 to increase the tissue aperture at the distal end.

For example, referring now to FIG. 55 , the elongated channel 11102 includes a vertical slot 11108 for allowing vertical movement of the anvil 1130 relative to the elongated channel 11102 . Elongated channel 11102 is similar in many respects to elongated channel 1102; however, elongated channel 11102 includes vertical slots 11108 instead of pin holes 1108 (see Figure 5). The elongated channel 11102 can be used with an end effector 11100 that also includes an anvil 1130 and is configured to receive a staple cartridge 1110 . Anvil 1130 is pivotally connected to elongated channel 11102 by pivot pins 11152 operably engaged by springs 11154 . The spring 11154 is configured to bias the pivot pin 11152 in the vertical slot 11108 downwardly. The spring 11154 shown in Figure 55 is a leaf spring; however, the reader will readily understand that alternative spring geometries and configurations may be used. When the pivot pin 11152 is positioned at the bottom of the vertical slot 11108, the end effector 11100 defines a first tissue aperture. When the pivot pin 11152 is allowed to move up to the top of the vertical slot 11108, the end effector 11100 defines a second, larger tissue aperture.

In various cases, when the firing member is retracted proximally out of engagement with the distal closure ramp 1140 on the anvil 1130, the pivot pin 11152 may be allowed to overcome the spring 11154 and "pop" up in the vertical slot 11108 or bounce. For example, pivot pin 11152 is configured to translate upwardly in vertical slot 11108 when the firing member is moved to rest or hover over intermediate surface 1138 on anvil 1130 . Still referring to Figure 55, the firing member 11760 is configured to raise the pivot pin 11152 upward. For example, firing member 11760 is similar in many respects to firing member 1760; however, firing member 11760 includes wedge-shaped projections 11770 having ramp surfaces 11772 for engaging and raising pivot pin 11152 in vertical slot 11108. Although only a single wedge-shaped protrusion 11170 is shown in FIG. 55 , the reader will readily understand that a pair of symmetrical wedges 11170 are positioned on opposite sides of the firing member 11760 .

When the firing member 11760 is retracted proximally to exert an opening action on the anvil 1130, the anvil 1130 is configured to be vertically translatable away from the elongated channel 11102 to increase the tissue orifice. Additionally, when the firing member 11760 is advanced distally during a subsequent closing action, the wedge-shaped projection 11770 is configured to move out of engagement with the pivot pin 11152 such that the spring 11154 can return the pivot pin 11152 to its vertical position The initial position of the bottom of the slot 11108. In each case, the pivot pin 11152 is configured to return to the bottom of the vertical slot 11108 before the upper flange of the firing member 11760 engages the distal closure ramp 1140 of the anvil 1130 to affect its closure.

In certain instances, the end effector may be configured to clamp and staple tissue over a range of thicknesses. The end effector can grip tissue having a first thickness during a first surgical function and can grip tissue having a different thickness during a second surgical function. In certain surgical functions, the thickness of the tissue sandwiched between the end effector jaws may be constant or substantially constant. In other examples, the end effector may be configured to clamp and staple tissue of varying or varying thickness. For example, the thickness of tissue sandwiched between the jaws of the end effector may vary longitudinally along the length of the end effector.

As described herein, the firing member may include a flange for setting the tissue gap between the end effector jaws. For example, the upper flange can be configured to move along a channel in the anvil, and the lower flange can be configured to move along one of the elongated channels during the firing stroke. The flange of the firing member includes camming surfaces configured to engage the inner surfaces of the corresponding channels to limit the tissue gap between the jaws. For example, the flanges may define a maximum and/or minimum spacing between jaws, which is equivalent to limiting the distance between a tissue-contacting platform on a staple cartridge mounted in the end effector and the tissue-facing anvil of the end effector spacing. In some instances, the maximum and minimum spacings defined by the firing member flanges may be fixed. In other examples, one or both of the flanges may be configured to float or shift to accommodate changes in tissue thickness. For example, the flange may shift during the firing stroke or a portion thereof.

Referring now to Figures 18-21, the upper portion of the firing member 8760 is shown. The firing member 8760 is similar in many respects to the firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 8760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange (not shown), an upper flange 8762, and a support portion 8763 extending between the lower and upper flanges 8764. The upper flange 8762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 8763. For example, the lower flange may be the same as lower flange 1764 (see Figures 4 and 5). The tissue cutting feature 8766 is supported by the support portion 8763 between the flanges.

The support portion 8763 is configured to travel through aligned slots in the elongated channel, staple cartridge, and anvil. For example, the firing member 8760 may be compatible with the end effector 1100 (see FIGS. 1-5 ) such that the support portion 8763 travels through aligned slots in the elongated channel 1102 , the staple cartridge 1110 and the anvil 1130 . Similar to firing member 1760, when firing member 8760 is fired or driven distally, firing member 8760 is configured to also drive the slider assembly distally. Also, as the firing member 8760 is moved distally through the staple cartridge, the tissue cutting features 8766 are configured to cut from the ends as the slider assembly drives the staples up in the staple cartridge 1110 and comes into contact with the anvil 1130 Tissue gripped by the actuator 1100.

The firing member 8760 includes a slot 8761 extending along an upper portion of the support portion 8763. The slot 8761 is a wedge-shaped slot, and the height of the slot 8761 varies longitudinally along the length of the firing member 8760. More specifically, the height of the slot 8761 at the proximal end 8765 is greater than the height at the distal end 8767. In other examples, the height of the slot 8761 may be constant, but the slot 8761 may be oriented obliquely, sloped, and/or non-horizontal along the length of the firing member 8760 . Slot 8761 includes an upper edge 8768 that defines a maximum tissue gap. As described herein, the upper flange or pin 8762 is configured to move within the slot 8761 to adjust tissue clearance. Additionally, when a load is applied to the upper pin 8762, the upper pin 8762 is configured to slide along the upper edge 8768 as the upper pin 8762 moves in the slot 8761.

Referring primarily to FIG. 18A , the upper pin 8762 includes a central groove 8770 that guides the upper pin 8762 within the slot 8761. For example, upper edge 8768 is configured to extend into groove 8770 when upper pin 8762 is positioned in slot 8761. In other embodiments, the upper pin 8762 can include guide blocks that can be secured to the pin 8762 on one or both sides of the support portion 8763. The center slot 8770 and/or the guide block can be configured to prevent twisting or kinking of the upper pin 8762 during the firing stroke and as the upper pin 8762 moves in the slot 8761 . For example, the guide block can be welded to pin 8762. In other examples, one or more guide blocks may be secured to the support portion 8763.

The first or initial configuration of the firing member 8760 is shown in FIG. 19 . The upper pin 8762 is held in place by friction in the first configuration. For example, upper pin 8762 can be compressed and press fit within slot 8761. In the first configuration, the upper pin 8762 is positioned near the distal end 8767 of the slot 8761. The first height H ₁ is defined between the upper pin 8762 and the lower flange when the firing member 8760 is in the first configuration. More specifically, the first height H ₁ is defined between the upper surface of the lower flange and the lower surface of the upper pin 8762 . The first height H ₁ corresponds to the minimum tissue gap defined by the firing member 8760 .

Still referring to Figure 19, the upper edge 8768 of the slot 8761 extends along the inward contour. In other words, the upper edge 8768 defines the compression radius R. The inward contour of the upper edge 8768 applies a compressive force to the upper pin 8762 that attempts to hold the upper pin 8762 in the distal-most position in the slot 8761 against the distal end 8767 .

Referring now to FIG. 20, a force F may be applied to the upper pin 8762 during the firing stroke. For example, when tissue is clamped between the jaws of the end effector, the tissue may be compressed by the jaws. Thus, the compressed tissue is configured to exert an opening force on the jaws, and this force is applied to the upper pin 8762 and lower flange of the firing member 8760. The force F is greater when the clamped tissue experiences increased compression, such as when thicker tissue is clamped between the jaws. The force F in FIG. 20 is sufficient to deflect the inward profile of the upper edge 8768, which deflects the upper boundary of the firing member 8760 and relieves compression on the upper pin 8762 in the slot 8761. The force F is equal to or greater than the threshold force required to deflect the upper edge 8768 and release the upper pin 8762. In Figure 20, the force F on the upper pin 8762 moves the firing member 8760 to the pressure configuration.

Because the upper pin 8762 has been released by force F, the upper pin 8762 is free to slide in the proximal direction (PD) within the slot 8761 (see Figure 20). For example, the upper pin 8762 has been moved to the proximal upper position in FIG. 21 . In the proximal upper position of Figure 21, a second height _H2 is defined between the upper pin 8762 and the lower flange. More specifically, the second height H ₂ is defined between the upper surface of the lower flange and the lower surface of the upper pin 8762 . The second height H ₂ corresponds to the maximum tissue gap or tissue gap when the firing member 8760 is in the accommodating configuration. In such cases, the firing member 8760 is configured to allow for greater tissue clearance during the second portion of the firing stroke. As described herein, in some instances, it may be desirable to further limit the maximum tissue clearance during the initial portion of the firing stroke, when the load may be highest to prevent the firing member 8760 from sticking.

The upper pin 8762 is configured to be capable of transitioning to the proximal upper position shown in FIG. 21 when a force equal to or greater than a threshold force is applied to the upper pin 8762. Because force F is exerted upward on upper pin 8762, force F biases upper pin 8762 along upper edge 8768 of slot 8761 and maintains alignment of slot 8770 and upper edge 8768. Accordingly, the firing member 8760 is configured to adjust or accommodate changes in tissue thickness.

In other examples, the firing member 8760 can be configured to define a reduced tissue gap during the distal portion of the firing stroke. In such cases, the compression at the distal end of the end effector may be increased. For example, the upper surface 8768 of the slot 8761 may slope downwardly towards the proximal end of the firing member 8760 such that the height of the slot 8761 is greatest at the distal end 8767 of the slot 8761, rather than as shown in Figures 19-23 shown.

Referring now to Figure 21A, the upper pin 8762 is shown in a loaded configuration. To load the upper pin 8762 into the slot 8761 , the upper pin 8762 can be aligned with the largest or highest portion of the slot 8761 , which is located at the proximal end 8765 . The upper pin 8762 can slide from the proximal end 8765 toward the distal end 8767 such that the upper edge 8768 protrudes into the central groove 8770 in the upper pin 8762 and confines the upper pin 8762 in the slot 8761 . For example, when the firing member 8760 is advanced distally, the upper pin 8762 is configured to slide toward the distal end 8767 and into the configuration shown in FIG. 19 . A first load on the upper pin 8762 can bias the upper pin 8762 distally and into a compressed state at the distal end 8767, and a second, larger load on the upper pin 8762 can deform the firing member 8760 to release the upper Compression in pin 8762 and allow it to slide proximally, as described herein.

Although the firing member 8760 has been described as having a single floating flange, the upper flange 8762, in other examples the lower flange may be configured to float and float when a force equal to or greater than the second threshold force is applied to it. / or transfer. For example, the upper flange 8762 can be configured to be translated when a first force is applied by compressed tissue, and the lower flange can be configured to be translated when a second, greater force is applied by compressed tissue. In other examples, only the lower flange may be configured to be able to transfer and/or float.

Referring now to Figures 22-23, the upper portion of the firing member 9760 is shown. Firing member 9760 is similar in many respects to firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 9760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange, an upper flange 9762, and a support portion 9763 extending between the lower and upper flanges 9764. The upper flange 9762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 9763. For example, the lower flange may be the same as lower flange 1764 (see Figures 4 and 5). The tissue cutting feature 9766 is supported by the support portion 9763 between the flanges.

The support portion 9763 is configured to travel through aligned slots in the elongated channel, staple cartridge, and anvil. For example, the firing member 9760 may be compatible with the end effector 1100 (see FIGS. 1-5 ) such that the support portion 9763 travels through aligned slots in the elongated channel 1102 , the staple cartridge 1110 and the anvil 1130 . Similar to firing member 1760, when firing member 9760 is fired or driven distally, firing member 9760 is configured to also drive the slider assembly distally. Also, as the firing member 9760 is moved distally through the staple cartridge, the tissue cutting features 9766 are configured to be cut by the end effector as the slider assembly drives the staples up in the staple cartridge and into contact with the anvil Clamped tissue.

The firing member 9760 includes a slot 9761 extending along an upper portion of the support portion 9763. The slot 9761 is a wedge-shaped slot, and the height of the slot 9761 varies longitudinally along the length of the firing member 9760. More specifically, the height of the slot 9761 at the proximal end 9765 is greater than the height at the distal end 9767. Additionally or alternatively, the slot 9761 may be oriented obliquely, slanted and/or non-horizontal such that the distal end 9767 is higher than the proximal end 9765. Slot 9761 includes an upper edge 9768 that defines a maximum tissue gap. As described herein, the upper flange or pin 9762 is configured to be movable in the slot 9761 to adjust tissue clearance, and the upper pin 9762 slides along the upper edge 9768 as the upper pin 9762 moves in the slot 9761. The firing member 9760 also includes a spring 9769 configured to exert a biasing force on the upper pin 9762.

The upper pin 9762 includes a central groove 9770 that guides the upper pin 9762 within the slot 9761. For example, upper edge 9768 is configured to extend into groove 9770 when upper pin 9762 is positioned in slot 9761. In the embodiment shown, upper pin 9762 includes guide blocks 9780 secured to both sides of support portion 9763. The guide block 9780 may be configured to prevent twisting or kinking of the upper pin 9762 during the firing stroke and as the upper pin 9762 moves in the slot 9761 . In other examples, one or more guide blocks may be secured to upper pin 9762, and in other examples, firing member 9760 may not include guide blocks.

The first or initial configuration of the firing member 9760 is shown in FIG. 22 . Upper pin 9762 is held in place by spring 9769. For example, spring 9769 is configured to bias upper pin 9762 toward distal end 9767 of slot 9761. The first height H ₁ is defined between the upper pin 9762 and the lower flange when the firing member 9760 is in the first configuration. More specifically, the first height H ₁ is defined between the upper surface of the lower flange and the lower surface of the upper pin 9762 . The first height H ₁ corresponds to the minimum tissue gap.

Still referring to Figure 22, when tissue is clamped between the jaws of the end effector, the tissue can be compressed by the jaws. Thus, the compressed tissue can exert an opening force on the jaws, and this force is applied to the upper pin 9762 and lower flange of the firing member 9760. The force F is greater when the clamped tissue experiences increased compression, such as when thicker tissue is clamped between the jaws. When the force F is equal to or greater than the threshold force, the force F can be configured to overcome the bias of the spring 9769, as shown in FIG. 23 . For example, force F is sufficient to deform spring 9769 into a compressed configuration and allow upper pin 9762 to move along slot 9761 toward its proximal end 9765.

The upper pin 9762 has been moved to the proximal upper position in FIG. 23 . In the proximal upper position of Figure 23, a second height _H2 is defined between the upper pin 9762 and the lower flange. More specifically, the second height H ₂ is defined between the upper surface of the lower flange and the lower surface of the upper pin 9762 . The second height H ₂ corresponds to the maximum tissue gap or tissue gap when the firing member 9760 is in the accommodated configuration. Because force F ( FIG. 22 ) is exerted upward on upper pin 9762 , force F biases upper pin 9762 along upper edge 9768 of slot 9761 and maintains alignment of slot 9770 and upper edge 9768 . Accordingly, the firing member 9760 is configured to adjust or accommodate changes in tissue thickness.

Although the firing member 9760 has been described as having a single floating flange, the upper flange 9762, in other examples the lower flange may be configured to float and float when a force equal to or greater than the second threshold force is applied to it. / or transfer. For example, the upper flange 9762 can be configured to be transferred when a first force is applied by compressed tissue, and the lower flange can be configured to be transferred when a second, greater force is applied by compressed tissue. In other examples, only the lower flange may be configured to be able to transfer and/or float.

As described herein, the firing member can include at least one floating flange, which can be configured to shift or move to accommodate changes in tissue thickness when a threshold force is applied thereto. In certain instances, the floating flange can be positioned in the slot and can be biased and/or maintained in an initial configuration until a threshold force is applied to it. In other examples, a portion of the firing member may comprise a deformable or compliant material, which may be configured to bend or otherwise deform when a threshold force is applied thereto. In certain instances, the compliant core of the firing member may support at least one flange configured to be able to shift or move when a threshold force is applied thereto.

Referring now to FIGS. 24-26, a portion of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 10000 including an end effector 10100 is shown. The end effector 10100 includes an elongated channel 1102 and an anvil 1130, and a staple cartridge 1110 is mounted in the elongated channel 1102. The end effector 10100 also includes a firing member 10760, which is similar in many respects to the firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 10760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 10764, an upper flange 10762, and a support portion 10763 extending between the lower and upper flanges 10762. The upper flange 10762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 10763. The lower flange 10764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 10763. Tissue cutting feature 10766 is supported by support portion 10763 between flanges 10762 and 10764.

The support portion 10763 is configured to travel through aligned slots in the elongated channel 1102 , the staple cartridge 1110 and the anvil 1130 . Similar to firing member 1760, when firing member 10760 is fired or driven distally, firing member 10760 is configured to also drive slider assembly 1120 distally. Also, as the firing member 10760 is moved distally through the staple cartridge, the tissue cutting features 10766 are configured to drive the staples 1126 upwardly in the staple cartridge 1110 with the slider assembly 1120 (see FIG. 5 ) and form contact with the anvil 1130 contacts to cut tissue held by end effector 10100.

Still referring to FIGS. 24-26 , the firing member 10760 includes a body 10772 and a compliant portion or core 10770 embedded in the body 10772 . For example, the body 10772 includes a cutout or cavity 10774 in which the compliant portion 10770 is positioned. The compliant portion 10770 includes an upper flange 10762. As further described herein, the upper flange 10762 is configured to be able to transfer or move as the compliant portion 10770 deforms.

The elasticity of the body 10772 may be less than the elasticity of the compliant core 10770 . In certain examples, the compliant core 10770 can be formed from a shape memory material, such as a Nitinol, which can provide a constant elastic ratio throughout its vertical bending range. Additionally, the body 10772 of the firing member 10760 may be formed from a non-compliant or substantially less compliant material, such as stainless steel or titanium.

The compliant portion 10770 includes a first end 10776 and a second end 10778. The first end 10776 is retained or secured in a cutout 10774 in the body 10772. For example, the cutout 10774 may securely enclose the first end 10776 to prevent movement of the first end 10776 within the body 10772. The second end 10778 supports the upper flange 10762 . For example, the upper flange 10762 can be integrally formed with and/or can be securely attached to the second end 10778. The second end 10778 is provided with a gap 10780 within the cutout 10774 to allow controlled deflection of the second end 10778 therein. For example, the second end 10778 and the upper flange 10762 supported thereon are configured to be translatable relative to the first end 10776 and relative to the lower flange 10764 in response to a force applied to the upper flange 10762 . Movement of the upper flange 10762 is limited by the geometry of the cutout 10774 and the passageway 1136 defined in the anvil 1130.

