Reloading assembly with toolholder lock

Abstract

Surgical stapling devices include a reload assembly that includes a lock member to hold a cartridge holder of the reload assembly in a retracted position after the stapling device is fired. The lock member can be supported on an inner housing portion of a housing shell or on a staple pusher assembly of the reload assembly.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 878,789, filed July 26, 2019, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to a circular suturing device, and more specifically, to a reloading assembly for a circular suturing device having a structure for holding the blade holder of the reloading assembly in a retracted position after the suturing device is fired. Background Technology

[0004] A typical circular suture device comprises an elongated body and a housing or reloading assembly supported on a distal portion of the elongated body. The reloading assembly includes the housing, a staple cartridge with multiple staples supported on the housing, a pusher assembly, a blade defining a cylindrical cavity, and a blade holder supporting the blade. The pusher assembly includes a ring pusher and a staple pushing member, which engages with the ring pusher and is movable to move the staple pushing member to eject staples from the staple cartridge. The blade holder is movable to advance the blade through the staple cartridge to core or cut tissue.

[0005] After the suturing device has been operated to suture and cut the tissue, the scalpel holder and scalpel retract to withdraw the scalpel into the housing. This serves two purposes. The first purpose is to move the scalpel to a position that allows for the removal of a tissue ring from the cavity defined by the scalpel. The second purpose is to position the scalpel in a recessed position within the housing to prevent injury to the clinician during manipulation and placement of the reloading assembly.

[0006] In some cases, compressing a tissue ring within the blade-defined cavity to a degree makes it difficult to remove the tissue ring from the cavity. There has been a need in the art for a reloading assembly with an improved structure for holding the blade / blade holder in the retracted position. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a surgical suturing device including an adapter assembly and a reloading assembly. The adapter assembly has a proximal end portion and a distal end portion. The reloading assembly is supported on the distal end portion of the adapter assembly and includes a housing, a staple pusher, a staple actuator, a blade holder, and a blade supported on the blade holder. The housing includes an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion that together define an annular cavity. A staple cartridge supports a plurality of staples. The staple pusher is supported within the annular cavity and is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject staples from the staple cartridge. The staple actuator is supported within the annular cavity and has a stop surface. The staple actuator engages with the staple pusher and is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from its retracted position to its advanced position. The staple actuator and the staple pusher define a through-hole. The blade holder is supported within the through-hole and is movable between the retracted position and the advanced position. The tool holder supports an elastic locking member that aligns with a stop surface on the pin actuator when the pin actuator is in its forward position and the tool holder is in its retracted position, to prevent the tool holder from advancing again.

[0008] In one embodiment, the suturing device includes a handle assembly, wherein the proximal end portion of the adapter assembly is supported on the handle assembly.

[0009] In some embodiments, the locking member can be moved from an undeformed state in which the locking member extends outward and distally from the tool holder to a deformed state in which the locking member is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the tool holder.

[0010] In some embodiments, when the staple actuator and the cutter holder are in their retracted position, the locking member is positioned distal to the stop surface of the staple actuator, wherein when the staple actuator is in its forward position and the cutter holder moves from its forward position to its retracted position, the locking member can move from an undeformed state to a deformed state to allow the locking member to be pressed proximally by the staple actuator.

[0011] In one embodiment, the tool holder includes a hook member aligned with a stop surface, such that movement of the tool holder from its retracted position to its forward position moves the sewing staple actuator from its retracted position to its forward position.

[0012] In some embodiments, the locking member is cantilevered and supported on the tool holder.

[0013] In some embodiments, the locking member is formed of a flat leaf spring.

[0014] In one embodiment, the locking member is formed of wire having a cylindrical cross-section.

[0015] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a surgical suturing apparatus including an adapter assembly and a reloading assembly. The adapter assembly includes a proximal end portion, a distal end portion, and a blade driver. The blade driver is movable between a retracted position and an advanced position. The reloading assembly is supported on the distal end portion of the adapter assembly and includes a housing, a staple cartridge, a staple pusher, a staple actuator, a blade holder supporting the blade, and a locking member. The housing includes an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion defining an annular cavity. The staple cartridge is supported on the housing and includes a plurality of staples. The staple pusher is supported within the annular cavity and is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject staples from the staple cartridge. The staple actuator is supported within the annular cavity at a position engaging the staple pusher and defining a through-hole. The staple actuator is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from its retracted position to its advanced position. The blade holder is supported within the through-hole and includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The tool holder is movable between a retracted position and a forward position in response to movement of the tool driver from its retracted position to its forward position. A locking member is supported on the inner housing portion and includes a locking latch that is movable from an undeformed state to a deformed state in response to movement of the tool driver from its retracted position toward its forward position. In the undeformed state, the locking latch engages with the tool holder to prevent the tool holder from advancing within the housing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the proximal portion of the tool holder includes a resilient longitudinal body portion defining an annular groove, and the tool driver has a distal end portion including an annular rib, wherein the annular rib is received within the annular groove to engage the tool driver with the tool holder as the tool driver moves from its retracted position toward its forward position.

[0017] In some embodiments, the locking latch supports the first tab, and the tool holder defines a recess, wherein when the locking latch is in its undeformed state, the first tab is received within the recess to prevent the tool holder from advancing within the housing.

[0018] In some embodiments, the locking latch includes a second tab having an angled, proximal surface, and the knife actuator is movable from its retracted position toward its forward position to engage the second tab to move the locking latch from an undeformed state to a deformed state.

[0019] In one embodiment, the proximal end portion of each of the longitudinal body portions includes a tapered surface positioned proximal to the annular groove, wherein when the tool driver and the tool holder are in their retracted position, the tapered surface is aligned with and positioned distal to the distal end portion of the tool driver.

[0020] In some embodiments, the bushing is supported on the inner housing portion of the outer housing, and the locking member is supported on the bushing.

[0021] In some embodiments, the bushing includes a protrusion, and the locking member includes an annular ring defining a slit, wherein the annular ring is received around the bushing, and the protrusion is received within the slit to prevent the locking member from rotating relative to the bushing.

[0022] In one embodiment, the locking member includes an annular ring supported on the bushing, and the locking latch of the locking member includes a transverse portion and a longitudinal portion extending proximally from the transverse portion in a cantilever manner.

[0023] In some embodiments, the lateral portion of the locking latch extends through a slot defined by the longitudinal body portion of the tool holder, and the proximal longitudinal portion of the locking latch supports a latching member that, when the locking latch is in an undeformed state, is positioned within an annular groove in one of the longitudinal body portions of the tool holder to impede distal movement of the tool holder within the housing.

[0024] In some embodiments, the locking member includes a cam surface positioned adjacent to the latching member, the cam surface being engaged by a distal end portion of the knife driver when the knife driver moves from its retracted position toward its forward position to move the locking member from an undeformed state to a deformed state.

