Enhanced deformable anvil tip for a surgical stapler anvil

Abstract

The present invention discloses an anvil for a surgical stapler. In various arrangements, the anvil includes an anvil body made of a first material and an end member made of a second material different from the first material. The end member may include a flexible attachment portion configured to be received in an opening in the distal end of the anvil body. A second attachment member is configured to be able to non-removably engage the first flexible attachment portion to bias the first flexible attachment portion to remain engaged with a corresponding portion of the distal end of the anvil body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a surgical stapler, and in particular, to a reinforced deformable anvil tip for an anvil of a surgical stapler. Background Art

[0002] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments designed to stapling and cutting tissue and staple cartridges for use therewith. Summary of the invention

[0003] According to one embodiment of the present invention, an anvil for a surgical stapler comprises: an anvil body, which is made of a first material and defines an anvil axis; and an end member, which is made of a second material different from the first material, the end member comprising: a first flexible attachment portion, which is configured to be received in an opening in the distal end of the anvil body; and a distal portion, which protrudes at an angle from the first flexible attachment portion, and wherein the anvil also comprises a second attachment member, which is configured to be able to non-removably engage the first flexible attachment portion to bias the first flexible attachment portion to remain engaged with a corresponding portion of the distal end of the anvil body.

[0004] Preferably, the first flexible attachment portion includes a slotted opening therethrough for receiving the second attachment member therein in an insertion direction transverse to the anvil axis.

[0005] Preferably, the second attachment member is inserted into the slotted opening with pressure and heat applied to the second attachment member.

[0006] Preferably, the second attachment member is made of a material that is capable of permanent deformation.

[0007] Preferably, said first material comprises metal, and wherein said second material comprises a plastic material.

[0008] Preferably, the metal comprises titanium, and wherein the second material comprises a thermosetting plastic.

[0009] Preferably, the anvil body further comprises: an elongated slot; and a nail forming lower surface, and wherein the anvil comprises an anvil cover configured to be attached to the anvil body to cover at least a portion of the upper end of the elongated slot and to retain the first flexible attachment portion within the opening in the distal end of the anvil body.

[0010] Preferably, the anvil cover is made from the first material and is configured to be welded to the anvil body.

[0011] Preferably, the tip member is attached to the distal end of the anvil body and the distal portion of the tip member extends below the staple forming lower surface.

[0012] Preferably, the second attachment member includes a tissue grasping feature thereon.

[0013] Preferably, the second attachment member comprises: a main body portion; a transverse portion extending laterally from the main body portion and comprising the tissue grasping feature thereon; and a permanently deformable retention feature on the main body portion.

[0014] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an anvil for a surgical stapler comprises: an anvil body, the anvil body being made of a first material and comprising a distally extending attachment member protruding from a distal end of the anvil body; and a terminal member, the terminal member being made of a second material different from the first material and being configured to be molded around the distally extending attachment member, wherein the anvil body comprises a lubricating medium thereon, and wherein the distally extending attachment member is free of the lubricating medium.

[0015] Preferably, the anvil body defines a nail forming lower surface, and wherein the end member includes: a proximal attachment portion; and a distal end portion, wherein the distal end portion extends at an angle from the proximal attachment portion so that the distal end portion extends below the nail forming lower surface of the anvil body.

[0016] Preferably, the first material comprises a metallic material, and wherein the second material comprises a thermoplastic material.

[0017] Preferably, the distally extending attachment member includes a planar attachment portion that projects distally from the distal end of the anvil body and a transverse portion that is attached to and extends laterally from the planar attachment portion.

[0018] Preferably, the transverse portion comprises a plurality of lugs formed thereon.

[0019] Preferably, the planar attachment portion includes an aperture therethrough.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an anvil for a surgical stapler, the anvil comprising: an anvil body, the anvil body being made of a first material and defining an elongated narrow slot extending therethrough; an end member, the end member being made of a second material different from the first material, the end member comprising: a first attachment portion, the first attachment portion being configured to be received in an opening in a distal end of the anvil body; and a distal portion, the distal portion protruding at an angle from the first flexible attachment portion, and wherein the anvil further comprises an anvil cover, the anvil cover being configured to be attached to the anvil body to cover at least a portion of the upper end of the elongated narrow slot and to retain the first attachment portion in the opening in the distal end of the anvil body.

[0021] Preferably, the end member further comprises an insert attached to the end member, the insert being made of an insert material different from the second material.

[0022] Preferably, said insert material comprises said first material. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The various features of the embodiments described herein, together with their advantages, may be understood from the following description in conjunction with the following drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electric surgical suturing system;

[0025] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A perspective view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of an electric surgical stapling system;

[0026] Figure 3 for Figure 1 An exploded assembly view of multiple parts of a handle assembly of an electric surgical stapling system;

[0027] Figure 4 for Figure 2 An exploded assembly view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly;

[0028] Figure 5 for Figure 4 another partially exploded assembly view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly;

[0029] Figure 6 for Figure 2 another partial perspective view of an end effector portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly, wherein the jaws of the end effector are in an open position;

[0030] Figure 7 for Figure 6Another perspective view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly;

[0031] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a distal closure member;

[0032] Fig. 9 for Figure 8 An end view of an embodiment of a distal closure member of ;

[0033] Fig.10 for Figure 7 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the invention, wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in a fully open position;

[0034] Fig.11 For along Fig.10 The line 11-11 in Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0035] Fig.12 for Fig.11 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with an anvil and a closure member in a closed position;

[0036] Fig.13 For along Fig.12 The line 13-13 in Fig.12 a cross-sectional view of an anvil and a closing member;

[0037] Fig.14 for Fig.13 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the invention, wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in an “over-closed” position;

[0038] Fig.15 For along Fig.14 The line 15-15 is intercepted Fig.14 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0039] Fig.16 is a perspective view of another end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly, wherein an anvil of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly is in an open position;

[0040] Fig.17 for Fig.16 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the invention, wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in a fully open position;

[0041] Fig.18 For along Fig.17 The line 18-18 in Fig.17 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0042] Fig.19 for Fig.17 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly, wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in a closed position;

[0043] Fig. 20 For along Fig.19 The line 20-20 in Fig.19 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0044] Fig.21 for Fig.19 a side elevation view of an end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the invention, wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in an over-closed position;

[0045] Fig. 22 For along Fig.21 The line 22-22 in Fig.21 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0046] Fig.23 is an end view of another distal closure member embodiment;

[0047] Fig.24 is a side elevation view of another end effector and a portion of another interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly in an open position;

[0048] Fig.25 For along Fig.24 The line 25-25 in Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0049] Fig.26 for Fig.24 a side elevation view of an end effector and an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of , wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in a closed position;

[0050] Fig. 27 For along Fig.26 The line 27-27 in Fig.26 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0051] Fig.28 for Fig.24 a side elevation view of an end effector and interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of , wherein an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in an over-closed position;

[0052] Fig.29 For along Fig.28 The line 29-29 in Fig.28 A cross-sectional view of an end effector and a closing member;

[0053] Fig.30 is an end view of another closure member embodiment;

[0054] Fig.31 is a side elevation view of another end effector and a portion of another interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly in a closed position;

[0055] Fig.32 for Fig.31 another side elevation view of an end effector of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the anvil and closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in an “over-closed” position;

[0056] Fig.33 for Fig.31 an enlarged side elevation view of a portion of an end effector and a closing member of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the anvil is in a closed position;

[0057] Fig.34 for Fig.32 another enlarged side elevation view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the anvil is in an over-closed position;

[0058] Fig.35 is a side elevation view of another end effector and a portion of another interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with an anvil and a closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly in a closed position;

[0059] Fig.36 for Fig.35 an enlarged side elevation view of a portion of an end effector and a closing member of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the anvil is in a closed position;

[0060] Fig.37 for Fig.35 another side elevation view of an end effector of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the present invention, wherein the anvil and closure member of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly are in an over-closed position;

[0061] Fig.38 for Fig.37 another enlarged side elevation view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the anvil is in an over-closed position;

[0062] Fig.39 is a perspective view of a prior art surgical staple cartridge configured to form a flexible surgical staple line;

[0063] Fig.40 To pass Fig.39 A top view of a surgical staple line formed in tissue by a surgical staple cartridge;

[0064] Fig.41 is a side elevation view of a previous surgical staple embodiment;

[0065] Fig.42 is a side elevation view of another prior surgical staple embodiment;

[0066] Fig.43 An exploded assembly view of a portion of an anvil and an anvil end arrangement structure;

[0067] Fig.44 for Fig.43 A side elevation view of an anvil and an anvil tip;

[0068] Fig.45 for Fig.43 and Fig.44 A top view of an anvil and anvil end;

[0069] Fig.46 an exploded assembly view of a portion of another anvil and an anvil end arrangement structure;

[0070] Fig.47 for Fig.46 A bottom perspective view of a portion of an anvil and an anvil end arrangement;

[0071] Fig.48 is a perspective view of a portion of another anvil, wherein anvil tip arrangement is shown in phantom;

[0072] Fig.49 for Fig.48 Another perspective view of an anvil of the present invention, wherein the anvil end arrangement structure is molded onto the anvil;

[0073] Fig.50 an exploded assembly view of a portion of another anvil and an anvil end arrangement; and

[0074] Fig.51 for Fig.50 A perspective view of an anvil with an anvil end arrangement structure attached to the anvil.

[0075] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.The exemplification described herein illustrates various embodiments of the invention in one form, and such exemplification should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0076] The applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on the same date as the present application and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0077] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,101, entitled “METHOD FOR FABRICATING SURGICAL STAPLERANVILS,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054323;

[0078] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,150, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH STAPLEDIRECTING PROTRUSIONS AND TISSUE STABILITY FEATURES,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No.

[0079] 2020 / 0054326;

[0080] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,098, entitled “FABRICATING TECHNIQUES FOR SURGICAL STAPLERANVILS,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054322;

[0081] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,122, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVEDCLOSURE MEMBERS,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054324;

[0082] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,140, ​​entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH TISSUE STOP FEATURES CONFIGURED TO AVOID TISSUE PINCH," now U.S. Patent No. 10,799,821;

[0083] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,081, entitled “METHOD FOR OPERATING A POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054320;

[0084] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,094, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054321, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE JAW CLOSUREARRANGEMENTS”;

[0085] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,097, entitled “POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS TO CONVERT LINEAR DRIVE MOTIONS TO ROTARY DRIVE MOTIONS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054328;

[0086] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,104, entitled "POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING AND LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR LINKING AN ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM TO A FIRING DRIVE SYSTEM," now U.S. Patent No. 10,842,492;

[0087] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,119, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0054330, entitled “ARTICULATABLE MOTOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH DEDICATED ARTICULATION MOTOR ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0088] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,160, now U.S. Patent No. 10,856,870, entitled "SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOTOR POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

[0089] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS" No.29 / 660,252 .

[0090] The applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications and U.S. patents, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0091] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,185, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLY HEREFORM,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -0168642;

[0092] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,230, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -0168649;

[0093] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,221, entitled “LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL ENDEFFECTORS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -01686;

[0094] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,209, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERSTHEREOF,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168645;

[0095] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,198, entitled “LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL ENDEFFECTORS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168644;

[0096] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,240, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRINGMEMBERS THEREFOR,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168651;

[0097] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,939, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168629;

[0098] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,941, entitled “SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FORSHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168630;

[0099] -Named "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-

[0100] FORMING ANVILS” U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,943, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168631;

[0101] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,950, entitled “SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURESTROKE REDUCTION FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168635;

[0102] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,945, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168632;

[0103] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,946, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168633;

[0104] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,951, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASING A JAW OPENING DISTANCE,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168636;

[0105] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,953, entitled “METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -0168637;

[0106] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,954, entitled “FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168638;

[0107] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,955, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOPARRANGEMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168639;

[0108] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,948, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168584;

[0109] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,956, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168640;

[0110] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,958, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168641;

[0111] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,947, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168634;

[0112] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,896, entitled “METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICALINSTRUMENT SHAFT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168597;

[0113] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,898, entitled “STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACHEMMODATE DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168599;

[0114] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,899, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168600;

[0115] -The name of the US "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWSDEFINED THEREIN"

[0116] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,901, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168602; - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,902, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER," U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168603;

[0117] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,904, entitled “STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND / ORSPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168605;

[0118] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,905, entitled “FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168606;

[0119] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,907, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING ANEND EFFECTOR LOCKOUT AND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168608;

[0120] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,908, entitled “FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168609;

[0121] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,909, entitled “FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLEFAILED-STATE FUSE,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168610;

[0122] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,920, entitled “STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168620;

[0123] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,913, entitled “ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168614;

[0124] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,914, entitled “METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLECARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168615;

[0125] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,893, entitled “BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE-FORMING POCKET PAIRS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168594;

[0126] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,929, entitled “CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACEARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168626;

[0127] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,911, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168612, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLYACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS”;

[0128] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,927, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMARTSTAPLE CARTRIDGES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -0168625;

[0129] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,917, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168617, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS”;

[0130] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,900, entitled “STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTSCOMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168601;

[0131] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,931, entitled “NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168627;

[0132] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,915, entitled “FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168616;

[0133] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,897, entitled “STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTSCOMPRISING ZONED FORMING SURFACE GROOVES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168598;

[0134] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,922, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURERESPONSE MODES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168622;

[0135] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,924, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168624;

[0136] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,910, entitled “ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168611;

[0137] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,903, entitled “CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / -0168604;

[0138] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,906, entitled “FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168607;

[0139] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,188, entitled “STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168585;

[0140] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,192, entitled “STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUERETENTION AND GAP SETTING FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168643;

[0141] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,206, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVERRETENTION FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168586;

[0142] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,226, entitled “DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIES OF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168648;

[0143] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,222, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING ENDEFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE OPENING FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168647;

[0144] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,236, entitled “CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168650;

[0145] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,887, entitled “METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168589;

[0146] -Named "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-

[0147] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,889, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168590, entitled "OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH AMOTORIZED SURGICALINSTRUMENT SYSTEM";

[0148] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,890, entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELYACTUATABLE ANDRETRACTABLE SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168591;

[0149] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,891, entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THE OUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168592;

[0150] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,892, entitled “SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBERROTATABLE INTO ANARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168593;

[0151] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,894, entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168595;

[0152] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,895, entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECONDARTICULATION LOCKOUTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168596;

[0153] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,916, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168575;

[0154] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,918, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168618;

[0155] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,919, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168619;

[0156] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,921, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168621;

[0157] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,923, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168623;

[0158] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,925, entitled “JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FORPREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF AFIRING MEMBER IN ASURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED CARTRIDGEISINSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168576;

[0159] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,926, entitled “AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEMARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168577;

[0160] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,928, entitled “PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN A MOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168578;

[0161] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,930, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENING FEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168579;

[0162] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,932, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITHASYMMETRIC SHAFTARRANGEMENT,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168628;

[0163] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,933, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLE LINKAGE DISTAL OF ANARTICULATION LOCK,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168580;

[0164] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,934, entitled “ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR IN AN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168581;

[0165] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,935, entitled “LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCKARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF ASURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168582;

[0166] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,936, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKE AMPLIFICATION FEATURES,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0168583;

[0167] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 318,996, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONSHAVING DIFFERENTCONFIGURATIONS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0297228;

[0168] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,006, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING FASTENERCAVITIES INCLUDINGFASTENER CONTROL FEATURES,” now U.S. Patent No. 10,010,324;

[0169] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 318,991, entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVERSTABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS,” now U.S. Patent No. 9,833,241;

[0170] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,004, now U.S. Patent No. 9,844,369, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0171] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,008, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORMFASTENERS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0297232;

[0172] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 318,997, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0297229, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLETISSUE ENGAGINGMEMBERS”;

[0173] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,002, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUECONTROL FEATURES,” now U.S. Patent No. 9,877,721;

[0174] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,013, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLERETAINER COVERARRANGEMENTS,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0297233; and

[0175] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,016, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYERATTACHED THERETO,” U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015-0297235.

