Clip applier and clip magazine

Abstract

A clip applier can be configured to releasably secure a surgical clip having a first leg member and a second member received in a cavity of a clip magazine. The clip applier can include a first jaw member and a second jaw member. The first jaw member can include a first clip engagement portion configured to engage the first leg member, and a first clip magazine engagement portion including at least one first flange extending laterally from the first clip engagement portion. The first flange can be configured to abut a first lateral surface of the cavity to align the first jaw member with the first leg member. The second jaw member can include a second clip engagement portion configured to engage the second leg member, and a second clip magazine engagement portion including at least one second flange extending laterally from the second engagement portion. The second flange can be configured to abut a second lateral surface of the cavity to align the second jaw member with the second leg member.

Description

[0001] Priority

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 700,031, filed July 18, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to medical devices, and more particularly to clip appliers and clip cartridges for applying surgical clips to tissue. BACKGROUND

[0004] Ligating tissue (e.g., blood vessels, lymph nodes, nerves, fallopian tubes, and cardiac tissue) is a common practice in many surgical procedures. Existing ligation systems generally include surgical clips, clip appliers, and / or clip cartridges. A user uses a clip applier to grasp a surgical clip from a clip cartridge and apply the surgical clip to tissue, such as to ligate a blood vessel (e.g., a vein or an artery). SUMMARY

[0005] The present inventors recognized a need to improve one or more features of a clip applier system. Existing clip applier systems do not have a fully matched interface between the clip cartridge, the surgical clip, and / or the jaw members of the clip applier. For example, it is often difficult for a user to load a surgical clip from a clip cartridge onto a clip applier. It is difficult to align the clip applier with the protrusion on the surgical clip due to the small size of the surgical clip and the lack of alignment features on the clip cartridge. Inadequate engagement between the two components can result in misalignment or dropout of the surgical clip during application. If the surgical clip contacts tissue while positioned in the body, the proximal portion of the clip can move laterally or "fish tail" relative to the clip applier due to a lack of stability at the proximal portion of the surgical clip. The disclosed clip appliers, clip cartridges, and / or clip applier systems are intended to alleviate and / or overcome one or more of the above-identified problems and / or other issues with the prior art.

[0006] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a clip applier configured to releasably secure a surgical clip contained within a clip cartridge cavity, the surgical clip can include a first clip leg member and a second clip leg member, the clip applier can include: a first jaw member having a first clip engagement portion configured to engage the first clip leg member and a first cartridge engagement portion having at least one first flange extending from a side of the first clip engagement portion, the at least one first flange configured to abut a first side surface of the clip cartridge such that the first jaw member is aligned with the first clip leg member; and a second jaw member having a second clip engagement portion configured to engage the second clip leg member and a second cartridge engagement portion having at least one second flange extending from a side of the second clip engagement portion, the at least one second flange configured to abut a second side surface of the clip cartridge such that the second jaw member is aligned with the second clip leg member.

[0007] In some embodiments of the clip applier, a width of the first clip cartridge engagement portion can be greater than a width of the first clip engagement portion, and a width of the second clip cartridge engagement portion can be greater than a width of the second clip engagement portion. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the first clip engagement portion and the second clip engagement portion can be configured to be inserted into the cavity to engage the surgical clip while the at least one first flange and the at least one second flange remain outside of the cavity. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the first clip engagement portion can include at least one recess configured to receive a boss on the first clip leg member, and the second clip engagement portion can include at least one recess configured to receive a boss on the second clip leg member. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the at least one recess of the first clip engagement portion can include spaced apart first and second recesses configured to receive first and second bosses on the first clip leg member, and the at least one recess of the second clip engagement portion can include spaced apart first and second recesses configured to engage first and second bosses on the second clip leg member. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the at least one first flange can include a pair of first flanges extending in opposite lateral directions of the first clip engagement portion, and the at least one second flange can include a pair of second flanges extending in opposite lateral directions of the second clip engagement portion. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the at least one first flange can be at least partially tapered, and the at least one second flange can be at least partially tapered. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the clip applier can further include a stabilizing portion of at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member configured to laterally stabilize a proximal portion of the surgical clip. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the stabilizing portion can include first and second protrusions configured to receive the proximal portion of the surgical clip therebetween. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the stabilizing portion can extend from an attachment portion of at least one of the first and second jaw members, and a width of the stabilizing portion can be less than a width of the attachment portion. In some embodiments of the clip applier, the at least one first flange and the at least one second flange can form a V-shape when the clip applier is in an open configuration.

