Actuator support structure for surgical stapler

Abstract

The present invention discloses a surgical stapler, which comprises a first elongated member and a second elongated member, a clamping member and a firing assembly. The second elongated member is configured to receive a staple cartridge. The clamping member can be operated to releasably clamp the first elongated member against the second elongated member. The firing assembly can translate to fire the staple cartridge. The firing assembly comprises a sliding member and an actuator, which is configured to be selectively actuated by a user. The sliding member comprises an internal engagement feature structure and an external engagement feature structure. The actuator comprises an internal engagement feature structure and an external engagement feature structure. The internal engagement feature structure of the actuator is configured to engage with the internal engagement feature structure of the sliding member at a first interface when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member. The external engagement feature structure of the actuator is configured to engage the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member at a second interface when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

Description

Background Art

[0001] In some surgical procedures such as gastrointestinal anastomosis, it may be desirable to clamp one or more tissue layers, cut through the clamped layers, and simultaneously drive the nail through the layers to substantially seal the cut tissue layers together near the cut ends of the tissue layers. A type of such instrument that can be used in such surgery is a linear surgical stapler, also referred to as a "linear cutter". A linear surgical stapler generally includes a first half (referred to as a "bin half" or "reload half") and a second half (referred to as an "anvil half"), the first half having a distal jaw configured to support a staple cartridge (or "reload"), and the second half having a distal jaw supporting an anvil surface with a staple forming feature structure. The stapler also includes a movable clamping lever, which is configured to releasably clamp these stapler halves together. These stapler halves are configured to pivot relative to each other to receive and clamp the tissue between the two distal jaws when the clamping lever is closed. The firing assembly of stapler is configured to be actuated to cut the clamped layer and drive nail to pass the tissue on either side of cutting line simultaneously.After firing stapler, clamping lever can be opened and stapler half part separates to release the tissue of cutting off and stitching.

[0002] While various surgical stapling instruments and associated components have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventor has made or used the invention described in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

[0004] Figure 1 A distal perspective view of an exemplary linear surgical stapler is shown showing the cartridge half and the anvil half of the stapler coupled together with the clamping levers of the cartridge half in a fully closed position;

[0005] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a linear surgical stapler;

[0006] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of a staple cartridge assembly of a linear surgical stapler;

[0007] Figure 4A Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a linear surgical stapler of , showing the stapler halves coupled together at their proximal ends with the clamping lever in an open position;

[0008] Figure 4B Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a linear surgical stapler of , showing the stapler halves coupled together with the clamping lever in a partially closed position;

[0009] Figure 4C Shows Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a linear surgical stapler of , showing the stapler halves coupled together with the clamping lever in a fully closed position;

[0010] Figure 5A Shows Figure 1 A distal perspective view of a linear surgical stapler of , showing the stapler actuator in a proximal, pre-fired position;

[0011] Figure 5B Shows Figure 1 A distal perspective view of a linear surgical stapler of , showing the actuator in a distal, fired position;

[0012] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A distal perspective view of a firing assembly of a linear surgical stapler;

[0013] Figure 7 Shows relative to Figure 1 A top view of an angled actuator of a linear surgical stapler cover;

[0014] Figure 8 Shows Figure 6 An exploded proximal perspective view of a firing assembly of Figure 2 a frame sliding actuator, an upper body portion, a lower body portion and a central body portion;

[0015] Fig. 9 Shows Figure 6 an exploded side elevation view of a firing assembly and frame of the invention, wherein the actuator, the upper body portion, the lower body portion, and the center body portion each include an internal engagement feature;

[0016] Fig.10 Shows Figure 6 A proximal cross-sectional perspective view of a linear surgical stapler of , wherein the internal coupling features of the first body portion and the second body portion are engaged with the internal coupling features of the actuator;

[0017] Fig.11 Shows Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary alternative firing assembly of a linear surgical stapler of the present invention, wherein the firing assembly includes an exemplary actuator and a trigger that can be moved along Figure 2 An exemplary slide member for sliding the frame;

[0018] Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 An exploded perspective view of a firing assembly of Figure 2 a frame sliding actuator, an upper body portion, a lower body portion and a central body portion;

[0019] Fig.13 Shows Fig.11 A side elevation view of a firing assembly;

[0020] Fig.14 Shows Fig.11 an exploded side elevation view of a firing assembly of , wherein the actuator, the upper body portion, the lower body portion, and the center body portion each include an internal engagement feature structure and an external engagement feature structure;

[0021] Fig.15 Shown from another perspective Fig.11 a cut-away perspective view of a firing assembly of , wherein the internal engagement features of the slide engage the internal engagement features of the actuator, and the external internal engagement features of the slide engage the external engagement features of the actuator;

[0022] Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 an enlarged cross-sectional perspective view of an enlarged portion of an excitation assembly;

[0023] Fig.17 Shown from another angle Fig.11 a perspective view of a firing assembly of , wherein the internal engagement features of the slide engage the internal engagement features of the actuator, and the external engagement features of the slide couple with the external engagement features of the actuator;

[0024] Fig.18 A proximal perspective view of an exemplary alternative linear surgical stapler is shown with upper and lower external protrusions of the actuator engaging guide tracks of the covers of the cartridge half and the anvil half; and

[0025] Fig.19 Shown with Fig.18 A guide rail of a cover of a linear surgical stapler is engaged Fig.18 Top view of the upper protrusion of the actuator.

[0026] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be performed in a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention; however, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The following description of some examples of the present invention should not be used to limit the scope of the present invention. According to the following description shown by way of example, other examples, features, aspects, embodiments and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and a best mode is contemplated for implementing the present invention. As will be appreciated, the present invention can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which do not depart from the present invention. Therefore, the drawings and description should be considered as illustrative and non-restrictive in nature.

[0028] For clarity of disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a surgeon or other operator holding a surgical instrument having a distal surgical end effector. The term "proximal" refers to a position where an element is disposed closer to the surgeon, and the term "distal" refers to a position where an element is disposed closer to the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument and further away from the surgeon. In addition, to the extent that spatial terms such as "upper," "lower," "vertical," "horizontal," and the like are used herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, it should be understood that such terms are used for exemplary descriptive purposes only and are not intended to be limiting or absolute. In this regard, it should be understood that surgical instruments such as those disclosed herein may be used in a variety of orientations and positions that are not limited to those shown and described herein.

[0029] As used herein, the terms "about" and "approximately" for any numerical values ​​or ranges represent a suitable dimensional tolerance that allows the part or collection of components to function for its intended purpose as described herein.

[0030] I. Exemplary Linear Surgical Stapler

[0031] A. Overview of Linear Surgical Staplers

[0032] Figure 1 and Figure 2An exemplary linear surgical stapler (10) (also referred to as a "linear cutter") suitable for use in a variety of cutting and stapling procedures (such as gastrointestinal anastomosis procedures) is shown. The linear surgical stapler (10) includes a cartridge half (12) (also referred to as a "reloading half") and an anvil half (14), which are configured to be releasably coupled together to clamp tissue between the cartridge half and the anvil half. The cartridge half (12) includes a frame (16). The frame (16) is shown to be generally U-shaped to form an elongated channel. The frame (16) includes a proximal frame portion (18), a distal frame portion (20), and a pair of upright side flanges (22) arranged between the proximal frame portion and the distal frame portion. The proximal frame portion (18) slidably holds a portion of the firing assembly (34). The distal jaw portion (20) supports the staple cartridge (80) (or "reloading").