As described with respect to the firing member 1760 (see FIGS. 4 and 5 ), the firing member 10760 is configured to engage the opening and closing cavity 1148 of the anvil 1130 to move the anvil 1130 to the clamped position. For example, the upper flange 10762 of the firing member 10760 is configured to move along the distal closure ramp 1140 (see FIGS. 8-12 ) of the anvil 1130 and into the passageway 1136 . The passageway 1136 includes a lower flange 1137 and an upper cover 1139 that define the lower and upper limits of the passageway 1136 .

In Figure 24, the firing member 10760 has been displaced distally from the home position to the first intermediate position. Between the home position and the first intermediate position, the upper flange 10762 has moved along the distal closure ramp 1140 to pivot the anvil 1130 toward the staple cartridge 1110 and sandwich tissue therebetween. Still referring to FIG. 24 , a first load is applied to the upper flange 10762 of the firing member 10760 . The first load may correspond to a first thickness, density, and/or toughness of tissue gripped by the end effector 10100 .

The compliant portion 10770 is configured to assume the configuration shown in FIG. 24 when the first load is applied to the upper flange 10762. Specifically, the second end 10778 of the compliant portion 10770 is split between the lower flange 1137 of the passageway 1136 and the upper cover 1139 . A portion of the gap 10780 is above the second end 10778 and another portion of the gap 10780 is below the second end 10778 . In such cases, the upper flange 10762 defines an intermediate tissue gap between the minimum and maximum tissue gap allowed when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 10000 is in the first intermediate position.

In FIG. 25 , the firing member 10760 has been advanced distally from the first intermediate position (see FIG. 24 ) to the second intermediate position, and a second load is applied to the upper flange 10762 of the firing member 10760 . The second load is less than the first load and may correspond to a second thickness, density and/or toughness of the tissue gripped by the end effector 10100, which is less than the first thickness, density and/or toughness, respectively. For example, the second load may be less than the first load because the tissue is thinner.

The compliant portion 10770 is configured to assume the configuration shown in FIG. 25 when the second load is applied to the upper flange 10762. Specifically, the second end 10778 of the compliant portion 10770 is positioned against the lower flange 1137 of the passageway 1136 with the gap 10780 above the second end 10778 . In such cases, the upper flange 10762 defines a minimum tissue gap. To assume the configuration of FIG. 25 , the compliant portion 10770 has been retracted to draw the second end 10778 toward the fixed first end 10776 . The shrinkage of the compliant portion 10770 may be limited by its material, the location of the lower flange 1137, and/or the stop pin 10768, as will be described further herein.

In FIG. 26 , the firing member 10760 has been displaced distally from the second intermediate position (see FIG. 25 ) to the third intermediate position, and a third load is applied to the upper flange 10762 of the firing member 10760 . The third load is greater than the first load and the second load, and may correspond to a third thickness, density, and/or toughness of tissue gripped by the end effector 10100, which is greater than the first thickness, density, and/or toughness, respectively, and greater than the second thickness, density and/or toughness, respectively. For example, the third load may be greater than the first and second loads because the tissue is thicker, denser, and/or more flexible.

When a third load is applied to the upper flange 10762, the compliant portion 10770 is configured to assume the configuration shown in FIG. 26 . Specifically, the second end 10778 of the compliant portion 10770 is positioned against the upper cover 1139 of the passageway 1136 with the gap 10780 below the second end 10778 . In such cases, the upper flange 10762 defines the maximum tissue gap. To assume the configuration of FIG. 26 , the compliant portion 10770 has been stretched or elongated to pull the second end 10778 away from the fixed first end 10776 . The extension of the compliant portion 10770 may be limited by its material, the location of the upper cover 1139, and/or the stop pins 10768, as will be described further herein.

The firing member 10670 also includes a first laterally projecting lug or stop pin 10768 that is configured to move within the passageway 1136 of the anvil 1130 . Limiting pins 10768 are configured to limit tissue clearance during a portion of the firing stroke. The stop pin 10768 is fixed relative to the support portion 10763 and is configured to move within the passageway 1136 during at least a portion of the firing stroke. The stop pin 10768 is configured to limit the maximum tissue clearance as the stop pin 10768 travels along the anvil boss 1137 (see FIG. 24 ). The limit pins 10768 are configured to limit a minimum tissue gap as the limit pins 10768 travel along the upper cover 1139. For example, although the upper flange 10762 is movable relative to the support portion 10763 , the displacement of the upper flange 10762 is limited by the fixed position of the stop pin 10768 within the passageway 1136 .

In various cases, the stop pin 10768 may protrude laterally a first distance, which may be less than the laterally protruding distance of the upper flange 10762 . In other words, the stop pin 10768 may be narrower than the upper flange 10762 . Additionally, the slot 1132 in the anvil 1130 (which provides access to the passageway 1136 ) may be wider in a portion of the anvil 1130 . In such cases, the shorter stop pins 10768 may extend below the anvil boss 1137 without limiting the maximum tissue clearance during a portion of the firing stroke.

In the embodiment shown, the stop pin 10768 is positioned within the passageway 1136 (see FIG. 24 ) during the initial proximal portion of the firing stroke, and within the anvil boss 1037 during the later distal portion of the firing stroke Protruding below (see Figure 26). More specifically, between the proximal portion of the firing stroke and the distal portion of the firing stroke, the slot 1132 widens so that the securing pin is not constrained within the passageway 1136, however, the wider upper flange 1762 can remain constrained within passageway 1136 . In various cases, the slot 1132 may widen to be greater than the stop pin 10768 at or about one-third of the distance from the proximal origin. In other examples, the slot 1132 may widen to be greater than the stop pin 10768 before or after one-third of the distance from the proximal origin.

In various circumstances, it may be desirable to limit the maximum tissue clearance during the initial portion of the firing stroke. For example, at the beginning of a firing stroke through thick, dense and/or pliable tissue, the load on the firing member 10760 may be greater and the upper flange 10762 may be biased a maximum distance away from the lower flange 10764. In such cases, to ensure that the firing member 10760 does not jam or otherwise become disabled during the initial portion of the firing stroke when the highest load is applied to the firing member 10760, the retaining pin 10769 and lower flange may be secured by The distance between 10764 to control the maximum tissue gap. Thereafter, as the load on the firing member 10760 decreases as the tissue is cut by the cutting edge 10766, the stop pin 10768 can disengage from the engagement passage 1136 and its anvil lug 1137 to allow for additional or increased maximum tissue clearance, This can be controlled by the floating upper flange 10762.

The firing member 10760 also includes a second laterally projecting lug 10769 operably configured to engage the elongated channel 1102. For example, the laterally projecting lugs 10769 are configured to travel along an inner surface in the elongated channel 1102 (eg, along the cartridge support base 1101 ) to further control tissue clearance. Additionally or alternatively, the laterally projecting lugs 10769 may be configured to engage a latch, such as latch 6180 (see FIGS. 45-53 ), as described further herein.

During the firing stroke, the staples can be fired into tissue, and the tissue can be cut by the cutting element. At the completion of the firing stroke, the staple row can be positioned on both sides of the cut line, and the staple row can provide tissue sealing on both sides of the cut line. To minimize bleeding, the staples can be fired before the cutting element cuts the tissue. In such cases, the staples can provide tissue sealing until the tissue between the seals is severed by the cutting elements.

In certain instances, it may be advantageous to prevent the surgical instrument from executing the firing stroke. For example, if the end effector lacks a staple cartridge, it may be advantageous to prevent a firing stroke, as such a firing stroke may result in tissue being cut by the cutting element but not sealed by the staples. Similarly, when an empty or used staple cartridge is installed in the end effector, it may be advantageous to prevent firing strokes, as such firing strokes also result in tissue being cut by the cutting element but not sealed by the staples.

Various features may be provided for the surgical instrument to prevent the firing stroke in certain instances. These features are commonly referred to as "latches" and may be positioned, for example, in handles, shafts, interchangeable surgical tool assemblies, end effectors, and/or staple cartridges. 27-29, an end effector 2100 with a latch 2180 is shown. The end effector 2100 includes an elongated channel 2102, which is similar in many respects to the elongated channel 1102 (see FIGS. 3-5). For example, the elongated channel 2102 includes a pair of side walls 2103 extending from the cartridge support surface or base 2101 . Elongated channel 2102 is configured to operably support a staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 3-5 ) therein. The end effector 2100 may also include an anvil 1130 and a firing member 1760 .

The latch 2180 includes a lock 2182 having a first leg or pin 2181 , a second leg or pin 2183 , and a third leg or pin 2185 . The first leg 2181 and the second leg 2183 form the V-shaped body of the lock 2182. The third leg 2185 extends proximally from the V-shaped body. The latch pivot 2184 is positioned at the center portion between the legs 2181 , 2183 and 2185 . The lock 2182 is configured to pivot about a latch pivot 2184 between a locked position (see FIGS. 27 and 28 ) and an unlocked position (see FIG. 29 ). Lockout pivot 2184 is pivotally mounted to sidewall 2103 of elongated channel 2102. The latching device 2180 also includes a latching spring 2186 configured to act on the lock 2182. Although only one lock 2182 and one latch spring 2186 are shown in FIGS. 27-29 , the reader will readily understand that the latch 2180 may include symmetrical locks 2182 and latch springs 2186 . For example, each lock 2182-latch spring 2186 pair may be positioned on one side of the firing member 1760. In other examples, the latching device 2180 may include a single lock 2182 and a single latching spring 2186.

The first leg 2181 constitutes an anvil engaging leg that acts as a support lug for the anvil 1130 when the lock 2182 is in the first orientation. The second leg 2183 constitutes a staple cartridge engagement leg that can be biased by the staple cartridge to pivot the lock 2182 to the unlocked position. The third leg 2185 constitutes a spring engaging leg or lug against which a latching spring 2186 biases the lock 2182 toward the locked position. More specifically, the latching device 2180 includes a latching spring 2186 that exerts a downward force on the third leg 2185. The force on the third leg 2185 is configured to bias the first leg 2181 upward toward the anvil 1130 and proximally. The proximal portion of the latching spring 2186 is securely fixed to the elongated channel 2102, and the distal portion of the latching spring 2186 is configured to deflect relative to its fixed proximal portion. The latch spring 2186 is a leaf spring; however, the reader will readily understand that alternative springs may be employed to bias the lock 2182 toward the locked position.

Referring primarily to FIG. 28 , the lock 2182 is initially biased to the locked position by the latch spring 2186 . The first leg 2181 abuts the anvil 1130 when in the locked position. Specifically, the end 2181a of the first leg 2181 is positioned against the inner rail 1135 of the anvil 1130 . Due to the engagement between the first leg 2181 and the inner rail 2135, the anvil 1130 remains in an open orientation relative to the elongated channel 2102. Even if a closing action is applied to the anvil 1130 (eg, by advancing the firing member 1760 distally), the engagement of the first leg 2181 and the inner rail 1135 prevents the anvil 1130 from closing.

The lock 2182 is configured to remain in the locked position until an unfired staple cartridge is installed in the elongated channel 2102. When the staple cartridge 1110 is positioned in the elongated channel 2102, as shown in FIG. 29, a portion of the staple cartridge 1110 abuts the second leg 2183. More specifically, when the staple cartridge 1110 is unfired, the slider assembly 1120 is in the proximal position, and the proximal end of the unfired slider assembly 1120 is positioned against the second leg 2183 of the lock 2182 . Slider assembly 1120 applies force F (see FIG. 29 ) to second leg 2183 , which deflects second leg 2183 downward and into latching notch 2109 in cartridge support base 2101 of elongated channel 2102 . Because the second leg 2183 is nested in the latching recess 2109, the installed staple cartridge 1110 can be positioned flush with the cartridge support base 2101 of the elongated channel 2102. The force F exerted by the slider assembly 1120 on the second leg 2183 is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of the latch spring 2186 .

In other examples, another portion of the staple cartridge 1110 , such as the cartridge body 1111 , can abut the lock 2182 . In such cases, the latch 1280 may be a cartridge-less or cartridge-less latch that prevents clamping of the end effector 2100 until the cartridge is installed therein. However, when the staple cartridge is installed in the end effector 2100, the lockout can be overcome even if the staple cartridge has been fired. For example, such a cartridge lacking latch can be combined with an empty or used cartridge latch. For example, the empty staple cartridge lockout may be a sensor (eg, an electronic contact sensor) that detects the proper position of the slider assembly 1120 within the staple cartridge 1110 and only allows the firing stroke when the slider assembly 1120 is in the proper pre-fired position .

Still referring to Figure 29, when the second leg 2183 is rotated into the latching recess 2109, the lock 2182 is pivoted to the unlocked position. Accordingly, the first leg portion 2181 moves out of engagement with the inner rail 1135 . When a closing action is applied to the anvil 1130 (eg, by advancing the firing member 1760 distally), the anvil 1130 is closed to pivot downward toward the staple cartridge 1110. In other words, when the unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the elongated channel 2102, the anvil 1130 is allowed to close. For example, the firing member 1760 can be advanced distally and the upper flange 1762 can be moved along the distal closure ramp 1140 of the opening and closing cavity 1148 to cam the anvil 1130 toward the closed position.

When the slider assembly 1120 is positioned in the proximal position shown in FIG. 29, the slider assembly 1120 holds the lock 2182 in the unlocked position. When the slider assembly 1120 is advanced distally during the firing stroke, the lock 2182 is released; however, when the anvil 1130 is clamped relative to the staple cartridge 1110, the inner rail 1135 prevents the lock 2182 from rotating back to the locked position. Thereafter, when the anvil 1130 is returned to the open position (eg, by proximally retracting the firing member 1760), the latching spring 2186 is configured to bias the lock 2182 back toward the locked position (see Figures 27 and 28) , which prevents subsequent closing and firing strokes until the staple cartridge 1110 is removed from the elongated channel 2102 and replaced with a new staple cartridge having a proximally positioned slider assembly positioned to overcome the latch 1280.

The latch 1280 prevents the anvil 1130 from pivoting relative to the elongated channel 2102 unless an unfired staple cartridge 1110 is installed in the end effector 1000 . In various cases, the anvil 1130 may be stationary or stationary, and the elongated channel 2102 may be configured to pivot relative to the stationary anvil 1130 . In such cases, the reader will readily appreciate that the latch 1280 may be configured to prevent pivoting of the elongated channel 2102 relative to the anvil 1130 unless an unfired cartridge 1110 is installed in the end effector 2100.

In some instances, the latch can be positioned in the end effector. For example, the lock 2182 of the latch 2180 is positioned in the elongated channel 2102 of the end effector 2100. In other examples, the latch may be positioned on the shaft portion of the surgical instrument. For example, an interchangeable surgical tool assembly can include a shaft portion and an end effector portion, and a latch can be positioned in the shaft portion.

FIG. 30 shows an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000, which is similar to the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 in many respects. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly includes an end effector 3100 and a shaft portion 3400 . A latch 3480 is positioned in the shaft portion 3400. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 3000 also includes a firing member 3760 coupled to firing rod 3770.

The firing member 3760 is similar in many respects to the firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 3760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 3764, an upper flange 3762, and a support portion 3763 extending between the flanges 3762 and 3764. The upper flange 3762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 3763. The lower flange 3764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 3763. Tissue cutting feature 3766 is supported by support portion 3763 between flanges 3762 and 3764. Support portion 3763 travels through aligned slots in elongated channel 3102, staple cartridge and anvil 3130.

Unlike the anvil 1130, the anvil 3130 does not include an opening and closing cavity 1148 that is engageable by the firing member to open and close the jaws of the end effector 3100. Instead, the closure tube 3430 is configured to translate about a portion of the end effector 3100 in order to open and close the anvil 3130 . Distal translation of closure tube 3430 is configured to enable camming of the jaws towards the clamped configuration, and proximal displacement of closure tube 3430 is configured to enable camming of the jaws towards the open configuration. The operation of the closure tube for opening and closing the jaws of the end effector is further described herein.

Shaft portion 3400 includes a longitudinally movable drive member 3540 that is similar to drive member 1602 in many respects. During the firing stroke, the drive member 3540 transmits firing motion to the firing rod 3770 to fire the firing member 3760. For example, actuation of the drive member 3540 is configured to displace the firing rod 3770 and the firing member 3760 distally to cut tissue and effect firing of the staples from the staple cartridge. The drive member 3540 can then be retracted proximally to retract the firing rod 3770 and the firing member 3760 proximally.

In some instances, the drive member 3540 may be directly coupled to the firing rod 3770 . Other times, as shown in FIG. 30 , the biasing spring 3560 is positioned between the drive member 3540 and the firing rod 3770 . For example, biasing spring 3560 extends proximally from firing rod 3770 toward drive member 3540. In various cases, one end of the biasing spring 3560 can be coupled to the firing rod 3770 and the other end of the biasing spring 3560 can be coupled to the drive member 3540 . The drive member 3540 includes a spring aperture 3544 at its distal end. Spring aperture 3544 is configured to receive and restrain a portion of biasing spring 3560 . The biasing spring 3560 is a coil spring, but the reader will readily appreciate that alternative spring geometries may be configured to apply a proximal biasing force on the drive member 3540 and a corresponding distal biasing force on the firing rod 3770 .

The latch 3480 in the shaft portion 3400 includes a latch lever 3482 having a detent 3484 (see FIGS. 33 and 35 ) and a distal nose 3486 . The detent 3484 of the lockout lever 3482 is positioned to operably engage the drive member 3540 , and the distal nose 3486 of the lockout lever 3482 is positioned to operably engage the firing rod 3770 . Specifically, the firing rod 3770 includes a proximal reset pawl 3772 having a proximal nose 3774. The proximal reset pawl 3772 extends from the proximal end of the firing rod 3770 toward the latching device 3480. The sloped surface of the distal nose 3486 and the sloped surface of the proximal nose 3774 on the latching lever 3482 are slidably engaged, as described further herein.

The latching device 3480 also includes a return spring 3450 that operably engages the latching lever 3482. The return spring 3450 is positioned to exert a force F (see FIG. 30 ) on the latch lever 3482 to bias the latch lever 3482 toward the latched position shown in FIG. 30 . As described further herein, the latch lever 3482 is configured to be rotatable about a pivot 3488 to move from a locked position to an unlocked position (see FIG. 31 ). When in the locked position, the detent 3484 of the latch lever 3482 (see FIGS. 33 and 35 ) engages the drive member 3540 . More specifically, the stopper 3484 is positioned in the latching recess 3542 in the drive member 3540 such that the stopper 3484 prevents longitudinal displacement of the drive member 3540 .

Still referring to FIG. 30 , the staple cartridge is missing from the end effector 3100 . When the staple cartridge is not positioned in the end effector 3100 , the force F from the return spring 3450 pivots the latch lever 3482 to the latched position such that the detent 3484 (see FIGS. 33 and 35 ) is positioned in the latch recess 3542 . Thus, distal displacement of the drive member 3540 is prevented. Although the firing action can be applied to the firing member 3540 from an actuator in the handle of the surgical instrument (eg, handle assembly 500 in FIGS. 1 and 2 ), the drive member 3540 does not displace and does not apply the firing action This is transmitted to the firing rod 3770 and the firing member 3760 as the stop 3484 retains and/or restrains the drive member 3540 from distal displacement thereof.