[0008] A second aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method of loading a clip applier with a surgical clip from a clip cartridge. The surgical clip can include first and second clip leg members, and the clip applier can include first and second jaw members. The method can include: abutting at least one first flange of the first jaw member on a first side surface of the clip cartridge to align the first jaw member with the first clip leg member; and abutting at least one second flange of the second jaw member on a second side surface of the clip cartridge to align the second jaw member with the second clip leg member; engaging the first clip leg member with a first engagement portion of the first jaw member; and engaging the second clip leg member with a second engagement portion of the second jaw member.

[0009] In some embodiments of the method, the method can further include receiving a first boss in the at least one recess of the first jaw member to engage the first leg member, and receiving a second boss in the at least one recess of the second jaw member to engage the second leg member. In some embodiments of the method, the at least one first flange adjacent the first jaw member includes a pair of first flanges extending from a side of the first engagement portion adjacent the first side surface, and the at least one second flange adjacent the second jaw member includes a pair of second flanges extending from a side of the second engagement portion adjacent the second side surface. In some embodiments of the method, the method can further include inserting a stabilizing portion of the clip applier into a recess of the clip magazine to laterally stabilize a proximal portion of the surgical clip with the stabilizing portion.

[0010] A third aspect of the application relates to a clip magazine for a surgical clip. The clip magazine can include a base and a plurality of walls extending from the base, the plurality of walls configured to receive at least one cavity of a surgical clip, the plurality of walls including a first side surface and a second side surface, the first side surface and the second side surface forming an angle between about 15 degrees and 30 degrees, the first side surface and the second side surface configured to engage a clip applier in an open configuration during loading of the surgical clip.

[0011] In some embodiments of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the angle can be between about 18 degrees and 25 degrees. In some embodiments of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the side surfaces can be external to the at least one cavity. In some embodiments of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the clip magazine can further include a support member configured to support the surgical clip, the support member extending between the plurality of walls. In some embodiments of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the clip magazine can further include at least one recess configured to receive a stabilizing portion of the clip applier during loading of the surgical clip, the at least one recess extending along at least one of the plurality of walls. In some aspects of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the side surfaces can extend from the base. In some embodiments of the clip magazine of the third aspect, the clip magazine can further include a flexible insert configured to engage the surgical clip when received into the at least one cavity.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the application relates to a clip magazine for a surgical clip. The clip magazine can include a base and a first wall and a second wall extending from the base; a cavity between the first wall and the second wall, the cavity configured to receive a surgical clip; a support member extending between the first wall and the second wall, the support member configured to support the surgical clip; at least one recess configured to receive a jaw member of a clip applier during loading of the surgical clip, the at least one recess extending along at least one of the first wall and the second wall.

[0013] In some embodiments of the cartridge of the fourth aspect, the at least one recess may include a first recess between the support member and the first wall, and a second recess between the support member and the second wall. In some embodiments of the cartridge of the fourth aspect, the cartridge may further include at least one recessed portion forming the at least one recess. In some aspects of the cartridge of the fourth aspect, the at least one recessed portion may include a first recessed portion between the support member and the first wall, and a second recessed portion between the support member and the second wall. In some aspects of the cartridge of the fourth aspect, the length of the at least one recessed portion may be greater than the length of the support member. In some aspects of the cartridge of the fourth aspect, the plurality of walls may include a first side surface and a second side surface forming an angle between approximately 15 degrees and 30 degrees, the first side surface and the second side surface being configured to engage the clip applier in an open configuration during loading of the surgical clip. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] To facilitate an understanding of the invention, various aspects of the invention are illustrated by way of examples in the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 A side view of an exemplary embodiment of a clip applier in accordance with the present invention is shown.

[0016] Figure 2 The present invention shows a method for loading surgical clips. Figure 1 A side view of an exemplary embodiment of a clip applier is shown.

[0017] Figure 3 Shown Figures 1-2 A perspective view of an exemplary clip applier.

[0018] Figure 4A A perspective view of a first exemplary embodiment of a clip magazine housing surgical clips according to the present invention is shown.

[0019] Figure 4B Shown Figure 4A Side view of a first exemplary cartridge.

[0020] Figure 4C Shown Figure 4A -B is a top view of a first exemplary cartridge.

[0021] Figure 5A Shown Figures 1-3 A perspective view of an exemplary clip applier loaded with a clip from Figures 4A-4C A first exemplary clip cartridge for surgical clips.

[0022] Figure 5B Shown Figures 1-2 A side view of an exemplary clip applier loaded with a clip from Figures 4A-4C A first exemplary cartridge of surgical clips (not visible) is shown.

