Surgical staple cartridge with integrated verification key

Abstract

The present invention discloses a staple cartridge configured to be used with a surgical stapling device. The staple cartridge includes a verification ramp extending from the proximal end of the cartridge body and defining a ramp axis transverse to the axis of the cartridge. The verification ramp is aligned with a sliding member cavity in the cartridge and includes a first cam surface and a second cam surface, the first cam surface and the second cam surface being configured to move the locking member away from the cartridge axis when the staple cartridge is placed in the surgical stapling device and in contact with the locking member of the surgical stapling device.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 866,208, filed on June 25, 2019, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH FEATURES FOR DEFEATING LOCKOUTS IN SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 807,310, filed on February 19, 2019, entitled “METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER THAT HAS SEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS,” U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 807,319, filed on February 19, 2019, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED LOCKOUT SYSTEMS,” and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 807,320, filed on February 19, 2019, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED No. 62 / 807,309, filed December 24, 2009, entitled "ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS," the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0003] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and severing instruments designed to stapling and severing tissue and staple cartridges for use therewith. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The various features of the embodiments described herein, together with their advantages, may be understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the following drawings:

[0005] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an electric surgical suturing system;

[0006] Figure 2 for Figure 1 A perspective view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of a powered surgical stapling system;

[0007] Figure 3 for Figure 1 An exploded assembly view of multiple portions of a handle assembly of an electric surgical stapling system;

[0008] Figure 4 for Figure 2an exploded assembly view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly;

[0009] Figure 5 for Figure 4 another partially exploded assembly view of a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly;

[0010] Figure 6 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of a surgical stapling assembly;

[0011] Figure 7 for Figure 6 A perspective view of a first locking spring of a surgical stapling device;

[0012] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A partial side elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling device illustrating a first lockout spring retained in engagement with its firing member and prior to inserting a surgical staple cartridge into a first jaw of the surgical stapling device;

[0013] Figure 9 for Figure 8 A top view of a portion of a surgical stapling device;

[0014] Figure 10 for Figure 8 an exploded view of multiple portions of a surgical stapling device illustrating initial insertion of a cartridge assembly including a retainer attached to a staple cartridge, wherein a verification key on the retainer engages a first locking spring of the surgical stapling device;

[0015] Figure 11 for Figure 10 A perspective view of a verification key of a retainer;

[0016] Figure 12 for Figure 11 A top view of a verification key of a retainer;

[0017] Figure 13 for Figure 11 A side view of the verification key of the retainer;

[0018] Figure 14 for Figure 8 Another top view of a portion of a surgical stapling device showing the Figure 8 The cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the first jaw of the surgical stapling device;

[0019] Figure 15 for Figure 14 another top view of a portion of a surgical stapling device after removing a retainer from a staple cartridge operably disposed in a first jaw of the surgical stapling device;

[0020] Figure 16 for Figure 6a side elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus with an exhausted staple cartridge disposed in the first jaw and the firing member in a starting position;

[0021] Figure 17 for Figure 16 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling apparatus and the spent staple cartridge of FIG. 1 , showing the second firing member lockout in a locked position, wherein the firing member is prevented from moving distally during the staple firing stroke;

[0022] Figure 18 for Figure 6 a side elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus with an unfired staple cartridge disposed in the first jaw and the firing member in a starting position;

[0023] Figure 19 for Figure 18 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling device and the unfired staple cartridge of FIG. 1 , showing a second firing member lockout in an unlocked position, wherein a slide in the staple cartridge is in unlocked engagement with the firing member;

[0024] Figure 20 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of another surgical stapling assembly;

[0025] Figure 21 for Figure 20 a partial side elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling device during initial insertion of a cartridge assembly including a retainer attached to a staple cartridge into the surgical stapling device;

[0026] Figure 22 for Figure 21 Another partial side view of the surgical stapling device after the cartridge assembly has been positioned in the first jaw of the surgical stapling device and before the retainer is removed from the staple cartridge;

[0027] Figure 23 for Figure 22 Another partial side view of the surgical stapling assembly after the retainer has been removed from the staple cartridge;

[0028] Figure 24 is a perspective view of a proximal end portion of another staple cartridge;

[0029] Figure 25 To show Figure 24 A partial side elevational view of a staple cartridge initially inserted into a surgical stapling device with its first firing member latch in an engaged or locked position;

[0030] Figure 26 for Figure 25 Another partial side view of the surgical stapling device, wherein Figure 24a staple cartridge operably disposed therein and a first firing member lockout in a disengaged or unlocked position;

[0031] Figure 27 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of another surgical stapling assembly;

[0032] Figure 28 for Figure 27 A partial side elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus of FIG. 1 showing a first locking arm of a first locking member in a jaw locked position;

[0033] Figure 29 for Figure 28 A top view of multiple portions of a surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking arm is in a jaw locking position;

[0034] Figure 30 for Figure 29 Another top view of the multiple portions of the surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking arm is in the jaw closed position;

[0035] Figure 31 for Figure 29 A partial bottom perspective view of a surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the first locking arm is in a jaw locking position;

[0036] Figure 32 is a partial perspective view of a proximal end portion of a cartridge assembly including another retainer attached to a staple cartridge;

[0037] Figure 33 for Figure 32 a bottom perspective view of a proximal end portion of a retainer;

[0038] Figure 34 for Figure 33 A top view of the proximal end of the retainer;

[0039] Figure 35 for Figure 34 A side view of the proximal end of the retainer;

[0040] Figure 36 for Figure 29 The multiple parts of the surgical stapling device are Figure 32 another top view of the cartridge assembly during initial insertion therein;

[0041] Figure 37 for Figure 36 another top view of the multiple portions of the surgical stapling device after the cartridge assembly has been positioned therein;

[0042] Figure 38 for Figure 37Another top view of the multiple portions of the surgical stapling device after the retainer has been removed from the staple cartridge disposed therein;

[0043] Figure 38A for Figure 37 A top view of multiple portions of a surgical stapling device, wherein another cartridge assembly is disposed within the portion;

[0044] Figure 39 is a partial perspective view of another staple cartridge, wherein the verification key is folded into the cartridge tray of the staple cartridge;

[0045] Figure 40 A top view of another surgical stapling device is shown. Figure 39 The staple cartridge is initially inserted into the surgical stapling device;

[0046] Figure 41 for Figure 40 A side elevation view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge;

[0047] Figure 42 for Figure 40 Another top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein Figure 39 The surgical staple cartridge is operably disposed in the surgical stapling device;

[0048] Figure 43 is a partial perspective view of another staple cartridge with a verification key folded into the cartridge tray of the staple cartridge;

[0049] Figure 44 To illustrate the embodiment of a device operatively disposed in another surgical stapling device Figure 43 A partial perspective view of a nail magazine;

[0050] Figure 45 for Figure 44 A side elevation view of a surgical stapling device and staple cartridge, wherein the first locking arm of the stapling device is maintained in a jaw closed position;

[0051] Figure 46 for Figure 44 Another perspective view of the surgical stapling device and the staple cartridge during initial insertion of the staple cartridge into the surgical stapling device;

[0052] Figure 47 is a partial perspective view of another staple cartridge with a verification key folded into the cartridge tray of the staple cartridge;

[0053] Figure 48 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of another surgical stapling assembly;

[0054] Figure 49 for Figure 48 A side elevation view of a surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking arm of the surgical stapling device is maintained in a jaw locked position;

[0055] Figure 50 for Figure 49 A top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking arm is in a jaw locking position;

[0056] Figure 51 for Figure 49 A side elevational view of a surgical stapling apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first lockout arm is in a jaw closed position and the anvil thereof is in a closed position;

[0057] Figure 52 for Figure 49 Another top view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , showing the initial insertion of the cartridge assembly including the retainer attached to the staple cartridge into the surgical stapling device;

[0058] Figure 53 for Figure 52 a partial perspective view of a proximal end of a retainer of a cartridge assembly;

[0059] Figure 54 for Figure 53 A top view of the proximal end of the retainer;

[0060] Figure 55 for Figure 54 A side view of the proximal end of the retainer;

[0061] Figure 56 A top view of another surgical stapling device wherein the first locking arm is supported in opposite sides of the surgical stapling device and Figure 52 During initial insertion of the cartridge assembly into the surgical stapling device;

[0062] Figure 57 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of another surgical stapling assembly;

[0063] Figure 58 for Figure 57 A perspective view of a first locking spring of a surgical stapling device;

[0064] Figure 59 for Figure 57 A partial side elevation view of a surgical stapling device with a first locking spring locked in engagement with a firing member of the surgical stapling device;

[0065] Figure 60 for Figure 59 A top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking spring is in an engaged or locked position;

[0066] Figure 61 for Figure 60an exploded view of multiple portions of a surgical stapling device illustrating initial insertion of a cartridge assembly including a retainer attached to a staple cartridge, wherein a verification key on the retainer engages a first locking spring of the surgical stapling device;

[0067] Figure 62 for Figure 60 A top view of a surgical stapling device showing Figure 61 The cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the surgical stapling device;

[0068] Figure 63 for Figure 62 Another top view of the surgical stapling device after the retainer has been removed from the staple cartridge disposed in the surgical stapling device;

[0069] Figure 64 An exploded view of the surgical system;

[0070] Figures 64A-64ZZ shows examples of various amounts of space that may be used for verification key arrangements of various staple cartridges used in conjunction with different surgical stapling devices;

[0071] Figure 65 An exploded perspective assembly view of a surgical stapling device and a staple cartridge of another surgical stapling assembly;

[0072] Figure 66 for Figure 65 A partial perspective view of multiple parts of a surgical stapling device;

[0073] Figure 67 for Figure 65 A perspective view of a proximal end portion of a first jaw of a surgical stapling device;

[0074] Figure 68 for Figure 65 A top view of a surgical stapling device with its first locking arm in a jaw locking position;

[0075] Figure 69 for Figure 68 A side elevation view of a surgical stapling device, wherein the first locking arm is in a jaw locking position;

[0076] Figure 70 for Figure 69 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling apparatus of FIG. 1 , wherein the first locking arm is in the jaw closed position and the anvil thereof is in the closed position;

[0077] Figure 71 is an end elevational view of a portion of a surgical stapling device with a first locking arm thereof in a jaw locking position;

[0078] Figure 72 To be able to Figure 65A perspective view of a staple cartridge used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device;

[0079] Figure 73 for Figure 65 A top view of a portion of a first locking arm of a surgical stapling device showing Figure 72 The nail cartridge is initially inserted into the portion;

[0080] Figure 74 another top view of a first locking arm engaged with an upper ramp feature of a verification key of a staple cartridge;

[0081] Figure 75 for Figure 65 The first locking arm of the surgical stapling device is Figure 72 another top view of the staple cartridge during further insertion therein;

[0082] Figure 76 for Figure 65 Another top view of the first locking arm of the surgical stapling device in the jaw closed position after the staple cartridge has been operably positioned in the surgical stapling device;

[0083] Figure 77 for Figure 76 A portion of the first locking arm is Figure 65 A partial perspective view of an anvil of a surgical stapling device during closure;

[0084] Figure 78 for Figure 77 A partial top view of a surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein a portion of the anvil is shown in cross-section;

[0085] Figure 78A is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment attached to another staple cartridge embodiment;

[0086] Figure 78B is a perspective view of another staple cartridge embodiment;

[0087] Figure 78C for Figure 78B A top view of an embodiment of a nail cartridge;

[0088] Figure 79 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment;

[0089] Figure 80 for Figure 79 A bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a retainer;

[0090] Figure 81 for Figure 79 Another bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a retainer with the frangible retention tab removed therefrom;

[0091] Figure 82is a perspective assembled view of another retainer embodiment and a staple cartridge;

[0092] Figure 83 for Figure 82 An exploded cross-sectional assembly view of the retainer and staple cartridge;

[0093] Figure 84 For coupling together to form a cartridge assembly housed in a frame of a surgical stapling device Figure 82 A cross-sectional end view of the retainer and staple cartridge;

[0094] Figure 85 To be placed in Figure 84 In the framework of Figure 84 A partial cross-sectional perspective view of a bin assembly;

[0095] Figure 86 A partial perspective view of the nose portion of the staple cartridge;

[0096] Figure 87 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0097] Figure 88 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0098] Figure 89 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0099] Figure 90 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0100] Figure 91 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0101] Figure 92 A partial perspective view of a nose portion of another staple cartridge;

[0102] Figure 93 is a side view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus showing a compatible staple cartridge and a compatible retainer positioned within a frame of the surgical stapling apparatus;

[0103] Figure 94 for Figure 93 Another side view of a surgical stapling device, wherein an incompatible staple cartridge and an incompatible retainer are positioned within the frame of the device;

[0104] Figure 95 is a perspective view of another holder embodiment having a detachable verification key;

[0105] Figure 96 for Figure 95 Another perspective view of the holder of wherein the detachable verification key is detached from and tethered to the main body portion of the holder;

[0106] Figure 97 is a bottom view of another retainer embodiment;

[0107] Figure 98 Before use Figure 97 a cross-sectional view of a portion of a retainer;

[0108] Figure 99 for Figure 97 another cross-sectional view of the portion of the retainer after the retainer has been used and removed from the staple cartridge;

[0109] Figure 100 is a proximal perspective view of an embodiment of a retainer assembly;

[0110] Figure 101 for Figure 100 An exploded assembly view of the retainer assembly and the staple cartridge;

[0111] Figure 102 for Figure 100 Another proximal perspective view of the retainer assembly;

[0112] Figure 103 for Figure 100 a bottom perspective view of the retainer assembly;

[0113] Figure 104 For mounting to a staple cartridge to form a cartridge assembly Figure 100 A perspective view of a retainer assembly;

[0114] Figure 105 is a perspective view of another retainer assembly embodiment mounted to a staple cartridge to form a cartridge assembly;

[0115] Figure 106 for Figure 105 An exploded perspective assembly view of the bin assembly;

[0116] Figure 107 To support Figure 105 a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus having a cartridge assembly showing the retainer cap removed from the cartridge assembly;

[0117] Figure 108 is a side view of a cartridge assembly positioned in a frame of a surgical stapling apparatus, wherein the cartridge assembly includes another retainer removably coupled to the staple cartridge;

[0118] Figure 109 is a bottom view of the proximal end of another retainer embodiment;

[0119] Figure 110A is a top view of a proximal end portion of another retainer embodiment, wherein the verification key of the retainer is in a first position;

[0120] Figure 110B for Figure 110A Another top view of the holder, wherein the verification key is in a second position, making the holder non-reusable;

[0121] Figure 111 is a bottom view of the proximal end of another retainer embodiment;

[0122] Figure 112 is a bottom view of the proximal end of another retainer embodiment;

[0123] Figure 113 For the Figure 112 The line 113-113 is intercepted Figure 112 A cross-sectional view of a verification key of a retainer;

[0124] Figure 114 A diagrammatic view of another retainer embodiment assembly;

[0125] Figure 115 for Figure 114 Another view of an embodiment of a retainer;

[0126] Figure 116 is clamped between the jaws of the suturing device Figure 114 A diagrammatic view of an embodiment of a retainer;

[0127] Figure 117 is a top view of another retainer embodiment;

[0128] Figure 118 for Figure 117 Another top view of the retainer showing some portions in cross section;

[0129] Figure 119 To show the Figure 117 A partial perspective assembly view of the retainer initially mounted on the staple cartridge;

[0130] Figure 120 To show the installation Figure 119 On the nail bin Figure 117 Another partial perspective view of the retainer;

[0131] Figure 121 for Figure 120 A proximal end view of the retainer and staple cartridge assembly;

[0132] Figure 122 is a side elevational view of another retainer embodiment mounted on a staple cartridge, with a portion of the retainer shown in cross-section and with its verification key in a retracted position;

[0133] Figure 123for Figure 122 A front view of the other side of the retainer and the staple cartridge, wherein the verification key of the retainer protrudes proximally from the key housing on the retainer;

[0134] Figure 124 for Figure 123 An enlarged view of a portion of the retainer and the staple cartridge;

[0135] Figure 125 for Figure 124 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a retainer and a staple cartridge with the plunger actuator in a depressed position to disengage the retainer from the staple cartridge;

[0136] Figure 126 for Figure 125 an enlarged view of the plunger actuator;

[0137] Figure 127 is a perspective view of a proximal end portion of another retainer embodiment;

[0138] Figure 128 To show the connection to the unfired nail magazine Figure 127 A perspective view of a retainer;

[0139] Figure 129 for Figure 128 A portion of the retainer relative to Figure 128 An exploded assembly view of the slide of an unfired staple cartridge;

[0140] Figure 130 is a top view of another retainer embodiment with the verification key of the retainer in an extended actuated position, with some features of the retainer omitted for clarity;

[0141] Figure 131 for Figure 130 A side view of a retainer, wherein the verification key of the retainer is in a retracted position;

[0142] Figure 132 An exploded assembly view of the retainer system;

[0143] Figure 133 for Figure 132 A partial cross-sectional view of a retainer of a retainer system;

[0144] Figure 134 To support the nail magazine Figure 132 A cross-sectional assembly view of a retainer tool of a retainer system;

[0145] Figure 135 for Figure 132 Another exploded assembly view of the retainer system of FIG, which shows a retainer tool for initially installing the retainer on the staple cartridge;

[0146] Figure 136 Another exploded view showing the initial installation Figure 135 a retainer on a staple cartridge, wherein the retainer tool is withdrawn from between the retainer and the staple cartridge;

[0147] Figure 137 An exploded assembly view of another retainer system;

[0148] Figure 138 To illustrate the insertion before installation on the staple cartridge Figure 137 The system's retainer Figure 137 A bottom perspective assembly view of the tools in the system;

[0149] Figure 139 To insert Figure 138 in the retainer Figure 138 a cross-sectional view of a tool wherein the retainer is positioned on a staple cartridge;

[0150] Figure 140 is a side elevation view of a portion of another retainer embodiment;

[0151] Figure 141 for Figure 140 a bottom view of a portion of an embodiment of a retainer;

[0152] Figure 142 An exploded assembly view of another retainer embodiment and a surgical stapling device;

[0153] Figure 143 To illustrate the attachment to the Figure 143 The staple cartridge in the frame of the suturing device Figure 142 A perspective view of a retainer;

[0154] Figure 144 for Figure 143 A side elevational view of a retainer and suturing device, wherein the movement of the disengagement member of the retainer is shown in phantom;

[0155] Figure 145 To show the installation Figure 144 In the suturing device Figure 144 A partial side view of the position of the verification key of the retainer;

[0156] Figure 146 for Figure 145 A partial top view of a retainer and stapling device showing the initial insertion of the staple cartridge / retainer assembly into the stapling device;

[0157] Figure 147 To be placed in Figure 146 In the suturing device Figure 146Another partial top view of a staple cartridge / retainer assembly of FIG. 1 , and wherein a verification key of the retainer disables a lockout member of the stapling device;

[0158] Figure 148 is a side view of another retainer embodiment for applying a prying motion to the nose of a spent staple cartridge mounted in a frame of a surgical stapling apparatus;

[0159] Figure 149 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a deactivator tool;

[0160] Figure 150 is a side elevational view of a surgical stapling apparatus, wherein Figure 149 The deactivator tool is installed thereon;

[0161] Figure 151 For initial contact Figure 150 A partial top view of a verification key of a deactivator tool of an actuator cam arm of a latching member of a surgical stapling device;

[0162] Figure 152 for Figure 151 a partial side elevation view of a verification key and actuator cam arm;

[0163] Figure 153 for Figure 150 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the deactivator tool biases the locking arm of the surgical stapling device to the jaw closed position;

[0164] Figure 154 for Figure 153 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the deactivator tool biases the locking arm of the surgical stapling device to the jaw closed position and the staple cartridge is mounted in the frame of the surgical stapling device;

[0165] Figure 155 For the general Figure 153 A partial top view of a verification key of a deactivator tool biased to a jaw closed position by an actuator cam arm of a surgical stapling device;

[0166] Figure 156 for Figure 155 a partial side elevation view of a verification key and actuator cam arm;

[0167] Figure 157 is a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical stapling device in which a deactivator insert embodiment holds a first lockout arm of the surgical stapling device in a jaw closed position;

[0168] Figure 158 For installation in Figure 157 Before the surgical stapling device is used, the support Figure 157a partial cross-sectional top view of an embodiment of an installation tool for a deactivator insert;

[0169] Figure 159 For the general Figure 157 The deactivator insert is installed into Figure 158 Surgical suturing device Figure 158 Another partial cross-sectional top view of the installation tool;

[0170] Figure 160 After the deactivator insert has been installed therein and the installation tool has been withdrawn therefrom, Figure 159 Another partial cross-sectional top view of a surgical stapling device;

[0171] Figure 161 is a partial perspective view of a portion of another surgical stapling device, wherein another deactivator insert is installed in the surgical stapling device to maintain a first closure member of the surgical stapling device in a jaw closed position;

[0172] Figure 162 A perspective view of another embodiment of the installation tool;

[0173] Figure 163 A side elevation view of a surgical stapling apparatus showing the use of Figure 162 an installation tool for biasing the first latching arm of the device into the jaw closed position;

[0174] Figure 164 is a top view of another embodiment of an installation tool for installing a deactivator insert into a channel of a surgical stapling device;

[0175] Figure 165 for Figure 163 A side elevational view of a surgical stapling device illustrating the use of a deactivator embodiment to maintain a first locking arm of the surgical stapling device in a jaw locked position;

[0176] Figure 166 for Figure 163 Another side elevational view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , illustrating the use of another deactivator embodiment to maintain the first locking arm of the surgical stapling device in a jaw locked position;

[0177] Figure 167 is a partial top view of a portion of a surgical stapling device in which a deactivator tool embodiment is attached to the surgical stapling device to maintain a locking arm of the surgical stapling device in a jaw closed position or locked position until a staple cartridge is inserted into a frame of the device;

[0178] Figure 168 is a partial perspective view of a frame of various surgical stapling devices, wherein a channel protrusion for cartridge alignment purposes is formed thereon;

[0179] Figure 169 A partial perspective view of a portion of an anvil of various surgical stapling devices showing the anvil being used to accommodate the stapling device when the anvil is moved to a closed position. Figure 168 a relief region of the channel projection therein;

[0180] Figure 170 is a top cross-sectional view of a portion of a surgical stapling device with a portion of a staple cartridge initially positioned longitudinally therein;

[0181] Figure 171 for Figure 170 Another top cross-sectional view of a surgical stapling device and a cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge is operably disposed within the surgical stapling device;

[0182] Figure 172 for Figure 171 The nail warehouse and Figure 171 A partial perspective view of a first locking arm of a surgical stapling device;

[0183] Figure 173 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a slider including a verification key arrangement;

[0184] Figure 174 For the nail warehouse Figure 173 A partial top view of a staple cartridge with a slider contained in an unfired position and interacting with a first locking arm of a surgical stapling device;

[0185] Figure 175 is a perspective view of a proximal end of another staple cartridge with a verification key formed into the cartridge tray of the cartridge;

[0186] Figure 176 for Figure 175 Another perspective view of the proximal end of the staple cartridge;

[0187] Figure 177 For insertion into another surgical stapling device Figure 175 A top view of a portion of a nail magazine;

[0188] Figure 178 For full insertion Figure 177 Surgical suturing device Figure 175 Another top view of the staple cartridge, wherein the first locking member thereof is in the unlocked or jaw closed position;

[0189] Figure 179 is a perspective view of a proximal end portion of another staple cartridge embodiment with a verification key thereof in a first state;

[0190] Figure 180 for Figure 179Another perspective view of the proximal end of the staple cartridge, wherein the verification key is in a second state;

[0191] Figure 181 During its initial insertion into the surgical stapling device Figure 179 A partial top cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge;

[0192] Figure 182 for Figure 181 Another partial top cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge and surgical stapling device, wherein the staple cartridge is operably disposed in the device and the locking arm of the device is in an unlocked position;

[0193] Figure 183 is a perspective view of a proximal end of another staple cartridge embodiment with a verification key formed into the cartridge tray and in a first state;

[0194] Figure 184 for Figure 183 Another perspective view of the proximal end of the staple cartridge, wherein the verification key is in a second state;

[0195] Figure 185 is a perspective view of a proximal end of another staple cartridge embodiment with a verification key formed into the cartridge tray and in a first state;

[0196] Figure 186 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment in which a movable verification key arrangement is attached to the staple cartridge;

[0197] Figure 187 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment in which a movable verification key arrangement is attached to the staple cartridge;

[0198] Figure 188 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment in which a movable verification key arrangement is attached to the staple cartridge;

[0199] Figure 189 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment in which a movable verification key arrangement is attached to the staple cartridge;

[0200] Figure 190 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment in which a movable verification key arrangement is attached to the staple cartridge;

[0201] Figure 191 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment attached to a staple cartridge having a movable verification key arrangement formed in a cartridge pan of the staple cartridge;

[0202] Figure 192 is a perspective view of another retainer embodiment with a crushable verification key arrangement attached thereto and attached to a staple cartridge;

[0203] Figure 193 is a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus with a cartridge assembly disposed therein, the cartridge assembly including a holder having a movable verification key that is movable when in contact with a portion of the surgical stapling apparatus;

[0204] Figure 194 for Figure 193 A partial top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein Figure 193 The cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the suturing device;

[0205] Figure 195 for Figure 194 Another partial top view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the cartridge assembly is disposed in a final position, wherein the movable verification key thereof has moved the first locking arm of the surgical stapling device into an unlocked position;

[0206] Figure 195A for Figure 194 Another partial top view of a surgical stapling device of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the cartridge assembly including the replacement retainer disposed on the staple cartridge is disposed in a final position wherein the movable verification key thereof has moved the first locking arm of the device into an unlocked position;

[0207] Figure 196 is a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus with another cartridge assembly disposed therein, the other cartridge assembly including another retainer having a movable verification key that is movable when in contact with a portion of the surgical stapling apparatus;

[0208] Figure 197 for Figure 196 A partial top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein Figure 196 The cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the suturing device;

[0209] Figure 198 for Figure 196 Another partial top view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the cartridge assembly is disposed in a final position wherein its movable verification key has moved the first locking arm of the device into an unlocked position;

[0210] Figure 199 is a partial perspective view of a portion of a surgical stapling apparatus with another cartridge assembly disposed therein, the other cartridge assembly including another retainer having a movable verification key that is movable when in contact with a portion of the surgical stapling apparatus;

[0211] Figure 200 for Figure 199 A partial top view of a surgical stapling device, wherein Figure 196The cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the surgical stapling device;

[0212] Figure 201 for Figure 196 Another partial top view of the surgical stapling device of FIG. 1 , wherein the cartridge assembly is disposed in a final position, wherein the movable verification key thereof has moved the first locking arm of the surgical stapling device into an unlocked position;

[0213] Figure 202 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a deactivator element;

[0214] Figure 203 is a partial perspective view of a deactivator element mounted on a cartridge assembly including a staple cartridge and a retainer;

[0215] Figure 204 is a perspective view of a cartridge assembly and a deactivator installed in a surgical stapling device;

[0216] Figure 205 for Figure 204 another perspective view of the cartridge assembly and surgical stapling device, wherein the retainer is separated from the staple cartridge and the deactivator element is retained in the surgical stapling device;

[0217] Figure 206 is a bottom perspective view of a proximal end portion of an embodiment of a staple cartridge with a verification key integrally formed thereon;

[0218] Figure 207 for Figure 206 A bottom view of an embodiment of a slider of a staple cartridge;

[0219] Figure 208 for Figure 206 A top perspective view of the proximal end of the staple cartridge;

[0220] Figure 209 For alignment with the surgical stapling device before being installed in the surgical stapling device Figure 206 A partial top cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge; and

[0221] Figure 210 for Figure 209 Another partial top cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge and surgical stapling device, wherein the staple cartridge is operably positioned within the device and the locking arm of the device is in an unlocked position.