[0033] The cartridge half (12) further includes a clamping lever (24) pivotally coupled to the underside of the frame (16) in general alignment with the side flange (22). The clamping lever (24) includes an elongated lever arm (26) having a free proximal end and a distal end, the elongated lever arm being pivotally coupled to the frame (16) using a pivot pin (28). A pair of opposing jaws (30) extend distally from the distal end of the lever arm (26) along the flange (22) of the frame (16). Each jaw (30) includes a respective elongated slot (32) having a closed proximal end and an open distal end, and the elongated slot defines an upper cam surface and a lower cam surface configured to engage a respective latch projection (56) of the anvil half (14). As described below, the clamping lever (24) is operable to pivot between an open position and a closed position relative to the frame (16) to releasably clamp the anvil half (14) against the cartridge half (12) to capture tissue layers therebetween.

[0034] like Figure 2 As best shown, the firing assembly (34) of the cartridge half (12) includes a slide (36) (shown schematically) slidably retained within the proximal frame portion (18) of the frame (16), an actuator (38) (or "firing knob") movably coupled to the slide (36), and a slide (100) (shown schematically) extending distally from the slide (36) and configured to engage with a staple cartridge (80) received therein. Figure 3 The actuator (38) of the present example is configured to be able to pivot about the proximal end of the cartridge half (12) to provide "double-sided firing" of the stapler (10). Specifically, the actuator (38) can be positioned along either side of the cartridge half (12) to perform a distal firing stroke, so that the stapler (10) can be conveniently fired in a variety of orientations during a surgical procedure.

[0035] The slide (36) is configured to be movable within the proximal frame portion (18) by an actuator (38). Figure 2 and Figure 5A The proximal original position and Figure 5B The distal firing position shown can be driven translationally. In the proximal home position, the slider (36) abuts against the post (40) fixed at the proximal end of the frame (16). The free end of the post (40) supports a laterally extending pivot pin (42). As described below, when the stapler halves (12, 14) are fully coupled together and the clamping lever (24) is closed, the actuator (38) can be driven distally. The actuator (38) is advanced distally along either side of the stapler (10) so as to drive the slider (36) and the elongated actuating beam distally, which in turn drives the slider (100) distally through the staple cartridge (80). As described below, the slider (100) passes through the staple cartridge (80) and translates distally to allow simultaneous suturing and cutting of the tissue clamped between the stapler halves (12, 14).

[0036] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As best shown, the anvil half (14) of the linear surgical stapler (10) includes an elongated anvil channel (50) having a proximal frame portion (52) and a distal jaw portion (54). The anvil channel (50) also includes a latch feature structure in the form of a pair of protrusions (56) extending laterally from the middle portion of the anvil channel (50) in a direction toward the magazine half (12). Each latch protrusion (56) may include a circular rotating cover configured to be captured in the slot (32) of the corresponding clamping lever jaw (30) when the anvil half (14) is coupled to the magazine half (12) and the clamping lever (24) is pivoted from the open position to the closed position, as described below. A pair of hooks (58) extend proximally from the proximal end of the frame portion (52) and are configured to releasably capture the opposite lateral ends of the proximal pivot pin (42) of the magazine half (12). The distal jaw portion (54) supports an anvil surface in the form of an anvil plate (60) having a plurality of staple forming recesses (not shown) and additionally supports a distal end member (62). In other versions of the stapler (10), the anvil surface may be integrally formed with the distal jaw portion (54) of the anvil channel (50) or otherwise rigidly connected to the distal jaw portion.

[0037] The anvil half (14) of the present invention also includes a nail height adjustment mechanism (64) mounted to the middle portion of the anvil channel (50). The nail height adjustment mechanism (64) is operably connected to the anvil plate (60), for example, via one or more cam feature structures (not shown), and includes a pair of user-engageable protrusions (66). The longitudinal adjustment of the protrusions (66) between a plurality of predetermined positions causes the anvil plate (60) to move laterally relative to the distal jaw portion (54) of the anvil channel (50). This enables the lateral gap distance between the anvil plate (60) and the platform (94) of the nail magazine (80) to be adjusted, which defines the height of the formed nail. When suturing tissue of greater thickness, a larger gap distance can be set, and therefore a larger nail height can be set. Conversely, when suturing tissue of less thickness, a smaller gap distance can be set, and therefore a smaller nail height can be set. It should be understood that the nail height adjustment mechanism (64) can be omitted in some versions, in which case the anvil surface can be fixed relative to the anvil channel (50). For example, the anvil surface may be integrally formed with or otherwise securely secured to the distal jaw portion (54).

[0038] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the linear surgical stapler (10) also includes a plurality of covers (70,72,74), which cover the selected portion of the stapler (10) and promote the operator's effective grasping and manipulation of the stapler (10) during use. In the present example, the bin half (12) includes a cover (70), which covers the outward-facing side of the proximal frame portion (18) of the frame (16). The bin half (12) also includes a cover (72), which covers the outward-facing side of the clamping lever (24) and is configured to pivot relative to the frame (16) and the cover (70) with the clamping lever (24). The anvil half (14) includes a cover (74), which covers the outward-facing side of the proximal frame portion (52) of the anvil channel (50), including a proximal hook (58). Each cover (70,72,74) can be connected to its corresponding component of the stapler (10) by any suitable means obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art. Additionally, each cover (70, 72, 74) may be formed from one or more materials and provided with a texture adapted to enhance an operator's effective grip of the cover (70, 72, 74) to enable safe and effective use of the stapler (10) during a surgical procedure.

[0039] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, the nail magazine (80) of the example of the present invention is an assembly, which includes a magazine body (82), a disk (84) covering the open lower side of the magazine body (82), and a plurality of nail drivers (86) housed in the magazine body (82), wherein each nail driver is configured to be able to drive a corresponding nail (88). The magazine body (82) includes a proximal end having an engagement feature structure (90) and a distal end defining a tapered nose (92), wherein the engagement feature structure is configured to be able to releasably engage a corresponding engagement feature structure (not shown) of the distal jaw portion (20) of the frame (16). The upper side of the magazine body (82) defines a generally planar platform (94) through which a longitudinal slot (96) and a plurality of nail cavities (98) are opened. Each nail cavity (98) accommodates a corresponding nail driver (86) and a nail (88). As shown Figure 3 As shown, the interior of the cartridge body (82) slidably accommodates a slider (100), which includes a slider body (102) and a knife member (104). The lateral side of the slider body (102) supports a plurality of cam ramps (106) that taper toward the distal side. The proximal end of the slider body (102) includes a downwardly extending tab (108), which is configured to lockably engage the distal end of the elongated actuating beam (not shown) of the firing assembly (34) when the staple cartridge (80) is mounted to the cartridge half (12) of the stapler (10). The knife member (104) extends upward from the upper side of the slider body (102) and presents a distally facing cutting edge (110) that is configured to cut tissue.

[0040] The slide (100) is configured to be able to translate distally through the cartridge body (82) in response to the distal actuation of the firing assembly (34), so that the knife member (104) translates distally through the longitudinal slot (96) to cut the tissue clamped between the stapler halves (12, 14). At the same time, the cam ramp (106) translates distally through the corresponding internal slot (not shown) of the cartridge body (82) to actuate the nail driver (86) and the nail (88) to pass upward through the nail chamber (98), so that the free end of the nail (88) pierces the clamped tissue and deforms against the nail forming pit of the anvil plate (60). In this way, the distal actuation of the firing assembly (34) allows the tissue clamped between the distal end actuator portions of the stapler halves (12, 14) to be cut and sutured simultaneously.