[0023] Figure 6A A perspective view of a second exemplary embodiment of a clip magazine according to the present application is shown.

[0024] Figure 6B A perspective view of a second exemplary clip magazine is shown. Figure 6A A top view of a second exemplary clip magazine.

[0025] The same reference numbers are used in the drawings and the following detailed description to refer to the same or like parts. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] The present application generally relates to clip magazines, clip appliers, and / or clip applier assemblies configured to facilitate loading and / or stabilization of surgical clips. In some embodiments, the clip applier can include clip magazine engagement portions and clip engagement portions on each of the first and second jaw members. The clip magazine engagement portions can include one or more flanges extending laterally from the distal end portions of the jaw members of the clip applier. The one or more flanges can interact with the clip magazine during clip loading and / or pickup. When in the open configuration, the one or more flanges can form an acute "V" shape. Further, in some embodiments, the acute angle can be formed between angled inner surfaces that create a taper of at least a portion of the one or more flanges. The acute angle of the one or more flanges can match the angle between the side surfaces of the clip magazine walls containing the surgical clip. Accordingly, the clip applier can engage and / or mate with the matching shape of the clip magazine, and the clip magazine can guide the clip applier to the ideal orientation to consistently and successfully engage the clip's bosses. The clip engagement portions can also be configured to be inserted into the cavity of the clip magazine to securely engage the surgical clip during loading and / or pickup.

[0027] In some embodiments, the clip applier can include a third contact point between the clip applier and the surgical clip. The third contact point can be formed between one or more protrusions of the clip applier and the proximal portion of the surgical clip to substantially increase the lateral stability of the surgical clip. The one or more protrusions can provide a lateral force to the hinge portion of the surgical clip to eliminate or reduce the fishtailing of the surgical clip during loading and / or application. The clip magazine can include one or more recesses configured to receive the protrusions when loading the surgical clip from the cavity of the clip magazine. Accordingly, the lateral width of the clip magazine engagement portions can be greater than the clip engagement portions and the stabilization portions to provide a secure mating engagement with the clip magazine. The clip magazine engagement portions can also have a height in the pivoting direction of the clip applier that is less than the clip engagement portions and the stabilization portions, such that the clip applier engages the surgical clip in the cavity of the clip magazine while the flanges remain outside of the cavity.

[0028] Figure 1 A side view of the clip applier 100 is shown. Figure 2 A side view of the clip applier 100 loading the surgical clip 200 is shown. Figure 3A perspective view of the clip applier 100 without the surgical clip 200 is shown. As shown, the clip applier 100 can include a handle mechanism 12 coupled to a proximal end of a shaft 14 and a jaw mechanism 16 pivotably coupled to a distal end of the shaft 14. The handle mechanism 12 can include an actuator trigger 18 configured to actuate the jaw mechanism 16 between open and closed configurations.

[0029] The surgical clip 200 can include a first clip leg member 202 and a second clip leg member 204 pivotally coupled at a hinge portion 206. The surgical clip 200 can include one or more latching or locking mechanisms. For example, the first clip leg member 202 can include a distal end portion having a hook member 208 and the second clip leg member 204 can include a distal end portion having a pointed end member 210. The first clip leg member 202 and / or the second clip leg member 204 can be configured to pivot relative to one another at the hinge portion 206 between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The hook member 208 can be configured to deflect around the pointed end member 210 to lock and / or latch the surgical clip 200 in the closed configuration. The surgical clip 200 can further include one or more engagement portions. For example, the first clip leg member 202 can include one or more bosses 212 on a distal end portion proximal of the hook member 208 and the second clip leg member 204 can include one or more bosses 214 on a distal end portion of the pointed end member 210. The one or more bosses 212, 214 can be secured to the clip applier 100 during loading and / or application of the surgical clip 200 to tissue. Exemplary embodiments of the surgical clip 200 are further disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 5,100,416 and 9,445,820, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0030] The jaw mechanism 16 of the clip applier 100 can be configured to load the surgical clip 200 from the clip cartridge 300, 400 (e.g., Figures 4A-5B and Figure 6A -B) apply the surgical clip 200 to tissue. The jaw mechanism 16 can include a first jaw member 102 configured to engage the first clip leg member 202 and a second jaw member 104 configured to engage the second clip leg member 204. The first jaw member 102 and / or the second jaw member 104 can be configured to pivot relative to one another, e.g., via a hinge pin 128 (e.g., Figure 5A ) to move the surgical clip 200 between the open configuration and the closed configuration.