[0176] The applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0177] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,775, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES”;

[0178] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,807, entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES";

[0179] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,834, entitled “STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME”;

[0180] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,788, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVENSTAPLES”; and

[0181] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,818, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS."

[0182] The applicant of the present application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0183] - U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 569,218, entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER”;

[0184] - U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 569,227, entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER”;

[0185] - U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 569,259, entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE”; and

[0186] - U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 569,264, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE."

[0187] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on April 1, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0188] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,325, entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM";

[0189] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,321, entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY";

[0190] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,326, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ADISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD”;

[0191] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,263, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIPPORTION”;

[0192] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,262, entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT SYSTEM";

[0193] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,277, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVILCONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER";

[0194] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,296, entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL ENDEFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS";

[0195] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,258, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION”;

[0196] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,278, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE CUTTING OF TISSUE”;

[0197] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,284, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT”;

[0198] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,295, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSION LOCKOUT”;

[0199] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,300, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT";

[0200] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,196, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT”;

[0201] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,203, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT”;

[0202] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,210, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT”;

[0203] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,324, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM”;

[0204] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,335, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS”;

[0205] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,339, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT”;

[0206] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,253, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OF STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS";

[0207] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,304, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AGROOVED FORMING POCKET”;

[0208] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,331, entitled “ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS”;

[0209] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,336, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES”;

[0210] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,312, entitled “CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ANINCISABLE TISSUESUPPORT”;

[0211] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,309, entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARYFIRING SYSTEM"; and

[0212] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,349, entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOADCONTROL."

[0213] The applicant of the present application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on December 31, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0214] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,488, entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERYPACK FAILURE INPOWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0215] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,525, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS"; and

[0216] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,552, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUITS."

[0217] The applicant of the present application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on February 9, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0218] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,220, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING ANDAXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR";

[0219] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,228, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0220] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,196, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT";

[0221] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,206, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO ANELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY";

[0222] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,215, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0223] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,227, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATION LINK ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0224] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,235, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLE DRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS”;

[0225] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,230, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAMARRANGEMENTS"; and

[0226] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKER EDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS."

[0227] The applicant of the present application also owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on February 12, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0228] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,254, entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0229] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,259, entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0230] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,275, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS"; and

[0231] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,289 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS."

[0232] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on June 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0233] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,925, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAWOPENING ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0234] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,941, entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAMACTUATED JAW CLOSING FEATURES”;

[0235] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,914, entitled “MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0236] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,900, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAMSTRUCTURES WITH CENTERFIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT";

[0237] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,885, entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICALINSTRUMENTS"; and

[0238] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,876 entitled "PUSH / PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS."

[0239] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on March 6, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0240] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,746, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256184, entitled “POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0241] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,795, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 02561185, entitled “MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0242] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,832, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256154, entitled “ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURE RATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES”;

[0243] -Named "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF)

[0244] ELECTRODE SYSTEM TO MEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION” U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,935, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256071;

[0245] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,831, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256153, entitled “MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTOR FOR POWERED SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0246] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,859, entitled “TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINESTABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTICELEMENTS OF MEASURES”,

[0247] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256187;

[0248] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,817, entitled "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,"

[0249] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256186;

[0250] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,844, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256155, entitled “CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULARSHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE”;

[0251] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,837, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256163, entitled “SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING”;

[0252] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,765, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256160, entitled “SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF ASTAPLE CARTRIDGEINTO A SURGICAL STAPLER”;

[0253] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,799, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256162, entitled “SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEMPOSITIONED ON AROTATABLE SHAFT”; and

[0254] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,780, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLEBATTERY HOUSING,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256161.

[0255] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on February 27, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0256] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,576, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249919, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING ANINSPECTION STATION”;

[0257] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,546, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249915, entitled “SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND”;

[0258] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,560, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249910, entitled “SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND / OR CONDITIONS ONE ORMORE BATTERIES”;

[0259] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,566, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249918, entitled “CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCYRESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY”;

[0260] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,555, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249916, entitled “SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICALINSTRUMENT NEEDS TOBE SERVICED”;

[0261] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,542, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249908, entitled “REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0262] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,548, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249909, entitled “POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0263] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,526, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249945, entitled “ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE”;

[0264] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,541, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249927, entitled “MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY”; and

[0265] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,562, entitled “SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFEPARAMETER”,

[0266] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249917.

[0267] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on December 18, 2014 and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0268] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,478, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174977, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING ANARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR AND MEANS FORADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER”;

[0269] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,483, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174969, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS”;

[0270] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,139, entitled “DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”,

[0271] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174978;

[0272] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,148, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174976, entitled “LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL ENDEFFECTORS”;

[0273] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,130, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174972, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLEABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLEAXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE;

[0274] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,143, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVEDCLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS”,

[0275] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174983;

[0276] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,117, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174975, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORTARRANGEMENTS”;

[0277] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,154, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174973, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORTARRANGEMENTS”;

[0278] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,493, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174970, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING AFLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM”; and

[0279] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,500, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING ALOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174971.

[0280] The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on March 1, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0281] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,295, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246471, entitled “Articulatable Surgical Instruments With Conductive Pathways For Signal Communication”;

[0282] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,323, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246472, entitled “Rotary Powered Articulation Joints For Surgical Instruments”;

[0283] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,338, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0249557, entitled “Thumbwheel Switch Arrangements For Surgical Instruments”;

[0284] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,499, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,358,003, entitled “Electromechanical Surgical Device with Signal Relay Arrangement”;

[0285] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,460, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246478, entitled “Multiple Processor Motor Control for Modular Surgical Instruments”;

[0286] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,358, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,326,767, entitled “JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0287] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,481, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,468,438, entitled “Sensor Straightened End Effector During Removal Through Trocar”;

[0288] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,518, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246475, entitled “Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with Removable Implement Portions”;

[0289] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,375, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,398,911, entitled “Rotary Powered Surgical Instruments With Multiple Degrees of Freedom”; and

[0290] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,536, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,307,986, entitled "Surgical Instrument Soft Stop."

[0291] 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:

[0292] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,097, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263542, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE”;

[0293] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,193, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,332,987, entitled “CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0294] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,053, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263564, entitled “INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USEWITH A SURGICALIN STRUMENT”;

[0295] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK”;

[0296] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,210, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263538, entitled “SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTEPOSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0297] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,148, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263554, entitled “MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0298] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,066, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263565, entitled “DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FORMODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0299] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,117, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,351,726, entitled “ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0300] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,130, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 9,351,727, entitled “DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FORMODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”; and

[0301] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,159, entitled “METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICALINSTRUMENT,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0277017.

[0302] 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:

[0303] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 200,111, entitled “CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263539.

[0304] 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:

[0305] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,106, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272582, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0306] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,099, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272581, entitled “STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT”;

[0307] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,094, entitled “VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES / PROCEDURE COUNT,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272580;

[0308] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,117, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272574, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL”;

[0309] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,075, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272579, entitled “MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES”;

[0310] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,093, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272569, entitled “FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0311] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,116, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272571, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSORADAPTATION”;

[0312] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,071, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272578, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR”;

[0313] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,097, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272570, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS”;

[0314] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,126, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272572, entitled “INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0315] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,133, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272557, entitled “MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM”;

[0316] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,081, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0277471, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING ASEGMENTED CIRCUIT”;

[0317] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,076, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0280424, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION”;

[0318] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,111, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272583, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM”;

[0319] as well as

[0320] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,125, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLESHAFT,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0280384.

[0321] The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on September 5, 2014 and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0322] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,103, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066912, entitled “CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICALD EVICE”;

[0323] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,119, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066914, entitled “ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TOQUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION”;

[0324] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 478,908, entitled “MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION,”

[0325] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066910;

[0326] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 478,895, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066909, entitled “MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION”;

[0327] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,110, entitled "POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECTMISLOADED CARTRIDGE,"

[0328] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066915;

[0329] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,098, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066911, entitled “SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION”;

[0330] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,115, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066916, entitled “MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE”; and

[0331] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,108, entitled “LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066913.

[0332] The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 9, 2014 and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0333] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,590, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305987, entitled “MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVESHAFTS”;

[0334] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,581, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305989, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSINGDRIVE AND A FIRINGDRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAMEROTATABLE OUTPUT”;

[0335] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,595, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLINGTHE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT,"

[0336] Now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305988;

[0337] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,588, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0309666, entitled “POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER”;

[0338] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,591, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305991, entitled “TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0339] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,584, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305994, entitled “MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENTFEATURES FOR ALIGNINGROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTORSHAFTS”;

[0340] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,587, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0309665, entitled “POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER”;

[0341] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,586, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305990, entitled “DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR ASURGICAL INSTRUMENT”; and

[0342] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,607, entitled “MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305992.

[0343] 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:

[0344] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,365, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR”;

[0345] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,376, entitled “LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER”;

[0346] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,382, entitled “LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP”;

[0347] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,385, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLEACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL"; and

[0348] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,372, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR."

[0349] Many specific details are listed herein to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and shown in the drawings. Well-known operations, parts, and elements are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and shown herein are non-limiting examples, so that it can be recognized that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein can be representative and illustrative. These embodiments can be modified and changed without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0350] The terms "comprise" (and any form of "comprise", such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of "have", 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 linking verbs. Thus, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," 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, device, or apparatus 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.

[0351] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein relative 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 positioned 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 conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and / or absolute.

[0352] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate 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. Continuing to refer 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 cavity, through an incision or puncture formed in the tissue, etc. The working portion or end effector portion of the instrument can be inserted directly into the patient's body or can be inserted through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument can be advanced.

[0353] The surgical stapling system may include an axis and an end effector extending from the axis. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge can be inserted into the first jaw and can be removed from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the staple cartridge cannot be removed from the first jaw or can at least be easily replaced from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform the staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw can pivot about a closed axis relative to the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the first jaw can pivot relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system also includes an articulated joint configured to allow the end effector to rotate or articulate relative to the axis. The end effector can be rotated about an articulated axis extending through the articulated joint. Other embodiments are envisioned that do not include an articulated joint.

[0354] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body comprises a proximal end, a distal end and a platform extending between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of a tissue to be sutured, and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil moves toward the staple cartridge to compress the tissue and clamp it against the platform. The staples removably stored in the cartridge body can then be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body comprises a staple cavity defined therein, wherein the staples are removably stored in the staple cavity. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot, and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples are also possible.

[0355] The nail is supported by a nail driver in the magazine body. The driver can move between a first or non-firing position and a second or firing position to eject the nail from the nail magazine. The driver is retained in the magazine body by a retainer, which extends around the bottom of the magazine body and includes elastic members that are configured to grip the magazine body and hold the retainer to the magazine body. The driver can move between its non-firing position and its firing position by a slide. The slide can move between a proximal position adjacent to the proximal end and a distal position adjacent to the distal end. The slide includes a plurality of ramp surfaces that are configured to slide under the driver toward the anvil and lift the driver, and the nail is supported on the driver.

[0356] In addition to the above, the slider is also moved distally by the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider and push the slider toward the distal end. The longitudinal slot defined in the magazine body is configured to receive the 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. As the firing member is advanced distally, the first cam and the second cam can control the distance or tissue gap between the platform of the nail magazine and the anvil. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut into the tissue captured between the nail magazine and the anvil. It is desired that the knife is positioned at least partially close to the ramp surface so that the nail is ejected before the knife.

[0357] Figure 1 and Figure 3 A reusable or non-reusable motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument 1010 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument 1010 includes a previous housing 1012, which includes a handle 1014 configured to be grasped, manipulated and actuated by a clinician. The housing 1012 is configured to be operably attached to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200, which has a surgical end effector 1300 operably coupled thereto, which is configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or surgical procedures. Continuing to refer to this detailed description, it will be understood that the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can also be effectively used in conjunction with a robotically controlled surgical system. Therefore, the term "housing" can also cover a housing or similar portion of a robotic system that houses or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system, which is configured to generate and apply at least one control action that can be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their corresponding equivalents. In addition, various components can be "housed" or contained in the housing, or various components can be "associated" with the housing. In such instances, the components may not be housed within or directly supported by the housing.

[0358] The term "frame" may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument. The term "frame" may also refer to a portion of a robotically controlled surgical instrument and / or a portion of a robotic system that can be used to operably control a surgical instrument. For example, the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein may be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLESTAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0359] Figure 1 The previous housing 1012 is shown in conjunction with the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 ( Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 ), the interchangeable shaft assembly includes an end effector 1300, the end effector including a surgical cutting and fastening device configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 4000 therein. The housing 1012 can be configured for use in conjunction with an interchangeable shaft assembly, the interchangeable shaft assembly including an end effector adapted to support staple cartridges of different sizes and types, and the interchangeable shaft assembly has different shaft lengths, sizes and types, etc. In addition, the housing 1012 can also be effectively used in a variety of other interchangeable shaft assemblies, including those components configured to apply other actions and forms of energy (such as, for example, radio frequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy and / or action) to an end effector arrangement suitable for use in conjunction with a variety of surgical applications and surgeries. In addition, the end effector, shaft assembly, handle, surgical instrument and / or surgical instrument system can utilize any suitable fastener to fasten tissue. For example, a fastener cartridge including a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein can be removably inserted into and / or attached to the end effector of the shaft assembly.

[0360] Figure 1 A surgical instrument 1010 is shown that includes an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably coupled to a housing 1012 . Figure 2 The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is shown disengaged from the housing 1012 or the handle 1014. Figure 3As can be seen in the figure, the handle 1014 can include a pair of interconnectable handle housing segments 1016 and 1018, which can be interconnected by means of screws, snap features, adhesives, etc. In the illustrated arrangement, the handle housing segments 1016 and 1018 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 1019 that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As will be discussed in further detail below, the handle 1014 operably supports a plurality of drive systems therein that are configured to generate and apply various control actions to corresponding portions of an interchangeable shaft assembly operably attached thereto.

[0361] See now Figure 3 , the handle 1014 may also include a frame 1020 that operably supports a plurality of drive systems. For example, the frame 1020 may operably support a "first" or closed drive system, generally designated 1030, that may be used to apply closing and opening motions to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 that is operably attached or coupled thereto. In at least one form, the closed drive system 1030 may include an actuator in the form of a closed trigger 1032 that is pivotally supported by the frame 1020. More specifically, as Figure 3 As shown, the closing trigger 1032 is pivotally connected to the housing 1014 via a pin 1033. Such an arrangement structure enables the closing trigger 1032 to be manipulated by the clinician so that when the clinician grasps the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle portion 1014, the closing trigger 1032 can be easily pivoted from the starting or "unactuated" position to the "actuated" position, and more specifically, to the fully compressed or fully actuated position. The closing trigger 1032 can be biased to the unactuated position by a spring or other biasing arrangement structure (not shown). In various forms, the closing drive system 1030 also includes a closing connection assembly 1034 pivotally connected to the closing trigger 1032. As shown in FIG. Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the closure connection assembly 1034 may include a first closure connection 1036 and a second closure connection 1038 pivotably coupled to the closure trigger 1032 via a pin 1035. The second closure connection 1038 may also be referred to herein as an "attachment member" and includes a transverse attachment pin 1037.

