Including staple cartridges on curved platform surfaces

Abstract

This invention discloses a staple cartridge for use with surgical instruments. The cartridge includes an elongated slot, a platform surface, and a row of staple cavities. Each staple cavity includes a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end is closer to the elongated slot than the proximal end. A firing member is configured to drive a staple actuator from a non-firing position to a firing position. The distal end of a staple cavity is aligned with a first end of a staple actuator, and the proximal end of a staple cavity is aligned with a second end of a staple actuator. When the staple actuator is in the firing position, the first end of the staple actuator extends above the platform surface by a first distance, and the second end of the staple actuator extends above the platform surface by a second distance. The first distance differs from the second distance.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This invention relates to surgical instruments, and in various embodiments, to surgical cutting and suturing instruments and their staple cartridges designed for cutting and suturing tissue. Attached Figure Description

[0002] The features and advantages of the invention, as well as its acquisition methods, will become more apparent and the invention itself will be better understood by referring to the following description of the embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0003] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of the distal end of a surgical suturing instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0004] Figure 2 It is shown as being in a closed or clamping configuration. Figure 1 A perspective view of the distal end of the suture instrument;

[0005] Figure 3 It is shown as being in a joint motion configuration. Figure 1 A perspective view of the distal end of the suture instrument;

[0006] Figure 4 From Figure 1 A perspective view of the staple cartridge removed by the suture instrument;

[0007] Figure 5 This is shown as some parts being removed. Figure 1 A perspective view of the distal end of the suture instrument;

[0008] Figure 6 This is shown as an additional component being removed. Figure 1 A perspective view of the distal end of the suture instrument;

[0009] Figure 7 It includes Figure 1 A perspective view of the drive system of the rapid jaw closure system, high-load jaw clamping system, and nail firing system of the suture instrument;

[0010] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the nail-firing system;

[0011] Figure 9 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of the distal end of the suture instrument;

[0012] Figure 10 yes Figure 7 Exploded view of the rapid jaw closure system and the high-load jaw clamping system;

[0013] Figure 11 It shows Figure 1 The anvil jaws of the suture instrument are in the open position;

[0014] Figure 12 It shows the result of Figure 7 The quick jaw closing system closes Figure 11 Anvil jaws;

[0015] Figure 13 This illustrates applying a high clamping load to the anvil jaws. Figure 7 High-load jaw clamping system;

[0016] Figure 14 This shows the disengagement of the anvil jaws. Figure 7 High-load jaw clamping system;

[0017] Figure 15 A quick-closing jaw system that disengages from the anvil jaws is shown;

[0018] Figure 16 It originates from Figure 14 Detailed view;

[0019] Figure 17 It originates from Figure 15 Detailed view;

[0020] Figure 18 It is a perspective view of a pin cartridge including a drive retaining feature according to at least one embodiment;

[0021] Figure 19 yes Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge;

[0022] Figure 20 yes Figure 18 A partial front view of the side wall of the staple cartridge;

[0023] Figure 21 yes Figure 18 A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge, which also includes the staple driver in the unfired and / or held position;

[0024] Figure 22 When the pin driver is in the unfired and / or held position Figures 18 to 21 A partial cross-sectional view of the interface between the staple cartridge, staple driver, and driver retaining feature.

[0025] Figure 23 It is a partial cross-sectional view of a pin magazine including a window and a pin driver defined therein, according to at least one embodiment;

[0026] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A perspective view of the nail driver;

[0027] Figure 25 It is a perspective view of a pin cartridge including a drive retaining feature according to at least one embodiment;

[0028] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 A cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge includes a staple driver;

[0029] Figure 27 yes Figure 26 A perspective view of one of the nail drivers;

[0030] Figure 28 It is a perspective view of a nail driver including a retaining flange according to at least one embodiment;

[0031] Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view of the top and bottom molds used to form the staple cartridge, which is configured to movably receive within it. Figure 28 Nail driver;

[0032] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A perspective view of the bottom mold;

[0033] Figure 31A It is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge including a firing member that contacts a staple driver when the firing member translates distally during the staple firing stroke;

[0034] Figure 31B It is in the fully firing position. Figure 31A A partial cross-sectional view of the nail driver;

[0035] Figure 32A This occurs after the firing component has shifted distally beyond the nail actuator. Figure 31A A partial sectional view of the firing mechanism and nail driver;

[0036] Figure 32B It is when the firing element contacts the nail actuator as it translates proximally after the nail firing stroke. Figure 31A A partial sectional view of the firing mechanism;

[0037] Figure 33 It is a partial plan view of a nail cartridge including a nail driver and a driver holding member according to at least one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 34 yes Figure 33 A perspective view of a nail driver, wherein an orifice is defined in the nail driver, and wherein the orifice is configured to receive a driver retaining member when the nail driver is in an elevated or held position;

[0039] Figure 35When the nail driver is in the raised position, the driver retains the component and Figure 34 A partial cross-sectional view of the interaction between the orifices of the nail driver;

[0040] Figure 36A It is a partial front view of a staple cartridge including a curved platform surface and protrusions extending from the platform surface, according to at least one embodiment;

[0041] Figure 36B From Figure 36A A partial plan view of the protrusions extending from the surface of the curved platform;

[0042] Figure 37A It is a partial front view of a staple cartridge including a curved platform surface according to at least one embodiment;

[0043] Figure 37B From Figure 37A A partial plan view of the protrusions extending from the surface of the curved platform;

[0044] Figure 38A It is a partial front view of a staple cartridge including a curved platform surface according to at least one embodiment;

[0045] Figure 38B From Figure 38B A partial plan view of the protrusions extending from the surface of the curved platform;

[0046] Figure 39A It is a partial front view of a staple cartridge including a curved platform surface according to at least one embodiment;

[0047] Figure 39B From Figure 39A A partial plan view of the protrusions extending from the surface of the curved platform;

[0048] Figure 40 It is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge disposed in an end effector according to at least one embodiment, wherein the staple cartridge includes a curved platform surface and a protrusion extending from the curved platform surface;

[0049] Figure 41 It is in the unfired position and the fully fired position. Figure 40 A partial cross-sectional view of the nail driver of the nail cartridge, wherein a portion of the nail driver extends above the protrusion and the curved platform surface when the nail driver is in the fully fired position;

[0050] Figure 42 It is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge including three longitudinal staple rows according to at least one embodiment, wherein the nearest side staple row is located in the middle row;

[0051] Figure 43It is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge including three longitudinal staple rows according to at least one embodiment, wherein the nearest side staple row is not located in the middle row;

[0052] Figure 44 It is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including a protrusion extending from the surface of a curved platform, according to at least one embodiment;

[0053] Figure 45 yes Figure 44 A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge, wherein the protrusion extends a first distance from the surface of the curved platform;

[0054] Figure 46 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an end effector in a closed configuration, wherein the end effector includes components disposed in the jaws of the jaws. Figure 45 Staples;

[0055] Figure 47 It is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge including a curved platform surface with free protrusions according to at least one embodiment;

[0056] Figure 48 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an end effector in a closed configuration, wherein the end effector includes components disposed in the jaws of the jaws. Figure 47 Staples;

[0057] Figure 49 It is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge including protrusions extending at various distances from the surface of a curved platform, according to at least one embodiment;

[0058] Figure 50 This is a partial cross-sectional view of an end effector in a closed configuration, wherein the end effector includes components disposed in the jaws of the jaws. Figure 49 Staples;

[0059] Figure 51 It is a partial cross-sectional view of an end effector in a closed configuration according to at least one embodiment, wherein the end effector includes a staple cartridge that includes protrusions extending at different distances from the surface of a curved platform;

[0060] Figure 52 It is a partial cross-sectional view of an end effector in a closed configuration according to at least one embodiment, wherein the end effector includes a staple cartridge that includes protrusions extending a uniform distance from the surface of a curved platform;

[0061] Figure 53 It is a partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge including a variable protrusion extending from the surface of a curved platform, according to at least one embodiment;

[0062] Figure 54 It comes from the limitation of Figure 53A partial cross-sectional view of the first longitudinal row of staples on the curved platform surface of the staple cartridge, wherein the first longitudinal row extends alongside an elongated slot;

[0063] Figure 55 It comes from the limitation of Figure 53 and Figure 54 A partial cross-sectional view of the second longitudinal row of staple chambers on the curved platform surface of the staple cartridge, wherein the second longitudinal row extends alongside the first longitudinal row;

[0064] Figure 56 It comes from the limitation of Figures 53 to 55 A partial cross-sectional view of the nail chamber of the third longitudinal row on the curved platform surface of the nail cartridge, wherein the third longitudinal row extends alongside the second longitudinal row.

[0065] Figure 57 It is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge and anvil according to at least one embodiment;

[0066] Figure 58 This shows the staple cartridge in its uninstalled configuration. Figure 57 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0067] Figure 59 This shows the staple cartridge in its mounting configuration. Figure 57 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0068] Figure 60 This shows the anvil in a clamping configuration. Figure 57 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0069] Figure 61 It is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge and anvil according to at least one embodiment;

[0070] Figure 62 This shows the staple cartridge in its uninstalled configuration. Figure 61 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0071] Figure 63 This shows the anvil in a clamping configuration. Figure 61 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0072] Figure 64 This shows an anvil in an over-clamping configuration. Figure 61 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0073] Figure 65 It is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge and anvil according to at least one embodiment;

[0074] Figure 66 This shows the staple cartridge in its uninstalled configuration. Figure 65A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0075] Figure 67 This shows a staple cartridge in a partially installed configuration. Figure 65 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0076] Figure 68 This shows the staple cartridge in its fully installed configuration. Figure 65 A partial sectional view of the staple cartridge and anvil;

[0077] Figure 69 It is a plan view of the anvil according to at least one embodiment;

[0078] Figure 70 yes Figure 69 Detailed diagram of the anvil;

[0079] Figure 71 It is a partial plan view of the pinning cartridge according to at least one implementation scheme;

[0080] Figure 72 yes Figure 71 A perspective view of the staple cartridge;

[0081] Figure 73 This is a partial front view of the end actuator of a suture instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0082] Figure 74 It is shown as being in a clamping configuration. Figure 73 A partial front view of the end effector;

[0083] Figure 75 This is a partial front view of the end actuator of a suture instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0084] Figure 76 It is shown as being in a clamping configuration. Figure 75 A partial front view of the end effector;

[0085] Figure 77 This is a partial front view of the end actuator of a suture instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0086] Figure 78 It is shown as being in a partially clamped configuration. Figure 77 A partial front view of the end effector;

[0087] Figure 79 It is shown to be in an over-clamped configuration. Figure 77 A partial front view of the end effector;

[0088] Figure 80 yes Figure 77 An exploded view of the end actuator of a suture instrument;

[0089] Figure 81 It is a partial front view of the end effector of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0090] Figure 82 yes Figure 81 Another partial front view of the end effector;

[0091] Figure 83 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical instrument, according to at least one embodiment, showing the end effector in a partially closed configuration;

[0092] Figure 84 It is shown to be in a closed configuration. Figure 83 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0093] Figure 85 It is shown to be in a partially open configuration. Figure 83 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0094] Figure 86 It is shown in a fully open configuration. Figure 83 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0095] Figure 87 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0096] Figure 88 It is a front view of the firing assembly including the firing mechanism;

[0097] Figure 89 yes Figure 88 A front view of the firing component of the end effector;

[0098] Figure 90 yes Figure 88 Another front view of the firing mechanism;

[0099] Figure 91 It is a perspective view of the firing assembly of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0100] Figure 92 yes Figure 91 Another perspective view of the firing assembly;

[0101] Figure 93 This shows a tissue cutting blade in a deployment configuration of the firing assembly. Figure 91 A cross-sectional front view of the firing assembly;

[0102] Figure 94 It is in an undeployed configuration Figure 91 A cross-sectional front view of the firing assembly;

[0103] Figure 95 It includes Figure 91 A partial front view of the bolt cartridge of the firing assembly;

[0104] Figure 96 yes Figure 95 A partial perspective view of the staple cartridge;

[0105] Figure 97 It is a partially exploded view of the firing assembly of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0106] Figure 98 yes Figure 97 A partial front view of the firing assembly and the bolt cartridge, showing the firing assembly in the unfired position;

[0107] Figure 99 yes Figure 97 The firing assembly and Figure 98 A partial front view of the stud cartridge, showing the firing assembly in the partial firing position;

[0108] Figure 100 yes Figure 97 The firing assembly and Figure 98 A partial front view of the stud cartridge, showing the firing assembly in the firing position;

[0109] Figure 101 yes Figure 97 The firing assembly and Figure 98 A partial front view of the stud cartridge, showing the firing assembly at the end of the stud firing stroke;

[0110] Figure 102 yes Figure 97 The firing assembly and Figure 98 A partial front view of the stud cartridge, showing the retraction of the firing assembly after the stud firing stroke;

[0111] Figure 103 yes Figure 97 The firing assembly and Figure 98 A partial front view of the stud cartridge, showing the firing assembly in the retracted position;

[0112] Figure 104 A nail firing system and a nail cartridge according to at least one embodiment are shown;

[0113] Figure 105 It shows propulsion to the distal side during the nail firing stroke. Figure 104 The firing component of the nail-firing system;

[0114] Figure 106 This illustrates rotating the tissue cutting blade of the nail-firing system from its undeployed position to its deployed position. Figure 105The firing mechanism;

[0115] Figure 107 Showing the fully deployed position Figure 106 Tissue cutting knife;

[0116] Figure 108 It shows propulsion to the distal side during the nail firing stroke. Figure 104 The nail firing system;

[0117] Figure 109 This shows the retraction after the pin firing stroke. Figure 105 The firing mechanism;

[0118] Figure 110 It shows when the firing mechanism retracts Figure 106 tissue cutting blade through Figure 105 The firing mechanism rotates toward its undeployed position;

[0119] Figure 111 It shows Figure 106 The blade of the tissue cutting knife retracts below the platform of the staple cartridge;

[0120] Figure 112 It shows the relationship with Figure 106 The tissue cutting blade disengaged from the joint. Figure 105 The firing mechanism;

[0121] Figure 113 yes Figure 104 An exploded view of the nail firing system and nail magazine;

[0122] Figure 114 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0123] Figure 115 It is shown to be in a closed configuration. Figure 114 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0124] Figure 116 It is shown to be in a partially fired configuration. Figure 114 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0125] Figure 117 It is shown in the firing configuration. Figure 114 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0126] Figure 118 yes Figure 114 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector, showing the firing system of a surgical instrument in retraction mode;

[0127] Figure 119 yes Figure 114A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows a portion of the firing system disengaging from a portion of the retracted nail firing system;

[0128] Figure 120 yes Figure 114 A partial sectional view of the end effector, showing the end effector after it has been reopened;

[0129] Figure 121 This is a partial exploded view of an end effector with some components removed, according to at least one embodiment;

[0130] Figure 122 It is a partial cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical instrument including a staple cartridge in an unused state, according to at least one embodiment;

[0131] Figure 123 yes Figure 122 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows the nail firing system of a surgical instrument in a pre-firing stroke configuration, wherein the firing rod of the nail firing system engages with the slider / blade component of the nail firing system;

[0132] Figure 124 It is in a local firing configuration. Figure 122 A partial sectional view of the end effector, in which the nail firing system advances only beyond the exhausted chamber locking element of the suture instrument;

[0133] Figure 125 yes Figure 122 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows the retracting nail firing system;

[0134] Figure 126 yes Figure 122 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows the firing rod of the nail firing system disengaging from the sliding member via the exhausted chamber locking member during the retraction of the nail firing system.

[0135] Figure 127 yes Figure 122 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows the firing lever of the nail firing system in the fully retracted position, with the nail cartridge depleted.

[0136] Figure 128 yes Figure 122 A partial cross-sectional view of the end effector shows the firing lever of the nail firing system being blocked by the depleted cartridge locking element because the depleted cartridge has not yet been replaced with an inexhaustible cartridge;

[0137] Figure 129 It is a partial perspective view of the nail cartridge, including the nail firing driver;

[0138] Figure 130 yes Figure 129A partial plan view of the staple cartridge;

[0139] Figure 131 It is in an unfired state. Figure 129 A partial perspective view of the nail-firing driver;

[0140] Figure 132 It is in a state of partial firing. Figure 129 A partial perspective view of the nail-firing driver;

[0141] Figure 133 It is in a state of retraction. Figure 129 A partial perspective view of the nail-firing driver;

[0142] Figure 134 It is a partial perspective view of the end effector of a surgical instrument, showing the jaws of the end effector in the open position, according to at least one embodiment;

[0143] Figure 135 yes Figure 134 A partial front view of the end effector shows the jaw closing latch and the nail firing latch in a locked state due to the absence of an unfired nail cartridge housed in the end effector.

[0144] Figure 136 This is a perspective view of the locking components, which include... Figure 135 Jaw closing locking mechanism and nail firing locking mechanism;

[0145] Figure 137 yes Figure 134 A partial front view of the end effector shows the jaw closing locking element in the unlocked state due to the presence of an unfired pin cartridge housed in the end effector, and the pin firing locking element in the unlocked state.

[0146] Figure 138 yes Figure 134 A partial front view of the end effector, showing it in a partially fired state. Figure 137 Staples;

[0147] Figure 139 It is a partially exploded view of a pin cartridge including the cartridge body and the sliding element according to at least one embodiment;

[0148] Figure 140 yes Figure 139 A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge, showing the slider in the near-unfired position;

[0149] Figure 141 yes Figure 139 A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge shows a slider that advances distally during the staple firing stroke and activates the depleted cartridge locking mechanism in the staple cartridge;

[0150] Figure 142 yes Figure 139 A partial cross-sectional view of the pin cartridge shows the slider advancing distally during the pin firing stroke and the depleted cartridge locking element in the activated state.