[0041] The linear surgical stapler (10) and staple cartridge (80) may be further constructed and operated in accordance with one or more of the teachings of the following patents: U.S. Pat. No. 7,905,381, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument with Cutting Member Arrangement," issued on March 15, 2011; U.S. Pat. No. 7,954,686, entitled "Surgical Stapler with Apparatus for Adjusting Staple Height," issued on June 7, 2011; U.S. Pat. No. 8,348,129, entitled "Surgical Stapler Having A Closure Mechanism," issued on January 8, 2013; and / or U.S. Pat. No. 8,789,740, entitled "Linear Cutting and Stapling Device with Selectively Disengageable Cutting Member," issued on July 29, 2014. The disclosures of each of these references are incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] B. Exemplary Use of Linear Surgical Stapler

[0043] FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C An exemplary coupling of stapler halves (12, 14) during a surgical procedure is shown. Figure 4A As shown, the proximal end of the anvil half (14) is aligned with the proximal end of the magazine half (12) so that the proximal pivot pin (42) of the magazine half (12) is received by the proximal hook (58) of the anvil half (14). With the clamping lever (24) in the open position, the anvil half (14) is then pivoted about the proximal pivot pin (42) toward the magazine half (12) to guide the latching protrusion of the anvil half (14) into the narrow slot (32) of the clamping lever jaws (30). Once the latching protrusion (56) is received by the clamping lever jaws (30), the clamping lever (24) is moved toward the magazine half (12). Figure 4B The partially closed position shown in the clamping lever (24) is pivoted. In this partially closed position of the clamping lever (24), the anvil half (14) and the magazine half (12) are partially clamped, so that the stapler (10) can be held with one hand without causing the half (12, 14) to be undesirably separated from each other. In addition, in this state, the distal portions of the stapler half (12, 14) remain spaced apart from each other to allow the tissue to be positioned between the distal portions. It should be understood that before or when this partially clamped state is achieved, the tissue can be positioned between the distal portions of the stapler half (12, 14).

[0044] like Figure 4C As shown, the clamping lever (24) is then further pivoted toward its fully closed position, so that the cam surface of the clamping lever jaw (30) abuts against the closed proximal end of the slot (32) of the clamping lever jaw (30) to pull the latch protrusion of the anvil half (14) proximally, thereby fully clamping the stapler half (12, 14) and the tissue firmly positioned therebetween. Once the stapler (10) half (12, 14) is in the fully clamped state, the actuator (38) can be operated to fire the staple cartridge 80. Specifically, as Figure 5A and Figure 5B As shown, the actuator (38) is pivoted about the proximal end of the stapler (10) to cover one of the lateral sides of the stapler (10). The actuator (38) is then driven distally to actuate the firing assembly (34) in the manner described above, thereby simultaneously severing and suturing the clamped tissue. Upon completion of the distal firing stroke, the actuator (38) may be returned to its proximal original position, as shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the clamping lever (24) can then be opened to separate the stapler halves (12, 14) from each other and release the stapled and severed tissue.

[0045] C. Exemplary Firing Assemblies

[0046] Figures 6 to 10 Shows Figure 2 Details of the firing assembly (34) of the linear surgical stapler (10). As previously described with reference to FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B As described, the firing assembly (34) is capable of translating from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge (80) when a first elongated member (shown as anvil half (14)) is clamped against a second elongated member (shown as cartridge half (12)). Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 A distal perspective view of the firing assembly (34) of the linear surgical stapler (10) of FIG. As previously described, the firing assembly (34) includes a slide (36) and an actuator (38). Figure 7 Shows relative to Figure 1 A top view of the actuator (38) of the linear surgical stapler (10) with the shroud (74) angled, which may occur when an eccentric load is applied to the actuator (38).

[0047] As will be described in more detail below with reference to the following figures, the slide (36) includes a first body portion (shown as an upper body portion (118)), a second body portion (shown as a lower body portion (120)) and a third body portion (shown as a center body portion (122)). Figure 8 Shows Figure 6 An exploded proximal perspective view of the firing assembly (34) of the invention, wherein the slide (36) and Figure 2The slide (36) and actuator (38) are slidably engaged with the elongated channel (109) of the proximal frame portion 18 of the cartridge half (12) such that the slide (36) and actuator (38) move longitudinally along the elongated channel (109) as a unit. Fig. 9 Shows Figure 6 An exploded side elevation view of an actuator (38) and an upper body portion (118), a lower body portion (120) and a center body portion (122) of a firing assembly (34).

[0048] See below Figures 6 to 10 An actuator (38) is described. The actuator (38) is configured to transmit a force applied by a user to a firing assembly (34) to perform a transect of tissue. The actuator (38) includes a body (126), wherein the body (126) may include a gripping feature structure (128) for improving the grip of the user. The actuator (38) includes an internal engagement feature structure (130) extending away from the body (126) of the actuator (38). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (130) includes an upper arched internal protrusion (132) and a lower arched internal protrusion (134) facing opposite directions from each other. The actuator (38) also includes an upper external protrusion (136) and a lower external protrusion (138), which also face opposite directions from each other. As shown, the upper and lower arcuate inner protrusions (132, 134) and the upper and lower outer protrusions (136, 138) extend perpendicularly and parallel to the body (126) of the actuator (38). In other words, the upper and lower arcuate inner protrusions (132, 136) face vertically upward, while the lower and lower arcuate inner protrusions (134, 138) face vertically downward. Specifically, the upper and lower outer protrusions (136, 138) have a smooth inner surface (140) that extends vertically without any protrusions or other features extending therefrom.

[0049] The upper body portion (118) and the lower body portion (120) are configured to slide longitudinally into the central body portion (122) to form a slide (36). The upper body portion (118) includes a longitudinal slot (146) ( Figure 8The first arm (142, 144) is separated from the first arm (142, 144) of the upper body portion (118). The first arm (142) and the second arm (144) of the upper body portion (118) include an internal engagement feature structure (148). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (148) is an upper arcuate internal groove (150) leading to the longitudinal slot (146). The upper arcuate internal groove (150) is configured to securely receive and retain the upper arcuate internal protrusion (132) of the internal engagement feature structure (130) of the actuator (38). The longitudinal slot (146) is configured to receive the central body portion (122). Specifically, the longitudinal slot (146) is configured to accommodate and receive the distal protrusion (152) of the central body portion (122). The upper body portion (118) includes a lower distal protrusion (154) configured to be received within a distal slot (156) of the lower body portion (120) ( Figure 8 ).

[0050] Similarly, the lower body portion (120) includes a longitudinal slot (162) ( Figure 8 The first arm (158) and the second arm (160) are separated by a first arm (158) and a second arm (160) of the lower body portion (120). The first arm (158) and the second arm (160) of the lower body portion (120) include an internal engagement feature structure (164) that is configured to securely receive and retain the internal engagement feature structure (130) of the actuator (38). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (164) is a lower arcuate internal groove (166) leading to the longitudinal slot (162). The upper arcuate internal groove (150) and the lower arcuate internal groove (166) of the upper body portion (118) and the lower body portion (120) jointly define a cavity (168), which captures the upper arcuate internal protrusion (132) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (134) of the internal engagement feature structure (130) of the actuator (38) in the cavity (168). The longitudinal slot (162) is configured to receive the central body portion (122). Figure 8 As shown, the lower body portion (120) includes a lower rail (170). The actuator (38) can be rotated relative to the slide (36) until the actuator (38) contacts the stop feature structure (174) of the upper body portion (118) and the stop feature structure (176) of the lower body portion (120).