[0362] Still see Figure 3, it can be observed that the first closure link 1036 may have a locking wall or locking end 1039 thereon, which is configured to cooperate with a closure release assembly 1060 pivotally coupled to the frame 1020. In at least one form, the closure release assembly 1060 may include a release button assembly 1062 having a distally protruding locking pawl 1064 formed thereon. The release button assembly 1062 may be pivoted in a counterclockwise direction by a release spring (not shown). When the clinician presses the closure trigger 1032 from its unactuated position toward the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the first closure link 1036 pivots upward to a point where the locking pawl 1064 falls into engagement with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036, thereby preventing the closure trigger 1032 from returning to the unactuated position. Therefore, the closure release assembly 1060 is used to lock the closure trigger 1032 in the fully actuated position. When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 1032 to allow it to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician simply pivots the closure release button assembly 1062 so that the locking pawl 1064 moves out of engagement with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036. When the locking pawl 1064 has moved out of engagement with the first closure link 1036, the closure trigger 1032 can be pivoted back to the unactuated position. Other closure trigger locking and release arrangements may also be employed.

[0363] The arm 1061 may extend from the closure release button 1062. A magnetic element 1063, such as a permanent magnet, may be mounted to the arm 1061, for example. When the closure release button 1062 is rotated from its first position to its second position, the magnetic element 1063 may move toward the circuit board 1100. The circuit board 1100 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the movement of the magnetic element 1063. In at least one embodiment, for example, a "Hall Effect" sensor (not shown) may be mounted to the bottom surface of the circuit board 1100. The Hall Effect sensor may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field surrounding the Hall Effect sensor caused by the movement of the magnetic element 1063. The Hall Effect sensor may communicate signals with, for example, a microcontroller, which may determine whether the closure release button 1062 is in its first position associated with the unactuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and the open configuration of the end effector, its second position associated with the actuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and the closed configuration of the end effector, and / or any position between the first position and the second position.

[0364] In at least one form, the handle 1014 and frame 1020 operably support another drive system, referred to herein as a firing drive system 1080, which is configured to apply a firing action to a corresponding portion of an interchangeable shaft assembly attached thereto. The firing drive system 1080 may also be referred to herein as a "second drive system." The firing drive system 1080 may employ an electric motor 1082 positioned in the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014. In various forms, the motor 1082 may be, for example, a DC brushed drive motor having a maximum speed of approximately 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 1082 may be powered by a power source 1090, which, in one form, may include a removable power pack 1092. As Figure 3 As can be seen, for example, the power pack 1092 may include a proximal housing portion 1094 that is configured to be attached to a distal housing portion 1096. The proximal housing portion 1094 and the distal housing portion 1096 are configured to be able to operably support a plurality of batteries 1098 therein. The batteries 1098 may each include, for example, a lithium ion ("LI") or other suitable battery. The distal housing portion 1096 is configured to be operably attached to a circuit board assembly 1100 that is also operably coupled to the motor 1082 in a removable manner. A plurality of batteries 1098 that can be connected in series can be used as a power source for the surgical instrument 1010. In addition, the power source 1090 can be replaceable and / or rechargeable.

[0365] As outlined above with respect to the other various forms, the electric motor 1082 may include a rotatable shaft (not shown) operably interfaced with a gear reducer assembly 1084, which is mounted in meshing engagement with a set or rack of drive teeth 1122 on a drive member 1120 capable of longitudinal movement. In use, the polarity of the voltage provided by the power source 1090 can operate the electric motor 1082 in a clockwise direction, wherein the polarity of the voltage applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed so as to operate the electric motor 1082 in a counterclockwise direction. When the electric motor 1082 rotates in one direction, the drive member 1120 will be axially driven in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 82 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the drive member 1120 will be axially driven in the proximal direction "PD". The handle 1014 may include a switch that can be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 1082 by the power source 1090. As with other forms described herein, the handle 1014 can further include a sensor configured to detect the position of the drive member 1120 and / or the direction in which the drive member 1120 is moving.

[0366] Actuation of the motor 1082 can be controlled by a firing trigger 1130 that is pivotally supported on the handle 1014. The firing trigger 1130 can pivot between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firing trigger 1130 can be biased to the unactuated position by a spring 1132 or other biasing structure, so that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 1130, the firing trigger can be pivoted or otherwise returned to the unactuated position by the spring 1132 or the biasing structure. In at least one form, the firing trigger 1130 can be positioned "outside" of the closing trigger 132, as discussed above. In at least one form, the firing trigger safety button 1134 can be pivotally mounted to the closing trigger 1032 by a pin 1035. The safety button 1134 can be positioned between the firing trigger 1130 and the closing trigger 1032 and have a pivot arm 1136 protruding therefrom. See Fig.21 When the closure trigger 1032 is in the unactuated position, the safety button 1134 is housed in the handle 1014 and may not be easily accessible to the clinician and cannot be moved between a safety position that prevents actuation of the firing trigger 1130 and a firing position in which the firing trigger 1130 can be fired. When the clinician presses the closure trigger 1032, the safety button 1134 and the firing trigger 1130 pivot downward and can then be manipulated by the clinician.

[0367] As described above, in at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 has teeth 1122 of a rack formed thereon for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear 1086 of the gear reducer assembly 1084. At least one form also includes a manually actuatable "panic" assembly 1140 that is configured to enable a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 in the event that the motor 1082 becomes inoperable. The panic assembly 1140 may include a lever or panic handle assembly 1142 that is configured to be manually pivoted into ratcheting engagement with teeth 1124 also disposed in the drive member 1120. Thus, the clinician may manually retract the drive member 1120 using the panic handle assembly 1142 to ratchet the drive member 1120 in the proximal direction "PD". US Patent No. 8,608,045, entitled "POWEREDSURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM," discloses emergency structures and other components, arrangements, and systems that may also be used with the various apparatus disclosed herein. US Patent No. 8,608,045 is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0368] Now go to Figure 2and Figure 5 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a surgical end effector 1300 including an elongated channel 1310 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 4000 therein. The end effector 1300 may further include an anvil 2000 pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 1310. The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulation joint 3020 and an articulation lock 2140 that may be configured to releasably retain the end effector 1300 in a desired position relative to the shaft axis SA. Examples of various features of at least one form of the end effector 1300, the articulation joint 3020, and an articulation lock may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 803,086, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK.” The entire disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 803,086, filed on Mar. 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK,” is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include a proximal housing or nozzle 1201 comprised of nozzle portions 1202 and 1203 .

[0369] The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include a closure system or closure member assembly 3000 that can be used to close and / or open the anvil 2000 of the end effector 1300. The shaft assembly 1200 may include a spine 1210 that is configured to: first, slidably support a firing member therein; and second, slidably support a closure member assembly 3000 extending around the spine 1210. As shown in Figure 51310, the distal end 1211 of the ridge 1210 terminates in an upper lug mounting feature 1270 and a lower lug mounting feature 1280. The upper lug mounting feature 1270 has a lug slot 1272 formed therein that is adapted to mountingly support an upper mounting link 1274 therein. Similarly, the lower lug mounting feature 1280 has a lug slot 1282 formed therein that is adapted to mountingly support a lower mounting link 1284 therein. The upper mounting link 1274 includes a pivot bearing socket 1276 therein that is adapted to rotatably receive a pivot pin 1292 therein that is formed on a channel cover or anvil retainer 1290 attached to a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. The lower mounting link 1284 includes a lower pivot pin 1286 adapted to be received within a pivot hole 1314 formed in a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. Figure 5 The lower pivot pin 1286 is vertically aligned with the pivot bearing socket 1276 to define an articulation axis AA about which the surgical end effector 1300 can be articulated relative to the shaft axis SA. Figure 2 .

[0370] In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 1300 can be selectively articulated about an articulation axis AA by an articulation system 2100. In one form, the articulation system 2100 includes a proximal articulation driver 2102 pivotally coupled to an articulation link 2120. Figure 53020, an offset attachment lug 2114 is formed on the distal end 2112 of the proximal articulation driver 2102. A pivot hole 2116 is formed in the offset attachment lug 2114 and is configured to pivotally receive therein a proximal connector pin 2124 formed on the proximal end 2122 of the articulation link 3020. The distal end 2126 of the articulation link 2120 includes a pivot hole 2128 that is configured to pivotally receive therein a channel pin 1317 formed on the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. Thus, axial movement of the proximal articulation driver 2102 will thereby impart an articulation action to the elongated channel 1310, thereby causing the surgical end effector 1300 to articulate relative to the spine assembly 1210 about the articulation axis AA. Further details regarding the construction and operation of the articulation system 2100 may be found in various references incorporated herein by reference, including U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 635,631, filed Jun. 28, 2017, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITHAXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. In various circumstances, when the proximal articulation driver 2102 is not moving in the proximal or distal direction, the proximal articulation driver 2102 may be held in place by an articulation lock 2140. Additional details regarding examples of an articulation lock 2140 may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 635,631 and other references incorporated herein by reference.

[0371] In various circumstances, the spine 1210 can include a proximal end 1211 that is rotatably supported in the base 1240. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1211 of the spine 1210 has threads 1214 formed thereon for threaded attachment to a spine bearing 1216 that is configured to be supported within the base 1240. Figure 4 Such an arrangement facilitates rotatably attaching the spine 1210 to the base 1240 such that the spine 1210 can be selectively rotated relative to the base 1240 about the shaft axis SA.

[0372] Main references Figure 4 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a closure shuttle 1250 that is slidably supported within the base 1240 so that the closure shuttle moves axially relative to the base. The closure shuttle 1250 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1252 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3), the attachment pin being attached to the second closure connector 1038, as will be discussed in further detail below. In at least one example, the closure member assembly 3000 includes a proximal closure member segment 3010 having a proximal end 3012 that is coupled to the closure shuttle 1250 for rotation relative to the closure shuttle. For example, the U-shaped connector 1263 is inserted into the annular slot 3014 in the proximal end 3012 of the proximal closure member segment 3010 and retained within the vertical slot 1253 in the closure shuttle 1250. Such an arrangement is used to attach the proximal closure tube segment 3010 to the closure shuttle 1250 for axial travel with the closure shuttle while enabling the proximal closure tube segment 3010 to rotate about the shaft axis SA relative to the closure shuttle 1250. A closing spring 1268 is journaled on the proximal closure tube segment 3010 and is used to bias the proximal closure tube segment 3010 in the proximal direction "PD" and can be used to pivot the closure trigger 1032 to an unactuated position when the shaft assembly is operably coupled to the handle 1014.

[0373] In at least one form, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include an articulation joint 3020. However, other interchangeable shaft assemblies may not be able to articulate. Figure 5 As can be seen, for example, a distal closure member or distal closure tube segment 3030 is coupled to a distal end of a proximal closure member or proximal closure tube segment 3010. The articulation joint 3020 includes a dual pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022. According to various forms, the dual pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022 includes an end effector closure tube 3050 having a distally protruding upper shank 3052 and a lower shank 3054. An upper dual pivot connection 3056 includes an upwardly protruding distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that respectively engage an upper distal pin hole in the proximally protruding upper shank 3052 and an upper proximal pin hole in the distally protruding upper shank 3032 on the distal closure tube segment 3030. The lower dual pivot connection 3058 includes an upwardly projecting distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that respectively engage a lower distal pin hole in the proximally projecting lower shank 3054 and a lower proximal pin hole in the distally projecting lower shank 3034. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As will be discussed in further detail below, the closure tube assembly 3000 translates distally (direction "DD") to close the anvil 2000, for example, in response to actuation of the closure trigger 1032. The anvil 2000 is opened by translating the closure tube assembly 3000 proximally, which causes the end effector closure sleeve to interface with the anvil 2000 and pivot it to the open position.

[0374] As also described above, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 also includes a firing member 1900 that is supported for axial travel within the shaft spine 1210. The firing member includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 configured to be attached to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 1910. The intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 may include a longitudinal slot 1223 in its distal end that may be configured to receive a tab 1912 on the proximal end of the distal knife bar 1910. The longitudinal slot 1223 and the proximal end tab 1912 may be sized and configured to allow relative movement between the longitudinal slot and the proximal end tab and may include a sliding joint. The sliding joint 1914 may allow the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the firing drive to move to allow the end effector 1300 to articulate without moving the knife bar 1910 or at least substantially moving the knife bar 1910. Once the end effector 1300 has been properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 can be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1223 contacts the tab 1912 to advance the knife bar 1910 and fire the staple cartridge 4000 positioned within the channel 1310. The knife bar 1910 includes a knife portion 1920 including a blade or tissue cutting edge 1922 and includes an upper anvil engaging tab 1924 and a lower channel engaging tab 1926. Various firing member configurations and operations are disclosed in various other references incorporated herein by reference.

[0375] like Figure 4As can be seen in the figure, the shaft assembly 1200 also includes a switching barrel 1500 rotatably received on the closing tube 1260. The switching barrel 1500 includes a hollow shaft segment 1502 having a shaft boss formed thereon for receiving an outwardly protruding actuating pin therein. In various cases, the actuating pin extends through the slot into a longitudinal slot provided in the locking sleeve to facilitate axial movement of the locking sleeve when the locking sleeve is engaged with the joint motion driver. The rotating torsion spring 1420 is configured to engage a boss on the switching barrel 1500 and a portion of the nozzle housing 1203 to apply a biasing force to the switching barrel 1500. The switching barrel 1500 may also include an at least partially circumferential opening 1506 defined therein, which may be configured to receive a circumferential mount extending from the nozzle halves 1202, 1203 and allow relative rotation between the switching barrel 1500 and the proximal nozzle 1201 but not translation. The mount also extends through an opening 3011 in the proximal closure tube segment 3010 to be seated in the recess 1219 in the spine shaft 1210. Rotation of the switch barrel 1500 about the shaft axis SA will ultimately cause the actuation pin and the locking sleeve to rotate between their engaged and disengaged positions. In one configuration, the rotation of the switch barrel 1500 can be associated with the axial advancement of the closure tube or closure member. Thus, actuation of the closure system can essentially operably engage and disengage the articulation drive system with the firing drive system in various ways as further described in detail in the following documents: U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, and U.S. Patent No. 9,913,642, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ASENSOR SYSTEM", the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. For example, when the closure tube is in its most proximal position corresponding to the "jaw open" position, the closure tube segment 3010 will have positioned the switch cartridge 1500 so as to connect the articulation system to the firing drive system. When the closure tube has moved to its distal position corresponding to the "jaw closed" position, the closure tube has rotated the switch cartridge 1500 to a position in which the articulation system is disconnected from the firing drive system.