Referring to FIG. 31 , a staple cartridge 3110 is positioned in an end effector 3100. Staple cartridge 3110 is similar to staple cartridge 1110 in many respects. However, the staple cartridge 3110 also includes a proximal door 3120 that is operably configured to abut the firing member 3760. 32, the staple cartridge 3110 includes a cartridge body 3111 and a longitudinal slot 3114 defined in the cartridge body 3111. A longitudinal slot 3114 extends from the proximal end 3112 of the staple cartridge 3110. At the proximal end 3112 of the staple cartridge 3110, a proximal door 3120 extends across the longitudinal slot 3114. Thus, the proximal door 3120 forms a frangible or breakable barrier for the firing member 3760.

Still referring to FIG. 32 , the proximal door 3120 is connected to the cartridge body 3111 by a hinge 3122 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3114. The proximal door 3120 abuts the cartridge body 3111 on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 3114. Specifically, the cartridge body 3111 includes a cutout 3124 sized to fit and receive a portion of the door 3120. In various cases, door 3120 may be press fit or friction fit into cutout 3124. Additionally or alternatively, the cutout 3124 may define a stop 3126 . Stop 3126 constitutes a distal abutment surface or shelf for door 3120. In various cases, the cartridge body 3111 may be molded from a plastic material, and the cutouts 3124 and/or stops 3126 may be molded features of the cartridge body 3111.

Referring again to FIG. 31 , when the staple cartridge 3110 is positioned in the end effector 3100 , the proximal door 3120 is positioned against the distal end portion of the firing member 3760 . Accordingly, the proximal door 3120 is configured to enable proximal translation of the firing member 3760 and the firing rod 3770. As shown in FIG. 31 , the biasing spring 3560 is configured to compress or otherwise deform to allow proximal displacement of the firing member 3760 toward the drive member 3540 . Although the proximal door 3120 is frangible, the proximal door 3120 is configured to withstand the biasing force created by the compressed biasing spring 3560.

Still referring to FIG. 31 , proximal displacement of the firing member 3760 drives the proximal nose 3774 on the reset pawl 3772 proximally against the latching lever 3482. The proximal nose 3774 is configured to overcome the return spring 3450 so that the latch lever 3482 can pivot toward the unlocked position shown in FIG. 31 . When in the unlocked position, return spring 3450 is compressed flush with the inner surface of shaft portion 3400 and detent 3484 (see FIGS. 33 and 35 ) on latch lever 3482 disengages from latch recess 3542 . Thus, the lockout device 3480 allows for distal displacement of the drive member 3540. Additionally, the firing force of the drive member 3540 transmitted to the firing rod 3770 and the firing member 3760 is configured to rupture the proximal door 3120 on the staple cartridge 3110.

Referring now to FIG. 33, the drive member 3540 has pushed the firing rod 3770 distally, causing the firing member 3760 to break or otherwise release the proximal door 3120. The threshold force required to break or otherwise release the proximal door 3120 may be less than the force generated by the surgical instrument to perform the firing stroke. In other words, the firing stroke can be designed to break or otherwise overcome the proximal door 3120. As shown in FIG. 34 , the proximal door 3120 can be configured to pivot at the hinge 3122 when the firing member 3760 pushes against the proximal door 3120 with the force of the firing stroke. In various circumstances, the stop 3126 of the cutout 3124 may deform or rupture to release the proximal door 3120. For example, as shown in FIG. 34 , the corners of the stops 3126 are broken to accommodate the distal pivot door 3120 .

As the drive member 3540 moves distally during the firing stroke, referring again to Figure 33, the firing rod 3770 and its reset pawl 3772 also move distally. Distal displacement of the reset pawl 3772 moves the reset pawl 3772 out of engagement with the latch lever 3482. Thus, the force of the return spring 3450 on the latch lever 3482 is configured to bias the disengaged latch lever 3482 back to the locked position. Although the lockout lever 3482 has returned to the locked position in FIG. 33 , the firing stroke is allowed to complete because the lockout recess 3542 in the drive member 3540 is longitudinally offset from the detent 3484 on the lockout lever 3482 .

Upon completion of the firing stroke, the firing member 3760 can be retracted proximally. Ramp surface 3546 on drive member 3540 engages latch lever 3482 as firing member 3760, firing rod 3770, and drive member 3540 move proximally. For example, ramp surface 3546 may slide along distal nose 3486 of latch lever 3482 to temporarily compress return spring 3450 and pivot latch lever 3482 against return spring 3450 . As drive member 3540 continues to retract proximally and ramp surface 3546 moves past detent 3484 on latch lever 3482, detent 3484 can resiliently engage latch recess 3542 in drive member 3540, as shown in FIG. 35 . Show. Return spring 3450 exerts a spring force on latch lever 3482 to reset latch 3480. The latch 3480 is reset in FIG. 35 because the detent 3484 re-engages the latch recess 3542 and is biased to such a position by the return spring 3450. In other words, lockout 3480 prevents subsequent firing strokes.

Although the firing member 3760 has been retracted to the original position in FIG. 35 , the firing member 3760 is slightly moved away from the position shown in FIG. 31 . Because the proximal gate 3120 is overcome during the firing stroke, the gate 3120 no longer biases the firing member 3760 proximally, and thus no longer biases the firing rod 3770 proximally. Therefore, the latch 3480 in the shaft portion 3400 cannot be overcome by the used staple cartridge 3110 shown in FIG. 35 .

Although latch 3480 has been described with respect to end effector 3100, the reader will readily appreciate that latch 3480 may also be used with other end effectors, such as end effector 1100, which utilize multifunctional The firing member opens and closes the end effector jaws, fires the staples, and cuts tissue.

In certain instances, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly can include a spring configured to urge the jaws of the end effector toward the closed position. For example, such a spring may be positioned distal of the pivot joint of the end effector. In some instances, the spring can interact with a latch that prevents the firing stroke when the cartridge is not installed in the end effector (ie, a cartridge is absent or a cartridge-free latch).

Referring to Figure 36, anvil 4130 is shown. Anvil 4130 is similar in many respects to anvil 1130 (see FIGS. 3-6 ), however, anvil 4130 also includes spring slot 4146 and release notch 4136 . A spring slot 4146 is defined in the outer proximal surface 4147 of the anvil 4130. For example, the anvil 4130 includes a ramp surface 4134 that defines an opening and closing cavity 4148 similar to the ramp surface 1134 and the opening and closing cavity 1148 (see FIGS. 8-12 ), respectively. For example, the opening and closing cavity 4148 includes a distal closing ramp 4140 and a proximal opening surface 4142. A spring slot 4146 is located at the proximal end of the anvil 4130, near the opening and closing cavity 4148. Anvil 4130 also includes inner rails 4135 located laterally inboard of sidewall tissue stops 4133.

Inner rail 4135 is similar to inner rail 1135 (see FIGS. 4 and 6 ) and includes release notches 4136 therein. The release notch 4136 is engaged by a latching feature, as described further herein. The latching device of FIGS. 36-44 includes a pair of latching springs 4450 and a pair of locking levers 4180 . The latching spring 4450 and locking lever 4180 are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal axis of the anvil 4130 . In other examples, the latching device may include a single latching spring 4450 and a single locking lever 4180 .

Referring primarily to FIGS. 33-40 , an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 4000 includes an end effector 4100 having an anvil 4130 and an elongated channel 4102 , and a latching spring 4450 extending between the anvil 4130 and the elongated channel 4102 . Anvil 4130 is configured to pivot relative to elongated channel 4102 at pivot joint 4150 at pivot pin 4152. For example, elongated channel 4102 is similar in many respects to elongated channel 1102 (see FIGS. 3-5 and 7 ), however, elongated channel 4102 also includes an aperture 4107 for spring 4450 (see FIGS. 24, 26 ). and FIG. 28), and recess 4109 for locking lever 4180. For example, the anvil 4130 is similar in many respects to the anvil 1130 (see FIGS. 3-6 ), however, the anvil 4130 also includes a spring slot 4146 for receiving a portion of the latching spring 4450 .

The latching spring 4450 extends through the spring slot 4146 between the elongated channel 4102 and the anvil 4130. Each spring 4450 includes a first end 4452 retained in an aperture 4107 in the elongated channel 4102 and a second end 4454 that engages the anvil 4130 . The first end 4452 of the spring 4450 may be embedded or otherwise secured to the elongated channel 4102. For example, the first end 4452 of the spring 4450 can be retained within a corresponding aperture 4107 in the elongated channel 4102. The second end 4454 of the spring 4450 can be positioned against a corresponding abutment surface 4149 on the outer proximal surface 4147 of the anvil 4130 . For example, the abutment surface 4149 is aligned with the spring slot 4146 proximate the opening and closing cavity 4148.

A firing member 4760 (see FIGS. 38-40 ) is positioned in the end effector 4100 . Firing member 4760 is similar in many respects to firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 4760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 4764, an upper flange 4762, and a support portion 4763 extending between the flanges 4762 and 4764. The upper flange 4762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 4763. The lower flange 4764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 4763. Tissue cutting feature 4766 is supported by support portion 4763 between flanges 4762 and 4764. Support portion 4763 travels through elongated channel 4102 , a staple cartridge (such as staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 3-5 )), and aligned slots in anvil 4130 .

The firing member 4760 also includes a proximal boss 4768 that extends proximally from the top portion of the firing member 4760. The proximal boss 4768 is operably configured to engage the anvil 4130 to facilitate the opening action of the anvil 4130. More specifically, proximal boss 4768 is positioned to engage central intersecting surface 4145 of anvil 4130. The central intersecting surface 4145 is positioned in the middle of the spring slot 4146 and proximate the opening and closing cavity 4148 and the pivot joint 4150 of the end effector 4100 . When the firing member 4760 is retracted proximally beyond the pivot joint 4150, the proximal boss 4768 is configured to slidably engage the central intersection surface 4145, which biases the central intersection surface 4145 downwardly to open the anvil 4130 toward the open Position pivot.

The end effector 4100 includes a locking lever 4180 slidably positioned in a recess 4109 in the elongated channel 4102. Each locking lever 4180 includes a proximal end 4182 and a distal end 4184. The proximal end 4182 is operably positioned in the release notch 4136. The distal end 4184 is positioned to engage the staple cartridge when the staple cartridge is inserted into the elongated channel 4102. The engagement surface at the proximal end 4182 of the locking lever 4180 and the notch 4136 are configured to bias the locking lever 4180 distally. For example, the notch 4136 defines a ramped surface that urges the proximal end 4182 of the locking lever 4180 distally. Additionally or alternatively, the latching device may include a biasing spring 4186 (see FIG. 40 ) for biasing the locking lever 4180 toward the distal position. The biasing spring 4186 is positioned in abutting contact with the proximal end 4182 of the locking lever 4180. In various cases, the recess in the elongated channel 4102 can be configured to receive and support the biasing spring 4186.

Referring primarily to Figures 39 and 40, the end effector 4100 is shown in an unclamped or open configuration. Additionally, the staple cartridge has not been installed in the elongated channel 4102. Although the anvil 4130 is not clamped relative to the staple cartridge, the latching spring 4450 is configured to exert a closing force on the anvil 4130. For example, the latching spring 4450 is configured to bias the anvil 4130 downward and forward. Referring primarily to Figure 40, the second end 4454 of the spring 4450 is positioned against the abutment surface 4149 on the outboard proximal surface 4147, and the spring 4450 is configured to exert a force f on the abutment surface 4149 (see Figure 40) ; The force f biases the anvil 4130 toward the closed position.

The force f from the latch spring 4450 is also configured to bias the anvil pin 4152 into the latch notch 4105 in the elongated channel 4102. More specifically, the elongated channel 4102 includes a pair of profiled slots 4108 defined in the proximal portion of each sidewall. The shaped slot 4108 is commonly referred to as a "kidney slot" or "banana slot" due to its geometry. The latching notch 4105 extends from the lower proximal portion of the profiled slot 4108. When the anvil pin 4152 is positioned in the latching recess 4105, the anvil 4130 is prevented from rotating from the open position (see Figures 39-42) to the closed position (see Figures 43 and 44). For example, where the proximal end 4182 of the locking lever 4180 is positioned in the release notch 4136, the ramp surface at the proximal end 4182 can be positioned flush with the ramp surface in the release notch 4136, allowing movement of the anvil 4130 Limited.

Referring now to FIGS. 41 and 42, the staple cartridge 1110 has been installed in the elongated channel 4102. When the staple cartridge 1110 is inserted into the end effector 4100, the proximal end 1112 of the staple cartridge 1110 is positioned against the distal end 4184 of the locking lever 4180 and the locking lever 4180 is displaced proximally in the recess 4109 . For example, the distal end 4184 of the locking lever 4180 can include a cartridge-facing surface against which the proximal end 1112 of the staple cartridge abuts. Proximal displacement of the locking lever 4180 also moves the proximal end 4182 of the locking lever within the release notch 4136. The proximal end 4182 includes a ramped surface that engages the ramped surface of the release notch 4136 to lift the anvil 4130 up away from the elongated channel 4102. As the anvil 4130 moves upward, the anvil pin 4152 also moves upward out of the latch notch 4105 and into the profiled slot 4108. Although the spring 4450 continues to bias the anvil 4130 downward and thus bias the anvil pin 4152 into the latching recess 4105, the proximal displacement of the locking lever 4180 by the installed staple cartridge 1110 is sufficient to overcome the biasing of the latching spring 4450. set. When the anvil pin 4152 is positioned within the forming slot 4108, as shown in FIG. 42, the anvil 4130 is operably configured to pivot about the pivot joint 4150 at the anvil pin 4152 toward the closed position.

Referring now to Figures 43 and 44, the firing member 4760 has been advanced distally to close the anvil 4130. For example, as the firing member 4760 is moved distally, the upper flange 4762 of the anvil 4130 is configured to cam against, for example, a distal closure ramp on the anvil 4130, similar to the distal closure on the anvil 1130 Ramp 1140 (see Figures 8-12). The camming force generated by the firing member 4760 is sufficient to pivot the anvil 4130 toward the closed position, and the anvil pin 4152 is configured to move along the profiled slot 4108 as the anvil 4130 pivots relative to the elongated channel 4102 . The firing member 4760 can then continue to move distally along the firing path in the end effector 4100 to complete the firing stroke.

Upon completion of the firing stroke, the firing member 4760 is retracted toward the proximal end 1112 of the spent staple cartridge 1110. Although the firing member 4760 is retracted proximally, the slider assembly 1120 is configured to be retained at the distal end 1113 of the used staple cartridge 1110. In such cases, the proximal end 1112 of the used staple cartridge 1110 may continue to bias the locking lever 4180 proximally so that the anvil pin 4152 remains in the profiled slot 4108 .

In other examples, the slider assembly 1120 can operably engage the locking lever 4180 such that the locking lever 4180 is biased proximally only when the slider assembly 1120 is in the proximal pre-fire position in the staple cartridge 1110 . In this case, at the beginning of the firing stroke, the locking lever 4180 may be allowed to shift distally and re-engage the latch, preventing subsequent firing strokes until a new cartridge is installed in the end effector 4100.

As described herein, in certain examples, the elongated channel of the end effector may include a shaped slot (eg, a "kidney" or "banana" shaped slot) to facilitate opening and closing of the anvil. In other examples, the elongated channel may include pin holes for facilitating opening and closing of the anvil. In such cases, the anvil is configured to pivot about a single pivot axis at the pivot joint. The latching device including the locking lever 4180 can be modified for single pivot axis closure of the anvil.

For example, referring now to FIGS. 90-92, an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 5000 includes an end effector 5100 having an anvil 5130 and an elongated channel 5102. Anvil 5130 is configured to pivot relative to elongated channel 5102 about pivot joint 5150 at pivot pin 5152 . The elongated channel 5102 is similar in many respects to the elongated channel 4102 (see FIGS. 37-44 ), however, the elongated channel 5102 includes a pin hole 5108 for receiving a pivot pin 5152 instead of a profiled slot. Anvil 5130 is similar in many respects to anvil 4130 (see FIGS. 36-44 ), however, anvil 5130 does not include a notch in inner rail 5135 for engagement with the locking lever.

For example, although the firing member is not shown in Figures 90-92, the reader will readily understand that the firing member in end effector 5100 may be the same as firing member 4760 (see Figure 38). The firing member for the end effector 5100 may be configured to engage a ramp surface that defines an opening and closing cavity similar to the ramp surface 1134 and the opening and closing cavity 1148 (see FIGS. 8-12 ), respectively. For example, an open-close cavity includes a distal closing ramp and a proximal open surface. In certain examples, the latching spring can extend through the spring slot 5146 between the elongated channel 5102 and the anvil 5130 . Such a latching spring can be the same as latching spring 4450, for example. In other examples, the end effector 5100 may not include a latching spring extending between the anvil 5130 and the elongated channel 5102.

The end effector 5100 includes a locking lever 5180 slidably positioned in a recess 5109 in the elongated channel 5102. Each locking lever 5180 includes a proximal end 5182 and a distal end 5184. Proximal end 5182 is positioned in abutting contact with compression spring 5190 , which is also positioned in recess 5109 . The distal end 5184 is positioned to engage the staple cartridge when the staple cartridge is inserted into the elongated channel 5102. Although only a single locking lever 5180 is shown in FIGS. 90-92 , the reader will readily understand that symmetrical locking levers 5180 may be positioned on each side of the end effector 5100 . For example, in other examples, the latching device of the end effector 5100 may be asymmetric relative to the firing member, and may include only a single locking lever 5180 .

Referring primarily to Figure 90, the end effector 5100 is shown in an unclamped or open configuration. Additionally, the staple cartridge has not been installed in the elongated channel 5102. Although the anvil 5130 is not clamped relative to the staple cartridge, in some instances the latching spring can be configured to apply a closing force on the anvil 5130. For example, a latching spring may be configured to bias the anvil 5130 downward and forward. Although the anvil 5130 can be biased toward the clamped configuration, the pivot pin 5152 can be configured to prevent pivoting of the anvil 5130.

The pivot pin 5152 has a semicircular perimeter or cross-section including a circular, rounded or other shaped portion 5154 and a flat or linear portion 5156. When the anvil 5130 is in the unclamped configuration, the pivot pin 5152 is oriented such that the flat portion 5156 is positioned flush with the top surface 5186 of the locking lever 5180 . When the flat portion 5156 is flush with the top surface 5186, rotation of the pivot pin 5152 and thus rotation of the anvil 5130 from the open position to the closed position (see FIG. 92) is limited or prevented entirely. For example, when the firing member is advanced distally toward the distal closure ramp from its home position in the opening and closing cavity, the attempted distal displacement of the firing member may not be sufficient to overcome the flat surface 5156 of the pivot pin 5152 and the top surface of the locking lever 5180 Rotational resistance between 5186. Accordingly, movement of the anvil 5130 toward the closed configuration may be prevented until the staple cartridge is positioned in the elongated channel 5102, and thus overcomes the lockout.

Referring now to FIG. 91 , the staple cartridge 1110 has been installed in the elongated channel 5102. When the staple cartridge 1110 is inserted into the end effector 5100 , the proximal end 1112 of the staple cartridge 1110 is positioned against the distal end 5184 of the locking lever 5180 and the locking lever 5180 is displaced proximally in the recess 5109 . For example, the distal end 5184 of the locking lever 5180 can include a cartridge-facing surface against which the proximal end 1112 of the staple cartridge abuts.