[0031] The first jaw member 102 can include a first clip engagement portion 112 configured to engage a distal end portion of the first clip leg member 202 and a second clip engagement portion 114 configured to engage a distal end portion of the second clip leg member 204. As Figure 3As further shown, the first clip engagement portion 112 can include first and second walls or protrusions 116 spaced apart by a channel 118. The first clip leg member 202 can be received in the channel 118. Each of the first and second protrusions 116 can have a recess 124 configured to receive one or more bosses 212 of the first clip leg member 202. Similarly, the second clip engagement portion 114 can include first and second walls or protrusions 120 spaced apart by a channel 122. The second clip leg member 204 can be received in the channel 122. Each of the first and second protrusions 120 can have a recess 126 configured to receive one or more bosses 214 of the second clip leg member 204.

[0032] The first jaw member 102 can include a first cartridge engagement portion including at least one first flange 140 extending laterally from the first clip engagement portion 112. For example, the first jaw member 102 can include a pair of first flanges 140 extending in opposite lateral directions from the first clip engagement portion 112. The second jaw member 104 can include a second cartridge engagement portion including at least one second flange 142 extending laterally from the second clip engagement portion 114. For example, the second jaw member 104 can include a pair of second flanges 142 extending in opposite lateral directions from the second clip engagement portion 114. In other words, the clip engagement portions 112, 114 can extend in a pivoting direction toward the opposing jaw member 102, 104, and the at least one flange 140, 142 extends laterally to the pivoting direction and the outer periphery of the clip engagement portions 112, 114. To facilitate discussion of the width of the flanges 140, 142, the cartridge engagement portion of each jaw member 102, 104 can be considered to include an outer portion comprising one or more opposing flanges 140, 142 and an inner portion to which the clip applier 100 is attached to the clip engagement portions 112, 114 and bridges the clip engagement portions 112, 114.

[0033] The clip engagement portions 112, 114 and / or the flanges 140, 142 can be configured to align the clip applier 100 with the surgical clip 200 when the clip applier 100 is housed within the cartridge 300, 400. For example, the clip engagement portion 112 can be inserted into the cavity 304, 404 (e.g., Figures 4A-5B ) of the cartridge 300, 400 and engage the inner surface to prevent and / or reduce lateral and / or rotational movement relative to the cartridge 300, 400. The flanges 140, 142 can engage the lateral surface 310 (e.g., Figures 4A-5B) to guide the clip applier 100 longitudinally relative to the cartridge 300, 400, as discussed further herein. The flanges 140, 142 can have a height in the pivoting direction that is substantially less than the height of the protrusions 116, 120. The flanges 140, 142 can have an angled inner surface 143 extending along at least a portion of the flanges 140, 142, such that the flanges 140, 142 are at least partially tapered and decrease in height in the distal direction. The angled inner surface 143 of the flanges 140, 142 can form a flush engagement with the side surface 310 of the cartridge 300, 400, as shown in Figure 5B some embodiments, the angled inner surface 143 can extend substantially the entire length of the flanges 140, 142.

[0034] The jaw mechanism 16 can include a stabilizing portion 130 of one or both of the first jaw member 102 and the second jaw member 104. The stabilizing portion 130 can be configured to engage and / or receive a proximal portion (e.g., the hinge portion 206) of the surgical clip 200. For example, the stabilizing portion 130 can include first and second protrusions 132 spaced apart by a channel 136. The proximal portion of the surgical clip 200 can be received within the channel 136, and the first and second protrusions 132 can be configured to apply a lateral force to the proximal portion (e.g., the hinge portion 206) of the surgical clip 200 to laterally stabilize the surgical clip 200 and / or prevent or reduce fish tailing. The stabilizing portion 130 can not abut the surgical clip 200 proximally to allow the clip leg members 202, 204 to elongate when the hook member 208 is deflected about the tip member 210 during closure. The stabilizing portion 130 can be spaced apart from the second jaw member 104 in an open configuration (not shown) and received in the widened portion 123 of the channel 122 of the second jaw member 104 in a closed configuration (not shown) when on the first jaw member 102. Figures 1-3 However, the stabilizing portion 130 can have other configurations. For example, the first and second protrusions 132 can extend from opposing jaw members 102, 104. In this example embodiment, the first and second protrusions 132 can still be laterally offset to apply a lateral force to the surgical clip 200 while preventing interference when opening and closing the clip applier 100. The channel 136 between the protrusions 132 can be in communication with the channel 118 and / or the channel 122. The stabilizing portion 130 can be releasably secured and / or integrated to at least one of the first jaw member 102 and the second jaw member 104. Example features and embodiments of the stabilizing portion 130 are further disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 927,763, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