[0376] Likewise Figure 4As shown, the shaft assembly 1200 may include a slip ring assembly 1600, for example, the slip ring assembly may be configured to conduct power to and / or from the end effector 1300, and / or transmit signals to and / or receive signals from the end effector 1300. The slip ring assembly 1600 may include a proximal connector flange 1604 and a distal connector flange, the proximal connector flange being mounted to a base flange 1242 extending from a base 1240, and the distal connector flange being positioned in a slot defined in the shaft housing. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include a first face, and the distal connector flange may include a second face, the second face being positioned adjacent to the first face and being movable relative to the first face. The distal connector flange may rotate relative to the proximal connector flange 1604 about the shaft axis SA. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include a plurality of concentric or at least substantially concentric conductors defined in its first face. The connector can be mounted on the proximal side of the connector flange and can have a plurality of contacts, wherein each contact corresponds to and is in electrical contact with one of the conductors. Such a structure allows relative rotation between the proximal connector flange 1604 and the distal connector flange while maintaining electrical contact between the two flanges. For example, the proximal connector flange 1604 can include an electrical connector 1606 that allows the conductors to communicate signals with a shaft circuit board 1610 mounted to the shaft base 1240. In at least one example, a wiring harness including a plurality of conductors can extend between the electrical connector 1606 and the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1606 can extend proximally through a connector opening 1243 defined in the base mounting flange 1242. See Figure 4 More details about the slip ring assembly 1600 can be found, for example, in U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086, U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 800,067, filed on March 13, 2013, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGETISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM," and U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM." U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086, U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 800,067, and U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481 are each hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0377] As discussed above, the shaft assembly 1200 may include a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal portion being fixedly mounted to the handle 1014, the distal portion being capable of rotating about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portion may rotate relative to the proximal portion around the slip ring assembly 1600 as discussed above. The distal connector flange of the slip ring assembly 1600 may be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. Moreover, in addition to the above, the switch barrel 1500 may also be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. When the rotatable distal shaft portion rotates, the distal connector flange and the switch barrel 1500 may rotate synchronously with each other. In addition, the switch barrel 1500 may rotate between a first position and a second position relative to the distal connector flange. When the switch barrel 1500 is in its first position, the articulation drive system may be operably disengaged from the firing drive system, and therefore, the operation of the firing drive system may not cause the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200 to articulate. When the switch barrel 1500 is in its second position, the articulation drive system can be operably engaged with the firing drive system, so that operation of the firing drive system can cause the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200 to articulate. When the switch barrel 1500 moves between its first position and its second position, the switch barrel 1500 moves relative to the distal connector flange. In various examples, the shaft assembly 1200 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of the switch barrel 1500.

[0378] See again Figure 4 , the base 1240 includes at least one, preferably two, tapered attachment portions 1244 formed thereon that are adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail slots 1702 formed within the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. See Figure 3 Each dovetail slot 1702 may be tapered, or in other words, may be slightly V-shaped, so as to receive the attachment portion 1244 therein in a seated manner. Fig. 22 As further seen in the figure, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate firing shaft 1222. As will be discussed in further detail below, when the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is coupled to the handle 1014, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is received in the firing shaft attachment bracket 1126 formed in the distal end 1125 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Figure 3 .

[0379] Various shaft assembly embodiments employ a latch system 1710 for removably coupling the shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012 and more specifically to the frame 1020. Figure 4As can be seen, for example, in at least one form, the latch system 1710 includes a locking member or locking yoke 1712 that is movably connected to the base 1240. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the locking yoke 1712 is U-shaped and has two spaced-apart and downwardly extending legs 1714. The legs 1714 each have a pivot lug 1715 formed thereon that is adapted to be received in a corresponding hole 1245 formed in the base 1240. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of the locking yoke 1712 to the base 1240. The locking yoke 1712 may include two proximally projecting locking lugs 1716 that are configured to releasably engage with corresponding locking detents or recesses 1704 in the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020. See. Figure 3 . In various forms, the locking yoke 1712 is biased in the proximal direction by a spring or biasing member (not shown). Actuation of the locking yoke 1712 can be achieved by a latch button 1722, which is slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1720 mounted on the base 1240. The latch button 1722 can be biased in the proximal direction relative to the locking yoke 1712. As will be discussed in further detail below, the locking yoke 1712 can be moved to an unlocked position by biasing the latch button in the distal direction, which also causes the locking yoke 1712 to pivot out of engagement with the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020. When the locking yoke 1712 is "engaged" with the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020, the locking lug 1716 remains seated in the corresponding locking pawl or groove 1704 in the distal attachment flange 1700.

[0380] When using an interchangeable shaft assembly including an end effector of the type described herein suitable for cutting and fastening tissue, as well as other types of end effectors, it may be advantageous to prevent the interchangeable shaft assembly from inadvertently disengaging from the housing during actuation of the end effector. For example, in use, a clinician may actuate a closure trigger 1032 to grasp the target tissue and manipulate it to a desired position. Once the target tissue is positioned in the end effector 1300 in a desired orientation, the clinician may fully actuate the closure trigger 1032 to close the anvil 1306 and clamp the target tissue in place for cutting and suturing. In this example, the first drive system 1030 has been fully actuated. After the target tissue has been clamped in the end effector 1300, it may be advantageous to prevent the shaft assembly 1200 from inadvertently disengaging from the housing 1012. A form of the latch system 1710 is configured to prevent such inadvertent disengagement.

[0381] like Figure 417, the locking yoke 1712 includes at least one, preferably two, locking hooks 1718 that are adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1256 formed on the closure shuttle 1250. When the closure shuttle 1250 is in the unactuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is not actuated and the anvil 1306 is open), the locking yoke 1712 can be pivoted in the distal direction to unlock the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 from the housing 1012. In this position, the locking hooks 1718 do not contact the locking lug portions 1256 on the closure shuttle 1250. However, when the closure shuttle 1250 is moved to the actuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is actuated and the anvil 1306 is in the closed position), the locking yoke 1712 is blocked from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to pivot the locking yoke 1712 to the unlocked position, or if, for example, the locking yoke 1712 is inadvertently impacted or contacted in a manner that could otherwise cause it to pivot distally, the locking hook 1718 on the locking yoke 1712 will contact the locking lug 1256 on the closing shuttle 1250 and prevent the locking yoke 1712 from moving to the unlocked position.

[0382] The attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 will now be described. To begin the coupling process, the clinician can position the base 1240 of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 above or near the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020 so that the tapered attachment portion 1244 formed on the base 1240 is aligned with the dovetail slot 1702 in the frame 1020. The clinician can then move the shaft assembly 1200 along a mounting axis perpendicular to the shaft axis SA so that the attachment portion 1244 is seated into "operable engagement" with the corresponding dovetail receiving slot 1702. In doing so, the shaft attachment lug 1226 on the intermediate firing shaft 1222 will also be seated in the bracket 1126 of the longitudinally movable drive member 1120, and the portion of the pin 1037 on the second closure link 1038 will be seated in the corresponding hook 1252 in the closure yoke 1250. As used herein, the term "operably engaged" in the context of two components means that the two components are sufficiently engaged with each other such that the components can perform their intended actions, functions and / or procedures upon application of an actuation action thereto.

[0383] At least five systems of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can be operably coupled to at least five corresponding systems of the handle 1014. A first system can include a frame system that couples and / or aligns a frame or spine of the shaft assembly 1200 with a frame 1020 of the handle 1014. Another system can include a closure drive system 1030 that can operably connect a closure trigger 1032 of the handle 1014 to a closure tube 1260 and anvil 2000 of the shaft assembly 1200. As outlined above, the closure tube attachment yoke 1250 of the shaft assembly 1200 can engage with a pin 1037 on a second closure connector 1038. Another system can include a firing drive system 1080 that can operably connect a firing trigger 1130 of the handle 1014 to an intermediate firing shaft 1222 of the shaft assembly 1200. As outlined above, the shaft attachment lug 1226 can be operably connected to the bracket 1126 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Another system can include an electrical system that can: send a signal to a controller (such as a microcontroller) in the handle 1014 that the shaft assembly (such as the shaft assembly 1200) has been operably engaged with the handle 1014, and / or conduct power and / or communication signals between the shaft assembly 1200 and the handle 1014. For example, the shaft assembly 1200 may include an electrical connector 1810 operably mounted to the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1810 is configured for mating engagement with a corresponding electrical connector 1800 on the handle control board 1100. More details about the circuit system and control system can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086 and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,142, the entire disclosures of each of which have been previously incorporated herein by reference. The fifth system may consist of a latch system for releasably locking the shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 .

[0384] See now Figures 5 to 7In the illustrated example, the anvil 2000 includes an anvil body 2002 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 2010. The anvil mounting portion 2010 is movably or pivotally supported on the elongated channel 1310 so as to selectively pivot relative to the elongated channel about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA transverse to the shaft axis SA. In the illustrated arrangement, a pivot member or anvil trunnion 2012 extends laterally out of each lateral side of the anvil mounting portion 2010 to be received in a corresponding trunnion bracket 1316 formed in an upright wall 1315 of a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. The anvil trunnion 2012 is pivotally retained in its corresponding trunnion bracket 1316 by a channel cover or anvil retainer 1290. The channel cover or anvil retainer 1290 includes a pair of attachment lugs that are configured to be retained and received within corresponding lug grooves or recesses formed in the upstanding wall 1315 of the proximal end portion 1312 of the slender channel 1310.

[0385] See also Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In at least one arrangement, the distal closure member or end effector closure tube 3050 employs two axially offset proximal positive jaw opening features 3060 and distal positive jaw opening features 3062. Figure 7 In the embodiment of the present invention, the proximal positive jaw opening feature 2060 is located to the right of the shaft axis SA (as viewed by the user of the tool assembly). The positive jaw opening features 3060, 3062 are configured to interface with corresponding release areas 3064, 3066 and stepped portions formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010, as further described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 635,631, filed on June 28, 2017, entitled “SURGICALINSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Other jaw opening arrangements may be employed.

[0386] Figure 6 and Figure 7A form of an anvil 2000 is shown that includes an elongated anvil body portion 2002 that terminates in a mounting portion 2010 configured to interface with an end effector closure sleeve 3050 to minimize the amount of combined force experienced by the end effector closure tube 3050 as the anvil 2000 moves from a fully open position to a closed position and ultimately to an over-closed position. The anvil body portion 2002 includes a staple forming lower surface 2004 having a series of anvil forming recesses (not shown) formed therein. An elongated slot 2006 extends through the body portion 2002 and the mounting portion 2010 to facilitate the passage of a knife portion or "firing member" 1920 therethrough. In addition, an anvil cover 2030 is attached to the anvil body 2002 to cover the slot 2006. In various cases, the anvil mounting portion 2010 includes an anvil cam surface 2020 formed thereon. The anvil cam surface 2020 is bisected or otherwise divided by the elongated slot 2006. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030 is oriented at an angle corresponding to the angle / orientation of the anvil cam surface 2020 . Fig.10 and Fig.11 The anvil 2000 is shown in a fully open position. Fig.10 2000 is in its fully open position. When in this position, the cam surface 3072 formed on the distal end 3070 of the end effector closure tube 3050 does not apply any closing force to the cam closure surface 2020. As the end effector closure tube 3050 moves distally, the cam surface 3072 on the end effector closure tube 3050 contacts the cam closure surface 2020 on the anvil mounting portion 2010 and the corresponding closing surface 2034 on the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030 to pivot the anvil 2000 to the "closed" position. Fig.12 and Fig.13 The positions of the end effector closure tube 3050 and the anvil 2000 are shown when the anvil 2000 is in the closed position.

[0387] As the end effector closure tube 3050 continues to be advanced distally to apply additional closing action to the anvil, thereby eventually moving the anvil to an "over-closed" position, the end effector closure tube may experience significant stresses, which may occur over time, causing the end effector closure tube to become vertically elongated (when viewed from the end), or in other words, to become slightly elliptical in shape, which may eventually lead to failure or otherwise adversely affect the ability to obtain a fully closed position. It is axial, and when a thin-walled tube or cylinder is subjected to internal pressure, a "hoop" and longitudinal stress is generated in the wall of the tube. This hoop stress acts circumferentially and perpendicular to the axis and radius of the cylinder wall. Such hoop stress can be calculated as:

[0388] σ h =pd / (2t), where:

[0389] σ h = Hoop stress (MPa, psi)

[0390] p = internal pressure in the tube or cylinder (MPa, psi)

[0391] d = inner diameter of the tube or cylinder (mm, in)

[0392] t = thickness of the tube or cylinder wall (mm, in)

[0393] End effector closure tubes with various tube wall configurations have been developed. Examples of such tube configurations are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,903, filed on December 21, 2016, entitled “CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0394] Figure 8 and Fig. 9 One form of an end effector closure tube 3050 is shown. The closure tube 3050 includes an outer surface 3074 and an inner wall surface 3076. In at least one form, the closure tube 3050 includes a constant inner diameter ID and a constant outer diameter OD to define a uniform or constant wall thickness CT throughout the length of the closure tube 3050 or at least a portion of the closure tube that is configured to interface with an end effector jaw, such as an anvil 2000 and an elongated channel 1310.

[0395] Return now Fig.12In at least one arrangement structure, when the anvil 2000 is in the "closed position", when no tissue is clamped between the anvil 2000 and the magazine, a gap distance "CD" can be observed between the nail forming underside 2004 of the anvil body 2002 and the magazine platform surface of the magazine supported in the slender channel 1310. Fig.13 For along Fig.12 13-13 in FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken across the closing cam surface 2020 and through the distal end portion of the end effector closing tube 3050 and the proximal end portions of the anvil mounting portion 2020 and the elongated channel 1310. As can be seen in this figure, various closing forces CF are applied to the anvil 2000 and the elongated channel 1310 by the end effector closing tube 3050. For example, the closing force CF is applied to the closing cam surface 2020 and the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030 and to the elongated channel 1310.

[0396] exist Figures 6 to 15 In the example shown, the anvil mounting portion 2020 is formed to establish a plurality of discrete load transfer locations that are configured to be contacted by the inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050 when the end effector closure tube 3050 is in a position corresponding to the closed position of the anvil 2000. In at least one arrangement, at least two of the discrete load transfer locations are located on each side of a vertical plane VP that bisects the anvil 2000 when the anvil 2000 is in the closed position. For example, in Fig.13 3060, a first right load transfer location or edge 2070R, a second right load transfer location or edge 2072R, a third right load transfer location or edge 2074R, and a fourth right load transfer location or edge 2076R are formed on the right side of the vertical plane VP. Similarly, a first left load transfer location or edge 2070L, a second left load transfer location or edge 2072L, a third left load transfer location or edge 2074L, and a fourth left load transfer location or edge 2076L are formed on the left side of the vertical plane VP. As used in this context, the term "at least two discrete load transfer locations" means that the load transfer locations are formed relative to each other so that a space or gap is formed between the portion of the anvil mounting portion 2010 extending between the load transfer locations and the inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050.

[0397] For example, a first gap amount CR1 is formed between the inner surfaces 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050, extending between the first right load transfer location 2070R and the second right load transfer location 2072R. A second gap amount CR2 is formed between the inner surfaces of the end effector closure tube 3050, extending between the second right load transfer location 2072R and the third right load transfer location 2074R. A third gap amount CR3 is formed between the third right load transfer location 2074R and the fourth right load transfer location 2076R. A first gap amount CL1 is formed between the inner surfaces of the end effector closure tube, extending between the first left load transfer location 2070L and the second left load transfer location 2072L. A second gap amount CL2 is formed between the inner surfaces 3076 of the end effector closure tube, extending between the second left load transfer location 2072L and the third left load transfer location 2074L. A third gap amount CL3 is formed between the third left load transfer location 2074L and the fourth left load transfer location 2076L. In at least one arrangement, the closing force CF applied to the closing cam surface 2020 and the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030 can be evenly distributed between the first right load transfer location 2070R and the first left load transfer location 2070L. Similarly, the closing force CF applied to the elongated channel 1310 can be evenly distributed, for example, between the fourth right load transfer location 2076R and the fourth left load transfer location 2076L.