Proximal displacement of locking lever 5180 also moves notch 5188 in locking lever 5180 proximally. A notch 5188 is defined downward from a top surface 5186 intermediate the proximal end 5182 and the distal end 5184. The notch 5188 is configured to move into longitudinal alignment with the pivot pin 5152 when the compression spring 5190 compresses to allow the locking lever 5180 to be displaced proximally within the recess 5109. As shown in FIG. 91 , when the notch 5188 is aligned with the pivot pin 5152 , the flat portion 5156 of the pivot pin 5152 can be spaced apart from the locking lever 5180 . Accordingly, the anvil 5130 is operatively allowed to pivot about the anvil pin 5152 at the pivot joint 5150 toward the closed position.

Referring now to FIG. 92, a closing action has been applied to the anvil 5130. For example, the firing member can be advanced distally to close the anvil 5130. Distal advancement of the firing member is configured to enable camming of its upper flange against the distal closure ramp on the anvil 5130. The camming force generated by the firing member is sufficient to pivot the pin 5152 within the pin hole 5108. The firing member may then continue to move distally along the firing path in the end effector 5100 to complete the firing stroke.

Upon completion of the firing stroke, the firing member can be retracted toward the proximal end 1112 of the spent staple cartridge 1110. The slider assembly 1120 is configured to be retained at the distal end 1113 of the used staple cartridge 1110 despite the proximal retraction of the firing member. In such cases, the proximal end 1112 of the spent staple cartridge 1110 may continue to bias the locking lever 5180 proximally so that the anvil pin 5152 remains aligned with the notch 5188.

In other examples, the slider assembly 1120 can operably engage the locking lever 5180 such that the locking lever 5180 is biased proximally only when the slider assembly 1120 is in the proximal pre-fire position in the staple cartridge 1110 . In this case, at the start of the firing stroke, the locking lever 5180 may be allowed to shift distally and re-engage the latch, preventing subsequent firing strokes until a new cartridge is installed in the end effector 5100.

Referring now to Figures 45-53, a surgical end effector 6100 is shown. Surgical end effector 6100 includes elongated channel 6102 and anvil 1130. Elongated channel 6102 is similar in many respects to elongated channel 1102 (see FIGS. 3-5 and 7 ), however, elongated channel 6102 also includes a recess sized and positioned to operatively receive a portion of latch spring 6182 Section 6109. In other examples, the surgical end effector 6100 may include an elongated channel 1102 in place of the elongated channel 6102, as described further herein.

The firing member 6760 is positioned in the end effector 6100. The firing member 6760 is similar in many respects to the firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 6760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 6764, an upper flange 6762, and a support portion 6763 extending between the flanges 6762 and 6764. The upper flange 6762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 6763. The lower flange 6764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 6763. Tissue cutting feature 6766 is supported by support portion 6763 between flanges 6762 and 6764. The support portion 6763 travels through aligned slots in the elongated channel 6102, the staple cartridge 6110, and the anvil 1130.

Similar to firing member 1760, firing member 6760 is configured to apply a closing camming force on end effector 6100 to clamp anvil 1130 relative to elongated channel 6102 during a portion of the firing stroke, and is configured to An open cam force is applied to the end effector 6100 to pivot the anvil 1130 away from the elongated channel 6102 upon completion of the firing stroke. For example, the firing member 6730 is positioned to operably engage the opening and closing cavity 1148 in the anvil 1130 to facilitate pivoting of the anvil 1130.

The surgical end effector 6100 includes a latch 6180 that is operable to prevent the firing stroke and/or prevent rotational movement of the anvil 1130 toward the elongated channel 6102 unless an unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw. In other words, the latch 6180 is a missing and empty cartridge latch, and can also be considered a pinch latch. Because the firing member 6760 is a multifunctional firing member, the firing member is configured to enable a combination of surgical function and a single actuation system. Thus, when the latch 6180 prevents actuation of the firing member 6760, the latch 6180 effectively prevents the combination of surgical functions performed by the firing member 6760, including clamping of the end effector 6100 and advancement of the cutting edge 6766.

In other examples, the latch 6180 can be configured to engage the firing member 6760 after the firing member 6760 has closed the end effector jaws. For example, the locking device 6180 can be positioned further distally such that the firing member 6760 engages the locking device 6180 after engaging the distal closure ramp 1140 of the opening and closing cavity 1148. In such cases, the firing member 6760 may be configured to clamp the anvil 1130 relative to the elongated channel 6102 before the latching device 6180 may be engaged.

The latching device 6180 includes a latching spring 6182 and latching lugs 6770 on the firing member 6760. The latching spring 6182 is positioned in the recess 6109 in the elongated channel 6102. The latch spring 6182 defines a U-shaped member having a fixed end and a pair of deflectable ends. The latching spring 6182 is a leaf spring, however, the reader will readily appreciate that various alternative springs may be constructed to operatively engage the latching lugs 6770. For example, the latching spring 6182 may consist of two separate leaf springs on either side of the firing member 6760.

The fixed end of the latching spring 6182 is fixed to the proximal end 6184 of the elongated channel 6102. For example, proximal end 6184 may be welded to elongated channel 6102 at spot weld 6196 (see Figure 47). The deflectable or free end of the latching spring 6182 defines a distal end 6186 thereof. A spring arm 6188 extends between the proximal end 6184 of the latching spring 6182 and each free distal end 6186.

Referring primarily to FIG. 47 , a pair of laterally extending tabs or hooks 6190 extend inwardly from the distal end 6186 toward the centerline of the latching spring 6182 . Hook 6190 is located laterally inboard of spring arm 6188. The hook is operably configured to capture or engage the latching lug 6770, as described further herein. Still referring to Figure 47, the latch spring 6182 is shown in a non-compressed or non-flexed default configuration. In the non-pressure configuration, the spring arms 6188 define a curve or profile such that the distal end 6186 is deflected upwardly from the proximal end 6184. While the latching spring 6182 is configured to flex or otherwise deform during operation of the end effector 6100, the latching spring 6182 is configured to seek to restore the non-pressure configuration of FIG. 47 .

The latching lugs 6770 define laterally projecting lugs on the support portion 6763 of the firing member 6760. A locking or notch 6772 is defined in each laterally projecting lug 6770. Lock 6772 is a rectangular cutout dimensioned and aligned to receive hook 6190 when latch spring 6182 is in the non-pressure configuration of FIG. 47 and firing member 6760 is advanced distally into engagement with hook 6190 on latch spring 6182. For example, each lock 6772 includes a distally facing opening configured to receive the hook 6190 when the hook 6190 is aligned with the distally facing opening and the firing member 6760 is advanced distally. When the hook 6190 is retained in the lock 6772, distal advancement of the firing member 6760 is prevented. Thus, the latch 6180 prevents clamping of the anvil 1130 and advancement of the blade 6766.

In use, the latching spring 6182 may initially be in the uncompressed configuration of FIG. 47 in the elongated channel 6102. In the non-pressure configuration, the hook 6190 on the distal end 6186 of the latching spring 6182 is biased upward and becomes aligned with the lock 6772 in the firing member 6760. Thus, as the firing member 6760 is advanced distally, the hook 6190 slides into the lock 6772 on the advanced firing member 6760, preventing distal displacement of the firing member 6760 past the hook 6190.

Referring now to FIG. 48, a portion of the staple cartridge 6110 is configured to engage the latching spring 6182 when the staple cartridge 6110 is installed in the end effector 6100. The staple cartridge 6110 is similar in many respects to the staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 3-5). The staple cartridge 6110 includes a slider assembly 6120 that is similar in many respects to the slider assembly 1120 (see FIGS. 4 and 5 ), however, the slider assembly 6120 has a cutout at the proximal end 6112 of the staple cartridge 6110 or recess 6122. The cutout 6122 is defined in the channel-facing surface of the slider assembly 6120 and is configured to receive the distal end of the latching spring 6182 when the slider assembly 6120 is in the proximal home position (see FIG. 48 ) in the staple cartridge 6110 6186, including its hook 6190. The slider assembly 6120 engages the distal end 6186 of the latch spring 6182 to deflect the hook 6190 into the cutout 6122 and become out of alignment with the lock 6772.

In other examples, the staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 3-5 ) can be mounted in the elongated channel 6102 and its slider assembly 1120 can be configured to deflect the hook 6190 downwardly into a latch in the elongated channel 6102 in the recessed portion 6109. In such cases, the latching recess 6109 can be sized to accommodate the height of the latching spring 6182 so that the staple cartridge 1110 can be positioned flush with the cartridge support surface of the elongated channel 6102. In still other cases, elongated channel 6102 may not include latching recesses 6109, similar to elongated channel 1102 (see Figures 3-5). In such cases, the cutout 6122 in the slider assembly 6120 can be sized to accommodate the height of the latching spring 6182 so that the staple cartridge 6110 can be positioned flush with the cartridge support surface of the elongated channel 6102.

During the firing stroke, the slider assembly 6120 is advanced distally through the cartridge body 6111 by the firing member 6760. The slider assembly 6120 remains in the distal portion of the staple cartridge 6110 when the firing member 6760 is retracted proximally after the firing stroke. For example, referring now to FIG. 49, the firing member 6760 is advanced distally from the proximal home position during the initial portion of the firing stroke. As the firing member 6760 moves distally away from the latching spring 6182, the latching spring 6182 is configured to restore the non-pressure orientation of FIG.

Referring now to Figure 50, upon completion of the firing stroke, the firing member 6760 is retracted proximally toward the proximal home position. The hooks 6190 on the latching spring 6182 are configured to ride or slide along the ramp surfaces 6774 on the laterally projecting lugs 6770 as the firing member 6760 moves proximally past the distal end 6186 of the latching spring 6182. The hook 6190 engages the ramp surface 6774 in FIG. 50 such that the ramp surface 6774 cams the hook 6190 and the distal end 6186 of the latch spring 6182 upward or lifts over the lock 6772 and along the top surface of the lug 6770 protruding laterally . When the hook 6190 bypasses the lock 6772, the latch 6180 is effectively reset.

Referring now to Figure 51, the firing member 6760 has returned to the proximal home position and the latching spring 6182 has returned to the unstressed configuration. Accordingly, the hook 6190 on the latching spring 6182 is aligned with the lock 6772 on the firing member 6760. For example, the locks 6772 are configured to move along a corresponding locking path in the end effector 6100 as the firing member 6760 is advanced distally, and each hook 6190 is in the locking path of a corresponding lock 6772 . Although the staple cartridge 6110 remains in the elongated channel 6102 in FIG. 51 , the slider 6120 (see FIGS. 33 and 34 ) remains in the distal end portion of the staple cartridge 6110 because the staple cartridge 6110 has been fired or used up middle. The distally displaced slide 6120 is not positioned to engage the distal end 6186 of the latch spring 6182 to overcome the latch 6180, as shown in FIG. 45 .

Distal displacement of the firing member 6170 through the reset latch 6180 is blocked, as shown in FIG. 52 . Specifically, the firing member 6760 has been displaced distally from the proximal home position during a subsequent attempted firing stroke. However, when the firing member 6760 is moved distally, the lock 6772 moves along its corresponding locking path into engagement with the hook 6190. The hook 6190 slides into the lock 6772 to prevent further distal movement of the firing member 6760.

The latch 6180 includes a symmetrical lock 6772 and a symmetrical hook 6190. For example, the lock 6772 and hook 6190 are symmetrical about the longitudinal axis of the end effector 6100 such that the firing force generated by the firing member is constrained by the latch 6180 in a balanced and symmetrical manner. In other examples, the latching device 6180 can be asymmetric and can include, for example, a single lock 6772 and a single hook 6190.

In various cases, as described herein, an interchangeable surgical tool assembly for a surgical instrument can be fired upon actuation of a firing trigger on its handle assembly. In certain instances, multiple actuations of the firing trigger can be configured to fire the interchangeable surgical tool assembly. For example, each actuation of the firing trigger may achieve a portion of the firing stroke. In other examples, a single actuation of a firing stroke may be configured to enable a series of consecutive firing strokes. In certain instances, each successive firing stroke may facilitate distal advancement and/or proximal retraction of the firing member, cutting edge, and/or slider assembly. For example, a firing rod in an interchangeable surgical tool assembly can be extended and retracted multiple times in a series of consecutive firing strokes to complete firing of the end effector.

In some instances, it may be desirable to advance the firing member distally into the mid-section of the end effector. The firing member can fire the slider assembly and/or cutting element to the middle portion of the end effector. Additionally, in various circumstances, the pusher plate may be advanced distally to complete firing of the slider assembly and/or cutting element. As described herein, the firing member may include an upper flange configured to travel through the anvil of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly. Where the distal advancement of the firing member terminates in the intermediate portion of the end effector, the distal portion of the anvil may be accessless. For example, the distal portion of the anvil may be solid such that the upper flange of the firing member cannot travel therethrough. When the distal portion of the anvil is solid, the stiffness of the anvil can be greater than an anvil having a passageway extending to its distal end. The increased stiffness of the anvil may be configured to limit deformation and/or buckling of the anvil.

An interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 configured to perform a series of consecutive firing strokes is shown in FIGS. 56-70 . Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 can be mounted to handle assembly 500 (see Figures 1 and 2). In some instances, each firing stroke in the series of consecutive firing strokes may be affected by a single actuation of the firing trigger 532 (see FIGS. 1 and 2 ). In other examples, a single actuation of the firing trigger 532 can affect one or more firing strokes. For example, a single actuation of the firing trigger 532 can affect a complete series of consecutive firing strokes to fire the staple and cut into the target tissue held between the end effector jaws.

Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 includes end effector 12100 , shaft portion 12400 , firing member 12760 and firing rod 12770 . The end effector 12100 includes an elongated channel 12102 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 11210 therein. Elongated channel 12102 is operably attached to shaft portion 12400. The end effector 12100 also includes an anvil 12130 that is pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 12102.

The firing member 12760 is configured to operably interface with the slider assembly 12120 that is operably supported within the body 12111 of the surgical staple cartridge 12110. Slider assembly 12120 is slidably displaced within surgical staple cartridge body 12111 from a proximal home position adjacent proximal end 12112 of cartridge body 12111 to a termination position adjacent distal end 12113 of cartridge body 12111 . Slider assembly 12120 includes a plurality of inclined or wedge-shaped cams 12122 , where each cam 12122 corresponds to a particular row of pins 1126 . Slider assembly 12120 also includes a cutting edge 12124. The cutting edge 12124 is configured to travel with the slider assembly 12120 through the end effector 12100. For example, the cutting edge 12124 is integrally formed on the slider assembly 12120.

Direct drive surgical staples 1126 (see also FIG. 5 ) are positioned in staple cavities in the body 12111. When the slider assembly 12120 is driven distally, the tissue cutting edge 12124 is configured to cut tissue clamped between the anvil assembly 12130 and the staple cartridge 12110 and the slider assembly 12120 drives the staples 1126 upwardly in the staple cartridge 12110 and make contact with the anvil assembly 12130. Slider assembly 12120 can be driven distally by firing member 12760 and/or by pusher plate 12780, as described further herein. For example, the firing member 12760 is configured to urge the slider assembly 12120 distally to an intermediate position in the end effector 12100, and the pusher plate 12780 is configured to bypass the firing member 12760 to further advance the slider distally Assembly 12120 to a distal position in end effector 12100.

During the firing stroke, for example, a drive member such as drive member 1602 (see FIG. 2 ) in shaft portion 12400 is configured to transmit firing action to firing rod 12770 . For example, displacement of the drive member 1602 is configured to displace the firing rod 12770 . The firing rod 12770 may be operably configured to fire the firing member 12760 as described herein. For example, the firing rod 12770 can push the firing member 12760 distally during at least a portion of the firing sequence.

The firing member 12760 is similar in many respects to the firing member 1760 (see Figures 4 and 5). For example, the firing member 12760 defines an I-beam structure that includes a lower flange 12764, an upper flange 12762, and a support portion 12763 extending between the lower flange 12764 and the upper flange 12762. The upper flange 12762 is constituted by a horizontal pin extending from the support portion 12763. The lower flange 12764 consists of an enlarged or widened foot at the base of the support portion 12763. The firing member 12760 can be configured to engage an open-close cavity on the anvil 12130, such as the open-close cavity 1148 (see FIGS. 8-12), to effect opening and closing of the anvil 12130 relative to the staple cartridge 12110. Additionally, the upper flange 12762 can be configured to travel through the passageway 12136 in the anvil 12130 and the lower flange 12764 can be configured to travel through the passageway 12106 in the elongated channel 12102. Unlike firing member 1760, firing member 12760 does not include a cutting edge. Rather, the firing member 12760 is configured to selectively engage the slider assembly 12120, which includes the cutting edge 12124.

Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 also includes push rod assembly 12778 having push plate 12780 and spring 12782. Referring primarily to FIGS. 56-58 , when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 is in the unfired configuration, the spring 12782 is configured to bias the pusher plate 12780 laterally toward the firing rod 12770 . For example, the spring 12782 is positioned intermediate the push plate 12780 and the side wall of the shaft assembly 12400. Push plate 12780 is biased against firing rod 12770 which is positioned against stop plate 12784 in shaft portion 12400. The spring 12782 is a linear wave spring, however, the reader will readily appreciate that alternative spring designs may be configured to bias the push plate 12780 laterally toward the firing rod 12770. As further described herein, the push plate 12780 remains in the shaft portion 12400 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 until the firing rod 12770 is retracted to a more proximal position, which allows the push plate 12780 to elastically engage the firing rod 12770 laterally engage.

Referring now to FIGS. 59-61 , the push plate 12780 includes a linear body 12786 having a plurality of leaf springs 12788 along the body 12786 . The leaf spring 12788 is depicted in FIGS. 60 and 61 in an unstressed or undeformed configuration, which depicts the leaf spring 12788 biased laterally outward from the linear body 12786 . Linear body 12786 extends between proximal end 12788 and distal end 12790. A T-shaped slot 12792 is defined in the proximal end 12788. The T-slot 12792 is configured to operably receive a distal key or tab 12771 on the firing rod 12770. The distal key 12771 may include, for example, a disk-shaped key protruding from the firing rod 12770 (see Figure 63). When the key 12771 is located in the T-slot 12792, proximal and distal translation of the firing rod 12770 is transferred to the push plate 12780. The reader will readily appreciate that alternative complementary slot and key geometries may be employed to transmit firing action between firing rod 12770 and push plate 12780.

At the beginning of the first firing stroke, referring primarily to FIGS. 62 and 63 , the distal end of the firing rod 12770 is positioned in abutment and driving contact with the firing member 12760 . Additionally, the firing rod 12770 is configured to restrain the push plate 12780 and its leaf spring 12788. In such cases, the firing rod 12770 can be advanced distally to urge the firing member 12760 distally. As the firing member 12760 moves distally, the firing member 12760 also pushes the slider assembly 12120 distally. In FIG. 62, the ramp surface 12122 of the slider assembly 12120 has engaged the most proximal staples 1126 in the depicted row and begins to lift the staples 1126 toward the anvil 12130.