[0051] Figures 8 to 9A central body portion (122) is shown including an internal engagement feature (175). The internal engagement feature (175) may be a C-shaped engagement feature (178) that engages an upper arcuate internal protrusion (132) and a lower arcuate internal protrusion (134) of an internal engagement feature (130) of an actuator (38). The C-shaped engagement feature (178) includes an upper retaining feature (180) and a lower retaining feature (182) that are opposed to each other and are shown as being oriented vertically. The C-shaped engagement feature (178) forms a cavity (184) that receives the upper arcuate internal protrusion (132) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (134) of the internal engagement feature (130). The central body portion (122) includes a lower guide rail (186). The lower rail (170) of the lower body portion (120) and the lower rail (186) of the central body portion (122) are configured to slide along the elongated channel (109) forming a track to vertically guide the slide (36) when moving distally.

[0052] Fig.10 Shows Figure 6 A proximal cross-sectional perspective view of a linear surgical stapler (10) of the present invention, wherein a C-shaped engagement feature structure (188) formed by the upper body portion (118) and the lower body portion (120) are engaged with the upper arcuate internal protrusion (132) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (134) of the internal engagement feature structure (130) of the actuator (38). Thus, the C-shaped engagement feature structure (178) of the central body portion (122) and the C-shaped engagement feature structure (178) formed by the upper body portion (118) and the lower body portion (120) form a cavity (168, 184) that is aligned to provide a track to prevent the internal engagement feature structure (130) of the actuator (38) from separating.

[0053] II. Exemplary Linear Surgical Stapler with Improved Actuator Support

[0054] When a user applies an eccentric load to the actuator (38) of the linear surgical stapler (10), high torque is applied to the various components of the firing assembly (34). The high torque can deflect the various components of the firing assembly (34), which can allow the various components to separate from each other. For example, these various components may include the actuator (38), the upper body portion (118), the lower body portion (120), and / or the central body portion (122). For example, Figure 7 The results show that when an eccentric load is applied to the actuator (38), the Figure 1A top view of the actuator (38) of the linear surgical stapler (10) with the first cover angled. Additionally, such deflection may provide an opportunity for the actuator (38) to separate from the slider (36), which is undesirable. Therefore, it may be desirable to strengthen the interface of the slider (36) and the actuator (38) to prevent or at least minimize deflection of these various components of the firing assembly (34).

[0055] As follows Figures 11 to 16 In more detail, the exemplary alternative firing system (212) and the exemplary linear surgical stapler (310) can limit the local stress and associated deflection on the actuator (216, 316) when the surgeon-applied eccentric load generates a torsional load within the firing assembly (212, 312). The firing system (212) and the linear surgical stapler (310) enable the various components of the firing assembly (212, 312) to be maintained in close proximity to each other and to function as an integrated system rather than as individual components in high firing force situations. For example, as described below with reference to Figures 11 to 17 As described above, the interfaces of the various components of the firing assembly (34) can be transformed into the firing assembly (212) to minimize undesired deflection of the firing assembly (212). Figure 18 to Figure 19 As described, the interface between the shroud (70, 74) and actuator (316) of a linear surgical stapler (310) may be transformed to strengthen the interface and minimize undesired deflection.

[0056] A. Exemplary Alternative Firing Assembly for Improved Actuator Support

[0057] Figures 11 to 17 A first exemplary alternative firing assembly (212) for use with a linear surgical stapler, such as the linear surgical stapler (10) described above, is shown. The firing assembly (212) can be used in place of the firing assembly (34) to strengthen the firing assembly (212) and minimize undesired deflection of the firing assembly (212). Similar to the firing assembly (34), when the anvil half (14) is clamped against the cartridge half (12), the firing assembly (212) can be translated from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge (80).

[0058] Fig.11A perspective view of a firing assembly (212) is shown that includes a slide (214) and an actuator (216) that are similar to the slide (36) and actuator (38) described above. The slide (214) includes a first body portion (shown as an upper body portion (218)), a second body portion (shown as a lower body portion (220)), and a third body portion (shown as a center body portion (222)). Unless otherwise noted, the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220), and the center body portion (222) are similar to the upper body portion (118), the lower body portion (120), and the center body portion (122) described above. The upper body portion (218) and the lower body portion (220) can be configured to be able to slide longitudinally into the center body portion (222) to form the slide (214) together. The upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220) and the central body portion (222) are slidable along the proximal frame portion (18) of the frame (16). Figure 2 The elongated channel (109) of the proximal frame portion (28) of the cartridge half (12) is slidably engaged so that the slide (214) and the actuator (216) can move longitudinally along the elongated channel (109) of the proximal frame portion (18) as a unit.

[0059] Figure 12 to Figure 14 The upper body portion (218), lower body portion (220), and central body portion (222) are described in greater detail. Fig.12 Shows Fig.11 The exploded perspective view of the firing assembly makes it easier to visualize the various features of the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220) and the center body portion (222). Fig.13 Shows Fig.11 0048] A side elevation view of the firing assembly of , illustrating the coupling of features of the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220), and the center body portion (222) to the actuator (216). Fig.14 Shows Fig.11 An exploded side elevation view of an actuator (216) and an upper body portion (218), a lower body portion (220) and a center body portion (222) of a firing assembly (212), wherein the actuator (216) and the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220) and the center body portion (222) each include a feature structure for strengthening the firing assembly (212) and minimizing undesirable deflection of the firing assembly (212), as described below.

[0060] 1. Exemplary Actuators

[0061] The following reference Figures 11 to 14 The actuator (216) is described in more detail. Similar to the actuator (38), the actuator (216) is selectively actuated by a user to transmit a force applied by the user to the firing assembly (212) to perform a transection of tissue. The actuator (216) includes an arm (224) and a body (226). The body (226) may include a gripping feature structure (228) for improving the user's grip. As shown, the arm (224) extends perpendicular to the body (226) of the actuator (216). The arm (224) includes an internal engagement feature structure (230) and an external engagement feature structure (231). The internal engagement feature structure (230) extends away from the body (226) of the actuator (216). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (230) includes an upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) and a lower arcuate internal protrusion (234) facing in opposite directions from each other. As shown in FIG. Fig.14 and Fig.16 As shown, the upper arcuate inner protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate inner protrusion (234) extend vertically. Specifically, the upper arcuate inner protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate inner protrusion (234) extend perpendicular to the arm (224) and parallel to the body (226).