[0025] Another aspect of this disclosure relates to a reloading assembly comprising a housing, a staple cartridge, a staple pusher, a staple actuator, a scalpel holder, and a locking member. The housing includes an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion defining an annular cavity. The staple cartridge is supported on the housing and includes a plurality of staples. The staple pusher is supported within the annular cavity and is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject staples from the staple cartridge. The staple actuator is supported within the annular cavity at a position engaging the staple pusher and defining a through-hole. The staple actuator is movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from its retracted position to its advanced position. The scalpel holder is supported within the through-hole and includes a distal portion and a proximal portion. The scalpel holder supports a scalpel and is movable between the retracted and advanced positions. The locking member is supported on the inner housing portion and includes a locking latch that is movable from an undeformed state to a deformed state in response to firing of the surgical suture device, wherein in the undeformed state, the locking latch engages with the scalpel holder to prevent the scalpel holder from advancing within the housing.

[0026] Other features of this disclosure will be understood from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Various embodiments of the disclosed reloading assembly for a surgical suture device are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0028] Figure 1A side perspective view of a surgical suturing device including an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed reloading component, wherein the suturing device is in the clamping position;

[0029] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Side perspective view of the reloading assembly of the suture device shown;

[0030] Figure 3 for Figure 2 The exploded side perspective view of the reloaded component shown;

[0031] Figure 4 for Figure 3 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0032] Figure 5 From Figure 3 Side perspective view of the distal end of the tool holder of the reloading assembly shown;

[0033] Figure 6 for Figure 5 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0034] Figure 7 From Figure 3 Side perspective view of the proximal end of the stitch actuator of the reloading assembly shown;

[0035] Figure 8 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken from section line 8-8 shows the reloaded assembly in the pre-firing state;

[0036] Figure 9 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by section line 8-8 shows the reloaded assembly in the firing state and the tool holder in the forward position;

[0037] Figure 10 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by section line 8-8 shows the reloaded assembly in the firing state and the tool holder moving toward its retracted position;

[0038] Figure 11 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view taken by section line 8-8 shows the reloaded assembly in the firing state and the tool holder in its retracted and locked position;

[0039] Figure 12 From Figure 2 Side perspective view of the distal end of an alternative embodiment of the reloading assembly tool holder shown;

[0040] Figure 13 for Figure 12The side perspective view of the proximal portion of the tool holder shown, in which the locking member has been removed from the main body of the tool holder;

[0041] Figure 14 From Figure 1 Exploded side perspective view of the distal end of another exemplary embodiment of the reloading assembly of the suture device shown;

[0042] Figure 15 From Figure 14 Side perspective view of the proximal end of the locking member of the reloading assembly shown;

[0043] Figure 16 From Figure 14 Side perspective view of the distal end of the locking member of the reloading assembly shown;

[0044] Figure 17 for Figure 14 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0045] Figure 18 From Figure 15 The side perspective view shown is of the distal end of the locking member, which is fixed to... Figure 14 The bushing of the housing of the reloaded component shown;

[0046] Figure 19 From Figure 15 The side perspective view shown is of the proximal end of the locking member, which is fixed to... Figure 14 The bushing of the housing of the reloaded component shown;

[0047] Figure 20 for Figure 19 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0048] Figure 21 for Figure 14 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0049] Figure 22 for Figure 14 An enlarged view of the proximal portion of the tool holder of the reloading assembly shown;

[0050] Figure 23 for Figure 14 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0051] Figure 24 for Figure 14 The side perspective view of the reloading assembly shown includes a housing shown in dashed lines, and a stud actuator and a tool holder in the retracted position.

[0052] Figure 25for Figure 23 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0053] Figure 26 For along Figure 4 The cross-sectional view taken from section line 26-26 shows the reloaded assembly in the pre-firing state;

[0054] Figure 27 for Figure 26 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0055] Figure 28 To pass Figure 14 The bushing and tool holder of the reloading assembly shown, as well as the reloading process... Figure 1 The suture device shown is a side cross-sectional view of the scalpel driver, with the scalpel driver and scalpel in the retracted position;

[0056] Figure 29 for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver and tool holder in the retracted position and the locking member in the latched position;

[0057] Figure 30 for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver partially advancing to engage with the tool holder and locking member, with the locking member biased toward the unlocked position;

[0058] Figure 31 for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver advancing to engage with the tool holder and the locking member being biased to the unlocked position;

[0059] Figure 32 for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows that when the tool holder driver and the tool holder move together toward the forward position, the tool holder driver is engaged with the tool holder and the locking member is biased to the unlocked position;

[0060] Figure 33 for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows that when the tweezers driver and the tweezers move together toward the forward position to cut tissue, the tweezers driver is engaged with the tweezers and the locking member remains in the unlocked position.

[0061] Figure 33A for Figure 28 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows that after firing, the tool holder driver returns to its retracted position to disconnect from the tool holder and the locking member returns to the latch position;

[0062] Figure 34 for Figure 1 A side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the reloading component of the suture device shown;

[0063] Figure 35 For along Figure 34 The cross-sectional view taken from section line 35-35 shows the reloaded assembly in the pre-firing state;

[0064] Figure 36 for Figure 34 Side perspective view of the locking component of the reloading assembly shown;

[0065] Figure 37 for Figure 34 A magnified view of the detailed indicator area shown;

[0066] Figure 38 for Figure 35 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver and tool holder in the retracted position and the locking member in the latched position;

[0067] Figure 39 for Figure 35 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver advancing to engage with the tool holder and locking member when the locking member is pushed from the latch position;

[0068] Figure 40 for Figure 35 The enlarged view of the detailed area shown indicates that the tool holder driver is coupled to the tool holder and the locking member is held in its unlocked position.

[0069] Figure 41 for Figure 35 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows the tool holder driver engaged with the tool holder and the locking member remaining in its unlocked state as the tool holder driver and tool holder move toward their forward position to cut tissue; and

[0070] Figure 42 for Figure 35 The enlarged view of the detailed indicator area shows that after the firing of the sewing device, the tamper driver returns to its retracted position, wherein the tamper driver is disconnected from the tamper and the locking member is in its latched state. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The reloading assembly for the disclosed surgical suture device will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals denote the same or corresponding elements in each of the several views. However, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of this disclosure and may be embodied in various forms. Well-known functions or constructions have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring this disclosure with unnecessary detail. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to adopt this disclosure differently with virtually any suitable detailed construction. Furthermore, directional terms such as “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom,” “distal,” “proximal,” and similar terms are used to aid in understanding this specification and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0072] In this specification, the term "proximal" is generally used to refer to the portion of the device closer to the clinician, while the term "distal" is generally used to refer to the portion of the device further away from the clinician. Additionally, the term "clinician" is generally used to refer to medical personnel, including doctors, nurses, and support staff.