[0398] In at least one arrangement, at least two right load transfer locations 2070R, 2072R and at least two left load transfer locations 2070L, 2072L are located on one side of a horizontal plane HP that bisects the end effector 1300. Fig.13 As shown, the two right load transfer positions 2070R, 2072R are located on a side of the vertical plane VP opposite to the two left load transfer positions 2070L, 2072L. Also in at least one arrangement structure, the third right load transfer position 2074R and the fourth right load transfer position 2076R are located on a side of the horizontal plane HP opposite to the first right load transfer position 2070R and the second right load transfer position 2072R. Similarly, the third left load transfer position 2074L and the fourth left load transfer position 2076L are located on a side of the horizontal plane HP opposite to the first left load transfer position 2070L and the second left load transfer position 2072L. The right load transfer positions 2074R, 2076R are located on a side of the vertical plane VP opposite to the two left load transfer positions 2074L, 2076L. As shown Figure 6 and Fig.10As can be seen in FIG. 2 , the load transfer location can be formed by scalloped or relieved areas 2080, 2082, 2084 such that the load transfer location includes a corner formed by abutting surfaces. Other load transfer location shapes are contemplated.

[0399] Fig.14 and Fig.15 The anvil 2000 and the end effector closure tube 3050 are shown in an "over-closed" state, which is produced when the end effector closure tube 3050 is further advanced distally after the anvil 2000 has reached the closed position. In at least one example, the anvil 2000 is in an "over-closed state" when the distal end portion 2003 of the main body portion 2002 of the anvil 2000 contacts the cartridge deck of the staple cartridge operably supported by the elongated channel 1310. See Fig.14 Continued distal advancement of the end effector closure tube 3050 after the anvil 2000 has reached the closed position may significantly increase the hoop stresses formed in the end effector closure tube 3050, which may result in total failure or vertical elongation of the end effector closure tube, which may adversely affect proper closure of the anvil when used in future applications. Fig.15 As shown, the first right gap amount CR1 and the first left gap amount CL1 may each have a gap width CW1 located on a common side of the horizontal plane HP. The second right gap amount CR2 and the second left gap amount CL2 each span the horizontal plane HP. In other words, a portion of the second right gap amount CR2 is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP, and a portion of the second left gap amount CL2 is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP.

[0400] The formation of at least two discrete load transfer locations on each side of a vertical plane can reduce the amount of harmful hoop stresses formed in the end effector closure tube 3050 when the end effector closure tube 3050 moves distally to the over-closed position. The formation of at least three discrete load transfer locations on each side of a vertical plane can also reduce the amount of harmful hoop stresses formed in the end effector closure tube when the end effector closure tube 3050 moves distally to the over-closed position. The formation of at least four discrete load transfer locations on each side of a vertical plane can also reduce the amount of harmful hoop stresses formed in the end effector closure tube when the end effector closure tube 3050 moves distally to the over-closed position. Such an arrangement enables the end effector closure tube 3050 to be made with a constant wall thickness as described above, which can reduce the manufacturing costs associated with manufacturing the end effector closure tube.

[0401] Figures 16 to 22 An alternative anvil 2000' is shown which is substantially the same as the anvil 2000 described above except for the differences described below. Fig.16As can be seen in FIG. 2 , the anvil mounting portion 2010 ′ is formed with a continuous arcuate anvil camming surface 2020 ′ that is not interrupted by any load transfer location. Fig.17 and Fig.18 Anvil 2000' is shown in a fully open position. Fig.17 As can be seen in FIG. 2 , when the “second jaw” or anvil 2000 ′ is in its fully open position, the end effector closure tube 3050 ′ is in its most proximal position. When in this position, the end effector closure tube 3050 ′ does not apply any closing force to the cam closure surface 2020 ′.

[0402] Fig.23 One form of an end effector closure tube 3050' is shown, which can be identical to the end effector closure tube 3050 described above, except for the differences noted below. The end effector closure tube 3050' includes an outer surface 3074' and an inner wall surface 3076'. In at least one form, the end effector closure tube 3050' has an outer surface 3074' and an inner wall surface 3076'. s In addition, the closure tube 3050' has a constant wall thickness WT1, and the section has a thicker wall thickness WT2 that is greater than WT1. Such an arrangement forms a single load transfer location 2070'.

[0403] Fig.19 and Fig. 20 2000' is shown in the position of the end effector closure tube 3050' and the anvil 2000' when the anvil 2000' is in the closed position. Fig. 20 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , when the end effector closure tube 3050' moves distally, the load transfer location 2070' on the end effector closure tube 3050' contacts the cam surface 2034 on the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030. The end effector closure tube 3050' also contacts portions of the elongated channel 1310 on each side of the vertical plane VP that bisects the end effector. The load transfer location 2070' can span the entire cam surface 2034 to contact the upper portion of the cam surface 2020' on each side of the vertical plane VP, such as Fig. 20 When in Fig.19 and Fig. 20 Such an arrangement is used to form a space 3077 between a corresponding portion of the inner surface 3076' of the end effector closure tube 3050' and the cam surface 2020' of the anvil mounting portion 2010' when in the closed position shown. Fig. 20 The spaces 3077 are each spaced from the load transfer position 2070' and the area where the inner surface 3076' contacts the elongated channel 1310 (space distance S D) extends. Thus, when the anvil 2000' moves to the closed position, there is a discrete first load transfer position 2070' located on one side of the horizontal plane HP and two discrete load transfer positions 2072R', 2072L' located on the opposite side of the horizontal plane HP. When the anvil 2000' is in the closed position, the discrete first load transfer position 2070' is separated from each of the discrete load transfer positions 2072R', 2072L' by a space 3077. See Fig. 20 As in Fig. 20 It can also be seen in FIG. 2 that the load transfer locations 2072R′, 2072L′ are located on opposite sides of the vertical plane VP.

[0404] Fig.21 and Fig. 22 2000' is shown in relation to the end effector closure tube 3050' when the end effector closure tube 3050' has moved the anvil 2000' in an over-closed orientation. Fig. 22 As can be seen in the figure, when in the over-closed position, the end effector closure tube 3050' contacts the anvil 2000' and the elongated channel 1310 to form discrete load transfer locations 2070', which are separated from discrete load transfer locations 2074R', 2074L' by spaces 3079R, 3079L. Discrete load transfer location 2074R' is separated from discrete load transfer location 2076R' by space 3081R, and discrete load transfer location 2074L' is separated from discrete load transfer location 2076L' by space 3081L. Therefore, in this arrangement structure, at least one discrete load transfer location (2070') spans the vertical plane VP that bisects the end effector, and at least two discrete load transfer locations span the horizontal plane HP that bisects the end effector. In addition, at least one discrete load transfer location is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP, and at least one discrete load transfer location is located on each side of the vertical plane VP. Such an arrangement of the load transfer locations in the manner described above may help prevent vertical extension of the end effector closure tube 3050'.

[0405] Figures 24 to 30 An alternative anvil 2000 is shown, which is substantially the same as the anvil 2000 described above except for the following differences. Fig.24 As can be seen, the anvil mounting portion 2010" is formed with an arcuate anvil camming surface 2020" and right and left notches or recessed portions 2022". Fig.24 and Fig.25 The anvil 2000 is shown in a fully open position. Fig.24As can be seen, when the "second jaw" or anvil 2000" is in its fully open position, the end effector closing tube 3050" is in its most proximal position. When in this position, the end effector closing tube 3050" does not apply any closing force to the cam closing surface 2020". Fig.30 A form of the end effector closing tube 3050" is shown, which may be the same as the above-mentioned end effector closing tube 3050 except for the differences pointed out below. The end effector closing tube 3050" includes an outer surface 3074" and an inner wall surface 3076". In at least one form, the closing tube 3050" has a first wall thickness WT1, a second wall thickness WT2, a third wall thickness WT3, and a fourth wall thickness WT4 arranged as Fig.30 shown. In at least one arrangement, for example, WT1 < WT2 < WT3 ≤ WT4. In some cases, WT3 > WT4. The portion of the end effector closing tube 3050" having a wall thickness corresponding to WT4 forms a load transfer position 2070". In the illustrated arrangement, for example, the load transfer position 2070" straddles the vertical plane VP bisecting the end effector closing tube 3050". The portion of the end effector closing tube 3050" having a wall thickness WT3 forms load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L". In at least one arrangement as Fig.30 shown, the load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L" straddle the horizontal plane HP bisecting the end effector closing tube 3050".

[0406] Now refer to Fig.26 and Fig. 27 , as the end effector closing tube 3050" moves distally, the load transfer position 2070" contacts the cam surface 2034 on the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030. The load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L" also contact the corresponding portions of the anvil mounting portion 2010". Additionally, portions of the end effector closing tube 3050" form load transfer positions 2074R", 2074L" that contact the corresponding portions of the elongate channel 1310 to move the anvil 2000" to the Fig.26 and Fig. 27 shown closed position. When in the Fig.26 and Fig. 27 shown closed position, such an arrangement is used to form spaces 3077", 3079" between the corresponding portions of the inner surface 3076" of the end effector closing tube 3050" and the cam surface 2020" of the anvil mounting portion 2010", as Fig. 27As shown. Space 3077" is located between load transfer position 2070" and load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L". Space 3079" is located between load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L" and load transfer positions 2074R, 2074L", as shown. Fig. 27 shown.

[0407] Fig.28 and Fig.29 2000" when the end effector closure tube 3050" has moved the anvil 2000" into an over-closed orientation. Fig.29 As can be seen, in addition to the load transfer positions 2070", 2072R", 2072L", 2074R", 2074L", discrete load transfer positions 2076R", 2076L" are formed by the edge of the recessed portion 2022" formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010". Such discrete load transfer positions 2076R", 2076L" are separated from corresponding discrete load transfer positions 2072R", 2072L" by corresponding spaces 3081". Providing such a structure of load transfer positions in the manner described above can help prevent vertical extension of the end actuator closing tube 3050".

[0408] When using an end effector 1300 of the type and configuration described herein, the clinician manipulates the first jaw and the second jaw (the anvil 2000 and the elongated channel 1310 having a surgical staple cartridge operably mounted therein) to capture tissue to be cut and stapled (the "target tissue") therebetween. Figure 5 and Figure 7As can be seen in the drawings, for example, the surgical staple cartridge 4000 includes a cartridge body 4010 configured to be removably supported in the elongated channel 1310. The cartridge body 4010 includes an elongated cartridge slot 4016 extending through the cartridge body 4010 from the proximal end 4012 to the distal end portion 4014 to enable the knife member or firing member 1920 to pass therethrough. The cartridge body 4010 also defines a cartridge deck surface 4020 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. A plurality of staple cavities 4022 are disposed in the cartridge body 4010 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. Each cavity 4022 opens through the deck surface 4020 to removably support one or more surgical staples therein. In at least one cartridge arrangement, three rows of staple cavities 4022 are disposed on each side of the elongated slot 4016. The rows are shaped such that the staples in the center row are staggered relative to the staples in the two adjacent outer rows. These nails are supported on nail drivers, which are movably supported in each nail cavity. In at least some arrangements, for example, the nail driver is arranged to contact or "fire" upward when contacted by a cam member or cam action portion associated with the knife member 1920. In some arrangements, a wedge-shaped slide or cam action slide is movably supported in the cartridge body and is adapted to be axially displaced through the cartridge body when the knife member 1920 is axially deployed from the proximal end portion 4012 of the cartridge body 4010 to the distal end portion 4014 through the cartridge. The wedge-shaped slide includes a cam action member or wedge associated with each row of nail cavities so as to continuously deploy the nail drivers supported therein. When the cam contacts the nail driver, the driver is driven upward in the nail cavity, thereby driving one or more nails supported thereon to leave the nail cavity and pass through the clamped tissue, and driven into contact with the nail forming lower surface of the anvil. The wedge-shaped slide or camming member is located distal to the tissue cutting edge of the knife or knife or firing member 1920 so that the tissue is stapled before being severed by the tissue cutting edge.

[0409] When the clinician initially positions the target tissue between the anvil and the staple cartridge, it is important that the target tissue is positioned so that the knife does not cut into the target tissue unless the target tissue is first sutured. In previous anvil arrangements, a tissue stop is disposed on the proximal end of the anvil body to prevent the target tissue from moving proximally past the most proximal staple recess in the staple cartridge. Such tissue stops form a steep proximal end facing or facing the distal end of the end effector closure tube. As the closure tube moves distally to close the anvil, tissue extending outward from between the anvil and the cartridge occasionally becomes undesirably pinned or clamped between the proximal end of the tissue stop and the distal end of the end effector closure tube. The examples disclosed below are configured to minimize the possibility that tissue is clamped between the tissue stop and the end effector closure tube when the anvil moves to the closed position and the over-closed position in various ways described herein.

[0410] Go to Figure 7 For example, the nail magazine 4000 includes nails (not shown) that are removably supported or stored in each of the proximal nail cavities 4022P, which are positioned in multiple rows of nail cavities 4022 located in the magazine body 4010 on each side of the slender narrow slot 4016.

[0411] In various cases, in order to prevent the target tissue from being clamped proximal to the staples in the most proximal staple cavities 4022P, the anvil 2000 includes two tissue stop members 2040 that protrude downwardly past the staple forming lower surfaces on each side of the anvil body. When the anvil is in the closed position or in the over-closed position, each of the tissue stop members 2040 protrudes downwardly on each side of the cartridge body 4010. Figure 7 2000 is shown in an open configuration. As can be seen in this figure, each of the tissue stops 2040 extends below the surface of the cartridge deck to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally past the staples in the most proximal staple cavities 4022P. Figure 7 , Fig.31 and Fig.32 As can be seen in at least one arrangement, the tissue stop 2040 is integrally formed with the anvil body portion 2002. The proximal ends of the anvil body portion 2002 and the tissue stop 2040 extend slightly above the corresponding camming surface 2020 formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010. In the illustrated example, the proximal end of the tissue stop 2040 is segmented into an upper proximal end portion 2042, a lower proximal end portion 2043, and a bottom proximal end portion 2044. See FIG. Fig.31 and Fig.32 As in Fig.31 and Fig.32 , an angled surface or chamfered surface 2045 is formed between the upper proximal end portion 2042 on the anvil mounting portion and the camming surface 2020. An angled surface or chamfered surface 2046 is formed between the lower proximal end portion 2043 and the camming surface 2020, and an angled surface or chamfered surface 2047 is formed between the lower proximal end portion 2044 and the camming surface 2020. In the illustrated arrangement in which scalloped or relief areas 2080, 2082, 2084 are formed in the anvil mounting portion 2010, the chamfer 2045 corresponds to the relief area 2080. See FIG. Fig.33 . The lower proximal end portion 2043 and the accompanying chamfer 2046 correspond to the relief area 2082, and the bottom proximal end portion 2044 and the accompanying chamfer 2047 correspond to the relief area 2084.

[0412] As discussed above, the anvil 2000 is moved from a fully open position to a closed position and an over-closed position by the axially movable end effector closure tube 3050 . Fig.31 and Fig.33 2000 is in the closed position. Fig.33 3044, the upper proximal end portion 2042 and accompanying chamfer 2045 are generally parallel to corresponding portions of the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. To reduce the likelihood of tissue being inadvertently pinched between the tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050, the lower proximal end portion 2043 and the bottom proximal end portion 2044 of the tissue stop 2040 and the corresponding chamfers 2046 and 2047 are angled relative to the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. This arrangement has the practical effect of increasing the distance between the portion of the tissue stop and the end effector closure tube that is most likely to encounter adjacent tissue.