[0151] Figure 143 yes Figure 139 A partial cross-sectional view of the pin magazine shows the slide retracting after the pin firing stroke and the depleted magazine lock in an activated state to prevent the slide from returning to its proximal unfired position.

[0152] Figure 144 It is a partial front view of the end actuator of a surgical instrument including an anvil jaw and a staple cartridge jaw, shown in at least one embodiment in an open configuration;

[0153] Figure 144A yes Figure 144 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0154] Figure 145 It shows a closed configuration. Figure 144 End effector;

[0155] Figure 145A It is shown as Figure 145 The closed configuration Figure 144 Detailed view of the end effector;

[0156] Figure 146 It is shown as Figure 145 The closed configuration Figure 144 A partial sectional view of the end effector;

[0157] Figure 147 This is shown with the anvil jaws in the open position relative to the staple cartridge jaws. Figure 144 A front view of the end effector;

[0158] Figure 148 This is shown with the anvil jaws parallel to the staple cartridge jaws. Figure 144 A front view of the end effector;

[0159] Figure 149 This is shown as the anvil jaws being in an over-clamping position relative to the staple cartridge jaws. Figure 144 A front view of the end effector;

[0160] Figure 149A Is in Figure 149 configuration Figure 144 Detailed view of the end effector;

[0161] Figure 149B This is shown as a configuration for reopening. Figure 144Detailed view of the end effector;

[0162] Figure 150 It is shown by Figure 144 A graph showing the displacement and load experienced by the end effector clamping system and the nail firing system of a surgical instrument;

[0163] Figure 151 This is a front view of an end effector according to at least one embodiment;

[0164] Figure 152 yes Figure 151 The end effector is clamped onto the patient tissue T in a frontal view;

[0165] Figure 153 It is shown by Figure 151 A graph showing the displacement and load experienced by the end effector clamping system and the nail firing system of a surgical instrument; Figure 154 It is a perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0166] Figure 155 It is shown as being in a joint motion configuration. Figure 154 A perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument;

[0167] Figure 156 yes Figure 154 A partial perspective view of the joint joint of a surgical instrument, which is shown in an articulated configuration, wherein a portion of the joint joint is hidden for illustrative purposes.

[0168] Figure 157 It is a perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0169] Figure 158 It is a partial perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0170] Figure 159 It is a perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0171] Figure 160 It shows the firing mechanism of a surgical instrument. Figure 159 Side view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument;

[0172] Figure 161 yes Figure 159 A perspective view of a portion of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument, showing the distal joint motion locking element;

[0173] Figure 162It is a plan view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0174] Figure 163 It is a perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment;

[0175] Figure 164 yes Figure 163 A perspective view of the joint joint of a surgical instrument; for clarity, parts of the joint joint are shown to be hidden.

[0176] Figure 165 yes Figure 164 A perspective view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument, showing the joint motion joint in a joint motion configuration;

[0177] Figure 166 yes Figure 163 A perspective view of the joint joint of a surgical instrument; for clarity, parts of the joint joint are hidden; and

[0178] Figure 167 yes Figure 163 A plan view of the joint motion joint of a surgical instrument.

[0179] In several views, corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts. The examples described herein illustrate certain embodiments of the invention in one form, and such examples should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0180] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on the same date as this application, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0181] - The agent's case file number END9199USNP1 / 190434-1M, titled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT";

[0182] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A SEATING CAM" is END9203USNP1 / 190438-1;

[0183] - The agent's case file number for the title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A RAPID CLOSURE MECHANISM" is END9204USNP1 / 190443-1;

[0184] - The agent's case file number END9204USNP2 / 190443-2, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSURE SYSTEM INCLUDING ACLOSURE MEMBER AND AN OPENING MEMBER DRIVEN BY A DRIVE SCREW";

[0185] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A NESTED FIRING MEMBER" is END9204USNP3 / 190443-3;

[0186] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A DEPLOYABLE KNIFE" is END9204USNP4 / 190443-4;

[0187] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A DETACHABLE TISSUE CUTTINGKNIFE" is END9204USNP5 / 190443-5;

[0188] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CLAMP LOCKOUT AND A FIRING LOCKOUT" is END9205USNP1 / 190448-1;

[0189] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A LATCH LOCKOUT" is END9205USNP2 / 190448-2;

[0190] - The agent's case file number for the title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A POWERED ARTICULATION SYSTEM" is END9200USNP1 / 190435-1;

[0191] - The agent's case file number, END9201USNP1 / 190436-1, is named "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENT".

[0192] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INDEPENDENT JAW CLOSING AND STAPLE FIRING SYSTEMS" is END9202USNP1 / 190437-1;

[0193] - The case file number for the agent named "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DRIVER RETENTION MEMBERS" is END9203USNP2 / 190438-2;

[0194] - The case file number END9203USNP3 / 190438-3 for the agent named "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DRIVER RETENTION MEMBERS"; and

[0195] - The agent's case file number for the case titled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING PROJECTIONS EXTENDING FROM ACURVED DECK SURFACE" is END9203USNP4 / 190438-4;

[0196] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on March 25, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0197] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 363,070 entitled "FIRING DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL SYSTEMS";

[0198] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 363,051 entitled "FIRING DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL SYSTEMS";

[0199] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 363,045 entitled "ARTICULATION DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL SYSTEMS"; and

[0200] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 363,062 entitled “FIRING DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL SYSTEMS”.

[0201] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 30, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0202] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,104 entitled “METHOD FOR AUTHENTICATING THE COMPATIBILITY OF A STAPLECARTRIDGE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0203] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,108 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN RFID SYSTEM";

[0204] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,111 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN RFID SYSTEM FOR TRACKING AMOVABLE COMPONENT”;

[0205] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,114 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ALIGNED RFID SENSOR";

[0206] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,105 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING AN INFORMATION DECRYPTIONPROTOCOL”;

[0207] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,110 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING AN INFORMATION ENCRYPTIONPROTOCOL”;

[0208] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,120 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING A LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR ANINCOMPATIBLE CARTRIDGE";

[0209] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,125 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM HAVING A FRANGIBLE RFID TAG"; and

[0210] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,103 entitled “PACKAGING FOR A REPLACEABLE COMPONENT OF A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM”.

[0211] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 30, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0212] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,107 entitled “METHOD OF USING MULTIPLE RFID CHIPS WITH A SURGICAL ASSEMBLY”;

[0213] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,109 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR PROPER ANVIL ATTACHMENT SURGICAL STAPLING HEADASSEMBLY”;

[0214] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,119 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR MOTOR CONTROL ADJUSTMENTS OF A MOTORIZEDSURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0215] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,115 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH BATTERY COMPATIBILITY VERIFICATION FUNCTIONALITY";

[0216] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,117 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM WITH RFID TAGS FOR UPDATING MOTOR ASSEMBLYPARAMETERS";

[0217] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,121 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE RFID TAGS";

[0218] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,122 entitled "RFID IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0219] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,106 entitled "RFID IDENTIFICATION SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0220] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 458,112 entitled "SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR DISPLAY AND COMMUNICATION";

[0221] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,116 entitled "SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR COMPATIBILITY DETECTION"; and

[0222] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,118 entitled "SURGICAL RFID ASSEMBLIES FOR INSTRUMENT OPERATIONAL SETTING CONTROL".

[0223] The applicant of this patent application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on December 4, 2018, the disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0224] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,385 entitled “METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, STORAGE AND DISPLAY”;

[0225] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 209,395 entitled “METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION”;

[0226] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 209,403 entitled “METHOD OF CLOUD BASED DATA ANALYTICS FOR USE WITH THE HUB”;

[0227] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,407 entitled “METHOD OF ROBOTIC HUB COMMUNICATION, DETECTION, AND CONTROL”;

[0228] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,416 entitled “METHOD OF HUB COMMUNICATION, PROCESSING, DISPLAY, AND CLOUDANALYTICS”;

[0229] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,423 entitled “METHOD OF COMPRESSING TISSUE WITHIN A STAPLING DEVICE AND SIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING THE LOCATION OF THE TISSUE WITHIN THE JAWS”;

[0230] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,427 entitled “METHOD OF USING REINFORCED FLEXIBLE CIRCUITS WITH MULTIPLESENSORS TO OPTIMIZE PERFORMANCE OF RADIO FREQUENCY DEVICES”;

[0231] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,433 entitled “METHOD OF SENSING PARTICULATE FROM SMOKE EVACUATED FROM APATIENT, ADJUSTING THE PUMP SPEED BASED ON THE SENSED INFORMATION, AND COMMUNICATING THE FUNCTIONAL PARAMETERS OF THE SYSTEM TO THE HUB”;

[0232] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 209,447 entitled “METHOD FOR SMOKE EVACUATION FOR SURGICAL HUB”;

[0233] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 209,453 entitled “METHOD FOR CONTROLLING SMART ENERGY DEVICES”;

[0234] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 209,458 entitled “METHOD FOR SMART ENERGY DEVICE INFRASTRUCTURE”;

[0235] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,465 entitled “METHOD FOR ADAPTIVE CONTROL SCHEMES FOR SURGICAL NETWORKCONTROL AND INTERACTION”;

[0236] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,478 entitled “METHOD FOR SITUATIONAL AWARENESS FOR SURGICAL NETWORK ORSURGICAL NETWORK CONNECTED DEVICE CAPABLE OF ADJUSTING FUNCTION BASED ON ASENSED SITUATION OR USAGE”;

[0237] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,490 entitled "METHOD FOR FACILITY DATA COLLECTION AND INTERPRETATION"; and

[0238] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,491 entitled “METHOD FOR CIRCULAR STAPLER CONTROL ALGORITHM ADJUSTMENTBASED ON SITUATIONAL AWARENESS”.

[0239] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 26, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0240] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,273 entitled “METHOD FOR PROVIDING AN AUTHENTICATION LOCKOUT IN A SURGICALSTAPLER WITH A REPLACEABLE CARTRIDGE”;

[0241] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,283 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY WITH CARTRIDGE BASED RETAINER CONFIGURED TO UNLOCK A FIRING LOCKOUT”;

[0242] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,289 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY WITH CARTRIDGE BASED RETAINER CONFIGURED TO UNLOCK A CLOSURE LOCKOUT”;

[0243] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,302 entitled “UNIVERSAL CARTRIDGE BASED KEY FEATURE THAT UNLOCKS MULTIPLELOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS IN DIFFERENT SURGICAL STAPLERS”;

[0244] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,310 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINERS WITH FRANGIBLE RETENTION FEATURES AND METHODS OF USING SAME”;

[0245] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 453,330 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH FRANGIBLE AUTHENTICATION KEY";

[0246] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 453,335 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH RETRACTABLE AUTHENTICATIONKEY”;

[0247] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,343 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER SYSTEM WITH AUTHENTICATION KEYS”;

[0248] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 453,355 entitled “INSERTABLE DEACTIVATOR ELEMENT FOR SURGICAL STAPLER LOCKOUTS”;

[0249] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 453,369 entitled “DUAL CAM CARTRIDGE BASED FEATURE FOR UNLOCKING A SURGICALSTAPLER LOCKOUT”;

[0250] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,391 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH CAM SURFACES CONFIGURED TO ENGAGEPRIMARY AND SECONDARY PORTIONS OF A LOCKOUT OF A SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE";

[0251] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,413 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH MOVABLE AUTHENTICATION KEYARRANGEMENTS”;

[0252] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,423 entitled "Deactivator Election for Defeating Surgical Staplening Device Lockouts"; and

[0253] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 453,429 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH INTEGRAL AUTHENTICATION KEYS”.

[0254] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. design patent applications, each filed on June 25, 2019, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference:

[0255] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 696,066 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH FIRING SYSTEMAUTHENTICATION KEY";

[0256] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 696,067 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE RETAINER WITH CLOSURE SYSTEMAUTHENTICATION KEY"; and

[0257] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 696,072 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE”.

[0258] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications, each filed on February 21, 2019, the full text of which is incorporated herein by reference:

[0259] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281658 entitled “METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER THAT HASSEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS”;

[0260] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,670 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A LOCKOUT KEY CONFIGURED TO LIFTA FIRING MEMBER";

[0261] - 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”;

[0262] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,685 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING CO-OPERATING LOCKOUT FEATURES”;

[0263] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,693 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT AND ANEXTERIOR ACCESS ORIFICE TO PERMIT ARTIFICIAL UNLOCKING OF THE LOCKOUT”;

[0264] - 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 INSTALLEDTHEREIN";

[0265] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281,707 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A DEACTIVATABLE LOCKOUT";

[0266] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 281741 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT";

[0267] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,762 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH CARTRIDGE COMPATIBLE CLOSURE AND FIRING LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0268] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,660 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH FIRING MEMBER DRIVEN CAMMING ASSEMBLY THAT HAS an ONBOARD TISSUE CUTTING FEATURE";

[0269] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,666 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS";

[0270] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281672 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH ASYMMETRIC CLOSURE FEATURES”;

[0271] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,678 entitled "ROTARY DRIVEN FIRING MEMBERS WITH DIFFERENT ANVIL AND FRAMEENGAGEMENT FEATURES"; and

[0272] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 281,682 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH SEPARATE ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS AND FIRING MEMBER THAT ENGAGES BOTH JAWS WHILE FIRING".

[0273] The applicant of this patent application owns the following U.S. provisional patent applications filed on March 28, 2018, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference:

[0274] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,302 entitled “INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH encrypted COMMUNICATIONCAPABILITIES”;

[0275] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,294 entitled “DATA STRIPPING METHOD TO INTERROGATE PATIENT RECORDS AND CREATE ANONYMIZED RECORD”;

[0276] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,300 entitled “SURGICAL HUB SITUATIONAL AWARENESS”;

[0277] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,309 entitled “SURGICAL HUB SPATIAL AWARENESS TO DETERMINE DEVICES INOPERATING THEATER”;

[0278] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,310 entitled “COMPUTER IMPLEMENTED INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS”;

[0279] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,291 entitled “USE OF LASER LIGHT AND RED-GREEN-BLUE COLORATION TO DETERMINEPROPERTIES OF BACK SCATTERED LIGHT”;

[0280] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,296 entitled “ADAPTIVE CONTROL PROGRAM UPDATES FOR SURGICAL DEVICES”;

[0281] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,333 entitled “CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS FOR CUSTOMIZATION ANDRECOMMENDATIONS TO A USER”;

[0282] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,327 entitled “CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS FOR SECURITY AND AUTHENTICATION TRENDS AND REACTIVE MEASURES”;

[0283] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,315 entitled “DATA HANDLING AND PRIORITIZATION IN A CLOUD ANALYTICSNETWORK”;

[0284] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,313 entitled “CLOUD INTERFACE FOR COUPLED SURGICAL DEVICES”;

[0285] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,320 entitled “DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS”;

[0286] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,307 entitled "AUTOMATIC TOOL ADJUSTMENTS FOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICALPLATFORMS"; and

[0287] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 649,323 entitled “SENSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR Robot-Assisted Surgical Platforms”.

[0288] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. provisional patent application filed on March 30, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference:

[0289] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 650,887 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH OPTIMIZED SENSING CAPABILITIES".

[0290] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent application filed on December 4, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0291] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 209,423 entitled “METHOD OF COMPRESSING TISSUE WITHIN A STAPLING DEVICE AND SIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING THE LOCATION OF THE TISSUE WITHIN THE JAWS”.

[0292] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on August 20, 2018, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0293] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 105,101 entitled "METHOD FOR FAbricating SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS";

[0294] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 105,183 entitled “REINFORCED DEFORMABLE ANVIL TIP FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVIL”;

[0295] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,150 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH STAPLE DIRECTING PROTRUSIONS ANDTISSUE STABILITY FEATURES";

[0296] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 105,098 entitled "FABRICATING TECHNIQUES FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS";

[0297] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,140 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH TISSUE STOP FEATURES CONFIGURED TO AVOID TISSUE PINCH";

[0298] - U.S. patent application serial number 16 / 105,081 entitled “METHOD FOR OPERATING A POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0299] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,094 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE JAW CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0300] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,097 entitled “POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS TO CONVERT LINEAR DRIVE MOTIONS TO ROTARY DRIVE MOTIONS”;

[0301] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,104 entitled “POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ANDLOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR LINKING AN ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM TO A FIRING DRIVE SYSTEM”;

[0302] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,119 entitled “ARTICULATION MOTOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH DEDICATED ARTICULATION MOTOR ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0303] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,160 entitled "SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOTOR POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

[0304] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 660,252 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS”.

[0305] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on August 3, 2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0306] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 668,324 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM SHAFT INTERCONNECTION";

[0307] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 668,301 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM BAILOUT"; and

[0308] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 668,319 entitled “SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION BAILOUT”.