[0073] Figure 1 and 2 The description includes a circular suture device 10, typically shown as a reloading assembly 100, of an exemplary embodiment of the disclosed reloading assembly. The suture device 10 includes a handle assembly 12, an elongated body or adapter assembly 14, a reloading assembly 100, and an anvil assembly 18 supported for movement relative to the reloading assembly 100 between spaced-out and closed positions as known in the art. In an embodiment, the reloading assembly 100 includes a proximal portion 102 releasably coupled to a distal portion 14a of the elongated body 14. In some embodiments, the handle assembly 12 includes a fixed handle 22 supporting an actuation button 24 for controlling various functions of the suture device 10, including approaching the reloading assembly 100 and the anvil assembly 18, firing staples from the reloading assembly 100, and cutting or core-taking tissue.

[0074] The suturing device 10 is described as an electric suturing device, which includes an electric handle assembly 12 capable of supporting one or more batteries (not shown). An elongated body 14 takes the form of an adapter assembly that transmits power from the handle assembly 12 to a reloading assembly 100 and anvil assembly 18, respectively. Examples of electric suturing devices can be found in U.S. Patent Nos. 9,055,943, 9,023,014, and U.S. Publications 2018 / 0125495 and 2017 / 0340351. Alternatively, the reloading assembly is contemplated to be incorporated into a manual suturing device, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,303,106 ('106 patent), or a suturing device configured for use with a robotic system and excluding a handle assembly, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,962,159.

[0075] Figure 2 and 3 The reloading assembly 100 includes a housing 110, a staple actuator 112, a staple pushing member 112a, a blade holder 114, an annular blade 116 supported on the blade holder 114, a staple cartridge 118, and a plurality of staples 120 supported within the staple cartridge 118. The staple cartridge 118 is annular and defines an annular row of staple recesses 124. Each of the staple recesses 124 supports one of the plurality of staples 120. The staple actuator 112 and the staple pushing member 112a together define a longitudinal through-hole 132. Figure 8 The staple actuator 112 has a distal portion that abuts against a proximal portion of the staple pusher member 112a, such that distal movement of the staple actuator 112 within the housing 110 causes distal movement of the staple pusher member 112a within the housing 110. The staple pusher member 112a of the reloading assembly 100 has a plurality of fingers 134. Each of the plurality of fingers 134 is received within a corresponding staple recess 124 of the staple cartridge 118 and is movable through the corresponding staple recess 124 to eject a staple 120 from the staple recess 124 when the staple pusher member 112a moves from a retracted position to an advanced position within the housing 110.

[0076] The outer housing 110 includes an outer housing portion 140 and an inner housing portion 142, which are spaced apart from each other to define an annular cavity 144 between the outer housing portion 140 and the inner housing portion 142. Figure 3 The staple actuator 112 and the staple pushing member 112a can move from a retracted position to an advanced position within the annular cavity 144 of the housing 110 to eject the staples 120 from the staple cartridge 118.

[0077] The annular blade 116 is supported around the outer surface of the blade holder 114, defining a cylindrical cavity 117 and including a distal cutting edge 117a. In an embodiment, the annular blade 116 includes an inwardly extending shank 117b received within a recess 114a defined in the outer surface of the blade holder 114 to secure the annular blade 116 to the blade holder 114. The blade holder 114 and the annular blade 116 are positioned within a through-hole 132 of the staple actuator 112 and are movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to cut tissue radially inwardly positioned from the staple cartridge 118.

[0078] The inner housing portion 142 of the outer housing 110 defines a through hole 150. Figure 3 ), which receives the anvil shaft (not shown) of the anvil assembly 18. For a more detailed description of the exemplary anvil assembly 18, see, for example, patent '106. The through hole 150 has a receiving bushing 152 ( Figure 3 The bushing 152 defines a through-hole 150a in the proximal portion of the inner housing portion 142. The through-hole 150a is coaxial and forms an extension of the through-hole 150 of the inner housing portion 142. In an embodiment, the bushing 152 is formed of a high-strength material (e.g., metal) to provide increased strength to the inner housing portion 142 of the outer housing 110 and includes an annular flange 152a.

[0079] The housing 110 includes a support connection mechanism 160. Figure 2 The proximal portion 158 ( Figure 3 The coupling mechanism 160 is operable to releasably couple the reloading assembly 100 to the suture device 10. Figure 1 The adapter assembly 14. The coupling mechanism 160 allows for the removal and replacement of the reloading assembly 100 to facilitate the reuse of the suture device 10. The coupling mechanism 160 includes a retaining member 162 and a coupling member 164. The coupling member 164 is received in the proximal portion 158 of the housing 110. Figure 3 Around, and configured to engage the distal portion 14a of the adapter assembly 14. Figure 1 The reloading component 100 is then connected to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, other connection mechanisms are envisioned for securing the reloading component 100 to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, the reloading component 100 may be non-removably secured to the adapter assembly 14.

[0080] Reloading assembly 100 may include an e-prom holder 170 supported on housing 110 and configured to support an e-prom (not shown). Figure 3As is known in the art, the e-prom can communicate with the adapter assembly 14 to provide information to the adapter assembly 14 and the handle assembly 12 about the characteristics of the reloading assembly 10. In some embodiments, the e-prom retainer 70 may define a cylindrical collar received around the distal portion of the bushing 52.

[0081] Figure 3-6 The tool holder 114 is described, comprising a plurality of spaced-apart, resilient longitudinal body portions 173 that are spaced apart from each other and together define a central bore 172. The central bore 172 of the tool holder 114 receives an inner housing portion 142 of the outer housing 110, such that the tool holder 114 can be in a retracted position around the inner housing portion 142 of the outer housing 110. Figure 8 ) and forward position ( Figure 9 The longitudinal body portion 173 of the tool holder 114 defines a slot 176 that receives a guide portion (not shown) of the housing 110 to confine the tool holder 114 to longitudinal movement within the housing 110. In an embodiment, the tool holder 114 includes a hook member 178 positioned to engage the stud actuator 112 to move the stud actuator 112 from its retracted position to its forward position. The hook member 178 is located in the annular cavity 144 of the housing 110. Figure 3 The hook members 178 extend radially outward from the cutter holder 114 toward the staple actuator 112. Each of the hook members 178 includes an engagement surface 178a and supports a locking member 180. In an embodiment, the locking member 180 is positioned distal to the engagement surface 178a of the hook member 178 and extends outward and distally from the cutter holder 114 toward the staple actuator 112 at an acute angle. The locking member 180 may be formed of an elastic material that can deform inward toward the outer surface of the cutter holder 114 via engagement with the staple actuator 112, but is sufficiently rigid to prevent the cutter holder 114 from advancing again, as described below.