[0222] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views.The exemplification described herein illustrates various embodiments of the invention in one form, and such exemplification is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0223] The applicant of this application is an owner of the following U.S. patent applications filed on the same date as this application and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0224] U.S. Patent Application Titled “METHOD FOR PROVIDING AN AUTHENTICATION LOCKOUT IN A SURGICALSTAPLER WITH A REPLACEABLE CARTRIDGE,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP1 / 190162-1M;

[0225] - U.S. Patent Application Titled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY WITH CARTRIDGE BASED RETAINER CONFIGURED TO UNLOCK A FIRING LOCKOUT”; Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP2 / 190162-2;

[0226] U.S. Patent Application Titled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY WITH CARTRIDGE BASED RETAINER CONFIGURED TO UNLOCK A CLOSURE LOCKOUT,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP3 / 190162-3;

[0227] U.S. Patent Application Titled “UNIVERSAL CARTRIDGE BASED KEY FEATURE THAT UNLOCKS MULTIPLELOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS IN DIFFERENT SURGICAL STAPLERS,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP4 / 190162-4;

[0228] U.S. Patent Application Titled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINERS WITH FRANGIBLE RETENTION FEATURES AND METHODS OF USING SAME,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP5 / 190162-5;

[0229] U.S. Patent Application Titled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH FRANGIBLE AUTHENTICATION KEY,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP6 / 190162-6;

[0230] U.S. Patent Application Titled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH RETRACTABLE AUTHENTICATION KEY,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP7 / 190162-7;

[0231] U.S. Patent Application Titled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER SYSTEM WITH AUTHENTICATION KEYS,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP8 / 190162-8;

[0232] U.S. Patent Application Titled “INSERTABLE DEACTIVATOR ELEMENT FOR SURGICAL STAPLER LOCKOUTS,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP9 / 190162-9;

[0233] U.S. Patent Application Titled “DUAL CAM CARTRIDGE BASED FEATURE FOR UNLOCKING A SURGICALSTAPLER LOCKOUT,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP10 / 190162-10;

[0234] U.S. Patent Application entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH CAM SURFACES CONFIGURED TO ENGAGE PRIMARY AND SECONDARY PORTIONS OF A LOCKOUT OF A SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP11 / 190162-11;

[0235] U.S. Patent Application entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH MOVABLE AUTHENTICATION KEYARRANGEMENTS,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP12 / 190162-12; and

[0236] - U.S. Patent Application Titled “DEACTIVATOR ELEMENT FOR DEFEATING SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICELOCKOUTS,” Attorney Docket No. END9170USNP13 / 190162-13.

[0237] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. design patent applications, each filed on June 25, 2019, which are each incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0238] U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 696,066, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH FIRING SYSTEM AUTHENTICATION KEY”;

[0239] U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 696,067, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AUTHENTICATION KEY”; and

[0240] - U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29 / 696,072, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE.”

[0241] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on February 21, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0242] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,658, entitled “METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER THAT HASSEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS”;

[0243] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,670, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A LOCKOUT KEY CONFIGURED TO LIFTA FIRING MEMBER”;

[0244] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,675, entitled “Surgical staplers with arrangements for maintaining a firing member thereof in a locked configuration unless a compatible cartridge has been installed therein”;

[0245] U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,685, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING CO-OPERATING LOCKOUT FEATURES”;

[0246] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,693, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT AND AN EXTERIOR ACCESS ORIFICE TO PERMIT ARTIFICIAL UNLOCKING OF THE LOCKOUT”;

[0247] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,704, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH FEATURES FOR BLOCKING ADVANCEMENT OF A CAMMING ASSEMBLY OF AN INCOMPATIBLE CARTRIDGE INSTALLED THEREIN”;

[0248] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 281,707, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A DEACTIVATABLE LOCKOUT”;

[0249] U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,741, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT”;

[0250] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,762, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH CARTRIDGE COMPATIBLE CLOSURE AND FIRING LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0251] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,660, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH FIRING MEMBER DRIVEN CAMMINGASSEMBLY THAT HAS an ONBOARD TISSUE CUTTING FEATURE”;

[0252] U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,666, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS”;

[0253] U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,660, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH ASYMMETRIC CLOSURE FEATURES”;

[0254] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,678, entitled “ROTARY DRIVEN FIRING MEMBERS WITH DIFFERENT ANVIL AND FRAMEENGAGEMENT FEATURES”; and

[0255] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,682, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH SEPARATE ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSUREAND FIRING SYSTEMS AND FIRING MEMBER THAT ENGAGES BOTH JAWS WHILE FIRING."

[0256] Numerous specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus will recognize that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are representative and illustrative. Modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0257] The terms "comprise" (and any form of "comprise," such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of "have," such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of "include," such as "includes" and "including"), and "contain" (and any form of "contain," such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs. Thus, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more elements has those one or more elements, but is not limited to having only those one or more elements. Similarly, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features has those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features.

[0258] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein relative to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion positioned away from the clinician. It should also be understood that for brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and / or absolute.

[0259] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in a variety of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in conjunction with open surgical procedures. As the reader continues to review this detailed description, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture formed in tissue, and the like. The working portion or end effector portion of the instrument can be inserted directly into the patient's body or can be inserted through an access device having a working frame through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument can be advanced.

[0260] A surgical stapling system may include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the staple cartridge is not removable from the first jaw or is at least easily replaceable from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about a closing axis; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system also includes an articulation joint configured to allow the end effector to rotate or articulate relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are envisioned that do not include an articulation joint.

[0261] The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal and distal ends. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be sutured, and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil moves toward the staple cartridge to compress the tissue and clamp it against the platform. The staples removably stored in the cartridge body can then be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, wherein the staples are removably stored in the staple cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples are also possible.

[0262] The nails are supported by a nail driver in the cartridge body. The driver is movable between a first or unfired position and a second or fired position to eject the nails from the nail cartridge. The driver is retained in the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes a resilient member configured to grip the cartridge body and retain the retainer to the cartridge body. The driver is movable between its unfired position and its fired position by a slider. The slider is movable between a proximal position adjacent to the proximal end and a distal position adjacent to the distal end. The slider includes a plurality of ramped surfaces configured to slide under the driver toward the anvil and lift the driver, and the nails are supported on the driver.

[0263] In addition to the above, the slider can also be moved distally by the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider and push the slider toward the distal end. The longitudinal slot defined in the magazine body is configured to accommodate the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to accommodate the firing member. The firing member also includes a first cam engaging the first jaw and a second cam engaging the second jaw. As the firing member advances distally, the first cam and the second cam can control the distance or tissue gap between the platform of the nail magazine and the anvil. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut into the tissue captured between the nail magazine and the anvil. It is desired that the knife is positioned at least partially close to the ramp surface so that the nail is ejected before the knife.

[0264] Figure 1 A surgical instrument 1010 is shown including an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably coupled to a housing 1012 . Figure 2 The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is shown disengaged from the housing 1012 or the handle 1014. Figure 3 As can be seen in the figure, the handle 1014 can include a pair of interconnectable handle housing segments 1016 and 1018, which can be interconnected by screws, snap features, adhesives, etc. In the illustrated construction, the handle housing segments 1016, 1018 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 1019. Figure 1 and Figure 3A reusable or non-reusable motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument 1010 is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument 1010 includes a housing 1012, which includes a handle 1014 configured to be grasped, manipulated, and actuated by a clinician. The housing 1012 is configured to be operably attached to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200, which has a surgical end effector 1300 operably coupled thereto and configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or procedures. As will be appreciated from further reference to this detailed description, the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can also be effectively used in conjunction with robotically controlled surgical systems. Thus, the term "housing" may also encompass a housing or similar portion of a robotic system that houses or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system configured to generate and apply at least one control action that can be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their respective equivalents. Furthermore, various components may be "housed" or contained within the housing, or various components may be "associated with" the housing. In such cases, the components may not be housed within or directly supported by the housing. The term "frame" may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument. The term "frame" may also refer to a portion of a robotically controlled surgical instrument and / or a portion of a robotic system that can be used to operably control a surgical instrument. For example, the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein may be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0265] Figure 1 The previous housing 1012 is depicted in conjunction with the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 ( Figure 2 、 Figure 4 and Figure 5), the interchangeable shaft assembly includes an end effector 1300 including a surgical cutting and fastening device configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 1350 therein. The housing 1012 can be configured to be used in conjunction with interchangeable shaft assemblies including end effectors adapted to support staple cartridges of varying sizes and types, and having varying shaft lengths, sizes, and types, among others. Furthermore, the housing 1012 can also be effectively used with a variety of other interchangeable shaft assemblies, including those configured to apply other motions and forms of energy (such as, for example, radiofrequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy, and / or motion) to an end effector arrangement suitable for use in conjunction with a variety of surgical applications and procedures. Furthermore, the end effector, shaft assembly, handle, surgical instrument, and / or surgical instrument system can utilize any suitable fastener that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As will be discussed in further detail below, the handle 1014 operably supports a plurality of drive systems therein that are configured to generate and apply various control actions to corresponding portions of the interchangeable shaft assembly operably attached thereto.

[0266] Now see Figure 3 , the handle 1014 may further include a frame 1020 that operably supports a plurality of drive systems. For example, the frame 1020 may be configured to operably support a "first" or closure drive system, generally designated 1030, that may be used to impart closing and opening motions to the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably attached or coupled thereto. In at least one form, the closure drive system 1030 may include an actuator in the form of a closure trigger 1032 pivotally supported by the frame 1020. More specifically, as Figure 3 As shown, the closing trigger 1032 is pivotally coupled to the handle 1014 via a pin 1033. Such an arrangement enables the closing trigger 1032 to be manipulated by the clinician such that when the clinician grasps the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the closing trigger 1032 can be easily pivoted by the clinician from a starting or "unactuated" position to an "actuated" position, and more specifically, to a fully compressed or fully actuated position. The closing trigger 1032 can be biased to the unactuated position by a spring or other biasing arrangement (not shown). In various forms, the closing drive system 1030 also includes a closing linkage assembly 1034 pivotally coupled to the closing trigger 1032. As shown Figure 3 1034, the closure linkage assembly 1034 may include a first closure link 1036 and a second closure link 1038 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032 via a pin 1035. The second closure link 1038 may also be referred to herein as an "attachment member" and includes a transverse attachment pin 1037.

[0267] See also Figure 3 As can be seen, the first closure link 1036 may have a locking wall or locking end 1039 thereon that is configured to engage with a closure release assembly 1060 pivotally coupled to the frame 1020. In at least one form, the closure release assembly 1060 may include a release button assembly 1062 having a distally projecting locking pawl 1064 formed thereon. The release button assembly 1062 may be pivoted counterclockwise by a release spring (not shown). When the clinician depresses the closure trigger 1032 from its unactuated position toward the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the first closure link 1036 pivots upward to a point where the locking pawl 1064 engages the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036, thereby preventing the closure trigger 1032 from returning to the unactuated position. Thus, the closure release assembly 1060 serves to lock the closure trigger 1032 in the fully actuated position. When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 1032 to allow it to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician simply pivots the release button assembly 1062, causing the locking pawl 1064 to move out of engagement with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036. When the locking pawl 1064 has moved out of engagement with the first closure link 1036, the closure trigger 1032 can be pivoted back to the unactuated position. Other closure trigger locking and release arrangements may also be employed.

[0268] An arm 1061 may extend from the release button assembly 1062. A magnetic element 1063, such as a permanent magnet, may be mounted to the arm 1061, for example. When the release button assembly 1062 is rotated from its first position to its second position, the magnetic element 1063 may move toward the circuit board 1100. The circuit board 1100 may include at least one sensor configured to detect movement of the magnetic element 1063. In at least one embodiment, for example, a "Hall effect" sensor (not shown) may be mounted to the bottom surface of the circuit board 1100. The Hall effect sensor may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field surrounding the Hall effect sensor caused by the movement of the magnetic element 1063. The Hall effect sensor can communicate signals with, for example, a microcontroller, which can determine whether the release button assembly 1062 is in its first position, or in its second position, or / and in any position between the first position and the second position, wherein the first position is associated with the unactuated position of the closing trigger 1032 and the open configuration of the end actuator, and the second position is associated with the actuated position of the closing trigger 1032 and the closed configuration of the end actuator.

[0269] In at least one form, the handle 1014 and frame 1020 operably support another drive system, referred to herein as a firing drive system 1080, which is configured to apply a firing action to a corresponding portion of an interchangeable shaft assembly attached thereto. The firing drive system 1080 may also be referred to herein as a "second drive system." The firing drive system 1080 may employ an electric motor 1082 positioned in the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014. In various forms, the motor 1082 may be, for example, a DC brushed drive motor having a maximum speed of approximately 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 1082 may be powered by a power source 1090, which, in one form, may include a removable power pack 1092. As Figure 3 As seen in the accompanying drawings, for example, the power pack 1092 can include a proximal housing portion 1094 that is configured to be attached to a distal housing portion 1096. The proximal housing portion 1094 and the distal housing portion 1096 are configured to operably support a plurality of batteries 1098 therein. The batteries 1098 can each include, for example, a lithium ion ("LI") or other suitable battery. The distal housing portion 1096 is configured to be removably operably attached to a handle circuit board 1100 that is also operably coupled to the motor 1082. The plurality of batteries 1098 can be connected in series and can be used as a power source for the surgical instrument 1010. Furthermore, the power source 1090 can be replaceable and / or rechargeable.

[0270] As outlined above with respect to the other various embodiments, the electric motor 1082 can include a rotatable shaft (not shown) operably interfaced with a gear reducer assembly 1084, which is mounted in meshing engagement with a set or rack of drive teeth 1122 on a longitudinally movable drive member 1120. In use, the polarity of the voltage provided by the power source 1090 can operate the electric motor 1082 in a clockwise direction, wherein the polarity of the voltage applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed to operate the electric motor 1082 in a counterclockwise direction. When the electric motor 1082 rotates in one direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 1082 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in the proximal direction "PD". The handle 1014 can include a switch that can be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 1082 by the power source 1090. As with other forms described herein, the handle 1014 can further include a sensor configured to detect the position of the drive member 1120 and / or the direction in which the drive member 1120 is moving.

[0271] Actuation of the motor 1082 can be controlled by a firing trigger 1130 that is pivotally supported on the handle 1014. The firing trigger 1130 can pivot between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firing trigger 1130 can be biased to the unactuated position by a spring 1132 or other biasing arrangement such that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 1130, the firing trigger can be pivoted or otherwise returned to the unactuated position by the spring 1132 or biasing arrangement. In at least one form, the firing trigger 1130 can be positioned "outside" of the closing trigger 1032, as discussed above. In at least one form, a firing trigger safety button 1134 can be pivotally mounted to the closing trigger 1032 by a pin 1035. The safety button 1134 can be positioned between the firing trigger 1130 and the closing trigger 1032 and have a pivot arm 1136 projecting therefrom. See Figure 3 When the closure trigger 1032 is in the unactuated position, the safety button 1134 is housed in the handle 1014 and may not be easily accessible to the clinician or movable between a safety position that prevents actuation of the firing trigger 1130 and a fired position in which the firing trigger 1130 can be fired. When the clinician depresses the closure trigger 1032, the safety button 1134 and the firing trigger 1130 pivot downward and can then be manipulated by the clinician.

[0272] As described above, in at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 has teeth 1122 of a rack formed thereon for meshing with corresponding drive gears 1086 of the gear reducer assembly 1084. At least one form also includes a manually actuatable "panic" assembly 1140 configured to enable a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 in the event that the motor 1082 becomes inoperable. The panic assembly 1140 may include a lever or panic handle assembly 1142 configured to be manually pivoted into ratcheting engagement with teeth 1122 also disposed in the drive member 1120. Thus, the clinician can manually retract the drive member 1120 by using the panic handle assembly 1142 to ratchet the drive member 1120 in the proximal direction "PD." US Patent 8,608,045, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM," discloses an emergency arrangement and other components, arrangements, and systems that may also be used with the various apparatuses disclosed herein. US Patent 8,608,045 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0273] Now go to Figure 2and Figure 5 The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a surgical end effector 1300 comprising an elongated frame 1310 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 1350 therein. The end effector 1300 may further include an anvil 2000 pivotally supported relative to the elongated frame 1310. The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulation joint 3020 and an articulation lock 2140 configured to releasably retain the end effector 1300 in a desired position relative to the shaft axis SA. Examples of various features of at least one form of the end effector 1300, the articulation joint 3020, and the articulation lock may be found in U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086, filed on March 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK” (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541). The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, filed on March 14, 2013, and entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK” (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541) is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Figure 4 As can be seen in FIG, interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include a proximal housing or nozzle 1201 comprised of nozzle portions 1202 and 1203 .

[0274] The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include a closure system or closure member assembly 3000 that can be used to close and / or open the anvil 2000 of the end effector 1300. The shaft assembly 1200 may include a spine 1210 that is configured to: first, slidably support a firing member therein; and second, slidably support a closure member assembly 3000 that extends about the spine 1210. Figure 51310 , the distal end 1212 of the spine 1210 terminates in an upper lug mounting feature 1270 and a lower lug mounting feature 1280. The upper lug mounting feature 1270 has a lug slot 1272 formed therein that is adapted to seat and support an upper mounting link 1274 therein. Similarly, the lower lug mounting feature 1280 has a lug slot 1282 formed therein that is adapted to seat and support a lower mounting link 1284 therein. The upper mounting link 1274 includes a pivot bearing socket 1276 therein that is adapted to rotatably receive therein a pivot pin 1292 formed on a frame cover or anvil retainer 1290 attached to a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated frame 1310. The lower mounting link 1284 includes a lower pivot pin 1286 adapted to be received within a pivot hole 1314 formed in a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated frame 1310. Figure 5 The lower pivot pin 1286 is vertically aligned with the pivot bearing socket 1276 to define an articulation axis AA about which the surgical end effector 1300 can be articulated relative to the shaft axis SA. Figure 2 .

[0275] In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 1300 is selectively articulated about an articulation axis AA by an articulation system 2100. In one form, the articulation system 2100 includes a proximal articulation driver 2102 pivotally coupled to an articulation link 2120. Figure 5As can be seen most specifically in the figures, an offset attachment lug 2114 is formed on the distal end 2110 of the proximal articulation driver 2102. A pivot hole 2116 is formed in the offset attachment lug 2114 and is configured to pivotally receive therein a proximal connector pin 2124 formed on the proximal end 2122 of the articulation link 2120. The distal end 2126 of the articulation link 2120 includes a pivot hole 2128 that is configured to pivotally receive therein a frame pin 1317 formed on the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated frame 1310. Thus, axial movement of the proximal articulation driver 2102 will thereby impart articulation to the elongated frame 1310, thereby articulating the surgical end effector 1300 relative to the spine 1210 about the articulation axis AA. More details regarding the construction and operation of the articulation system 2100 can be found in various references incorporated herein by reference, including U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,631, filed on June 28, 2017, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLYMOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER," now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0000464, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. In various circumstances, when the proximal articulation driver 2102 is not moving in the proximal or distal direction, the proximal articulation driver 2102 can be held in place by an articulation lock 2140. Additional details regarding an example of an articulation lock 2140 can be found in U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,631 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0000464) and other references incorporated herein by reference.

[0276] In various circumstances, the spine 1210 can include a proximal end 1211 that is rotatably supported in a base 1240. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1211 of the spine 1210 has threads 1214 formed thereon for threaded attachment to a spine bearing 1216 that is configured to be supported within the base 1240. Figure 4 This arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of the spine 1210 to the base 1240 such that the spine 1210 can be selectively rotated relative to the base 1240 about the shaft axis SA.

[0277] Main references Figure 4 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a closure shuttle 1250 that is slidably supported within the base 1240 such that the closure shuttle can move axially relative to the base. The closure shuttle 1250 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1252 ( Figure 3), which is attached to the second closure link 1038, as will be discussed in further detail below. In at least one example, the closure member assembly 3000 includes a proximal closure member segment 3010 having a proximal end 3012 that is coupled to the closure shuttle 1250 for rotation relative to the closure shuttle. For example, the U-shaped connector 1263 is inserted into the annular slot 3014 in the proximal end 3012 of the proximal closure member segment 3010 and retained within the vertical slot 1253 in the closure shuttle 1250. Such a structure is used to attach the proximal closure member segment 3010 to the closure shuttle 1250 for axial travel therewith while enabling the proximal closure member segment 3010 to rotate relative to the closure shuttle 1250 about the shaft axis SA. The closing spring 1268 is journaled on the proximal closure member segment 3010 and is used to bias the proximal closure member segment 3010 in the proximal direction "PD" and can be used to pivot the closure trigger 1032 to the unactuated position when the shaft assembly is operably coupled to the handle 1014.

[0278] In at least one form, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulation joint 3020. However, other interchangeable shaft assemblies may not be able to articulate. Figure 5 30. As can be seen, for example, a distal closure member or distal closure tube segment 3030 is coupled to the distal end of the proximal closure member segment 3010. The articulation joint 3020 includes a dual-pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022. According to various forms, the dual-pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022 includes an end effector closure tube 3050 having a proximally projecting upper shank 3052 and a lower shank 3054. An upper dual-pivot connector 3056 includes upwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins that respectively engage an upper distal pin hole in the proximally projecting upper shank 3052 and an upper proximal pin hole 3032 in the distally projecting upper shank 3031 of the distal closure tube segment 3030. The lower dual pivot connection 3058 includes upwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins that respectively engage a lower distal pin hole in the proximally projecting lower tang 3054 and a lower proximal pin hole in the distally projecting lower tang 3034. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As will be discussed in further detail below, the closure member assembly 3000 translates distally (direction "DD") to close the anvil 2000, for example, in response to actuation of the closure trigger 1032. The anvil 2000 is opened by translating the closure member assembly 3000 proximally, which causes the end effector closure tube 3050 to interact with the anvil 2000 and pivot the anvil to the open position.

[0279] As also described above, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 also includes a firing member 1900 supported for axial travel within the spine 1210. The firing member 1900 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 configured to be attached to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 1910. The intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 may include a longitudinal slot 1223 in its distal end that may be configured to receive a tab 1912 on the proximal end of the distal knife bar 1910. The longitudinal slot 1223 and the proximal end tab 1912 may be sized and configured to allow relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint 1914. The sliding joint 1914 may allow the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the firing member 1900 to move, thereby articulating the end effector 1300 without moving, or at least substantially moving, the knife bar 1910. Once the end effector 1300 has been properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 can be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1223 contacts the tab 1912, thereby advancing the knife bar 1910 and firing the staple cartridge 1350 positioned within the frame 1310. The knife bar 1910 includes a knife portion 1920 including a blade or tissue cutting edge 1922, including an upper anvil engaging tab 1924 and a lower frame engaging tab 1926. Various firing member configurations and operations are disclosed in various other references incorporated herein by reference.

[0280] like Figure 4As can be seen in the figure, the shaft assembly 1200 also includes a switching barrel 1500 rotatably received on the proximal closure member segment 3010. The switching barrel 1500 includes a hollow shaft segment 1502 having a shaft boss formed thereon for receiving an outwardly projecting actuating pin therein. In various cases, the actuating pin extends through a slot into a longitudinal slot provided in the locking sleeve to facilitate axial movement of the locking sleeve when the locking sleeve is engaged with the articulation driver. The rotary torsion spring 1420 is configured to engage the boss on the switching barrel 1500 and a portion of the nozzle 1201 to apply a biasing force to the switching barrel 1500. The switching barrel 1500 may also include at least partially peripheral openings 1506 defined therein, which are configured to receive peripheral mounting seats extending from the nozzle portions 1202, 1203 and allow relative rotation rather than relative translation between the switching barrel 1500 and the nozzle 1201. The mount also extends through an opening 3011 in the proximal closure member segment 3010 to be seated in a recess 1219 in the spine 1210. Rotation of the switch cylinder 1500 about the shaft axis SA ultimately causes the actuation pin and locking sleeve to rotate between their engaged and disengaged positions. In one arrangement, rotation of the switch cylinder 1500 can be coupled to axial advancement of the closure tube or closure member. Thus, in essence, actuation of the closure system can operatively engage and disengage the articulation drive system from the firing drive system in various ways, as described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK” (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541), and U.S. Patent No. 9,913,642, entitled “SURGICALINSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM,” the entire disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. For example, when the closure member segment 3010 is in its most proximal position corresponding to the "jaw open" position, the closure member segment 3010 will have positioned the switch cartridge 1500 to couple the articulation system with the firing drive system. When the closure tube has moved to its distal position corresponding to the "jaw closed" position, the closure tube has rotated the switch cartridge 1500 to a position where the articulation system is disconnected from the firing drive system.

[0281] Likewise Figure 4As shown, the shaft assembly 1200 may include a slip ring assembly 1600, which may be configured, for example, to conduct power to and / or from the end effector 1300 and / or transmit signals to and / or receive signals from the end effector 1300. The slip ring assembly 1600 may include a proximal connector flange 1604 mounted to a base flange 1242 extending from the base 1240, and a distal connector flange positioned within a slot defined in the shaft housing. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include a first face, and the distal connector flange may include a second face positioned adjacent to and movable relative to the first face. The distal connector flange may rotate relative to the proximal connector flange 1604 about the shaft axis SA. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include a plurality of concentric, or at least substantially concentric, conductors defined within its first face. The connector can be mounted on the proximal side of the connector flange and can have a plurality of contacts, wherein each contact corresponds to and is in electrical contact with one of the conductors. Such an arrangement allows relative rotation between the proximal connector flange 1604 and the distal connector flange while maintaining electrical contact between the two flanges. For example, the proximal connector flange 1604 can include an electrical connector 1606 that can place the conductors in signal communication with a shaft circuit board 1610 mounted to the shaft base 1240. In at least one embodiment, a wiring harness including a plurality of conductors can extend between the electrical connector 1606 and the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1606 can extend proximally through a connector opening 1243 defined in the base flange 1242. See Figure 4More details about the slip ring assembly 1600 can be found, for example, in U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK” (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014 / 0263541), U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 800,067, filed on March 13, 2013, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM” (now U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014 / 0263552), and U.S. Patent 9,345,481, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUETHICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM.” U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541), U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 800,067 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263552), and U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481 are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0282] As discussed above, shaft assembly 1200 may include a proximal portion fixedly mounted to handle 1014 and a distal portion capable of rotating about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portion may rotate relative to the proximal portion about slip ring assembly 1600, as discussed above. The distal connector flange of slip ring assembly 1600 may be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. Furthermore, in addition to the above, a toggle cylinder 1500 may also be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. When the rotatable distal shaft portion rotates, the distal connector flange and toggle cylinder 1500 may rotate synchronously with each other. Furthermore, toggle cylinder 1500 may rotate relative to the distal connector flange between a first position and a second position. When toggle cylinder 1500 is in its first position, the articulation drive system may be operably disengaged from the firing drive system, and thus, operation of the firing drive system may not cause articulation of the end effector 1300 of shaft assembly 1200. When the switch barrel 1500 is in its second position, the articulation drive system can be operably engaged with the firing drive system, so that operation of the firing drive system can cause the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200 to articulate. When the switch barrel 1500 moves between its first position and its second position, the switch barrel 1500 moves relative to the distal connector flange. In various examples, the shaft assembly 1200 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of the switch barrel 1500.

[0283] See again Figure 4, the base 1240 includes at least one, and preferably two, tapered attachment portions 1244 formed thereon that are adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail slots 1702 formed within the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. Figure 3 Each dovetail slot 1702 may be tapered, or in other words, slightly V-shaped, so as to receive the attachment portion 1244 therein in a seating manner. Figure 4 As further seen in FIG, a shaft attachment lug 1226 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222. As will be discussed in further detail below, when the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is coupled to the handle 1014, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is received in a firing shaft attachment bracket 1126 formed in the distal end 1125 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Figure 3 .

[0284] Various shaft assembly embodiments employ a latch system 1710 for removably coupling the shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012 and, more specifically, to the frame 1020. Figure 4 1700. Figure 3 In various embodiments, the locking yoke 1712 is biased in a proximal direction by a spring or biasing member (not shown). Actuation of the locking yoke 1712 can be achieved by a latch button 1722 that is slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1720 mounted to the base 1240. The latch button 1722 can be biased in a proximal direction relative to the locking yoke 1712. As will be discussed in further detail below, the locking yoke 1712 can be moved to an unlocked position by biasing the latch button in a distal direction, which also pivots the locking yoke 1712 out of engagement with the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. When the locking yoke 1712 is "engaged" with the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020, the locking lugs 1716 remain seated within corresponding locking detents or recesses 1704 in the distal attachment flange portion 1700.