[0413] Fig.33 for Fig.31 2000 is in a closed position. When in this position, the upper proximal end portion 2042 of each tissue stop 2040 is positioned a first tissue distance TD1 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. The bottom proximal end portion 2044 of each tissue stop 2040 is positioned a second tissue distance TD2 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. As can be seen in the figure, TD2>TD1. Fig.32 and Fig.34 The anvil 2000 is shown in an over-closed position. The first tissue distance TD1' between the upper proximal end portion 2042 of each tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 is still slightly less than the second tissue distance TD2' between the bottom proximal end portion 2044 of each tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050, which will still reduce the possibility of tissue clamping therebetween. In at least one example, TD2 and / or TD2' can be approximately ten thousand inches to approximately two hundred and fifty thousand inches. However, other thicknesses can be obtained. In addition, including chamfered surfaces 2045, 2046, and 2047 can help reduce the possibility of tissue clamping between the tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 when the anvil 200 is moved to the closed position and the over-closed position. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the tissue stop configuration described above will also be useful with other forms of end effector closure tube and closure member arrangements.

[0414] Figures 35 to 38 Another anvil embodiment 5000 is shown that is identical to the anvil 2000 described above except for differences associated with a tissue stop 5040. The tissue stop 5040 can be identical to the tissue stop 2040 except that the proximal end portion 5042, 5043, 5044 of each tissue stop and the accompanying chamfers 5045, 5046, 5047 are generally parallel to the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030. The end effector closure tube 5050 can be identical to the end effector closure tube 3050 described above except for the differences discussed below. Fig.35 and Fig.36 The anvil 5000 is shown in a closed position. In this arrangement, the areas that could otherwise be prone to clamping tissue are the edge of the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of the end effector closure tube 5050 and the facing portion of the distal end 5031. To mitigate and minimize this possibility, a release area 5060 is formed in the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030 that faces or otherwise opposes the bottom proximal end 5044 of each of the tissue stops 5040. In the illustrated example, each release area 5060 includes an arcuate notch 5062 formed in a portion of the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030 that corresponds to the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040. In the illustrated arrangement, for example, when the end effector closure tube 5050 is in a position corresponding to the closed position of the anvil 5000, the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each of the tissue stops 5040 terminates at a bottom corner 5070, and the apex or base 5064 spans directly from the bottom corner 5070. However, other notch shapes may be employed.

[0415] Fig.36 for Fig.35 5000 is in a closed position. When in this position, the upper proximal end portion 5042, the lower proximal end portion 5043, and the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 are positioned a first tissue distance TD1 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 5050. The bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 is positioned a second tissue distance TD2 from the apex or bottom 5064 of the notch 5062 in the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050. As can be seen in this figure, TD2>TD1. Fig.37 and Fig.38The anvil 5000 is shown in an over-closed position. The first tissue distance TD1' between the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 and the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050 is still less than the second tissue distance TD2' between the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 2040 and the apex 5064 of the corresponding notch 5062 in the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050, which will still reduce the possibility of tissue clamping therebetween. In addition, the inclusion of chamfered surfaces 5045, 5046 and 5047 can help reduce the possibility of tissue clamping between the tissue stop 5040 and the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050 when the anvil 5000 is moved to the closed position and the over-closed position. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the above-described tissue stop configuration will also be used with other forms of end effector closure tubes and closure member arrangements.

[0416] Fig.39 A prior surgical staple cartridge 4000 is shown that includes a cartridge body 4010 configured to be removably supported in an elongated channel 1310. The cartridge body 4010 includes an elongated cartridge slot 4016 extending from a proximal end 4012 through the cartridge body 4010 to a distal end portion 4014 to allow a knife member or firing member 1920 ( Figure 5 ) can pass therethrough. The cartridge body 4010 also defines a cartridge deck surface 4020 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. Fig.39. A plurality of nail cavities 4022 are disposed in the cartridge body 4010 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. Each cavity 4022 opens through the platform surface 4020 to removably support one or more surgical staples therein. In at least one cartridge arrangement, three rows of nail cavities 4022 are disposed on each side of the elongated slot 4016. In the illustrated example, the rows are shaped so that the staples in the center row are staggered relative to the staples in the two adjacent outer rows. The staples are supported on staple drivers that are movably supported within each staple cavity. In at least some arrangements, for example, the staple drivers are arranged to contact or "fire" upwardly when contacted by a cam member or camming portion associated with the knife member 1920. In some arrangements, a "wedge" slide or cam action slide is movably supported in the cartridge body 4010 and is adapted to be axially displaced through the cartridge body 4010 as the knife member 1920 is axially deployed from the proximal end portion 4012 of the cartridge body 4010 to the distal end portion 4014 through the cartridge. The wedge slide includes a cam action member or "wedge" associated with each row of nail cavities so as to successively deploy the nail drivers supported therein. As the corresponding wedge or cam contacts the nail driver, the driver is driven upward within the nail cavity, thereby driving one or more nails supported thereon out of the nail cavity and through the clamped tissue and into contact with the nail forming lower surface of the end effector facing the anvil. The wedge slide or cam action member is located distal to the tissue cutting edge of the knife or knife or firing member 1920 so that the tissue is stapled before being cut by the tissue cutting edge on the knife or firing member.

[0417] The arrangement structure and / or geometric structure changes of the nails in the nail line can affect the flexibility and sealing properties of the nail line. For example, a nail line composed of linear alignment nails can provide a limited amount of flexibility or stretching because the nail line can be flexed or stretched between linear nails. Therefore, a limited portion of the nail line (for example, the portion between the nails) is flexible. The nail line composed of nails oriented at an angle can also be flexed or stretched between the nails. However, the nails oriented at an angle can also rotate, which provides additional stretching in the nail line. For example, the nail line composed of nails oriented at an angle can stretch more than 60%. In some instances, for example, the nail line composed of nails oriented at an angle can stretch at least 25% or at least 50%. For example, the arrangement structure of the nails includes the relative orientation of the nails and the spacing between the nails. For example, the geometric structure of the nails includes the size and shape of the nails. Based on the arrangement structure and / or geometric structure of the nails, the flexibility and sealing properties of the nail line can be changed at the longitudinal and / or lateral positions. In some instances, it is desirable to change the flexibility and / or sealing properties of the nail line at one or more positions along the nail line. For example, it may be desirable to maximize the flexibility of a staple line or a portion thereof. Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to minimize the flexibility of a staple line or a portion thereof. It may also be desirable to maximize the sealing properties of a staple line or a portion thereof. Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to minimize the sealing properties of a staple line or a portion thereof.

[0418] The arrangement of the staple cavities in the staple cartridge corresponds to the arrangement of the staples in the staple line produced by the staple cartridge. For example, the spacing and relative orientation of the staple cavities in the staple cartridge corresponds to the spacing and relative orientation of the staples in the staple line produced by the staple cartridge. In various examples, the staple cartridge may include an arrangement of staple cavities that is selected and / or designed to optimize the flexibility and / or sealing properties of the resulting staple line. For example, a surgeon may select a staple cartridge having a particular arrangement of staple cavities based on the characteristics of the surgical procedure to be performed and / or the tissue to be treated during the surgical procedure.

[0419] In some instances, it may be desirable to produce a staple line having different staple patterns. A staple line may include a first staple pattern for a first portion thereof and a second staple pattern for a second portion thereof. The first pattern and the second pattern may be offset longitudinally. For example, the first pattern may be positioned at a proximal end or a distal end of the staple line. In other instances, the first pattern and the second pattern may be offset laterally, and in other instances, the first pattern and the second pattern may be offset laterally and longitudinally. A staple line may include at least two different staple patterns.

[0420] In some instances, most of the nails in the nail line may form a main pattern, and other nails in the nail line may form one or more secondary patterns. The main pattern may span a significant portion of the nail line and may include a longitudinally repeated sub-pattern. In some instances, a secondary pattern or irregular shape may deviate from the main pattern. The secondary pattern may be, for example, an anomaly at one or more positions along the length of the nail line. Different patterns in the nail line may be configured to produce different characteristics at predetermined positions. For example, the main pattern may be a highly flexible or elastic pattern that allows extensive stretching of the sutured tissue, and the secondary pattern may be less flexible or less elastic. For example, it may be desirable that most of the nail line is highly flexible, and one or more limited portions are less flexible. In other instances, the secondary pattern may be more flexible than the main pattern. In some instances, since the secondary pattern extends along the shorter portion of the nail line, the flexibility of the secondary pattern may not affect or significantly affect the overall flexibility of the entire nail line. U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,389 (now U.S. patent application publication 2018 / 0168629) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN” (the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) discloses various staple cartridge and staple driver arrangements. U.S. Patent 9,801,627 (the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE FORCREATING FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINES” discloses various cartridge and anvil arrangements for producing flexible surgical staple lines.

[0421] See again Fig.39, most of the staple cavities 4022 in the cartridge 4000 are arranged into a first or primary pattern 4030. The first pattern 4030 is a longitudinally repeating pattern of the staple cavities 4022 oriented at an angle. A longitudinally repeating pattern is one in which a sub-pattern or arrangement repeats longitudinally. For example, the arrangement of three staple cavities (inner staple cavity, middle staple cavity, and outer staple cavity) on each side of the slot 4016 may repeat along at least a portion of the length of the staple cartridge body 4010. Various longitudinally repeating patterns of the staple cavities oriented at an angle are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 498,145, entitled “METHOD FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLESTAPLE LINE” filed on September 26, 2014, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0089142, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The openings 4024 of the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030 form a herringbone pattern having six rows of angularly oriented staple cavity openings 4024 in the cartridge deck surface 4020. An inner row 4026a, a middle row 4026b, and an outer row 4026c of staple cavities 4022 are positioned on each side of the slot 4016.

[0422] Each nail cavity opening 4024 has a proximal end 4027 and a distal end 4028. The proximal ends 4027 and the distal ends 4028 of the nail cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030 are laterally offset. In other words, each nail cavity 4022 in the first pattern 4030 is oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal nail magazine axis SCA. The cavity axis CA extends between the proximal end 4027 and the distal end 4028 of each opening 4024. The cavity axis CA is oriented obliquely relative to the narrow slot 4016. More specifically, the openings 4024 in the inner row 4026a of the nail cavities 4022 and the outer row 4026c of the nail cavities 4022 are oriented at 45 degrees or about 45 degrees relative to the longitudinal nail magazine axis SCA, and the openings 4024 in the middle row 4026b of the nail cavities 4022 are oriented at 90 degrees or about 90 degrees relative to the openings 4024 in the inner row 4026a and the outer row 4026c.

[0423] exist Fig.39In the example of the present invention, certain staple cavities in the cartridge body 4010 are oriented at unusual or irregular angles relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. More specifically, the angular orientations of the proximal staple cavities 4022a, 4022b, 4022c, and 4022d and the distal staple cavities 4022e, 4022f, 4022g, and 4022h do not conform to the herringbone arrangement of the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. Instead, the proximal staple cavities 4022a-4022d and the distal staple cavities 4022e-4022h are angularly offset from the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. The proximal staple cavities 4022a, 4022b, 4022c, and 4022d are oriented obliquely relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030, and the distal staple cavities 4022e, 4022f, 4022g, and 4022h are also oriented obliquely relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. The proximal and distal staple cavities 4022a-4022h are oriented parallel to the slots 4016 and parallel to the longitudinal staple cartridge axis SCA.

[0424] The proximal staple cavities 4022a-4022d form a proximal pattern 4040 that is different from the first pattern 4030, and the distal staple cavities 4022e-4022h form a distal pattern 4042 that is also different from the first pattern 4030. In the illustrated arrangement, the proximal pattern 4040 includes a first pair of parallel longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022a, 4022b on a first side of the slot 4016 and a second pair of parallel longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022c, 4022d on a second side of the longitudinal slot 4016. The distal pattern 4042 also includes a first pair of parallel longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022e, 4022f on a first side of the longitudinal slot 4016 and a second pair of parallel longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022g, 4022h on a second side of the longitudinal slot 4016. In other examples, the distal pattern 4042 may be different from the proximal pattern 4040.

[0425] The proximal pattern 4040 and the distal pattern 4042 are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal staple cartridge axis SCA. In other examples, the proximal pattern 4040 and / or the distal pattern 4042 may be asymmetrical relative to the longitudinal staple cartridge axis SCA. For example, nail cavities 4022e and 4022f may be longitudinally offset from nail cavities 4022g and 4022h, and / or nail cavities 4022a and 4022b may be longitudinally offset from nail cavities 4022c and 4022d. In addition or alternatively, in some examples, the staple cartridge body 4010 may include a proximal pattern 4040 or a distal pattern 4042. In other examples, the nail cavities 4022 defined in the staple cartridge body 4010 may include additional and / or different patterns of the nail cavities 4022.

[0426] As in Fig.39As can be further seen in the figure, the atraumatic expander 4050 extends or protrudes from the platform surface 4020 around a portion of the nail cavity 4022 in the first pattern 4030. The atraumatic expander 4050 respectively surrounds the proximal end 4027 and the distal end 4028 of the opening 4024 of the nail cavity 4022 in the first pattern 4030. The atraumatic expander 4050 can be configured to grasp tissue clamped by the end effector. In addition or alternatively, in some instances, the ends of the nail legs may protrude from the cartridge body 4010. In such instances, the atraumatic expander 4050 can be configured to extend flush with the ends of the nail legs and / or extend beyond the ends of the nail legs to prevent the ends from prematurely penetrating the tissue. Thus, larger nails (e.g., nails with longer legs) can be positioned in nail cavities 4022 that have the atraumatic expanders 4050 positioned around them. For example, see again Fig.39 , larger staples may be positioned in staple cavities 4022 in first pattern 4030 without risk of premature tissue penetration by the longer staple legs compared to staples in staple cavities in proximal pattern 4040 and distal pattern 4042. In certain examples, atraumatic expanders 4050 may be positioned around staple cavities 4022 in proximal pattern 4040 and / or distal pattern 4042, and larger staples may also be positioned in one or more of those staple cavities 4022a-4022h.

[0427] The staple cartridge body 4010 can be configured to produce staple lines having different characteristics along their length. The staple lines 4060 produced by the staple cartridge body 4010 and embedded in the tissue T are Fig.40 The staple line 4060 is comprised of staples 4062, and an exemplary staple 4062 for use with the various staple cartridges described herein is shown in FIG. Fig.41 . For example, nail 4062 may be made of a bent wire. The diameter of the wire may have a diameter of 0.0079 inches or about 0.0079 inches. In other examples, the wire may have a diameter of 0.0089 inches or about 0.0089 inches. In other examples, the wire may have a diameter of 0.0094 inches or about 0.0094 inches. In certain examples, the wire may have a diameter less than 0.0079 inches or greater than 0.0094 inches. The reader will understand that the diameter of the wire may determine the diameter of the nail. Nail 4062 is a substantially U-shaped nail having a base 4064, a first leg 4066 extending from a first end of the base 4064, and a second leg 4068 extending from a second end of the base 4064. The first leg 4066 is substantially parallel to the second leg 4068 and substantially perpendicular to the base 4064. When implanted in tissue T, the angular orientation of the base 4064 corresponds to the angular orientation of the staple cavity opening 4024 from which the staples 4062 are fired.