[0062] Unlike the actuator (38) described above, the actuator (216) includes an external engagement feature structure (231). The external engagement feature structure (231) may include an upper protrusion and a lower protrusion, which are configured to strengthen the interface between the slide (214) and the actuator (216). Specifically, the external engagement feature structure (231) is shown as including an upper L-shaped arched external protrusion (236) and a lower L-shaped arched external protrusion (238). However, it is also contemplated that the external engagement feature structure (231) may have a variety of suitable shapes and sizes. The upper L-shaped arched external protrusion (236) and the lower L-shaped arched external protrusion (238) extend in opposite directions away from the arm (224). The upper L-shaped arched external protrusion (236) includes an upper end portion (237). As Fig.14 and Fig.16 As shown, the upper end portion (237) includes a vertical interface surface (239a) and a horizontal interface surface (239b). Similarly, the lower L-shaped arcuate outer protrusion (238) includes a lower end portion (240). Fig.14 and Fig.16As shown, the lower end portion (240) includes a vertical interface surface (241a) and a horizontal interface surface (241b). The upper and lower end portions (237, 240) of the upper and lower L-shaped arcuate external protrusions (236, 238) are shown extending parallel to the arm (224) of the actuator (216). As shown, the lower half of the actuator (216) is a mirror image of the upper half of the actuator (216).

[0063] 2. Exemplary Upper Body Section

[0064] The upper body portion (218) includes a longitudinal slot (246) ( Fig.12 2 and 3. The first arm (242) and the second arm (244) of the upper body portion (218) are separated by a first arm (242) and a second arm (244) . The first arm (242) and the second arm (244) of the upper body portion (218) include an internal engagement feature structure (248) and an external engagement feature structure (249). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (248) is an upper arcuate internal groove (250) that leads to the longitudinal slot (246) and (downwardly) toward the lower body portion (220). The upper arcuate internal groove (250) is configured to securely receive and retain the upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) of the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216). The longitudinal slot (246) is configured to receive the central body portion (222). Specifically, the longitudinal slot (246) is configured to accommodate and receive the distal protrusion (252) of the central body portion (222). The upper body portion (218) includes a lower distal protrusion (254) configured to be received within a distal slot (256) of the lower body portion (220) ( Fig.12 and Fig.14 ).

[0065] Unlike the upper body portion (118) described above, the upper body portion (218) includes an external engagement feature structure (249), which is shown as an upper arcuate external groove (251). However, it is also contemplated that the external engagement feature structure (249) may have a variety of suitable shapes and sizes. The upper arcuate external groove (251) opens upward in a direction opposite to the upper arcuate internal groove (250). The upper arcuate external groove (251) includes a vertical interface surface (253a) and a horizontal interface surface (253b) shown as perpendicular to each other.

[0066] 3. Exemplary Lower Body Section

[0067] The lower body portion (220) includes a longitudinal slot (262) ( Fig.12The first arm (258) and the second arm (260) of the lower body portion (220) are separated by a first arm (258) and a second arm (260) . The first arm (258) and the second arm (260) of the lower body portion (220) include an internal engagement feature structure (264) and an external engagement feature structure (265). The internal engagement feature structure (264) is configured to securely receive and retain the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216). As shown, the internal engagement feature structure (264) is a lower arcuate internal groove (266) leading to the longitudinal slot (262). The upper arcuate internal grooves (250) and the lower arcuate internal grooves (266) of the upper body portion (218) and the lower body portion (220) collectively define a cavity (268) that collectively captures the upper arcuate internal protrusions (232) and the lower arcuate internal protrusions (234) of the internal engagement feature (230) of the actuator (216) within the cavity (268). The longitudinal slot (262) is configured to receive the central body portion (222). Fig.12 As shown, the lower body portion (220) includes a lower rail (270). The actuator (216) can be rotated relative to the slide (214) until the actuator (216) contacts the stop feature structure (274) of the upper body portion (218) and the stop feature structure (276) of the lower body portion (220).

[0068] Unlike the lower body portion (120) described above, the lower body portion (220) includes an external engagement feature structure (265), which is shown as a lower arcuate external groove (272). However, it is also contemplated that the external engagement feature structure (265) may have a variety of suitable shapes and sizes. The lower arcuate external groove (272) opens upward in a direction opposite to the lower arcuate internal groove (266). The lower arcuate external groove (272) includes a vertical interface surface (273a) and a horizontal interface surface (273b) shown as perpendicular to each other.

[0069] 4. Exemplary Central Body Section

[0070] The central body portion (222) is similar to the central body portion (122) and is referred to hereinafter. Figures 11 to 14 Describe in more detail. Fig.12 and Fig.14As shown, the central body portion (222) includes an internal engagement feature structure (275) and an external engagement feature structure (277). The internal engagement feature structure (275) (shown as a C-shaped engagement feature structure (278)) engages the upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (234) of the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216). The C-shaped engagement feature structure (278) includes an upper retaining feature structure (280) and a lower retaining feature structure (282) that are shown as being vertically oriented. The C-shaped engagement feature structure (278) forms a cavity (284) that receives the upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (234) of the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216). The central body portion (222) includes a lower guide rail (286). The lower guide rail (270) of the lower body portion (220) and the lower guide rail (286) of the central body portion (222) are configured to slide along the elongated channel (109) and along the proximal frame portion (18) to vertically guide the slide (214) when moving distally. The C-shaped engagement feature structure (288) formed by the upper body portion (218) and the lower body portion (220) engages with the upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (234) of the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216). Fig.11 and Fig.13 As shown, the C-shaped engagement feature structure (278) of the central body portion (222) and the C-shaped engagement feature structure (288) formed by the upper body portion (218) and the lower body portion (220) form a cavity (268, 284) that is aligned to provide a track to prevent the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216) from separating.

[0071] Unlike the central body portion (122) described above, the central body portion (222) includes an external engagement feature structure (277). The external engagement feature structure (277) of the central body portion (122) includes an upper arcuate external groove (290) and a lower arcuate external groove (292), which, together with the upper arcuate external groove (251) and the lower arcuate external groove (272) of the upper body portion (118) and the lower body portion (120), are configured to receive the external engagement feature structure (231) of the actuator (216). The upper arcuate external groove (290) includes a vertical interface surface (294a) and a horizontal interface surface (294b). The lower arcuate external groove (292) includes a vertical interface surface (296a) and a horizontal interface surface (296b).

[0072] 5. Example Interface

[0073] Considering this structure, Figures 15 to 17 The engagement of slide (214) and actuator (216) is shown in greater detail. Fig.15 Shown from another perspective Fig.11 A cross-sectional perspective view of a firing assembly, wherein an internal engagement feature structure (shown as internal engagement feature structure (248, 264, 275)) of a slide (214) engages with an internal engagement feature structure (230) of an actuator (216) at a first interface, and an external engagement feature structure (shown as external engagement feature structure (249, 265, 277) of the slide (214) engages with an external engagement feature structure (231) of the actuator (216) at a second interface. Fig.16 Shows Fig.15 An enlarged sectional perspective view of an enlarged portion of . Fig.17 Shown from another perspective Fig.11 A perspective view of a firing assembly (212) in which an internal engagement feature structure of a slide (214) engages with an internal engagement feature structure (230) of an actuator (216), and the internal engagement feature structure of the slide (214) is connected to the internal engagement feature structure (230) of the actuator (216).

[0074] The internal engagement feature (230) of the actuator (216) is configured to engage the internal engagement feature (shown as internal engagement feature (248, 264, 275)) of the slide (214) at a first interface (e.g., an internal interface) when the actuator (216) moves relative to the slide (214). As shown, the upper arcuate internal protrusion and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (232, 234) of the internal engagement feature (230) of the actuator (216) are securely received within the cavity (168, 184). Specifically, the upper arcuate internal protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate internal protrusion (234) are configured to slide along the corresponding upper arcuate groove and the lower arcuate groove when the actuator (216) moves relative to the slide (214). The upper arcuate outer groove (251) and the lower arcuate outer groove (272) extend together from the first lateral side (298) and the second lateral side (300) of the sliding member (214) to guide the upper arcuate inner protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate inner protrusion (234) of the actuator (216) between the first lateral side (298) and the second lateral side (300) of the sliding member (214).