Although the firing rod 12770 has been moved distally in FIG. 62 , the pusher plate 12780 is configured to maintain a proximal position in the shaft portion 12400 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 . Referring primarily to Figure 63, the firing member 12760 includes a notch 12766 sized to allow the pusher plate 12780 to bypass the firing member 12760 at a later stage of the firing stroke sequence, as described further herein.

The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 is shown in FIG. 64 at the completion of the first firing stroke. By comparing Figures 58 and 64, the reader will readily understand that the firing member 12760 has been moved distally by the firing rod 12770 by a distance V from point A to point B. Point B is approximately one third of the distance between the proximal end 12112 and the distal end 12113 of the staple cartridge 12110. In other examples, point B may be less than or greater than one third of the distance between proximal end 12112 and distal end 12113. For example, point B may be approximately one-quarter or one-sixth of the distance between proximal end 12112 and distal end 12113. In other examples, point B may be further than an intermediate location between proximal end 12112 and distal end 12113.

Upon reaching point B, the slider assembly 12120 has moved two staples 1126 in the depicted row into the forming position and has moved the third staple in the depicted row toward the forming position. The firing rod 12770 is then configured to retract proximally during the second firing stroke. Because the firing rod 12770 only abuts, drives, and is not coupled to the firing member 12760, when the firing rod 12770 is retracted proximally, the firing member 12770 is configured to remain in a neutral position (point B).

Referring primarily to Figures 65 and 66, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 is shown at the completion of the second firing stroke. By comparing Figures 64 and 66, the reader will readily understand that the firing rod 12770 has moved proximally a distance W from point B to point C. Point C is on the proximal side of point A. In other words, the distance W is greater than the distance V (see Figure 64). Additionally, point C is located proximal of the pushrod assembly 12778. More specifically, when the firing rod 12770 is retracted to point C, the firing rod 12770 is retracted proximally such that the T-slot 12792 in the proximal end 12788 of the pusher plate 12780 interacts with the distal key on the firing rod 12770 12771 aligned. When the distal key 12771 is aligned with the T-slot 12792, the T-slot 12792 is configured to receive the distal key 12771 therein. For example, referring primarily to FIG. 66 , the spring 12782 is configured to bias the push plate 12780 laterally into engagement with the firing rod 12770 . Additionally, when the firing rod 12770 has been retracted proximally thereof, the leaf spring 12788 is allowed to return to the unstressed configuration (see Figures 60 and 61).

The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 12000 is shown at the completion of the third firing stroke in FIGS. 67-69 . By comparing Figures 66 and 67, the reader will readily understand that the firing rod 12770 has moved distally a distance X from point C to point D. Point D is also distal to point B (see Figure 64). The distal displacement distance X of the firing rod 12770 is configured to move the firing member 12760 a distance Y and move the slider assembly 12120 to the distal end 12113 of the staple cartridge 12110. During the third firing stroke, the pusher plate 12780 is advanced distally by the firing rod 12770.

During the third firing stroke, the push plate 12780 pushes the firing member 12760 distally until the firing member 12760 reaches the end of the passageway 12136. The pusher plate 12780 is configured to bypass the firing member 12760 when the upper flange 12762 of the firing member 12760 abuts the distal end of the passageway 12136 (or the firing member 12760 is otherwise prevented from traveling further distally) . For example, the leaf spring 12788 is configured to deflect toward the body 12786, which allows the push plate 12780 to fit within the notch 12766 in the firing member 12760. When the pusher plate 12780 is positioned within the notch 12766, the pusher plate 12780 is configured to travel distally past the firing member 12760. In certain instances, the push plate 12780 does not displace the firing member distally during the third firing stroke. For example, point B can be aligned with the distal end of passageway 12136.

At the completion of the third firing stroke, the slider assembly 12120 is positioned at the distal end 12113 of the staple cartridge 12110 and all of the staples 1126 in the depicted row have moved with the anvil 12130 to the forming position. Additionally, the slider assembly 12120 is configured to sink or move downward toward the cartridge support surface 12101 of the elongated channel 12102 upon completion of the third firing stroke. The sunken slider assembly 12120 shown in FIG. 67 is configured to enable the cutting edge 12124 to be shifted downward. For example, the cutting edge 12124 can be positioned below the platform of the staple cartridge 12110. In such a case, when the firing member 12760 is retracted and the anvil 12130 is pivoted to the open configuration, the cutting edge 12124 can be hidden within or hidden by the cartridge body 12111, which can prevent accidental cutting edge 12124 cuts and/or injuries. In certain instances, the main body 12111 of the staple cartridge 12110 includes a distal lumen into which the slider assembly 12120 is configured to be dropped or transferred upon completion of the third firing stroke.

Still referring to FIGS. 67-69 , the leaf springs 12788 are in an unstressed configuration such that they extend laterally outboard of the body 12786 . When in the unstressed configuration, the proximally outwardly positioned end 12789 of one of the leaf springs 12788 extends forward of the support portion 12763 of the firing member 12760 (see Figure 69). In other words, the end 12789 of the leaf spring 12788 extends beyond the notch 12766 and laterally overlaps the support portion 12763 of the firing member 12760. Thus, end 12789 acts as a spring loaded barb that captures firing member 12760 when pusher plate 12780 is subsequently retracted proximally.

During the fourth firing stroke, the pusher plate 12780 is retracted proximally. By comparing Figures 67 and 70, the reader will readily understand that the firing rod 12770 has moved proximally a distance Z from point D to point E. The firing rod 12770 is engaged with the push plate 12780 via the lock 12771 and the T-slot 12792, so the push plate 12780 is also retracted proximally with the firing rod 12770. Furthermore, since the end 12789 of one of the leaf springs 12788 is captured or otherwise engaged with the firing member 12760, retraction of the push plate 12780 also retracts the firing member 12760. The firing member 12760 in FIG. 70 has been retracted such that the upper flange 12762 is retracted from the passageway 12136 in the anvil 12130. In certain examples, the upper flange 12762 can be configured to engage the opening and closing cavity to open the anvil 12130 toward the open configuration when retracted to point E. Additionally, the slider assembly 12120, including its cutting edge 12124, remains concealed in the descending cavity at the distal end 12113 of the staple cartridge 12110.

In certain examples, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly can include a flexible spine that can allow at least a portion of the shaft to flex away from the linear configuration. The flexible spine is configured to move the end effector of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly vertically and/or horizontally relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Additionally or alternatively, in some instances, the end effector and/or the distal portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly may be configured to be rotatable relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The flexibility and rotatability of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly is configured to add to this sequence of actions such that the end effector can be manipulated to assume different positions relative to the target tissue. Additionally, flexibility and rotatability can be configured to increase operator visibility at the surgical site.

Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000 is shown in FIGS. 71-74. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000 includes end effector 1100 including elongated channel 1102 , anvil 1130 and firing member 1760 . A staple cartridge 1110 (see FIGS. 72 and 74 ) is removably positioned in the elongated channel 1102 . The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000 also includes a shaft portion 14400 that includes a flexible spine 14402. Flexible spines for surgical instruments are further described in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/138,554 (now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0173789), entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE SHAFT ARRANGEMENTS," filed December 23, 2013 The application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The flexible spine 14402 includes a vertebral body 14404 and a distal tube segment 14440 mounted to the vertebral body 14404 (see Figure 74). The vertebral body 14404 includes a central portion 14408 and a laterally symmetrical pair of vertebrae 14406 extending from the central portion 14408. The vertebrae 14406 are positioned along each side 14410, 14412 of the vertebral body 14404. The vertebrae 14406 along the length of the vertebral body 14404 are nested. For example, each vertebra 14406 includes a protrusion, and an adjacent vertebra 14406 includes a corresponding recess into which the protrusion protrudes. The interlocking protrusions and recesses are configured to limit twisting or twisting of the vertebral body 14404 .

Adjacent vertebrae 14406 in the vertebral bodies 14404 are separated by gaps 14405 when the vertebral bodies 14404 are in the linear orientation. For example, a gap 14405 may extend between the interlocking protrusions and recesses. The gaps 14405 between adjacent vertebrae 14406 are configured to allow the vertebral bodies 14404 to articulate in the articulation plane.

Referring primarily to Figures 72 and 73, in order to articulate the flexible spine 14402 and the distal tube segment 14440 mounted thereon, by passing the articulation band 14420 longitudinally through the channel along each respective side 14410, 14412 of the vertebral body 14404 During sexual movement, the respective sides 14410, 14412 of the vertebral body 14404 are simultaneously compressed and expanded. The distal end of the articulation strap 14420 is anchored to the articulation head 14430, which is mounted or otherwise secured to the distal tube segment 14440. For example, the articulation strap 14420 terminates at a distal loop 14422 positioned around the attachment tabs 14432 on the articulation head 14430. Accordingly, the reciprocating motion of the articulation band 14420 is configured to enable the articulation head 14430 and the distal tube segment 14440 to articulate relative to the flexible spine 14402. Articulation band 14420 may be comprised of a metal band, eg, which may be at least partially enclosed or encased in plastic. In various cases, the articulation band may be actuated (ie, proximally or Distal displacement).

The end effector 1100 is also configured to articulate when the vertebral body 14404 is flexed and the distal tube segment 14440 is articulated. More specifically, end effector 1100 includes proximal mounting portion 14450. Referring primarily to FIG. 74 , proximal mounting portion 14450 is mounted to elongated channel 1102 . For example, proximal mounting portion 14450 may be secured to and/or formed integrally with elongated channel 1102 . The proximal mounting portion 14450 is positioned adjacent the distal tube segment 14440 and the articulating head 14430 therein. As described further herein, thrust bearing 14460 is positioned intermediate proximal mounting portion 14450 and distal tube segment 14440 such that proximal mounting portion 14450 can rotate relative to distal tube segment 14440. The proximal mounting portion 14450 and end effector 1100 extending therefrom are also configured to be capable of articulation when the distal tube segment 14440 is articulated.

In various cases, the end effector 1100 may also be configured to be rotatable about the longitudinal axis of the shaft portion 14000 . For example, the end effector 1100 can rotate relative to the flexible spine 14402. Interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000 includes a shaft of rotation 14470 that extends proximally from proximal mounting portion 14450. Rotation shaft 14470 can extend proximally through distal tube segment 14440 and flexible spine 14402 and can be secured at a rotational coupling in the handle assembly. The rotation shaft 14470 and the proximal mounting portion 14450 can be connected such that rotation of the rotation shaft 14470 causes rotation of the proximal mounting portion 14450, which in turn also causes rotation of the end effector 1100. For example, the rotation shaft 14470 may be fixed and/or integral with the proximal mounting portion 14450. In other examples, rotation transfer features, such as gear teeth, for example, may be configured to transfer rotation of the rotation shaft 14470 to the proximal mounting portion 14450.

The axis of rotation 14470 extends through the flexible spine 14402. For example, the axis of rotation 14470 can be concentric with the flexible spine 14402 and its vertebral body 14404. Although the rotational shaft 14470 extends through and rotates within the flexible spine 14402 , the rotation of the rotational shaft 14470 is not transmitted to the flexible spine 14402 . For example, thrust bearing 14460 intermediate proximal mounting portion 14450 and articulation head 1430 is configured to allow proximal mounting portion 14450 to rotate relative to articulation head 1430 . In other examples, the flexible spine 14402 can be configured to rotate with the rotational shaft 14470 , and the thrust bearing 14460 can be positioned intermediate the flexible spine 14402 and the non-rotatable portion of the shaft 14400 .

Referring primarily to Figure 73, the rotating shaft 14470 may be serrated or notched. The serrations and/or notches are configured to allow the shaft of rotation 14470 to flex within the flexible spine 14402. While allowing the rotational shaft 14470 to flex, the serrations can be configured to limit twisting or twisting of the rotational shaft 14470 so that rotational motion generated at its proximal end can be effectively transmitted to the distal end of the rotational shaft 14470, and It is thus passed on to the proximal mounting portion 14450.

Referring primarily to Figures 73 and 74, the shaft portion 14400 includes a longitudinally movable firing rod 14770 that is similar in many respects to the firing rod 1770 (see Figures 3-5). During the firing stroke, a drive member in the handle assembly (eg, drive member 540 in handle assembly 500, see Figs. 1 and 2) drives the firing rod via the drive member (eg, drive member 1602, see Fig. 2) The firing action of 1770 is passed to firing member 1760. For example, actuation of the drive member 540 can be configured to displace the firing rod 14770 and the firing member 1760 distally to cut tissue and effect firing of the staples from the staple cartridge 1110. The drive member 540 can then be retracted proximally to retract the firing rod 14770 and the firing member 1760 proximally. The firing rod 14770 is configured to flex within the flexible spine 14402.

The firing rod 14770 is concentric with the axis of rotation 14470 . Additionally, when the rotation shaft 14470 is rotated within the flexible spine 14402, the firing rod 14770 is configured to also rotate. For example, the firing rod 14770 extends distally to a firing member 1760 having an upper flange 1462 constrained by the anvil 1130 and a lower flange 1464 constrained by the elongated channel 1102 . As the end effector 1100 rotates with the axis of rotation 14470, the firing member 1760 positioned in the end effector 1100 is also configured to rotate as described herein.

As described herein, the swivel joint between the proximal mounting portion 14450 and the distal tube segment 14440 is located distal to the articulating vertebral body 14404. Thus, rotation of the end effector 1100 occurs distal of the articulation area of the shaft portion 14400. In other examples, interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000 may include alternative and/or additional articulation joints and/or regions. For example, various additional articulation joints are further described herein. In such cases, the swivel joint between the proximal mounting portion 14450 and the distal tube segment 14440 may be positioned distal of the distal-most articulation joint.

In various circumstances, translation of the firing member 1760 and/or the firing rod 14770 may be prevented until an unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the end effector 1100 . For example, the various latching devices disclosed herein may be incorporated into end effector 1100 and/or interchangeable surgical tool assembly 14000. While translation of the firing member 1760 and/or the firing rod 14770 may be prevented under such circumstances, rotation of the firing member and the firing rod 14770 with the rotational axis 14470 and the end effector 1100 may be permitted by such a latch.

Turning next to Figures 75-81, a portion of another surgical instrument embodiment 15010 of the present invention is shown. In the arrangement shown, the surgical instrument 15010 includes a shaft assembly 15100 that can be operably coupled to a handle assembly or a housing (not shown) in the form of part of a robotic system. For example, the shaft assembly 15100 can be operably coupled to the handle assemblies and other drive devices disclosed above and/or the various handle assemblies, firing and articulation drive systems disclosed in the following documents, or otherwise be Constructed for use with the handle assemblies and other drive devices disclosed above and/or with the various handle assemblies, firing and articulation drive systems disclosed in the document entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR SIGNALCOMMUNICATION" US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246471, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

As can be seen in Figure 75, the shaft assembly 15100 includes a spine member 15110 that operably supports a proximal rotational drive shaft 15120 that is associated with a source of rotational motion (eg, supported in a handle assembly or robotic system) the motor or motor device) is operatively interfaced. In the arrangement shown, the proximal rotational drive shaft 15120 is flexible to accommodate articulation of a portion of the shaft assembly 15100. For example, the rotary drive shaft may comprise a somewhat flexible cable. The spine member 15110 defines a shaft axis SA and may be coupled to the handle assembly or robotic system, eg, in various known manners, to facilitate selective rotation of the spine member 15110 relative to the handle assembly or robotic system about the shaft axis SA. In the embodiment shown, shaft assembly 15100 includes a proximal or "first" articulation joint 15130 that defines a first articulation axis AA1 transverse to shaft axis SA; and a distal or "second" articulation joint 15150, which defines a second articulation axis AA2 also transverse to the shaft axis SA and the first articulation axis AA1.

Referring now to FIG. 76 , the proximal or first articulation joint 15130 includes a first channel mounting assembly 15132 pivotally coupled to the distal end 15112 of the spine member 15110 by a first articulation pin 15134 . The first articulation pin 15134 defines a first articulation axis AA1 about which the first channel mounting assembly 15132 can pivot. The illustrated shaft assembly 15100 includes a first articulation system 15136 that includes a first axially movable articulation actuator 15138 that interacts with a first shaft in a handle assembly or robotic system Operatively handoff to the articulation action source. This first axial articulation action is represented by arrows AD1 and AD2 in FIG. 76 . As seen in FIG. 76 , the distal end 15139 of the first axially movable articulation member 15138 is pivotally pinned to the first channel mounting assembly 15132 by an attachment pin 15135 . Axial movement of the first articulation actuator 15138 in the first articulation direction AD1 and the second articulation direction AD2 will result in pivotal travel of the first channel mounting assembly 15132 relative to the spine member 15110 about the first articulation axis AA1 .

Still referring to FIG. 76 , the distal or second articulation joint 15150 includes a second channel mounting member 15152 pivotally coupled to the first channel mounting assembly 15132 by a second articulation pin 15154 . The second articulation pin 15154 defines a second articulation axis AA2 about which the second channel mounting member 15152 is pivotable relative to the first channel mounting assembly 15132. See Figure 75. The illustrated shaft assembly 15100 also includes a second articulation system 15160 that includes a second annular articulation member 15162 journaled on a proximal idler gear 15164, The proximal idler is rotatably supported on a pulley shaft 15165 that is attached to the spine member 15110. The second annular articulation member 15162 is also attached to an articulation pulley 15156 that is non-removably attached to or formed on the second channel mounting member 15152 such that the second annular articulation member 15162 is over the idler pulley Rotation on 15164 will cause the second channel mounting member 15152 to pivot relative to the first channel mounting assembly 15132 about the second articulation axis AA2. The second articulation system 15160 also includes a second axially movable articulation actuator 15166 that operably interfaces with a second axial articulation source in the handle assembly or robotic system. This second axial articulation is represented by arrows AD3 and AD4 in FIG. 76 . As can be seen in FIG. 76 , the distal end 15167 of the second axially movable articulation member 15166 is clamped to a portion of the second annular articulation member 15162 by the clamping member 15168 . The clamping member 15168 includes a cable guide hole 15169 therethrough for slidably supporting another portion of the second annular articulation member 15162 during application of the second articulation motion thereto.

In the embodiment shown, the anvil member 15200 is movably coupled to the shaft assembly 15100. Anvil 15200 may be similar to anvil 1130 described above. For example, the anvil 15200 is pivotally coupled to the second channel mounting member 15162 for selective pivotal travel therewith. As can be seen in FIG. 76, the anvil 15200 includes an anvil body 15202 that includes a staple forming portion 15204 and an anvil mounting portion 15210. Anvil mounting portion 15210 includes a downwardly extending sidewall 15212, commonly referred to as a tissue stop, the purpose of which was previously described herein.

In the example shown, the second channel mounting member 15152 includes two distally projecting anvil mounting portions 15190, each having a pin hole 15192 therein adapted to receive a corresponding anvil therein Seat attachment pin 15193. Anvil attachment pins 15193 are received in pin holes 15192 and in corresponding apertures 15213 in sidewall 15212 of anvil 15200 . The pins can be pressed into the openings 15213 as described above. This arrangement creates a pivot joint 15191 that facilitates pivotal travel of the anvil 15200 relative to the second channel mounting member 15152 while remaining attached thereto. In this arrangement, the anvil 15200 is not intended to be separated from the shaft assembly 15100 or, more specifically, the second channel mounting member 15152 during normal use. Thus, as used in the context of describing the attachment of the anvil 15200 to the shaft assembly 15100, the term "non-removably attached" means that the anvil 15200 remains during operation of a surgical instrument and when other surgical staple cartridges are operably installed Attached to shaft assembly 15100, as will be discussed in further detail below.