[0428] Another exemplary staple 4070 that can be used with the various staple cartridges described herein is Fig.42 4070 is a substantially "V-shaped" nail having a base 4072, a first leg 4074 extending from a first end of the base 4072, and a second leg 4076 extending from a second end of the base 4072. The first leg 4074 is oriented obliquely relative to the second leg 4076 and the base 4072. When implanted in tissue T, the orientation of the base 4072 corresponds to the orientation of the nail cavity opening 4024 from which the nail 4070 is fired. The reader will understand that nails having different geometric structures can also be fired from the nail cartridges described herein.

[0429] See again Fig.40 , the staple line 4060 includes a first portion 4061, a proximal portion 4063, and a distal portion 4065. The first portion 4061 is generated by the first or primary pattern 4030 and extends along a majority of the staple line 4030. Due to the angular orientation of the staples 4062 in the first portion 4030, the first portion 4061 is substantially flexible or compliant. For example, because the angularly oriented staples 4062 can rotate within the sutured tissue T while minimizing trauma to the tissue T, the first portion 4061 is configured to be able to stretch or extend longitudinally and / or laterally when the sutured tissue is stretched.

[0430] The proximal portion 4063 is generated by the proximal pattern 4040 and forms the proximal end of the staple line 4060. The distal portion 4065 is generated by the distal pattern 4042 and forms the distal end of the staple line 4060. Due to the parallel orientation of the staples 4062 in the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 of the staple line 4060, the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 of the staple line 4060 may have less flexibility than the first portion 4061. However, the reduced flexibility of the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 may not affect or substantially affect the overall flexibility of the staple line 4060. In addition, as described herein, the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 may not extend adjacent to the cut line, and in some instances, the proximal portion 4063 may not be present or missing from the staple line 4060.

[0431] As described herein, nails are removably positioned in a nail magazine and fired from the nail magazine during use. In various examples, nails can be driven out of nail cavities in the nail magazine and brought into contact with the anvil. For example, a firing element can translate through the nail magazine during a firing stroke to drive the nails from the nail magazine toward the anvil. In some examples, the nails can be supported by a nail driver, and the firing element can lift the nail driver to eject or remove the nails from the nail magazine.

[0432] The anvil may include a staple forming surface having a staple forming recess defined therein. In some instances, the staple forming recess may be stamped into the anvil. For example, the staple forming recess may be embossed into the flat surface of the anvil. The reader will appreciate that certain features of the staple forming recess may be an intentional consequence of the embossing process. For example, a degree of rounding at the corners and / or edges of the staple formed product may be an intentional result of the embossing process. These features may also be designed to better form the staple into its formed configuration, including staples that become deflected and / or otherwise misaligned during deployment.

[0433] Each nail in the nail magazine can be aligned with the nail forming recess of the anvil. In other words, the arrangement of the nail cavities and nails in the nail magazine for the end effector can correspond to or match the arrangement of the nail forming recesses in the anvil of the end effector. More specifically, the angular orientation of each nail cavity can match the angular orientation of the corresponding nail forming recess. For example, when the nail cavities are arranged in a herringbone pattern, the nail forming recesses can also be arranged in a herringbone pattern.

[0434] When the nail is driven from the nail magazine and is in forming contact with the anvil, the nail can be formed into a "firing" configuration. In various examples, the firing configuration can be a "B-shaped" configuration, in which the ends of the nail legs are bent toward the nail base or crown to form a capital letter B with symmetrical upper and lower rings. In other examples, the firing configuration can be a modified B-shape, such as a skewed B-shaped configuration, in which at least a portion of the nail legs is twisted out of plane with the nail base, or an asymmetric B-shaped configuration, in which the upper and lower rings of the capital letter B are asymmetric. Tissue can be captured or clamped within the formed nail.

[0435] The arrangement of the nails and / or nail cavities in the nail magazine can be configured to optimize the corresponding arrangement of the nail forming pits in the forming surface of the nail complementary anvil. For example, the angular orientation and spacing of the nails in the nail magazine can be designed to optimize the forming surface of the anvil. In some instances, the occupied area of ​​the nail forming pits in the anvil can be limited by the geometric structure of the anvil. In an instance where the nail forming pits are oriented obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis, the width of the anvil can limit the size and spacing of the obliquely oriented nail forming pits. For example, the width of the middle row of nail forming pits can define the minimum distance between the first row (e.g., outer row) on one side of the middle row and the second row (e.g., inner row) on the other side of the middle row. In addition, the rows of nail forming pits are limited between the inner edge of the anvil (such as a knife slot) and the outer edge of the anvil.

[0436] In various examples, the pits can be nested adjacently along the nail-forming lower surface of the anvil. For example, the middle pit can be nested between the inner pit and the outer pit. The angular orientation of the pits can be varied row by row to facilitate their nesting. For example, the nail-forming pits in the inner row can be oriented at a first angle, the nail-forming pits in the middle row can be oriented at a second angle, and the nail-forming pits in the outer row can be oriented at a third angle. The first angle, the second angle, and the third angle can be different, which can facilitate the close arrangement of the nail-forming pits.

[0437] See again Fig.39 The previous nail magazines shown and other previous nail magazines disclosed, for example, in the following patents: U.S. Patent 9,801,627, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE FOR CREATING FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINES", and / or U.S. Patent Application 14 / 498,145 filed on September 26, 2014, now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016 / 0089142, entitled "METHOD FOR CREATING AFLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE", can select the varying angles of the nails and nail cavities in each row to optimize the nesting of the nail forming recesses in the complementary anvil. For each such nail magazine, the complementary anvil can be configured to have a corresponding arrangement of nail forming recesses. In addition, the nail forming recesses in the complementary anvil can be larger than the nail cavity to facilitate the landing or falling of the nail legs into the nail forming recesses. For example, the nail legs can be biased outward, such as in the case of V-shaped nails (see Fig.42 ), and the larger footprint of the nail forming pockets can capture the outwardly biased nail legs during firing. In various examples, the nail forming pockets can be 0.005 inches to 0.015 inches longer than the corresponding nail cavity and / or nail. In addition or alternatively, the nail receiving cup of each nail forming pocket can be 0.005 inches to 0.015 inches wider than the corresponding nail cavity. In other examples, the difference in length and / or width can be less than 0.005 inches or greater than 0.015 inches.

[0438] In instances where the size of the nails varies within the nail cartridge, the size of the nail forming pockets can be varied accordingly within the complementary anvil. Changing the size of the nail forming pockets can further facilitate their nesting. For example, in instances where the nail forming pockets in the middle row are shorter than the nail forming pockets in the inner or outer rows, the width of the middle row of nail pockets can be reduced, which can minimize the necessary spacing between the inner and outer rows.

[0439] The spacing of the nail forming dimples can also be configured to optimize their nesting. For example, the dimples arranged in the inner row can be longitudinally staggered relative to the dimples arranged in the outer row. In addition, the dimples in the inner row can partially overlap the dimples in the outer row longitudinally. The dimples in the middle row can be longitudinally staggered relative to the dimples in the inner row and the dimples in the outer row. For example, the dimples in the middle row can be longitudinally offset equidistantly from the dimples in the outer row and the dimples in the inner row.

[0440] Now go to Figure 43 to Figure 45 , shows an anvil 9000 which may be similar to the anvils described herein, except that the anvil 9000 includes a deformable anvil tip 9010. The anvil 9000 includes an anvil body 9002 which includes a staple forming lower surface (generally referred to as 9004) through which an elongated slot 9006 passes. The staple forming lower surface 9004 defines flanges 9008, 9010 located on each side of the elongated slot 9006 within the anvil body 9002 for sliding engagement by a protrusion formed on or attached to a knife of a firing member which is configured to pass through the slot 9006 during the staple firing and tissue cutting process. Figure 43 to Figure 45 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the deformable anvil tip 9050 is attached to the distal end 9020 of the anvil body 9002 .

[0441] In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil body 9002 can be made of a first material (e.g., a first metallic material that can include, for example, stainless steel, titanium, etc.). For example, the deformable anvil tip 9050 can be made of a second material that is more flexible and more deformable than the first material. The second material can include a plastic material. In at least one arrangement, the deformable anvil tip 9050 can be made of, for example, a thermosetting plastic that does not re-mold under heat. Figure 43 to Figure 45 In the example shown, the deformable anvil tip 9050 includes an attachment portion 9052 that includes a first flexible attachment assembly 9054. In one arrangement, the first flexible attachment assembly 9054 is T-shaped when viewed from above. The T-shaped first attachment assembly 9054 is configured to be slidably received in a T-shaped slot arrangement 9022 formed in the distal end 9020 of the anvil body 9002. The T-shaped first attachment assembly 9054 is configured to be inserted into the slot 9022 along an insertion direction ID that is transverse to an anvil axis ANA defined by the anvil body 9002.

[0442] Still see Figure 43 to Figure 45, the T-shaped first attachment assembly 9054 includes a slotted through hole 9056 that defines a right flexible attachment tab 9058 and a left flexible attachment tab 9060. The right flexible attachment tab 9058 and the left flexible attachment tab 9060 are configured to be slidably received in corresponding portions of the T-shaped narrow slot arrangement structure 9022 in the insertion direction ID. Once the first attachment assembly 9054 has been inserted into the T-shaped narrow slot 9022 in the distal end 9020 of the anvil body 9002, the second attachment member 9070 is inserted into the slotted through hole 9056 in the first attachment assembly 9054. In at least one arrangement structure, the second attachment member 9070 includes a body 9072 that includes a transverse top member 9074. The body 9072 includes one or more retaining features in the form of a deformable thread or shoulder 9076 formed thereon. To attach the deformable anvil tip 9050 to the anvil body 9002, the first attachment component 9054 is inserted into the T-slot arrangement 9022 along the insertion direction and seated in the bottom thereof against the flanges 9008, 9010. The body 9072 of the second attachment member 9070 is inserted into the slotted through hole 9056 in the first attachment component 9054 along the insertion direction ID. In at least one arrangement, the slotted through hole 9056 is sized relative to the body portion 9072 of the second attachment member 9070 so that the flexible attachment tabs 9058, 9060 flex laterally outwardly along the lateral attachment direction LAD to laterally retain engagement with corresponding portions of the T-slot 9022. Once the second attachment member 9070 has been inserted into the slotted through hole 9056 in the first attachment assembly 9054, the deformable shoulder 9076 thereon holds the second member 9070 in engagement and prevents it from being removed from the through hole 9056. In one arrangement, the second attachment member 9070 is inserted into the slotted through hole 9056 under pressure. In another arrangement, the second attachment member 9070 is heated and inserted (heat staking) under pressure so that once the second attachment member 9070 has been inserted and seated into the slotted through hole 9056, the shoulder 9076 is permanently deformed to hold the second attachment member 9070 in a retained position.

[0443] As in Figure 43 to Figure 45As can also be seen in , the anvil 9000 may include an anvil cover 9080 that is sized to cover the elongated slot 9006 in the anvil body 9002. The anvil cover 9080 may be made of the same material that constitutes the anvil body 9002 and is welded to the anvil body 9002 after the deformable anvil tip 9050 is installed in the manner described above. The anvil cover 9080 includes a distal end 9082 that is configured to be received in a cavity 9062 that is disposed in the attachment portion 9052 of the deformable anvil tip 9050. Such an arrangement also holds the second attachment member 9070 in place. Once the deformable anvil tip 9050 has been attached to the anvil body 9002, the distal end portion 9051 of the anvil tip 9050 is angled below the nail forming lower surface 9004 of the anvil body 9002. See FIG. Fig.44 .

[0444] Next go to Fig.46 and Fig.47 , shows an anvil 9100 which is similar to the anvil 9000 described above except for the following differences. The anvil 9100 includes an anvil body 9102 which includes a staple forming lower surface (generally referred to as 9104) through which an elongated slot 9106 passes. The staple forming lower surface 9104 is used to form flanges 9108, 9110 on each side of the elongated slot 9106 in the anvil body 9102 for sliding engagement by a protrusion formed on or attached to the knife of the firing member, which passes through the slot 9106 during the staple firing and tissue cutting process. As shown in FIG. Fig.46 and Fig.47 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the anvil 9100 includes a deformable anvil tip 9150 attached to the distal end 9120 of the anvil body 9102 .

[0445] In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil body 9102 can be made of a first material (e.g., a first metallic material that can include stainless steel, titanium, etc.). For example, the deformable anvil tip 9050 can be made of a second material that is more flexible and more deformable than the first material and includes, for example, a plastic material. In at least one arrangement, the deformable anvil tip 9050 is made of, for example, a thermosetting plastic that does not re-mold under heat. Fig.46 and Fig.47 In the example shown, the deformable anvil tip 9050 includes an attachment portion 9152 that includes a first flexible attachment assembly 9154. In one arrangement, the first flexible attachment assembly 9154 is T-shaped when viewed from above. The T-shaped first attachment assembly 9154 is configured to be slidably received within a T-shaped slot arrangement 9122 formed in the distal end 9120 of the anvil body 9102. Fig.46As can be seen most specifically in the anvil body 9102, the T-shaped slot arrangement 9122 includes two cavities 9124 formed through the staple forming lower surface 9104. Unlike the anvil 9000 described above, the T-shaped first attachment assembly 9154 arrangement is configured to be capable of being inserted in an insertion direction ID transverse to the anvil axis ANA defined by the anvil body 9102. B Insert into the narrow groove 9122 from the bottom of the nail forming lower surface 9104.

[0446] Still see Fig.46 and Fig.47 The T-shaped first attachment component 9154 includes a slotted through hole 9156 that defines a right flexible attachment tab 9158 and a left flexible attachment tab 9160. The right flexible attachment tab 9158 and the left flexible attachment tab 9160 are configured to be able to be inserted in the insertion direction ID B The first attachment assembly 9154 is slidably received in a corresponding cavity 9124 of the T-slot arrangement structure 9122. Once the first attachment assembly 9154 has been inserted into the T-slot 9122 in the distal end 9120 of the anvil body 9102, the second attachment member 9170 is inserted into the slotted through hole 9156 in the first attachment assembly 9154. In at least one arrangement structure, the second attachment member includes a body 9172, which includes a lateral top member 9174. The body 9172 has one or more retaining features in the form of deformable threads or shoulders 9176 formed thereon. In order to attach the deformable anvil tip 9150 to the anvil body 9102, the first attachment assembly 9154 is inserted into the slotted through hole 9156 in the first attachment assembly 9154. B Inserted into the T-slot arrangement 9122 and seated in the cavity 9124. The body 9172 of the second attachment member 9170 is inserted into the T-slot arrangement 9122 and seated in the cavity 9124. B9156 in the first attachment member 9154. In at least one arrangement, the slotted through-hole 9156 is sized relative to the body portion 9172 of the second attachment member 9170 so that the flexible attachment tabs 9058, 9160 flex laterally outward in the lateral attachment direction into lateral engagement with the corresponding cavity 9124. Once the second attachment member 9170 has been inserted into the slotted through-hole 9156 in the first attachment assembly 9154, the deformable shoulder 9176 located thereon holds the second member 9170 in engagement and prevents it from being removed from the through-hole 9156. In one arrangement, the second attachment member 9170 is inserted into the slotted through-hole 9156 under pressure. In another arrangement, the second attachment member 9170 is heated and inserted (heat staking) under pressure so that once the second attachment member 9170 has been inserted and seated in the slotted through-hole 9156, the shoulder 9176 is permanently deformed to hold the second attachment member 9170 in place. In the illustrated example, a tissue grasping feature or nodule 9178 is formed on the top portion 9174 of the second attachment member 9170 to assist in grasping tissue with the anvil 9100. As shown in Fig.46 9102, the anvil 9100 may include an anvil cover 9180 that is sized to cover the slot 9106 in the anvil body 9102. The anvil cover 9180 may be made of the same material that constitutes the anvil body 9102 and welded to the anvil body 9102. Once the deformable anvil tip 9150 has been attached to the anvil body 9102, the distal end 9151 of the anvil tip 9150 is angled below the staple forming lower surface 9104 of the anvil body 9102. See FIG. Fig.47 In one arrangement, the deformable anvil tip 9150 can have a constant width throughout its length and also have a relatively square distal end portion.