[0285] When adopting the interchangeable shaft assembly that comprises the end effector of the type described herein that is suitable for cutting and fastening tissue and other types of end effectors, it may be advantageous to prevent the interchangeable shaft assembly from being inadvertently disengaged from the housing during the actuation of the end effector. For example, in use, the clinician can actuate the closure trigger 1032 to grasp the target tissue and manipulate it into the desired position. Once the target tissue is positioned in the end effector 1300 with the desired orientation, the clinician can fully actuate the closure trigger 1032 to close the anvil 2000 and clamp the target tissue in the appropriate position for cutting and suturing. In this case, the first drive system 1030 has been fully actuated. After the target tissue has been clamped in the end effector 1300, it may be advantageous to prevent the shaft assembly 1200 from being inadvertently disengaged from the housing 1012. A form of the latch system 1710 is configured to prevent such inadvertent disengagement.

[0286] like Figure 4 , the locking yoke 1712 includes at least one, and preferably two, locking hooks 1718 that are adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1256 formed on the closure shuttle 1250. When the closure shuttle 1250 is in the unactuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is not actuated and the anvil 2000 is open), the locking yoke 1712 can be pivoted in the distal direction to unlock the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 from the housing 1012. In this position, the locking hooks 1718 do not contact the locking lug portions 1256 on the closure shuttle 1250. However, when the closure shuttle 1250 is moved to the actuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is actuated and the anvil 2000 is in the closed position), the locking yoke 1712 is blocked from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to pivot the locking yoke 1712 to the unlocked position, or if, for example, the locking yoke 1712 is inadvertently bumped or contacted in a manner that could otherwise cause it to pivot distally, the locking hook 1718 on the locking yoke 1712 will contact the locking lug portion 1256 on the closing shuttle 1250 and prevent the locking yoke 1712 from moving to the unlocked position.

[0287] Attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 will now be described. To begin the coupling process, the clinician can position the base 1240 of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 over or near the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020 such that the tapered attachment portion 1244 formed on the base 1240 is aligned with the dovetail-shaped slot 1702 in the frame 1020. The clinician can then move the shaft assembly 1200 along a mounting axis perpendicular to the shaft axis SA to place the attachment portion 1244 into "operable engagement" with the corresponding dovetail-shaped receiving slot 1702. In doing so, the shaft attachment lug 1226 on the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 will also be seated in the bracket 1126 in the longitudinally movable drive member 1120, and a portion of the pin 1037 on the second closure link 1038 will be seated in the corresponding hook 1252 in the closure shuttle 1250. As used herein, the term "operably engaged" in the context of two components means that the two components are sufficiently engaged with each other such that upon application of an actuation thereto, the components perform their intended action, function, and / or procedure.

[0288] At least five systems of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can be operably coupled to at least five corresponding systems of the handle 1014. A first system can include a frame system that couples and / or aligns the frame or spine of the shaft assembly 1200 with the frame 1020 of the handle 1014. Another system can include a closure drive system 1030 that operably couples the closure trigger 1032 of the handle 1014 with the closure tube 3050 and anvil 2000 of the shaft assembly 1200. As outlined above, the closure shuttle 1250 of the shaft assembly 1200 can engage the pin 1037 on the second closure connector 1038. An additional system can include a firing drive system 1080 that operably couples the firing trigger 1130 of the handle 1014 with the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the shaft assembly 1200. As outlined above, the shaft attachment lugs 1226 can be operably connected to the bracket 1126 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Another system can include an electrical system that can: signal to a controller (such as a microcontroller) in the handle 1014 that a shaft assembly (such as the shaft assembly 1200) has been operably engaged with the handle 1014, and / or conduct power and / or communication signals between the shaft assembly 1200 and the handle 1014. For example, the shaft assembly 1200 can include an electrical connector 1810 operably mounted to the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1810 is configured to be matingly engaged with a corresponding electrical connector 1800 on the control circuit board 1100. More details regarding the circuitry and control systems can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541) and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,142 (now U.S. Patent No. 9,913,642), the complete disclosures of each of which are previously incorporated herein by reference. A fifth system can consist of a latch system for releasably locking the shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014.

[0289] In the illustrated example, the anvil 2000 includes an anvil body 2002 that terminates in an anvil mounting portion 2010. The anvil mounting portion 2010 is movably or pivotally supported on the elongated frame 1310 so as to selectively pivotally travel relative to the elongated channel about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA that is transverse to the shaft axis SA. In the illustrated arrangement, a pivot member or anvil trunnion 2012 extends laterally out of each lateral side of the anvil mounting portion 2010 to be received in a corresponding trunnion bracket 1316 formed in an upright wall 1315 of the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated frame 1310. The anvil trunnion 2012 is pivotally retained in its corresponding trunnion bracket 1316 by a frame cover or anvil retainer 1290. The frame cover or anvil retainer 1290 includes a pair of attachment lugs configured to be retainingly received within corresponding lug recesses or notches formed in an upstanding wall 1315 of a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated frame 1310. Figure 5 .

[0290] Still see Figure 5 In at least one configuration, the distal closure member or end effector closure tube 3050 employs two axially offset proximal and distal positive jaw opening features 3060, 3062. The positive jaw opening features 3060, 3062 are configured to interface with corresponding relief areas and stepped portions formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010, as further described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 635,631, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0000464, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Other jaw opening arrangements may be employed.

[0291] The disclosures of the following patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties: U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0232200, filed May 20, 2003, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT”; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0232199, filed May 20, 2003, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A FIRING LOCKOUT FOR AN UNCLOSED ANVIL”; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0232197, filed May 20, 2003, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN E-BEAM FIRING MECHANISM”; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0232198, filed May 20, 2003, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004 / 0232196, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING,” filed May 20, 2003; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0085123, entitled “ARTICULATING SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING A TWO-PIECE E-BEAM FIRING MECHANISM,” filed August 17, 2017.

[0292] See also Figure 6 , an example of a surgical stapling assembly 4000 is shown. The surgical stapling assembly 4000 can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. For example, the surgical stapling assembly 4000 can be used in conjunction with electrically controlled, battery powered, manually powered, and / or robotically controlled surgical instruments in various forms disclosed in the above-incorporated disclosures. Figure 6As can be seen in the figure, the surgical stapling assembly 4000 includes a surgical stapling device generally designated as 4002, which includes a first jaw or frame 4010 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 4200 therein. The first jaw 4010 can be attached to the spine of a shaft assembly of a surgical instrument or robot in various ways described herein and in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. In the illustrated example, the first jaw 4010 is attached to the spine portion of the shaft assembly ( Figure 6 ). Specifically, the pin 4032 is configured to pass through the alignment hole 4021 in the upright side wall 4020 of the first jaw 4010 and through the hole 4031 in the shaft mounting flange 4030. The shaft mounting flange 4030 is configured to interface with an articulation joint arrangement (not shown) that is configured to facilitate articulation of the first jaw 4010 relative to the shaft assembly in various known configurations. Other methods of attaching and operably interfacing the surgical device 4002 with the shaft of the surgical instrument may also be employed. For example, the suturing device 4002 may be attached to the shaft assembly such that the suturing device (sometimes also referred to as an "end effector") cannot be articulated relative to the shaft assembly.

[0293] Still see Figure 6 , the surgical stapling device 4002 also includes a firing member assembly 4040, which includes a knife bar 4042 attached to a knife member or "firing member" 4050. The knife bar 4042 also interfaces with corresponding components and the firing system in the surgical instrument to receive a firing motion that can advance the knife bar 4042 and the firing member 4050 from a starting position distally to an end position through the staple firing stroke, and also retract the knife bar 4042 and the firing member 4050 proximally to the starting position. In the illustrated arrangement, the firing member 4050 includes a firing member body 4052 that supports a cutting edge or blade 4053. The firing member 4050 also includes legs 4054 formed on the bottom of the firing member body 4052 and extending laterally from each side of the firing member body 4052. The firing member 4050 also includes a pair of top pins or tabs 4056 extending laterally from the firing member body 4052, which are adapted to engage projections on the anvil, as will be discussed further herein. Additionally, the firing member 4050 includes a pair of center pins or tabs 4058 projecting laterally from each side of the firing member body 4052. In some disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the firing member 4050 may also be referred to as an "electron beam" firing member or cutting member.

[0294] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 4002 includes a second jaw or anvil 4100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 4010. The anvil 4100 includes an anvil body portion 4102 and an anvil mounting portion 4110. The anvil body 4102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 4104 having a series of staple forming recesses (not shown) formed therein that are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 4110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion pins 4112 that are configured to be received in corresponding trunnion slots 4022 in the upright sidewalls 4020 of the first jaw 4010. In the illustrated arrangement, the trunnion slots 4022 are slightly "kidney-shaped" and facilitate the pivoting and axial travel of the corresponding trunnion pins 4112 therein. Such pivoting and axial movement of the anvil 4100 may be referred to as "translation" of the anvil during the anvil closing sequence.

[0295] As discussed above and in several disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 4100 can be moved from an open position to a closed position in which a spent or exhausted surgical staple cartridge can be removed from the first jaw or frame 4010 or an unfired surgical staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. The anvil 4100 can be moved between the open and closed positions by an axially movable closing member that can include an end effector closing tube (not shown) that is part of a shaft assembly of a surgical instrument to which the surgical device 4002 is operably attached. For example, when the closing member is moved distally from a proximal position by actuating a closing control system in the surgical instrument, the closing member can operably engage a cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 4110. Such interaction between the closing member and the anvil mounting portion 4110 causes the anvil mounting portion 4110 and the anvil trunnion pin 4112 to pivot and translate upwardly along the trunnion slot 4022 until the closing member moves the anvil 4100 to the fully closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 4100 are properly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible surgical staple cartridge that has been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 4010. When the axially movable closing member is subsequently moved in the proximal direction, the closing member engages the upstanding tabs 4114 on the anvil mounting portion 4110 to return the anvil 4100 to the open position.

[0296] One form of surgical staple cartridge 4200 compatible with surgical stapling device 4002 includes a cartridge body 4202 defining a cartridge deck surface or tissue contacting surface 4204. The cartridge body 4202 also includes a longitudinal slot 4206 that bisects the cartridge deck surface 4204 and is configured to accommodate the axial passageway of the firing member 4050 within the cartridge body 4202 between its starting and ending positions during a staple firing stroke. The longitudinal slot 4206 is positioned along the central axis CA of the cartridge 4200. The surgical staple cartridge 4200 also includes a series of staple pockets 4208 formed in the cartridge body 4202. The staple pockets 4208 can be formed in offset "lines" located on each side of the longitudinal slot 4206. Each staple pocket 4208 can have an associated staple driver (not shown) that supports a surgical staple or fastener (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 4202 is molded from a polymer material having staple pockets 4208 molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets 4208 are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 4202 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their corresponding staple pockets 4208. Once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their corresponding staple pockets 4208, the cartridge pan 4220 is attached to the cartridge body 4202. In one form, the cartridge pan 4220 is formed from a metal material and includes a bottom 4222 that spans the bottom of the cartridge body 4202. The cartridge pan 4220 also includes two upstanding sidewalls 4224 corresponding to each side of the cartridge body 4202. The cartridge pan 4220 can be removably attached to the cartridge body 4202 by hooks 4226 formed on the sidewalls 4224 and configured to engage corresponding portions of the cartridge body 4202 in a hook-like manner. Additionally, the cartridge body 4202 can further have tabs or attachment formations protruding therefrom that are configured to retainably engage corresponding portions of the cartridge pan 4220. When installed, the cartridge pan 4220 can, among other things, prevent drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 4202 during handling and installation of the staple cartridge into the first jaw or frame 4010.

[0297] Depending on the specific cartridge design, some of the staple drivers operably support a single surgical staple thereon, while others support more than one surgical staple thereon. Each surgical staple includes a crown and two upright legs. The crown is typically supported on a bracket arrangement formed in the corresponding staple driver so that when the cartridge is operably seated in frame 4010, the legs are oriented vertically toward the anvil. In some arrangements, the surgical staples have a slightly V-shaped configuration, with the ends of the legs flaring slightly outward. If the cartridge is inadvertently inverted or turned upside down during use, such arrangements can serve to retain the staples in their corresponding staple pockets due to frictional engagement between the legs and the sides of the staple pockets. Other surgical staples are generally U-shaped (with the ends of the legs not flaring outward) and may be more likely to fall out of the staple pockets if the cartridge is inverted before use.

[0298] The surgical staple cartridge 4200 further comprises a slide or cam action member 4230 that is configured to be able to be advanced axially through the cartridge body 4202 during the staple firing stroke. In a "new," "recent," or "unfired" surgical staple cartridge, the slide 4230 is in its most proximal "unfired" position. The slide 4230 comprises a plurality of wedges or cam members 4232 that are configured to driveably engage corresponding lines of staple drivers in the cartridge body. During the staple firing stroke, the firing member 4050 abuts and pushes the slide 4230 distally to contact the staple driver cam, thereby sequentially driving the staple drivers upwardly toward the anvil 4100 as the slide 4230 is driven from its unfired position to its most distal fully fired position within the cartridge body 4202. When the nail driver is driven upward, the nail is driven through the tissue between the platform surface 4204 of the nail magazine 4200 and the anvil 4100, and is in contact with the nail forming lower surface 4104 of the anvil 4100. When the firing member 4050 is driven distally, the tissue cutting knife 4053 on the firing member 4050 cuts through the suture tissue. After the nail firing stroke is completed, and / or after the nail firing stroke of sufficient length is completed, the firing member 4050 retracts toward the proximal side. However, the sliding member 4230 does not retract toward the proximal side with the firing member 4050. Instead, the sliding member 4230 remains at the distal position to which it is pushed by the firing member 4050.

[0299] After the staple cartridge has been fired, or at least partially fired, the cartridge can be removed from the frame, if necessary, and then replaced with another replaceable cartridge. At this point, the suturing device can be reused to continue suturing and incising patient tissue. However, in some cases, a previously fired cartridge may be accidentally loaded into the frame. If the firing member were to advance distally within such a previously fired cartridge, the suturing instrument would cut the patient tissue without suturing it. If the firing member were to advance distally to complete the staple firing stroke without a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge jaws, the suturing instrument would similarly cut the patient tissue without suturing it. Furthermore, various surgical staple cartridges may have different arrays and / or orientations of staples / fasteners therein. Depending on the specific surgical procedure or application, the size of the staples or fasteners, as well as the number of fasteners, may vary depending on the cartridge type. To ensure that the staples are correctly crimped or formed, the surgical staple cartridge must be used in conjunction with a corresponding compatible anvil having the appropriate array of staple-forming pockets therein, as well as appropriate cutting and firing components. If " incompatible " storehouse is loaded into the surgical stapling device with the anvil that does not match with nail storehouse, then nail may not be correctly formed during firing process, and this may lead to catastrophic result. For this reason, surgical stapling assembly 4000 includes one or more lockouts that prevent this situation from occurring, as discussed in more detail below.

[0300] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 4002 includes a first lockout 4300 that is configured to prevent the firing member 4050 from moving distally from its proximal-most starting position unless an authorized or compatible staple cartridge is operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 4010. The first lockout 4300 may also be referred to herein as a "validation" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 4300 includes a single, dual transverse first lockout spring 4310 supported in the proximal end 4014 of the frame 4010 and attached to the shaft mounting flange 4030. For example, in one arrangement, the first lockout spring 4310 includes a first lockout arm 4312 located on one side of the cartridge axis CA and a second lockout arm 4314 located on an opposite side of the cartridge axis CA. The first lockout arm 4312 and the second lockout arm 4314 are attached to a central body portion 4316. See Figure 7 . The spring 4310 is supported in the first jaw or frame 4010 and is attached to the shaft mounting flange 4030 by a pin 4034 that extends through a hole 4036 in the shaft mounting flange 4030 and through a hole 4318 in the first and second lockout arms 4312, 4314. The first and second lockout arms 4312, 4314 each further include a lockout window or opening 4320. The lockout windows 4320 are each adapted to receive therein a corresponding center pin 4058 projecting from an adjacent first or second lateral side of the firing member 4050 when the firing member 4050 is in its proximal-most or starting position. See Figure 8 and Figure 9 .

[0301] Figures 8-10 The first lockout 4300 is shown in a locked position, with the center pin 4058 received within the lockout window 4320 in the first and second lockout arms 4312, 4314. In some arrangements, staple cartridges compatible with the surgical stapling device 4002, or in other words, those with the appropriate number, size, and arrangement of staples, may have one or more unlocking or "verification" keys formed directly on the cartridge body and / or the cartridge tray. These unlocking or "verification" keys are configured to disable the first lockout when the compatible staple cartridge is operably seated in the first jaw or frame. Various staple cartridges with protruding unlocking keys are disclosed below and in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. However, in some cases, a clinician may wish to use a staple cartridge that is compatible with a surgical stapling device but does not originally have an unlocking key. In such cases, the clinician would be unable to otherwise use the compatible staple cartridge in the surgical stapling device. The surgical stapling device 4002 includes features designed to facilitate the use of such compatible staple cartridges that do not originally have an unlocking key feature.

[0302] Now go to Figure 6 and Figure 10 , the stapling assembly 4000 also includes a retainer 4400 that is configured to be removably coupled to a staple cartridge 4200 that is otherwise compatible with the surgical stapling device 4002. In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 4400 includes a top portion 4402 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on the deck surface 4204 of the cartridge body 4202. Thus, in at least one configuration, when the retainer 4400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 4400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202. Thus, when the retainer 4400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, if the staple cartridge 4200 is inverted or turned upside down before use, the retainer 4400 can prevent the surgical staples stored in the staple pockets 4208 from falling out. The retainer 4400 also protects the deck surface from contamination during shipping and storage.

[0303] In one arrangement, the retainer 4400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of retainer tabs 4410 configured to latchably engage outwardly extending deck protrusions 4205 formed on the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 4400 can also include an angled nose portion 4420 and a distal latch tab 4422 configured to latchably engage the distal nose 4203 of the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 4400 can be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the distal latch tab 4422 with the end of the distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 4400 such that the underside of the top portion 4402 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the retainer tabs 4410 are positioned above the deck protrusions 4205 on each side of the cartridge body 4202. Thereafter, the retainer 4400 can be pressed toward the staple cartridge 4200, causing the retainer tabs 4410 to flex laterally outward and snap into latching engagement with corresponding platform protrusions 4205. Other retainer latch arrangements disclosed herein may also be used to removably attach the retainer 4400 to the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 4400 can be removed from the staple cartridge 4200 by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tabs 4422 until the retainer tabs 4410 disengage from the platform protrusions 4205. In the illustrated example, the term "LIFT" is molded, embossed, stamped, or otherwise provided on the nose portion 4420 to provide removal instructions to the user.

[0304] Now see Figure 10-13 The retainer 4400 further includes a verification key 4430 that is configured to disable, deactivate, or unlatch the first lockout 4300 when the retainer 4400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 4500 and the cartridge assembly 4500 has been operably seated in the first jaw or frame 4010. Figure 11 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a right ramp feature 4440 and a left ramp feature 4450 separated by a space 4460 sized to receive the firing member body 4052 therebetween. In the illustrated example, the right ramp feature 4440 is angled downwardly from the top portion 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a proximal right end 4442. The proximal right end 4442 defines a first right cam surface 4444 that is angled inwardly at its distal end and extends distally to a second right cam surface 4446. The second right cam surface 4446 extends from the first right cam surface 4444 to the top portion 4402. Figure 124406 . Similarly, the left ramp feature 4450 is angled downward from the top portion 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a proximal left end 4452. The proximal left end 4452 is angled inward at the distal end and extends distally to a second left cam surface 4456. The second left cam surface 4456 extends from the first left cam surface 4454 to the top portion 4402. The retainer 4400 further includes a retainer keel 4470 that protrudes from the bottom surface of the top portion 4402 and is oriented to be received within the longitudinal slot 4206 in the surgical staple cartridge 4200. The retainer keel 4470 can be used to properly orient the retainer 4400 on the staple cartridge 4200 so that the right ramp feature 4440 and the left ramp feature 4450 extend on each side of the firing member 4050. Additionally, the retainer keel 4470 can be configured to engage the sled 4230 in the staple cartridge 4200 and retain the sled 4230 in an unfired position when the retainer 4400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer keel 4470 can be sized relative to the longitudinal slot 4206 to establish a friction fit therewith to retain the retainer 4400 to the staple cartridge 4200.

[0305] Now see Figure 10 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 43. After the retainer 4400 has been attached to the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 4500, the cartridge assembly 4500 can be longitudinally inserted into the first jaw or frame 4010 so as to contact the right end 4442 of the right ramp feature 4440 of the verification key 4430 with the upstanding unlocking tab 4322 on the first lock arm 4312 and to contact the left end 4452 of the left ramp 4450 with the upstanding unlocking tab 4324 on the second lock arm 4314 of the first lock spring 4310. During the initial longitudinal insertion of the assembled cartridge arrangement 4500 in the proximal direction into the frame 4010, the first right cam surface 4444 biases the first lock arm 4312 of the first lock spring 4310 laterally outward ( Figure 14446 and the second left cam surface 4456 bias the second lockout arm 4314 further laterally outward until the cartridge assembly 4500 is fully operably seated in the first jaw or frame 4010. Figure 15 When the cartridge assembly 4500 has been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 4010, the distal first retaining tab 4326 on the first locking arm 4312 engages a corresponding side of the staple cartridge 4200 to retain the first locking arm 4312 in the unlocked position. Similarly, the distal second retaining tab 4328 formed on the second locking arm 4314 engages the other corresponding side of the staple cartridge 4200 to retain the second locking arm 4314 in the unlocked position. When in this position, the first lockout member 4300 is in the unlocked position, or in other words, is "deactivated." During the unlocking process, the right ramp 4440 and the left ramp 4450 can be augmented by the firing member 4050 in applications where the locking force generated by the first spring 4310 is high.

[0306] The user can then remove the retainer 4400 from the staple cartridge 4200 by prying upward along the distal latch tab 4422 and lifting the retainer 4400 upward until the retainer lugs 4410 disengage from the platform protrusions 4205 on the cartridge body 4202. In the event that the first lockout 4300 fails or is unlocked, the firing member 4050 can be advanced distally from the starting position and placed in a "ready state." After the staple cartridge 4200 has been fired, the firing member 4050 retracts back to the starting position, and the second jaw or anvil 4100 pivots back to the open position. The spent staple cartridge can then be removed from the first jaw or frame 4010. Once the spent staple cartridge 4200 has been removed from the first jaw or frame 4010, the first and second lockout arms 4312, 4314 spring back into engagement with corresponding center pins 4058 on the firing member 4050, once again securing the firing member 4050 in the starting position.

[0307] Conceived other first locking spring arrangements. For example, the first locking spring may comprise only a horizontal locking arm and engage only one side of the firing member. In such an arrangement, it may be necessary to include a verification key having only a ramp to unlock the locking arm.

[0308] As discussed above, when the cartridge assembly 4500 is operably positioned in the frame 4010, the first latch 4300 is deactivated or unlocked to allow the firing member 4050 to be advanced distally from the ready state during the nail firing stroke. When attached to the nail cartridge 4200, the retainer 4400 covers the cartridge platform surface 4204 and prevents nails from falling out of the nail pockets 4208, as well as prevents any debris or contaminants from entering the longitudinal slots 4206 or the nail pockets 4208, which could damage the nail cartridge or prevent it from operating properly. Other variations of the retainer 4400 are contemplated in which only a portion of the cartridge platform surface 4204 is covered by the retainer. Other configurations may not cover any of the nail pockets and / or any of the platform surfaces.

[0309] As also discussed above, after the staple cartridge has been fired or at least partially fired, if necessary, the staple cartridge is removed from the first jaw or frame and then replaced with another compatible staple cartridge. At this point, the suturing device can be reused to continue suturing and cutting into patient tissue. However, in some cases, a previously fired staple cartridge may be accidentally loaded into the frame. If the firing member is advanced distally within such a previously fired staple cartridge (sometimes referred to herein as a "spent" cartridge), the suturing instrument will cut the patient tissue without suturing the patient tissue. Even if the retainer 4400 is accidentally attached to the spent cartridge and the resulting cartridge assembly is subsequently placed into the frame to disable the first locking member, it is conceivable that this may occur. If the firing member is advanced distally to complete the staple firing stroke without a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge jaws at all, the surgical suturing device will similarly cut the patient tissue without suturing the patient tissue. To prevent these situations, the surgical stapling apparatus 4002 further includes a second lockout 4600 that is configured to prevent the firing member 4050 from being advanced distally to complete the staple firing stroke when a spent staple cartridge is seated in the first jaw or frame 4010 .

[0310] Now see Figure 6 and Figure 16-19The knife bar 4042, which may include a solid or laminated structure, includes a spring insert 4044 that is configured to operably interface with a spring plate 4070 that is mounted or landed in the bottom of the first jaw or frame 4010. The spring plate 4070 is provided with an aperture 4072 that is configured to receive the spring insert 4044 therein when the firing member 4050 is in its proximal, "home" position. When in this position, the spring insert 4044 extends into the aperture 4072 and can be used to prevent any unintentional distal movement of the firing member 4050 until desired by the operator. In the illustrated example, the second lockout 4600 also includes a blocking feature or protrusion 4602 formed in the bottom of the frame 4010. If a user attempts to advance the firing member 4050 distally before the magazine has been operably positioned in the frame 4010, the spring insert 4044, in cooperation with the spring plate 4070, will cause the firing member 4050 to rush downward, thereby causing the center pin 4058 on the firing member 4050 to contact the blocking feature 4602 in the frame and thereby preventing the firing member 4050 from being advanced distally.

[0311] Figure 16 and Figure 17 The operation of the second lockout 4600 is shown when a spent staple cartridge 4200S has been installed in the frame 4010. As used in this context, the term "spent" staple cartridge can refer to a staple cartridge that has previously been fully fired or partially fired. In either case, the sled 4230 will be advanced distally from its proximal, unfired position. Figure 16 The firing member 4050 is depicted in a proximal-most starting position with a spent staple cartridge 4200S seated within the frame 4010 . Figure 17 A second lockout 4600 is shown that prevents the firing member 4050 from being advanced distally into the spent cartridge 4200S. Figure 17 As can be seen, the spring insert 4044 cooperates with the spring plate 4070 to cause the firing member 4050 to rush downward, thereby causing the center pin 4058 on the firing member 4050 to contact the blocking feature 4602 in the frame, thereby preventing the firing member 4050 from being advanced distally.

[0312] Figure 18 and Figure 19 The operation of the second lockout 4600 is shown when an unfired staple cartridge 4200 has been seated in the first jaw or frame 4010. Figure 18 and Figure 19 , the slide 4230 is in its most proximal unfired position. The slide 4230 includes an unlocking protrusion 4234 that is configured to be engaged by an unlocking feature 4055 formed on the firing member body 4052. Figure 18The firing member 4050 is shown in a proximal-most starting position with an unfired staple cartridge 4200 seated in the first jaw or frame 4010. As the firing member 4050 is advanced distally, the unlocking feature 4055 on the firing member 4050 engages the unlocking protrusion 4234 on the sled 4230, which causes the firing member 4050 to be lifted upwardly such that the center pin 4058 on the firing member 4050 clears the blocking feature 4060 in the first jaw or frame 4010. The firing member 4050 is now free to continue its distal advancement into the staple cartridge 4200 to complete the staple firing stroke. When the firing member 4050 is advanced distally, the legs 4054 can engage corresponding surfaces on the bottom of the first jaw or frame 4010, and the top pin 4056 can engage a cam surface on the anvil 4100 of the surgical stapling device 4002 that cooperate to position the anvil 4100 and the staple cartridge 4200 relative to each other. Even so, embodiments are contemplated that do not have one or both of the legs 4054 and the top pin 4056.

[0313] As can be understood from the foregoing, the first lockout member 5300 is located proximal to the second lockout member 4600. The first lockout member 5300 is positioned within the surgical stapling device 4002 such that the first lockout member 5300 is located proximal to the slide 4230 of an unfired staple cartridge 4200 that has been positioned in the first jaw or frame 4010. The first lockout member 5300 is configured to be capable of laterally moving between an engaged position, in which the first lockout member prevents the firing member 4050 from being advanced distally from a starting position, and a disengaged position, in which the firing member 4050 can be advanced distally therefrom (sometimes referred to herein as the "ready state"). For example, the first lockout arm 4312 and the second lockout arm 4314 are configured to be capable of moving in a first horizontal plane FP between an engaged position and a disengaged position. See Figure 8 With respect to the second locking member 4600, the firing member 4050 moves vertically along the second plane SP between the unlocked position and the locked position. Figure 9 In the illustrated example, the second plane SP is orthogonal to the first plane FP. When the firing member 4050 is in the ready state, if a firing motion is applied thereto, the firing member 4050 can move distally. However, unless a compatible staple cartridge having a slider in an unfired position is seated in the frame to unlock the second locking element, the firing member will be prevented from advancing distally to complete the staple firing stroke.