[0309] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 28, 2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0310] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,693 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN OFFSET ARTICULATION JOINT”;

[0311] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,729 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO”;

[0312] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,785 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEM RATIO";

[0313] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,808 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING FIRING MEMBER SUPPORTS”;

[0314] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,837 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEMLOCKABLE TO A FRAME”;

[0315] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,941 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION SYSTEMLOCKABLE BY A CLOSURE SYSTEM”;

[0316] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 636,029 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A HOUSING ARRANGEMENT”;

[0317] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,958 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING SELECTIVELY ACTUATABLEROTATABLE COUPLERS”;

[0318] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,981 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS COMPRISING SHORTENED STAPLECARTRIDGE NOSES”;

[0319] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 636,009 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHAFT INCLUDING A CLOSURETUBE PROFILE”;

[0320] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,663 entitled “METHOD FOR ARTICULATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0321] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,530 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR WITH AXIALLY SHORTENED ARTICULATION JOINT CONFIGURATIONS”;

[0322] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,549 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OPEN AND CLOSABLE JAWS AND AXIALLYMOVABLE FIRING MEMBER THAT IS INITIALLY PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO THE JAWSPRIOR TO FIRING”;

[0323] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,559 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS CONSTRAINED TO PIVOT ABOUT ANAXIS UPON CONTACT WITH A CLOSURE MEMBER THAT IS PARKED IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TOTHE PIVOT AXIS";

[0324] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,578 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH IMPROVED JAW APERTURE ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0325] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,594 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING DEVICES WITH PIVOTABLE ANVIL WITH A TISSUE LOCATING ARRANGEMENT IN CLOSE PROXIMITY TO AN ANVIL PIVOT AXIS";

[0326] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,612 entitled "JAW RETAINER ARRANGEMENT FOR RETAINING A PIVOTABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT JAW IN PIVOTABLE RETAINING ENGAGEMENT WITH A SECOND SURGICALINSTRUMENT JAW";

[0327] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,621 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES”;

[0328] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,631 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER";

[0329] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 635,521 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENT”;

[0330] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,083 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT”;

[0331] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,087 entitled “SURGICAL FORMING ANVI”;

[0332] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,093 entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE”;

[0333] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,121 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT";

[0334] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,125 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT";

[0335] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,128 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT"; and

[0336] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 609,129 entitled “DISPLAY SCREEN PORTION OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AGRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE”.

[0337] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 27, 2017, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0338] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 634,024 entitled “SURGICAL ANVIL MANUFACTURING METHODS”;

[0339] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,035 entitled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS";

[0340] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,046 entitled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS";

[0341] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,054 entitled "SURGICAL ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS";

[0342] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,068 entitled “SURGICAL FIRING MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0343] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,076 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0344] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 634,090 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0345] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 634,099 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ANVILS"; and

[0346] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 634,117 entitled “ARTICULATION SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”.

[0347] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on December 21, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0348] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 386,185 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIESTHEREOF”;

[0349] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 386,230 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS”;

[0350] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,221 entitled “LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS”;

[0351] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 386,209 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF”;

[0352] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,198 entitled “LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES”;

[0353] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 386,240 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR”;

[0354] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,939 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN”;

[0355] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,941 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FORSHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES ANDARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

[0356] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,943 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS”;

[0357] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,950 entitled “SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONFEATURES”;

[0358] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,945 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN”;

[0359] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,946 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS”;

[0360] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,951 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASINGA JAW OPENING DISTANCE";

[0361] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,953 entitled “METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE”;

[0362] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,954 entitled "FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FORSURGICAL END EFFECTORS";

[0363] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,955 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOPARRANGEMENTS”;

[0364] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,948 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS";

[0365] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,956 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES";

[0366] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,958 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE ISPRESENT";

[0367] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,947 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN”;

[0368] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,896 entitled "METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT";

[0369] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,898 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENTTYPES OF STAPLES”;

[0370] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,899 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL”;

[0371] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,901 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISINGWINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN";

[0372] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,902 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER”;

[0373] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,904 entitled “STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND / ORSPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT”;

[0374] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,905 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT";

[0375] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,907 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUT AND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT”;

[0376] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,908 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE";

[0377] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,909 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE";

[0378] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,920 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0379] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,913 entitled “ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENERS”;

[0380] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,914 entitled “METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT”;

[0381] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,893 entitled “BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE FORMING POCKET PAIRS”;

[0382] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,929 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

[0383] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,911 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLECLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS”;

[0384] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,927 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES";

[0385] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,917 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPINGBREADTHS”;

[0386] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,900 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARYSIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS”;

[0387] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,931 entitled “NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FORSURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENERS”;

[0388] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,915 entitled “FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE”;

[0389] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,897 entitled “STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMINGSURFACE GROOVES”;

[0390] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,922 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES”;

[0391] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,924 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS";

[0392] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,912 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT AFIXED AXIS AND INCLUDE SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS”;

[0393] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,910 entitled “ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH”;

[0394] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,906 entitled “FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS”;

[0395] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 386,188 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES";

[0396] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,192 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAPSETTING FEATURES";

[0397] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,206 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES";

[0398] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,226 entitled “DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIES OF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS”;

[0399] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,222 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITHPOSITIVE OPENING FEATURES”;

[0400] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 386,236 entitled “CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENTS”;

[0401] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,887 entitled “METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICALINSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT”;

[0402] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,889 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTIONSYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM";

[0403] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,890 entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE ANDRETRACTABLE SYSTEMS”;

[0404] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,891 entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THEOUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS”;

[0405] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,892 entitled “SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO ANARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM”;

[0406] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,894 entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT”;

[0407] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,895 entitled “SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECONDARTICULATION LOCKOUTS”;

[0408] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,916 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS”;

[0409] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,918 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS";

[0410] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,919 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS”;

[0411] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,921 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENER CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMINGMEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES”;

[0412] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,923 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS”;

[0413] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,925 entitled “JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF A FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN FIRED CARTRIDGE ISINSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR”;

[0414] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,926 entitled “AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0415] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,928 entitled “Protective Cover Arrangements for A Joint Interface Between Amovable Jaw and Actor Shaft of a SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0416] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,930 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENINGFEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS";

[0417] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 385,932 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFTARRANGEMENT”;

[0418] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,933 entitled “ARTICULATION LOCK”;

[0419] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,934 entitled “ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR INAN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM”;

[0420] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,935 entitled "LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION"; and

[0421] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,936 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKEAMPLIFICATION FEATURES”.

[0422] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0423] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 191,775 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES”;

[0424] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,807 entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPEDSTAPLES";

[0425] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 191,834 entitled “STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME”;

[0426] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,788 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES"; and

[0427] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 191,818 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS”.

[0428] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0429] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 569,218 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

[0430] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 569,227 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER";

[0431] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 569,259 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; and

[0432] - U.S. design patent application serial number 29 / 569,264 entitled “SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE”.

[0433] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications filed on April 1, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0434] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,325 entitled “METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM”;

[0435] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,321 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY";

[0436] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,326 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD";

[0437] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,263 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIPPORTION”;

[0438] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,262 entitled “ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT SYSTEM”;

[0439] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,277 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVILCONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER";

[0440] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,296 entitled "Interchangelable Surgical Tool Assembled with a Surgical Endeffertor That Is Selectively Rattatable About a Shaft Axis";

[0441] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,258 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION";

[0442] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,278 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVECUTTING OF TISSUE”;

[0443] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,284 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT”;

[0444] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,295 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSIONLOCKOUT”;

[0445] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,300 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT”;

[0446] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,196 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT";

[0447] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,203 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT”;

[0448] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,210 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGELOCKOUT”;

[0449] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,324 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM”;

[0450] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,335 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS”;

[0451] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,339 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT”;

[0452] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,253 entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OFSTAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS”;

[0453] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,304 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET";

[0454] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,331 entitled “ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENERS”;

[0455] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,336 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES”;

[0456] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 089,312 entitled “CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUESUPPORT”;

[0457] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,309 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM"; and

[0458] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 089,349 entitled “CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL”.

[0459] The applicant of this application also owns U.S. patent applications filed on December 31, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0460] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,488 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE INPOWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0461] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,525 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”; and

[0462] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 984,552 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROLCIRCUITS”.

[0463] The applicant of this application also owns U.S. patent applications filed on February 9, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0464] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,220 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLYTRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR”;

[0465] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,228 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATIONARRANGEMENTS”;

[0466] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT";

[0467] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,206 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY";

[0468] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,215 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATIONARRANGEMENTS”;

[0469] - U.S. patent application serial number 15 / 019,227 entitled “ARTICULATIONLINK ARRANGEMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATIONLINK ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0470] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,235 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLEDRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS”;

[0471] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,230 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAMARRANGEMENTS”; and

[0472] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 019,245 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONARRANGEMENTS”.

[0473] The applicant of this application also owns U.S. patent applications filed on February 12, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0474] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,254 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0475] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,259 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0476] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,275 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

[0477] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 043,289 entitled “MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”.

[0478] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on June 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0479] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,925 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING ARRANGEMENTS”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,182,818;

[0480] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,941 entitled “SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSINGFEATURES” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,052,102;

[0481] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,914 entitled “MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,405,863;

[0482] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,900 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAMSTRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,335,149;

[0483] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,885 entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now U.S. Patent 10,368,861; and

[0484] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 742,876 entitled “PUSH / PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,178,992.

[0485] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on March 6, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0486] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 640,746 entitled “POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 9,808,246;

[0487] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,795 entitled “MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,441,279;

[0488] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,832 entitled “ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURERATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256154.

[0489] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 640,935 entitled “OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TOMEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016 / 0256071;

[0490] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,831 entitled “MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTORFOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, now U.S. Patent No. 9,985,148;

[0491] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,859 entitled “TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINESTABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,052,044;

[0492] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,817 entitled “INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, now published as U.S. Patent Application No. 9,924,961;

[0493] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,844 entitled “CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULARSHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,045,776.

[0494] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,837 entitled “SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,993,248;

[0495] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 640,765 entitled “SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGEINTO A SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENER” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016 / 0256160;

[0496] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,799, entitled "SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON AROTATABLE SHAFT," now U.S. Patent 9,901,342; and

[0497] - The U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,780 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,245,033.

[0498] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on February 27, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0499] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,576 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION” is now U.S. Patent 10,045,779;

[0500] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,546 entitled “SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,180,463.

[0501] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,560 entitled “SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND / OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE BATTERIES” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016 / 0249910;

[0502] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,566 entitled “CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY” is now U.S. Patent 10,182,816.

[0503] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,555 entitled “SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TOBE SERVICED” is now U.S. Patent 10,321,907;

[0504] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,542 entitled “REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 9,931,118;

[0505] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,548 entitled “POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,245,028;

[0506] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 633,526 entitled “ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE” is now U.S. Patent 9,993,258;

[0507] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,541 entitled "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY", now U.S. Patent 10,226,250; and

[0508] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 633,562 entitled “SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFEPARAMETER” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,159,483.

[0509] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on December 18, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0510] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,478 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,844,374.

[0511] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 574,483 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS” is now U.S. Patent 10,188,385;

[0512] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 575,139 entitled “DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS” is now U.S. Patent 9,844,375;

[0513] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,148 entitled “LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,085,748.

[0514] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,130 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLE ABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,245,027.

[0515] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,143 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS”, now U.S. Patent No. 10,004,501;

[0516] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 575,117 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDMOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS”, now U.S. Patent 9,943,309;

[0517] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 575,154 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS” is now U.S. Patent 9,968,355;

[0518] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 574,493, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now U.S. Patent 9,897,000; and

[0519] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 574,500 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM” is now U.S. Patent 10,117,649.

[0520] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on March 1, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0521] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,295 entitled “Articulatable Surgical Instruments With Conductive Pathways For Signal Communication” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,700,309;

[0522] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,323 entitled “Rotary Powered Articulation Joints For Surgical Instruments” is now U.S. Patent 9,782,169;

[0523] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,338 entitled “Thumbwheel Switch Arrangements For Surgical Instruments” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014 / 0249557;

[0524] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,499 entitled “Electromechanical Surgical Device with Signal RelayArrangement” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,358,003;

[0525] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,460 entitled "Multiple Processor Motor Control for Modular Surgical Instruments" is now U.S. Patent 9,554,794;

[0526] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,358 entitled “Joystick Switch Assemblies For Surgical Instruments” is now U.S. Patent 9,326,767;

[0527] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,481 entitled "Sensor Straightened End Effector During Removal ThroughTrocar" is now U.S. Patent 9,468,438;

[0528] - The U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,518 entitled “Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with RemovableImplement Portions” is now published as U.S. Patent Application 2014 / 0246475.

[0529] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,375, entitled "Rotary Powered Surgical Instruments With Multiple Degrees of Freedom," now U.S. Patent 9,398,911; and

[0530] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 782,536 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP” is now U.S. Patent 9,307,986.

[0531] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 14, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0532] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,097 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE” is now U.S. Patent 9,687,230;

[0533] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,193 entitled “CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICALINSTRUMENT” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 9,332,987;

[0534] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,053 entitled “Interchangelable Shaft Assemblies for Use with a Surgicalinstrum” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,883,860;

[0535] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086 entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATIONLOCK” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2014 / 0263541;

[0536] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,210 entitled “SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FORSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,808,244;

[0537] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,148 entitled “MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 10,470,762;

[0538] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,066 entitled “DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS” is now U.S. Patent 9,629,623;

[0539] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,117 entitled “ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS” is now published as U.S. Patent Application No. 9,351,726.

[0540] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,130 entitled "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 9,351,727; and

[0541] - The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,159 entitled “METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 9,888,919.

[0542] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 7, 2014, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

[0543] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 200,111 entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" is now U.S. Patent 9,629,629.

[0544] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0545] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,106 entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015 / 0272582;

[0546] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,099 entitled “STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT” is now U.S. Patent 9,826,977;

[0547] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,094 entitled “VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES / PROCEDURE COUNT” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015 / 0272580;

[0548] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,117 entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUITAND WAKE UP CONTROL” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,013,049;

[0549] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,075 entitled “MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFTASSEMBLIES” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,743,929;

[0550] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,093 entitled “FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,028,761.

[0551] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,116 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015 / 0272571;

[0552] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,071 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR” is now U.S. Patent 9,690,362;

[0553] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,097 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS” is now U.S. Patent 9,820,738;

[0554] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,126 entitled “INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 10,004,497;

[0555] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,133 entitled “MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication 2015 / 0272557;

[0556] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,081 entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT” is now U.S. Patent 9,804,618;

[0557] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,076 entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,733,663;

[0558] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,111 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now U.S. Patent 9,750,499; and

[0559] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,125 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT” is now U.S. Patent 10,201,364.

[0560] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on September 5, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0561] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,103 entitled “CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,111,679;

[0562] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,119 entitled “ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,724,094;

[0563] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 478,908 entitled “MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION” is now U.S. Patent 9,737,301;

[0564] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 478,895 entitled “MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'SOUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION” is now U.S. Patent No. 9,757,128;

[0565] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 479,110 entitled “POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE” is now U.S. Patent 10,016,199;

[0566] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,098 entitled “SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION” is now U.S. Patent No. 10,135,242;

[0567] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,115, entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE," now U.S. Patent 9,788,836; and

[0568] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 479,108 entitled “LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION” is now published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066913.

[0569] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 9, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0570] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,590 entitled “MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVESHAFTS” is now U.S. Patent 9,826,976;

[0571] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,581 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRINGDRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT” is now U.S. Patent 9,649,110;

[0572] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,595 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLINGTHE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 9,844,368;

[0573] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,588 entitled “POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENER” is now U.S. Patent 10,405,857;

[0574] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,591 entitled “TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT” is now U.S. Patent 10,149,680;

[0575] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,584 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENTFEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS", now U.S. Patent 9,801,626;

[0576] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,587 entitled “POWERED SURGICAL STAPLE / FASTENER” is now U.S. Patent 9,867,612;

[0577] - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,586 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now U.S. Patent 10,136,887; and

[0578] - The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 248,607 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUSINDICATION ARRANGEMENTS" is now U.S. Patent 9,814,460.

[0579] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 16, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0580] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,365 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR”;

[0581] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,376 entitled “LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER”;

[0582] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,382 entitled “LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP”;

[0583] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,385 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL"; and

[0584] - U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 812,372 entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR”.

[0585] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the apparatuses and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the apparatuses and methods specifically described and illustrated herein are non-limiting exemplary embodiments, and that the scope of the various embodiments of the invention is defined only by the claims. Features shown or described in conjunction with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.

[0586] Throughout this specification, references to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," or "implementation" mean that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, phrases such as "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," or "in an embodiment" appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, in one or more embodiments, specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner. Therefore, without limitation, a specific feature, structure, or characteristic shown or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined, in whole or in part, with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this invention.

[0587] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein in relation to the clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. "Proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician, and "distal" refers to the portion furthest from the clinician's position. It should also be understood that, for brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used in conjunction with accompanying drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and locations, and these terms are not restrictive and / or absolute.

[0588] Various exemplary apparatuses and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, those skilled in the art will readily understand that the various methods and apparatuses disclosed herein can be used in many surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in combination with open surgery. Continuing to refer to this specific embodiment, those skilled in the art will further understand that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through natural cavities, through incisions or puncture holes formed in tissues, etc. The working portion or end effector portion of the instrument can be inserted directly into the patient's body or through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument are advanced.

[0589] The surgical suturing system may include an axis and an end effector extending from the axis. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and can be removed from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the staple cartridge cannot be removed from the first jaw or at least can be easily replaced 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 closed axis; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical suturing system also includes an articulation joint configured to allow the end effector to rotate or perform articulation relative to the axis. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments without an articulation joint are contemplated.

[0590] 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 an 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. Staples, removably stored in the cartridge body, can then be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined within the cartridge body, in which staples are removably stored. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slots, and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slots. Other arrangements of the staple cavities and staples are also possible.