[0447] Next go to Fig.48 and Fig.49 , an anvil 9200 is shown including an anvil body 9202 including a nail forming lower surface (generally referred to as 9204). The anvil 9200 includes a deformable anvil tip 9250 attached to a distal end 9220 of the anvil body 9202. In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil body 9202 may be made of a first material, which may include a first metal material such as stainless steel, titanium, etc. The deformable anvil tip 9250 may be made of a second material that is more flexible and more deformable than the first material and may include, for example, a plastic material. In at least one arrangement, the deformable anvil tip 9250 is made of, for example, a thermosetting plastic that does not re-mold under heat. In Fig.48 and Fig.49In the example shown, a distally extending attachment member or lug assembly 9230 is formed on the distal end 9020 of the anvil body 9202. Fig.48 As can be seen in FIG. 1 , in one arrangement, the attachment assembly 9230 includes a first planar portion 9232 extending from an arcuate molded shoulder 9225 that protrudes from the distal end 9220 of the anvil body 9202. A segmented lug portion 9234 is attached to the first planar portion 9232 so that the segmented lug portion extends laterally from the first planar portion. The planar attachment portion 9232 may additionally have a hole 9236 therein to facilitate the flow of flexible end material therethrough when the anvil end 9250 is molded thereon. As with various anvil assemblies, its anvil body may be coated with a lubricating material to facilitate improved nail formation and insertion through a trocar cannula, etc. In the illustrated example, a portion of the anvil body 9202 proximal to the distal end position 9220 may be lubricated in such a manner, for example. However, the attachment assembly 9230 may be etched to remove any lubricant therefrom and improve the adhesion of the overmolded deformable anvil tip 9250 to the anvil body 9202. The etching process may produce a frictional adhesion surface for the second material to better adhere to it. In other arrangements, for example, the attachment assembly may be covered during the application of lubricant to the anvil body to prevent the lubricating medium from being applied to the attachment assembly. Once the deformable anvil tip 9250 has been molded to the anvil body 9202, the distal end portion 9251 of the anvil tip 9250 is angled below the nail forming lower surface 9204 of the anvil body 9202. In one arrangement, the deformable anvil tip 9250 may have a constant width over the entire length and also have a relatively square distal end portion.

[0448] See now Fig.50 and Fig.51 , another anvil structure 9300 includes an anvil body 9302 including a staple forming lower surface (generally referred to as 9304) through which an elongated slot 9306 passes. Fig.50 and Fig.51 As can be seen in FIG. 8 , the anvil 9300 includes a deformable anvil tip assembly 9350 attached to the distal end 9320 of the anvil body 9302 .

[0449] In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil body 9302 may be made of a first material, which may include, for example, a first metallic material such as stainless steel, titanium, etc. For example, the first portion 9351 of the deformable anvil end assembly 9350 may be made of a second material that is more flexible and more deformable than the first material and may include a plastic material. In at least one arrangement, the deformable anvil end assembly 9350 includes a first end portion 9351 that includes, for example, a thermosetting plastic that does not re-mold under heat. Fig.50 and Fig.51 In the example shown, the deformable anvil tip assembly 9350 includes an attachment portion 9352 that includes an attachment tab 9354 extending proximally. In one arrangement, the attachment tab 9354 is configured to be received in a correspondingly shaped cavity 9322 formed in the distal end 9320 of the anvil body 9302. The attachment tab 9354 is retained in the cavity 9322 by an anvil cover 9380 that is sized to cover the slot 9306 in the anvil body 9302. When the anvil cover 9380 is attached to the anvil body 9302, the anvil cover 9380 retains the attachment tab 9354 in the cavity 9322 to attach the deformable anvil tip assembly 9350 to the anvil body 9302. In addition, the first portion 9351 of the deformable anvil end assembly 9350 may also be provided with a narrow slot 9355, which is configured to receive the end insert 9390 therein. In one arrangement structure, the end insert 9390 is made of a material that is more rigid than the second material from which the first end portion is made. In one example, the first portion 9351 of the anvil end assembly 9350 may be molded to the end insert 9390. In some arrangements, the end insert 9390 may be additionally welded or attached to the anvil body 9302. Once the deformable anvil end assembly 9350 has been attached to the anvil body 9302, the distal end portion 9353 of the anvil end assembly 9350 is angled below the nail forming lower surface 9304 of the anvil body 9302. See. Fig.50 and Fig.51 In one arrangement, the anvil tip assembly 9350 can have a constant width throughout its length and also have a relatively square distal end portion.

[0450] Example

[0451] Example 1 - An anvil for a surgical stapler, the anvil comprising an anvil body made of a first material. The anvil body defines an anvil axis. An end member is made of a second material different from the first material. The end member comprises a first flexible attachment portion, the first flexible attachment portion being configured to be received in an opening in the distal end of the anvil body. A distal portion protrudes at an angle from the first flexible attachment portion. The anvil also comprises a second attachment member, the second attachment member being configured to be able to non-removably engage the first flexible attachment portion to bias the first flexible attachment portion into engagement with a corresponding portion of the distal end of the anvil body.

[0452] Example 2 - An anvil according to Example 1, wherein the first flexible attachment portion includes a slotted opening therethrough for receiving the second attachment member therein along an insertion direction transverse to the anvil axis.

[0453] Embodiment 3 - An anvil according to Embodiment 2, wherein the second attachment member is inserted into the slotted opening with pressure and heat applied to the second attachment member.

[0454] Embodiment 4 - An anvil according to embodiment 1, 2 or 3, wherein the second attachment member is made of a material capable of permanent deformation.

[0455] Example 5 - An anvil according to Example 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein the first material comprises a metal and wherein the second material comprises a plastic material.

[0456] Example 6 - An anvil according to Example 5, wherein the metal comprises titanium and wherein the second material comprises a thermoset plastic.

[0457] Example 7 - The anvil of Example 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the anvil body further comprises an elongated slot and a staple forming lower surface. The anvil further comprises an anvil cover configured to be attached to the anvil body to cover at least a portion of the upper end of the elongated slot and to retain the first flexible attachment portion within the opening in the distal end of the anvil body.

[0458] Example 8 - An anvil according to Example 7, wherein the anvil cover is made of the first material and is configured to be welded to the anvil body.

[0459] Example 9 - An anvil according to Example 7 or 8, wherein the end member is attached to the distal end of the anvil body and the distal portion of the end member extends below the nail forming lower surface.

[0460] Example 10 - An anvil as described in accordance with Examples 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, wherein the second attachment member has a tissue grasping feature thereon.

[0461] Embodiment 11 - The anvil of Embodiment 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10, wherein the second attachment member comprises a body portion and a transverse portion, the transverse portion extending laterally from the body portion. The transverse body portion has a tissue grasping feature thereon. A retaining feature capable of permanent deformation is disposed on the body portion.

[0462] Example 12 - An anvil for a surgical stapler, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body, the anvil body is made of a first material and includes a distally extending attachment member protruding from the distal end of the anvil body. The end member is made of a second material different from the first material and is configured to be molded around the distally extending attachment member. The anvil body includes a lubricating medium thereon; however, the distally extending attachment member does not have a lubricating medium thereon.

[0463] Example 13 - An anvil according to Example 12, wherein the anvil body defines a nail forming lower surface, and wherein the end member includes a proximal attachment portion and a distal end portion, the distal end portion extending at an angle from the proximal attachment portion so that the distal end portion extends below the nail forming lower surface of the anvil body.

[0464] Example 14 - An anvil according to Example 12 or 13, wherein the first material comprises a metallic material and wherein the second material comprises a thermoplastic material.

[0465] Example 15 - An anvil according to Example 12, 13 or 14, wherein the distally extending attachment member includes a planar attachment portion protruding distally from the distal end of the anvil body and a lateral portion attached to and extending laterally from the planar attachment portion.

[0466] Example 16 - An anvil according to Example 15, wherein the lateral portion has a plurality of lugs formed thereon.

[0467] Example 17 - An anvil as described in Example 16, wherein the planar attachment portion has a hole passing therethrough.

[0468] Example 18 - An anvil for a surgical stapler, wherein the anvil includes an anvil body, the anvil body being made of a first material and defining an elongated slot extending therethrough. The end member is made of a second material different from the first material. The end member includes a first attachment portion, the first flexible attachment portion being configured to be received in an opening in the distal end of the anvil body. The distal portion protrudes at an angle from the first flexible attachment portion. The anvil also includes an anvil cover, the anvil cover being configured to be attached to the anvil body to cover at least a portion of the upper end of the elongated slot and to retain the first attachment portion in the opening in the distal end of the anvil body.

[0469] Example 19 - An anvil according to Example 18, wherein the end member further includes an insert attached to the end member, the insert being made of an insert material different from the second material.

[0470] Example 20 - An anvil according to Example 19, wherein the insert material comprises the first material.

[0471] 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 a manually operated trigger. In certain instances, the motor disclosed herein may include a portion or portions of a robotic control system. In addition, any end effector and / or tool assembly disclosed herein may be used with a robotic surgical instrument system. For example, U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 118,241 (now U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535), entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS," discloses several examples of robotic surgical instrument systems in more detail.

[0472] The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in conjunction with the deployment and deformation of staples; however, the embodiments described herein are not limited thereto. For example, various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fasteners other than staples, such as clamps or tacks. In addition, various embodiments are contemplated that utilize any suitable device for sealing tissue. For example, an end effector according to various embodiments may include an electrode configured to heat and seal tissue. Additionally, for example, an end effector according to certain embodiments may apply vibration energy to seal tissue.

[0473] The entire disclosures of the following patents are hereby incorporated herein by reference:

[0474] - U.S. Patent No. 5,403,312, issued on April 4, 1995, entitled "ELECTROSURGICALHEMOSTATIC DEVICE";

[0475] - U.S. Patent 7,000,818, issued on February 21, 2006, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

[0476] - U.S. Patent 7,422,139, issued on September 9, 2008, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICALCUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILEPOSITION FEEDBACK";

[0477] - U.S. Patent 7,464,849, issued on December 16, 2008, entitled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVILALIGNMENT COMPONENTS";

[0478] - U.S. Patent 7,670,334, issued on March 2, 2010, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR”;

[0479] - U.S. Patent 7,753,245, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS,” issued on July 13, 2010;

[0480] - U.S. Patent 8,393,514, issued on March 12, 2013, entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE";

[0481] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 343,803, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES”; now U.S. Patent 7,845,537;

[0482] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 031,573, filed February 14, 2008, entitled “SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES”;

[0483] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 031,873, filed on February 15, 2008, entitled “END EFFECTORS FOR ASURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT” (now U.S. Patent No. 7,980,443);

[0484] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 235,782, entitled “MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,210,411;

[0485] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 235,972, entitled "MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT," now U.S. Patent No. 9,050,083.

[0486] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 249,117, entitled “POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045;

[0487] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 647,100, filed December 24, 2009, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICALCUTTING INSTRUMENTWITH ELECTRIC ACTUATORDIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY"; now U.S. Patent No. 8,220,688;

[0488] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 893,461, filed on September 29, 2012, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,733,613;

[0489] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 036,647, filed on February 28, 2011, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,561,870;

[0490] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 118,241, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS,” now U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535;

[0491] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 524,049, filed on June 15, 2012, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE”; now U.S. Patent No. 9,101,358;

[0492] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 800,025, filed on March 13, 2013, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM," now U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481;

[0493] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 800,067, filed on March 13, 2013, and entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM,” now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263552;

[0494] - U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0175955, filed January 31, 2006, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM"; and

[0495] - U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0264194, filed on April 22, 2010, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH ANARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR," now U.S. Patent No. 8,308,040.

[0496] Although various devices have been described herein in conjunction with certain embodiments, many modifications and variations of these embodiments may also be implemented. In one or more embodiments, specific features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner. Therefore, without limitation, specific features, structures, or characteristics shown or described in conjunction with one embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. In addition, where materials for certain components are disclosed, other materials may also be used. In addition, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components may also be replaced with a single component to perform a given one or more functions. The above-described specific embodiments and the following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

[0497] The device disclosed herein can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or it can be designed to be used multiple times. However, in either case, the device can be used again after being conditioned after at least one use. Conditioning may include any combination of the following steps, including but not limited to disassembling the device, cleaning or replacing specific parts of the device, and then reassembling the device. Specifically, the conditioning facility and / or surgical team can disassemble the device, and after cleaning and / or replacing specific parts of the device, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conditioning device can be disassembled, cleaned / replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such techniques and the resulting repair device are within the scope of this application.

[0498] The devices disclosed herein can be processed before surgery. First, new or used instruments can be obtained and cleaned as needed. Then, the instruments can be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instruments are placed in a closed and sealed container (such as a plastic or TYVEK bag). The container and the instruments can then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays and / or high-energy electrons. Radiation can kill bacteria on the instruments and in the container. The sterilized instruments can then be stored in a sterile container. The sealed container can keep the instruments sterile until the container is opened in a medical facility. The devices can also be sterilized using any other technology known in the art, including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, plasma peroxide and / or steam.

[0499] While the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

Claims

1. An anvil for a surgical stapler, comprising: an anvil body made of a first material and defining an anvil axis; and An end member, the end member being made of a second material different from the first material, the end member comprising: a first flexible attachment portion configured to be received within an opening in a distal end of the anvil body; and a distal portion that projects at an angle from the first flexible attachment portion, and wherein the anvil further comprises a second attachment member configured to non-removably engage the first flexible attachment portion to bias the first flexible attachment portion into engagement with a corresponding portion of the distal end of the anvil body, Wherein, the second attachment member includes a tissue grasping feature thereon.

2. The anvil according to claim 1, wherein: The first flexible attachment portion includes a slotted opening therethrough for receiving the second attachment member therein in an insertion direction transverse to the anvil axis.

3. The anvil according to claim 2, wherein: The second attachment member is inserted into the slotted opening while applying pressure and heat to the second attachment member.

4. The anvil according to claim 1, wherein: The second attachment member is made of a material that is capable of permanent deformation.

5. The anvil according to claim 1, wherein: The first material comprises a metal, and wherein the second material comprises a plastic material.

6. The anvil according to claim 5, wherein: The metal comprises titanium, and wherein the second material comprises a thermoset plastic.

7. The anvil according to claim 1, wherein: The anvil body also includes: an elongated slot; and The anvil further comprises an anvil cover configured to be attached to the anvil body to cover at least a portion of the upper end of the elongated slot and to retain the first flexible attachment portion within the opening in the distal end of the anvil body.

8. The anvil according to claim 7, wherein: The anvil cover is made of the first material and is configured to be welded to the anvil body.

9. The anvil according to claim 7, wherein: The tip member is attached to the distal end of the anvil body and the distal portion of the tip member extends below the staple forming lower surface.

10. The anvil according to claim 1, wherein: The second attachment member comprises: The main part; a transverse portion extending laterally from the body portion and including the tissue grasping feature thereon; and A permanently deformable retention feature on the body portion.

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