76 and 77, the surgical instrument 15010 also includes a channel 15300 configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 15400 therein. In the embodiment shown, the channel 15300 includes a proximal attachment portion 15302 that is configured to be removably attached to the second channel mounting member 15152. For example, the second channel mounting member 15152 includes a mounting body or mounting hub portion 15194 having two channel attachment slots 15196 formed therein that are configured to receive Corresponding channel track 15304 on proximal attachment portion 15302 of channel 15300. As can be seen in Figure 77, the channel 15300 is movably attached to the shaft assembly 15100 by inserting the channel track 15304 into the corresponding channel attachment slot 15196 in the second channel mounting member 15152 along the mounting direction ID transverse to the shaft axis SA . In the example shown, channel 15300 is removably locked to shaft assembly 15100 by locking member 15350.

Still referring to FIGS. 76 and 77 , in the example shown, the locking member 15350 includes a distal tube section 15352 that is axially movably supported on the mounting hub portion 15194 of the second channel mounting member 15152 . The distal tube segment 15352 can be pivotally attached to a flexible proximal tube segment (not shown) of the shaft assembly 15100 to facilitate articulation about the first and second articulation axes. The distal tube section 15352 is configured to be axially movable between a distal most "locked" position and a proximal "unlocked" position, in which the distal tube section 15352 prevents the channel 15300 in the removal direction RD Disengaged from the shaft assembly 15100, in the proximal "unlocked" position, the distal tube segment 15352 is positioned proximal of the channel attachment slot 15196 to enable the channel 15300 to be separated from the shaft assembly 15100. Thus, the distal tube section 15352 is coupled to the proximal tube section for axial movement relative thereto, or the entire assembly (distal tube section 15352 and proximal tube section) may be axially movable. As seen in FIGS. 76-79 , clearance slots 15309 are provided in the upstanding side walls 15308 of the elongated channel 15300 to accommodate anvil attachment pins 15193 that attach the anvil 15200 to the second channel mounting member 15152. When the anvil 15200 is closed and the elongated channel 15300 is attached to the second channel mounting member 15152, the anvil sidewalls 15212 are spaced apart from each corresponding anvil mounting portion 15190 to accommodate the corresponding sidewalls 15308 of the elongated channel 15300.

In one arrangement, surgical staple cartridge 15400 includes a cartridge body 15402 configured to snap or otherwise removably retain within channel 15200 for easy replacement after use. Cartridge body 15402 includes a centrally disposed elongated slot 15404 configured to accommodate axial travel of firing member 15500 therethrough. Cartridge body 15402 also includes a plurality of staple pockets 15406 therein. In the example shown, the staple pockets 15406 are arranged in two rows on each side of the elongated slot 15404. The staple pockets 15406 in a row are staggered relative to the staple pockets 15406 in adjacent rows of staple pockets. In the example shown, each staple pocket 15406 contains "direct drive" surgical staples 1126 therein. In the arrangement depicted in Figure 79, the surgical staples 1126 are movably supported within the staple pockets 15406 and are configured such that a separate movable staple driver is not used. Figure 80 shows an alternative arrangement in which conventional surgical staples 1126' are each supported on staple drivers 15412 rather than within staple pockets 15406' in cartridge body 15402'. As the firing member 15500' is driven distally through the surgical staple cartridge 15400', the staple driver 15412 is driven upwardly within the surgical staple cartridge. Further details regarding the operation of the firing member 15500' and the staple driver 15412 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/308,240 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND OPERATING SYSTEMS THEREFOR" (now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0299648) , the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Turning next to FIGS. 78 and 81 , in the example shown, the proximal rotational drive shaft 15120 extends through the second channel mounting member 15152 and is rotatably supported by the bearing assembly 15122 therein. The distal end 15124 of the proximal rotational drive shaft 15120 has attached thereto a firing member drive gear 15126 configured for operative communication with a distal rotational drive mounted within the elongated channel 15300 The shaft assembly 15310 is engaged. The distal rotational drive shaft assembly 15310 includes a proximal shaft end 15312 having a firing member driven gear 15314 attached thereto. The proximal shaft end 15312 is rotatably supported in a proximal shaft bearing 15316 that is mounted in the proximal attachment portion 15302 of the channel 15300. See Figures 77 and 81. The distal rotary drive shaft assembly 15310 also includes a distal shaft end 15320 rotatably supported in a distal shaft bearing 15322 supported in a distal end 15306 of the channel 15300 . See Figure 78. The central portion 15330 of the distal rotational drive shaft assembly 15310 is threaded for threaded driving engagement with the threaded drive nut portion 15502 of the firing member 15500.

In one example, the firing member 15500 includes an upstanding body 15504 extending upwardly from the threaded drive nut portion 15502 and having a tissue cutting surface 15506 formed thereon or attached thereto. In at least one embodiment, the firing member body 15504 has a slider assembly 15540 formed thereon or attached thereto. In other arrangements, the slider assembly may not be attached to the firing member 15500, but rather be configured to be capable of being driven distally through the surgical staple cartridge 15400 as the firing member 15500 is driven distally through the surgical staple cartridge 15400. The slider assembly 15540 includes a series of wedge-shaped cams 15542 configured to engage the staples 1126 or drivers 15412 via cams to cammingly drive the staples up into contact with the staple forming lower surface 15220 on the anvil 15200. See Figure 79. As can be seen in FIG. 77, for example, the staple-forming lower surface 15220 includes a series of staple-forming pockets 15222 corresponding to each staple within the surgical staple cartridge 15400. The staple is formed or closed when the staple legs contact the forming pocket. See, eg, staple 1126' shown in FIG. 80 . In the embodiment shown, the firing member driven gear 15314 is configured to meshingly engage the firing member drive gear 15126 on the proximal drive shaft 15120 when the channel 15300 is attached to the second channel mounting member 15152 of the shaft assembly 15100 . Thus, rotation of the proximal drive shaft 15120 will cause rotation of the distal drive shaft assembly 15310. Rotation of the proximal drive shaft 15120 in the first rotational direction will cause the firing member 15500 to be driven distally within the channel 15300, and rotation of the proximal drive shaft 15120 in the second rotational direction will cause the firing member 15500 to be driven proximally within the channel 15300. Drive in the side direction.

The firing member 15500 defines an I-shaped beam-like structure and includes a lower flange portion 15560 formed by two laterally extending flanges 15562 extending from the threaded drive nut portion 15502. Additionally, the firing member includes an upper flange portion 15564 formed by two laterally extending flanges 15566. The firing member body 15504 extends through the elongated channel slot 15301 in the elongated channel 15300 , the elongated slot 15404 in the surgical staple cartridge 15400 , and the anvil slot 15230 in the anvil 15200 . For example, the firing member body 15504 extends through a centrally positioned channel slot 15301 in the elongated channel 15300 such that the lower flange 15562 is movably positioned within the passageway 15303 defined by the elongated channel 15300. In the embodiment shown in Figure 77, the bottom of the channel 15300 is open. A plate 15305 is attached thereto to provide it with increased stiffness. Plate 15305 has a series of windows 15307 therein to enable the surgeon to view the position of firing member 15500 through these windows during firing and retraction.

In the embodiment shown, the anvil member 15200 is moved by the firing member 15500 between an open position and a closed position. As described above, the firing member body 15504 extends through the elongated slot 15404 in the cartridge body. The top end 15505 of the firing member body 15504 is configured to extend into the anvil slot 15230 in the staple forming portion 15204 of the anvil body 15202. See Figure 77. The tip 15505 extends through the anvil slot 15230 such that the upper flange 15566 is movably positioned within the passageway 15232 (see FIG. 79 ) defined by the anvil 15200 . For example, passageway 15232 may be defined by anvil 15200. I-beam flanges 15562 and 15566 provide camming surfaces that interact with elongated channel 15300 and anvil 15200, respectively, to open and grip or close the jaws, as described further herein. Additionally, the firing member 15500 is configured to maintain a constant distance between the elongated channel 15300 and the anvil 15200 along the length of the end effector 1100 .

At the beginning of the firing stroke, the firing member 15500 is configured to move distally from an initial position. As the firing member 15500 is moved distally, the anvil 15200 is pivoted toward the clamped configuration by the I-beam structure of the firing member 15500. More specifically, the lower flange 15562 of the firing member 15500 moves through the passageway 15303 defined by the elongated channel 15300 and the upper flange 15566 moves along the ramp surface 15234 of the anvil 15200 and then through the passageway 15232 defined by the anvil 15200 .

Referring primarily to Figures 79 and 81, ramp surface 15234 defines an open and closed cavity 15236 in anvil 15200 through which a portion of firing member 15500 extends during a portion of the firing stroke. For example, the upper flange 15566 protrudes from the anvil 15200 via the opening and closing cavity 15236. The ramp surface 15234 slopes downward along the proximal open surface 15238, extends along the middle portion 15239, and slopes upward along the distal closure slope 15234. The upper flange 15566 is spaced apart from the intermediate portion 15239 when the firing member 15500 is in the initial or home position. In other words, the upper flange 15566 is not in cam engagement with the opening and closing cavity 15236. In the home position, the firing member 15500 can rest relative to the opening and closing cavity 15234 such that the firing member 15500 applies neither an opening force nor a closing force to the anvil 15200.

From the home position, the firing member 15500 can be retracted proximally. As the firing member 15500 continues to move proximally, the upper flange 15566 of the firing member 15500 that engages the proximal open surface 15238 is configured to apply an opening force on the proximal open surface 15238. As the upper flange 15566 moves against the proximal open surface 15238, the proximal open surface 15238 pivots, which causes the anvil 15200 to pivot open. When the upper flange 15566 exerts a downward force on the proximal open surface 15238, the anvil 15200 is pushed upward by leverage on the proximal open surface 15238.

From the retracted position, the firing member 15500 can be advanced distally to return to the original position. To close the end effector, the firing member 15500 can be further advanced from the home position to the advanced position. The upper flange 15566 is spaced from the ramp surface 15234 for a portion of the firing action intermediate the home and advanced positions. For example, the upper flange 15566 hovers or rests over the middle portion 15239 as the firing member 15500 transitions between closing and opening motions. For example, the dwell portion of the firing action may be configured to prevent jamming of the opening action and/or the closing action.

As the firing member 15500 moves distally, the flange 15566 contacts the ramp surface 15234 to exert a downward force on the anvil 15200 to pivot closed. As the firing member 15500 continues to move in the distal direction, the upper flange 15566 moves through the passageway 15232 to ensure a constant distance between the anvil 15200 and the elongated passageway 15300 along the length of the end effector. For example, the passageway 15232 includes a lower protrusion and an upper cover that define the lower and upper limits of the passageway 15232. During the firing stroke, the upper flange 15566 is constrained within these lower and upper limits. The upper flange 15566 can be sized to fit snugly within the confines of the passageway 15232. In other examples, the upper flange 15566 can be configured to float and/or adjust vertically within the passageway 15232, as further described herein.

The firing member 15500 is a multifunctional firing member. For example, the firing member 15500 is configured to drive the slider assembly 15540 to fire the staples 1126 from the surgical staple cartridge 15400, cut tissue held between the jaws 15200 and 15300, cam the jaws 15200 at the beginning of the firing stroke Movement into the gripping configuration and camming the jaws 15200 into the open configuration upon completion of the firing stroke. The firing member 15500 can achieve combined surgical functions with a single actuation system. Thus, the multifunctional firing member 15500 can minimize the separate actuation systems required to fit within the footprint of the end effector. Additionally, the elongated channel and surgical staple cartridge 15400 can be replaced as a unit without separating or replacing the anvil 15200. In an alternative arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 15400 can be replaced without replacing the elongated channel 15300, whether the elongated channel 15300 remains attached to the shaft assembly 15100 or has been detached from the shaft assembly. Additionally, as can be seen in Figures 83-85, the elongated channel 15300 and the surgical staple cartridge 15400 and anvil 15200 are selectively pivotable in a plurality of articulation planes AP1, AP2 that are perpendicular to each other.

86-89 illustrate portions of another surgical instrument embodiment 16010 of the present invention. In the arrangement shown, surgical instrument 16010 includes a shaft assembly 16100 that can be operably coupled to a handle assembly or a housing (not shown) in the form of part of a robotic system. For example, the shaft assembly 16100 may be operably coupled to the various drive devices disclosed herein and/or the various handle assemblies, firing and articulation drive systems disclosed in the following documents, or otherwise be configured to interact with The various drive devices disclosed herein are used in conjunction with and/or in conjunction with the various handle assemblies, firing and articulation drive systems disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITHARTICULATABLE SHAFT ARRANGEMENTS" .2015/0173789, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

As shown in FIGS. 86-89 , the illustrated shaft assembly includes a flexible shaft portion 16110 . The flexible shaft portion 16110 may be of the type and configuration disclosed in more detail in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0173789. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the specific details of flexible shaft portion 16110 will not be discussed herein except as necessary to understand the construction and operation of surgical instrument 16010. In various arrangements, the flexible shaft portion 16110 may comprise a segment of the shaft assembly 16100 and be attached, for example, to an attachment rod portion (not shown) coupled to a housing (handle, robotic system, etc.) such as Interchangeable shaft arrangements are described in the aforementioned US patent applications or those disclosed herein. Flexible shaft portion 16110 may be made of rigid thermoplastic polyurethane, such as available from The Dow Chemical Company as ISOPLAST grade 2510, and includes a centrally positioned, vertically extending articulation ridge 16112. Articulation spine 16112 includes a centrally positioned feature or knife slot 16114 to facilitate passage of various control features therethrough. See Figure 87. In the arrangement shown, the knife slot 16114 movably supports the central firing beam or rod 16200 therein. The flexible shaft portion 16110 also includes a plurality of right ribs 16116 and a plurality of left ribs 16118 that can be integrally formed with the articulation spine 16112 and project laterally therefrom. Right rib 16116 and left rib 16118 have arcuate shapes to provide flexible shaft portion 16110 with a generally circular cross-sectional shape. This shape may facilitate passage of the flexible shaft portion 16110 through a circular channel, such as a suitably sized trocar.

In various arrangements, each right rib 16116 serves to define a right articulation channel for movably receiving a right articulation strap 16120 therethrough. The right articulation strap 16120 can extend through the right articulation channel and be coupled to the connector assembly 16150. For example, the distal end 16122 of the right articulation strap 16120 can have a right hook portion 16124 adapted to couple to the right attachment portion 16152 of the connector assembly 16150. See Figure 89. Similarly, each left rib 16118 serves to define a left articulation channel for movably receiving a left articulation strap 16130 therethrough. Left articulation strap 16130 can extend through the left articulation channel and be coupled to connector assembly 16150. For example, the distal end 16132 of the left articulation strap 16130 can have a left hook portion 16134 adapted to couple to the left attachment portion 16154 of the connector assembly 16150. In the example shown, right articulation band 16120 and left articulation band 16130 are capable of interfacing with an articulation system in the handle or housing, such as, for example, the articulation system disclosed in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0173789 or The interchangeable shaft arrangement articulation systems disclosed herein) are operably interfaced.

Referring now to FIG. 87, in the example shown, the connector assembly 16150 has a proximal outer tube member 16160 mounted thereon. As can be seen in Figure 89, the proximal outer tube member 16160 may have the same outer diameter as the outer diameter of the flexible shaft portion 16110 to facilitate its insertion through a trocar cannula or other channel. The open proximal end 16162 is sized to be immovably received on the distal mounting hub 16119 on the distal end 16111 of the flexible shaft portion 16110. The proximal outer tube member 16160 has an open distal end 16163 and an inner flange 16164 formed therein. As can be seen in FIG. 89, the right articulation band 16120 and the left articulation band 16130 are free to move axially within the proximal outer tube member 16160. The connector assembly 16150 is configured to facilitate rapid attachment and detachment of the surgical end effector 16300 from the shaft assembly 16100.

In the example shown, the end effector 16300 includes an elongated channel 16310 configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge 1110 therein. The elongated channel 16310 may be substantially similar to the elongated channel 1102 described in detail above, except that the elongated channel 16310 includes a proximal end portion 16312 having a distal end immovably attached thereto Tube Connector 16314. The distal tube connector 16314 protrudes proximally from the proximal end portion 16312 of the channel 16310 and includes a proximal mounting hub portion 16316 sized to be received in the proximal outer tube member 16160 Inside the open distal end 16163. See Figure 89. Additionally, the distal tube connector 16314 includes a pair of diametrically opposed inwardly extending bayonet pins 16318 and 16320. The bayonet pins 16318 are configured to be received within corresponding slots 16156 in the distal end 16155 of the connector assembly 16150 and the bayonet pins 16320 are configured to be received in corresponding slots in the distal end 16155 of the connector assembly 16150 inside slot 16158. See Figure 88. Additionally, biasing member 16170 is received within open distal end 16163 of proximal outer tube member 16160 in butt engagement with inner flange 16164. In the arrangement shown, for example, the biasing member 16170 comprises a wave spring. See Figure 87 and Figure 89. To attach the surgical end effector 16300 to the shaft assembly 16100, the proximal mounting hub portion 16316 of the distal connector tube is inserted into the open distal end 16163 of the proximal outer tube member 16160 such that the bayonet pin 16318 engages with the Slots 16156 in connector assembly 16150 are aligned and bayonet pins 16320 are aligned with slots 16158. The end effector 16300 is then moved in the proximal direction PD and rotated about the shaft axis until the bayonet pin 16318 is seated in the retaining groove 16157 in the connector assembly 16150 and the bayonet pin 16320 is seated in the retaining groove 16159 . See Figure 88. The biasing member 16170 applies a biasing action toward the distal tube connector 16314 to retain the bayonet pins 16318, 16320 seated in their respective retention grooves 16157, 16159. To separate the end effector 16300 from the shaft assembly 16100, the user applies force to the surgical end effector 16300 in the proximal direction to compress the biasing member 16170, and then rotates the surgical end effector 16300 in the opposite direction to disengage the bayonet pin 16318, 16320 are withdrawn from their respective retention grooves 16157, 16159, and the surgical end effector 16300 is then pulled away from the connector assembly 16150 in the distal direction DD.

In at least one embodiment, surgical end effector 16300 includes anvil 1130, as described in detail above. The elongated channel 16310 includes upstanding side walls 16330 each having a pin hole 16332 therein. See Figure 87. Anvil 1130 is pivotally attached to elongated channel 16310 by pivot pins 1152 that extend through apertures 1131 on each side of anvil 1130 and into pin holes 16332 in a manner discussed in detail above.