[0075] The external engagement feature (231) of the actuator (216) is configured to engage the external engagement feature (shown as external engagement feature (249, 265, 277)) of the slider (214) at a second interface (e.g., an external interface) when the actuator (216) moves relative to the slider (214). For example, when the actuator (216) moves between the first lateral side (298) and the second lateral side (300) of the slider (214), the external engagement feature (231) of the actuator (216) can slide along the external engagement feature of the slider (214).

[0076] The upper L-shaped arcuate outer protrusion (236) and the lower L-shaped arcuate outer protrusion (238) move relative to the outer grooves of the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220) and the central body portion (222). The upper L-shaped arcuate outer protrusion (236) and the lower L-shaped arcuate outer protrusion (238) are configured to be received in the corresponding upper outer arcuate groove (251) and lower outer arcuate groove (272) of the upper body portion (218) and the lower body portion (220) and the upper outer arcuate groove (290) and the lower outer arcuate groove (292) of the central body portion (222) of the slider (214). Specifically, the upper L-shaped arched external protrusion (236) is configured to slide along the upper arched external groove (251, 290) when the actuator (216) moves relative to the sliding member (214), and the lower L-shaped arched external protrusion (238) is configured to slide along the lower arched external groove (272, 292) when the actuator (216) moves relative to the sliding member (214).

[0077] Specifically, the upper arcuate external grooves (251, 290) and the lower arcuate external grooves (272, 292) extend from the first lateral side (298) of the sliding member (214) to the second lateral side (300) of the sliding member (214), so that the upper arcuate external grooves (251, 290) and the lower arcuate external grooves (272, 292) of the upper body portion (218), the lower body portion (220) and the central body portion (222) jointly retain the upper L-shaped arcuate external protrusion (236) and the lower L-shaped arcuate external protrusion (238) of the actuator (216) between the first lateral side (298) and the second lateral side (300) of the sliding member (214), and guide the upper L-shaped arcuate external protrusion and the lower L-shaped arcuate external protrusion of the actuator between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the sliding member. The upper end portion (237) and the lower end portion (240) are configured to be received in the corresponding upper arcuate outer grooves (251, 290) and lower arcuate outer grooves (272, 292) of the slider (214). The relative spacing between the upper arcuate inner protrusion (232) and the lower arcuate inner protrusion (234) of the internal engagement feature (230) of the actuator (216) is configured to enable the internal engagement feature (230) of the actuator (216) to be securely received and retained in the cavity (268, 284).

[0078] The external engagement features of the slider (214) and the actuator (216), shown as external engagement features (249, 265, 277), provide at least one additional contact point to strengthen the second interface between the slider (214) and the actuator (216). As shown, the second interface is spaced apart from the first interface. The additional contact point is configured to limit deflection of the actuator (216) relative to the slider (214) to improve the coupling of the slider (214) and the actuator (216). Figures 15 to 17 As shown, the vertical interface surface (239a) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the vertical interface surface (253a) of the upper body portion (218), and the horizontal interface surface (239b) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the horizontal interface surface (253b) of the upper body portion (218). In addition, the vertical interface surface (241a) of the lower end portion (240) of the actuator (216) slides against the vertical interface surface (273a) of the lower body portion (220), and the horizontal interface surface (241b) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the horizontal interface surface (273b) of the lower body portion (220). In addition, as shown Fig.14As shown in the exploded side view of , when the actuator (216) engages the central body portion (222), the vertical interface surface (239a) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the vertical interface surface (294a) of the central body portion (222), and the horizontal interface surface (239b) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the horizontal interface surface (294b) of the central body portion (222). In addition, the vertical interface surface (241a) of the lower end portion (240) of the actuator (216) slides against the vertical interface surface (296a) of the central body portion (222), and the horizontal interface surface (241b) of the upper end portion (237) of the actuator (216) slides against the horizontal interface surface (296b) of the central body portion (222).

[0079] B. Exemplary Alternative Linear Surgical Stapler for Improved Actuator Support

[0080] Fig.18 A proximal perspective view of another exemplary linear surgical stapler (310) is shown. The linear surgical stapler (310) is generally similar to the linear surgical stapler (10) described above, except that the difference is described in addition below. Similar to the linear surgical stapler (10), the linear surgical stapler (310) includes a first slender member (previously shown as anvil half (14)), a second slender member (previously shown as a magazine half (12)) and a clamping member (previously shown as a clamping lever (24)). As previously described with reference to the linear surgical stapler (10), the anvil half (14) includes a distal portion (previously shown as a distal jaw portion (54)) supporting an anvil surface (shown as anvil plate (60)), wherein the anvil plate (60) includes a plurality of nail forming recesses. Similar to the firing assembly (34), the firing assembly (312) is capable of translating from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge (80) when the anvil half (14) is clamped against the cartridge half (12). As previously described with reference to the linear surgical stapler (10), the cartridge half (12) includes a distal portion (shown as the distal jaw portion (20)) configured to receive the staple cartridge (80), and the clamping rod (24) is operable to releasably clamp the anvil half (14) against the cartridge half (12).

[0081] like Fig.18As shown, the firing assembly (312) includes a slide (314) and an actuator (316). The slide (314) includes a first body portion (shown as an upper body portion (318)) and a second body portion (shown as a lower body portion (320)). The slide (314) may include a central body portion (not shown), but similar to the central body portion (122). The actuator (316) includes a body (326) that may include a gripping feature structure (328) for improving the user's grip. The actuator (316) is shown as including an upper protrusion (330) and a lower protrusion (332) that are configured to be able to slidably engage the cover (370, 374) of the linear surgical stapler (310). As shown Fig.18 As shown, the cover (374) is similar to the cover (74) and includes an upper flange (376). The upper flange (376) includes a vertical interface surface (378a) and a horizontal interface surface (378b). As shown, the vertical interface surface (378a) is set at a 90-degree angle relative to the horizontal interface surface (378b). Similarly, similar to the cover (70), the cover (370) includes a lower flange (380) configured to engage the lower protrusion (332) of the actuator (316). The lower flange (380) includes a vertical interface surface (382a) and a horizontal interface surface (382b). Similarly, the vertical interface surface (382a) is set at a 90-degree angle relative to the horizontal interface surface (382b).

[0082] Engagement of the covers (370, 374) with the actuator (316) may stabilize the actuator (316) and control deflection and / or rotation of the actuator (316) when a user applies force to the actuator (316) during distal movement. Fig.19 Shows Fig.18 A top view of an upper protrusion (330) of an actuator (316) Fig.18 The interface between the actuator (316) and the cover (370, 374) allows the actuator (316) to be at a 90-degree angle to the cover (370, 374) and to tighten the overhang to better engage with the upper flange (376) and the lower flange (380). The interface between the actuator (316) and the cover (370, 374) can also minimize the separation of the upper body portion (318) and the lower body portion (320) of the slide (314).

[0083] IV. Exemplary Combinations

[0084] The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the coverage of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions of this patent application. It is not intended to make a disclaimer. The following examples are provided only for illustrative purposes. It is expected that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, any of the aspects or features mentioned below should not be considered decisive, unless otherwise, for example, by the inventor or the successor of the inventor concerned clearly indicates so at a later date. If any claim proposed in this patent application or in the subsequent submissions related to this patent application includes additional features other than those mentioned below, these additional features should not be assumed to be added for any reason related to patentability.

