SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH SHAFT DETACHMENT

Abstract

A surgical instrument comprises a shaft assembly, a handle assembly, and a locking system configured to operationally couple the shaft and handle assemblies. The locking system includes a shaft and handle locking elements respectively connected to the shaft and handle assemblies to prevent operational disengagement of the shaft and handle assemblies. The locking element has a cam surface and a locking face. The locking element is configured to move selectively from a locked position to a released position such that the movement of the locking element causes the shaft and handle locking elements to disengage and the shaft and handle assemblies to uncouple.The locking element is further configured to selectively move from the released position to a removal position such that an additional movement of the locking element brings the cam surface of the locking element into contact with the cam base.