As can be seen in FIG. 87, the elongated channel 16310 is configured to operably support the staple cartridge 1110 therein. Surgical instrument 16010 also includes a firing member 16210 that is similar to firing member 1760 described above, except that firing member 16210 is configured for rapid axial attachment to and rapid separation from firing beam 16200. The firing beam 16200 may be constructed of a plurality of laminates and configured to flex sufficiently to accommodate articulation of the end effector relative to the shaft assembly. In the example shown, the firing member 16210 includes a proximally protruding coupler 16212 that is configured to be movably inserted into a corresponding retention cavity 16204 formed on the distal end 16202 of the firing beam 16200. In one arrangement, the coupler 16212 includes a slightly arrow-shaped member, and the retention cavity 16204 is shaped accordingly to retain the firing member in the coupling engagement during normal operation (eg, firing and retraction) of the surgical instrument 16010, However, separation of the firing member 16210 from the firing beam 16200 is facilitated when the surgical end effector 16300 is separated from the shaft assembly 16100. Actuation of the firing member 16210 otherwise facilitates opening and closing of the anvil 1130 in the various manners disclosed herein. This arrangement facilitates easy attachment and detachment of the surgical end effector from the shaft assembly. Thus, when replacing the entire end effector, this arrangement can be used to provide the user with a new (unused) firing member and tissue cutting surface, as well as a new anvil and cartridge. However, if desired, the user can replace only the cartridge without replacing the entire end effector. The firing member 16210 operates in a similar manner to the firing member 1760 described above, and is used to interact with the slider 1120 to fire staples from the staple cartridge 1110 in the manner described herein.

Example

Embodiment 1 - An interchangeable surgical tool assembly including an end effector, wherein the end effector includes a slider and a cutting edge. The interchangeable tool assembly also includes a firing lever operably configured to fire the slide and cutting edge, wherein the firing lever includes a distal engagement portion, and wherein the firing lever is movable from the first proximal position to the A first distal position, moving from a second proximal position to a second distal position. The interchangeable tool assembly also includes a push rod assembly, wherein the push rod assembly includes a plate including a proximal engagement portion, wherein the proximal engagement portion is selectively coupled to the distal engagement portion, and the spring is configured to The proximal engagement portion is laterally biased into engagement with the distal engagement portion when the firing rod is moved from the first distal position to the second proximal position.

Embodiment 2—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 1, further comprising a firing member, wherein the firing rod is configured to be able to move distally when the firing rod is moved from the first proximal position to the first distal position Push the firing member sideways.

Embodiment 3—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 2, wherein the firing member includes a first flange configured to engage a first jaw of an end effector, an end A second flange of the second jaw of the upper actuator and a support portion extending between the first flange and the second flange. A notch is defined in the support portion, and the plate is configured to slide distally through the notch when the firing rod is moved from the second proximal position to the second distal position.

Embodiment 4—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 3, wherein the plate includes a spring-loaded catch configured to retract proximally when the plate is fired by the firing rod When engaging the support part.

Embodiment 5—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the first proximal location is distal to the second proximal location.

Embodiment 6—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5, wherein the first distal location is proximal to the second distal location.

Embodiment 7—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the cutting edge is integrally formed with the slider.

Embodiment 8—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the proximal engagement portion includes a t-slot, and wherein the distal engagement portion includes a key .

Embodiment 9 - An interchangeable surgical tool assembly comprising an end effector, wherein the end effector comprises a first jaw, a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw; and a slider, The slider is configured to translate relative to the first and second jaws. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a firing member, wherein the firing member includes a first flange configured to engage the first jaw and a second flange configured to engage the second jaw. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a push plate and a firing rod selectively coupled to the push plate, wherein the firing rod is configured to be movable through a plurality of successive firing strokes. The plurality of consecutive firing strokes include: a first distal firing stroke in which the firing rod is configured to push the firing member distally; and a first proximal firing stroke in which the firing rod is configured to push the firing member distally; During the side firing stroke, the firing rod is configured to retract proximally into engagement with the pusher plate. The plurality of consecutive firing strokes also include: a second distal firing stroke in which the firing rod is configured to advance the pusher plate distally past the firing member, and a second proximal firing stroke , in the second proximal firing stroke, the firing rod is configured to retract the pusher plate and firing member proximally.

Embodiment 10—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 9, wherein the firing member is configured to urge the slider distally during the first distal firing stroke.

Embodiment 11—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 9 or 10, wherein the pusher plate is configured to push the slider distally during the second distal firing stroke.

Embodiment 12—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 9, 10, or 11, wherein the push plate includes a leaf spring having an end, and wherein the end is The firing member is engaged when retracted proximally during the side firing stroke.

Embodiment 13—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 9, 10, 11, or 12, wherein the slider includes a cutting edge.

Embodiment 14—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 13, further comprising a staple cartridge removably positioned in the first jaw, wherein the first jaw includes a distal cavity that is is configured to receive the cutting edge upon completion of the second distal firing stroke.

Embodiment 15 - The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 9, further comprising a spring configured to bias the pusher plate laterally into engagement with the firing rod during the first proximal firing stroke.

Example 16 - An interchangeable surgical tool assembly comprising an end effector, wherein the end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw, the first jaw comprising a proximal end, the second The jaw is rotatably coupled to the first jaw. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a distal mounting portion fixedly attached to the proximal end and a proximal mounting portion rotatably attached to the distal mounting portion. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a rotational bearing intermediate the proximal and distal mounting portions and a rotational shaft extending from the distal mounting portion through the proximal mounting portion, wherein rotation of the rotational shaft is configured to enable rotation of the rotational shaft Rotate the distal mounting section. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly also includes a flexible spine extending from the proximal mounting portion, wherein the flexible spine includes a plurality of laterally symmetrical vertebrae.

Embodiment 17—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 16, further comprising a firing member configured to translate with the axis of rotation, wherein the firing member includes a first flange and a second flange , the first flange is configured to cam engage the opening and closing cavity in the first jaw, and the second flange is configured to cam engage the second jaw.

Embodiment 18—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 16 or 17, wherein the shaft of rotation includes a plurality of perforations for allowing the shaft of rotation to flex within the flexible spine.

Embodiment 19—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 16, 17, or 18, wherein the flexible spine includes a plurality of gaps positioned medially adjacent the laterally symmetrical vertebrae.

Embodiment 20—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 16, 17, 18, or 19, wherein the flexible spine includes an articulation head mounted to the proximal mounting portion, wherein the articulation head includes a pair of Attachment tabs and a pair of flexible attachment straps extending distally to the respective attachment tabs.

Embodiment 21 - A surgical instrument comprising a shaft assembly defining a shaft axis, wherein the shaft assembly includes a proximal articulation joint and a distal articulation joint, the proximal articulation joint defining a first articulation transverse to the shaft axis An axis, the distal articulation joint defines a second articulation axis transverse to the shaft axis and the first articulation axis. The surgical instrument also includes a drive shaft and a movable anvil, the drive shaft being configured to transmit rotational drive action from a source of rotational drive action. The surgical instrument also includes a channel configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge therein, the channel configured to be removably attachable to the shaft assembly. The surgical instrument also includes a firing member movably supported in the channel and configured to operably interface with the drive shaft when the channel is operably coupled to the shaft assembly, wherein the firing member is capable of being proximally of the first Operably movable between a position in which the firing member applies an opening motion to the anvil in a first proximal position and a closed position in which the firing member applies a closing motion to the anvil.

Embodiment 22—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 21, wherein the channel is configured to be attachable to the shaft assembly in a mounting direction transverse to the shaft axis.

Embodiment 23—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 21 or 22, wherein the shaft assembly further includes a spine member, and wherein the proximal articulation joint includes a first channel mounting assembly pivotally coupled to the a spine member for selective articulation relative to the spine member about a first articulation axis, and wherein the distal articulation joint includes a second channel mount member pivotally coupled to the first channel mount An assembly for selectively pivotal travel relative to the first channel mounting assembly about a second axis of articulation.

Embodiment 24—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 21, 22, or 23, further comprising a first articulation system and a second articulation system, the first articulation system operably interfacing with the first channel mounting assembly for use The second articulation system operably interfaces with the second channel mounting member for selectively applying the first articulation motion thereto for selectively applying the second articulation motion thereto.

Embodiment 25—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 24, wherein the first articulation system includes a first axially movable articulation actuator operably coupled to the first channel mounting assembly, and wherein the The second articulation system includes a second annular articulation member that operably interfaces with the second channel mounting member and is configured to operate as a first articulation member and means for rotating the second articulation member. A second articulation motion is applied to the bi-annular articulation member as it rotates.

Embodiment 26—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 25, wherein the means for rotating includes a second axially movable articulation actuator operatively interfacing with the second annular articulation member.

Embodiment 27—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, or 26, wherein the portion of the channel is configured to be slidably received within a corresponding slot in the second channel mounting member.

Embodiment 28—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, or 27, wherein the portion of the channel is configured to be slidably inserted into the second into corresponding slots in the channel mounting members.

Embodiment 29—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, or 28, further comprising means for releasably retaining the portion of the channel in the corresponding slot.

Embodiment 30—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 29, wherein the means for releasably retaining includes a locking member selectively axially movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in the locked position In the unlocked position, the part of the channel is held in the corresponding slot, and in the unlocked position, the part of the channel can be removed from the corresponding slot in a removal direction opposite to the installation direction.

Embodiment 31—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 30, wherein the locking member is axially movable in a locking direction transverse to the installation direction and the removal direction.

Embodiment 32 - A surgical instrument comprising: a shaft assembly, wherein the shaft assembly includes a spine member defining a shaft axis; a first channel mounting assembly movably coupled to the spine member for relative to the spine member in a first articulation plane a spine member selectively articulates; and a second channel mounting member movably coupled to the first channel mounting assembly for mounting the assembly relative to the first channel in a second articulation plane perpendicular to the first articulation plane Perform selective joint movements. The surgical instrument also includes a flexible rotational drive shaft and an anvil pivotally coupled to the second channel mounting member. The surgical instrument also includes a channel configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge therein, wherein the channel is configured to be removably detachable from the second channel mounting member to be spaced from the anvil. The surgical instrument also includes a firing member movably supported in the channel and configured to operably interface with the flexible rotational drive shaft when the channel is operably coupled to the second channel mounting member, the firing member capable of Operably moveable between a first proximal position in which the firing member applies an opening action to the anvil and a closed position in which the firing member applies a closing action to the anvil.

Embodiment 33—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 32, wherein the firing member includes a tissue cutting portion and is configured to be supported from the channel when the firing member is driven between the first proximal position and the termination position within the channel. A device for ejecting surgical staples from a surgical staple cartridge in .

Embodiment 34—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 32 or 33, wherein the channel is configured to be attachable to the second channel mounting member in a mounting direction transverse to the shaft axis.

Embodiment 35—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 32, 33, or 34, wherein the shaft assembly further comprises a locking member movably supported on the spine member and selectably thereon in a locked position and unlocked Axial movement between positions in which the channel is locked to the second channel mounting member and in an unlocked position where the channel can be disengaged from the second channel mounting member.

Embodiment 36 - A surgical instrument comprising a shaft assembly, wherein the shaft assembly includes a spine assembly and an axially movable firing rod. The surgical instrument also includes a surgical end effector including a channel configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge therein, wherein the channel is configured to be removable through the connector assembly grounded to the spine assembly. The surgical instrument also includes a firing member supported for axial advancement within a surgical staple cartridge supported within the channel. The firing member includes a proximally protruding coupler sized to be removably inserted into a corresponding retention cavity formed in the distal end of the axially movable firing rod. The corresponding retention lumen is sized relative to the proximally protruding coupler to snap-receive the proximally protruding coupler therein when the channel is removably coupled to the spine assembly.

Embodiment 37—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 36, wherein the connector assembly includes a channel retainer operably coupled to the spine assembly, and a distal end including a pair of inwardly extending diametrically opposed attachment pins A side channel coupler, the attachment pin being configured to be axially insertable into a corresponding coupling slot in the channel retainer transverse to the shaft axis.

Embodiment 38—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 36 or 37, wherein the spine assembly includes a flexible articulation segment movably coupled to the channel retainer.

Embodiment 39—The surgical instrument of Embodiment 38, wherein the channel retainer is movably coupled to the flexible articulation segment by at least one axially movable articulation rod, the at least one axially movable joint The motion bar is movably supported by the flexible articulation segment.

Embodiment 40—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 36, 37, 38, or 39, wherein the axially moving firing rod includes a plurality of laminates.

Embodiment 41 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw, and a firing member configured to translate during a firing stroke, wherein the firing member Include notches. The surgical end effector also includes a latching spring that includes a hook, wherein the recess is aligned to receive the hook during the firing stroke, unless an unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw and wherein the unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw. The cartridge's slider assembly is positioned to deflect the hook out of alignment with the notch.

Embodiment 42—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 41, wherein the latching spring comprises a leaf spring. The leaf spring includes a proximal portion secured to the first jaw and a distal portion including a hook.

Embodiment 43—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 41 or 42, wherein the firing member includes a cutting edge, a middle portion supporting the cutting edge, and a lug projecting laterally from the middle portion, wherein the notch is defined at in the lugs.

Embodiment 44—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 41, 42, or 43, wherein the firing member further comprises a first flange and a second flange, the first flange configured to be cammed The first jaw, the second flange is configured to engage the second jaw via the cam.

Embodiment 45—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 41, 42, 43, or 44, wherein the latching spring is configured to prevent distal translation of the firing member past the hook unless the unfired staple cartridge is positioned in the in the first jaw.

Embodiment 46—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 41, 42, 43, 44, or 45, wherein the first jaw includes a cartridge support surface, wherein the recess is defined in the cartridge support surface, and wherein when not The hook is at least partially deflected into the recess when the fired cartridge is positioned in the first jaw.

Embodiment 47—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, or 46, wherein the latching spring includes a spring arm supporting the hook, and wherein the spring arm is laterally offset from the firing member .

Embodiment 48 - The surgical end effector of Embodiments 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, or 47, wherein the latching spring includes a second hook, and wherein the firing member includes a second notch, the first The two notches are aligned to receive the second hook during the firing stroke unless an unfired cartridge is positioned in the first jaw.

Embodiment 49 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw, and a firing member configured to translate during a firing stroke. The firing member includes a laterally projecting lug and a lock defined in the laterally projecting lug. The surgical end effector also includes a latching spring including a laterally projecting tab, wherein the lock is positioned to receive the laterally projecting tab during the firing stroke unless the unfired cartridge is positioned in the first in the jaws.

Embodiment 50—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 49, further comprising an unfired staple cartridge including a slider assembly configured to translate distally during the firing stroke.

Embodiment 51 - The surgical end effector of Embodiment 50, wherein the lock is configured to translate along the locking path during the firing stroke, and wherein the slider assembly in the unfired staple cartridge is configured to enable the side Deflect toward the protruding tab out of the locking path.

Embodiment 52—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 49, 50, or 51, wherein the first jaw includes a cartridge support surface, wherein the recess is defined in the cartridge support surface, and wherein the unfired staple cartridge When positioned in the first jaw, the laterally projecting tabs are deflected into the recesses.

Embodiment 53—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 49, 50, 51, or 52, wherein the latching spring comprises a leaf spring. The leaf spring includes a first portion secured to the first jaw, a second portion supporting a laterally projecting tab, and a spring arm extending intermediate the first portion and the second portion, wherein the spring arm is laterally biased from the firing member shift.

Embodiment 54—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 49, 50, 51, 52, or 53, wherein the firing member further comprises a support that includes a cutting edge. The firing member also includes a first flange extending from the support and a second flange extending from the support, wherein the first flange is configured to cam engage the first jaw, wherein the second flange is cammed The second jaw is configured to engage the second jaw via the cam.

Embodiment 55—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, or 54, wherein the firing member further comprises a second laterally projecting lug and is defined at the second laterally projecting the second lock in the lug, wherein the latching spring further includes a second laterally projecting tab, and wherein the second lock is positioned to receive the second laterally projecting tab during the firing stroke, unless an unfired peg The cartridge is positioned in the first jaw.

Embodiment 56 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw, and a latch. The latching device includes a lock configured to translate along a locking path during a firing stroke; and a latching spring including an inwardly projecting tab, wherein the lock is positioned to receive the inwardly projecting tab during the firing stroke tab unless an unfired cartridge is positioned in the first jaw.

Embodiment 57—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 56, further comprising an unfired staple cartridge, wherein the unfired staple cartridge includes a slider assembly configured to translate distally during a firing stroke, wherein the lock is configured to translate along the locking path during the firing stroke, and wherein the slider assembly in the unfired staple cartridge is configured to deflect the inwardly projecting tab out of the locking path.

Embodiment 58—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 56 or 57, wherein the first jaw includes a cartridge support surface, wherein the recess is defined in the cartridge support surface, and wherein the unfired staple cartridge is positioned when When in the first jaw, the inwardly projecting tab is deflected into the recess.

Embodiment 59—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 56, 57, or 58, wherein the latching spring comprises a leaf spring. The leaf spring includes a first portion secured to the first jaw and a second portion supporting a laterally projecting tab. The leaf spring also includes a spring arm extending intermediate the first portion and the second portion, wherein the spring arm is laterally offset from the firing member.

Embodiment 60—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 56, 57, 58, or 59, further comprising a firing member, wherein the firing member includes a support including a cutting edge and a lock. The firing member also includes a first flange extending from the support and a second flange extending from the support, wherein the first flange is configured to cam engage the first jaw, wherein the second flange is cammed The second jaw is configured to engage the second jaw via the cam.

Embodiment 61 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw comprising a closed surface and an open surface, and a pivot joint, wherein the second jaw is configured to oppose at the pivot joint The first jaw is pivoted with the closed surface positioned distal of the pivot joint and with the open surface positioned proximal of the pivot joint. The surgical end effector also includes a firing member configured to move distally during the firing stroke. The firing member includes a first flange positioned to engage the first jaw and a second flange positioned to engage the second jaw, wherein the second flange is configured to engage the closure surface to engage the second jaw The mouth pivots toward the closed position, and wherein the second flange is configured to engage the open surface to pivot the second jaw toward the open position.

Embodiment 62—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 61, wherein the firing member is moveable distally from the home position to pivot the second jaw toward the closed position, and wherein the firing member is moveable from the home position The position is moved proximally to pivot the second jaw toward the open position.

Embodiment 63—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61 or 62, wherein the second jaw includes an intermediate surface between the closed surface and the open surface, and wherein the second jaw is in the home position when the firing member is in the home position. Two flanges are spaced from the intermediate surface.

Embodiment 64—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61, 62, or 63, wherein the firing member further comprises a knife intermediate the first flange and the second flange.

Embodiment 65—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61, 62, 63, or 64, wherein the first jaw is configured to receive a staple cartridge.

Embodiment 66—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61, 62, 63, 64, or 65, wherein the second jaw includes a staple-forming anvil.

Embodiment 67—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, or 66, wherein the first jaw includes a first passageway for a first flange, and wherein the first The two jaws include a second passage for the second flange.

Embodiment 68 - The surgical end effector of Embodiments 61, 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, or 67, further comprising a spring configured to force the firing member to The second jaw is biased toward the open position.

Example 69 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw comprising a closed surface and an open surface, and a pivot joint, wherein the second jaw is configured to oppose at the pivot joint Pivoting on the first jaw. The surgical end effector also includes a firing member configured to be movable distally from the home position during the firing stroke. The firing member includes a first flange positioned to engage the first jaw and a second flange positioned to engage the second jaw, wherein the second flange is configured to enable the firing member to be positioned distally from the home position engages the closed surface when moved laterally, and wherein the second flange is configured to engage the open surface when the firing member is moved proximally from the home position.