[0082] Figure 7 The description includes a stud actuator 112 comprising a body 182, which is also housed within an inner housing portion 142 of the outer housing 110. Figure 3 ) around and in response to the movement of the tool holder 114 from its retracted position to its forward position, it can move from the retracted position ( Figure 8 Move to the forward position ( Figure 9The body 182 defines a plurality of guide grooves 182a and at least one stop surface 184. In some embodiments, at least one stop surface 184 is positioned at the distal end of a channel 186 formed in the body 182. The channel 186 is positioned to receive a hook member 178. The guide grooves 182a of the staple actuator 112 receive a guide member (not shown) of the housing 110 to limit longitudinal movement of the staple actuator 112 within the housing 110. At least one stop surface 184 of the staple actuator 112 is associated with the hook member 178 of the tool holder 114. Figure 4 The engagement surface 178a of the hook member 178 of the tool holder 114 is longitudinally aligned such that the advance of the tool holder 114 within the through hole 132 of the staple actuator 112 causes the engagement surface 178a of the hook member 178 of the tool holder 112 to engage at least one stop surface 184 of the staple actuator 112 to advance the staple actuator 112 within the housing 110 from its retracted position to its advanced position.

[0083] Figure 8 Explanation of the reloading component 100 under pre-firing conditions, wherein the reloading component 100 ( Figure 3 The cutter holder 114 and the staple actuator 112 are in the retracted position, and the locking member 180 is in the unlocked position located distal to at least one stop surface 184 of the staple actuator 112. When the cutter holder 114 and the staple actuator 112 are in the pre-firing retracted position, the engagement surface 178a of each of the hook members 178 is aligned with and proximally spaced from the corresponding stop surface 184 of the staple actuator 112, and each of the locking members 180 is positioned distal to the corresponding stop surface 184 and in an undeformed state.

[0084] Figure 9 This describes the reloading assembly 100 when the staple actuator 112 and the knife holder 114 move to their forward positions. When the stitching device 10 ( Figure 1 When the scalpel holder actuator (not shown) moves the scalpel holder 114 distally within the housing 110 to its forward position in the direction indicated by arrow "A", the engaging surface 178a of the hook member 178 engages the stop surface 184 of the staple actuator 112, causing the staple actuator 112 and the scalpel holder 114 to move distally in the direction indicated by arrow "B". As the staple actuator 112 moves distally within the housing 110, the staple pushing member 112a moves distally in the direction indicated by arrow "C", causing the plurality of fingers 134 of the staple pushing member 112a to advance through the staple recess 124 of the staple cartridge 118 to eject the staples 120 from the staple cartridge 118 into the anvil assembly 18. As illustrated, the annular blade 116 fixed to the scalpel holder 114 moves distally with the scalpel holder 114 in the direction indicated by arrow "D" to cut tissue.

[0085] Figure 10 and 11 This describes the reloading assembly 100 after the reloading assembly is fired, when the scalpel holder 114 moves from its forward position to its retracted position. As the scalpel holder 114 moves proximally toward its retracted position in the direction indicated by arrow "E", the annular blade 116 also moves proximally to a position positioned within the housing 110. In this position, the clinician is protected from accidental injury caused by the cutting edge 117a of the annular blade 116. As the scalpel holder 114 and the annular blade 116 move proximally within the housing 110, the staple actuator 112 remains in its forward position within the housing 110. As the scalpel holder 114 moves proximally relative to the staple actuator 112, each of the locking members 180 engages a portion of the staple actuator 112 defining a corresponding stop surface 184, such that the locking members 180 are engaged by… Figure 10 The arrow "F" indicates the direction in which the deformation occurs towards the outer surface of the tool holder 114. In its deformed state, the locking member 180 presses inward and moves proximally beyond the corresponding stop surface 184. Figure 11 When the locking member 180 moves proximally past the corresponding stop surface 184, the locking member 180 is engaged by... Figure 11 The tool holder 112 springs back to its undeformed state in the direction indicated by the arrow "G" until it reaches a position aligned with the corresponding stop surface 184. In this position, the locking member 180 prevents the tool holder 112 from advancing again, thus retaining the ring tool 116 within the housing 110 of the reloading assembly 100.

[0086] The locking member 180 can be provided in a variety of different configurations and formed from a variety of different materials. Furthermore, the locking member 180 can be integrally formed with the tool holder 114, or separately formed with and secured to the tool holder 114 using any known fastening technique. For example, such as... Figure 3-11 As described, the locking member 180 may be in the form of a flat or rectangular leaf spring, formed of a deformable elastic material such as spring steel or plastic, and cantilevered within a groove 190 formed in the tool holder 114. Alternatively, other materials and configurations may be used to form the locking member 180. Figure 12 and 13 In one alternative embodiment shown, each of the locking members 180' is formed of a resilient wire. In this embodiment, the resilient wire 180' has a circular cross-sectional shape and is cantilevered within a groove 190' formed in the tool holder 114. Alternatively, other cross-sectional shapes are contemplated.

[0087] Figure 14-33A The description is typically shown as another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed reloading component 200. Figure 14This describes the reloading component 200, which can be used with the suture device 10 ( Figure 1 Together with and including a housing 210, a staple actuator 212, a staple pushing member 212a, a blade holder 214, a ring blade 216 supported on the blade holder 214, a staple cartridge 218, and a plurality of staples 220 supported within the staple cartridge 218. Adapter assembly 14 Figure 1 The device includes a tool holder driver 215 that interacts with the tool holder 214 to move the tool holder 214 within the housing 210. The staple cartridge 218 is annular and defines an annular row of staple recesses 224. Each of the staple recesses 224 supports one of a plurality of staples 220. A staple actuator 212 and a staple pusher member 212a together define a longitudinal through-hole 232. Figure 26 The staple actuator 212 has a distal portion that abuts against a proximal portion of the staple pusher member 212a, such that distal movement of the staple actuator 212 within the housing 210 causes distal movement of the staple pusher member 212a within the housing 210. The staple pusher member 212a of the reloading assembly 200 has a plurality of fingers 234. Each of the plurality of fingers 234 is received within a corresponding staple recess 224 of the staple cartridge 218 and is movable through the corresponding staple recess 224 to eject a staple 220 from the corresponding staple recess 224 when the staple pusher member 212a moves from a retracted position to an advanced position within the housing 210.

[0088] The outer housing 210 includes an outer housing portion 240 and an inner housing portion 242 spaced apart from each other to define an annular cavity 244 between the outer housing portion 240 and the inner housing portion 242. A staple actuator 212 and a staple pushing member 212a are movable from a retracted position to an advanced position within the annular cavity 244 of the outer housing 210 to eject staples 220 from the staple cartridge 218.