[0035] The stabilizing portion 130 can extend from at least one attachment portion 134 of the first jaw member 102. The width of the stabilizing portion 130 can be less than the width of the attachment portion 134 to facilitate insertion of the stabilizing portion 130 into the cavity 304, 404 of the clip cartridge 300, 400 to engage the surgical clip 200. The stabilizing portion 130 can also be configured to align the clip applier 100 with the surgical clip 200 when the clip applier 100 is housed within the clip cartridge 300, 400. For example, the stabilizing portion 130 can be inserted into the clip cartridge 300, 400 to receive the surgical clip 200 in the channel 136, while the protrusion 132 is configured to engage an inner surface of the cavity 304, 404 to prevent or reduce lateral and / or rotational movement of the clip applier 100 relative to the clip cartridge 300, 400, and the attachment portion 134 remains outside of the cavity 304, 404. The distal face of the attachment portion 134 can engage a portion of the wall 302.

[0036] Accordingly, to facilitate cooperation with the clip cartridge 300, 400, the first cartridge engagement portion can have a width (e.g., between opposite sides of the relative flanges 140, 142) that is greater than the width of the first clip engagement portion (e.g., between opposite sides of the relative protrusions 116, 120) and the width of the stabilizing portion (e.g., between opposite sides of the relative protrusion 132). The cartridge engagement portion can also have a height (e.g., a distance between the inner surface 143 and the outer surface of the flanges 140, 142) in the pivoting direction of the clip applier that is less than the height of the clip engagement portion (e.g., a distance between the inner and outer ends of the protrusions 116, 120) and the height of the stabilizing portion (e.g., a distance between the inner and outer ends of the stabilizing portion 130) such that the clip engagement portions 112, 114 and the stabilizing portion 130 extend further inward into the cavity 304, 404 while the flanges remain outside of the cavity 304, 404. The cartridge engagement portion, the clip engagement portions 112, 114, and / or the stabilizing portion 130 can be integrally formed in each of the first jaw member 102 and the second jaw member 104.

[0037] Figure 4A -C illustrates a first embodiment of a clip cartridge 300 loaded with surgical clips 200. The clip cartridge 300 can include a plurality of walls 302 defining one or more cavities 304 therebetween. The one or more cavities 304 can receive one or more surgical clips 200 in a storage configuration. The surgical clip 200 can be supported by one or more support members 306 positioned in the cavity 304. For example, the hinge portion 206 can engage the support member 306 and the first clip leg member 202 and the second clip leg member 204 can span opposite sides of the support member 306. The support member 306 can extend between adjacent walls 302 and / or recessed portions 308.

[0038] The walls 302 can include a plurality of surfaces. For example, the walls 302 can include one or more side surfaces 310, one or more intermediate surfaces 312, and one or more upper convex surfaces 314. The side surfaces 310 can extend from the base 316 to the intermediate surfaces 312, and the intermediate surfaces 312 can be connected at the upper portion by the upper convex surfaces 314. Each wall 302 can have a first side surface 310 and a second side surface 310 on opposite sides. The first and second side surfaces 310 can be substantially flat and form an acute angle therebetween. The acute angle of the side surfaces 310 can match the acute angle formed by the flanges 140, 142 of the first and second jaw members 102, 104 in the open configuration. Thus, when the clip applier 100 is inserted into the clip cassette 300 to load the surgical clip 200, the first and second surfaces 310 can engage and / or guide the first and second jaw members 102, 104 in the open configuration. The angle between the first and second side surfaces 310 can be optimized for the size of the surgical clip 200 and abut the open configuration of the first and second jaw members 102, 104. In some embodiments, the angle between the first and second side surfaces 310 can be between about 15 and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle between the first and second side surfaces 310 can be between about 18 and 25 degrees. The intermediate surfaces 312 can form a greater angle therebetween than the side surfaces 310 to widen the walls 302 and allow the surgical clip 200 to be received between adjacent walls 302. The side surfaces 310 can be external or lateral to the cavity 304 and abut the flanges 140, 142 of the clip applier 100.