[0591] The nail is supported by a nail actuator within the cartridge. The actuator is movable between a first or non-firing position and a second or firing position to eject the nail from the cartridge. The actuator is retained within the cartridge by a retainer extending around the bottom of the cartridge and including a resilient member configured to grip the cartridge and hold the retainer to the cartridge. The actuator is movable between its non-firing position and its firing 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 multiple ramp surfaces configured to slide beneath the actuator toward the anvil and to lift the actuator, on which the nail is supported.

[0592] In addition to the above, the slider can also move distally via the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider and push it distally. A longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge is configured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member also includes a first cam engaging a first jaw and a second cam engaging a second jaw. As the firing member advances distally, the first and second cams control the distance or tissue gap between the platform of the cartridge and the anvil. The firing member also includes a blade configured to cut into tissue captured between the cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable that the blade be positioned at least partially close to the ramp surface so that the staples are fired before the blade.

[0593] Surgical suture instrument 1000 is shown Figures 1 to 17 The suture instrument 1000 includes a shaft 1100, an end effector 1200, and an articulation joint 1300 rotatably connected to the shaft 1100. The articulation joint 1300 includes an articulated portion 1310 rotatably connected to a distal end 1110 of the shaft 1100 about a first articulation pivot 1320. The articulated portion 1310 is also rotatably connected to a proximal end 1210 of the end effector about a second articulation pivot 1330. Therefore, the articulated portion 1310 is rotatable about a first articulation axis AA1 relative to a frame 1120 of the shaft 1100, and the end effector 1200 is rotatable about a second articulation axis AA2 relative to the articulated portion 1310. The suture instrument 1000 also includes an articulation drive system 1500 configured to articulate the end effector 1200 about the articulation joint 1300.

[0594] In addition to the above, the joint motion drive system 1500 includes a first joint motion drive cable 1520 attached to a first articulated portion 1310 and a second joint motion drive cable 1530 attached to the proximal end portion 1210 of the end effector 1200. The first joint motion drive cable 1520 is operatively coupled to one or more electric motors such that when one of the first joint motion drive cables 1520 is pulled proximally, the articulated portion 1310 articulates about a first joint motion pivot 1320 in a first direction, and when the other joint motion drive cable 1520 is pulled proximally, the articulated portion 1310 articulates about the first joint motion pivot 1320 in a second or opposite direction. Similarly, the second joint motion drive cable 1530 is operatively coupled to one or more electric motors such that when one of the second joint motion drive cables 1530 is pulled proximally, the end effector 1200 performs articulation about the second joint motion pivot 1330 in a first direction, and when the other joint motion drive cable 1520 is pulled proximally, the end effector 1200 performs articulation about the second joint motion pivot 1330 in a second or opposite direction.

[0595] The end effector 1200 includes a first jaw 1220 and a second jaw 1230, the second jaw being rotatable relative to the first jaw 1220 about a rotational axis or a closed axis CA defined by a pivot 1240. The first jaw 1220 includes a channel configured to receive a staple cartridge 1400 or any other suitable staple cartridge. The staple cartridge 1400 includes a staple cavity 1423 defined therein. Figure 4 ) of the 1422 ( Figure 4 The second jaw 1230 includes a staple removably stored in a staple chamber 1423 and a staple driver configured to support the staple and eject it from the cartridge 1422 during the staple firing stroke. The second jaw 1230 includes an anvil with a staple-forming recess configured to deform the staple as it is ejected from the cartridge 1400 during the staple firing stroke. The cartridge 1400 includes a tissue support surface 1421, and the second jaw 1230 includes a tissue compression surface 1231 configured to compress patient tissue between the jaws 1220 and 1230 when the second jaw 1230 is moved to its closed or clamped position. As described in more detail below, the suture instrument 1000 includes a closure actuation system 1600 configured to move the second jaw 1230 between an open, unclamped position and a closed, clamped position.

[0596] Main Reference Figures 7 to 9The closed drive system 1600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 1610 driven by an electric motor operatively coupled to the drive shaft 1610 via a flexible drive shaft 1910. The flexible drive shaft 1910 extends through the shaft 1100 and the articulated joint 1300 such that the distal end of the flexible drive shaft 1910 is coupled to the closed drive shaft 1610 at a position distal to the articulated joint 1300; however, the closed drive shaft 1610 can be coupled to the flexible drive shaft 1910 at any suitable position. The distal end of the flexible drive shaft 1910 includes a hexagonal recess configured to receive a hexagonal lug extending proximally from the closed drive shaft 1610, such that the flexible drive shaft 1910 and the closed drive shaft 1610 rotate together; however, any suitable connection between the shafts 1610 and 1910 can be used.

[0597] In addition to the above, the closing drive system 1600 includes a quick-closing system and a force-closing system. Both the quick-closing system and the force-closing system are configured to close the second jaw 1230, but in different ways. (Main Reference) Figure 7 The closing drive system 1600 includes a quick-closing member 1630 and a force-closing member 1620. The force-closing member 1620 includes a threaded orifice defined therein, which threadedly engages with the threads of the closing drive shaft 1610. When the drive shaft 1610 rotates in a first direction, the drive shaft 1610 drives the force-closing member 1620 proximally. The quick-closing member 1630 is not threadedly engaged with the drive shaft 1610, and when the drive shaft 1610 rotates in the first direction, the quick-closing member 1630 is pushed proximally by the force-closing member 1620 via a spring 1640 positioned between the force-closing member 1620 and the quick-closing member 1630. At the start of the closing process, the quick-closing member 1630 is in direct contact with the second jaw 1230, but the force-closing member 1620 is not in direct contact with the second jaw. The quick-closing member 1630 includes a proximal end 1632 and a drive arm 1634 extending distally therefrom. Each of the drive arms 1634 includes a drive pin 1639 extending inwardly into a drive recess 1239 defined in the second jaw 1230, such that when the quick-closing member 1630 is proximally pushed by the force-closing member 1620, the quick-closing member 1630 rotates the second jaw 1230 to a closed position. Due to this arrangement, the initial closing movement of the second jaw 1230 is caused by the quick-closing member 1630.

[0598] It is worth noting that, in addition to the above, when a strong force is applied proximally as the closing member 1620, the spring 1640 is compressed between the strong closing member 1620 and the quick closing member 1630. The amount of relative movement between the strong closing member 1620 and the quick closing member 1630 is a function of the spring constant of the spring 1640 and the clamping load or resistance applied to the tissue by the second jaw 1230. Therefore, the closed position of the second jaw 1230 at this stage of the closing stroke can vary depending on, for example, the thickness and / or density of the tissue located between the second jaw 1230 and the staple cartridge 1400. If thicker tissue is located between the second jaw 1230 and the staple cartridge 1400, for example, the tissue compression surface 1231 of the second jaw 1230 may not be parallel to the tissue support surface 1421 of the staple cartridge 1400. If a thinner tissue is positioned between the second jaw 1230 and the staple cartridge 1400, the tissue compression surface 1231 of the second jaw 1230 may be parallel to or previously parallel to the tissue support surface 1421 of the staple cartridge 1400. This variability is not significant at this stage because the rapid closure system of the closure system 1600 is designed to provide a rough approximation of the position of the second jaw 1230 on the patient's tissue before the tissue is fully clamped by the high-load closure system and before the staples are fired by the staple firing system 1700.

[0599] If the clinician wishes to reopen the second jaw 1230, in addition to the above, the clinician controls the electric motor to operate it in the opposite direction to rotate the closing drive shaft 1610 in the opposite direction. In such an example, the closing drive shaft 1610 drives the force closing member 1620 distally, which relaxes or reduces the force within the spring 1640 to allow the second jaw 1230 to open at least slightly. Furthermore, in such an example, the force closing member 1620 can distally push the quick closing member 1630 to push the second jaw 1230 into an open or unclamped position. More specifically, each of the drive arms 1634 of the quick closing member 1630 includes an inwardly extending tab 1635 that contacts the force closing member 1620 when the force closing member 1620 retracts distally, such that the force closing member 1620 directly or definitively pushes the quick closing member 1630 distally during the opening stroke. Clinicians can open and close the second jaw 1230 as needed to properly position the jaws of the suture instrument 1000 onto the patient tissue. Compared to the force closure system discussed in more detail below, the rapid closure system allows the second jaw 1230 to move quickly without applying large compression or clamping loads to the patient tissue.

[0600] As described above, the closing drive shaft 1610 rotates to drive the force closing member 1620 proximally, thereby pushing the quick closing member 1630 proximally and quickly closing the second jaw 1230. At this time, the force closing member 1620 is not in direct contact with the second jaw 1230. However, the continued rotation of the closing drive shaft 1610 causes the force closing member 1620 to contact the second jaw 1230. More specifically, the force closing member 1620 includes cams 1625 defined thereon that contact cam surfaces 1235 defined on the bottom of the second jaw 1230 and drive the second jaw 1230 to its closed position. Due to the direct contact between the cams 1625 and the second jaw 1230, the second jaw 1230 is definitively positioned in its closed position. In this example, therefore, the nail-forming recess defined in the second jaw 1230 is correctly aligned with the nail in the nail magazine 1400. Furthermore, a high clamping force is thus applied to the tissue clamped between the second jaw 1230 and the staple cartridge 1400. At this time, the staple firing system 1700 is operable to fire staples from the staple cartridge 1400. However, if the clinician instead wishes to reopen the second jaw 1230, the closing drive shaft 1610 can operate in the opposite direction to drive the powerful closing member 1620 distally to disengage the cam 1625 from the second jaw 1230, and to fully open the second jaw 1230, the rapid closing member 1240 is driven as described above. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent 9,585,658, entitled “STAPLING SYSTEMS”, published March 7, 2017, is incorporated herein by reference.

[0601] The staple firing system 1700 of the suture instrument 1000 includes a firing drive shaft 1710. The proximal end of the firing drive shaft 1710 includes a hexagonal lug extending proximally, which operatively engages with a flexible rotatable firing drive shaft extending through a closed drive shaft 1610; however, any suitable connection between shafts 1610 and 1710 can be used. The flexible drive shaft is operatively coupled to an electric motor that operates independently of the closed motor, such that the firing drive shaft 1710 operates independently of the closed drive shaft 1610. The staple firing system 1700 also includes a firing member 1720, which includes a nut 1730 that threadedly engages with a threaded portion of the firing drive shaft 1710. When the firing drive shaft 1710 rotates in a first direction, the firing member 1720 is driven distally to perform the staple firing stroke. The firing member 1720 also includes ramps 1740 configured to engage the actuator in the staple cartridge 1400 and eject staples from the staple cartridge 1400 during the staple firing stroke. The firing member 1720 also includes a tissue cutter 1750 that cuts sutured tissue during the staple firing stroke. The firing member 1720 is proximally driven when the firing drive shaft 1710 rotates in a second or opposite direction.

[0602] As mentioned above, the main reference Figure 4 and Figure 9 The first jaw 1220 includes a channel 1222 configured to receive a staple cartridge 1400. The first jaw 1220 is pinned to the proximal end portion 1210 of the end effector 1200 by two pins 1214, such that there is no relative movement or at least substantially relative movement between the first jaw 1220 and the proximal end portion 1210. The first jaw 1220 includes a proximal end portion 1224 configured to receive a proximal end portion 1424 of the staple cartridge 1400 and a distal end portion 1226 configured to receive a distal end portion 1426 of the staple cartridge 1400. In this embodiment, the distal end portion 1426 of the staple cartridge 1400 is suspended above the distal end portion 1226 of the first jaw 1220, which provides a reference for correctly positioning the distal end portion 1426 of the staple cartridge 1400 relative to the channel 1222. The staple cartridge 1400 includes a longitudinal slot 1428 defined in a cartridge body 1422, the longitudinal slot being configured to receive a portion therein of the firing member 1420. The first jaw 1220 also includes a longitudinal slot 1229 defined therein, which aligns with the longitudinal slot 1428 when the staple cartridge 1400 is positioned in the channel 1222. The longitudinal slot 1228 is an internal slot defined in the bottom portion of the channel 1222, the internal slot being configured to receive a bottom cam 1729 of the firing member 1720 during the staple firing stroke. The first jaw 1220 also includes a cover 1223 attached to the channel 1222 by welding, for example, the cover enclosing the internal longitudinal slot 1228 of the channel 1222.

[0603] As described above, the second jaw 1230 is rotatably mounted to the first jaw 1220 about a pivot 1240. (Main Reference) Figure 9The second jaw 1230 includes outwardly extending pins 1237 that are tightly received in slots 1227 defined in the first jaw 1220. The pins 1237 are captured in the slots 1227 by retaining members 1225 press-fitted to the pins 1237, such that the pins 1237 can pivot within the slots 1227 but cannot translate within them. The second jaw 1230 also includes an anvil body 1232, a proximal end 1234, and a distal end 1236. Similar to the first jaw 1220, the second jaw 1230 includes an internal slot 1238 defined therein, configured to receive a top cam 1728 of the firing member 1720 during the firing stroke. The second jaw 1230 also includes a cap 1233 attached by welding to the anvil body 1232, for example, the cap enclosing the internal longitudinal slot 1238 of the anvil body 1232. During the firing stroke, the top cam 1728 of the firing member 1720 engages the second jaw 1230, and the bottom cam 1729 engages the first jaw 1220. Thus, cams 1728 and 1729 work together to hold the second jaw 1230 in place relative to the first jaw 1220.

[0604] Main Reference Figure 8 The suture instrument 1000 also includes a sensor system 1800 configured to assess the position of the firing member 1720. The sensor system 1800 includes a cable 1810 extending through the shaft 1100, the cable wrapping around at least two conductors or wires 1820. The wires 1820 form a circuit with a sensor 1830, such as an RFID antenna, which, for example, communicates signaling with a controller of the suture instrument. The firing member 1720 includes a detectable component, such as an RFID tag, which can be detected by the sensor system 1800, for example, when the firing member 1720 is in its proximal unfired position. As the firing member 1720 advances distally during the nail firing stroke, the RFID tag is no longer detected by the sensor system 1800, and the controller can determine that the nail firing stroke is in progress, or that at least the nail cartridge 1400 has been at least partially fired. The end effector 1200 also includes a sensor support 1840 supporting the sensor 1830.

[0605] Surgical Instruments 32000 are shown Figure 73 and Figure 74Similar to the above, surgical instrument 32000 includes an end effector 32200 and a closure system 32600. Surgical instrument 32000 also includes an end effector articulation system and a nail firing system, but for brevity, these systems are not described herein. The end effector 32200 includes a first jaw configured to receive a nail cartridge and a second jaw 32230 having an anvil rotatably coupled to the first jaw about a pivot 32240. The second jaw 32230 can be opened or closed by the closure system 32600 from an open or unclamped position. Figure 73 ) Move to the closed or clamping position ( Figure 74 The closure system 32600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 32610, which includes a distal end rotatably supported within a first jaw by a bearing. The closure system 32600 also includes a closure member or nut 32620 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the rotatable drive shaft 32610. When the drive shaft 32610 rotates in a first direction, the closure member 32620 is proximally driven to close the end actuator 32200, and when the drive shaft 32610 rotates in a second or opposite direction, the closure member 32620 is distally driven to open the end actuator 32200. The closure system 32600 also includes a closure connector 32630 pivotally mounted to the closure member 32620 about a pivot 32622 and pivotally mounted to the second jaw 32230 about a pivot 32632. When the closing member 32620 is driven proximally, the closing connector 32630 drives the proximal end 32234 of the second jaw 32230 upward, causing the second jaw 32230 to rotate to its closed position, such as... Figure 74As shown. Notably, the closure connector 32630 is driven to an upright position, with pivot 32632 aligned with pivot 32622, and thus, the closure connector 32630 is locked in phase, thereby providing a substantial clamping force for capturing tissue between the second jaw 32230 and the first jaw. In this position, the tissue compression surface 32231 of the second jaw 32230 is parallel to the tissue support surface of the staple cartridge; however, when the second jaw 32230 is driven by the closure drive system 32600, the system can be arranged to over-clamp tissue by oriented the compression surface 32231 toward the staple cartridge. In any case, for a given speed of the closure drive shaft 32610, the connector 32630 rotates rapidly at the beginning of the closure stroke compared to the end of the closure stroke. This is because the initial orientation of the closing connector 32630 is relatively flat or substantially aligned with the movement of the closing member 32620, and the final orientation of the closing connector 32630 is orthogonal to or at least substantially perpendicular to the movement of the closing member 32620. Therefore, for a given speed of the closing drive shaft 32610, the initial movement of the second jaw 32230 toward the first jaw is rapid compared to the end of the closing stroke. When the closing member 32620 is driven distally, the closing member 32620 pulls down the proximal end 32234 via the connector 32640 to open the second jaw 32230.

[0606] Surgical Instrument 33000 is shown Figure 75 and Figure 76 Surgical instrument 33000 includes an end effector 33200 and a closure system 33600. Surgical instrument 33000 also includes an end effector articulation system and a nail firing system, but for brevity, these systems are not described herein. The end effector 33200 includes a first jaw configured to receive a nail cartridge and a second jaw 33230 having an anvil rotatably coupled to the first jaw about a pivot 33240. The second jaw 33230 can be opened or closed by the closure system 33600 from an open or unclamped position. Figure 75 ) Move to the closed or clamping position ( Figure 76The closing system 33600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 33610, which includes a distal end rotatably supported by a first jaw via a bearing. The closing system 33600 also includes a closing member or nut 33620 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the rotatable drive shaft 33610. When the drive shaft 33610 rotates in a first direction, the closing member 33620 is driven proximally to close the end actuator 33200, and when the drive shaft 33610 rotates in a second or opposite direction, the closing member 33620 is driven distally to allow the end actuator 32200 to open. The proximal end 33234 of the second jaw 33230 includes a distal cam surface 33233 and a proximal cam surface 33235 sequentially engaged by the closing member 33620 during the closing stroke. Notably, the distal cam surface 33233 includes a linear or at least substantially linear angled surface. When the closing member 33620 contacts the distal cam surface 33233, the closing member 33620 causes the second jaw 33230 to rotate downward at a first rate. Similarly, the proximal cam surface 33235 comprises a linear or at least substantially linear angled surface. When the closing member 33620 contacts the proximal cam surface 33235, the closing member 33620 causes the second jaw 33230 to rotate downward at a second rate faster than the first rate. Therefore, the initial clamping movement of the second jaw 33230 is rapid, while the final clamping movement of the second jaw 33230 is slower. Furthermore, the shallower cam angle of the proximal cam surface 33235 allows the second jaw 33230 to exert a large clamping force on the tissue during the final clamping movement of the second jaw 33230. When the closing member 33620 is driven distally, the closing member 33620 disengages from the proximal cam surface 33235 and the distal cam surface 33233, allowing the second jaw 33230 to open. In at least one embodiment, the second jaw 33230 is opened by, for example, a spring and / or a pin-firing system when the firing member retracts.