Embodiment 70—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 69, wherein the second flange is configured to engage the closing surface to pivot the second jaw toward the closed position, and wherein the second flange is configured to engage the open surface to pivot the second jaw toward the open position.

Embodiment 71 - The surgical end effector of embodiment 69 or 70, wherein the second jaw includes an intermediate surface between the closed surface and the open surface, and wherein the first Two flanges are spaced from the intermediate surface.

Embodiment 72—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 69, 70, or 71, wherein the firing member further comprises a knife intermediate the first flange and the second flange.

Embodiment 73—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 69, 70, 71, or 72, wherein the first jaw is configured to receive a staple cartridge.

Embodiment 74—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 69, 70, 71, 72, or 73, wherein the second jaw includes an anvil.

Embodiment 75—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, or 74, wherein the first jaw includes a first passageway for a first flange, and wherein the first The two jaws include a second passage for the second flange.

Embodiment 76 - The surgical end effector of Embodiments 69, 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, or 75, further comprising a spring configured to force the second jaw when the firing member is in the home position The mouth is offset away from the first jaw.

Example 77 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw comprising a first cam arrangement and a second cam arrangement, and a pivot joint, wherein the second jaw is configured to pivot The adapter is pivoted relative to the first jaw. The surgical end effector also includes a firing member configured to be movable distally from the home position during the firing stroke. The firing member includes a first flange positioned to engage the first jaw and a second flange positioned to engage the second jaw, wherein the second flange is configured to enable the firing member from the home position The first cam arrangement is engaged when moved distally, and wherein the second flange is configured to engage the second cam arrangement when the firing member is moved proximally from the home position.

Embodiment 78—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 77, wherein the first cam mechanism is configured to cam the second jaw toward the closed position, and wherein the second cam mechanism is configured to The second jaw can be cammed towards the open position.

Embodiment 79—The surgical end effector of embodiment 77 or 78, wherein the first cam means includes a distal closure ramp extending upwardly from the medial surface into the passageway in the second jaw, and wherein the first cam means The two-cam arrangement includes a proximal closing surface extending upwardly from the intermediate surface.

Embodiment 80—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 77, 78, or 79, wherein the home position includes a range of positions.

Embodiment 81 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw, and a latching device configured to prevent the second jaw from moving toward the first jaw. Rotational movement of a jaw unless an unfired cartridge is positioned in the first jaw, wherein the latching device includes a pivotable lock configured to pivot between a locked orientation and an unlocked orientation . The pivotable lock includes a first leg configured to engage the second jaw when the pivotable lock is in the locked orientation, and a second leg configured to engage the second jaw when the pivotable lock is in the locked orientation. The unfired staple cartridge engages the unfired staple cartridge when positioned in the first jaw.

Embodiment 82—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 81, further comprising a spring, the spring including a distal end, wherein the distal end is engaged with the pivotable lock, and wherein the spring is configured to enable Bias the pivotable lock toward the locked orientation.

Embodiment 83—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 82, wherein the spring comprises a leaf spring.

Embodiment 84—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 81, 82, or 83, wherein the pivotable lock includes a third leg, and wherein the distal end is positioned against the third leg .

Embodiment 85—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 81, 82, 83, or 84, wherein the latching notch is defined in the first jaw, and wherein when the pivotable lock is in the unlocked orientation, the second The legs are positioned at least partially in the latching recesses.

Embodiment 86—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 81, 82, 83, 84, or 85, wherein the first jaw includes an elongated channel, wherein the second jaw includes an anvil, the anvil An inner track is included that extends into the elongated channel, and wherein the end portion of the first leg abuts the inner track when the pivotable lock is in the locked orientation.

Embodiment 87—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, or 86, wherein the locking device includes a second pivotable lock.

Embodiment 88—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, or 87, further comprising an unfired staple cartridge, the unfired staple cartridge comprising a slider assembly, wherein the The slider assembly is configured to engage the second leg when the slider assembly is in the pre-fired position.

Embodiment 89 - An interchangeable surgical tool assembly comprising an end effector and a shaft configured to receive a staple cartridge. The shaft includes a firing assembly, wherein the firing assembly includes a distal portion, a proximal portion including a notch, and a spring intermediate the proximal portion and the distal portion. The shaft also includes a lockout lever movable between an unlocked orientation and a locked orientation, wherein the lockout lever extends into the recess when the lockout lever is in the locked orientation, and wherein displacement of the distal portion of the firing assembly is configured to displace the lockout The lever moves to the unlocked orientation.

Embodiment 90—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiment 89, further comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge includes a proximal end,

A longitudinal slot extending distally from the proximal end and a frangible door extending across the longitudinal slot at the proximal end. The frangible door is configured to proximally divert the distal portion of the firing assembly when the staple cartridge is installed in the end effector.

Embodiment 91 - The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 89 or 90, wherein the spring is configured to compress between the proximal portion and the distal portion when the staple cartridge is installed in the end effector .

Embodiment 92—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 89, 90, or 91, wherein the distal portion includes a proximally extending wedge configured to allow the distal portion to move proximally Move the locking lever to the unlocked orientation when shifting sideways.

Embodiment 93 - The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 90, 91 or 92, wherein the staple cartridge includes a cartridge body that includes a cutout, and wherein the frangible door includes pivotally coupled to the cartridge body and a second end that frictionally fits in the cutout.

Embodiment 94—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 90, 91, 92, or 93, wherein the firing assembly is configured to be capable of breaking the frangible door during a firing stroke.

Embodiment 95—The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, or 94, wherein the shaft further comprises a return spring configured to bias the latch lever toward the latched orientation set.

Embodiment 96 - The interchangeable surgical tool assembly of Embodiments 89, 90, 91, 92, 93, 94, or 95, wherein the distal portion of the firing assembly is advanced from the pre-fired proximal position to the A distal position, and retracted from the distal position to a post-fired proximal position after the firing stroke, and wherein the post-fired proximal position is distal to the pre-fired proximal position.

Embodiment 97 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw and a second jaw rotatably coupled to the first jaw, wherein the second jaw comprises a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration move between pins. The surgical end effector also includes a lockout device configured to prevent rotational movement of the second jaw toward the first jaw unless the staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw, wherein the lockout device includes a locking lever , the locking lever is configured to be able to translate within the first jaw from a distal position to a proximal position when the staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw, and wherein the locking lever is configured to be capable of being moved to the proximal position when the locking lever to move the pin to the unlocked configuration.

Embodiment 98 - The surgical end effector of Embodiment 97, further comprising a spring extending between the first jaw and the second jaw, wherein the spring is configured to urge the second jaw toward the first Jaw offset.

Embodiment 99 - The surgical end effector of Embodiment 98, wherein the first jaw includes a profiled slot, wherein the pin is configured to follow the profiled slot when the second jaw is rotated toward the first jaw moving, wherein the first jaw further includes a latching notch extending from the profiled slot, and wherein the spring biases the pin into the latching notch.

Embodiment 100—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 97, 98, or 99, wherein the pin includes a semicircular perimeter.

Embodiment 101 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing member configured to translate relative to the first and second jaws during a firing stroke. The firing member includes a support portion having a slot, a first flange extending from the support portion, wherein the first flange is configured to engage the first jaw during a firing stroke. The firing member also includes a second flange positioned in the slot, wherein the second flange is configured to engage the second jaw during the firing stroke, and wherein the second flange is configured to Moves away from the first flange in the slot when applied to the second flange.

Embodiment 102—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 101, wherein the slot comprises a wedge-shaped slot.

Embodiment 103—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 101 or 102, wherein the slot includes a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the second flange frictionally fits over the distal end of the slot Department.

Embodiment 104—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 103, wherein the threshold force is configured to overcome the frictional force securing the second flange in the distal end.

Embodiment 105—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 101, 102, 103, or 104, wherein the slot includes a contoured upper edge, and wherein the second flange is configured to apply a threshold force to the second protrusion Slide along the upper edge of the molding.

Embodiment 106—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 101, 102, 103, 104, or 105, wherein the second flange includes a groove aligned with the slot.

Embodiment 107—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, or 106, wherein the firing member further comprises a guide secured to the second flange.

Embodiment 108—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, or 107, wherein the second jaw is rotatably coupled to the first jaw.

Embodiment 109 - A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing member configured to translate relative to the first jaw and the second jaw during a firing stroke. the firing member includes a fixed flange configured to engage the first jaw during a firing stroke; a floating flange configured to engage the second jaw during the firing stroke; a spring, The spring is configured to bias the floating flange toward the first position.

Embodiment 110—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 109, wherein the slot is defined in the firing member, and wherein the floating flange is configured to slide along the slot when a threshold force is applied to the floating flange.

Embodiment 111—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 110, wherein the slot includes a proximal end, a distal end, wherein the distal end is closer to the securing flange than the proximal end, and

The upper edge extending from the proximal end to the distal end.

Embodiment 112—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 111, wherein the first location is adjacent the distal end.

Embodiment 113—The surgical end effector of Embodiment 111 or 112, wherein the spring comprises a coil spring extending between the floating flange and the proximal end of the slot.

Embodiment 114—The surgical end effector of Embodiments 110, 111, 112, or 113, wherein the floating flange includes a groove aligned with the slot.

Embodiment 115—The surgical instrument of Embodiments 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, or 114, wherein the firing member further comprises a guide.

Embodiment 116—A surgical end effector comprising a first jaw, a second jaw, and a firing member configured to translate relative to the first jaw and the second jaw during a firing stroke. The firing member includes a fixed flange configured to engage the first jaw during the firing stroke and a compliant portion having a floating flange, wherein the floating flange is configured to engage the second jaw during the firing stroke.

Embodiment 117 - The surgical end effector of Embodiment 116, wherein the compliant portion is comprised of nitinol.

Embodiment 118 - The surgical end effector of Embodiments 116 or 117, wherein an incision is defined in the firing member, and wherein the compliant portion is embedded in the incision.

Embodiment 119 - The surgical end effector of Embodiment 118, wherein the incision includes a lower portion, and wherein the compliant portion includes a foot positioned in the lower portion.

Embodiment 120 - The surgical end effector of Embodiments 116, 117, 118, or 119, wherein the floating flange is configured to move away from the fixed flange when a threshold force is applied to the floating flange.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are actuated by electric motors; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated in any suitable manner. In various instances, for example, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated by manually operated triggers. In some instances, the motors disclosed herein may include one or more parts of a robotic control system. Furthermore, any of the end effectors and/or tool assemblies disclosed herein may be used with robotic surgical instrument systems. For example, US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 (now US Patent 9,072,535) entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLEDEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" discloses several examples of robotic surgical instrument systems in greater detail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in conjunction with deployment and deformation of the staples; however, the embodiments described herein are not so limited. For example, various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fasteners other than nails, such as clips or tacks. In addition, various embodiments are contemplated that utilize any suitable device for sealing tissue. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Additionally, for example, end effectors according to certain embodiments may apply vibrational energy to seal tissue.

The entire disclosures of the following patents are hereby incorporated by reference:

- US Patent 5,403,312 entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE", issued April 4, 1995;

- US Patent 7,000,818 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVINGSEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" issued on February 21, 2006;

- US Patent 7,422,139 entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING ANDFASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK" issued on September 9, 2008;

- US Patent 7,464,849 entitled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENTWITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS" issued on December 16, 2008;

- US Patent 7,670,334 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING ANARTICULATING END EFFECTOR" issued on March 2, 2010;

- US Patent 7,753,245 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" issued on July 13, 2010;

- US Patent 8,393,514 entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLEFASTENER CARTRIDGE" issued March 12, 2013;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES"; now US Patent 7,845,537;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573, filed February 14, 2008, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,873 (now US Patent No. 7,980,443), filed February 15, 2008, entitled "END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING ANDSTAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,782 entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 8,210,411;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/249,117 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM", now US Patent 8,608,045;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/647,100, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTINGINSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY," filed December 24, 2009; now US Patent 8,220,688;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/893,461, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE", filed September 29, 2012, now US Patent 8,733,613;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/036,647, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT", filed February 28, 2011, now US Patent 8,561,870;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLEDEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,072,535;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/524,049, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTCOMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE," filed June 15, 2012; now US Patent 9,101,358;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,025, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM", filed March 13, 2013, now US Patent 9,345,481;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM", filed March 13, 2013, now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552;

- US Patent Application Publication 2007/0175955, filed January 31, 2006, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM"; and

- US Patent Application Publication 2010/0264194, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH ANARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR", filed April 22, 2010, now US Patent 8,308,040.

Although various apparatuses have been described herein in connection with certain embodiments, many modifications and variations of these embodiments can be implemented. The particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, without limitation, a particular feature, structure or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with the features, structures or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. Additionally, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may also be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced with a single component, to perform a given function or functions. The foregoing detailed description and the following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of steps including, but not limited to, disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of specific components of the device, and subsequent reassembly of the device. Specifically, the repair facility and/or surgical team may disassemble the device, and after cleaning and/or replacing certain components of the device, the device may be reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the trimming device can be disassembled, cleaned/replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such techniques and the resulting prosthetic devices are within the scope of this application.

The devices disclosed herein can be processed prior to surgery. First, new or used instruments are available and cleaned as needed. The instruments can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device can then be exposed to a radiation field that penetrates the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, and/or high-energy electrons. Radiation kills bacteria on instruments and in containers. The sterilized instruments can then be stored in sterile containers. A sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until the container is opened in a medical facility. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, plasma peroxide, and/or steam.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, this invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any adaptations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using the general principles of the invention.

Any patent, publication or other disclosure material incorporated herein by reference, in whole or in part, is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements or other disclosure material described herein This article. Accordingly, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure expressly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, purportedly incorporated herein by reference, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosed material set forth herein, will not arise only between the incorporated material and the existing disclosed material merged to the extent of conflict.

Claims (20)

1. a kind of interchangeable surgical tool component, comprising:

End effector, the end effector include sliding part and cutting edge；

Trigger shaft, the trigger shaft are operationally configured to fire the sliding part and the cutting edge, wherein described Trigger shaft includes distal side bonding part, and wherein the trigger shaft can be moved to the first distal side position from the first proximal position It sets, is moved to the second distal position from the second proximal position；And

Push-rod assembly, the push-rod assembly include:

Plate, the plate include nearside bonding part, wherein the nearside bonding part is selectively coupled to the distal side engagement Part；And

Spring, the spring are configured to be moved to second nearside from first distal position when the trigger shaft The nearside bonding part is laterally offset from into when position and is engaged with the distal side bonding part.

2. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 1, further includes firing member, wherein the trigger shaft is by structure Causing can be when the trigger shaft be moved to first distal position from first proximal position towards described in the promotion of distal side Firing member.

3. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 2, wherein the firing member includes:

First flange, first flange are configured to engage the first jaw of the end effector；

Second flange, second flange are configured to engage the second jaw of the end effector；And

Support section, the support section extend between first flange and second flange, and wherein recess is limited to In the support section, and wherein the plate is configured to be moved to when the trigger shaft from second proximal position The recess is slid through towards distal side when second distal position.

4. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 3, wherein the plate includes passing through spring-loaded button Part, it is described be configured to engage when the plate is proximally bounced back by the trigger shaft by spring-loaded fastener described in Support section.

5. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 1, wherein first proximal position is located at described second The distal side of proximal position.

6. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 1, wherein first distal position is located at described second The nearside of distal position.

7. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 1, wherein the cutting edge and one bodily form of sliding part At.

8. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 1, wherein the nearside bonding part includes t shape slit, And wherein the distal side bonding part includes key.

9. a kind of interchangeable surgical tool component, comprising:

End effector, the end effector include:

First jaw；

Second jaw, second jaw are rotationally coupled to first jaw；And

Sliding part, the sliding part are configured to translate relative to first jaw and second jaw；

Firing member, the firing member include:

First flange, first flange are configured to engage first jaw；And

Second flange, second flange are configured to engage second jaw；

Push plate；And

Trigger shaft, the trigger shaft are selectively coupled to the push plate, wear wherein the trigger shaft is configured to movement Multiple continuous shooting strokes are crossed, and wherein the multiple continuous shooting stroke includes:

First distal side firing stroke, in the firing stroke of first distal side, the trigger shaft is configured to push away towards distal side Move the firing member；

First nearside firing stroke, in the first nearside firing stroke, the trigger shaft is configured to proximally return It shortens into and is engaged with the push plate；

Second distal side firing stroke, in the firing stroke of second distal side, the trigger shaft is configured to make described push away Plate is advanced through the firing member towards distal side；And

Second nearside firing stroke, in the second nearside firing stroke, the trigger shaft is configured to make described push away Plate and the firing member proximally bounce back.

10. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 9, wherein the firing member is configured to The sliding part is pushed towards distal side during the firing stroke of first distal side.

11. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 10, wherein the push plate is configured to described The sliding part is pushed towards distal side during second distal side firing stroke.

12. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 11, wherein the push plate includes leaf spring, the leaf spring Including end, and wherein, the end is configured to work as the push plate during the second nearside firing stroke towards close Side engages the firing member when bouncing back.

13. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 9, wherein the sliding part includes cutting edge.

14. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 13 further includes being removably positioned in first pincers Nail bin in mouthful, wherein first jaw includes distal chamber, the distal chamber is configured to hit in second distal side Hair stroke receives the cutting edge when completing.

15. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 9, further includes spring, the spring is configured to The push plate is laterally offset from into during the first nearside firing stroke and is engaged with the trigger shaft.

16. a kind of interchangeable surgical tool component, comprising:

End effector, the end effector include:

First jaw, first jaw includes proximal end；And

Second jaw, second jaw are rotationally coupled to first jaw；

Distal side installation section, the distal side installation section are fixedly attached to the proximal end；

Nearside installation section, the nearside installation section are rotatably attached to the distal side installation section；

Swivel bearing, the swivel bearing is among the nearside installation section and the distal side installation section；

Rotary shaft, the rotary shaft extends through the nearside installation section from the distal side installation section, wherein the rotation The rotation of axis is configured to rotate the distal side installation section；And

Flexible spine, the flexible spine extends from the nearside installation section, wherein the flexible spine includes multiple laterally symmetric Vertebra.

17. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 16 further includes being configured to and the rotary shaft The firing member translated together, wherein the firing member includes:

First flange, first flange are configured to engage the opening and closing chamber in first jaw through cam；And

Second flange, second flange are configured to engage second jaw through cam.

18. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 16, wherein the rotary shaft includes multiple perforation, is used It is bent in the flexible spine in the permission rotary shaft.

19. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 16, wherein the flexible spine include with it is described lateral right The vertebrae adjacent of title interfix multiple gaps.

20. interchangeable surgical tool component according to claim 16, wherein the flexible spine includes:

Joint motions head, the joint motions head are installed to the nearside installation section, wherein the joint motions head Including a pair of of attachment tabs；And

A pair of of flexible attachment band, the pair of flexible attachment band extend to the corresponding attachment tabs towards distal side.