[0314] Figure 20-23Another surgical stapling assembly 5000 is shown that is similar in many respects to the surgical stapling assembly 4000 discussed above. The surgical stapling assembly 5000 includes a surgical stapling device 5002 that can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. Figure 20 As can be seen in the figure, the surgical stapling device 5002 includes a first jaw or frame 5010 that is configured to operably support a compatible staple cartridge 4200 therein. The first jaw or frame 5010 can be attached to the spine of a shaft assembly of a surgical instrument or robot in various ways described herein and / or described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. In the illustrated example, the first jaw or frame 5010 is attached to the spine of the shaft assembly ( Figure 20 ). Specifically, the pin 5032 is configured to pass through the alignment hole 5021 in the upright side wall 5020 of the first jaw or frame 5010 and through the hole 5031 in the shaft mounting flange 5030. The shaft mounting flange 5030 is configured to interface with an articulation joint arrangement (not shown) that is configured to facilitate articulation of the first jaw 5010 relative to the shaft assembly in various known configurations. The surgical stapling device 5002 may also be used in conjunction with a shaft assembly that does not facilitate articulation of the surgical stapling device 5002.

[0315] Still see Figure 20, the surgical stapling device 5002 also includes a firing member assembly 5040, which includes a knife bar 5042 attached to a knife member or firing member 5050. The knife bar 5042 also interfaces with corresponding components and a firing system in a surgical instrument or robot to receive a firing motion that can advance the knife bar 5042 and firing member 5050 from a starting position to a final position through a staple firing stroke, and also retract the knife bar 5042 and firing member 5050 proximally to the starting position. In the illustrated arrangement, the firing member 5050 includes a firing member body 5052 supporting a cutting edge or blade 5053. The firing member 5050 also includes legs 5054 formed on the bottom of the firing member body 5052 and extending laterally from each side of the firing member body. The firing member 5050 also includes a pair of top pins or tabs 5056 extending laterally from the firing member body 5052, which are adapted to engage projections on the second jaw or anvil, as will be discussed further herein. Additionally, the firing member 5050 includes a pair of center pins or tabs 5058 projecting laterally from each side of the firing member body 5052. In some disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the firing member 5050 may also be referred to as an "electron beam" firing member or cutting member.

[0316] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 5002 also includes a second jaw or anvil 5100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 5010. The anvil 5100 includes an anvil body portion 5102 and an anvil mounting portion 5110. The anvil body 5102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 5104, which has a series of staple forming recesses (not shown) formed therein, which are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 5110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion pins 5112, which are configured to be received in corresponding trunnion holes 5022 provided in the upright sidewalls 5020 of the first jaw or frame 5010. Unlike the anvil 4100 described above, the anvil 5100 is pivotally pinned to the frame 5010 to pivotally travel relative to the frame around a fixed pivot axis. In other words, unlike the anvil 4100, the anvil 5100 does not experience substantial axial movement or translation during the anvil closing process. In various arrangements, the trunnion aperture 5022 can be sized relative to the trunnion pin 5112 so that the trunnion pin is mounted therein and is free to pivotally travel therethrough, such that the trunnion pin can have some slight axial movement therein, but any such axial movement is much less than the axial translation of the anvil 4100.

[0317] As discussed above and in several disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 5100 can be moved from an open position to a closed position by an axially movable closing member or end effector closing tube (not shown) in which a spent or exhausted staple cartridge can be removed from the first jaw or frame 5010 or an unfired staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. For example, when the closing member is moved distally from a proximal position, the closing tube can operably engage a cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 5110. Such interaction between the closing member and the anvil mounting portion 5110 causes the anvil mounting portion 5110 and the anvil trunnion pin 5112 to pivot until the closing member moves the anvil 5100 to a fully closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 5100 are correctly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible surgical staple cartridge that has been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 5010. When the axially movable closing member is subsequently moved in the proximal direction, the closing member pivots the anvil 5100 back to the open position.

[0318] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 5002 includes a first lockout 5300 that is configured to prevent the firing member 5050 from moving distally from its proximal starting position when an authorized or compatible staple cartridge is not operably positioned in the frame 5010. The first lockout 5300 may also be referred to herein as a "verification" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 5300 includes a single pivoting first spring assembly 5310 supported in the proximal end 5014 of the first jaw or frame 5010 and attached to the shaft mounting flange 5030. In one arrangement, for example, the first spring assembly 5310 includes a first lockout arm 5312 and a second lockout arm 5314 attached to a central body portion 5316. The first spring assembly 5310 is attached to the shaft mounting flange 5030 by a pin 5034 that extends through a hole 5036 in the shaft mounting flange 5030 and through a hole 5318 in the first and second latch arms 5312, 5314. The first and second latch arms 5312, 5314 each further include a latch latch feature 5320. Each latch latch feature 5320 is adapted to releasably capture therein a corresponding center pin 5058 on the firing member 5050 when the firing member 5050 is in its proximal or starting position. Figure 21 . In addition, the first locking spring assembly 5310 also includes one or more pivot springs 5330, which are used to bias or pivot the first spring assembly 5310 downward about the pin 5034 to latch or lock the latch feature 5320 into engagement with the corresponding center pin 5058.

[0319] The surgical stapling assembly 5000 may also include a retainer 5400 similar to the retainer 4400 described above. The retainer 5400 includes a top portion 5402 that is coextensive with the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 and is configured to be received thereon such that, when the retainer 5400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 5400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202. Thus, when the retainer 5400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, the retainer 5400 can prevent the surgical staples stored within the staple pockets 4208 from falling out if the surgical staple cartridge 4200 is inverted or turned upside down prior to use. Other retainer configurations are contemplated in which the retainer top portion does not cover all or any of the staple pockets. In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 5400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of retainer tabs 5410 configured to latchably engage the outwardly extending deck protrusions 4205 on the staple cartridge body 4202. The retainer 5400 can also include an angled nose portion 5420 and a distal latch tab 5422 configured to latchably engage the distal nose 4203 of the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 5400 can be removably coupled to the staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the distal latch tabs 5422 with the ends of the staple cartridge distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 5400 such that the underside of the top portion 5402 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the retainer tabs 5410 are positioned above the deck protrusions 4205 on each side of the staple cartridge body 4202. Thereafter, the retainer 5400 can be pressed toward the staple cartridge 4200, causing the retainer lugs 5410 to flex laterally outward and snap into latching engagement with corresponding deck boss portions 4205. Other retainer latch arrangements disclosed herein can also be used to removably attach the retainer 5400 to the staple cartridge 4200.

[0320] The retainer 5400 also includes a verification key 5430 that is adapted to engage a key recess 5322 formed in the first latch arm 5312 and the second latch arm 5314. Figure 20 54, the verification key 5430 projects proximally from the proximal end 5401 of the top portion 5402 of the retainer 5400 and includes a right ramp feature 5440 and a left ramp feature 5450 separated by a space sized to receive the firing member body 5052 therebetween. In the illustrated example, the ramps 5440 and 5450 are angled downward from the top portion 5402 of the retainer 5400 and are configured to enter the key recess 5322 in the first and second lock arms 5312, 5314.

[0321] In use, the retainer 5400 is removably attached to the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 5500. Thereafter, the cartridge assembly is initially inserted into the first jaw or frame 5010 so that the ramps 5440 and 5450 of the verification key 5430 are inserted into the key recesses 5322 in the first and second lockout arms 5312, 5314. Figure 21 Further longitudinal advancement of the cartridge assembly 5500 in the proximal direction into the first jaw or frame 5010 causes the ramps 5440 and 5450 to pivot the first spring 5310 upwardly into a disengaged or unlocked position wherein the latch feature 5320 has disengaged from the corresponding center pin 5058. Figure 22 When the cartridge assembly 5500 has been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 5010, the distally facing pawl 5326 formed on each of the first and second lockout arms 5312, 5314 remains engaged with the proximal end of the staple cartridge 4200, as shown. Figure 22 4205 . Figure 23 .

[0322] The surgical stapling device 5002 also includes a second lockout 5600 that is very similar to the second lockout 4600 described above. Figure 20 and Figure 21 , the knife bar 5042, which may include a solid or laminated structure, includes a spring insert 5044 that is configured to operably interface with a spring plate 5070 mounted in the bottom of the first jaw 5010. The spring plate 5070 is used to pivot the firing member 5050 downward so that the center pin 5038 thereon contacts a frame blocking or abutment feature (not shown) in the bottom of the frame 5010, unless the unlocking feature 5055 on the unfired member 5050 engages the unlocking protrusion 4234 on the slide 4230, thereby causing the firing member 5050 to be lifted upward so that the center pin 5058 on the firing member 5050 clears the blocking feature in the frame 5010, as discussed above.

[0323] Figure 24-26An alternative compatible surgical staple cartridge 4200' is shown that is configured to actuate the first lockout 5300 in the manner described above. However, in this arrangement, the verification key 5030' is formed on the cartridge pan 4220'. Figure 24 As can be seen in the figure, the verification key 5030' includes a right ramp feature 5440' and a left ramp feature 5450' that are bent into the magazine tray 4220' to protrude proximally therefrom. A reinforcing rib 5441' may be stamped into each joint where the ramps 5440' and 5450' are formed to provide additional support and rigidity to each of the ramps 5440', 5450'. In the illustrated example, the ramp 5440' has an angled proximal end 5442', and the ramp 5450' includes an angled proximal end 5452. The ends 5442', 5452' are each configured to enter a key recess 5322 in the first and second locking arms 5312, 5314 to allow the first locking member 5300 to pivot in the manner described above. The first locking member 5300 further operates in the manner described above.

[0324] See also Figure 27 , an example of a surgical stapling assembly 6000 is shown. The surgical stapling assembly 6000 includes a surgical stapling device 6002 that can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments or robots described in various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. Figure 27 As can be seen in FIG, the surgical stapling device 6002 includes a first jaw or frame 6010 configured to operably support the staple cartridge 4200 therein. The first jaw or frame 6010 is secured to the base of the staple cartridge 4200 by an axis mounting flange 4030 ( Figure 6 ) is attached to a spine (not shown) of the shaft assembly in various ways as described herein. The surgical stapling device 6002 also includes a firing member assembly comprising a knife rod attached to a knife member or "firing member" 4050, as described above.

[0325] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 6002 includes a second jaw or anvil 6100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 6010. The anvil 6100 is similar to the anvil 4100 described above and includes an anvil body 6102 and an anvil mounting portion 6110. The anvil body 6102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 6104 having a series of staple forming recesses (not shown) formed therein that are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 6110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion assemblies 6112. Each trunnion assembly 6112 includes a locking lug portion 6120 that protrudes outwardly and downwardly, and the locking lug portion has a trunnion pin 6122 extending therefrom. Each trunnion pin 6122 is configured to be received in a corresponding trunnion slot 6022 in the upright sidewall 6020 of the first jaw 6010. In the illustrated arrangement, the trunnion slot 6022 is somewhat "kidney-shaped" and facilitates pivoting and axial travel of the corresponding trunnion pin 6122 therein.

[0326] As discussed above and in several disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 6100 can be moved from an open position to a closed position by an axially movable closing member or end effector closing tube (not shown), in which a used or exhausted surgical staple cartridge can be removed from the frame 6010 or a fresh, new staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. For example, when the closing member is moved distally from a proximal position, the closing member can operably engage a cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 6110. Such interaction between the closing member and the anvil mounting portion 6110 causes the anvil mounting portion 6110 and the anvil trunnion pin 6122 to pivot and translate upwardly along the trunnion slot 6022 until the closing member moves the anvil 6100 to the closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 6100 are correctly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible staple cartridge that has been operably positioned in the frame 6010. When the axially movable closure member is subsequently moved in a proximal direction, the closure member interfaces with the upstanding tab 6114 on the anvil mounting portion 6110 to return the anvil 6100 to the open position.

[0327] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 6002 includes a first lockout 6300 that is configured to prevent the second jaw or anvil 6100 from moving from an open position to a closed position via a closing member. The first lockout 6300 may also be referred to herein as a "verification" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 6300 includes a first lockout arm 6310 that is pivotally supported in the frame 6010 by a lockout pin 6312 attached thereto. In one example, the first lockout arm 6310 is made of stainless steel or the like, and the lockout pin 6312 is welded or otherwise attached thereto. The lockout pin 6312 is pivotally disposed in a pivot hole 6013 in the frame 6010 to facilitate pivotal travel of the first lockout arm 6310 between a locked position and an unlocked position. See Figure 28 In the illustrated example, a lockout feature 6316 is formed on the proximal end 6314 of the first lockout arm 6310 and is configured to blockingly engage the locking lug portion 6120 on the corresponding trunnion assembly 6112 when the first lockout arm 6310 is in the engaged position. When the lockout feature 6316 blockingly engages the locking lug portion 6120 on the trunnion assembly 6112, the lockout feature 6316 prevents the trunnion assembly 6112 from traveling within the corresponding trunnion slot 6022 in the first jaw or frame 6010, effectively preventing the second jaw or anvil 6100 from moving from the open position to the closed position when a closing motion is applied thereto. This position of the first lockout arm 6310 may be referred to herein as the "jaw locked position." It should be understood that the lockout feature 6316 and the locking lug portion 6120 may be sufficiently strong to resist a substantial amount of closing motion applied to the anvil 6100, thereby preventing the anvil 6100 from closing.

[0328] Still see Figure 28 , a first locking spring 6330 is supported in a corresponding side wall 6020 of the first jaw or frame 6010 to bias the first locking arm 6310 in a locking direction LD to an engaged, locked, or "jaw locked" position, wherein the first locking arm 6310 prevents the anvil 6100 from moving from the open position to the closed position. A travel limiting plate or mounting plate 6070 is supported within the frame 6010 and attached to the shaft mounting assembly. The travel limiting plate 6070 also provides lateral support to the first locking arm 6310 when in the jaw locked position. See. Figure 29 .like Figure 28 and Figure 29, the first lockout arm 6310 further includes an upstanding actuator cam arm 6322 formed on a distal end 6320 of the first lockout arm 6310. The actuator cam arm 6322 includes an actuator cam surface 6324. The first lockout arm 6310 further includes a retaining tab 6326 that is configured to be received within a corresponding opening or tab window 6024 provided in the frame sidewall 6020.

[0329] Now go to Figure 27 The stapling assembly 6000 further includes a retainer 6400 configured to be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200. In various embodiments, the retainer 6400 is substantially similar to the retainer 4400 described above, except for the verification key 6430. In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 6400 includes a top portion 6402 that is coextensive with the deck surface 4204 and is configured to be received thereon such that, when the retainer 6400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 6400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 therein. In alternative embodiments, the retainer top portion may cover only some of the staple pockets or none at all. The retainer 6400 may be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of retainer tabs 6410 configured to latchably engage outwardly extending deck boss portions 4205 formed on the staple cartridge body 4202. The retainer 6400 can further include an angled nose portion 6420 and a distal latch tab 6422 configured to latchably engage the distal nose 4203 of the staple cartridge body 4202. The retainer 6400 can be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the latch tab 6422 with the end of the distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 6400 such that the underside of the top portion 6402 of the retainer 6400 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the retainer tabs 6410 are positioned over the deck protrusions 4205 on each side of the cartridge body 4202. Thereafter, the retainer 6400 can be pressed toward the staple cartridge 4200, causing the retainer tabs 6410 to flex laterally outward and snap into latching engagement with the corresponding deck protrusions 4205. Other retainer latch arrangements disclosed herein may also be used to removably attach the retainer 6400 to the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 6400 can be removed from the staple cartridge 4200 by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tab 6422 and lifting upward until the retainer lugs 6410 disengage from the deck boss portion 4205. In the illustrated example, the term "LIFT" is molded or stamped into the nose portion 6420 to provide removal instructions to the user.

[0330] Now see Figures 32 to 35The retainer 6400 further includes a verification key 6430 that is configured to disable, unlock, or unlatch the first lockout 6300 when the retainer 6400 is attached to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 and the surgical staple cartridge 4200 has been operably seated in the first jaw or frame 6010. Figure 32 As can be seen in FIG, the verification key 6430 protrudes proximally from the proximal end 6401 of the top portion 6402 of the retainer 6400 and includes an angled ramp feature 6440 positioned on one side of the cartridge axis CA when the retainer 6400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200. In the illustrated example, the ramp 6440 angles downward from the top portion 6402 of the retainer 6400 and includes a proximal end 6442 defining a first or proximal cam surface 6444 angled inwardly at the distal end. A second or distal cam surface 6446 is located below the first cam surface 6444. These dual sequential cam surfaces 6444, 6446 are configured to interface with the actuator cam surface 6324 on the actuator cam arm 6322 to move the first latch arm 6310 from a locked or jaw locked position to an unlocked or jaw closed position. When the staple cartridge supporting the retainer 6400 is operably seated in the first jaw or frame 6010, this arrangement provides little space for the verification key 6430 to unlock and actuate the actuator cam arm 6322. The dual cam surface arrangement facilitates pivoting the first lockout arm 6310 to actuate the first lockout arm 6310 to a disengaged or jaw closed position with sufficient pivot travel. For example, this pivot travel can be more than twice the width of the ramp 6440.

[0331] Figure 29 The first lockout 6300 is shown in a locked or jaw locked position, wherein the first lockout arm 6310 is pivoted to a position wherein the lockout feature 6316 blocks engagement with the locking lug portion 6120 on the trunnion assembly 6112 on the anvil 6100. Referring now to Figure 36 , after the retainer 6400 has been attached to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 6500, the cartridge assembly 6500 can be inserted into the first jaw or frame 6010 such that the first cam surface 6444 engages the actuator cam surface 6324 on the actuator cam arm 6322 and begins to pivot the first lockout arm 6310 away from the locked or jaw locked position to the intermediate position. Continued longitudinal insertion of the assembled cartridge arrangement 6500 in the proximal direction into the frame 6010 causes the first cam surface 6444 to disengage from the actuator cam surface 6324 and the lower second cam surface 6446 to engage the actuator cam surface 6324 to move the first lockout arm 6310 from the intermediate position to the jaw closed position. See Figure 37. When the first lockout arm 6310 is in the locked or jaw locked position, the actuator cam arm 6322 is located distally of the firing member 6050. The lower second cam surface 6446 completes the pivotal travel of the first lockout arm 6310 so that the actuator cam arm 6322 does not interfere with the operation of the firing member 6050 while allowing the anvil 6100 to move to the closed position. When the first lockout arm 6310 is in the unlocked or jaw closed position, the retaining tab 6326 is received within the tab window 6024 in the frame sidewall 6020 and is retained therein by the staple cartridge 4200. When in this position, the first lockout member 6300 is in the jaw closed position, or in other words, is "deactivated," unlocked, or unlatched. The user can then remove the retainer 6400 from the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by prying upward along the distal latch tab 6422 and lifting the retainer 6400 upward until the retainer lugs 6410 are disengaged from the deck boss portion 4205 .

[0332] As will be appreciated from the foregoing, the space required to interface with the first lockout member 6300 is available when the anvil 6100 is open, but unavailable when the anvil 6100 is closed. The retainer 6400 is present on the staple cartridge 4200 only when the anvil 6100 is open during the cartridge insertion process. Thereafter, the retainer 6400 is removed from the staple cartridge 4200. When the retainer 6400 is in place, the anvil 6100 cannot be closed. When closed, the anvil 6100 occupies the space previously occupied by the retainer 6400. This arrangement is very different from cartridge-based proof key arrangements that remain resident in the stapling device during the closing and firing of the device. In this arrangement, dual continuous ramp / camming surfaces are employed to allow the first lockout arm 6310 to move laterally through a distance that is at least approximately twice the width of the proof key 6430. This can be a significant aspect of the design.

[0333] The proximal high ramp or cam action surface begins the unlocking movement and engages the upright actuator cam arm 6322 distal to the firing member 4050. It should be understood that a fixed locking feature that cannot be moved or removed will not be able to reach this area without affecting the ability to move the firing member 4050 through the nail firing stroke. The second lower ramp / cam action surface completes the unlocking movement of the first unlocking arm 6310, allowing the anvil 6100 to be fully unblocked for closure. The second ramp / cam action surface is sequentially spaced behind the first ramp / cam action surface so that the second ramp / cam action surface can only engage the distal end of the first locking arm after the first ramp / cam action surface has pivoted the first locking arm 6310 to the intermediate position.

[0334] Figure 38The staple cartridge 4200 is shown operably mounted in the frame 6010, with the first lockout 6300 disabled and the retainer 6400 removed from the staple cartridge 4200. The anvil 6100 can now be moved between an open position and a closed position, and the surgical staple cartridge 4200 can be fired in other ways. In at least one embodiment, the surgical stapling device 6002 can further include a second lockout 4600 configured to prevent the firing member 4050 from advancing distally to complete the staple firing stroke when the spent staple cartridge is mounted in the first jaw or frame 6010 in the various manners discussed above. After the staple cartridge 4200 has been fired, the firing member 4050 retracts back to the starting position, and the second jaw or anvil 6100 pivots back to the open position. The spent staple cartridge can then be removed from the first jaw or frame 6010. Once the spent staple cartridge 4200 has been removed from the first jaw or frame 6010 , the first lockout spring biases the first lockout arm 6310 back to the jaw locked position wherein the second jaw or anvil 6100 is prevented from moving from the open position to the closed position.

[0335] Figure 38A 6 is another top view of the surgical stapling apparatus 6002 with the cartridge assembly 6500′ disposed therein, the cartridge assembly including the retainer 6400′ attached to the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 6400′ is similar to the retainer 6400 described above, except that a verification key 6430′ and a ramp 6440′ are incorporated into the sidewall 6403′ of the retainer 6400′. The retainer 6400′ can otherwise operate in the same manner as the retainer 6400 discussed above.

[0336] Figure 39 4200" is a perspective view of the proximal end of a staple cartridge 4200" that is identical to staple cartridge 4200 described above, except that the verification key 4228" is folded into a cartridge tray 4220" that is attached to the cartridge body 4202" as shown. Figure 40-42 As shown, the staple cartridge 4200" is configured to be used in conjunction with a surgical stapling assembly 6000', which includes a surgical stapling device 6002', which includes a first lockout member 6300'. The surgical stapling device 6002' is substantially identical to the surgical stapling device 6002, except that the distal end 6311' of the first lockout arm 6310' is pivotally supported in the frame 6010' by a lockout pin 6312' attached thereto. The proximal end 6314' of the first lockout arm 6310' is identical to the proximal end 6314 of the first lockout arm 6310 and is configured to blockingly engage a locking lug portion on a corresponding trunnion assembly 6112' of the anvil 6100' in the manner described in detail above. The lockout spring 6330' is used to pivot the first lockout arm 6310' to the locked position in the manner described above. Figure 40The staple cartridge 4200" is shown inserted into the frame 6010'. Figure 40 As can be seen in FIG, the first locking arm 6310' is in a locked or jaw locked position, wherein the proximal end 6314' ( Figure 41 ) engages with the locking lugs on the trunnion assembly 6112' to prevent closing of the anvil 6100'. Figure 41 and Figure 42 The staple cartridge 4200 is shown fully seated within the frame 6010'. Figure 41 and Figure 42 As can be seen in FIG, the verification key 4228 "has pivoted the first locking arm 6310' into the jaw closed position and holds the first locking arm 6310' in that position. When in the jaw closed position, the anvil 6100 is free to pivot closed, as shown in FIG. Figure 41 In this arrangement, the verification key 4228" comprises a portion of the staple cartridge and is not mounted to the removable retainer. The verification key 4228" maintains the first lockout arm 6310' in the jaw closed position while the staple cartridge remains seated in the frame 6010' throughout the stapling procedure.

[0337] After the staple cartridge 4200' has been fired, the user returns the firing member of the surgical stapling device 6002' to the starting position, and the anvil 6100' pivots to the open position, allowing the spent staple cartridge to be removed from the frame 6010'. When the spent staple cartridge 4200' is removed from the frame 6010', the locking spring 6330' pivots the first locking arm 6310' back to the jaw locked position. In some cases, a spent staple cartridge can be "reprocessed" for reuse in another stapling procedure and / or another stapling device. For those reprocessing entities, it is important to install the appropriate surgical staples and the appropriate number of surgical staples into the desired reprocessing staple cartridge, making the cartridge compatible with the specific stapling device to ensure the desired results during use. Unfortunately, some reprocessing entities sometimes fail to properly reprocess spent cartridges, but still provide the reprocessed spent cartridges as new cartridges manufactured by the original manufacturer. End users may inadvertently obtain a defective cartridge and use it in a surgical stapling device. To prevent this from happening, once the spent cartridge has been removed from the surgical stapling apparatus 6002', the verification key 4228" may be irreversibly collapsed. For example, Figure 39 As can be seen in the figure, the verification key 4228" is formed with a pair of lugs 4229", which can be slidably received in a narrow slot 4223" provided in the magazine tray 4220". By applying a crushing force FF to the end of the verification key 4228", the key can be crushed against the proximal end 4225" of the magazine tray 4220", thereby rendering the verification key 4228" inoperable for future use.

[0338] Figure 43is a perspective view of the proximal end of a staple cartridge 4200'" which is identical to the staple cartridge 4200 described above, except that the verification key 4228'" is folded into the cartridge tray 4220'" which is attached to the cartridge body 4202'" as shown. In this embodiment, the verification key 4228'" protrudes from a top flap 4225'" of the cartridge tray 4220'" which is folded over a portion of the cartridge deck 4204'" which may be used to enhance the strength of the verification key 4228'" The verification key 4228'" may also include a folded reinforcing wall portion 4227'" and have an angled actuation or cam surface 4229A'" and a latch surface 4229B'" As shown Figures 44-46 As shown, staple cartridge 4200'" is configured to be used in conjunction with a surgical stapling assembly 6000", which includes a surgical stapling device 6002", which includes a first lockout 6300".

[0339] In many respects, the surgical stapling device 6002" is substantially identical to the surgical stapling device 6002 and includes a first lockout arm 6310", which is pivotally supported in the frame 6010" by a lockout pin 6312" attached thereto. The proximal end 6314" of the first lockout arm 6310" can be identical to the proximal end 6314 of the first lockout arm 6310 and is configured to blockingly engage the locking lug portion on the corresponding trunnion assembly 6112" of the anvil 6100" in the manner described in detail above. The lockout spring 6330" is used to pivot the first lockout arm 6310" to the locked or jaw locked position in the manner described above. The distal end of the first lockout arm 6310" includes an upright actuator cam arm 6322", which is configured to be engaged by the verification key 4228'" on the staple cartridge 4200'".

[0340] Figure 46 The staple cartridge 4200" is shown inserted into the frame 6010'. The first lockout arm 6310" is in a jaw locked position in which the proximal end 6314" blocks engagement with a locking lug on the trunnion assembly 6112' to prevent closure of the anvil 6100". During the initial insertion of the staple cartridge 4200'" into the frame 6010", the angled actuation or cam surface 4229A'" has contacted the upstanding actuator cam arm 6322'" to begin pivoting the first lockout arm 6310'" away from the jaw locked position. Continued insertion of the staple cartridge 4200'" into the frame 6010" causes the verification key 4228'" to pivot the first lockout arm 6310'" to the unlocked or jaw closed position, wherein the actuator cam arm 6322'" has disengaged from the angled cam surface 4229A'" and is retained in the unlocked or jaw closed position by the latch surface 4229B'" on the verification key 4228'". See FIG. Figure 44 and Figure 45. When in the unlocked or jaw closed position, the anvil 6100" is free to pivot closed. In this arrangement, the verification key 4228'" comprises a portion of the staple cartridge and is not mounted to the removable retainer. The verification key 4228'" maintains the first lockout arm 6310" in the jaw closed position while the staple cartridge 4200'" remains seated in the frame 6010" throughout the stapling procedure.