[0607] Figures 77 to 80 Surgical instrument 34000 is shown. Surgical instrument 34000 includes an end effector 34200 and a closure system 34600. Surgical instrument 34000 also includes an end effector articulation system and a nail firing system, but these systems are not described herein for the sake of brevity. The end effector 34200 includes a first jaw 34220 configured to receive a nail cartridge and a second jaw 34230 having an anvil rotatably coupled to the first jaw 34220 about a pivot 34240. The second jaw 34230 can be opened or closed by the closure system 34600 from an open or unclamped position. Figure 77 ) Move to the closed or clamping position ( Figure 78 ) to over-clamping position ( Figure 79The closing system 34600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 42610. Figure 80 The rotatable drive shaft includes a distal end rotatably supported by a bearing in the first jaw. The closing system 34600 also includes a closing member or nut 34620 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the rotatable drive shaft 34610 and a pivotable cam 34630 rotatably mounted to the closing member 34620 about a pin 34622. When the drive shaft 34610 rotates in a first direction, the closing member 34620 is driven proximally such that a cam surface 34633 defined on the cam 34630 and a cam surface 34625 defined on the closing member 34620 sequentially engage a second jaw 34230 to close the end actuator 34200. The second jaw 34230 includes a first cam surface 34233 and a second cam surface 34235 defined thereon, respectively engaged by the cam surface 34633 and the cam surface 34625. At the start of the closing stroke, refer to... Figure 78 The cam 34630 engages the first cam surface 34233 on the second jaw 34230 to rapidly pivot the second jaw 34230 to a closed or clamping position. However, at this time, the cam surface 34625 defined on the closing member 34620 is not yet in contact with the second cam surface 34235 defined on the second jaw 34230. However, a further rotation of the closing drive shaft 34610 in the same direction drives the closing member 34620 proximally to position the cam surface 34625 in contact with the cam surface 34235 on the second jaw 34230. Simultaneously, the cam 34630 is pushed downwards, thus not contacting the second jaw 34230. More specifically, see main reference. Figure 80 The cam 34630 includes a pin 34632 extending laterally therefrom, which travels in a slot 34222 defined in the first jaw 34220, and due to the profile of the slot 34222, the cam 34630 is pulled downwards and thus not in contact with the second jaw 34230 when the closing member 34620 contacts the second jaw 34230. At this time, further rotation of the closing drive shaft 34610 in the same direction causes the closing member 34620 to drive the second jaw 34230 into its over-clamping orientation, as... Figure 79 As shown. In this case, the closing member 34620 is wedged between the first jaw 34220 and the second jaw 34230, and the position of the second jaw 34230 is determined by the closing member 34620.

[0608] When the closing drive shaft 34610 rotates in the second or opposite direction, the closing member 34620 is driven distally to disengage the closing member 34620 from the second jaw 34230. Furthermore, in this example, due to the interaction between the pin 34632 and the sidewalls of the slot 34222, the pivotable cam 34630 is pivoted upwards to the appropriate position to reset the cam 34630. The closing system 34600 also includes opening connectors 34640, which are pivotally mounted to the closing member 34620 about the pivot pin 34624 and to the second jaw 34230 about the pivot 34632. When the closing member 34620 is driven distally, the opening connectors 34640 drive the proximal end 34234 of the second jaw 34230 downwards to rotate the second jaw 34230 to its open position. Figure 77 It is worth noting that each of the opening connectors 34640 includes a slot 34644 defined therein, which allows the pivot pin 34624 to slide within the connector 34640 and allows relative movement between the opening connector 34640 and the closing member 34620 during the closing stroke, as discussed above.

[0609] Surgical Instruments 35000 shown Figure 81 and Figure 82The surgical instrument 35000 includes an end effector 35200, a closure system 35600, a nail firing system 34700, and an end effector articulation system. Similar to the end effector 34200, the end effector 35200 includes a first jaw 34220 and a second jaw 34230. The first jaw 34220 is configured to receive a staple cartridge 34400 or any other suitable staple cartridge. The second jaw 34230 can pivot relative to the first jaw 34220 about a pivot 34240 via the closure system 35600 between an open position and a closed position. The closure system 35600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 35610 and a closure member or nut 35620 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the drive shaft 35610. When the drive shaft 35610 rotates in a first direction, the closure member 35620 is proximally driven to contact the second jaw 34230 to close the second jaw 34230. The closure system 35600 also includes an opening connector 35460 rotatably mounted to the closing member 35620 about a pin 35622 extending into a slot 35642 defined in the opening connector 35460. The opening connector 35460 is also pivotally mounted to the second jaw 35230 about a pin 25232, such that when the drive shaft 35610 rotates in the opposite direction and drives the closing member 35620 distally, the closing member 35630 pulls the second jaw 35230 to the open position by pulling the opening connector 35460. Notably, the closing member 35630 applies an opening force to the second jaw 34230 at a different position than where it applies the closing force. Once the second jaw 35230 is closed, or at least properly closed, the rotatable drive shaft 34710 of the nail firing system 34700 is driven in the manner described elsewhere herein to perform the nail firing stroke.

[0610] Figures 83 to 86 Surgical instrument 36000 is shown. Surgical instrument 36000 includes an end effector 36200, a closure system 36600, a nail firing system 36700, and an end effector articulation system. The end effector 36200 includes a first jaw 36220 and a second jaw 36230. The first jaw 36220 is configured to receive a nail cartridge when the second jaw 36230 pivots relative to the first jaw 36220 about a pivot 36240 via the closure system 36600 between an open and closed position. The closure system 36600 includes a rotatable drive shaft 36610 and a closure member or nut 36620 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the drive shaft 36610. When the drive shaft 36610 rotates in a first direction, the closure member 36620 is proximally driven to contact a cam surface 36235 defined on the second jaw 36230 to close the second jaw 36230, as shown. Figure 83 and Figure 84As shown. The surgical instrument 36000 also includes an opening member 36630 configured to bias the second jaw 36230 into an open position. The opening member 36630 is pushed against the second jaw 36320 by an opening spring 36640 positioned between the opening member 36630 and the frame of the end effector 36200. Therefore, when the closing member 36620 closes the second jaw 36230, the proximal movement of the closing member 36620 counteracts and overcomes the opening force applied to the second jaw 36320 by the opening member 36630. However, when the closing member 36620 is driven distally, the opening force applied to the second jaw 36320 by the opening member 36630 can push the second jaw 36230 open. However, in some instances, the opening force applied by the opening member 36630 may be insufficient to open or at least fully open the second jaw 36230, such as... Figure 85 As shown. Such instances may occur when the spring constant of the 36640 spring is low. In any case, refer to... Figure 86 The continued distal movement of the closing member 36320 brings it into contact with the opening member 36630, and drives the opening member 36630 to definitively open the second jaw 36230. Therefore, when the strength of the opening spring 36640 is insufficient to open the second jaw 36230, the retraction of the closing member 36620 can disengage the second jaw 36230.

[0611] Refer again Figures 83 to 86The nail firing system 36700 includes a rotatable drive shaft. The nail firing system 36700 includes an I-beam portion 36720, a threaded portion 36730, and a sliding portion 36740. The threaded portion 36730 is threadedly connected to the firing drive shaft, and the I-beam portion 36720 is fixedly mounted to the threaded portion 36730. Therefore, when the threaded portion 36730 is driven proximally and distally by the firing drive shaft, the I-beam portion 36720 moves together with the threaded portion 36730. Furthermore, the I-beam portion 36720 and the threaded portion 36730 cooperate to hold the first jaw 36220 and the second jaw 36230 in place relative to each other during the nail firing stroke. More specifically, the threaded portion 36730 includes a first cam 36739 engaging the first jaw 36220, and the I-beam portion 36720 includes a second cam 36729 engaging the second jaw 36230 during the nail firing stroke. The first jaw 36220 includes an internal slot 36229 defined therein configured to receive the first cam 36739, and similarly, the second jaw 36230 includes an internal slot 36239 defined therein configured to receive the second cam 36729. The nail firing system 36700 also includes a slider 36740, which is distally pushed by the threaded portion 36730. The slider 36740 is configured to engage a nail driver contained within the nail cartridge and to drive the nail out of the cartridge during the nail firing stroke. The I-beam portion 36720 includes a cutting edge 36750 configured to cut sutured tissue. It is worth noting that the blade 36750 is positioned proximally behind the slider 36740, ensuring that the blade 36750 does not cut unsutured tissue. Under no circumstances will the slider 36740 be attached to the threaded portion 36730, and therefore, when the threaded portion 36370 is driven proximally after the nail firing stroke, the slider 36740 will not return proximally along with the I-beam portion 36720 and the threaded portion 36370. Instead, the slider 36740 remains at the end of the nail firing stroke.

[0612] The staple firing system 37700 of the suture instrument 37000 is shown in Figures 87 to 90 Similar to the nail-firing system 36700, the nail-firing system 37700 includes an I-beam portion 37720, a threaded portion 37730, and a sliding portion 37740. The threaded portion 37730 is threadedly connected to the firing drive shaft via a threaded hole 37732, and the I-beam portion 37720 is fixedly mounted to the threaded portion 37730. (Main Reference) Figure 89The I-beam portion 37720 and the threaded portion 37730 respectively include interlocking tabs 37724 and 37734 that secure the I-beam portion 37720 to the threaded portion 37730. In at least one embodiment, the interlocking tabs 37724 and 37734 are press-fitted into an interlocking relationship. Therefore, when the threaded portion 37730 is driven axially proximal and distally by firing, the I-beam portion 37720 moves together with the threaded portion 37730.

[0613] Similar to the above, the I-beam portion 37720 and the threaded portion 37730 operate together to hold the first jaw 36220 and the second jaw 36230 in place relative to each other during the nail firing stroke. More specifically, the threaded portion 37730 includes a first cam 37739 engaging the first jaw 36220, and the I-beam portion 37720 includes a second cam 37729 engaging the second jaw 36230 during the nail firing stroke. The first jaw 36220 includes an internal slot 36229 defined therein configured to receive the first cam 37739, and similarly, the second jaw 36230 includes an internal slot 36239 defined therein configured to receive the second cam 37729. When the assembly including the I-beam portion 37720 and the threaded portion 37730 is in its proximal unfired position ( Figure 87 When the first cam 37739 is at least partially positioned in the first internal slot 36229, and the second cam 37729 is positioned in an amplifying chamber 36237 defined in the second jaw 36230, which opens to the second internal slot 36239. The amplifying chamber 36237 allows the second jaw 36230 to open and close without interference from the I-beam portion 37720. Furthermore, the I-beam portion 37720 includes a notch or recess 37722 defined therein, configured to receive a pivot pin 36242 connecting the second jaw 36230 to the first jaw 36220 when the I-beam portion 37720 is in its proximal position. The notch 37722 allows the I-beam portion 37720 to be in a very proximal position, which, as described above, provides clearance for the pivotable second jaw 36230 and also allows for a shorter end effector 37200, thus allowing the end effector 37200 to be inserted into a smaller space. In fact, when the I-beam portion 37720 is in its proximal unfired position, the sidewall of the notch 37722 can contact the pivot pin 36242.

[0614] In addition to the above, the main references are... Figure 88The nail firing system 37700 also includes a slider 37740, which is mounted to the threaded portion 37730, such that the slider 37740 travels distally and proximally with the threaded portion 37730 during the nail firing stroke and retraction stroke, respectively. In use, the main reference is... Figure 87 When the staple cartridge 37400 is positioned in the first jaw 36220, a replaceable staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 37400, is positioned, for example, above the slider 37740. The staple cartridge 37400 includes a cartridge body 37420. Figure 87 ), nails 37410 that are removably stored in compartment 37420 Figure 88 The device includes a nail actuator 37430 positioned within the housing 37420, which supports the nail 37410 during the nail firing stroke and drives the nail toward the anvil portion of the second jaw 36230. A slider 37740 includes ramps 37742 defined thereon that engage the nail actuators 37430 to lift the nail 37410 toward the second jaw 36230. Notably, the nail cartridge 37400 also includes a slider portion 37440 stored within the housing 37420 and pushed distally by the I-beam portion 37720 during the nail firing stroke. The sliding portion 37440 includes a ramp 37442 that aligns with the ramp 37742 on the sliding portion 37740 at the start of the nail firing stroke and operates in conjunction with the ramp 37742 to fully drive the nail driver 37430 and fully form or fire the nail 37410 during the nail firing stroke. As will be described in more detail below in conjunction with different embodiments, the sliding portion 37440 includes a tissue cutter 37452 that rotates between an undeployed position and a deployed position, in which the cutting edge of the tissue cutter 37452 is positioned below the platform or top surface of the housing 37420, such as Figure 87As shown, in the deployment position, the blade extends above the platform. The tissue cutter rotates about pivot 37452 via the firing assembly as the firing assembly contacts or picks up the sliding portion 37440 at the start of the nail firing stroke. Notably, during the retraction stroke, the sliding portion 37440 in the staple cartridge 37400 does not retract with the slide plate 37740. Instead, the sliding portion 37440 remains at the end of the nail firing stroke. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent 10,105,142, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER WITH PLURALITY OF CUTTINGELEMENTS”, published October 23, 2018, and U.S. Patent 9,788,835, entitled “DEVICES ANDMETHODS FOR FACILITATING EJECTION OF SURGICAL FASTENERS FROM CARTRIDGES”, published October 17, 2017, is incorporated herein by reference.

[0615] As mentioned above Figure 83 and Figure 84 As stated above, and now combined Figure 144 , Figure 144A , Figure 145 and Figure 145A The closing member 36620 of the closing drive device 36600 is driven proximally to contact the cam surface 36235 defined on the second jaw 36230 to close the second jaw 36230. Also as described above, and referring to... Figure 146During the nail firing stroke, the firing assembly, including the I-beam portion 37720 and the threaded portion 37730, is driven distally such that a cam 37739 travels within a longitudinal slot 36229 defined in the first jaw 36220, and the cam 37729 travels within a longitudinal slot 36239. In various embodiments, the second jaw 36230 is closed by a closing system 36600, which then actuates the nail firing system 37700. In such embodiments, the end effector closing operation and the nail firing operation are performed sequentially. In other embodiments, both the end effector closing system and the nail firing system are operated simultaneously. In at least one such embodiment, the end effector closing system is used to close the second jaw 36230, and then the nail firing system is used to fire the nail from the nail magazine 37400. However, during the nail firing stroke, the end effector closure system is also actuated to reduce and / or maintain the distance or tissue gap between the second jaw 36230 and the staple cartridge 37400 during the nail firing stroke. In at least one instance, the end effector jaw closure system 37600 is used to move the second jaw 36320 to an over-clamping position, i.e., the second jaw 36320 is tilted toward the staple cartridge 36400 or previously parallel to the staple cartridge during the nail firing stroke. Figures 147 to 149 The second jaw 36230 is shown in the open position. Figure 147 ), parallel clamping position ( Figure 148 ) and over-clamping position ( Figure 149 The progress of ). Figure 148 In this embodiment, the tissue gap between the proximal and distal ends of the end effector 37200, and between the bottom or tissue compression surface of the second jaw 36230 and the top surface or platform of the staple cartridge 36400, is the same or at least substantially the same. In this example, the tissue gap distance is approximately 6 mm; for example, any suitable tissue gap distance can be used. Figure 149 From this, it can be seen that the distal end 36234 of the second jaw 36230 is larger than... Figure 148 The parallel position is closer to the distal end 37424, which indicates an over-clamping position. In this example, for instance, the second jaw 36230 is over-clamped by approximately 3 degrees, but any suitable amount of over-clamping can be used. Placing the second jaw 36230 in the over-clamping position allows the second jaw 36230 to resist the opening force generated by nail deformation and / or compensate for the internal deflection of the second jaw 36230 during the nail firing stroke.