[0085] Example 1

[0086] A surgical stapler comprising: (a) a first elongated member having a distal portion that supports an anvil surface, wherein the anvil surface includes a plurality of staple forming recesses; (b) a second elongated member having a distal portion that is configured to receive a staple cartridge; (c) a clamping member operable to releasably clamp the first elongated member against the second elongated member; and (d) a firing assembly, wherein the firing assembly is translatable from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge when the first elongated member is clamped against the second elongated member, wherein the firing assembly comprises: (i ) a sliding member comprising: (A) an internal engagement feature structure; and (B) an external engagement feature structure; and (ii) an actuator, the actuator being configured to be selectively actuated by a user, wherein the actuator comprises: (A) an internal engagement feature structure, the internal engagement feature structure being configured to engage with the internal engagement feature structure of the sliding member at a first interface when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member; and (B) an external engagement feature structure, the external engagement feature structure being configured to engage with the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member at a second interface when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

[0087] Example 2

[0088] A surgical stapler according to Example 1, wherein the second interface is spaced apart from the first interface, wherein the first interface and the second interface are configured to limit the deflection of the actuator relative to the sliding member and improve the connection between the sliding member and the actuator.

[0089] Example 3

[0090] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member is formed in the outer surface of the sliding member, and wherein the external engagement feature structure of the actuator is configured to be able to slide along the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member when the actuator moves between a first lateral side of the sliding member and a second lateral side of the sliding member.

[0091] Example 4

[0092] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of Examples 1 to 2, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes a first external groove, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the actuator includes a first external protrusion, wherein the first external protrusion is configured to slide along the first external groove when the actuator moves between a first lateral side of the sliding member and a second lateral side of the sliding member.

[0093] Example 5

[0094] A surgical stapler according to Example 4, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes a second external groove, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the actuator includes a second external protrusion, wherein the second external protrusion is configured to be able to slide along the second external groove when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

[0095] Example 6

[0096] A surgical stapler according to Example 5, wherein the first external protrusion and the second external protrusion of the actuator include an upper arched external protrusion and a lower arched external protrusion, wherein the first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member include an upper arched external groove and a lower arched external groove, wherein the upper arched external protrusion and the lower arched external protrusion are configured to be able to slide along the upper arched external groove and the lower arched external groove, respectively, when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

[0097] Example 7

[0098] A surgical stapler according to Example 5, wherein the actuator includes an arm extending perpendicular to the actuator, wherein the first external protrusion and the second external protrusion include a first L-shaped external protrusion and a second L-shaped external protrusion extending from the arm, wherein the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion are configured to be received in the corresponding first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member.

[0099] Example 8

[0100] A surgical stapler according to Example 7, wherein the first L-shaped protrusion and the second L-shaped protrusion include a first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion and the second end portion of the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion extend parallel to the arm of the external engagement feature structure of the actuator and are configured to be received in the corresponding first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member.

[0101] Example 9

[0102] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of embodiments 7 to 8, wherein the internal engagement feature structure of the actuator includes a first internal protrusion and a second internal protrusion, and the first internal protrusion and the second internal protrusion extend relative to each other and perpendicular to the arm of the external engagement feature structure of the actuator.

[0103] Example 10

[0104] A surgical stapler according to Example 9, wherein the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion and the first internal protrusion and the second internal protrusion are arcuate.

[0105] Embodiment 11

[0106] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the internal engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes a C-shaped engagement feature structure, wherein the C-shaped engagement feature structure forms a cavity configured to receive the internal engagement feature structure of the actuator.

[0107] Example 12

[0108] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the internal engagement feature structure of the actuator includes a first internal protrusion and a second internal protrusion relative to each other, wherein the first internal protrusion and the second internal protrusion extend relative to each other, and wherein the first internal protrusion and the second internal protrusion are configured to be securely received in the cavity.

[0109] Embodiment 13

[0110] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the sliding member includes a first main body portion and a second main body portion, the first main body portion and the second main body portion each including a first external groove and a second external groove, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes the first external groove and the second external groove configured to receive the external engagement feature structure of the actuator.

[0111] Embodiment 14

[0112] A surgical stapler according to Example 13, wherein the sliding member includes a third main body portion, the third main body portion including an internal engagement feature structure and an external engagement feature structure, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the third main body portion includes a first external groove and a second external groove, and the first external groove and the second external groove together with the first external groove and the second external groove of the first main body portion and the second main body portion are configured to be able to receive the external engagement feature structure of the actuator.

[0113] Embodiment 15

[0114] A surgical stapler according to embodiment 14, wherein the first external groove and the second external groove of the first body portion, the second body portion and the third body portion extend together along the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the sliding member to guide the external engagement feature structure of the actuator between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the sliding member.

[0115] Example 16

[0116] A surgical stapler comprising: (a) a first elongated member having a distal portion that supports an anvil surface, wherein the anvil surface includes a plurality of staple forming recesses; (b) a second elongated member having a distal portion that is configured to receive a staple cartridge; (c) a clamping member operable to releasably clamp the first elongated member against the second elongated member; and (d) a firing assembly, wherein the firing assembly is translatable from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge when the first elongated member is clamped against the second elongated member, wherein the firing assembly comprises: (i) a sliding member , the sliding member includes a first external groove and a second external groove that open in opposite directions, and (ii) an actuator, which is configured to be selectively actuated by a user, wherein the actuator includes: (A) a main body; (B) a first external protrusion, which extends from the main body, wherein the first external protrusion is configured to be able to slide along the first external groove when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member; and (C) a second external protrusion, which extends from the main body, wherein the second external protrusion is configured to be able to slide along the second external groove when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

[0117] Embodiment 17

[0118] A surgical stapler according to Example 16, wherein the first external protrusion and the second external protrusion include a first L-shaped external protrusion and a second L-shaped external protrusion, and the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion are configured to be received in the first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member, wherein the ends of the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion extend parallel to the main body.

[0119] Embodiment 18

[0120] A surgical stapler comprising: (a) a first elongated member having a distal portion that supports an anvil surface, wherein the anvil surface includes a plurality of staple forming recesses; (b) a second elongated member having a distal portion that is configured to receive a staple cartridge; (c) a clamping member that is operable to releasably clamp the first elongated member against the second elongated member; and (d) a firing assembly that is translatable from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge when the first elongated member is clamped against the second elongated member, wherein the firing assembly comprises: (i) a sliding member comprising: (A) a first main body portion that includes an inner (A) an internal engagement feature structure, the internal engagement feature structure being configured to be able to move relative to the internal engagement feature structure of the first body part, the second body part and the third body part; and (B) an external engagement feature structure, the external engagement feature structure being configured to be able to move relative to the external engagement feature structure of the first body part, the second body part and the third body part.

[0121] Embodiment 19

[0122] A surgical stapler according to Example 18, wherein the external engagement feature structures of the first body portion, the second body portion and the third body portion respectively include a first external groove, a second external groove and a third external groove, wherein the first external groove, the second external groove and the third external groove extend together from the first lateral side of the sliding member and the second lateral side of the sliding member, so that the first external groove, the second external groove and the third external groove of the first body portion, the second body portion and the third body portion jointly maintain the external engagement feature structure of the actuator between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the sliding member and guide the external engagement feature structure of the actuator between the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the sliding member.