[0341] Figure 47 4700 is a perspective view of the proximal end of a staple cartridge 4700 that is largely identical to the staple cartridge 4200 described above, except that the verification key 4728 is folded into the cartridge tray 4720, which is attached to the cartridge body 4702, as shown. In this embodiment, the verification key 4728 protrudes from a top flap 4725 of the cartridge tray 4720, which is folded over a portion of the cartridge deck 4704 that can be used to enhance the strength of the verification key 4728. The verification key 4728 includes an angled actuation or cam surface 4729A and a latch surface 4729B. The verification key 4728 is folded to extend below the plane defined by the cartridge deck 4704 and can be used, for example, in the manner described above with the surgical stapling device 6002" or other surgical stapling devices having slightly shorter actuator cam arms.

[0342] Figures 48-51 Another surgical stapling assembly 7000 is shown that is similar in many respects to the surgical stapling assembly 6000 discussed above. The surgical stapling assembly 7000 includes a surgical stapling device 7002 that can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments or robots described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. Figure 48 As can be seen in FIG, the surgical stapling device 7002 includes a first jaw or frame 7010 configured to operably support the staple cartridge 4200 therein. The first jaw or frame 7010 is attached to the spine of the shaft assembly in various ways as described herein. In the illustrated example, the first jaw or frame 7010 is attached to the spine of the shaft assembly by a shaft mounting flange 7030 that is pinned or otherwise attached to the proximal end 7014 of the first jaw 7010 by a pin 7032. Figure 48 7002 is not shown in the figure). Specifically, the pin 7032 is configured to pass through the alignment hole 7021 in the upright side wall 7020 of the first jaw or frame 7010 and through the hole 7031 in the shaft mounting flange 7030. The shaft mounting flange 7030 is configured to interface with an articulation joint arrangement (not shown) that is configured to facilitate articulation of the first jaw 7010 relative to the shaft assembly in various known configurations. The surgical stapling device 7002 can also be used in conjunction with a shaft assembly that does not facilitate articulation of the surgical stapling device 7002.

[0343] Still see Figure 48 , the surgical stapling device 7002 also includes a firing member assembly 4040, which includes a knife bar 4042 attached to a knife member or firing member 4050. The operation of the firing member 4050 and the knife bar 4042 is discussed in detail above. In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 7002 also includes a second jaw or anvil 7100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 7010. The anvil 7100 includes an anvil body portion 7102 and an anvil mounting portion 7110. The anvil body 7102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 7104 having a series of staple forming dimples (not shown) formed therein that are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into forming contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 7110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion pins 7112 that are configured to be received in corresponding trunnion holes 7022 in the upright sidewalls 7020 of the first jaw or frame 7010. Unlike the anvil 6100 described above, the anvil 7100 is pivotally pinned to the frame 7010 for pivotal travel relative to the frame about a fixed pivot axis. In other words, unlike the anvil 6100, the anvil 7100 does not substantially move axially or translate during the anvil closing process.

[0344] As discussed above and in several of the disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 7100 can be moved from an open position to a closed position by an axially movable closure member or end effector closure tube 7600, in which a spent or expended staple cartridge can be removed from the first jaw or frame 7010 or an unfired staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. For example, when the closure tube 7600 is moved distally from a proximal position, the closure tube 7600 can operably engage a cam surface 7113 on the anvil mounting portion 7110. This interaction between the closure tube 7600 and the anvil mounting portion 7110 causes the anvil mounting portion 7110 and the trunnion pin 7112 to pivot until the closure member moves the anvil 7100 to a fully closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 7100 are properly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible staple cartridge 4200 that have been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 7010. When the axially movable closure tube 7600 is subsequently moved in a proximal direction, the tabs 7602 on the closure tube 7600 interface with the tabs 7114 on the anvil mounting portion 7110 to pivot the anvil 7100 back to the open position.

[0345] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 7002 includes a first lockout 7300 that is configured to prevent the second jaw or anvil 7100 from moving from an open position to a closed position via the closing member 7600. The first lockout 7300 may also be referred to herein as a "verification" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 7300 includes a first lockout arm 7310 that is pivotally supported in the first jaw or frame 7010 by a lockout pin 7312 attached thereto. In one example, the first lockout arm 7310 is made of stainless steel or the like, and the lockout pin 7312 can be machined into its proximal end. The lockout pin 7312 is pivotally disposed in a pivot hole 7013 in the frame 7010 to facilitate pivotal travel of the first lockout arm 7310 in the locking direction LD between a jaw locked position and a jaw closed position. See Figure 50 In the illustrated example, the first lockout arm 7310 is configured to blockingly engage a locking lug portion 7120 projecting downwardly from the anvil mounting portion 7110 when the first lockout arm 7310 is in the jaw locked position. When the first lockout arm 7310 is in the locked or engaged position, pivotal travel of the anvil 7100 is prevented when the locking lug portion 7120 contacts the first lockout arm 7310. It should be understood that the first lockout arm 7310 and the locking lug portion 7120 are each sufficiently strong to resist a substantial amount of closing motion applied to the anvil 7100 to prevent closing of the anvil 7100.

[0346] Now see Figure 50 , a first locking spring 7330 is supported in a corresponding side wall 7020 of the first jaw or frame 7010 to bias the first locking arm 7310 in a locking direction LD to a locked or jaw locked position, wherein the first locking arm 7310 prevents the anvil 7100 from moving from the open position to the closed position. Figure 50 , the first latch arm 7310 further includes an upstanding actuator cam arm 7322 formed on the distal end 7320 of the first latch arm 7310. The actuator cam arm 7322 includes an actuator cam surface 7324 thereon. The first latch arm 7310 further includes a retaining tab 7326 that is configured to be received within a corresponding opening or tab window 7024 provided in the frame sidewall 7020.

[0347] Go to again Figure 48, the suturing assembly 7000 also includes a retainer 7400 that is configured to be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200. In many respects, the retainer 7400 is substantially similar to the retainer 4400 described above. In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 7400 includes a top portion 7402 that is coextensive with the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge body 4202 and is configured to be received thereon. When the retainer 7400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 7400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202. In other versions, only some or none of the staple pockets are covered. The retainer 7400 can be molded from a polymer material and includes a plurality of retainer tabs 7410 that are configured to latchably engage the outwardly extending deck boss portions 4205. The retainer 7400 can further comprise an angled nose portion 7420 and a distal latch tab 7422 configured to latchably engage the distal nose 4203 of the cartridge body 4202 .

[0348] The retainer 7400 can be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the distal latch tab 7422 with the end of the distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 7400 so that the underside of the top portion 7402 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the retainer tabs 7410 are positioned above the deck protrusions 4205 on each side of the cartridge body 4202. Thereafter, the retainer 7400 can be pressed toward the staple cartridge 4200, causing the retainer tabs 7410 to flex laterally outward and snap into latching engagement with the corresponding deck protrusions 4205. Other retainer latch arrangements disclosed herein can also be used to removably attach the retainer 7400 to the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 7400 can be removed from the staple cartridge 4200 by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tab 7422 and lifting upward until the retainer tabs 7410 disengage from the deck protrusions 4205. In the illustrated example, the term "LIFT" is molded or embossed into the nose portion 7420 to provide removal instructions to the user.

[0349] Now see Figures 53-56 The retainer 7400 further includes a verification key 7430 that is configured to disable the first lockout 7300 when the retainer 7400 is attached to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 and the surgical staple cartridge 4200 has been operably seated in the first jaw or frame 7010. Figure 53As can be seen in the figure, the verification key 7430 protrudes proximally from the proximal end 7401 of the top portion 7402 of the retainer 7400 and includes a right ramp feature 7440 and a left ramp feature 7450 separated by a space 7460 sized to receive the firing member body 4052 therebetween. In the illustrated example, the right ramp 7440 angles downward from the top portion 7402 of the retainer 7400 and includes a proximal right end 7442 that includes a first right or proximal right cam surface 7444 angled inwardly at its distal end. A second right or distal right cam surface 7446 is located below the first right cam surface 7444. These dual sequential cam surfaces 7444, 7446 are configured to interface with the actuator cam surface 7324 on the actuator cam arm 7322 to move the first latch arm 7310 from the jaw locked position to the "jaw closed position" in the various manners described above. Similarly, the left ramp 7450 angles downward from the top portion 7402 of the retainer 7400 and includes a proximal left end 7452 including a first left or proximal left cam surface 7454 angled inwardly at the distal end. A second left or distal left cam surface 7456 is located below the first right cam surface 7444. These dual sequential cam surfaces 7454, 7456 are configured to interface with the actuator cam surface 7324 on the actuator cam arm 7322 of the first lockout arm 7310 mounted on the left or opposite side of the frame axis FA. The retainer 7400 further includes a retainer keel 7470 that protrudes from the bottom surface of the top portion 7402 and is oriented to be received within the longitudinal slot 4206 in the surgical staple cartridge 4200. The retainer keel 7470 can be used to properly orient the retainer 7400 on the surgical staple cartridge 4200 such that the right ramp 7440 and the left ramp 7450 extend on each side of the firing member 4050. The retainer keel 7470 can also be sized relative to the longitudinal slot 4206 to create a frictional retaining engagement with the retainer 7400 when attached to the staple cartridge 4200 and also to retain the sled 4230 with the staple cartridge 4200 in an unfired position.

[0350] In use, the retainer 7400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 in various manners disclosed herein to form the cartridge assembly 7500. The cartridge assembly 7500 can then be inserted into the first jaw or frame 7010 so that the right ramp 7440 of the verification key 7430 engages the actuator cam surface 7324 on the actuator cam arm 7322. During initial proximal insertion of the cartridge assembly 7500, the first right cam surface 7444 biases the actuator cam arm 7322 laterally outward to an intermediate position. Further longitudinal advancement of the cartridge assembly 7500 in a proximal direction into the first jaw or frame 7010 causes the first cam surface 7444 to disengage from the actuator cam surface 7324, and the second right cam surface 7446 to engage the actuator cam surface 7324 to move the first lockout arm 7310 from the intermediate position to a fully disengaged or jaw closed position. When the first latch arm 7310 is in the unlocked or jaw closed position, the retaining tab 7326 is received within the tab window 7024 in the frame sidewall 7020 and is retained therein by the staple cartridge 4200. When in this position, the first latch 7300 is in the unlocked or jaw closed position, or in other words, is "deactivated," unlocked, or unlatched. The user can then remove the retainer 7400 from the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by prying upward along the distal latch tab 7422 and lifting the retainer 7400 upward until the retainer lugs 7410 disengage from the platform protrusion portion 4205. The anvil 7100 can now be moved between the open and closed positions, and the surgical staple cartridge 4200 can be fired in other ways. In at least one embodiment, the surgical stapling device 7002 may include a second lockout 4600 that is configured to prevent the firing member 4050 from advancing distally to complete the staple firing stroke when the spent staple cartridge is positioned in the first jaw or frame 7010 in the various manners discussed above. After the staple cartridge 4200 has been fired, the firing member 4050 retracts to the starting position and the second jaw or anvil 7100 pivots back to the open position. The spent staple cartridge can then be removed from the first jaw or frame 7010. Once the spent staple cartridge 4200 has been removed from the first jaw or frame 7010, the first lockout spring biases the first lockout arm 7310 back into the engaged or jaw locked position, wherein the second jaw or anvil is prevented from moving from the open position to the closed position.

[0351] like Figure 52 As can be seen in FIG, the surgical stapling device 7002 employs a first locking member 7300 that is positioned within the first jaw or frame 7010 on a first side 7005 of a frame axis FA that lies in a common plane with the cartridge axis CA when the staple cartridge is operably positioned therein. Figure 56Shown is a second surgical stapling device 7002' identical to the surgical stapling device 7002, except that the first locking piece 7300' is positioned in the first jaw or frame 7010' on the second or opposite side 7007 of the central frame axis FA. In such cases, when the bin assembly 7500' is placed in the first jaw or frame 7010' of the surgical stapling device 7002', the left ramp 7450 of the verification key 7430 is used to move the first locking arm 7310' from the engagement or locked position to the disengagement or unlocked position. The 45mm surgical stapling device can have the first locking piece on the right side of the bin axis, while the 60mm surgical stapler can have the first locking piece on the left side of the bin axis, and vice versa. Alternatively, a specific dedicated stapling device such as a vascular stapler or a thoracic nail can have a locking piece on a side different from the multipurpose stapler.

[0352] See also Figure 57 , an example of a surgical stapling assembly 8000 is shown. The surgical stapling assembly 8000 can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments or robots described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. The surgical stapling assembly 8000 can be used in conjunction with electrically controlled, battery powered, manually powered, and / or robotically controlled surgical instruments in various forms disclosed in the above-incorporated disclosures. Figure 57 As can be seen in the figure, the surgical stapling assembly 8000 includes a surgical stapling device generally designated 8002 that includes a first jaw or frame 8010 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 4200 therein. The first jaw 8010 is attached to the spine of a shaft assembly of a surgical instrument or robot in various ways as described herein. In the illustrated example, the first jaw 8010 is attached to the spine portion of the shaft assembly ( FIG. 10A ) by a shaft mounting flange 8030 that is pinned or otherwise attached to a proximal end 8014 of the first jaw 8010 by a pin. Figure 57 ). Other methods of attaching and operably interfacing the surgical device 8002 with the shaft of the surgical instrument may also be employed. For example, the suturing device 8002 may be attached to the shaft assembly such that the suturing device (sometimes also referred to as an "end effector") cannot be articulated relative to the shaft assembly.

[0353] Still see Figure 57, the surgical stapling assembly 8000 also includes a firing member assembly 5040, which includes a knife bar 5042 attached to a knife member 5050 or "firing member." The knife bar 5042 also interfaces with corresponding components and a firing system in a surgical instrument or robot to receive a firing motion that can advance the knife bar 5042 and firing member 5050 distally through the staple firing stroke from a starting position to an ending position, and also retract the knife bar 5042 and firing member 5050 proximally to return the firing member 5050 to the starting position. In the illustrated arrangement, the firing member 5050 includes a firing member body 5052 supporting a cutting edge or blade 5053. The firing member 5050 also includes legs 5054 formed on the bottom of the firing member body 5052 and extending laterally from each side of the firing member body. The firing member 5050 also includes a pair of top pins or tabs 5056 extending laterally from the firing member body 5052, which are adapted to engage projections on the anvil, as will be discussed further herein. Additionally, the firing member 5050 includes a pair of center pins or tabs 5058 projecting laterally from each side of the firing member body 5052. In some of the disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the firing member 5050 may also be referred to as an "electron beam" firing member or cutting member.

[0354] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 8002 also includes a second jaw or anvil 8100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 8010. The anvil 8100 includes an anvil body portion 8102 and an anvil mounting portion 8110. The anvil body 8102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 8104, which has a series of staple forming recesses (not shown) formed therein, which are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 8110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion pins 8112, which are configured to be received in corresponding trunnion holes 8022 in the upright sidewalls 8020 of the first jaw or frame 8010. Unlike the anvil 4100 described above, the anvil 8100 is pivotally pinned to the frame 8010 to pivotally travel relative to the frame around a fixed pivot axis. In other words, unlike anvil 4100, anvil 8100 does not substantially move axially or translate during the anvil closing process.

[0355] As discussed above and in several disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 8100 can be moved from an open position to a closed position by an axially movable closing member or end effector closing tube (not shown) in which a spent or exhausted staple cartridge can be removed from the first jaw or frame 8010 or an unfired staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. For example, when the closing member is moved distally from a proximal position, the closing tube can operably engage a cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 8110. Such interaction between the closing member and the anvil mounting portion 8110 causes the anvil mounting portion 8110 and the trunnion pin 8112 to pivot until the closing member moves the anvil 8100 to a fully closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 8100 are correctly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible surgical staple cartridge that has been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 8010. When the axially movable closing member is subsequently moved in the proximal direction, the closing member pivots the anvil 8100 back to the open position.

[0356] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling assembly 8000 also includes a first lockout 8300 that is configured to prevent the firing member 5050 from moving distally from its proximal starting position when an authorized or compatible staple cartridge is not operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 8010. The first lockout 8300 may also be referred to herein as a "verification" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 8300 includes a single dual transverse first spring 8310 supported in the proximal end 8014 of the frame 8010 and attached to the shaft mounting flange 8030. For example, in one arrangement, the first spring 8310 includes a first lockout arm 8312 located on one side of the cartridge axis CA and a second lockout arm 8314 located on the side of the cartridge axis CA opposite the first lockout arm 8312. The first lockout arm 8312 and the second lockout arm 8314 are attached to a central body portion 8316. See Figure 58 . The spring 8310 is mounted in the first jaw or frame 8010 and is attached to the shaft mounting flange 8030 by a pin 8034 that extends through a hole 8036 in the shaft mounting flange 8030 and through a hole 8318 in the first and second lockout arms 8312, 8314. The first and second lockout arms 8312, 8314 each further include a lockout window or opening 8320 therein that is each adapted to receive therein a corresponding center pin 5058 projecting from a first and second side of the firing member 5050 when the firing member 5050 is in its proximal-most or starting position. See Figure 59 and Figure 61 .

[0357] Figures 59-61The first lockout 8300 is shown in a locked position, with the center pin 5058 received within the lockout window 8320 in the first lockout arm 8312 and the second lockout arm 8314. In some arrangements, staple cartridges compatible with the surgical stapling device 8002, or in other words, those with the appropriate number, size, and arrangement of staples, may have one or more unlocking keys formed directly on the cartridge body and / or cartridge tray, configured to disable the first lockout when the compatible cartridge is operably seated in the first jaw or frame. Various cartridges with unlocking keys protruding therefrom are disclosed in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. However, in other cases, a clinician may wish to use a staple cartridge that is originally compatible with a surgical stapling assembly but does not originally have an unlocking key. In such cases, the clinician would be unable to otherwise use the compatible staple cartridge in a surgical stapling device. The surgical stapling assembly 8000 includes features designed to facilitate the use of such compatible staple cartridges that originally lacked an unlocking key feature.

[0358] Now go to Figure 51 and Figure 55 , the suturing assembly 8000 also includes a retainer 4400 that is configured to be removably coupled to the staple cartridge 4200. Specific details regarding the retainer 4400 are discussed above and will not be repeated here. As described above, the retainer 4400 also includes a verification key 4430 that is configured to disable the first lockout 4300 when the retainer 4400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 and the staple cartridge 4200 has been operably seated in the first jaw or frame 8010. Figure 11 , the verification key 4430 projects proximally from the proximal end 4401 of the top portion 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a right ramp feature 4440 and a left ramp feature 4450 separated by a space 4460 sized to receive the firing member body 4052 therebetween. In the illustrated example, the right ramp 4440 is angled downwardly from the top portion 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a proximal right end 4442. The proximal right end 4442 defines a first right cam surface 4444 that angles inwardly at its end and extends distally to a second right cam surface 4446. The second right cam surface 4446 extends from the first right cam surface 4444 to the top portion 4402. See Figure 12 Similarly, the left ramp 4450 angles downward from the top portion 4402 of the retainer 4400 and includes a proximal left end 4452. The proximal left end 4452 angles inward at the end and extends distally to a second left cam surface 4456. The second left cam surface extends from the first left cam surface 4454 to the top portion 4402.

[0359] Now see Figure 61 and Figure 62 In use, the retainer 4400 is removably attached to the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 4500. The cartridge assembly 4500 is then inserted into the first jaw or frame 8010 so that the right end 4442 of the verification key contacts the upstanding unlocking tab 8322 on the first lock arm 8312 and the left end 4452 contacts the upstanding unlocking tab 8324 on the second lock arm 8314. During the initial proximal insertion of the cartridge assembly 4500, the first right cam surface 4444 biases the first lock arm 8312 laterally outward ( Figure 62 5050), and the first left cam surface 4454 biases the second lockout arm 8314 laterally outward (arrow LL). Further longitudinal advancement of the cartridge assembly 4500 in the proximal direction into the first jaw or frame 8010 causes the first lockout arm 8312 to reach a first intermediate position, wherein the first lockout arm 8312 disengages from the corresponding center pin 5058 on the firing member 5050, and also causes the second lockout arm 8314 to reach a second intermediate position, wherein the second lockout arm 8314 disengages from the corresponding center pin 5058 on the firing member 5050. Continued longitudinal insertion of the cartridge assembly 4500 in the proximal direction into the first jaw or frame 8010 causes the second right cam surface 4446 to bias the first lockout arm 8312 further laterally outward, and the second left cam surface 4456 to bias the second lockout arm 8314 further laterally outward, until the cartridge assembly 4500 is fully operably seated in the first jaw or frame 8010. See. Figure 63 .

[0360] When the cartridge assembly 4500 has been operably positioned within the first jaw or frame 5010, the distal first retaining tabs 8326 on the first lockout arm 8312 engage corresponding sides of the staple cartridge 4200 to retain the first lockout arm 8312 in the unlocked position. Figure 62 As can be seen in the figure, a clearance recess 8021R is provided in the side wall 8020 to accommodate the first retaining tab 8326 in this position. Similarly, a distal second retaining tab 8328 formed on the second locking arm 8314 engages the other corresponding side of the staple cartridge 4200 to retain the second locking arm 8314 in this unlocked position. A clearance recess 8021L is provided in the side wall 8020 to accommodate the second retaining tab 8328 in this position. When in this position, the first locking member 8300 is in the unlocked position, or in other words, is "deactivated." The user can then remove the retainer 4400 from the staple cartridge 4200 in the manner described above. When the first locking member 8300 is deactivated or unlocked, the firing member 5050 can be advanced distally from the starting position and into the "ready state."

[0361] After the staple cartridge 4200 has been fired, the firing member 5050 retracts to the starting position and the second jaw or anvil 8100 pivots back to the open position. The spent staple cartridge can then be removed from the first jaw or frame 8010. Once the spent staple cartridge 4200 has been removed from the first jaw or frame 8010, the first and second lockout arms 8312, 8314 spring back into engagement with corresponding center pins 5058 on the firing member 5050 to once again retain the firing member 5050 in the starting position. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, the surgical stapling device 8002 further includes a second lockout member 5600 configured to prevent the firing member 5050 from advancing distally to complete the staple firing stroke when the spent staple cartridge is seated in the first jaw or frame 8010. Details regarding the operation of the second lockout member are provided above and will not be repeated here.

[0362] In addition to the above, at least one form of retainer 4400 can be attached to various staple cartridges that are suitable for use with (compatible with) different forms of surgical stapling devices. In other words, retainer 4400 can be used on staple cartridges that can be placed in different stapling devices to disable the various locking mechanisms of those stapling devices. Staple cartridge 8200 can similarly be used with different stapling devices having different forms of locking members. For example, Figure 64 A surgical stapling system, generally designated 8600, is shown, comprising a first stapling device 4002 and at least a second stapling device 8002. A retainer 4400 can be coupled to a surgical staple cartridge 4200 to form a cartridge assembly 4500 that is compatible with one or both of the surgical stapling devices 4002 and 8002. When the retainer 4400 is attached to a compatible staple cartridge 4200 to form an assembled cartridge arrangement 4500, the assembled cartridge arrangement can be used with either of the devices 4002 and 8002. Similarly, the staple cartridge 4200 can also be used with either of the stapling devices 4002 and 8002. The surgical stapling device 4002 utilizes a translating anvil 4100; the stapling device 8002 utilizes a pivoting anvil 8100. Because the anvils of each device require different amounts of space to move between an open position and a closed position, these devices provide very different amounts of space for the verification key arrangement to operate. Thus, in various applications, the verification ramp feature may need to be quite narrow and employ graduated and vertically displaced camming surfaces in order to actuate the lockout configuration of both types of suturing devices.

[0363] In conjunction with another general aspect, various verification keys and verification ramps disclosed herein can be combined and matched with the retainer body configuration disclosed herein so that a retainer / verification key / ramp configuration can be used together with the nail magazine that can be used in a plurality of suturing devices disclosed herein. Such retainer verification key / ramp configuration can be used to invalidate a plurality of locking systems in those various suturing devices. In other words, a retainer / verification key / verification ramp configuration can be adopted to unlock the jaws on several suturing devices disclosed herein to block the locking piece and / or the firing member locking piece.

[0364] As discussed herein, the verification key arrangement structure can be arranged on a detachable retainer, on a bin tray, on a bin body, on a slide or on another auxiliary attachment component. These verification keys can be made so that they can invalidate the various first locking systems of the surgical suturing devices disclosed herein that employ a translational jaw arrangement structure and the first locking systems of the jaw arrangement structure that can pivot around a fixed pivot axis that employs those surgical suturing devices. When movable jaws or anvils are in a closed position (for those keys that are designed to reside in the device throughout the suturing firing operation) and in an open position, the design of such "universal" verification keys can be limited and determined by the amount of available space in such devices.

[0365] When designing a verification key configuration that can be used to disable a lockout in surgical stapling devices that employ translating jaws and a lockout in surgical stapling devices that employ movable jaws that pivot about a fixed axis, the amount of free space available in each surgical stapling device will necessarily determine the specific shape of a "universal" verification key. Because the jaw shape and travel path are different in these types of surgical stapling devices, the amount of space available for the verification key is different when the jaws are open and closed.

[0366] Figures 64A-64C 4. An example of the amount of space that may be used to accommodate a verification key 4228A of a staple cartridge 4200A is shown, wherein the verification key feature 4228A is formed on a bottom portion of the cartridge pan 4220A, and when the staple cartridge 4200A is positioned in, for example, a surgical stapling device 4002 having the translating anvil 4100 in a closed position. As can be seen in these figures, a "closed" spatial envelope 4800 has vertical legs 4800V and horizontal legs 4800H, wherein, when used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device: for example, a is approximately 0.16 inches, b is approximately 0.14 inches, c is approximately 0.047 inches, d is approximately 0.025 inches, e is approximately 0.04 inches, f is approximately 0.035 inches, and g is approximately 0.05 inches. Figure 64D-64GThe "open" space envelope 4802 for the staple cartridge 4200A is shown when the jaws of the surgical stapling device are open, where: for example, h is approximately 0.14 inches, i is approximately 0.26 inches, j is approximately 0.17 inches, k is approximately 0.04 inches, L is approximately 0.007 inches, and M is approximately 0.03 inches.

[0367] Figures 64H-64J 4. An example of the amount of space that may be used to accommodate a verification key 4228B of another staple cartridge 4200B is shown, wherein the verification key feature 4228B is formed on a bottom portion of the cartridge pan 4220B and when the staple cartridge 4200B is positioned in, for example, a surgical stapling device 4002 having the translating anvil 4100 in a closed position. As can be seen in these figures, a "closed" spatial envelope 4804 has vertical legs 4804V and horizontal legs 4804H, wherein, when used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device: for example, n is approximately 0.16 inches, o is approximately 0.16 inches, p is approximately 0.14 inches, q is approximately 0.025 inches, r is approximately 0.04 inches, s is approximately 0.095 inches, and t is approximately 0.05 inches.

[0368] Figure 64K-64M 4. An example of the amount of space that may be used to accommodate a verification key 4228C of a staple cartridge 4200C is shown, wherein the verification key feature 4228C is formed on a bottom portion of the cartridge pan 4220C and when the staple cartridge 4200C is positioned in, for example, a surgical stapling device 4002 having the translating anvil 4100 in a closed position. As can be seen in these figures, a "closed" spatial envelope 4806 has vertical legs 4806V and horizontal legs 4806H, wherein, when used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device: for example, u is approximately 0.16 inches, v is approximately 0.15 inches, w is approximately 0.037 inches, x is approximately 0.025 inches, y is approximately 0.04 inches, z is approximately 0.095 inches, and aa is approximately 0.06 inches. Figure 64N-Figure 64Q The "open" space envelope 4808 for the staple cartridge 4200C is shown when the jaws of the surgical stapling device are open, where: for example, bb is approximately 0.26 inches, cc is approximately 0.23 inches, dd is approximately 0.12 inches, ee is approximately 0.12 inches, ff is approximately 0.08 inches, and gg is approximately 0.04 inches.

[0369] Figure 64R-Figure 64T10H, wherein the verification key feature 4228D is formed on a bottom portion of the cartridge tray 4220D and when the cartridge 4200D is positioned in a surgical stapling device 8002 having an anvil 8100 movable about a fixed pivot axis between an open position and a closed position. As can be seen in these figures, a "closed" spatial envelope 4810 has vertical legs 4810V and horizontal legs 4810H, wherein, when used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device: for example, hh is approximately 0.16 inches, ii is approximately 0.20 inches, jj is approximately 0.047 inches, kk is approximately 0.025 inches, ll is approximately 0.05 inches, mm is approximately 0.025 inches, and nn is approximately 0.09 inches. Figure 64U-Figure 64X The "open" spatial envelope 4812 for the staple cartridge 4200D is shown when the jaws of the surgical stapling device are open, where: for example, oo is approximately 0.09 inches, pp is approximately 0.08 inches, qq is approximately 0.05 inches, rr is approximately 0.06 inches, ss is approximately 0.10 inches, and tt is approximately 0.03 inches, and uu is approximately 0.09 inches.