[0616] exist Figure 150The discussion described above is graphically illustrated in graph 37900. Graph 37900 includes a bottom portion 37980 depicting the movement of the closing drive 36600 and the pin-firing drive 37700, and a top portion 37990 depicting the force loads experienced by the closing drive 36600 and the pin-firing drive 37700. With respect to the top portion 37990 of Figure 37900, the force load within the closing drive 36600 is depicted by trace 36690, and the force load within the firing drive 37700 is depicted by trace 37790. In fact, trace 36690 is divided into a first portion 36690' depicting a scenario where the closing drive device 36600 is not actuated during the nail firing stroke and a second portion 36690 depicting a scenario where the closing drive device 36600 is actuated during the nail firing stroke. These two different operating scenarios of the closing drive device 36600 are reflected in two different operating scenarios within trace 37790 of the nail firing drive device 37700. More specifically, trace 37790 is divided into a first portion 37790' corresponding to the first portion 36690' of the closing drive device and a second portion 37790 corresponding to the second portion 37790. The first part 37790' depicts a high nail firing load when the closing drive 36600 is not actuated during the nail firing stroke, and the second part 37790" depicts a low nail firing load when the closing drive 36600 is actuated during the nail firing stroke. Therefore, operation of the closing drive 36600 during the nail firing stroke is also reflected in the bottom portion 37980 of graph 37900. The movement of the second jaw 36230 is depicted by motion trajectory 36680, which, similar to the above, is divided into a first part 36680' corresponding to the force trajectories 36690' and 37790' discussed above, and a second part 36680" corresponding to the force trajectories 36690" and 37790" also described above. When the closing drive 36600 is not operated during the nail firing stroke, the second jaw 36230 remains in a parallel or at least substantially parallel orientation, as depicted by motion trajectory 36680'. When the closing drive 36600 operates during the nail firing stroke, the second jaw 36230 moves to an over-clamping orientation, as depicted in motion trajectory 36680. It is noteworthy that these two operational possibilities are not reflected in motion trajectory 37780 of the nail firing drive 37700. In other words, the movement of the nail firing drive 37700 can be independent of the operation of the closing drive 36600.

[0617] In various instances, in addition to those described above, the nail firing drive 37700 can be used to close the second jaw 36230. In at least one such instance, the nail firing drive 37700 can be used to advance the firing assembly distally, such that cams 37729 and 37739 operate together to pull the second jaw 36230 to its closed position while the closing drive 36600 is operated to close the second jaw 36230. In at least one other instance, the nail firing drive 37700 can be used to advance the firing assembly distally to close the second jaw 36230 without the assistance of the closing drive 36600. Given that the closing drive 36600 and the nail firing drive 37700 can operate sequentially and / or simultaneously, the closing drive 36600 and the nail firing drive 37700 are each operated by a separate electric motor. In at least one embodiment, the suture instrument 37000 is attached to a robotic surgical instrument including a first electric motor for driving a closure drive 36600 and a second electric motor for driving a nail firing drive 37700. In at least one other embodiment, the suture instrument 37000 includes a handheld suture instrument comprising a handle including a first electric motor operably engaged with the closure drive 36600 and a second electric motor operably engaged with the nail firing drive 37700.

[0618] The end effector 49200 of the surgical instrument system 49000 is shown in Figure 151 and Figure 152 The end effector 49200 includes a first jaw 49220 and a second jaw 49230 pivotally connected to the first jaw 49220. The surgical instrument 49000 also includes an articulation joint about which the end effector 49200 is rotatable. Various articulation joints are described elsewhere herein. Various configurations or closed states of the end effector 49200 are depicted in... Figure 153The second jaw 49230 can move between an open position, a partially closed position, a parallel position, and an over-clamping position via a closing drive 49600. In the open position, there is an angle or jaw opening of approximately 30 degrees between jaws 49220 and 49230, for example. In the over-clamping position, there is an angle of approximately -1 to -3 degrees between jaws 49220 and 49230, for example. The fully open position of the second jaw 49220 establishes operating condition 49610, the closed position of the second jaw 49220 establishes operating condition 49620, the parallel position of the second jaw 49230 establishes operating condition 49630, and the over-clamping position of the second jaw 49220 establishes operating condition 49640. The closing drive 49600 includes an electric motor controlled by the control system of the surgical instrument 49000. The closing drive device 49600 includes a closing member, similar to the one described above, which retracts proximally by a closing motor to close the second jaw 49230. The distance the closing member retracts is depicted by trace 49680, and the movement of the closing member corresponds to... Figure 153 The top of the diagram depicts the closed state of the end effector 49200. It is noteworthy that once the second jaw 49230 has reached its parallel position during operating condition 49630, the closing system 49600 enters a waiting period or pauses. Similarly, the closing system 49600 enters a waiting period or pauses during operating condition 49650. The second jaw 49230 then opens during operating condition 49660.

[0619] Surgical instrument 49000 also includes a pin-firing system 49700 and a joint motion drive system 49800. The pin-firing system 49700 and the joint motion drive system 49800 are operated by the same electric motor, which shifts between a first operating state driving the joint motion drive system 49800 and a second operating state driving the pin-firing system 49700. In various instances, the electric motor includes a transmission that electronically and / or mechanically shifts to position the electric motor in its first and second operating states. During operating conditions 49610 and 49620, the electric motor is in its first operating state, and therefore, the end effector 49200 is capable of joint motion when it is open and / or closed. However, once the end effector 49200 is closed in operating condition 49630, the electric motor is shifted to its second operating state. In such instances, the end effector 49200 is locked in its joint motion position, and then the electric motor is de-energized. Sudden jerking motion of the end effector 49200 is prevented by locking it in the proper position before power is supplied to the electric motor. In other words, for example, if the end effector 49200 experiences resistance to its joint movement from tissue T, and the electric motor is de-energized before the end effector 49200 is locked in the proper position, the end effector 49200 may unexpectedly perform joint movement or disengage from joint movement. The full power condition of the joint motion system 49800 is determined by… Figure 153 Condition 49810 is described in the text, and the descent condition of the joint motion system 49800 is described by condition 49820.

[0620] Once the electric motor shifts to its second state, the nail firing drive 49700 can be actuated to perform the nail firing stroke. The nail firing drive 49700 includes a firing member that advances distally during the nail firing stroke and then retracts proximally after the nail firing stroke. The movement of the firing member is... Figure 153 The motion trajectory 49780 is depicted. Furthermore... Figure 153The diagram depicts the electric motor being energized during operating condition 49710 before the nail firing system 49700 is unlocked, and then energized again to perform the nail firing stroke during operating condition 49730. Force trace 49790 depicts the force load experienced by the firing member, showing that the firing member experiences a high load during the nail firing stroke and then a lower load during the retraction of the firing member in operating condition 49730. After the firing member has retracted, the nail firing system 49700 is locked, and then the electric motor is de-energized during operating condition 49740. Similarly, locking the firing drive before de-energizing the electric motor reduces the possibility of sudden jerking within the nail firing system 49700. At this point, the electric motor is switched back to its first operating state, the electric motor is re-energized, and the articulated motion drive system 49800 is unlocked during operating condition 49830. It is worth noting that the operation state 49830 in which the end effector 49200 can perform joint movement and the operation state 49660 in which the end effector 49200 can be opened overlap.

[0621] In addition to the above, the surgical instrument 49000 includes one or more position sensors to determine the position of the closing member of the closing system 49600 and / or the position of the second jaw 49230. The surgical instrument 49000 also includes one or more position sensors to determine the position of the firing member of the nail firing system 49700. The surgical instrument 49000 includes circuitry configured to assess the current consumed by the electric motor of the closing drive system 49600 to evaluate the force load experienced by the closing member of the closing drive system 49600. The surgical instrument 49000 also includes circuitry configured to assess the current consumed by the second electric motor used to drive the nail firing system 49700 to evaluate the firing load experienced by the firing member of the nail firing system 49700. All these sensors and circuitry communicate with the control system of the surgical instrument 49000. Using this information, the control system can determine when certain operational states have been reached. For example, when the control system determines that the second jaw 49230 has reached its parallel position, as part of operation state 49630, the control system can stop the closing motor. At this time, the control system can monitor the force load within the closing drive system 49600 until the force load drops below a threshold, and at that point determine that operation state 49630 has ended and send a signal to the user of the surgical instrument 49000 indicating that the optimal conditions for performing the nail firing stroke have been reached.

[0622] As discussed above, the electric motors used to drive the joint motion drive system 49800 and the firing drive system 49700 can switch between a first operating state and a second operating state. In at least one embodiment, the closing drive device 49600 can be used to displace the electric motor between its first and second operating states. The entire disclosures of International Patent Publication WO2015 / 153642, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION”, published October 8, 2015, and U.S. Patent 9,351,726, entitled “ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”, published May 31, 2016, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0623] The nail firing system 38700 is shown in Figures 91 to 96 The nail firing system 38700 includes a rotatable drive shaft and a firing member threadedly engaged with the drive shaft. The nail firing system 38700 also includes a drive portion 38730 and a sliding portion 38740. The sliding portion 38740 includes at least one push surface 38741 defined on its proximal side, which contacts the firing member as the firing member is advanced distally during the nail firing stroke. When the firing member moves distally to contact the sliding portion 38740, the sliding portion 38740 is also attached to the firing member by a locking arm 38734. At least initially, the sliding portion 38740 moves relative to the drive portion 38370. At this time, as described in more detail below, the sliding portion 38740 and the drive portion 38370 advance distally together, such that a ramp 38742 defined on the sliding portion 38740 fires the nail from the nail magazine during the nail firing stroke. The nail firing system 38700 also includes a tissue cutting blade 38750 that is rotatably mounted to the drive portion 38730 around a pivot pin 38752.

[0624] At the start of the nail firing stroke, the tissue cutter 38750 is in the undeployed position. Figure 94 ) and deployment location ( Figure 93 The sliding portion 38740 is movable distally relative to the drive portion 38730, at least initially, until the cam surface 38746 defined in the sliding portion 38740 contacts the tissue cutting blade 38750, as shown. Figure 93As shown, the tissue cutter 38750 is rotated upwards to its deployment position. The cam surface 38746 is curved or arcuate to facilitate rotation of the tissue cutter 38750 about the pivot pin 38752, although any suitable configuration may be used. When the tissue cutter 38750 contacts the shoulder 38748 defined on the slider portion 38740, the tissue cutter 38750 stops rotating, and instead, the distal movement of the slider portion 38740 is transmitted through the tissue cutter 38750 to the drive portion 38730. At this time, the drive portion 38730 and the slider portion 38740 translate distally together to perform the nail firing stroke while the tissue cutter 38750 is in its deployment position. In fact, the slider portion 38740 holds the tissue cutter 38750 in its deployment position during the nail firing stroke. It is worth noting that when the tissue cutter 38750 is in its deployment position ( Figure 93 The cutting edge 38751 of the tissue cutting blade 38750 extends above the sliding portion 38740, and when the tissue cutting blade 38750 is in its undeployed position ( Figure 94 It does not extend above the sliding part 38740.

[0625] At the end of the nail firing stroke or after the nail firing stroke has stopped, in addition to the above, the rotatable drive shaft rotates in the opposite direction and drives the firing member of the nail firing system 38700 in the opposite direction. When the firing member retracts, the firing member pulls the sliding portion 38740 proximally because the locking arm 38734 attaches the sliding portion 38740 to the firing member. That is, the initial retraction movement of the firing member and the sliding portion 38740 does not translate the drive portion 38730 proximally. Instead, the initial retraction movement of the sliding portion 38740 causes the tissue cutting blade 38750 to rotate downward to its undeployed position, as... Figure 94 As shown. Thereafter, refer to Figure 95 and Figure 96 The proximal movement of the sliding portion 38740 stops due to the disengagement of the sliding portion 38740 from the firing member. More specifically, the proximal extending stop arm 38744 of the sliding portion 38740 engages the cartridge body 38420 and prevents the sliding portion 38740 from retracting from the firing member. At this time, the locking arm 38734 of the sliding portion 38740 disengages from the firing member, placing the sliding portion 38740 and the drive portion 38730 in their firing position. This arrangement prevents the depleted cartridge 38400 from being reused. Therefore, the depleted cartridge 38400 must be replaced with an undepleted cartridge for reuse of the surgical instrument. That is, other depleted cartridge locking systems can be used that allow the sliding portion 38740 to return after the nail firing stroke, as long as the depleted cartridge cannot be refired.

[0626] The nail firing system 39700 is shown in Figures 97 to 103 The nail firing system 39700 includes a firing lever 39720 that can be translated distally, for example, by a nail cartridge 39400, to perform a nail firing stroke. The firing lever 39720 includes a first cam 39278 that engages a first jaw and a second cam 39279 that engages a second jaw during the nail firing stroke to hold the first and second jaws together. The nail firing system 39700 also includes a slider 39740 that is pushed distally by the firing lever 39720 during the nail firing stroke. The slider 39740 includes a proximal pushing surface 39741 that contacts a distal pushing surface 39271 on the firing lever 39720. The slider 39740 also includes a central body 39743 and a ramp 39742 extending from the central body 39743.

[0627] In addition to the above, the nail firing system 39700 also includes a tissue cutting blade 39750 and a blade retraction device 39730. The tissue cutting blade 39750 includes a base 39754 positioned within a recess 39744 defined in a slider 39740 and a blade body 39753 including a cutting edge 39751. The blade retraction device 39730 includes a locking arm 39732 that engages a shoulder 39722 defined in a firing lever 39720 and a crossbar 39733 connecting to the distal end of the locking arm 39732. (Reference) Figure 98 The sliding member 39740, the tissue cutting blade 39750, and the blade retractor 39730 are stored in the housing 39420 of the staple cartridge 39400, such that when the staple cartridge 39400 is inserted into the first jaws, the locking arm 39732 of the blade retractor 39730 is attached to the firing lever 39720, and the blade body 39753 of the tissue cutting blade 39750 is adjacent to the distal actuating surface 39723 defined on the firing lever 39720. Figure 97 At this point, the blade 39731 extends above the top surface or platform of the housing 39420, but is covered by the guide rail 39425 extending upward from the housing 39420, so that the blade 39731 is not exposed when the nail firing system 39700 is in its unfired state.

[0628] When advancing the nail firing system 39700 distally to perform the nail firing stroke, refer to Figure 99 The firing lever 39720 contacts and pushes the slider 39740 and the tissue cutting blade 39750 distally. It is worth noting that, according to reference... Figure 100The slider 39740 passes through the protrusion 39222 extending from the first jaw at the beginning of the nail firing stroke. The protrusion 39222 includes a proximal ramp allowing the slider 39740 to pass over it. Throughout the nail firing stroke, the blade retraction device 39730 extends in front of the tissue cutting blade 39750. After the nail firing stroke has been completed or otherwise stopped, refer to... Figure 101 The firing lever 39720 retracts to its unfired position. In this type of example, the blade retraction mechanism 39730 contacts the tissue cutting blade 39750 to pull the tissue cutting blade 39750 and the slider 39740 proximally. It is noteworthy that when the tissue cutting blade 39750 is pulled proximally, the base 39754 of the tissue cutting blade 39750 initially slides within the slider recess 39744, i.e., until the blade base 39754 contacts the proximal end of the slider recess 39744. At this point, the tissue cutting blade 39750 and the slider 39740 move proximally together until the slider 39740 reaches the protrusion 39222 extending from the first jaws, as shown... Figure 102 As shown. The protrusion 39222 stops the proximal movement of the slider 39740, and therefore, the continued proximal retraction of the firing lever 39720 causes the tissue cutting blade 39750 to rotate proximally until the tissue cutting blade 39750 is completely retracted below the platform of the cartridge 39420. At this point, the depleted staple cartridge 39400 can be safely removed from the first jaws and replaced by another staple cartridge.

[0629] The suture instrument 40000, including the staple cartridge 40400 and the staple firing system 40700, is shown in Figures 104 to 113 Chinese. Main reference. Figure 104 The staple firing system 40700 includes a firing lever 40720, a slider 40740 movable distally via the firing lever 40720 during the staple firing stroke, and a tissue cutter 40750 rotatably mounted to the slider 40740 about a pivot 40752. That is, the slider 40740 and the tissue cutter 40750 are positioned in the staple cartridge 40400 and are presented in front of the firing lever 40720 when the staple cartridge 40400 is placed in the suture instrument 40000. When the firing lever 40720 is advanced distally to perform the staple firing stroke, as... Figure 105 As shown, the firing lever 40720 contacts the tissue cutting blade 40750. When the firing lever 40720 is moved further distally, reference... Figure 106 and Figure 107 The firing lever 40720 prevents the tissue cutting blade 40750 from being deployed. Figure 104 and Figure 105The tissue cutter 40750 is rotated to the deployment position, wherein the cutting edge 40751 of the tissue cutter 40750 is exposed above the top or platform of the cartridge 40420 of the staple cartridge 40400. The tissue cutter 40750 includes an arcuate cam surface 40754 defined on its proximal side, which contacts an arcuate cam recess 40724 defined in the firing lever 40720, the arcuate cam recess causing the tissue cutter 40750 to rotate into its deployment position. When the tissue cutter 40750 is in its deployment position, as... Figure 107 As shown, a locking tab 40753 extending from the tissue cutter 40750 is received in a locking recess or latch 40723 defined in the firing lever 40720, which stops the rotation of the tissue cutter 40750 in its deployed position. Furthermore, when the tissue cutter 40750 is in its deployed position, a stop tab 40755 extending from the tissue cutter 40750 is positioned on the top surface 40745 of the slider 40740. In any case, at this time, refer to... Figure 108 The firing lever 40720 can push the tissue cutting blade 40740 and the slider 40750 through the firing stroke of the pin. (Reference) Figure 113 The central portion 40743 of the slider 40740 and the bottom portion of the tissue cutting blade 40750 travel within a longitudinal slot 40423 defined in the cartridge body 40420 of the staple cartridge 40400.