[0123] Embodiment 20

[0124] A surgical stapler according to any one or more of embodiments 18 to 19, wherein the internal engagement feature structures of the first body portion, the second body portion and the third body portion respectively include a first internal groove, a second internal groove and a third internal groove that together form a cavity, and wherein the internal engagement feature structure of the actuator includes a first internal protrusion and a second internal protrusion that are configured to be securely received in the cavity.

[0125] V. Miscellaneous

[0126] It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Therefore, the above teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should not be considered isolated from each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0127] In addition, any one or more of the teachings, expressions, implementation schemes, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the teachings, expressions, implementation schemes, examples, etc. described in the following documents: U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 889,363, filed on Feb. 6, 2018, entitled “Release Mechanism for Linear Surgical Stapler”; U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 889,370, filed on Feb. 6, 2018, entitled “Lockout Assembly for Linear Surgical Stapler”; U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 889,374, filed on Feb. 6, 2018, entitled “Features to Align and Close Linear Surgical Stapler”; U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 889,376, filed on Feb. 6, 2018, entitled “Releasable Coupling Features for Proximal Portions of Linear Surgical Stapler”; U.S. application Ser. No. 15 / 889,378, filed on Feb. 6, 2018, entitled “Firing Lever Assembly for Linear Surgical Stapler”; and / or U.S. Application No. 15 / 889,388, entitled “Clamping Mechanism for Linear Surgical Stapler,” filed on February 6, 2018; and / or U.S. Application No. 15 / 889,390, entitled “Actuator Retainer for Surgical Stapler,” filed on the same date as the present application [Attorney Reference No. END9093USNP1]. The disclosure of each of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0128] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material, whether in whole or in part, allegedly incorporated herein by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials described in the present disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure explicitly listed herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material or portion thereof allegedly incorporated herein but conflicting with existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed herein will be incorporated only to the extent that there is no conflict between the incorporated material and the existing public materials.

[0129] The above-described device versions may be used in conventional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals, as well as robotic-assisted medical treatments and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein may be readily incorporated into a robotic surgical system, such as the DAVINCI® by Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California). TM system.

[0130] The devices of the types described above can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or they can be designed to be reusable. In either case or both, these types can be repaired to be reused after at least one use. Repair can include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some types of devices can be disassembled, and any number of specific parts or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. When cleaning and / or replacing specific parts, some types of the device can be reassembled at a repair facility or reassembled by the user before surgery is about to be performed for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the repair of the device can be disassembled, cleaned / replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such technology and the resulting repair device are all within the scope of the present application.

[0131] By way of example only, the types described herein may be sterilized before and / or after surgery. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in a sterile container for later use. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0132] Various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, and further improvements of the methods and systems described herein may be achieved by appropriate modifications by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the present invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those of skill in the art. For example, the embodiments, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc. discussed above are illustrative and not required. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be considered in light of the following claims, and should be understood not to be limited to the details of the structure and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A surgical stapler, comprising: (a) a first elongated member having a distal portion supporting an anvil surface, wherein the anvil surface includes a plurality of staple forming pockets; (b) a second elongated member having a distal portion configured to receive a staple cartridge; (c) a clamping member operable to releasably clamp the first elongate member against the second elongate member; and (d) a firing assembly, wherein the firing assembly is translatable from a first longitudinal position to a second longitudinal position to fire the staple cartridge when the first elongated member is clamped against the second elongated member, wherein the firing assembly comprises: (i) a sliding member, the sliding member comprising: (A) internal bonding features, and (B) external engagement features, and (ii) an actuator, the actuator comprising: (A) a body configured to be selectively actuated by a user, (B) an internal engagement feature structure configured to engage with the internal engagement feature structure of the slider when the actuator moves relative to the slider, and (C) an external engagement feature having an end portion extending in a direction away from a body of the actuator, wherein the end portion is configured to engage the external engagement feature of the slider at a second interface when the actuator moves relative to the slider, wherein the external engagement feature comprises a first external protrusion and a second external protrusion, and wherein the actuator comprises an arm extending perpendicular to the body of the actuator, wherein the first external protrusion and the second external protrusion comprise a first L-shaped external protrusion and a second L-shaped external protrusion extending from the arm, wherein the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second L-shaped external protrusion are configured to be received in corresponding first and second external grooves of the sliding member.

2. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The outer engagement features are spaced apart from the inner engagement features, wherein the inner and outer engagement features of the slider and the actuator are configured to limit deflection of the actuator relative to the slider and improve coupling of the slider and the actuator.

3. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The external engagement feature structure of the slider is formed in the outer surface of the slider, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the actuator is configured to slide along the external engagement feature structure of the slider when the actuator moves between the first lateral side of the slider and the second lateral side of the slider.

4. The surgical stapler according to claim 2, wherein: The external engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes a first external groove, wherein the first external protrusion has an end portion, and wherein the first external protrusion is configured to slide along the first external groove when the actuator moves between the first lateral side of the sliding member and the second lateral side of the sliding member.

5. The surgical stapler according to claim 4, wherein: The external engagement feature of the slider includes a second external groove, wherein the second external protrusion is configured to slide along the second external groove when the actuator moves relative to the slider.

6. The surgical stapler according to claim 5, wherein: The first external protrusion and the second external protrusion of the actuator include an upper arcuate external protrusion and a lower arcuate external protrusion, wherein the first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member include an upper arcuate external groove and a lower arcuate external groove, wherein the upper arcuate external protrusion and the lower arcuate external protrusion are configured to be able to slide along the upper arcuate external groove and the lower arcuate external groove respectively when the actuator moves relative to the sliding member.

7. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The first L-shaped external protrusion includes a first end portion, wherein the second L-shaped external protrusion includes a second end portion, wherein the first end portion of the first L-shaped external protrusion and the second end portion of the second L-shaped external protrusion extend parallel to the arm of the external engagement feature structure of the actuator and are configured to be received in the corresponding first external groove and the second external groove of the sliding member.

8. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The internal engagement feature of the actuator includes a first internal protrusion and a second internal protrusion extending opposite each other and perpendicular to the arm of the external engagement feature of the actuator.

9. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The internal engagement feature of the slider includes a C-shaped engagement feature, wherein the C-shaped engagement feature forms a cavity configured to receive the internal engagement feature of the actuator.

10. The surgical stapler according to claim 9, wherein: The internal engagement feature structure of the actuator includes opposing first and second internal protrusions extending opposite each other, wherein the first and second internal protrusions are configured to be securely received within the cavity.

11. The surgical stapler according to claim 1, wherein: The sliding member includes a first main body portion and a second main body portion, each of which includes a first external groove and a second external groove, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the sliding member includes the first external groove and the second external groove configured to receive the external engagement feature structure of the actuator.

12. The surgical stapler according to claim 11, wherein: The sliding member includes a third main body part, which includes an internal engagement feature structure and an external engagement feature structure, wherein the external engagement feature structure of the third main body part includes a first external groove and a second external groove, and the first external groove and the second external groove together with the first external groove and the second external groove of the first main body part and the second main body part are configured to receive the external engagement feature structure of the actuator.

13. The surgical stapler according to claim 12, wherein: The first and second external grooves of the first, second and third body portions extend together along first and second lateral sides of the slider to guide the external engagement feature of the actuator between the first and second lateral sides of the slider.

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