[0370] Figure 64Y-Figure 64ZZ 4. An example of the amount of space available for accommodating a verification key 4228E of a staple cartridge 4200E, wherein the verification key feature 4228E is formed on a bottom portion of the cartridge tray 4220E, and when the staple cartridge 4200E is positioned in, for example, a surgical stapling device 8002 having an anvil 8100 movable about a fixed pivot axis between an open position and a closed position is shown. As can be seen in these figures, a "closed" spatial envelope 4814 has vertical legs 4814V and horizontal legs 4814H, wherein, when used in conjunction with a surgical stapling device: for example, vv is approximately 0.16 inches, ww is approximately 0.20 inches, xx is approximately 0.047 inches, yy is approximately 0.025 inches, zz is approximately 0.05 inches, aaa is approximately 0.085 inches, and bbb is approximately 0.09 inches.

[0371] Figures 65-71 Another surgical stapling assembly 9000 is shown that is similar in many respects to the surgical stapling assembly 7000 discussed above. The surgical stapling assembly 9000 includes a surgical stapling device 9002 that can be used in conjunction with the surgical instrument 1010 described above or in conjunction with various other surgical instruments and robots described in the various disclosures incorporated herein by reference. Figure 65As can be seen in FIG, surgical stapling device 9002 includes a first jaw or frame 9010 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 9200 therein. The first jaw or frame 9010 is attached to the spines of the shaft assembly in various ways as described herein. In the illustrated example, the first jaw or frame 9010 is attached to the spines of the shaft assembly (at Figure 65 ). The surgical stapling device 9002 may also be used in conjunction with a shaft assembly that does not facilitate articulation of the surgical stapling device 9002.

[0372] Still see Figure 65 , the surgical stapling device 9002 also includes a firing member assembly 4040, which includes a knife bar (not shown) attached to a knife member 4050 or "firing member". The operation of the firing member 4050 and the knife bar has been discussed in detail above and will not be repeated here. The surgical stapling device 9002 also includes a second jaw or anvil 9100 that can move relative to the first jaw or frame 9010. The anvil 9100 includes an anvil body portion 9102 and an anvil mounting portion 9110. The anvil body 9102 includes a staple forming lower surface or tissue contact surface 9104 having a series of staple forming recesses (not shown) formed therein that are arranged to form corresponding staples when they are driven into contact with corresponding staples. The anvil mounting portion 9110 includes a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnion pins 9112 that are configured to be received in corresponding trunnion holes 9022 in the upright sidewalls 9020 of the first jaw or frame 9010. Unlike the anvil 6100 described above, the anvil 9100 is pivotally pinned to the frame 9010 for pivotal travel relative to the frame about a fixed pivot axis. In other words, unlike the anvil 6100, the anvil 9100 does not substantially move axially or translate during the anvil closing process.

[0373] As discussed above and in several of the disclosures incorporated herein by reference, the anvil 9100 may be closed by an axially movable closing member or end effector closure tube 9600 ( Figure 69) moves from an open position to a closed position in which a spent or expended staple cartridge can be removed from the first jaw or frame 9010 or an unfired staple cartridge can be operably positioned therein. For example, when the closure tube 9600 moves distally from the proximal position, the closure tube 9600 can operably engage a cam surface 9113 on the anvil mounting portion 9110. Such interaction between the closure tube 9600 and the anvil mounting portion 9110 causes the anvil mounting portion 9110 and the anvil trunnion pin 9112 to pivot until the closure member moves the anvil 9100 to the fully closed position. When in the fully closed position, the staple forming pockets in the anvil 9100 are properly aligned with the staples in the corresponding compatible staple cartridge 9200 that have been operably positioned in the first jaw or frame 9010. When the axially movable closure tube 9600 is subsequently moved in a proximal direction, features on the closure tube 9600 interface with the anvil mounting portion 9110 to pivot the anvil 9100 back to the open position.

[0374] In addition to the above, the surgical stapling device 9002 includes a first lockout 9300 that is configured to prevent the second jaw or anvil 9100 from moving from an open position to a closed position via the closure tube 9600. The first lockout 9300 may also be referred to herein as a "proof" lockout. In the illustrated arrangement, the first lockout 9300 includes a first lockout arm 9310 that is pivotally supported in the first jaw or frame 9010 by a lockout pin 9312 attached thereto. Figure 66 In one example, the first lockout arm 9310 is made of stainless steel or the like, and a lockout pin 9312 may be machined into its proximal end. The lockout pin 9312 is pivotally seated in a pivot hole 9013 in the frame 9010 to facilitate pivotal travel of the first lockout arm 9310 between the jaw locked position and the jaw closed position. Figure 68 In the illustrated example, the first lockout arm 9310 is configured to blockingly engage a locking lug portion 9120 projecting downwardly from the anvil mounting portion 9110 when the first lockout arm 9310 is in the locked or jaw locked position. Figure 69 When the first lockout arm 9310 is in the locked or engaged position, pivotal travel of the anvil 9100 is prevented when the locking lug portion 9120 contacts the first lockout arm 9310. It should be understood that the first lockout arm 9310 and the locking lug portion 9120 are each sufficiently strong to resist a substantial amount of closing motion applied to the anvil 9100 to prevent closing of the anvil 9100.

[0375] Now see Figure 66, the first locking spring 9330 is supported in the corresponding side wall 9020 of the first jaw or frame 9010 to apply a lateral biasing force to the first locking arm 9310 to move the first locking arm 9310 in the locking direction LD ( Figure 68 ) is biased to a locked or jaw locked position, wherein the first lockout arm 9310 prevents the anvil 9100 from moving from the open position to the closed position. Figure 66 As can be seen in FIG, the first locking arm 9310 further includes an upstanding cam actuator tab 9322 formed on the distal end 9320 of the first locking arm 9310. Figure 71 , the cam actuator tab 9322 includes an upper actuator cam surface 9324. Additionally, a lower actuator cam member 9326 is formed on the distal end 9320 of the first latch arm 9310.

[0376] In at least one example, stapling assembly 9000 includes a staple cartridge 9200 that is identical to staple cartridge 4200 described above, except that a verification key 9430 is formed into cartridge tray 9220. Figure 72 The verification key 9430 is configured to disable, unlock, or unlatch the first locking member 9300 when the staple cartridge 9200 is operably positioned within the frame 9010. Figure 72 As can be seen in FIG, the verification key 9430 protrudes proximally from the proximal end 9221 of the bin pan 9220 and includes an upper ramp feature 9440 and a lower ramp feature 9450 vertically displaced from the upper ramp feature 9440. The verification key 9430 bends at a generally right angle from a portion 9223 of the bin pan 9220 that extends across a portion of the distal end of the bin body 9202. The upper ramp feature 9440 includes an upper ramp tab 9441 that bends into the verification key 9430, and the lower ramp feature 9450 includes a lower ramp tab 9451 that bends into the verification key 9430. As shown in FIG. Figure 72As can be seen in the figure, both the upper ramp feature 9440 and the lower ramp feature 9450 are located on the same side of the cartridge axis CA defined by the cartridge body 9202. The upper ramp feature 9440 is formed so that it is also located proximal to the lower ramp feature 9450. As described above, the upper ramp feature 9440 and the lower ramp feature 9450 are bent out from the cartridge pan 9220. In other words, the upper ramp feature 9440 and the lower ramp feature 9450 are integrally formed in the cartridge pan 9220. In the illustrated example, the upper ramp feature 9440 includes a first upper cam surface 9442 and a second upper cam surface 9444. The first upper cam surface 9442 is located proximal to the second upper cam surface and is also angled relative to the second upper cam surface 9444. The lower ramp feature 9450 includes a first lower cam surface 9452 and a second lower cam surface 9454. The first lower cam surface 9452 is located proximal to the second lower cam surface 9454 and is also angled relative to the first lower cam surface 9452.

[0377] Figure 73-77 The interaction between the upper ramp feature 9440 and the lower ramp feature 9450 of the verification key 9430 and the upper actuator cam surface 9324 on the cam actuator tab 9322 and the lower actuator cam member 9326 is shown. Figure 73 93. The position of the verification key 9430 relative to the cam actuator tab 9322 is shown when the staple cartridge 9200 is initially inserted longitudinally (direction PD) into the frame 9010. Figure 73 As can be seen in FIG, the first upper cam surface 9442 of the upper ramp feature 9440 is camming into engagement with the upper actuator cam surface 9324 on the cam actuator tab 9322 and begins to laterally bias the cam actuator tab 9322 and the first latch arm 9310. Figure 73 As further seen in the figures, a latch pocket 9021 is provided in an adjacent upstanding side wall 9020 of the frame 9010 to accommodate a cam actuator tab 9322 as the first latch arm 9310 moves from a locked or jaw locked position to an unlocked or jaw closed position.

[0378] Figure 74 The staple cartridge 9200 is shown continuing to be longitudinally inserted into the frame 9010 in a proximal direction. Figure 74 , the staple cartridge 9200 has been inserted to a point where the first upper cam surface 9442 has advanced past the upper actuator cam surface 9324, thereby allowing the distal end 9325 of the cam actuator tab 9322 to engage the second upper cam surface 9444 on the upper ramp feature 9440 of the verification key 9430. This sequential interaction continues to move the cam actuator tab 9322 and the first lockout arm 9310 laterally to an intermediate position between the locked or jaw locked position and the unlocked or jaw closed position.

[0379] Figure 75 The staple cartridge 9200 is shown in its position as it continues to be inserted longitudinally into the frame 9010 in the proximal direction PD. Figure 75 , the distal end 9325 of the cam actuator tab 9322 remains engaged with the second upper cam surface 9444 on the upper ramp feature 9440, and the lower actuator cam member 9326 has now engaged the first lower cam surface 9452 on the lower ramp feature 9450. This sequential interaction causes the cam actuator tab 9322, and therefore the first latch arm 9310, to continue its lateral movement.

[0380] Figure 76 93. The position of the actuator tab 9322 is shown after the staple cartridge 9200 has been operably (fully) seated in the frame 9010. Figure 76 , the lower actuator cam member 9326 remains engaged with the second lower cam surface 9454 on the lower ramp feature 9450 and has moved the cam actuator tab 9322 laterally to seat in the latch pocket 9021 in the upright side wall 9020 of the frame 9010. Figure 76 When the anvil 9100 is in the unlocked or jaw closed position shown, it can be pivoted from the open position to the closed position without being blocked by the first lockout arm 9310. When the first lockout arm 9310 is in the locked or jaw locked position, the lower actuator cam member 9326 is located in front of the firing member body 4052, so that the jaw unlocking process cannot be initiated by advancing the firing member distally. The lower actuator cam member 9326 is positioned above the center pin 4058 of the firing member 4050 to provide sufficient clearance therebetween during the unlocking process. Figure 77 and Figure 78 The position of the first lockout arm 6310 relative to a portion of the anvil 9100 is shown after the anvil 9100 has been pivoted to the closed position.

[0381] The surgical stapling device 9002 may further include a second lockout similar to the second lockout 4600 for preventing the firing member 4050 from advancing to complete the firing stroke when the spent staple cartridge is seated in the first jaw or frame 9010. The second lockout 4600 is described in detail above and will not be repeated here.

[0382] Figure 78AAn alternative cartridge assembly 9500 is shown that can be used in conjunction with the surgical stapling apparatus 9002 in the manner described above. In the illustrated example, the cartridge assembly 9500 includes a staple cartridge 9200' having a retainer 6400' attached thereto. The retainer 6400' is similar to the retainer 6400 described above, except for the shape and configuration of the verification key 6430' and the ramp 6440'. The retainer 6400' can be identical in many respects to the retainer 6400 discussed above.

[0383] Still see Figure 78A , the magazine assembly 9500 includes a nail magazine 9200' that is similar to the nail magazine 4200 described above, except that a second verification ramp 9450' is formed into the magazine pan 9220' attached to the magazine body 9202'. When the retainer 6400" is attached to the nail magazine 9200' as shown, the ramp 6440" includes a "first" ramp that includes a "first" upper cam surface 6442" and a second upper cam surface 6444". The first upper cam surface 6442" is located proximal to the second upper cam surface 6444" and is also angled relative to the second upper cam surface 6444". The second verification ramp 9450' located on the magazine pan 9220' includes a first lower cam surface 9452' and a second lower cam surface 9454'. The second ramp 9450' is positioned below the first ramp 6440" on the retainer 6400" and is positioned distal to the first upper cam surface 6442". When the cartridge assembly 9500 is operably positioned into the frame 9010 of the surgical stapling apparatus 9002, the combination of the first ramp 6440" on the retainer 6400" and the second ramp 9450" on the cartridge pan 9220' operates in the same manner as the upper ramp feature 9440 and the second ramp feature 9450 on the cartridge 9200 to sequentially disable, unlock or unlatch the first lockout 9300 in the manner described in detail above. Once the first lockout arm 9310 has been moved to the unlocked or "jaw closed position," the second ramp 9450' holds the first lockout arm 9310 in that position. The user can then remove the retainer 6400" from the staple cartridge 9200' and the anvil 9100 can pivot from the open position to the closed position.

[0384] Figure 78B-78CAn alternative nail magazine 9200" is shown that is similar to the nail magazine 9200 described above, except that a first verification key 9430" is formed or molded into the magazine body 9202". The first verification key 9430" includes a first ramp 9440" having a first upper cam surface 9442" and a second upper cam surface 9444" formed thereon. The first upper cam surface 9442" is located proximal to the second upper cam surface 9444" and is also angled relative to the second upper cam surface 9444". A second verification ramp 9450" that includes a portion of the magazine pan 9220" includes a first lower cam surface 9452" and a second lower cam surface 9454". The second verification ramp 9450" is located below the first ramp 9440" and is positioned distal to the first upper cam surface 9442". When the cartridge assembly 9200" is operably positioned into the frame 9010 of the surgical stapling device 9002, the combination of the first ramp 9440" and the second ramp 9450" operates in the same manner as the upper ramp feature 9440 and the lower ramp feature 9450 on the cartridge 9200 to disable the first lockout 9300 in the manner described in detail above.

[0385] Figures 79 to 81 One form of retainer 10400 is depicted that is configured to be removably coupled to, for example, a Figure 64. The present invention also provides a staple cartridge 4200 of the type depicted in FIG. In various embodiments, the retainer 10400 includes a top portion 10402 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 such that, when the retainer 10400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 10400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 therein. The retainer 10400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of lateral retention features projecting downwardly from each side of the retainer 10400. In the illustrated example, two lateral retainer lug assemblies 10410 are associated with a generally central portion of the retainer 10400. Each lateral retaining lug assembly 10410 is molded into a corresponding side portion of the retainer 10400 such that a retention arm 10412 extends downwardly below the bottom surface 10403 of the retainer 10400. In the illustrated example, each retention arm 10412 extends from a corresponding side boss portion 10414 that extends above the top surface 10402. This arrangement serves to provide the retainer lug assembly 10410 with sufficient strength while allowing each of the retention arms 10412 to flex slightly outward during attachment and removal of the retainer 10400 to and from the staple cartridge 4200. Each retention arm 10412 corresponds to a recess 10405 in the retainer's bottom surface 10403 and includes a snap feature 10416 molded onto an end thereof. The snap feature 10416 is configured to lockingly engage a corresponding portion of a platform boss portion 4205 formed on the cartridge body 4202 or other portion of the staple cartridge 4200.

[0386] Still see Figures 79 to 81 , the retainer 10400 may include additional lateral retention features in the form of lateral retainer arms 10480 and 10484 extending downwardly from each side of the retainer 10400 and located distally of the lateral retainer tab assembly 10410. Each lateral retainer arm 10480 includes a snap feature 10482 formed on an end thereof. Each lateral retainer arm 10484 includes a tab including an angled end portion 10486 configured to engage a corresponding side of the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 10400 also includes an angled nose portion 10420 and a distal latch tab 10422. The distal latch tab 10422 includes an inwardly extending lip 10424 configured to latchably engage the distal nose 4203 of the cartridge body 4202.

[0387] As in Figure 80 and Figure 81403, the retainer 10400 further includes a proximal keel feature 10470, a central keel feature 10472, and a distal keel feature 10474 that are axially aligned with one another and protrude from the bottom surface 10403 of the retainer body. The proximal keel feature 10470, the central keel feature 10472, and the distal keel feature 10474 are configured to be inserted into the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. The proximal keel feature 10470, the central keel feature 10472, and the distal keel feature 10474 serve to ensure that the retainer is properly aligned on the staple cartridge 4200 to facilitate attachment and detachment of the retainer, and to ensure that the retainer verification key 10430 is properly positioned for engagement with an unlocking feature of a stapling device in which the cartridge and retainer assembly is positioned. The proximal keel feature 10470, the central keel feature 10472, and the distal keel feature 10474 can be sized relative to the longitudinal slot 4206 in the cartridge body 42020 to establish a friction fit therewith. Additionally, the proximal keel feature 10472 can be used to hold the sled in the staple cartridge in an unfired position.

[0388] Likewise, in at least one arrangement, a series of frangible retainer tabs are molded into the bottom surface of the retainer 10400 between the proximal keel 10470 and the central keel 10472 and between the central keel 10472 and the distal keel 10474. More specifically and with reference to Figure 80, four frangible retention tabs are employed between the proximal keel 10470 and the central keel 10472, and four frangible retention tabs are employed between the central keel 10472 and the distal keel 10474. However, other numbers of frangible retention tabs may be employed. In the illustrated example, each series of frangible retention tabs includes two right retention tabs 10490R and two left retention tabs 10490L. Each right retention tab 10490R and each left retention tab 10490L are attached to the bottom surface 10403 of the retainer 10400 by a corresponding frangible joint 10492, which facilitates selective removal of the retention tabs 10490R, 10490L from the retainer 10400. Each right retaining tab 10490R is oriented for insertion into the longitudinal slot 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200 and has a bias angled to the left to frictionally engage the left sidewall of the longitudinal slot 4206. Each left retaining tab 10490L is oriented for insertion into the longitudinal slot 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200 and has a bias angled to the right to frictionally engage the right sidewall of the longitudinal slot 4206. Thus, the right retaining tab 10490R and the left retaining tab 10490L are angled downward in opposite directions. When the right retaining tab 10490R and the left retaining tab 10490L are inserted into the longitudinal slot 4206, they frictionally engage opposing sidewalls of the slot 4206, further securely attaching the retainer 10400 to the staple cartridge 4200.

[0389] As used herein, the term "frangible joint" refers to a joint that is configured to facilitate the detachment of the tab from the body of the retainer. Such a joint may include a reduced cross-sectional area compared to the remaining cross-sectional area of ​​the tab / body portion to which it is attached. In other arrangements, the frangible joint may be made of a material having properties that are different from the properties of the retainer body material. Such properties may cause the user to easily break the joint. In all such cases, once the frangible joint has broken and the tab has detached from the retainer body, the tab cannot be reattached to the body for reuse by the user. This type of frangible joint / attachment feature arrangement can be distinguished from other retainer arrangements that employ removable clamps or other features that can be reattached to the retainer to facilitate its reuse.

[0390] The retainer 10400 can be removably coupled to the surgical staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the inwardly extending lip 10424 on the distal latch tab 10422 with the end of the distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 10400 such that the underside of the retainer top 10402 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the proximal, central, and distal keel features 10470, 10472, 10474, and the frangible retention tabs 10490R, 10490L are aligned with the longitudinal slots 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. Thereafter, the retainer 10400 can be pressed toward the staple cartridge 4200, causing the retainer arms 10412, 10480, 10484 to flex laterally outward and snap into latching engagement with corresponding portions of the staple cartridge body 4202. When the retainer 10400 is pressed downward, the angled frangible retention tabs 10490R, 10490L frictionally engage the sidewalls of the longitudinal slot 4206. The retention tabs 10490R, 10490L and the retainer arms 10412, 10480, 10484 attach the retainer 10400 to the staple cartridge 4200.

[0391] The retainer 10400 can be removed from the staple cartridge 4200 by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tab 10422 and lifting the retainer 10400 upward until the retaining tabs 10490R, 10490L and the retaining arms 10412, 10480, 10484 disengage from the cartridge 4200. In the illustrated example, the term "LIFT" is molded or embossed into the nose portion 10420 to provide a user with removal instructions. In various embodiments, the retainer 10400 can be reused on another staple cartridge after being cleaned and resterilized using conventional cleaning and sterilization methods compatible with the retainer material. The attachment, removal, and resterilization of the retainer may degrade the retainer over time until the retainer 10400 becomes unreliable. At this point, the retainer 10400 can be discarded in exchange for a new one. Following this process, the user may remove one or more of the frangible retention tabs 10490R, 10490L after each use until all of the frangible retention tabs 10490R, 10490L have been removed, at which point the retainer 10400 should be discarded. Figure 81 .

[0392] In the illustrated example, the holder 10400 includes a verification key 10430 that is similar in construction and operation to the verification key 6430. The construction and operation of the verification key 6430 are described in detail above and will not be repeated here. However, in alternative configurations, the holder 10400 can be formed by any of the various verification key / verification ramp arrangements disclosed herein.

[0393] In some cases, some retainers are designed to be easily installed and removed from compatible staple cartridges. Many retainers are typically installed by cartridge manufacturers, who can ensure that the retainer matches a specific staple cartridge that is compatible with a particular suturing device. Once the retainer is removed from the cartridge and the cartridge has been used, the retainer and the spent cartridge can be discarded. However, in some cases, the cartridge and retainer can be "reprocessed" to be reused in another suturing procedure and / or another suturing device. For those reprocessing entities, it is important to install the appropriate surgical staples and the appropriate number of surgical staples into the reprocessing cartridge to make the cartridge compatible with the particular suturing device to ensure the desired results during use. Furthermore, when using a reprocessing retainer, it is important that the retainer be attached to a cartridge that is compatible or compatible with the particular suturing device. For example, if a reprocessing retainer is inadvertently attached to a cartridge that is incompatible with a particular suturing device, and the cartridge assembly is installed in the device to disable various latches therein, the user may subsequently inadvertently fire the device with the inappropriate cartridge installed. Therefore, some retainers disclosed herein are designed to be used once or a limited number of times to reduce the chance of their reuse on an incompatible or inappropriate staple cartridge.

[0394] Figures 82 to 85 One form of retainer 11400 is depicted that is configured to be removably coupled to, for example, a Figure 64. In various embodiments, the retainer 11400 includes a top portion 11402 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 such that, when the retainer 11400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 11400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 11400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of lateral retention features that project downwardly from each side of the retainer 11400. In the illustrated example, three lateral retainer lug assemblies 11410 are associated with the central portion of the retainer 11400. Each lateral retaining lug assembly 11410 is molded into a corresponding side portion of the retainer 11400 such that a retention arm 11412 extends downwardly below the bottom surface 11403 of the retainer 11400. In the illustrated example, each retaining arm 11412 extends from a corresponding side boss portion 11414. Such an arrangement serves to provide the retainer lug assembly 11410 with sufficient strength while providing the ability for each of the retaining arms 11412 to flex slightly outward during attachment and removal of the retainer 11400 to and from the staple cartridge 4200. Each retaining arm 11412 corresponds to a recess in the bottom surface 11403 and has a snap feature 11416 molded onto an end thereof. The snap feature 11416 is configured to lockingly engage a corresponding portion of a protrusion 4205 formed on the cartridge body 4202. The cartridge body 4202 can be formed with an angled surface 4011 to facilitate latching of the snap feature under the protrusion 4205, as shown. Figure 84 The snap feature 11416 can also be configured to engage other portions of the cartridge body 4202 .

[0395] Still see Figure 82 Retainer 11400 further includes a proximal keel feature 11470 and a distal keel feature 11474 that are axially aligned with one another and protrude from the bottom surface 11403 of the retainer body. Proximal keel feature 11470 and distal keel feature 11474 are configured to be inserted into longitudinal slot 4206 in staple cartridge 4200. Proximal keel feature 11470 and distal keel feature 11474 serve to ensure that retainer 11400 is properly aligned on staple cartridge 4200 to facilitate attachment and detachment of retainer 11400 and to ensure that retainer verification key 11430 is properly positioned for engagement with an unlocking feature of a stapling device in which the cartridge assembly is positioned. Proximal keel feature 11470 and distal keel feature 11474 can be sized relative to cartridge slot 4206 to establish a friction fit therewith. The proximal keel feature 11470 can also be configured to retain the sled in the staple cartridge 4200 in an unfired position when the retainer 11400 is coupled to the staple cartridge.

[0396] Likewise, in at least one arrangement, a series of releasable retaining members are molded onto the bottom surface between the proximal keel 11470 and the distal keel 11474. In the illustrated arrangement, two pairs of right and left releasable retaining members are positioned between the proximal keel 11470 and the distal keel 11474. Each pair includes a right releasable retaining member 11480R and a left releasable retaining member 11480L. Each right releasable retaining member 11480R is molded with an angled bias to the left (when viewed from the distal side of the retainer), and each left releasable retaining member 11480L is molded with an angled bias to the right. See Figure 83 Each right releasable retaining member 11480R is molded with a right bottom latch feature 11481R having a "right" angled surface 11482R terminating in a relatively blunt right tip 11483R. A right center lug 11484R is molded relative to each right bottom latch feature 11481R to define a space 11485R therebetween, which is sized to receive a portion of the bin tray 4220 therebetween. Similarly, each left releasable retaining member 11480L is molded with a left bottom latch feature 11481L having a "left" angled surface 11482L terminating in a relatively blunt left tip 11483L. A left center lug 11484L is molded relative to each left bottom latch feature 11481L to define a space 11485L therebetween, which is sized to receive a portion of the bin tray 4220 therebetween.

[0397] like Figure 82 As can also be seen in the figure, retainer 11400 also includes two pairs of retaining tabs oriented between the pair of right and left releasable retaining members. Each pair includes a right retaining tab 11490R and a left retaining tab 11490L. Each right retaining tab 11490R is oriented for insertion into the longitudinal slot 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200 and has a leftward angled bias, enabling the right retaining tab 11490R to frictionally engage the left sidewall of the longitudinal slot 4206. Each left retaining tab 11490L is oriented for insertion into the longitudinal slot 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200 and has a rightward angled bias, enabling the left retaining tab 11490L to frictionally engage the right sidewall of the longitudinal slot 4206. Thus, like the right and left releasable retaining members, the right and left retaining tabs 11490R and 11490L are angled downward in opposite directions. When the right and left retention tabs 11490R, 11490L are inserted into the longitudinal slot 4206 , they frictionally engage opposing sidewalls of the cartridge slot 4206 to further securely attach the retainer 11400 to the staple cartridge 4200 .

[0398] Now see Figures 82 to 84 , the retainer 11400 can be removably coupled to the staple cartridge 4200 by engaging the inwardly extending lip (not shown) associated with the distal latch tab 11422 with the end of the distal nose 4203 and aligning the retainer 11400 such that the underside of the top 11402 faces the cartridge deck surface 4204 and the tips 11483R, 11483L of the right and left releasable retaining members 11480R, 11480L are inserted into the longitudinal slots 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. An installation force “IF” is then applied to the retainer 11400 to press the retainer downwardly onto the staple cartridge 4200. As the retainer 11400 is advanced downwardly onto the cartridge 4200, the right and left releasable retaining members 11480R, 11480L and the right and left retaining tabs 11490R, 11490L slidably engage the opposing walls 4207L, 4207R of the slot 4206. Figure 83 As shown, each of the snap features 11416 includes an angled surface 11417 that is configured to contact the protrusion 4205 on the cartridge 4200 and pivot the snap features 11416 laterally outward into snap engagement with the protrusion 4205. Continuing to advance the retainer 11400 downward causes the tips 11483R, 11483L of the right and left releasable retention members 11480R, 11480L, respectively, to enter and snap into engagement with the slots 4221 in the cartridge pan 4220, such that the cartridge pan 4220 is received in the spaces 11485R, 11485L. When the retainer 11400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, the assembly comprises a "cartridge assembly" 11500.