[0630] After the nail firing stroke or after the nail firing stroke has stopped, refer to Figures 109 to 112 The firing lever 40720 can retract to its unfired position. In such embodiments, the firing lever 40720 pulls the locking tab 40753 of the tissue cutter 40750 proximally, causing the tissue cutter 40750 to rotate toward its undeployed position. The cartridge body 40420 of the staple cartridge 40400 includes angled ridges 40425 extending into a longitudinal slot 40423, which are configured to guide the tissue cutter 40750 back to its retracted position as the firing lever 40720 retracts proximally. The tissue cutter 40750 includes pins 40752 extending from its lateral sides, which engage the ridges 40425 when the tissue cutter 40750 is rotated rearward into the longitudinal slot 40423. Furthermore, in various embodiments, the engagement between the pins 40752 and the ridges 40425 prevents the tissue cutter 40750 from fully retracting. In such embodiments, see reference... Figure 112The firing lever 40720 disengages from the tissue cutter 40750, and therefore, the firing lever 40720 does not retract the tissue cutter 40750 and the slider 40740. Instead, the tissue cutter 40750 and the slider 40740 remain in their firing positions, but the tissue cutter 40750 is in its undeployed position, which allows the depleted staple cartridge 40400 to be safely removed from the suture instrument 40000.

[0631] A suture instrument 41000 including an end effector 41200 and a nail firing system 41700 is shown in Figures 114 to 120 Chinese. Main reference. Figure 114 The end effector 41200 includes a first jaw 41220 and a second jaw 41230 rotatably mounted to the first jaw 41220. The second jaw 41230 can be in an open, unclamped position via the closure system of the suture instrument 41000. Figure 114 ) and closing, clamping position ( Figure 115 The first jaw 41220 includes a longitudinal slot defined therein, the longitudinal slot being configured to receive a portion of the nail firing system 41700. Similarly, the second jaw 41230 includes a longitudinal slot 41239 defined therein, the longitudinal slot being configured to receive a portion of the nail firing system 41700. The first jaw 41220 is configured to receive a nail cartridge 41400 therein, the nail cartridge including a cartridge body 41420, nails removably stored in a nail cavity defined in the cartridge body 41420, and nail actuators movably positioned in the cartridge body 41420, the nail actuators being configured to eject nails from the cartridge body 41420 during the nail firing stroke.

[0632] The nail firing system 41700 includes a rotatable drive shaft 41710 and a firing nut 41720 threadedly engaged with a threaded portion of the drive shaft 41710. Similar to the above, when the drive shaft 41710 rotates in a first direction, the firing nut 41720 is advanced distally, and when the drive shaft 41710 rotates in a second or opposite direction, the firing nut is retracted proximally. The nail firing system 41700 also includes a clamping member 41730, a slider 41740 movable distally during the nail firing stroke to push the nail driver and the nail toward a nail-forming recess defined in a second jaw 41230, and a tissue cutting blade 41750 rotatably mounted to the slider 41740. (Main Reference) Figure 114The clamping member 41730 is held in the second jaw or anvil 41230. More specifically, a transverse cam 41739 extending from the clamping member 41730 is included in a longitudinal slot 41239 defined in the second jaw 41230, such that the clamping member 41730 moves together with the second jaw 41230. Thus, when the second jaw 41230 is in the open position, as... Figure 114 As shown, the clamping member 41730 is in the raised position, and when the second jaw 41230 is in the closed position, as... Figure 115 As shown, the clamping member 41730 is in the lowered position. When the clamping member 41730 is in its raised position, it does not engage with the firing nut 41720. However, when the clamping member 41730 is in its lowered position, it engages with the firing nut 41720. When the clamping member 41730 is in its lowered position, the firing nut 41720 and the clamping member 41730 can be advanced distally to perform the nail firing stroke. The entire disclosures of U.S. Patent Application Publication 2016 / 0249928 entitled “SURGICAL APPARATUS”, published September 1, 2016, and U.S. Patent Publication 2018 / 0168650 entitled “CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DISPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS”, published June 21, 2018, are incorporated herein by reference.

[0633] In addition to the above, the clamping member 41730 includes a recess 41732 defined therein, the recess being configured to receive the top portion 41722 of the firing nut 41720 when the clamping member 41730 is lowered onto the firing nut 41720, such as Figure 115 As shown. Furthermore, the clamping member 41730 also includes a hook 41734, which is received in a recess 41754 defined in the tissue cutting blade 41750 when the clamping member 41730 is lowered onto the firing nut 41720. When the firing nut 41720 is advanced distally, refer to... Figure 116 and Figure 117 The firing nut 41720 pushes the clamping member 41730 distally, which abuts the slider 41740 to push the slider 41740 during the nail firing stroke. The clamping member 41730 also abuts the tissue cutter 41750 to support the tissue cutter 41750 during the nail firing stroke and to prevent the tissue cutter 41750 from rotating backward or proximally when cutting tissue. Reference is made when the drive shaft 41710 rotates in the opposite direction. Figure 118The firing nut 41720 is driven proximally, which pushes the clamping member 41730 proximally. In this example, the hook 41734 of the clamping member 41730 contacts the proximal end of the rearwardly rotating tissue cutter 41750, allowing the clamping member 41730 to disengage from the tissue cutter 41750. At this point, refer to... Figure 119 The firing nut 41720 and clamping member 41730 return to their proximal unfired positions, while the slider 41740 and tissue cutter 41750 remain behind their fired positions. It is noteworthy that when the tissue cutter 41750 is in position, the cutting edge 41751 of the tissue cutter 41750 extends above or above the platform or top of the housing 41420; however, in other embodiments, when the tissue cutter 41750 is rotated rearward, the cutting edge 41751 is completely recessed below the platform of the housing 41420. In any case, refer to... Figure 120 Once the firing nut 41720 and the clamping member 41730 have returned to their proximal unfired positions, the second jaw 41230 can be reopened.

[0634] As discussed above, the slider 41740 and the tissue cutter 41750 remain in their firing positions after the nail firing stroke or after the nail firing stroke has stopped. In some instances, the tissue cutter 41750 may not disengage from the clamping member 41730. Figure 121 An embodiment is shown that helps hold the slider 41740 and the tissue cutting blade 41750 in their firing position. Figure 121 A staple cartridge 42400 and jaws 42220 configured to receive the staple cartridge 42400 are shown. The jaws 42220 include a bottom support 42225 and two transverse upright walls 42223. The staple cartridge 42400 includes a cartridge body 42420 positioned between the transverse walls 42223 and a slider 42440 translatable within the cartridge body 42420. The cartridge body 42420 includes a staple cavity defined therein, in which staples are removably stored. The cartridge body 42420 also includes a longitudinal slot 42426 defined therein, configured to receive a central portion 42446 of the slider 42440. The cartridge body 42420 also includes protrusions 42429 extending inwardly from the sidewall of the longitudinal slot 42426, which may inhibit or prevent proximal movement of the slider 42440. More specifically, each protrusion 42429 includes a proximal ramp that allows the slider 42440 to pass through during the nail firing stroke and a distal shoulder that stops the proximal movement of the slider 42440. The protrusions 42429 are arranged longitudinally within a longitudinal slot 42426 such that the protrusions 42429 can stop the proximal movement of the slider 42440 regardless of whether the nail firing stroke has stopped.

[0635] In addition to the above, please refer to the following: Figure 121 The housing 42420 also includes longitudinal slots 42427 defined therein, configured to receive transverse pin deployment ramps 42447 of the slider 42440. Similarly, the housing 42420 also includes protrusions 42426 extending inwardly from the sidewalls of the longitudinal slots 42427, which inhibit or prevent proximal movement of the slider 42440. More specifically, each protrusion 42428 includes a proximal ramp allowing the slider 42440 to pass through during the pin firing stroke and a distal shoulder stopping proximal movement of the slider 42440. The slider 42240 includes hooks 42248 extending from the guide rail 42447, which abut the distal shoulder of the protrusion 42428 when the slider 42240 moves proximally. The protrusion 42428 is longitudinally arranged within the longitudinal slot 42427 such that the protrusion 42428 stops the movement of the slider 42440 proximally, regardless of the nail firing stroke. In addition to or instead of the above, the jaws 42220 include protrusions 42224 extending upward from the bottom support 42225, these protrusions being configured to interact with the bottom portion 42445 of the slider 42440. Each protrusion 42224 includes a proximal ramp allowing the slider 42440 to pass through during the nail firing stroke and a distal shoulder stopping the proximal movement of the slider 42440.

[0636] Surgical suture instrument 43000 is shown Figures 122 to 128 The surgical instrument 43000 includes an end effector 43200 having a first jaw 43220 and a second jaw 43230, a replaceable staple cartridge 43400 positioned in the first jaw 43220, and a staple firing drive 43700. The staple cartridge 43400 includes a cartridge body 43420 and a slider 43440 positioned within the cartridge body 43420, the slider being positioned from a proximal position during the staple firing stroke. Figure 122 Slide to the distal position. Slider 43440 includes a ramp configured to engage a staple driver within cartridge 43420 to eject staples from staple cartridge 43400. Slider 43440 also includes a tissue cutting blade 43450 fixedly attached thereto. When slider 43440 is in its proximal unfired position, refer to... Figure 122The cutting edge of the tissue cutter 43450 is positioned between transverse blade guards 43425 extending upward from the platform or top of the housing 43420. When the slider 43440 is advanced distally during the nail firing stroke, the cutting edge of the tissue cutter 43450 is exposed to patient tissue captured between jaws 43220 and 43230. As described in more detail below, the slider 43440 can be moved distally via the firing lever 43720 of the nail firing system 43700. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent 8,540,133, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE”, published September 24, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference.

[0637] When the second jaw 43230 is in the open position, the unused staple cartridge 43400 can be inserted into the first jaw 43220. When the unused staple cartridge 43400 is fully seated in the first jaw 43220, the slider 43440 of the unused staple cartridge 43400 is compressed and mounted to the depleted cartridge locking member 43290 at the bottom of the first jaw 43220. The depleted cartridge locking member 43290 includes a folding spring, for example, one side of which is mounted to the first jaw 43220 and the other side extends upward to contact the slider 43220. Once the depleted cartridge locking member 43290 has been pressed or released by the slider 43220, the firing lever 43720 can be advanced distally to engage the firing lever 43720 with the slider 43440, as shown. Figure 123 and Figure 124 As shown. More specifically, the firing lever 43720 includes a latch 43730 rotatably mounted thereon, which latches onto the slide 43440 when the firing lever 43720 is advanced distally and the depleted magazine locking member 43290 has been pushed downwards out of the slide member 43440. The latch 43730 includes a distal latch end 43731 that engages a latch recess 43441 defined in the slide member 43440, and once engaged, pushes the firing lever 43720 distally to push the slide member 43440 through the nail firing stroke. Notably, the firing lever 43720 includes a first cam 43728 configured to engage a first jaw 43220 and a second cam 43729 configured to engage a second jaw 43230 during the nail firing stroke to hold the jaws 43220 and 43230 in place relative to each other. Additionally, it is worth noting that the exhausted cartridge locking member 43290 is configured to elastically return to its locked state after the slider 43440 has been pushed to the distal side, but in this instance it does not obstruct the current nail firing stroke because the exhausted cartridge locking member 43290 has been bypassed by the unused cartridge 43400.

[0638] After the firing stroke has been completed or has stopped, the firing lever 43720 retracts to its proximal unfired position. When the firing lever 43720 retracts, refer to... Figure 125 The latch 43730 pulls the slider 43440 proximally using the firing lever 43720. When the firing lever 43720 approaches its proximal unfired position, the latch 43730 disengages from the slider 43740. More specifically, refer to... Figure 126 The latch 43730 contacts the depleted latching member 43290, which lifts the distal latch end 43731 of the latch 43730 away from the latch recess 43441 defined in the slider 43440. At this time, the slider 43440 does not retract with the firing lever 43720. In fact, in this case, the slider 43440 does not retract completely. Instead, refer to... Figure 127 The slider 43440 remains in the partially forward or firing position, wherein the slider 43440 is not seated on the depleted cartridge locking member 43290 (but is in the position where the blade of the tissue cutting knife 43750 is protected by the knife guard 43425). Therefore, the depleted cartridge locking member 43290 remains in its locked position until the depleted cartridge 43400 is removed from the first jaw 43220 and replaced with an undepleted cartridge 43400, or another suitable undepleted cartridge. In the case of advancing the firing lever 43720 distally again before replacing the depleted cartridge 43400, refer to... Figure 128 The latch 43730 will engage the staple cartridge locking member 43290, and the distal advance of the firing lever 43720 will stop. Therefore, if the unused staple cartridge 43400 is not positioned in the first jaw 43220, the unused cartridge locking member 43290 prevents the staple firing stroke of the staple firing system 43700.

[0639] In addition to or instead of those described above, any suitable depletion magazine closure may be used with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, an electronic depletion magazine closure may be used. In at least one such embodiment, the suture instrument includes an electric motor configured to drive the staple firing system 43700, a controller including a microprocessor configured to control the electric motor, and a sensor communicating with the controller configured to detect the presence of an unused staple cartridge in the first jaws 43220. For example, the sensor may be configured to detect the presence of a slider 43440 in its proximal unfired position. Notably, the depletion magazine closure 43290 of the suture instrument 43000 also serves as a missing magazine closure. If the staple cartridge is completely missing from the first jaws 43220, the depletion magazine closure 43290 prevents the staple firing stroke of the staple firing system 43700 in the same or similar manner.

[0640] Part of the suture instrument 44000 is shown in Figures 129 to 133 The suture instrument 44000 includes a staple cartridge 44400 and a staple firing drive 44700. The staple cartridge 44400 includes a cartridge body 44420 having a staple cavity 44424 and a longitudinal slot 44426 defined therein, staples removably stored in the staple cavity 44424, and a tissue cutter 44450 stored in the proximal end of the cartridge body 44420. The tissue cutter 44450 includes a portion slidably positioned in the longitudinal slot 44426 and a cutting edge 44451 extending above the cartridge body 44420. When the tissue cutter 44450 is in the proximal unfired position, reference... Figure 129 and Figure 130 The cutting edge 44451 is positioned between the blade guard 44425 extending upward from the cartridge 44420, so that the cutting edge 44451 is not exposed. When the staple cartridge 44400 is loaded into the suturing instrument 44000, the tissue cutting blade 44450 is positioned in front of the firing member 44720 of the staple firing drive 44700. At this time, there is a gap between the firing member 44720 and the tissue cutting blade 44450, and the firing member 44720 is not connected to the tissue cutting blade 44450. However, when the firing member 44720 is advanced distally, the firing member 44720 is connected to the tissue cutting blade 44450. More specifically, the tissue cutter 44450 includes proximally extending latching arms 44452 that, when the firing member 44720 contacts the tissue cutter 44450 and initially advances the tissue cutter 44450 distally, are inwardly biased by the sidewalls of the longitudinal slot 44426 into locking recesses 44722 defined on the opposite side of the firing member 44720. At this time, reference... Figure 131 The tissue cutting blade 44450 is attached to the firing member 44720, and together with the firing member 44720, the tissue cutting blade 44450 and the firing member 44720 are advanced distally during the firing stroke, as shown. Figure 132 As shown. Advancing the tissue cutting blade 44450 distally removes the cutting edge 44451 from between the blade guards 44425 and exposes the tissue cutting blade 44450 to the tissue. Furthermore, the firing member 44720 includes an integral slider 44740 configured to engage the staple driver in the staple cartridge 44400 and eject the staple from the staple cavity 44424 during the staple firing stroke.

[0641] After the nail firing stroke is completed or after the nail firing stroke has stopped, the firing member 44720 retracts to its proximal unfired position. In such an example, the firing member 44720 pulls the tissue cutting blade 44450 proximally. When the tissue cutting blade 44450 returns to its proximal unfired position, the cutting edge 44451 is positioned between the blade guards 44425. Furthermore, refer to... Figure 133When the tissue cutting blade 44450 returns to its proximal position, the tissue cutting blade 44450 is released from the firing member 44720. More specifically, refer to... Figure 130 When the tissue cutter 44450 reaches its proximal position, the latch arm 44452 elastically springs outward due to the gap provided by the recess 44422 defined in the housing 44420. Once the tissue cutter 44450 disengages from the firing member 44720, the firing member 44720 moves proximally to its unfired position. In various embodiments, the proximal movement of the tissue cutter 44450 stops when it abuts against a proximal shoulder or wall in the housing 44420. In such embodiments, the firing member 44720 can be pulled away from the latch arm 44452 if the latch arm 44452 is still partially engaged with the locking recess 44722 defined in the firing member 44720.

[0642] Figures 134 to 138 Surgical instruments 45,000 are shown. (Main reference) Figure 134 The surgical instrument 45000 includes an end effector 45200, which includes a first jaw 45220 and a second jaw or anvil 45230, the second jaw or anvil being rotatable about a pivot pin 45240 relative to the first jaw 45220 between an open, unclamped position and a closed, clamped position. The surgical instrument 45000 also includes a jaw closure system 45600 configured to close the second jaw 45230. More specifically, the jaw closure system 45600 includes a closure member 45620 movable proximally to push the second jaw 45230 downward toward its closed position. The surgical instrument 45000 also includes a nail firing system 45700, which includes a rotatable drive shaft 45710 and a firing member 45720 threadedly engaged with the drive shaft 45710, the drive shaft being movable distally during the nail firing stroke. The first jaw 45220 is configured to receive a replaceable staple cartridge 45400 therein, the replaceable staple cartridge including a cartridge body 45420, staples removably stored in the cartridge body 45420, and a staple driver configured to support and drive the staples out of the cartridge body 45420 during the staple firing stroke. The staple cartridge 45400 also includes a slider 45440 that can be moved from a proximal unfired position to a distal firing position via a firing member 45720 to push the staple driver upward within the cartridge body 45420 toward the top or platform of the cartridge body 45420 during the staple firing stroke.