[0089] The annular blade 216 is supported around the outer surface of the blade holder 214, defining a cylindrical cavity 217 and including a distal cutting edge 217a. The blade holder 214 and the annular blade 216 are positioned within the through-hole 232 of the staple actuator 212 and are movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to cut tissue positioned radially inward from the staple cartridge 218.

[0090] The inner housing portion 242 of the outer housing 210 defines a through-hole 250, which accommodates the anvil assembly 18. Figure 1The anvil shaft (not shown). For a more detailed description of the exemplary anvil assembly 18, see, for example, patent '106. The through-hole 250 has a proximal portion receiving a bushing 252, the bushing 252 defining the through-hole 250a, which is coaxial and forms an extension of the through-hole 250 of the inner housing portion 242. In an embodiment, the bushing 252 is formed of a high-strength material (e.g., metal) to provide increased strength to the inner housing portion 242 of the outer housing 210 and includes an annular flange 252a. The annular flange 252 includes a protrusion 253.

[0091] The housing 210 includes a proximal portion 258 supporting a coupling mechanism 260 operable to releasably couple the reloading assembly 200 to the suture device 10. Figure 1 The adapter assembly 14. The coupling mechanism 260 allows for the removal and replacement of the reloading assembly 200 to facilitate the reuse of the suture device 10. The coupling mechanism 260 includes a retaining member 262 and a coupling member 264. The coupling member 264 is received around the proximal portion 258 of the housing 210 and is configured to engage the distal portion 14a of the adapter assembly 14. Figure 1 The reloading component 200 is then connected to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, other connection mechanisms are envisioned for securing the reloading component 200 to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, the reloading component 200 may be non-removably secured to the adapter assembly 14.

[0092] The reloading assembly 200 may include an e-prom holder 270 supported on the housing 210 and configured to support an e-prom (not shown). As is known in the art, the e-prom is associated with the adapter assembly 14 ( Figure 1 ) communicate with adapter assembly 14 and handle assembly 12 ( Figure 1 This provides information about the characteristics of the reloading component 10. In some embodiments, the e-prom retainer 270 may be accommodated around the distal portion of the bushing 52.

[0093] The tool holder 214 includes a plurality of resilient longitudinal body portions 273 spaced apart from each other and together defining a central bore 272. The central bore 272 of the tool holder 214 receives an inner housing portion 242 of the outer housing 210, such that the tool holder 214 is movable around the inner housing portion 242 of the outer housing 210 between a retracted position and an advanced position. The longitudinal body portions 273 of the tool holder 214 are resilient and spaced apart from each other to define a slot 276 for receiving a guide portion (not shown) of the outer housing 210 to confine the tool holder 214 to longitudinal movement within the outer housing 210.

[0094] The stapling actuator 212 includes a body that is also housed around an inner housing portion 242 of the housing 210 and is movable within the housing 210 from a retracted position to an advanced position. The body defines a plurality of guide slots 281 that receive guide members (not shown) of the housing 210 to confine the stapling actuator 212 to longitudinal movement within the housing 210.

[0095] Figure 14-20 The locking member 280 of the reloading assembly 200 is described, comprising a body 282 having an annular ring 284 and a locking latch 286. The annular ring 284 is received around a proximal portion of the bushing 252 and positioned abutting against a flange 252a to secure the locking member 280 to the bushing 252. Figure 14 The annular ring 284 defines a cutout 288, which may be rectangular in shape and accommodates a protrusion 253 formed on the bushing 252 to prevent the locking member 280 from being positioned relative to the bushing 252. Figure 20 Rotation. In an embodiment, the annular ring 280 of the locking member 280 may include a slot 298 to allow radial flexure of the annular ring 280 to facilitate placement of the locking member 280 around the bushing 252 in a friction-fit manner.

[0096] The locking latch 286 is formed of a resilient material and extends cantileveredly from the annular ring 284. In an embodiment, the locking latch 286 is integrally formed with the annular ring 280 of the locking member. Alternatively, the locking latch 286 may be cantileveredly pivotally secured to the annular ring 280 using, for example, a hinge mechanism (not shown). The locking latch 286 includes a first tab 290 having an angled proximal-facing surface 292 and a second tab 294 having a substantially vertical proximal-facing surface 296. In an embodiment, the first tab 290 has a generally triangular shape, and the second tab 294 has a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, other configurations are contemplated. The locking latch 286 is movable from an unbiased position in which the locking latch 286 is spaced outward from the outer surface of the bushing 252 and extends along said outer surface to a biased position in which the locking latch 286 is biased inward toward the outer surface of the bushing 252.

[0097] Figure 21-23 This describes the proximal portion of the longitudinal main body portion 273 of the tool holder 214. Each of the longitudinal main body portions 273 of the tool holder 214 defines an annular groove 300 and a tapered surface 302 positioned proximal to the annular groove 300. The tool holder driver 215 of the adapter assembly 14 (… Figure 23 ) includes an inner annular rib 306 housed within an annular groove 300 in the longitudinal body portion 273, so that when the sewing device 10 ( Figure 1 ) is actuated to fire the screw 220 from the reloading component 200. Figure 14When the tool holder driver 215 is connected to the tool holder 214, one of the longitudinal body portions 273 also defines a notch 310, which receives a second tab 294 of the locking member 280 when the tool holder 214 is in the retracted position within the housing 210, to prevent distal movement of the tool holder within the housing 210.

[0098] Figure 24-29 The reloading assembly 200 is described in a pre-firing state, with the tool holder 214, tool driver 215, staple actuator 212, and staple pusher 212a in their retracted positions. In the pre-firing state, the distal end of the tool driver 215 is positioned adjacent to the proximal end of the tool holder 214 and adjacent to the locking latch 286 of the locking member 280. In this position, the internal annular rib 306 at the distal end portion of the tool driver 215 is proximal to an annular groove 300 formed in the longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool holder 214. Additionally, the locking latch 286 is in its undeformed state, with a first tab 290 of the locking latch 286 positioned adjacent to the distal end of the tool driver 215, and a second tab 294 received within a recess 310 formed in the longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool holder 214. When the second tab 294 is positioned within the notch 310, the proximal surface 296 of the second tab 294 obstructs the advance of the tool holder 214 within the housing 210.