[0039] One or more notches or recessed portions 308 can extend along the wall 302 and define a notch or recess 309 configured to receive the stabilizing portion 130 of the clip applier 100. The recessed portions 308 are positioned on opposite ends of the support member 306 between the support member 306 and the wall 302. The recessed portions 308 can have a length extending along the wall 302 that is greater than the length of the support member 306, and the recessed portions 308 can support the sides of the clip leg members 202, 204 of the surgical clip 200. As shown, the recessed portions 308 can be embodied as protrusions extending from the wall 302, and the recessed portions 308 can define a substantially flat, vertically facing shoulder extending along the wall 302. However, it is contemplated that the recessed portions 308 can be embodied in many other shapes and configurations. Thus, the recess 309 can extend vertically between the respective recessed portions 308 and the upper ledge 314, and can extend laterally between the respective support member 306 and the wall 302. Although the cavity 304 and the recess 309 can be described herein as distinct regions, it should be readily apparent that the cavity 304 and the recess 309 can be in communication with one another as a continuous open region of the clip cartridge 300. Thus, the recess 309 can be an upper portion of the cavity 304 that supports the sides of the surgical clip 200, and is configured to receive or house the stabilizing portion 130. The recess 309 can create a width of the cavity 304 extending between the wall 302 that is at least twice the width of the surgical clip 200 to receive the stabilizing portion 130, and to facilitate the mating of the surgical clip 200 as discussed herein.

[0040] As Figure 4A As further shown in -C, the base 316 can include a bottom 326 and outer walls 328. The wall 302 can extend from the bottom 326 of the base 316 and between the outer walls 328 of the base 316. The wall 302, the support member 306, the recessed portions 308, and the base 316 can be integrally formed. For example, the components can be a one-piece plastic body and formed by injection molding. However, it is contemplated that one or more components can be separately formed and attached by, for example, welding or adhesive.

[0041] The clip cartridge 300 can further include a flexible insert having tabs that extend into the cavity 304 and secure the surgical clip 200, as discussed with respect to Figure 6A As shown in the clip cartridge 400 of -B. The tabs can engage the clip leg members 202, 204 and / or the bosses 212, 214 to prevent the surgical clip 200 from falling out of the clip cartridge 300. The tabs can be deflected downward when the jaw members 102, 104 are inserted into the clip cartridge 300 to release the surgical clip 200. The flexible insert can be secured to the base 316 by a hole of the flexible insert that receives a pin 318 extending from the base 316.

[0042] Figure 5A FIG. 1B shows clip applier 100 positioned in cartridge 300 with surgical clip 200 (not visible). Cartridge 300 can receive surgical clip 200 in a stored configuration within cavity 304. When the clip applier is loaded with surgical clip 200, cartridge 300 can receive clip applier 100 in an open configuration. For example, one or more clip engaging portions 112, 114 of clip applier 100 can be inserted into cavity 304 and engage foot members 202, 204 of surgical clip 200. Stabilizing portion 130 can be inserted into recess 309 and receive the proximal end of surgical clip 200, while attachment portion 134 can be sized not to be received within cavity 304. Flanges 140, 142 can be inserted into cartridge 300 and abut side surface 310 while remaining outside of cavity 304. In this sense, first jaw member 102 and second jaw member 104 may include a first portion sized to be received in cavity 304 of cartridge 300 and a second portion sized not to be received in cavity 304 of cartridge 300. Similarly, stabilizing portion 130 may include a first portion (protrusion 132) sized to be received in recess 309 of cartridge 300 and a second portion 134 sized not to be received in recess 309 of cartridge 300.

[0043] like Figure 5B As shown, when clip applier 100 is in the open configuration, angle α between flanges 140, 142 can match angle α between side surfaces 310. In some embodiments, angle α can be between about 15 degrees and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, angle α can be between about 18 degrees and 25 degrees. Side surfaces 310 can guide jaw members 102, 104 into alignment with clip applier 100 and ensure proper engagement of foot members 202, 204. For example, as Figure 2 As shown, side surface 310 can ensure that bosses 212, 214 are properly received in recesses 124, 126. Angle a of flanges 140, 142 can be defined by angled inner surface 143.

[0044] Figure 6A-B illustrates a second embodiment of a clip cassette 400. The clip cassette 400 can include features similar to the clip cassette 300 and are similarly indicated in the figures and are not discussed herein for brevity. The clip cassette 400 can include a plurality of walls 402 that define one or more cavities 404 therebetween. The one or more cavities 404 can receive one or more surgical clips 200 in a storage configuration. The surgical clip 200 can be supported by one or more support members 406 positioned in the cavity 404. For example, the hinge portion 206 can engage the support member 406 and the first clip leg member 202 and the second clip leg member 204 can span opposite sides of the support member 406. The support member 406 can extend between adjacent walls 402 and / or recessed portions 408.