[0399] Figure 84 and Figure 85 The cartridge assembly 11500 is shown installed into the first jaw or frame 4010 of the suturing device 4002. Figure 83 and Figure 85 As can be seen in FIG, when cartridge assembly 11500 is inserted into frame 4010 and pushed downward therein (arrow IF), angled surface 11417 on snap feature 11416 slidably contacts angled surface 11417 on frame 4010 and biases snap feature 11416 laterally outward ( Figure 844205 on the staple cartridge 4200. Furthermore, the angled surfaces 11482R, 11482L on the right and left releasable retaining members 11480R, 11480L, respectively, contact the edges of the channel slot 4209 in the bottom of the frame 4010, which disengages the right and left releasable retaining members 11480R, 11480L from the cartridge pan 4220. The user can then apply a prying force to the distal latch tab 11422 on the distal end of the retainer 11400 and pry the retainer 11400 out of the cartridge 4200, now seated in the channel 4010. The distal latch tab 11422 extends distally from the angled nose portion 11420 of the retainer 11400. In various arrangements, the right and left releasable retaining members 11480R and 11480L are molded with relatively strong angled biases, which makes it difficult to reinstall the retainer 11400 on another staple cartridge. In the illustrated example, the retainer 11400 includes a verification key 11430 that is configured to disable the lockout of the surgical stapling device 4002. The retainer 11400 can also be configured to be used on other staple cartridges that are compatible with any surgical staple cartridge disclosed herein. In such cases, the retainer 11400 will be provided with a verification key 11430 that is compatible with the lockout of the specific surgical stapling device to be used therewith.

[0400] In various situations, it is desirable for the user to ensure that the staple cartridge employed in a particular surgical stapling device is reliable or compatible with the surgical stapling device. For example, in many cases, those cartridges manufactured by the same manufacturer of the surgical stapling devices are generally compatible with those stapling devices. For example, to provide an indication to the user regarding the identity of the manufacturer of the staple cartridge 4200, a manufacturer's logo 4260 or source indicator marking may be provided on the nose 4203 or other portion of the staple cartridge 4200, for example. Such source indicator markings may be applied to each component of the surgical stapling device and each component of the staple cartridge and retainer. In Figure 86 In the depicted example, the logo 4260 is embossed onto the nose 4203. Figure 87 In the depicted example, the logo 4260 is recessed into a portion of the distal nose 4203. Figure 88 and Figure 89 Another logo or source indicator marking 4262 is shown disposed on the distal portion of the bin platform 4204. Figure 88 In the depicted example, logo 4262 is embossed onto platform 4204. Figure 89 In the depicted example, logo 4262 is recessed into platform 4204. Figure 90 The nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200 is shown without source indicator markings thereon. Figure 91 The nose 4203 ′ of the staple cartridge 4200 is shown provided with a unique shape (which may be associated with the manufacturer or with a particular type of cartridge) and also has a logo / source indicator 4264 provided on the cartridge deck 4204 . Figure 92 Another nose configuration 4203" of the staple cartridge 4200 is shown, which is provided with a unique shape to provide an indication to the user as to the origin of the cartridge.

[0401] In various situations, it is also desirable to ensure that the retainer used in conjunction with the staple cartridge is reliable or compatible with the cartridge and the surgical stapling device. Figure 91 and Figure 92 In the example of , the underside of the nose portion of the compatible retainer may be formed with features that mate or match with the nose configurations 4203', 4203" so that when the retainer is attached to those magazines, an indication is provided to the user as to whether the retainer matches or, in other words, is compatible with those nail magazines. Figure 93 Another example is depicted in which the frame 11010 of the surgical stapling device 11002 has a bottom portion 11262 with a logo or source indicia 11260 printed or embossed thereon. The compatible staple cartridge 11200 has a middle portion 11264 of the logo 11260 printed on one side of the platform protrusion 11205 of the cartridge 11200. The compatible retainer 11400' has a top portion 11266 of the logo 11260 printed or formed thereon. Thus, when Figure 93 As shown, when assembled together, the marking 11262 on the frame 11010, the marking 11264 on the staple cartridge 11200, and the marking 11266 on the retainer 11400' cooperate to form a complete logo 11260 "ETHICON" or other name or logo to provide the user with confirmation that all three components are from the same source and are compatible with each other. Figure 94 The use of staple cartridge 11200' and retainer 11400" is shown, which may be incompatible with each other and with stapling device 11202. Figure 94 As can be seen in the figures, the retainer 11400" and the nail magazine 11200' do not have markings thereon to form a complete logo 11260. The various markings described above can be molded into the (plastic) component, pad printed laser etched, chemically marked, or machined into the component / part. These markings can be recessed or protrude from the surface on which they are located. For example, such markings can be used to increase distance or show length.

[0402] Figure 95 and Figure 96Retainer 12400 is shown, which is similar in many respects to retainer 4400 discussed above. Retainer 12400 includes a verification key assembly 12430 removably coupled to retainer body 12402. Verification key assembly 12430 includes a key body portion 12432 and a key ramp 12440 protruding proximally from key body portion 12432. Verification key assembly 12430 can include any of the verification key / ramp arrangements disclosed herein. In at least one arrangement, verification key assembly 12430 is attached to retainer body 12402 via a frangible joint 12435, enabling a user to detach verification key assembly 12430 from retainer body 12402 after use. Thus, once retainer 12400 has been used in the various manners disclosed herein, it is removed from the staple cartridge, and the user then detaches verification key assembly 12430 from the retainer body, rendering retainer 12400 a "disposable" retainer. In at least one arrangement, a tether 12437 attaches the detached verification key assembly 12430 to the holder body 12402 to prevent loss of the detached verification key assembly 12430. Figure 87 Any of the various retainer body configurations disclosed herein may be equipped with a verification key assembly that is removably coupled to the retainer body via a frangible or otherwise detachable joint, thereby rendering the retainer a "disposable" retainer. Such retainer arrangements may or may not otherwise employ frangible retention members / tabs / arms that are configured to enable the retainer to be attached to a staple cartridge and thereafter removed from the staple cartridge after use.

[0403] Figure 97 Another disposable holder 13400 is shown that is very similar in many respects to the above-described holder 10400. One or more slits 13405 are provided in the bottom surface 13403 of the holder body 13402 in one or more locations along a central cross-section of the holder body 13402. Figure 98 Shown in Figure 97 13402 at the position indicated in FIG. 13402 (retention features have been omitted), for example, showing slit 13405. Slit 13405 extends only partially upwardly into retainer body 13402 so that during installation of the retainer onto a staple cartridge to form a cartridge assembly in the manner disclosed herein, retainer body 13402 maintains a sufficiently rigid cross-sectional configuration to ensure that verification key 13430 is properly oriented to disable the latch of the suturing device in which the cartridge assembly is positioned. However, during removal of retainer 13400 in the various manners disclosed herein, slit 13405 may weaken retainer body 13402 sufficiently such that retainer body 13402 appears Figure 99, or a similar unusable configuration, which prevents the retainer 13400 from being reused on another staple cartridge. Any of the various retainer body configurations disclosed herein can be provided with at least one slit in the manner described above to render the retainer disposable. In addition, any of the verification key arrangements disclosed herein can be employed on the retainer 13400.

[0404] Figures 100 to 104 Another retainer assembly 14400 is shown that can be used in conjunction with the surgical staple cartridge 4200 or other suitable staple cartridge arrangements. Figure 101 As can be seen in FIG, retainer assembly 14400 includes a retainer base 14500 configured to be removably mounted within retainer cap 14600. Retainer base 14500 includes an inner body 14502 comprising two sidewalls 14504 projecting from a retainer nose feature 14503 configured to be inserted over nose 4203 of staple cartridge 4200. Sidewalls 14504 are connected by a proximal bridge 14506 configured to be positioned over the proximal portion of cartridge deck 4204. Additionally, a verification key 14530 extends proximally from the end of proximal bridge 14506. Verification key 14530 may include any of the verification key arrangements disclosed herein, depending on the specific surgical stapling device with which it is to be employed.

[0405] The retainer cap 14600 includes a cap top 14602 and two cap side walls 14604 having a series of cap attachment features or attachment lugs 14606 formed therein to releasably engage the side walls 14504 of the retainer base 14500. A distal latch tab 14608 is formed on the distal end of the retainer cap 14600 to assist in removing the retainer cap 14600. In use, the retainer cap 14600 can be snapped over the retainer base 14500 such that the attachment lugs 14606 lockingly engage the underside of the side walls 14504, as shown in FIG. Figure 100 When the retainer cap 14600 and the retainer base 14500 are coupled together, the assembly may be referred to as a "retainer assembly" 14700. The retainer assembly 14700 is mounted to the staple cartridge 4200 by inserting the retainer nose feature 14503 over the nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200. Figure 100As can be seen in FIG, keel 14610 is formed on the underside of cap top 14602. Keel 14610 is oriented and dimensioned to be received within longitudinal slot 4206 in staple cartridge 4200 when assembled. Keel 14610 can be dimensioned relative to longitudinal slot 4206 to establish frictional engagement therewith. Additionally, keel 14610 can be used to retain the sled in an unfired position when retainer assembly 14700 is attached to staple cartridge 4200.

[0406] When assembled, retainer cap 14600 completely covers staple cartridge 4200 and forms cartridge assembly 14702. Figure 104 In some cases, the cartridge body 4202 of the staple cartridge 4200 is molded in a specific color to identify the cartridge type or size. In at least one arrangement, one or more windows 14505 are provided in the retainer base 14500. The windows 14505 are configured to coincide with mating windows 14612 in the retainer cover 14600 to enable a user to view the staple cartridge body 4202 when the retainer assembly 14700 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 or other compatible staple cartridge.

[0407] Once the retainer assembly 14700 is inserted onto the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 14702, the cartridge assembly 14702 can be inserted into the channel of the surgical stapling device so that contact between the sidewalls of the channel and the attachment lugs 14606 in the cover sidewalls 14604 disengages the cover attachment features or attachment lugs 14606 from the retainer base 14500. Alternatively, the retainer cover 14600 can be removed from the retainer assembly 14700 by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tab 14608 before the cartridge assembly 14702 is installed in the channel of the surgical stapling device. In either case, after the retainer cover 14600 has been disengaged, the cartridge assembly 14702, with the retainer cover 14600 removed, continues to be inserted into the channel in the various manners described herein until the verification key feature 14530 has disabled, unlocked, or unlatched the latch of the surgical stapling device and the cartridge assembly 14702 is seated in the channel. As shown in Figure 101 14, 1502. As can be seen in the diagram, the sidewalls 14504 of the retainer base 14500 do not extend to the bottom of the staple cartridge 4200, such that when the cartridge assembly 14702 is seated in the channel, portions of the staple cartridge sidewalls are exposed to engage portions of the latch arms of the latch. The user can then remove the retainer base 14500 from the staple cartridge 4200 by pulling the retainer base 14500 in a distal direction, leaving the staple cartridge 4200 operably seated in the frame, thereby retaining the latch in either the unlocked or jaw closed position, whichever is the case.

[0408] Figures 105 to 107 Another retainer assembly 15400 is shown that can be used in conjunction with the surgical staple cartridge 4200 or other staple cartridge configurations. Figure 106 As can be seen in the figure, retainer assembly 15400 includes a retainer base 15410, which includes two bottom sidewalls 15412 protruding from a retainer nose feature 15414. The retainer nose feature 15414 is configured to be inserted over the nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200. The bottom sidewalls 15412 are connected by a proximal bridge 15416, which is configured to be positioned on the proximal portion of the staple cartridge deck 4204. In addition, a verification key 15530 extends proximally from the end of the proximal bridge 15416. The verification key 15530 can include any of the verification key arrangements disclosed herein. The retainer base 15410 is configured to be inserted over the nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200. In at least one arrangement, one or more latch lugs 15413 can be formed on each side wall 15412 to engage the protrusion 4205 on the cartridge body 4202 .

[0409] Retainer assembly 15400 also includes a retainer cover 15600 that is removably coupled to retainer base 15410 via a series of frangible attachment joints 15604. In the illustrated arrangement, retainer cover 15600 includes a distal latch tab 15602 and a window 15606. Window 15606 is configured to enable a user to view the cartridge body 4202 when retainer assembly 15400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202. When retainer assembly 15400 is attached to staple cartridge 4200, retainer assembly 15400 covers the entire staple cartridge 4200 and forms cartridge assembly 15700. The cartridge assembly 15700 can then be inserted into the frame of the surgical stapling device such that contact between the proximal end portion 15608 or other portion of the retainer cap 15600 and the sidewall or other portion of the channel causes the frangible attachment joint 15604 to rupture to allow the retainer cap 15600 to be disengaged from the retainer base 15410. Alternatively, once the cartridge assembly 15700 has been seated in the channel of the surgical stapling device, the user can apply a prying motion to the distal latch tab 15602 to cause the frangible attachment joint 15604 to rupture to allow the retainer cap 15600 to be removed from the retainer base 15410. Figure 107In either case, after the retainer cap 15600 has been disengaged, the cartridge / retainer base assembly continues to be inserted into the channel in the various manners described herein until, for example, the verification key feature 15530 has disabled the latch of the surgical stapling device 4002 (or other surgical stapling device) and the cartridge assembly 15700 is seated in the frame 4010. The user can then pull the retainer base 15410 out of the staple cartridge 4200 by pulling it in the distal direction, leaving the staple cartridge 4200 operably seated in the frame 4010, thereby maintaining the latch in the unlocked or jaw closed position, whichever is the case. Such a retainer assembly 15400 may be referred to as a "disposable" retainer.

[0410] Figure 108 Another cartridge assembly 16500 is shown that includes a retainer 16400 attached to a staple cartridge 4200. Figure 108 As can be seen in FIG, the retainer 16400 includes a retainer body 16402 that is configured to extend beyond and cover the cartridge platform 4204. A verification key 16530 is formed on the proximal end of the retainer body 16402. The verification key 16530 may include any of the verification key arrangements disclosed herein, depending on the particular surgical stapling device to be employed. Figure 108 As can be further seen in FIG, a disengagement member 16406 is formed on the distal end 16404 of the retainer body. The distal end 16404 includes a nose attachment portion 16408 that hooks onto the nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200.

[0411] In at least one arrangement, after the manufacturer has loaded the staples into the staple cartridge 4200, the retainer 16400 is positioned in a manner similar to that of FIG. Figure 108 16500 and the retainer 16400 is inserted over the staple cartridge 4200 in the manner shown, and the lower attachment feature 16410 on the nose attachment portion 16408 is temporarily attached to the cartridge nose 4203 to form the cartridge assembly 16500. For example, the lower attachment feature 16410 can be "heat riveted" or plastic welded to the cartridge nose 4203. In another arrangement, the attachment feature 16410 can be temporarily attached to the cartridge nose or cartridge body 4202 by a suitable adhesive that will allow for detachment of the retainer 16400 when desired. In use, when the magazine assembly 16500 has been positioned in the frame 4010 of the surgical stapling device 4002 and the verification key 16530 has disabled the locking member of the surgical stapling device, the user can grasp the disengagement member 16406 and pull the retainer 16400 in the longitudinal distal direction DD, which causes the joint between the attachment feature 16410 and the nose 4203 to be cut or otherwise broken to allow the retainer 16400 to be removed from the staple magazine 4200.

[0412] In various situations where it may be desirable to prevent any of the various retainers disclosed herein from being reprocessed / reused, the various verification keys disclosed herein may also be attached to the respective retainer body portion with a joint arrangement that allows the verification key to be irreparably broken or deformed or repositioned from the first or proper actuation position to a position where the verification key cannot disable the lockout in the surgical stapling device and does not completely disengage the verification key from the remainder of the retainer. For example, Figure 109 A retainer 17400 is shown comprising a retainer body portion 17402 and a verification key 17430 attached to a proximal end 17401 of the retainer body portion 17402 via a reconfigurable hinge or joint arrangement 17480. The retainer body 17402 can be the same as any of the various retainer body portions disclosed herein and can be removably attached to the staple cartridge 4200 via any of the various arrangements disclosed herein. The verification key 17430 can comprise any of the verification key arrangements disclosed herein, depending on the particular surgical stapling device to be employed.

[0413] Figures 110A to 110B A reconfigurable joint or hinge arrangement 17480 is shown that includes a slit 17482 cut into the bottom of the verification key 17430. The slit 17482 is of sufficient depth to weaken the joint arrangement 17480, thereby enabling the verification key 17430 to be reconfigured into a non-usable position after the retainer 17400 has been removed from the staple cartridge 4200 without being fully disengaged from the retainer body 17402.

[0414] Figure 111Another reconfigurable joint arrangement is shown, including a reconfigurable hinge or joint 17480' made of a rapidly degrading polymer material that, after a period of time, enables the authentication key 17430 to be reconfigured into an unusable configuration after initial use. In such an arrangement, the retainer body 17402 can be made of a first polymer material. The reconfigurable joint 17480' can be made of a second polymer material, such as a hydrolytically degradable material, such as polyglycolic acid, which degrades from the first polymer material at the same rate as a fastener. In other arrangements, the second material can include a carboxyphenoxy polyanhydride, which, when exposed to moisture during package opening and use, will begin to degrade rapidly to sufficiently weaken the authentication key joint to prevent reuse. The material properties can be "tuned" based on the desired initial strength and degradation rate. Additionally, if a reprocessing entity or other user attempts to reuse the authentication key, the geometry and amount of the degradable polymer material can be altered to increase the degradation effect of the authentication key (e.g., an increased area of ​​degradable polymer will allow for fracture, but not complete rupture). In an alternative arrangement, the entire retainer may be made of such a second polymeric material.Such material compositions may also be employed in conjunction with the various frangible joint arrangements described in conjunction with the other frangible joint arrangements disclosed herein.

[0415] Figure 112 Authentication key 17430' is shown where portion 17430A of key 17430' is made of an increased concentration of a degradable polymer material. Figure 113 Shown is a cross section through a verification key 17430" made of a degradable polymer material and including hollow truss elements 17431" that help weaken the verification key 17430" during degradation.

[0416] Figure 114 and Figure 115 As shown in diagrammatic form, another retainer 15400 and verification key arrangement 15430 can be reconfigured to an unusable condition after initial use. Figure 114 , the retainer body 15402 and verification key 15430 comprise a composite structure including a weak center retention member 15403 supported on either side by stronger thicker members 15405. The center retention member 15403 is constructed with a tortuous path that allows thin webs 15407 of stronger material to be connected during manufacturing to provide structural integrity to the retainer 15400. Those webs 15407 are of low strength and are connected to features that can hold the retainer 15400 on the staple cartridge during initial use, but thereafter break during removal of the retainer 15400. In this case, for example, closure of the suturing device jaws JA, JB can be used to assist in removing the retainer 15400. See Figure 116Closing the jaws can apply sufficient load / force to the retainer 15400 to break or deform the retainer. The retainer 15400 can also include embedded wires 15409 for attaching the verification key 15430 to the retainer body 15402 so that when the verification key 15430 is disconnected from the retainer body 15402, it will remain attached thereto via the wires 15409. See Figure 115 .

[0417] In other arrangements, any one of the retainer arrangements disclosed herein can be temporarily attached to the unfired nail magazine by a suitable adhesive. For example, the adhesive will attach the retainer to the magazine body, but will break, thereby allowing the retainer to be removed from the magazine body by the user.

[0418] Next go to Figures 117 to 121 , showing retainer 18400. Retainer 18400 is configured to be removably coupled to staple cartridge 18200 or other staple cartridges compatible with specific surgical stapling devices including various types of lockouts disclosed herein that prevent the stapling device from operating unless deactivated, unlocked, or unlatched by a verification key on the retainer or staple cartridge. In one arrangement, for example, retainer 18400 can be used with staple cartridge 18200 that is compatible with surgical stapling device 6002. Staple cartridge 18200 includes a cartridge body 18204 that includes a longitudinal slot 18206 configured to accommodate a firing member of a surgical stapling device. Staple cartridge 18200 also includes a series of staple pockets 18208 formed in cartridge body 18202. Staple pockets 18208 can be formed in offset "lines" located on each side of longitudinal slot 18206. Each staple pocket 18208 can have an associated staple driver (not shown) that supports a surgical staple or fastener (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 18202 is molded from a polymer material into which the staple pockets 18208 are molded or machined. In one arrangement, the staple pockets 18208 are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 18202 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their corresponding staple pockets 18208. Once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their corresponding staple pockets 18208, the cartridge pan 18220 is attached to the cartridge body 18202. In one form, the cartridge pan 18220 is made of a metal material and includes a bottom 18222 that spans the bottom of the cartridge body 18202. The cartridge pan 18220 also includes two upright sidewalls 18224 corresponding to each side of the cartridge body 18202. The cartridge tray 18220 can be removably attached to the cartridge body 18202 by hooks 18226 formed on the side walls 18224 and configured to engage a corresponding portion of the cartridge body 18202 in a hooked manner.

[0419] The retainer 18400 includes a top portion 18403 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on the deck surface 18204 of the cartridge body 18202. Thus, in at least one configuration, when the retainer 18400 is attached to the cartridge body 18202, the retainer 18400 covers all of the staple pockets 18208 in the cartridge body 18202. Thus, when the retainer 18400 is attached to the staple cartridge 18200, the retainer 18400 can prevent the surgical staples stored within the staple pockets 18208 from falling out if the staple cartridge 18200 is inverted or turned upside down prior to use. The retainer body 18402 can include any of the retainer body arrangements disclosed herein, such that the retainer 18400 can be removably attached to the staple cartridge 18200. In one arrangement, the retainer 18400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of retainer tabs 18410 configured to latchably engage outwardly extending platform boss portions 18205 formed on the cartridge body 4202. Figure 121 The retainer 18400 further includes a retainer keel 18470 that protrudes from the bottom surface of the retainer body portion 18402 and is oriented to be received within the longitudinal slot 18206 in the surgical staple cartridge 18200. The retainer keel 18470 can be sized relative to the longitudinal slot 18206 to establish a friction fit therewith. The retainer keel 18470 can also be configured to retain the slider in the cartridge 18200 in an unfired position when the retainer 18400 is attached to the cartridge.

[0420] In the illustrated example, the holder 18400 includes a verification key 18430 movably supported on the holder body 18402 such that the verification key is movable between a first actuated position and a retracted position. The verification key 18430 is L-shaped, with one leg 18440 pivotally pinned to the holder body 18402 and the other leg 18442 including a ramp feature 18446. The verification key 18430 is supported within a key housing 18450 that is molded or otherwise attached to the proximal end 18405 of the holder body 18402. When the verification key 18430 is in the actuated position, the leg 18442 protrudes proximally from the key housing 18450, and when the verification key 18430 is in the retracted position, the verification key 18430 is fully contained within the key housing 18450. In another arrangement, when the verification key 18430 is in the retracted position, at least the leg 18442 is inoperably received within the key housing 18450. Figure 117 and Figure 118 As can be seen, a torsion spring or other biasing member 18452 is mounted within the key housing 18450 to bias the verification key 18430 to a retracted position.

[0421] Figure 119 The original manufacturer is shown initially installing the retainer 18400 onto the staple cartridge 18200. During installation, the verification key 18430 is held in the actuated position while the retainer is removably attached to the staple cartridge 18200. An actuation aperture 18448 is provided through the leg 18442 of the actuation key 18430 and is adapted to receive therein a retainer peg 18209 projecting upwardly from the deck surface 18204. When the manufacturer places a new, unused retainer 18400 onto an unfired cartridge 18200, the retainer peg 18209 is received in the aperture 18448 in the leg 18442 to hold the verification key 18430 in the actuated position. See FIG. Figure 120 When a new retainer 18400 is attached to an unfired staple cartridge 18400, the resulting cartridge assembly 18500 can be positioned in the frame 6010 of the surgical stapling device 6002 in the various manners disclosed herein, causing the legs 18442 of the verification key 18430 to disable, unlock, and unlatch the latch of the surgical stapling device 6002. Once the cartridge assembly 18500 has been positioned in the frame 6010 of the surgical stapling device 6002 and the latch of the surgical stapling device has been disabled, unlocked, and unlatched, the user can then remove the retainer 18400 from the staple cartridge 18200 in the various manners disclosed herein. Such action disengages the legs 18442 from the retaining pegs 18209. When the legs 18442 are removed from the retaining posts 18209, the torsion spring 18452 springs the verification key 18430 into the key housing 18450 to a retracted position in which the verification key 18430 may not be reactivated to the actuated position. Thus, the retainer 18400 is a disposable retainer and cannot be reused on another staple cartridge.

[0422] Figures 122 to 126Another retainer 19400 is shown that is configured to be removably coupled to a staple cartridge 4200 or other staple cartridge compatible with specific surgical stapling devices including the various types of lockouts disclosed herein. Retainer 19400 includes a top portion 19403 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on a deck surface 4204 of the cartridge body 4202. Thus, in at least one configuration, when retainer 19400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, retainer 19400 covers all staple pockets in the cartridge body 4202. Thus, when retainer 19400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, retainer 19400 prevents surgical staples stored within the staple pockets from falling out if the staple cartridge 4200 is inverted or turned upside down prior to use. Retainer body 19402 can include any of the retainer body arrangements disclosed herein, enabling retainer 19400 to be removably attached to the staple cartridge 4200. In one arrangement, the retainer 19400 comprises a retaining tab or feature 19480 configured to removably engage the staple cartridge 4200 .

[0423] In the illustrated example, the retainer 19400 includes a verification key 19430 movably supported on the retainer body 19402 so that the verification key can move between a first actuated position and a retracted position. The verification key 19430 is supported for axial movement within a key housing 19450 that is molded or otherwise attached to the proximal end 19405 of the retainer body 19402. The verification key 19400 slidably extends through the housing wall 19452 and has a protrusion 19431 formed thereon. A retraction spring 19454 is journaled on the verification key 19430 between the housing wall 19452 and the protrusion 19431 to bias the verification key 19430 distally (direction DD) into the retracted position. When the verification key 19400 is in the actuated position, a proximal end 19440 , which may have an action cam surface 19442 thereon, protrudes from the key housing 19450 .

[0424] As in Figure 125 and Figure 126As can be seen in the figure, retainer 19400 also includes a plunger actuator 19500, which is configured to interface with verification key 19430. In the illustrated arrangement, plunger actuator 19500 includes an actuator rod 19502 that extends transversely through key housing 19450 and is axially movable between an installed position and a removed position. Attached to the bottom end of actuator rod 19502 is a plunger pad 19504 configured to engage deck surface 4204 of staple cartridge 4200. As shown, a plunger button 19506 is attached to the top end of actuator rod 19502. Actuator rod 19502 also includes a vertical notch 19508 corresponding to distal end 19435 of verification key 19430. Vertical notch 19508 intersects with a through-hole 19510 extending through actuator rod 19502.

[0425] In use, the retainer 19400 is mounted on the staple cartridge 4200 to form a cartridge assembly 19600 that can be positioned in various types of surgical stapling devices disclosed herein. Figure 123 and Figure 124 19508 and the proximal end portion 19440 protrudes proximally from the key housing 19450. When the verification key 19430 is in this actuated position, the proximal end portion 19440 is positioned to interact with a latch arm of a latch member of a surgical stapling device in which the cartridge assembly 19600 is positioned. Once the cartridge assembly 19600 has been positioned in the frame of the surgical stapling device and the verification key 19430 has deactivated, unlocked, or unlatched the latch member, the user depresses the plunger actuator 19500 toward the staple cartridge 4200. By depressing the plunger actuator 19500, the plunger actuator disengages the retainer 19400 from the staple cartridge 4200 and the distal end 19435 of the verification key is retracted into the vertical slot 19508 until the distal end 19435 enters the through hole 19510 of the actuator rod 19502, which allows the verification key 19430 to move distally to the retracted position. Figure 125 When in the retracted position, the verification key 14430, and more specifically, the proximal end 19440 of the verification key 19430, is unable to disable the lockout feature of the surgical stapling device. In at least one arrangement, the force required to disengage the retainer 19400 from the staple cartridge 4200 is great enough to cause permanent deformation of the actuator rod, which may prevent reuse of the retainer 19400.