[0099] Figures 30-33 This describes the reloading assembly 200 when the tool driver 215 moves toward its forward position to move the tool holder 214 and the ring cutter 216 toward their forward position. When the tool driver 215 is in the forward position... Figure 30 As the arrow "H" indicates the direction of advancement within the housing 210, the distal end portion of the tool driver 215 engages the tapered surface 302 at the proximal end portion of each of the longitudinal body portions 273 of the tool holder 214, in order to... Figure 30 The longitudinal body portion 273 is pushed inward in the direction indicated by the arrow "I". This allows the internal annular rib 306 of the tool driver 215 to press into the annular groove 300 of the longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool holder 214 to engage the distal end portion of the tool driver 215 with the proximal end portion of the tool holder 214.

[0100] When the blade driver 215 continues to operate within the housing 210, it is driven by... Figure 31As the tool driver 215 moves in the direction indicated by arrow "H", the distal end portion also engages the angled proximal surface 292 of the first tab 290 to push the locking latch 286 inward toward its deformed state in the direction indicated by arrow "J". When the locking latch 286 moves inward toward the bushing 252 to its deformed state, the second tab 294 of the locking latch 286 is removed from the notch 310 formed in the proximal end of the corresponding longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool holder 214. In this position, the second tab 294 does not obstruct the movement of the tool holder 214 within the housing 210. As the blade driver 215 advances within the housing 210, the engagement between the blade driver 215 and the first tab 290 retains the locking latch 286 in its deformed state, wherein the second tab 294 is removed from the notch 310 to allow the blade holder 214 and the blade driver 215 to move to their forward position to advance the annular blade 216 to its forward position extending from the housing 210 to cut tissue.

[0101] Figure 33A This describes the reloading assembly 200 when the tool holder 214 and the tool driver 215 move from their forward position back to their retracted position in the direction indicated by arrow "K". This movement causes the annular tool 216 to retract into the housing 210. When the tool holder 214 reaches its retracted position and cannot move further proximally, the longitudinal body portion 273 is forcefully pulled inward by the internal annular rib 306 of the tool driver 215, causing the internal annular rib 306 to be removed from the annular groove 300 of the longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool driver 214, thereby disengaging the tool driver 215 from the tool holder 214. When the notch 310 in the longitudinal body portion 273 of the tool holder 214 aligns with the second tab 294 of the locking latch 286 of the locking member 280, the locking latch 286 is engaged by... Figure 33A Pivot in the direction indicated by the arrow "L" to reposition the second tab 294 within the notch 310. Again, this impedes the advance of the tool holder 214 to prevent the annular cutter 216 from advancing again from within the housing 210.

[0102] Figure 34-42 The description is typically shown as being compatible with suture device 10 ( Figure 1 Another exemplary embodiment of the disclosed reload component of the reload component 400 used together. Figure 34 and 35 The description is generally shown as another exemplary embodiment of the reloading assembly 400. The reloading assembly 400 includes a housing 410, a staple actuator 412, a staple pushing member 412a, a blade holder 414, a ring blade 416 supported on the blade holder 414, a staple cartridge 418, and a plurality of staples 420 supported within the staple cartridge 418. Adapter assembly 14 ( Figure 1This includes a tool holder driver 415 that interacts with the tool holder 414. Figure 35 The tool holder 414 is moved from a retracted position to an advanced position within the housing frame 410, as described in detail below. The staple cartridge 418 is annular and defines an annular row of staple recesses 424. Each of the staple recesses 424 supports one of a plurality of staples 420. The staple actuator 412 and the staple pusher member 412a together define a longitudinal through-hole 432. Figure 35 The staple actuator 412 has a distal portion that abuts against a proximal portion of the staple pusher member 412a, such that distal movement of the staple actuator 412 within the housing 410 causes distal movement of the staple pusher member 412a within the housing 410. The staple pusher member 412a of the reloading assembly 400 has a plurality of fingers 434. Each of the plurality of fingers 434 is received within a corresponding staple recess 424 of the staple cartridge 418 and is movable through the corresponding staple recess 424 to eject a staple 420 from the corresponding recess 424 of the staple cartridge 418 when the staple pusher member 412a moves from a retracted position to an advanced position within the housing 410.

[0103] The outer housing 410 includes an outer housing portion 440 and an inner housing portion 442, which are spaced apart from each other to define an annular cavity 444 between the outer housing portion 440 and the inner housing portion 442. Figure 35 The staple actuator 412 and the staple pushing member 412a can move from a retracted position to an advanced position within the annular cavity 444 of the housing 410 to eject the staples 420 from the staple cartridge 418.

[0104] The annular blade 416 is supported around the outer surface of the blade holder 414, defines a cylindrical cavity 417, and includes an annular cutting edge 417a. The blade holder 414 and the annular blade 416 are positioned within the through-hole 432 of the staple actuator 412 and are movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to cut tissue positioned radially inward from the staple cartridge 418.

[0105] The inner housing portion 442 of the outer housing 410 defines a through-hole 450, which accommodates the anvil assembly 18. Figure 1 The anvil shaft (not shown). The through-hole 450 has a proximal portion receiving a bushing 452, which defines the through-hole 450a, which is coaxial with and extends from the through-hole 450 of the inner housing portion 442. In an embodiment, the bushing 452 is formed of a high-strength material (e.g., metal) to provide increased strength to the inner housing portion 442 of the outer housing 410 and includes an annular flange 452a. The outer housing 410 includes a proximal portion 458 supporting a coupling mechanism 460 operable to releasably couple the reloading assembly 400 to the stitching device 10. Figure 1 The adapter assembly 14. The coupling mechanism 460 allows for the removal and replacement of the reloading assembly 400 to facilitate the stitching device 10. Figure 1 The coupling mechanism 460 includes a retaining member 462 and a coupling member 464. The coupling member 464 is housed around the proximal portion 458 of the housing 410 and is configured to engage the distal portion 14a of the adapter assembly 14. Figure 1 The reloading component 400 is connected to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, other connection mechanisms are envisioned for securing the reloading component 400 to the adapter assembly 14. Alternatively, the reloading component 400 may be securely fixed to the adapter assembly 14.

[0106] The tool holder 414 includes spaced apart from each other and together defining a center hole 472. Figure 35 The tool holder 414 comprises multiple spaced longitudinal body portions 473. A central hole 472 of the tool holder 414 receives an inner housing portion 442 of the outer housing 410, allowing the tool holder 414 to move between a retracted position and an advanced position around the inner housing portion 442 of the outer housing 410. The longitudinal body portions 473 of the tool holder 414 are spaced apart from each other to define a slot 476 for receiving a guide portion (not shown) of the outer housing 410, thereby limiting the tool holder 414 to longitudinal movement within the outer housing 410.

[0107] The stapling actuator 412 includes a body that is also housed around an inner housing portion 442 of the housing 410 and is movable within the housing 410 from a retracted position to an advanced position. The body of the stapling actuator 412 defines a plurality of guide slots (not shown) that receive guide members (not shown) of the housing 410 to confine the stapling actuator 412 to longitudinal movement within the housing 410.