[0045] The walls 402 can include a plurality of surfaces. For example, the walls 302 can include one or more side surfaces 410 and one or more upper convex surfaces 414. The side surfaces 410 can extend from a base 416 and join at an upper portion by the upper convex surface 414. Each wall 402 can have a first side surface 410 and a second side surface 410 on opposite sides. The first side surface 410 and the second side surface 410 can be substantially flat and define an acute angle therebetween. The acute angle of the side surfaces 410 can match the acute angle defined by the flanges 140, 142 of the first and second jaw members 102, 104 in the open configuration. Thus, when the clip applier 100 is inserted into the clip cassette 400 to load the surgical clip 200, the first surface 410 and the second surface 410 can engage and / or guide the first jaw member 102 and the second jaw member 104 in the open configuration. In some embodiments, the angle between the first side surface 410 and the second side surface 410 can be between about 15 degrees and 30 degrees. In some embodiments, the angle between the first side surface 410 and the second side surface 410 can be between about 18 degrees and 25 degrees. The walls 402 can include intermediate surfaces (corresponding to the intermediate surfaces 312 of Figures 4A-5B the walls 302) having a decreasing length such that the size of the clip cassette 400 can be set to accommodate smaller surgical clips 200. The side surfaces 410 can be external or lateral to the cavities 404 to abut the flanges 140, 142 of the clip applier 100.

[0046] One or more recessed portions 408 can extend along the wall 402 and can define a recess 409 configured to receive the stabilizing portion 130 of the clip applier 100. The recessed portions 408 can be positioned on opposite ends of the support member 406, between the support member 406 and the wall 402. The recessed portions 408 can have a length extending along the wall 402 that is greater than the length of the support member 406, and the recessed portions 408 can support the sides of the clip leg members 202, 204 of the surgical clip 200. As shown, the recessed portions 408 can be embodied as protrusions extending from the wall 402, and the recessed portions 408 can define a substantially flat, vertically facing shoulder extending along the wall 402. However, it is contemplated that the recessed portions 408 can be embodied in many other shapes and configurations. Thus, the recess 409 can extend vertically between the respective recessed portions 408 and the upper ledge 414, and can extend laterally between the respective support members 406 and the wall 402. Although the cavity 404 and the recess 409 can be described herein as distinct regions, it should be readily apparent that the cavity 404 and the recess 409 can be in communication with one another as a continuous open region of the clip cartridge 400. Thus, the recess 409 can be an upper portion of the cavity 404 of the sides of the surgical clip 200, and is configured to receive or house the stabilizing portion 130. The recess 409 can create a width of the cavity 404 extending between the wall 402 that is at least twice the width of the surgical clip 200 to receive the stabilizing portion 130, and to facilitate the mating of the surgical clip 200, as discussed herein.

[0047] As Figure 6A As further shown in -B, the base 416 can include a bottom (not shown) and an outer wall 428. The wall 402 can extend from the bottom of the base 416 and between the outer wall 428 of the base 416. The wall 402, the support member 406, the recessed portions 408, and the base 416 can be integrally formed. For example, the components can be a one-piece plastic body and can be formed by injection molding. However, it is contemplated that one or more of the components can be formed separately and attached by, for example, welding or adhesive.

[0048] As Figure 6AAs shown in FIG. 4B, the clip cartridge 400 can include a flexible insert 420 having tabs 422 that extend into the cavity 404 and secure the surgical clip 200 (not shown). The tabs 422 can engage the clip leg members 202, 204 and / or the bosses 212, 214 to prevent the surgical clip 200 from falling out of the clip cartridge 400. The tabs 422 can be deflected downward when the jaw members 102, 104 are inserted into the clip cartridge 400 to release the surgical clip 200. The flexible insert 420 can be secured to the base 416 by holes 424 on the flexible insert 420 that receive pins 418 extending from the base 416. Further discussion regarding the retention of the surgical clip 200 and / or the manufacture of the clip cartridge 300, 400 can be found in U.S. Patent No. 6,880,699, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] Many features and advantages of the present application are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is intended that the appended claims cover all such features and advantages of the present application within the true spirit and scope of the present application. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the present application to the exact construction and operation described herein. Accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents can be resorted to falling within the scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A clip applier configured to releasably secure a surgical clip housed in a cavity of a clip magazine, the surgical clip comprising a first clip leg member and a second clip leg member, the clip applier comprising: a first jaw member comprising a first clip engagement portion and a first clip magazine engagement portion, the first clip engagement portion comprising at least one recess configured to receive a boss of the first clip leg member, the first clip magazine engagement portion comprising at least one first flange extending laterally from the first clip engagement portion, the at least one first flange configured to abut a first side surface of the clip magazine to align the first jaw member with the first clip leg member, an angled inner surface of the at least one first flange engaging the first side surface of the clip magazine; a second jaw member comprising a second clip engagement portion and a second clip magazine engagement portion, the second clip engagement portion comprising at least one recess configured to receive a boss of the second clip leg member, the second clip magazine engagement portion comprising at least one second flange extending laterally from the second clip engagement portion, the at least one second flange configured to abut a second side surface of the clip magazine to align the second jaw member with the second clip leg member, an angled inner surface of the at least one second flange engaging the second side surface of the clip magazine.