[0426] Figures 127 to 129Another retainer 20400 is shown that is configured to be removably coupled to a staple cartridge 4200 or other staple cartridge compatible with specific surgical stapling devices including the various types of lockouts disclosed herein. Retainer 20400 includes a retainer body 20402 that includes a top portion 20403 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on a deck surface 4204 of the cartridge body 4202. Thus, in at least one configuration, when retainer 20400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, retainer 20400 covers all staple pockets in the cartridge body 4202. Thus, when retainer 20400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, if the staple cartridge 4200 is inverted or turned upside down prior to use, retainer 20400 prevents surgical staples stored within the staple pockets from falling out. Retainer body 20402 is removably attachable to staple cartridge 4200. In one arrangement, the retainer 20400 comprises a retention tab or feature 20480 which is configured to removably engage the staple cartridge 4200 in the various manners described herein.

[0427] As discussed above, the surgical staple cartridge 4200 includes a sled or camming member 4230 that is configured to be advanced axially through the cartridge body 4202 during a staple firing stroke. In a "new," "recent," or "unfired" surgical staple cartridge, the sled 4230 is in its most proximal "unfired" position. The sled 4230 includes a central body portion 4231 that coincides with the longitudinal slots 4206 in the cartridge body 4202. The sled 4230 also includes a plurality of wedges or camming members 4232 that are configured to drivingly engage corresponding lines 4202 of staple drivers in the cartridge body. During the staple firing stroke, the firing member of the surgical stapling device abuts the central body portion 4231 of the slide 4230 and pushes the slide 4230 distally to contact the staple driver cam, thereby sequentially driving the staple driver upward toward the anvil as the slide 4230 is driven from its unfired position to its distalmost fully fired position within the magazine body 4202.

[0428] As in Figures 127 to 129 As can be seen in the figure, the retainer 20400 includes a verification key assembly 20430, which includes a first verification key portion 20440 and a second verification key portion 20450 that are axially movable relative to each other. The first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 are slidably supported in a longitudinal recess 20405 formed in the retainer body 20402. The first verification key portion 20440 includes a first verification ramp portion 20444 on its proximal end 20442. Similarly, the second verification key portion 20450 includes a second verification ramp portion 20454 formed on its proximal end 20452.

[0429] When the first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 are axially aligned in the actuated position, the first verification ramp portion 20444 and the second verification ramp portion 20454 cooperate to form a verification key ramp assembly 20700 that is configured to disable the lockout of the associated surgical stapling device in various ways as described herein. In at least one arrangement, the first verification key portion 20440 further includes a first slider engagement feature 20446 that is configured to engage the central body portion 4231 of the slider 4230 when the retainer 20400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 and the slider 4230 is in the unfired position. Similarly, the second verification key portion 20450 further includes a second slider engagement feature 20456 that is configured to engage the central body portion 4231 of the slider 4230 when the retainer 20400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 and the slider 4230 is in the unfired position. In one arrangement, one or more biasing members (not shown) are supported in the retainer body 20402 to bias the first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 out of the actuated position unless the first sled engagement feature 20446 and the second sled engagement feature 20456 are engaged with the central body portion 4231 of an unfired sled 4230 in the staple cartridge 4200 to which the retainer 20400 is attached. In other words, the first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 are not axially aligned, such that the first ramp portion 20444 and the second ramp portion 20454 are also not aligned, and the verification key ramp assembly 20700 is not formed. See Figure 127 Other arrangements do not use biasing members. Figure 127 and Figure 128 , the proof key portion 20440 includes a travel limiter 20448 that is received within a cavity 20409 in the top portion 20403 of the retainer 20400. Similarly, the proof key portion 20450 includes a travel limiter 20458 that is also received within the cavity 20409. Such an arrangement serves to limit the travel of the proof key portions 20440, 20450 to a limited amount of axial travel.

[0430] In use, the retainer 20400 is aligned over an unfired staple cartridge 4200 such that the first sled engagement feature 20446 and the second sled engagement feature 20456 are aligned with the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. Thereafter, the retainer 20400 is pressed onto the staple cartridge 4200 in the manner described herein to form the cartridge assembly 20800. When the retainer 20400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, the first sled engagement feature 20446 and the second sled engagement feature 20456 engage the central body portion 4231 of the unfired sled 4230 and move the first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 into an actuated position. When the cartridge assembly 20800 is positioned in a surgical staple cartridge associated with the retainer 20400, the verification key ramp assembly 20700 disables the lockout of the surgical stapling device in the various manners disclosed herein. Once the retainer 20400 is removed from the nail magazine 4200, the first slide engagement feature 20446 and the second slide engagement feature 20456 disengage the central body portion 4231 of the slide 4230 and the first verification key portion 20440 and the second verification key portion 20450 move to the unaligned position.

[0431] Figure 130 and Figure 131 Another retainer 21400 is shown, comprising a retainer body 21402 configured to be removably coupled to a staple cartridge 4200 or other staple cartridge compatible with a particular surgical stapling device including the various types of lockouts disclosed herein. The retainer body 21402 includes a top portion 21403 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on a deck surface 4204 of the cartridge body 4202 of the staple cartridge 4200. Thus, in at least one configuration, when the retainer 21400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 21400 covers all of the staple pockets in the cartridge body 4202. Thus, when the retainer 21400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200, the retainer 21400 can prevent the surgical staples stored within the staple pockets from falling out if the staple cartridge 4200 is inverted or turned upside down prior to use. Retainer body 21402 can be removably attached to staple cartridge 4200 to form a cartridge assembly that is configured to be positioned in the frame of a surgical stapling device. In one arrangement, retainer 21400 includes a retention tab or feature (not shown) that is configured to removably engage staple cartridge 4200 in various ways as described herein.

[0432] As in Figures 130 to 131As can be seen in the figure, the retainer 21400 includes a verification key assembly 21430 that is movably supported in the retainer body 21402 so that the verification key assembly can move between an actuated position and a deactivated position or a retracted position. In the illustrated arrangement, the verification key assembly 21430 includes a key body 21432 that is slidably supported within the retainer body 21402. The proximal end 21440 protrudes proximally from the retainer body 21402. The proximal end 21440 may include a cam surface 21442 that is configured to interface with an upright cam actuator arm or actuator tab on a locking arm of a locking member of a surgical stapling device in which the cartridge assembly is positioned. As shown in Figure 130 21432 further includes a series of locking teeth 21434 that are configured to lockingly engage the detent teeth 21405 formed in the retainer body 21402. As shown, a removal feature 21436 is formed at the distal end of the key body 21432.

[0433] Before being installed on the staple cartridge 4200, the verification key assembly 21430 is axially moved to an actuated position, wherein the proximal end portion 21440 is in a position that disables, unlocks, or unlatches the latch of the surgical stapling device in which the cartridge assembly is placed. This can be done by the manufacturer who installs the retainer assembly 21400 on the staple cartridge. The retainer assembly 21400 is then pressed onto the staple cartridge or otherwise removably attached to the staple cartridge in various ways disclosed herein. The end user can then place the cartridge assembly into the frame of the surgical stapling device so that the proximal end portion 21440 of the verification key assembly 21430 disables, unlocks, or unlatches the latch of the surgical stapling device in various ways disclosed herein. Thereafter, the user can then remove the retainer assembly 21400 from the staple cartridge by pulling the removal feature 21436 and pulling the retainer assembly 21400 axially in the distal direction. In addition to disengaging the retainer assembly 21400 from the staple cartridge 4200, such action also retracts the verification key assembly 21430 to a retracted position wherein the verification key assembly 21430 cannot disable the lockout member if the retainer 21400 is reattached to another staple cartridge and repositioned into the suturing device.

[0434] In at least one arrangement, the removal feature includes a hole 21438 through which an adjustable nylon cable tie (sometimes referred to as a "zip-tie") can be inserted and thereafter pulled apart. In addition or in an alternative arrangement, the zipper can be threaded between one of the retaining tabs and the cartridge body to enable tension to be applied thereto. Additionally, in at least one example, the manufacturer of the retainer assembly 21400 initially sets the verification key assembly 21430 in an actuated position. A series of locking teeth 21434 and ratchet teeth 21405 are "one-way" teeth and only allow the verification key assembly 21430 to retract in the distal direction to the retracted position. Teeth 21434, 21405 do not allow the verification key assembly 21430 to move proximally from the retracted position to the actuated position. This series of teeth may also be referred to as a "one-way latch." Once the verification key assembly 21430 is in the retracted position, it cannot be used to disable the latch of the surgical stapling device. Thus, retainer assembly 21400 is configured to be used only once.

[0435] Figures 132 to 136 A staple cartridge retainer system, generally designated 22000, is shown. In one form, the system 22000 includes a retainer 22400 similar in design to various other retainers disclosed herein. In one example, the retainer 22400 includes a retainer body 22402 including a top portion 22403 that is coextensive with and configured to be received on a deck surface 4204 of a staple cartridge 4200 such that, when the retainer 22400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202, the retainer 22400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 22400 can be molded from a polymer material and include a plurality of lateral retaining members projecting downwardly from each side of the retainer 22400. In the illustrated example, two lateral retainer lug assemblies 22410 are associated with a generally central portion of the retainer 22400. Each lateral retaining lug assembly 22410 is molded into a corresponding side portion of the retainer 22400, such that the retaining assembly 22412 extends downwardly below the bottom surface 22405 of the retainer 22400. In the illustrated example, each retaining member 22412 extends from a corresponding side boss portion 22414. This arrangement serves to provide the retainer lug assembly 22410 with sufficient strength while allowing each of the retaining arms 22412 to flex slightly outward during attachment and removal of the retainer 22400 to and from the staple cartridge 4200. Each retaining member 22412 includes a snap feature 22416 molded onto an end thereof. Each snap feature 22416 includes an angled surface 22417 configured to lockingly engage a corresponding portion of the protrusion 4205 formed on the cartridge body 4202 of the staple cartridge 4200.

[0436] The retainer 22400 may include additional lateral retention features in the form of lateral retention members 22480 and 22484 extending downwardly from each side of the retainer 22400 and located distally of the lateral retainer lug assembly 22410. Each lateral retention member 22480 includes a latch end 22482 configured to engage a corresponding portion of the staple cartridge 4200. Each lateral retention member 22484 includes an angled end portion 22486 configured to engage a corresponding side of the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 22400 also includes an angled nose portion 22420 and a distal latch tab 22422.

[0437] As in Figure 135 , the retainer 22400 further includes a proximal keel feature 22470 and a distal keel feature 22474. Likewise, in at least one arrangement, a series of center retention tabs are molded onto the bottom surface 22405 of the retainer 22400 between the proximal keel 22740 and the distal keel 22474. The center retention tabs include alternating right retention tabs 22490R and left retention tabs 22490L. Each right retention tab 22490R includes a pair of snap features 22492R that are configured to extend into a slot 4221 in the cartridge tray 4220 that is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 and snap into engagement therewith. See Figure 134 Prior to installation, each right retaining tab 22490R is in a "first state," wherein the leftward angled bias prevents the right retaining tab 22490R from being inserted into the longitudinal slot 4206. Each right retaining tab 22490R must be straightened into a "second state" to enable insertion into the longitudinal slot 4206. Each left retaining tab 22490L includes a pair of snap features 22492L configured to extend through and snap into engagement with the slot 4221 in the cartridge tray 4220. Prior to installation, each left retaining tab 22490L is oriented in a first state, wherein the rightward angled bias prevents the left retaining tab 22490L from being inserted into the longitudinal slot 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200. Thus, when in their respective first states, the right and left retaining tabs 22490R and 22490L are angled downward in opposite directions.

[0438] In the illustrated example, the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L are molded into a first state using a significantly strong angled bias that prevents the right and left retention tabs from being inserted into the longitudinal slots 4206 of the staple cartridge 4200 unless they are fully straightened into a second state during the assembly process. In at least one embodiment, the retainer system 22000 includes a retainer tool 22800 configured to straighten the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L (or move the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L from the first state to the second state) during attachment of the retainer 22400 to the staple cartridge 4200. In one embodiment, the retainer tool 22800 includes an elongated body 22802 comprising a top portion 22810 and two downwardly depending sidewalls 22820. The side walls 22820 are spaced apart from one another to accommodate the staple cartridge deck 4204 therebetween. Figure 134 The top portion 22810 includes a raised center portion 22812 having a tool slot 22814. The raised center portion 22812 coincides with the bottom surface 22405 of the retainer body 22402. The tool slot 22814 includes a wider top portion 22816 sized to receive the ends of the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L therein and a narrower bottom portion 22818 having a width similar to or slightly less than the width of the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. When the retainer tool 22800 is removably supported on the staple cartridge deck 4204, the tool slot 22814 coincides with the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. In one arrangement, a small protrusion feature 22820 is formed on one side of the top portion 22816 of the slot 22814 to accommodate the initial position of the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L during the installation process. Figure 134 .

[0439] Now refer to Figure 132, the retainer 22400 is mounted to the staple cartridge 4200 by initially placing the retainer tool 22800 onto the deck 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 as shown such that the tool slot 22814 is aligned with the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 22400 is then placed onto the retainer tool 22800 such that the bottom surface 22405 is oriented above the raised center portion 22812 and (when in their respective first positions) the ends of the right and left retaining tabs 22490R, 22490L are received in the wide portions 22816 of the tool slot 22814. Thereafter, the retainer 22400 is pressed downwardly onto the tool 22800. As the retainer 22400 is pressed downward, the angled surface 22417 on each retaining member 22412 engages the corresponding tool side wall 22820 and flexes outward, causing the snap feature 22416 to clear the protrusion 4205 on the cartridge body 4202. Each of the right retaining tab 22490R and the left retaining tab 22490L (assuming they are in their respective second states) flexes inward to enter the bottom portion 22818 of the tool slot 22814 and ultimately the longitudinal slot 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. Once the retainer 22400 is in the intermediate installed position, the retainer tool 22800 can be slid longitudinally out from between the retainer 22400 and the staple cartridge 4200 by grasping the proximal end of the retainer tool 22800 and pulling the tool in the proximal longitudinal direction PD. See Figure 136 . Thereafter, the retainer 22400 can continue to be pressed downwardly into the fully seated position on the cartridge. When in the fully seated position, the snap features 22492R, 22492L extend into and snap into engagement with the slots 4221 in the cartridge pan 4220. Each retaining member 22412 engages with a protrusion 4205 on the cartridge body 4202, and each of the transverse retainer arms 22480 and 22484 remains engaged with a corresponding portion of the staple cartridge 4200.

[0440] Once the retainer 22400 has been attached to the staple cartridge 4200 to form the cartridge assembly 22500, the cartridge assembly 22500 can then be inserted into the frame of a surgical stapling device in the various manners disclosed herein. The retainer 22400 also includes a verification key 22430 that is configured to disable a lockout in the surgical stapling device in which the cartridge assembly 22500 is seated. When the cartridge assembly 22500 is seated into the frame, the angled surfaces 22417 on the snap features 22416 of the retaining arms 22412 and the angled surfaces 22483 on each lateral retaining member 22482 contact the sidewalls of the frame, which serve to bias the snap features 22416, 22482 laterally outward out of engagement with the protrusions 4205 on the cartridge body 4202. Similarly, when the snap features 22492R, 22492L on the right and left retention tabs 22490R, 22490L contact corresponding sidewalls of the slot in the surgical stapling device frame, the snap features 22492R, 22492L are biased out of engagement with the cartridge tray 4220. The retainer 22400 can then be removed by applying a prying motion to the distal latch tab 22422 and pulling the retainer 22400 upwardly and out of the staple cartridge 4200. In at least some arrangements, the left and right retention tabs 22490L, 22490R and the retaining arms 22412 are sufficiently rigid that, when the retainer 22400 is not already attached to the cartridge, installing the retainer 22400 on the staple cartridge 4200 may be difficult without the use of the retainer tool 22800. In such instances, the retainer may comprise a disposable retainer.

[0441] Figures 137 to 139 Another staple cartridge retainer system is shown, generally designated 22000', which is similar to system 22000 except for a retainer tool 22800'. In this arrangement, the retainer tool 22800' includes a tool body 22802' having a downwardly extending straightening arm that corresponds to each of the left retaining tab 22490L and the right retaining tab 22490R. In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 22400 includes three right retaining tabs 22490R and two left retaining tabs 22490L. Thus, the retainer tool 22800' includes three right straightening arms 22810R' and two left straightening arms 22810L'. Each of the straightening arms 22810R', 22810L' corresponds to a hole 22407 in the top portion 22403 of the retainer 22400. See Figure 138 .

[0442] To install the retainer 22400 onto the staple cartridge 4200, the straightening arms 22810R', 22810L' are inserted into corresponding apertures 22407 in the top portion 22403 of the retainer 22400 and engage the corresponding left and right retaining tabs 22490L, 22490R. The straightening arms 22810R' engage the corresponding right retaining tabs 22490R and bias them into a relatively straight insertion position, wherein the right retaining tabs can be inserted into the slots 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. Similarly, the straightening arms 22810L' engage the corresponding left retaining tabs 22490L and bias them into a relatively straight insertion position, wherein the left retaining tabs can be inserted into the slots 4206 in the staple cartridge 4200. Once the retainer tool 22800' has been inserted into the retainer 22400, the retainer can then be pressed onto the staple cartridge 4200. Thereafter, the tool 22800 ′ may be removed from the retainer 22400 by pulling the tool 22800 ′ in an upward direction away from the retainer 22400 , thereby allowing the snap features on the left and right retaining tabs 22490L, 22490R to engage the edges of the slots 4221 in the cartridge pan 4220 .

[0443] Figure 140 and Figure 141 A portion of another retainer 23400 is depicted, which may be identical or similar to any retainer disclosed herein, except for the following differences. Specifically, retainer 23400 includes a retainer body 23402, which includes a top portion 23403. A central keel assembly 23470 extends from the underside 23405 of the top portion and is configured to be received within a longitudinal slot in the cartridge body of a staple cartridge. In the illustrated arrangement, keel assembly 23470 includes two axially aligned main keel portions 23472, 23474 and two movable retaining tabs 23476, 23478, which are biased out of plane or axially aligned with the main keel portions 23472, 23474. The main keel portions 23472, 23474 are axially aligned on the retainer axis RA. The movable retaining tabs 23476, 23478 are biased into a first condition in which they are located on opposite sides of the retainer axis RA. Figure 141 To install retainer 23400 onto staple cartridge 4200, keel assembly 23470 is aligned with the slot in the staple cartridge and the two movable retaining tabs 23476, 23478 are biased into a flat plane (second state) with keel assembly 23470 pressed into slot 4206 of staple cartridge 4200. Retainer 23400 also includes a verification key assembly 23430, which may include any of the various verification key arrangements disclosed herein.

[0444] Figures 142 to 147Another disposable retainer 24400 is depicted that can be used in conjunction with a staple cartridge 4200 that is compatible with a surgical stapling device 6002. The surgical stapling device 6002 is described in detail above. In the illustrated example, the retainer 24400 includes a retainer body 24402 that includes a flat top portion 24410. A nose recess 24414 is formed on a distal end 24412 of the top portion 24410. The nose recess 24414 is configured to hook onto the distal nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200. The top portion 24410 is sized relative to the staple cartridge 4200 such that the top portion 24410 is coextensive with and configured to be received on the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 (or other suitable staple cartridge) such that the retainer 24400 covers all of the staple pockets 4208 in the cartridge body 4202 when the retainer 24400 is attached to the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 24400 can be molded from a polymer material and include lateral retaining features 24420 projecting downwardly from each side of the retainer top portion 24410. Each lateral retaining feature 24420 is configured to retain a raised portion 4205 that engages the staple cartridge body 4202. See Figure 144 .

[0445] In the illustrated arrangement, the retainer 24400 further includes a retainer disengagement member 24430 attached to the proximal end 22416 of the top portion 24410 via a living hinge 24432. A verification key 24440 is formed on the retainer disengagement member 24430 and is configured to disable the latch 6300 of the surgical stapling device 6002 or other latches of other surgical stapling devices disclosed herein. The retainer disengagement member 24430 further includes at least one ejector post or one-way tab feature 24434 projecting from the bottom surface of the retainer actuator 24430. In at least one arrangement, the ejector post or one-way tab feature 24434 is formed near each side of the retainer actuator 24430. Each ejector post or one-way tab feature 24434 corresponds to a hole 24418 in the retainer top portion 24410.

[0446] The retainer 22400 can be installed onto the staple cartridge 4200 with the retainer disengagement member 24430 in a first, unactuated position. The retainer 24400 is installed by hooking the nose dimple 24414 onto the nose 4203 of the staple cartridge 4200 and pressing the top portion 24410 downward onto the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 until the lateral retention feature 24420 engages the protrusion 4205 of the cartridge body 4202. The retainer 24400 and the staple cartridge 4200 now form a cartridge assembly 24500. The cartridge assembly 24500 can then be inserted into the frame 6010 of the surgical stapling device 6002 such that the retainer's verification key 24440 engages the actuator cam arm 6322 of the first lockout arm 6310 in the surgical stapling device 6002 to disable the lockout 6300 when the retainer disengagement member 24430 is in the first, unactuated position. Figure 145 The retainer disengagement member 24430 is shown (in solid lines) in a first, unactuated position. Figure 145 As can be seen, the verification key 24440 has engaged the actuator cam arm 6322. Figure 146 Also shown is the verification key 24440 that engages the actuator cam arm 6322 during initial insertion of the cartridge assembly 24500 into the frame 6010 . Figure 147 The cartridge assembly 24500 is shown operably mounted in the frame 6010, wherein the verification key 24440 has pivoted the first lockout arm 6310 to the jaw closed position, thereby disabling the lockout 6300 of the stapling device 6002. Thereafter, the user can press the retainer disengagement member 24430 toward the retainer top portion 24410 to a second actuated position, wherein the one-way tab feature 24434 passes through the aperture 24418 in the retainer top portion 24410. When the one-way tab feature 24434 passes through the aperture 24418, they engage the deck surface 4204 of the staple cartridge 4200 and disengage the lateral retention feature 24420 from the deck protrusion portion 4205. When the retainer disengagement member 24430 is pivoted to the second position or actuated position, the verification key 24440 disengages from the actuator cam arm 6322 of the first locking arm 6310 of the surgical stapling device 6002, but the nail magazine 4200 holds the lockout member 6300 in the inactive or unlocked position. The retainer 24400 can now be removed from the nail magazine 4200 disposed in the frame 6010. In the illustrated arrangement, once the one-way tab features 24434 are pressed through the corresponding holes 24418 in the top portion 24410, these one-way tab features can no longer pass back through the holes 24418, thereby holding the retainer disengagement member 24430 in the second position or actuated position. Because when the retainer disengagement member 24430 is in the second position or actuated position (in Figure 145When the retainer 24400 is in the second or actuated position (shown in dashed lines in FIG), the verification key 24440 cannot disable the locking member of the surgical stapling device. Furthermore, because the retainer disengagement member 24430 is retained in the second or actuated position by the one-way tab feature 24434, the retainer 24400 cannot be reused with another staple cartridge. To further render the retainer 24400 non-reusable, the user can sever the living hinge 24432 after the initial use of the retainer 24400.

[0447] Figure 148 Another retainer 25400 is shown that can be used with the staple cartridge 4200. The retainer 25400 can be similar to any of the various retainers disclosed herein and include a cartridge removal feature 25600 on its distal end. In other words, any of the various retainer arrangements disclosed herein can additionally be formed with a cartridge removal feature 25600. In one example, the cartridge removal feature 25600 includes a pry bar portion 25602 integrally formed on the distal end of the top portion 25403 of the retainer 25400. The pry bar portion 25602 extends distally beyond the angled nose portion 25420 of the retainer to form a nose recess 25610 therebetween. A downwardly extending pry arm 25604 is formed on the distal end of the pry bar portion 25602.

[0448] The retainer 25400 is attached to the staple cartridge 4200 in various ways disclosed herein to form a cartridge assembly. The cartridge assembly is then placed in the frame of the surgical stapling device, such that the verification key 25430 of the retainer 25400 deactivates the locking member of the surgical stapling device in any of the various ways disclosed herein. The retainer 25400 is then detached from the staple cartridge 4200, and the stapling device is used to fire the staples in the staple cartridge 4200. Once the staple cartridge has been fired, the user can use the cartridge removal feature 25600 to remove the spent staple cartridge 4200S from the frame 25010 of the stapling device. As shown in FIG. Figure 148 10. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the nose 4203 of the spent staple cartridge 4200S protrudes distally from the frame 25010. The user manipulates the retainer 25400 to engage the nose 4203 of the spent staple cartridge in the nose recess 25610 and inserts the pry arm 25604 into the distal portion of the longitudinal slot in the spent staple cartridge 4200S. Thereafter, the user applies a removal force RF to the proximal end of the retainer 25400 to apply a prying force to the cartridge nose 4203 and eject the spent staple cartridge 4200S from the frame 25010. Such an arrangement provides an improved mechanical advantage for removing a spent staple cartridge from a surgical stapling device and can be used to remove a spent staple cartridge from any of the surgical stapling devices disclosed herein.

[0449] Figures 149 to 156A deactivator tool 26000 is shown that can be used to disable a lockout of a surgical stapling device. The deactivator 26000 can be configured to be used with any of the various surgical stapling devices disclosed herein to disable a first lockout thereof, whether that first lockout is a lockout that prevents one of the jaws from closing or a lockout that prevents a firing member from moving distally from a starting position within the surgical stapling device. Figures 150 to 156 The deactivator tool 26000 is shown used in conjunction with the surgical device 6002 described in detail above. Details regarding the specific construction and operation of the surgical stapling device 6002 are provided above, and details beyond those necessary to understand the use of the deactivator tool 26000 will not be repeated here. Figure 149 As can be seen in FIG. , in one form, the deactivator tool 26000 includes a tool body 26002 designed to removably engage one of the first and second jaws of a surgical stapling device 6002. In the illustrated example, the tool body 26002 includes a channel 26004 sized to receive one of the jaws therethrough. In the illustrated arrangement, the channel 26004 is sized and shaped to slidably receive the anvil 6100 of the stapling device 6002 therethrough. The tool 2...

Claims

1. A staple cartridge (42200) configured to be used with a surgical stapling device, the surgical stapling device comprising a lockout member for preventing operation of the surgical stapling device, wherein the staple cartridge comprises: A warehouse body (42202), the warehouse body comprising: a proximal end (42204) and a distal end portion; a centrally disposed longitudinal slot (42222) extending from the proximal end portion (42204) to the distal end portion, wherein the longitudinal slot (42222) defines a cartridge axis; and a plurality of longitudinal cam slots (42240, 42242), wherein each of said cam slots extends from said proximal end portion (42204) to said distal end portion, and wherein said staple cartridge further comprises: a slide (42430) movably supported in the cartridge body (42202), wherein the slide is movable within the cartridge body between an unfired position and a fired position, wherein the slide (42430) includes a plurality of cam members (42440), and wherein each of the cam members is slidably received in one of the longitudinal cam slots (42240, 42242); and a verification ramp (42262) extending from the proximal end of the cartridge body, wherein the verification ramp (42262) includes a ramp surface extending from a position corresponding to one of the cam slots (42240, 42242) along a ramp axis transverse to the cartridge axis, and wherein the ramp surface includes a first cam surface (42266) configured to move the locking member of the surgical stapling device in a direction away from the cartridge axis when contacting the locking member of the surgical stapling device when the staple cartridge is initially positioned in the surgical stapling device, wherein the bin body comprises a bin width, wherein the verification ramp (42262) extends a ramp distance from the proximal end of the bin body, and wherein the ramp distance is greater than thirty percent and less than fifty percent of the bin width.

2. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: The ramp surface includes a second cam surface (42272) configured to move the locking member to an unlocked position when in contact with the locking member of the surgical stapling device when the staple cartridge is fully seated in the surgical stapling device.

3. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: The slide (42430) is mounted in the bin body through a slide opening (42223) in the bottom of the bin body.

4. The staple cartridge of claim 3, further comprising a cartridge pan (42250) attached to said cartridge body, wherein said cartridge pan spans a portion of said slide opening.

5. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: Each of the cam slots (42240, 42242) extends from a corresponding cam slot opening in the proximal end of the cartridge body.

6. The staple cartridge according to claim 5, wherein: The proximal end of the cartridge body defines a cartridge plane, and wherein each of the cam members (42440) extends from the cartridge plane when the slide is positioned in the unfired position.

7. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein: The cartridge body defines a deck surface (42205), and wherein the verification ramp (42262) includes a top portion (42280) that is coplanar with the deck surface.

8. The staple cartridge according to claim 7, wherein: The verification ramp (42262) is suspended from the proximal end of the cartridge body.

Images