[0108] Figure 36 and 37 The locking member 480 of the reloading assembly 400 is described, comprising a body 482 having an annular ring 484 and a locking latch 486. The annular ring 484 is received in a bushing 452. Figure 35 Around the proximal portion of the bushing 452, and positioned adjacent to the flange 452a, to secure the locking member 480 to the bushing 452. Figure 35 The annular ring 484 of the locking member 480 may include a slot 498 to allow flexure of the annular ring 480 to facilitate placement of the locking member 480 around the bushing 452 in a friction-fit manner.

[0109] The locking latch 486 is formed of an elastic material and extends from the annular ring 484. In an embodiment, the locking latch 486 is integrally formed with the annular ring 484 of the locking member 480 and includes a first longitudinal portion 488, a transverse portion 490, and a second longitudinal portion 492. The first longitudinal portion 488 has a first end coupled to the annular ring 484 and extends distally from the annular ring 484. The transverse portion 490 of the locking latch 486 extends radially outward from the bushing 452 from a second end of the first longitudinal portion 488. The second longitudinal portion 492 extends proximally from the transverse portion 490 and has a proximal end portion supporting the latch member 494. In an embodiment, the latch member 494 includes a cam surface 494a that extends radially outward at an angle from the second longitudinal portion 492 and defines an axis transverse to the axis defined by the first longitudinal portion 488 and the second longitudinal portion 492 of the locking member 480 and transverse to the transverse portion 490. In an embodiment, the locking member 480 may have an integral construction. Alternatively, the locking latch 486 can be pivotally secured to the annular ring 480 using any of a variety of fastening techniques.

[0110] In one embodiment, the first longitudinal portion 488 and the second longitudinal portion 492 are aligned with one of the longitudinal slots 476 defined between the longitudinal body portions 473 of the tool holder 414, and the transverse portion 490 extends through the corresponding slot 476. In this configuration, the first longitudinal portion 488 of the locking member 480 is positioned within the tool holder 414, and the second longitudinal portion 492 is positioned along the outer surface of the tool holder 414 and cantileveredly supports the latching member 494.

[0111] Figure 37 and 38 The description focuses on the proximal portion of the longitudinal main body portion 473 of the tool holder 414. Each of the longitudinal main body portions 473 of the tool holder 414 defines an annular groove 500 and includes a tapered proximal surface 502 positioned proximal to the annular groove 500. The annular groove 500 is partially defined by a proximal wall 500a. Adapter assembly 14 ( Figure 1 ) knife driver 415 ( Figure 38 ) includes an inner annular rib 506 housed within an annular groove 500 in the longitudinal body portion 473, so that when the sewing device 10 ( Figure 1 When actuated to fire the sprue pin (not shown) from the reload assembly 400, the tool driver 415 is coupled to the tool holder 414. When the tool holder 414 is in the pre-firing retracted position, the latch member 494 is received in the annular groove 500 of the tool holder 414. Figure 37 Inside, to prevent the tool holder 414 from being inside the outer casing 410 ( Figure 34The distal movement of the tool holder 414. More specifically, the latching member 494 is positioned to engage the proximal sidewall 500a of the annular groove 500 defined in the tool holder 414 to prevent the tool holder 414 from advancing within the housing 410.

[0112] Figure 35 and 38 The reloading assembly 400 is described in a pre-firing state, with the tool holder 414, tool driver 415, staple actuator 412, and staple pusher 412a in their retracted positions. In the pre-firing state, the distal end of the tool driver 415 is positioned adjacent to the proximal end of the tool holder 414 and adjacent to the locking latch 486 of the locking member 480. In this position, the internal annular rib 506 at the distal end portion of the tool driver 415 is proximally spaced from the annular groove 500 formed in the longitudinal body portion 473 of the tool holder 414. Additionally, the locking latch 486 is in its undeformed state, with the latch member 494 of the locking latch 486 received within the annular groove 500 of the tool holder 414. In this position, the latch member 494 is aligned with the proximal wall 500a defining the annular groove 500 to prevent the tool holder 414 from advancing from its retracted position toward its forward position. In its retracted position, the annular blade 416, including the cutting edge 417a, is concealed within the housing 410.

[0113] Figures 39-41 This describes the reloading assembly 400 when the tool driver 415 moves from its retracted position toward its forward position to move the tool holder 414 and the ring cutter 416 toward its forward position. When the tool driver 415 is in the forward position... Figure 39 As the arrow "M" indicates the direction of advancement within the housing 410, the distal end portion of the tool driver 415 engages the tapered surface 502 at the proximal end portion of each of the longitudinal body portions 473 of the tool holder 414, in order to... Figure 39 The longitudinal body portion 473 is pushed inward in the direction indicated by the arrow "N". This allows the internal annular rib 506 of the tool driver 515 to press into the annular groove 500 of the longitudinal body portion 473 of the tool holder 414 to engage the distal end portion of the tool driver 415 with the proximal end portion of the tool holder 414. Figure 41 ).

[0114] When the blade driver 415 continues to operate within the housing 410, it is driven by... Figure 39 and 40As the blade driver 415 advances in the direction indicated by arrow "M", the distal end portion engages the cam surface 494a of the latch member 494 to push the locking latch 486 outward toward its deformed state in the direction indicated by arrow "O". As the locking latch 486 moves outward away from the bushing 452 toward its deformed state, the latching member 494 of the locking latch 486 is removed from the annular groove 500 formed in the proximal end of the longitudinal body portion 473 of the blade holder 514, so that the latching member 494 does not obstruct the advance of the blade holder 414 within the housing 410. Thus, the blade holder 414 and the annular blade 416 can advance to cut tissue.