2. The clip applier of claim 1, wherein: a width of the first clip magazine engagement portion is greater than a width of the first clip engagement portion, a width of the second clip magazine engagement portion is greater than a width of the second clip engagement portion.

3. The clip applier of claim 1, wherein, the first and second clip engagement portions are configured to be inserted into the cavity to engage the surgical clip while the at least one first flange and the at least one second flange remain outside of the cavity.

4. The clip applier of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: the at least one recess of the first clip engagement portion comprises first and second spaced apart recesses configured to receive first and second bosses on the first clip leg member, respectively, the at least one recess of the second clip engagement portion comprises first and second spaced apart recesses configured to engage first and second bosses on the second clip leg member, respectively.

5. The clip applier of claim 1 or 2, wherein: the at least one first flange comprises a pair of first flanges extending in opposite lateral directions from the first clip engagement portion, the at least one second flange comprises a pair of second flanges extending in opposite lateral directions from the second clip engagement portion.

6. The clip applier of claim 1 or 2, wherein: the at least one first flange is at least partially tapered, the at least one second flange is at least partially tapered.

7. The clip applier of claim 1, further comprising a stabilizing portion of at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member, the stabilizing portion configured to laterally stabilize a proximal portion of the surgical clip.

8. The clip applier of Claim 7, wherein, The stabilizing portion includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the clip applier configured to receive a proximal portion of the surgical clip between the first and second protrusions to laterally stabilize the proximal portion of the surgical clip.

9. The clip applier of one of claims 7 and 8, wherein, The stabilizing portion extends from an attachment portion of at least one of the first jaw member and the second jaw member, the stabilizing portion having a width that is less than a width of the attachment portion.

10. The clip applier of any one of Claims 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one first flange and the at least one second flange form a V-shape when the clip applier is in an open configuration.

11. A method of loading a clip applier with a surgical clip from a clip magazine, the surgical clip including a first clip leg member and a second clip leg member, the clip applier including a first jaw member and a second jaw member, the method comprising: abutting at least one first flange of a first clip magazine engagement portion of the first jaw member on a first side surface of the clip magazine to align the first jaw member with the first clip leg member, an angled inner surface of the at least one first flange engaging the first side surface of the clip magazine, the at least one first flange of the first clip magazine engagement portion extending laterally of a first clip engagement portion of the first jaw member; abutting at least one second flange of a second clip magazine engagement portion of the second jaw member on a second side surface of the clip magazine to align the second jaw member with the second clip leg member, an angled inner surface of the at least one second flange engaging the second side surface of the clip magazine, the at least one second flange of the second clip magazine engagement portion extending laterally of the second clip engagement portion of the second jaw member; engaging the first clip leg member of the surgical clip with the first clip engagement portion of the first jaw member; and engaging the second clip leg member of the surgical clip with the second clip engagement portion of the second jaw member.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: receiving a first boss in at least one recess of the first jaw member to engage the first clip leg member; and receiving a second boss in at least one recess of the second jaw member to engage the second clip leg member.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein: abutting the at least one first flange of the first jaw member includes abutting a pair of first flanges extending laterally of the first engagement portion on a pair of the first side surfaces, abutting the at least one second flange of the second jaw member includes abutting a pair of second flanges extending laterally of the second engagement portion on a pair of the second side surfaces. further comprising inserting a stabilizing portion of the clip applier into a recess of the clip magazine to laterally stabilize a proximal portion of the surgical clip with the stabilizing portion, wherein the stabilizing portion of the clip applier includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, the clip applier configured to receive the proximal portion of the surgical clip between the first and second protrusions. ​ 14. The method of claim 11 or 12, wherein, ​

Images