[0115] Figure 42 This describes the reloading assembly 400 when the tool holder 414 and the tool driver 415 move from their forward position back to their retracted position in the direction indicated by arrow "P". This movement causes the ring tool 416 ( Figure 35 The tool holder 414 retracts into the housing 410. When the tool holder 414 reaches its retracted position and cannot be moved further proximally through the housing 410... Figure 35 When the tool driver 415 is in the longitudinal body portion 473, the internal annular rib 506 of the tool driver 415 applies inward force, causing the internal annular rib 506 to be removed from the annular groove 500 of the longitudinal body portion 473 of the tool driver 415, thereby disengaging the tool driver 415 from the tool holder 414. In its retracted position, the annular groove 500 of the tool holder 414 aligns with the latch member 494 of the locking latch 486 of the locking member 480, causing the locking latch 486 to return to its undeformed state, wherein the latch member 480 is received within the annular groove 500 of the adjacent longitudinal body portion 473. Again, the latch member 480 impedes the advancement of the tool holder 414 to prevent the annular tool 216 from advancing again from the housing 410.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will understand that the apparatuses and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments. It is contemplated that elements and features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with elements and features of another exemplary embodiment without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand additional features and advantages of this disclosure based on the above embodiments. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited to what has been specifically shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A surgical suturing device comprising: An adapter assembly having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; and A reloading component, supported on the distal end portion of the adapter assembly, the reloading component comprising: A housing, comprising an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion, the inner housing portion and the outer housing portion defining an annular cavity; The staple cartridge supports multiple staples; A staple pusher, which is supported within the annular cavity and can move from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject a staple from the staple cartridge; A staple actuator supported within the annular cavity and having a stop surface, the staple actuator being positioned to engage the staple pusher and being movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from the retracted position to the advanced position, the staple actuator and the staple pusher defining a through hole; A tool holder, supported within the through-hole and movable between a retracted position and an advance position, defines a longitudinal axis and supports a resilient locking member, wherein when the staple actuator is in the advance position and the tool holder is in the retracted position, the resilient locking member aligns with the stop surface on the staple actuator to prevent the tool holder from advancing again; and The knife is supported on the knife holder.

2. The surgical suturing device of claim 1, further comprising a handle assembly, wherein the proximal end portion of the adapter assembly is supported on the handle assembly.

3. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the locking member is movable from an undeformed state in which the locking member extends outward and distally from the scalpel holder to a deformed state in which the locking member is substantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the scalpel holder.

4. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 3, wherein when the staple actuator and the scalpel are in their retracted positions, the locking member is positioned distal to the stop surface of the staple actuator, and when the staple actuator is in its forward position and the scalpel moves from its forward position to its retracted position, the locking member is movable from the undeformed state to the deformed state to allow the locking member to move proximally past the stop surface.

5. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the scalpel holder includes a hook member aligned with the stop surface of the staple actuator, such that movement of the scalpel holder from a retracted position to an advanced position moves the staple actuator from a retracted position to an advanced position.

6. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the locking member is cantilevered on the scalpel holder.

7. The surgical suturing device according to claim 6, wherein the locking member is formed of a flat leaf spring.

8. The surgical suturing device according to claim 6, wherein the locking member is formed of a wire having a cylindrical cross-section.

9. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a coupling mechanism that couples the reloading assembly to the adapter assembly to facilitate release of the reloading assembly from the adapter assembly.

10. A surgical suturing device comprising: An adapter assembly having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion and including a blade driver movable between a retracted position and an advanced position; and A reloading component, supported on the distal end portion of the adapter assembly, the reloading component comprising: A housing, comprising an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion, the inner housing portion and the outer housing portion defining an annular cavity; A staple cartridge, which is supported on the outer casing and includes a plurality of staples; A staple pusher, which is supported within the annular cavity and can move from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject a staple from the staple cartridge; A staple actuator, which is supported within the annular cavity at a position engaging the staple pusher and defining a through hole, the staple actuator being movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from the retracted position to the advanced position. A tool holder, supported within the through hole and comprising a distal portion and a proximal portion, is movable between a retracted position and a forward position in response to movement of the tool driver from a retracted position to an advanced position of the tool driver; The knife, which is supported on the knife holder; and A locking member, supported on the inner housing portion, includes a locking latch that is movable from an undeformed state to a deformed state in response to movement of the tool driver from a retracted position toward an advanced position, wherein in the undeformed state, the locking latch engages with the tool holder to prevent the tool holder from advancing within the outer housing.

11. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 10, wherein the proximal portion of the scalpel holder includes a resilient longitudinal body portion, each of the resilient longitudinal body portions defining an annular groove, and the scalpel driver has a distal end portion including an annular rib, the annular rib being received within the annular groove to engage the scalpel driver with the scalpel holder as the scalpel driver moves from a retracted position toward an advanced position.

12. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 10, wherein the locking latch supports the first tab and the blade holder defines a recess in which the first tab is received when the locking latch is in its undeformed state to prevent the blade holder from advancing within the housing.

13. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 12, wherein the locking latch includes a second tab having an angled, proximal-facing surface, and the blade actuator is movable from a retracted position toward an advanced position to engage with the second tab to move the locking latch from the undeformed state to the deformed state.

14. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 11, wherein the proximal end portion of each of the longitudinal body portions includes a tapered surface positioned proximal to the annular groove, wherein when the knife driver and the knife holder are in the retracted position, the tapered surface is aligned with and positioned distal to the distal end portion of the knife driver.

15. The surgical suturing device of claim 11, further comprising a bushing supported on the inner housing portion of the outer housing, the locking member being supported on the bushing.

16. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the bushing includes a protrusion, and the locking member includes an annular ring defining an incision, the annular ring being received around the bushing, and the protrusion being received within the incision to prevent the locking member from rotating relative to the bushing.

17. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 15, wherein the locking member comprises an annular ring supported on the bushing, and the locking latch of the locking member comprises a transverse portion extending through a slot defined by the longitudinal body portion of the blade holder and a proximal longitudinal portion extending cantilevered from the transverse portion, the proximal longitudinal portion of the locking latch supporting the latching member, wherein, when the locking latch is in the undeformed state, the latching member is positioned within one of the annular grooves of one of the longitudinal body portions of the blade holder to impede distal movement of the blade holder within the housing.

18. The surgical suturing apparatus of claim 17, wherein the locking member includes a cam surface positioned adjacent to the latching member, the cam surface being engaged by the distal end portion of the knife driver when the knife driver moves from a retracted position toward an advanced position to move the locking member from the undeformed state to the deformed state.

19. A reloading component comprising: A housing, comprising an outer housing portion and an inner housing portion, the inner housing portion and the outer housing portion defining an annular cavity; A staple cartridge, which is supported on the outer casing and includes a plurality of staples; A staple pusher, which is supported within the annular cavity and can move from a retracted position to an advanced position to eject a staple from the staple cartridge; A staple actuator, which is supported within the annular cavity at a position engaging the staple pusher and defining a through hole, the staple actuator being movable from a retracted position to an advanced position to move the staple pusher from the retracted position to the advanced position. A tool holder, which is supported within the through hole and includes a distal portion and a proximal portion, is movable between a retracted position and an advanced position; A blade, supported on the blade holder, and capable of moving from the retracted position to the forward position in response to movement of the blade holder from the retracted position to the forward position to cut tissue; and A locking member, supported on the inner housing portion, includes a locking latch that is movable from an undeformed state to a deformed state in response to movement of the tool driver from its retracted position toward its forward position, wherein in the undeformed state, the locking latch engages with the tool holder to prevent the tool holder from advancing within the outer housing.

20. The reloading assembly of claim 19, further comprising a bushing supported on the inner housing portion of the outer housing, the locking member being supported on the bushing.

Images