[0643] In addition to the above, the surgical instrument 45000 also includes a locking assembly 45900, which is configured to prevent the second jaw 45230 from fully closing and to prevent the firing member 45720 from advancing distally through the nail firing stroke if the cartridge 45400 is missing from the first jaw 45220 or if the cartridge 45400 positioned in the first jaw 45220 has been previously fired. (Main Reference) Figure 135 and Figure 136 The locking assembly 45900 includes a frame 45910, an anvil closure locking member 45920, and a nail-firing locking member 45930. The frame 45910 is fixedly mounted to the first jaw 45220 and positioned below the pivot pin 45240, but can also be positioned in any suitable location. The anvil closure locking member 45920 is rotatably mounted to the frame 45910 about a pivot 45922 and can be in a locked position about the pivot 45922. Figure 135 ) and unlock location ( Figure 137 and Figure 138 Rotating between ) . The anvil closing locking element 45920 includes a proximal end 45924 and a distal end 45926. When the anvil closing locking element 45920 is in its locked position ( Figure 135 When the anvil closure locking member 45920 is inserted into the first jaw 45220, the proximal end 45924 of the anvil closure locking member 45920 includes a latch that releasably engages with a latch shoulder 45624 defined on the closure member 45620. In such an example, the anvil closure locking member 45920 prevents the closure member 45620 from moving proximally to close the second jaw 45230. However, when the staple cartridge 45400 is inserted into the first jaw 45220, the proximal end of the cartridge body 45420 contacts the distal end 45926 of the anvil closure locking member 45920 and rotates the anvil closure locking member 45920 to its unlocked position, as shown. Figure 137 As shown. In this type of example, the proximal end 45924 of the anvil closure locking member 45920 disengages from the closure member 45620, and the closure member 45620 can be moved proximally to close the second jaw 45230. In fact, as long as the staple cartridge 45400 is placed in the first jaw 45220, the anvil closure locking member 45920 remains unlocked, and therefore, as long as the staple cartridge 45400 is placed in the first jaw 45220, the second jaw 45230 can be opened and closed any number of times by the clinician. However, once the staple cartridge 45400 is removed, the anvil closure locking member 45920 automatically relocks. More specifically, the locking assembly 45900 includes a bias spring 45940 positioned between the anvil closing latch 45920 and the nail firing latch 45930. The bias spring is compressed when the anvil closing latch 45920 is rotated to its unlocked position, and when the nail cartridge 45400 is removed, the bias spring 45940 elastically returns the anvil closing latch 45920 to its locked position.

[0644] The stitched firing locking element 45930 is rotatably mounted to the frame 45910 about a pivot 45932, and is in a locked position about a pivot 45932. Figure 135 ) and unlock location ( Figure 137 Rotating between ) . The pin-fired locking member 45930 includes a proximal end 45934 and a distal end 45936. When the pin-fired locking member 45930 is in its locked position ( Figure 135 When the nail firing latch 45930 is engaged, the distal end 45936 of the nail firing latch 45930 includes a latch releasably engaged with the firing member 45720. In such an example, the nail firing latch 45930 prevents the firing member 45720 from moving distally to perform the nail firing stroke. However, when an unused nail cartridge 45400 is inserted into the first jaw 45220, the slide 45440 of the nail cartridge 45400 contacts the distal end 45936 of the nail firing latch 45930 and rotates the nail firing latch 45930 to its unlocked position, as... Figure 137 As shown. In this example, the distal end 45936 of the nail-firing locking member 45930 disengages from the firing member 45720 and the firing member 45720 can be moved distally to perform the nail-firing stroke. However, once the slider 45440 is advanced distally, the nail-firing locking member 45930 automatically relocks. More specifically, when the nail-firing locking member 45930 rotates to its unlocked position, the bias spring 45940, positioned between the anvil-closing locking member 45920 and the nail-firing locking member 45930, is compressed, and when the slider 45440 is advanced distally, the bias spring 45940 elastically returns the nail-firing locking member 45930 to its locked position. Therefore, when the slider 45440 is advanced distally through its nail-firing stroke via the firing member 45720, the nail-firing locking member 45930 rotates back to its locked position. At this point, it is not important because the firing member 45720 has been advanced distally, and the pin firing lock member 45930 is no longer able to stop the pin firing stroke. It is noteworthy that although the slider 45440 does not return proximally to the firing member 45720 after the pin firing stroke, and when the firing member 45720 returns to its proximal unfired position, the pin firing lock member 45930 is biased in front of the firing member 45720 by the bias spring 45940, making subsequent firing strokes of the firing member 45720 impossible until the exhausted pin magazine 45400 is replaced by the unexploded pin magazine 45400. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 458,108, filed June 30, 2019, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN RFID SYSTEM,” is incorporated herein by reference.

[0645] Staples 46400 shown Figures 139 to 143 The staple cartridge 46400 includes a cartridge body 46420, staples removably stored in the cartridge body 46420, a staple driver configured to support and drive the staples out of the cartridge body 46420, and a slider 46440 configured to push the staple driver toward the top or platform of the cartridge body 46420 during the staple firing stroke. The slider 46440 includes ramps or rails 46442 configured to engage the staple driver, these ramps or rails being slidably positioned in a longitudinal slot 46422 defined in the cartridge body 46420. The slider 46440 also includes a central portion 46446 slidably positioned in a central longitudinal slot 46426 defined in the cartridge body 46420. The slider 46440 is movable from a proximal unfired position to a distal firing position during the staple firing stroke, wherein the slider 46440 is pushed distally by the staple firing system. After the nail firing stroke or after the nail firing stroke has stopped, the nail firing system is reversed to reset the nail firing system. In such an example, the nail firing system pulls the slider 46440 proximally toward its proximal unfired position; however, the slider 46440 stops before reaching its proximal unfired position, as described in more detail below. At this point, the nail firing system disengages from the slider 46440, leaving the slider 46440 behind the partially fired position.

[0646] Main Reference Figure 139 In addition to the above, the staple cartridge 46400 also includes a used cartridge locking element 46490 rotatably mounted to the cartridge body 46420 around the pin 46425. (Main Reference) Figure 140 When the depleted lock 46490 is in its unlocked position ( Figure 140 When the depleted compartment locking member 46490 is used, it includes a tiltable portion 46497 extending into an orifice 46447 defined in the slider 46440. When the slider 46440 is pushed distally, as... Figure 141 As shown, the end wall of the orifice 46447 defined in the slider 46440 contacts the tiltable portion 46497 of the depleted compartment locking member 46490, and the depleted compartment locking member 46490 rotates to the locked position. Figure 142 (Refer to the locking position of the exhausted lock piece 46490). Figure 142The locking portion 46495 of the depleted cartridge locking member 46490 is positioned in a locking aperture 46427 defined in the cartridge body 46420. When the slider 46440 retracts after the nail firing stroke, in addition to the above, the proximal movement of the slider 46440 is blocked by the locking portion 46495, preventing the slider 46440 from returning to its proximal unfired position. Instead, the slider 46440 remains in the retracted but depleted position. When operating in conjunction with a nail firing closure in a surgical instrument, this prevents the nail firing system from pushing the slider 46440 out of its retracted depleted position. U.S. Patent 7,000,818, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE AND DISTINCTCLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS"; U.S. Patent 6,988,649, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT"; U.S. Patent 6,978,921, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN E-BEAM FIRING MECHANISM"; U.S. Patent 6,959,852, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH MULTISTROKE FIRING INCORPORATING AN ANTI-BACKUP MECHANISM"; and U.S. Patent 6,959,852, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING A FIRING MECHANISM HAVING ALINKED". The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent 6,905,057, “TRANSMISSION,” is incorporated herein by reference. In such embodiments, the firing lever of the nail-firing system must engage the slider 46440 at the start of the nail-firing stroke to pass over the nail-firing lock defined in the first jaw 46220, and if the firing lever does not engage the slider 46440 at the start of the nail-firing stroke, the firing lever abuts the nail-firing lock, and the firing lever is prevented from performing the nail-firing stroke. Due to this arrangement, a depleted cartridge cannot be accidentally reused. To reuse the suture instrument, the depleted cartridge 46400 must be removed and replaced with an undepleted cartridge 46400 or any other suitable undepleted cartridge.

[0647] refer to Figure 57The end effector of the suture instrument includes a staple cartridge 30220 and an anvil 30230. The anvil 30230 is movable relative to the staple cartridge 30220 between an open, unclamped position and a closed, clamped position. The staple cartridge 30220 includes a cartridge body 30222, which includes a proximal end 30224, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal end 30224 and the distal end. The cartridge body 30222 also includes a longitudinal slot 30228 extending from the proximal end 30224 toward the distal end, and additional staple cavities 30223 arranged longitudinally on opposite sides of the longitudinal slot 30228. Staples or any other suitable fasteners are removably stored in each staple cavity 30223.

[0648] In addition to the above, the suture instrument includes a jaw configured to receive a staple cartridge 30220. The jaw and / or the staple cartridge 30220 includes features configured to releasably retain the staple cartridge 30220 within the jaw. In various embodiments, for example, the staple cartridge 30220 includes snap-fit ​​features at the proximal end 30224 and distal end of the staple cartridge body 30222, for example, these snap-fit ​​features releasably retain the staple cartridge 30220 within the jaw. In various embodiments, see reference... Figure 58 When the staple cartridge 30220 is inserted into the jaws, the proximal end of the cartridge 30220 may not be fully seated or latched into the jaws. In such instances, the proximal end 30224 of the cartridge body 30222 may be higher than the distal end, creating a tilted platform between the proximal and distal ends. If a clinician notices this, they can correct the situation by pushing down on the proximal end 30224 of the cartridge body 30222 to fully seat the proximal end 30234. If the clinician does not notice this, the suturing instrument has a self-correcting feature that fully seats the staple cartridge 30220 into the jaws, as discussed in more detail below.

[0649] The housing 30222 includes a protrusion 30225 extending upward from a proximal end 30224 of the housing 30222. A first protrusion 30225 extends upward from a first side of a longitudinal slot 30228, and a second protrusion 30225 extends upward from a second side of the longitudinal slot 30228. Each protrusion 30225 includes an alignment post 30227 extending therefrom, the alignment post being configured to be received within an alignment slot 30237 defined in the anvil 30230 when the anvil 30230 moves to its clamping position. Figure 58As shown, if the staple cartridge 30220 is not correctly positioned in the jaws when the anvil 30230 moves to the clamping position, the anvil 30230 will contact the alignment post 30227 and push the staple cartridge 30220 downwards until it is positioned in the jaws. Conversely, if the staple cartridge 30220 is correctly positioned in the jaws, the alignment slot 30237 can receive the alignment post 30227 without pushing the staple cartridge 30220 downwards. Advantageously, this arrangement ensures that the tissue support surface 30221 of the staple cartridge 30220 and the tissue support surface 30231 of the anvil 30230 are correctly aligned when the anvil 30230 is in its clamping position. Furthermore, when the anvil 30230 is in its clamping position, this arrangement ensures that the staples stored in the staple cartridge 30220 are correctly aligned with the staple forming recess defined in the anvil 30230.

[0650] In addition to the above, see reference Figure 59 and Figure 60 The staple cartridge 30220 may also include one or more compression ribs 30229 extending from each of the protrusions 30225. The compression ribs 30229 are sized and constructed such that the anvil 30230 contacts the staple cartridge 30220, regardless of whether the staple cartridge 30220 is correctly or incorrectly positioned in the jaws. When the anvil 30230 moves to its clamping position, the anvil 30230 contacts the compression ribs 30229 and permanently deforms them. In this example, a tight interface is thus created between the staple cartridge 30220 and the anvil 30230. This arrangement takes into account various manufacturing tolerances, etc., of the staple cartridge 30220 and the anvil 30230. Furthermore, the compression ribs 30229 and the alignment post 30227 can work together to align the staple cartridge 30220 with the anvil 30230. For example, the alignment post can provide general alignment between the anvil 30230 and the cartridge 30220, while the compression rib 30229 can provide fine alignment between the anvil 30230 and the cartridge 30220.

[0651] In addition to the above, the staple cartridge 30220 and / or staple firing drive of the suture instrument includes a tissue cutter that can translate from the proximal end 30224 toward the distal end 30226 of the cartridge body 30222 during the staple firing stroke to eject staples from the cartridge body 30222. During the staple firing stroke, the cutting edge of the tissue cutter extends over the top surface 30221 of the cartridge body 30222 to cut tissue held between the staple cartridge 30220 and the anvil 30230. In various instances, if the tissue cutter is part of the staple cartridge 30220 when the staple cartridge 30220 is not positioned in the staple jaws and / or when the staple cartridge 30220 is positioned in the staple jaws and the anvil is in an open or unclamped position, the cutting edge will be exposed above the top surface 30221. With this in mind, the protrusions 30225 are sized and constructed to extend over and cover the cutting edge when the tissue cutting member is in its proximal unfired position. Furthermore, the protrusions 30225 are sized and constructed to extend longitudinally relative to the cutting edge when the tissue cutting member is in its proximal unfired position. As the tissue cutting member moves distally during the nail firing stroke, the cutting edge moves distally from between the protrusions 30225 and becomes exposed.

[0652] exist Figures 61 to 64 The image depicts a staple cartridge 31220 and anvil 31230 that are similar in many respects to staple cartridge 30220 and anvil 30230. The staple cartridge 31220 includes a cartridge body 31222, which includes a proximal end 31224, similar to the one described above, which is pushed into its fully seated position by the anvil 31230 when the anvil 31230 moves to its clamping position. The cartridge body 31222 includes a protrusion 31225 extending upward from the proximal end 31224 of the cartridge body 31222. Similarly, the protrusions 31225 are located on the flanks of the longitudinal slots 30228 and each includes an alignment post 31227 extending therefrom. When the anvil 31230 moves to the clamping position, the alignment post 31227 is configured to be received within the alignment slot 31237 defined in the anvil 31230. Alignment post 31227 also includes compression ribs 31229 extending therefrom, when anvil 31230 is over-clamped ( Figure 64 ) Exceeding the parallel position ( Figure 63 When these compression ribs are compressed by the anvil 31230, the staple cartridge 31220 is positioned even before it is positioned.

[0653] exist Figures 65 to 68The image depicts staple cartridge 32220 and anvil 32230, which are similar in many respects to staple cartridges 30220, 31220 and anvils 30230, 31230. Staple cartridge 32220 includes a cartridge body 32222, which includes a proximal end 32224, similar to the image above, which is pushed into its fully seated position by the anvil 32230 when the anvil 32230 moves to its clamping position. The cartridge body 32222 includes a cam 32227 extending upward from the proximal end 32224 of the cartridge body 32222. Similar to the image above, the cam 32227 is located on the flanks of the longitudinal slot 30228 and each includes an arcuate profile. Cam 32227 is configured to engage with corresponding cam 32237 extending from anvil 32230 when anvil 32230 moves to clamping position, so as to place staple cartridge 32220 in the event that staple cartridge 32220 has not yet been placed.

[0654] See Figure 71 and Figure 72 The staple cartridge 48400 includes a cartridge body, which includes a staple cavity 48425 defined therein. (Reference) Figure 69 and Figure 70 The anvil 48230 is rotatably mounted to the jaws supporting the nail cartridge 48400 around the pivot pin 48240. The anvil 48230 includes nail-forming recesses 48235 defined therein, which align with the nail cavity 48245 when the anvil 48230 is closed. More specifically, each nail-forming recess 48235 is aligned with a corresponding nail cavity 48245 such that nails ejected from the nail cavity 48245 are deformed by their corresponding forming recess 48235. In at least one embodiment, each forming recess 48235 includes two forming cups, each formed cup being configured to deform the legs of the nail.

[0655] Staples 10000 shown Figure 18 The staple cartridge 10000 also includes a platform surface 10010 and a base 10015. A sidewall 10020 extends between the platform surface 10010 and the base 10015. The staple cartridge 10000 also includes an elongated slot 10006 extending from a proximal end 10002 toward a distal end 10004. A longitudinal axis is defined along the staple cartridge 10000 by the elongated slot 10006. The staple cartridge 10000 includes staple cavities defined therein. The staple cavities are arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first row of staple cavities 10100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 10006. A second row of staple cavities 10200 extends adjacent to the first row of staple cavities 10100 on the same side of the elongated slot 10006. A third row of staple cavities 10300 extends adjacent to the second row of staple cavities 10200.

[0656] The nail driver 10500 is movably positioned within nail cavities 10100, 10200, and 10300. More specifically, the nail driver 10500 is configured to move from a non-firing position to a firing position during the nail firing stroke. Each nail driver 10500 includes a first nail support portion 10510, a second nail support portion 10520, and a third nail support portion 10530. The first nail support portion 10510 supports nails from a first longitudinal row nail cavity 10100, the second nail support portion 10520 supports nails from a second longitudinal row nail cavity 10200, and the third nail support portion 10530 supports nails from a third longitudinal row nail cavity 10300. A base 10550 connects the three nail support portions 10510, 10520, and 10530 to each other.

[0657] In various instances, the staple cartridge includes components, such as a tray positioned, for example, below and / or at the bottom of the staple cartridge, to prevent elements, such as staple drivers and / or staples, from disengaging from the staple cartridge during storage and / or handling. In instances where such additional components are undesirable, the staple cartridge may include one or more driver holding features, as discussed in more detail herein. In addition to holding the staple driver within the staple cartridge, the driver holding features can also be used to hold the staple driver in its unfired position before the staple firing stroke. Holding the staple driver in its unfired position before the staple firing stroke can facilitate a uniform and / or successful staple firing stroke. In such instances, the driver holding features discussed herein prevent the staple driver from unnecessary movement in any direction within the staple chamber.

[0658] Now for reference Figures 18 to 22 The staple cartridge 10000 includes a plurality of locking arms 10022 configured to function as actuator holding features. The locking arms 10022 are defined within an outer wall 10020 of the staple cartridge 10000. The locking arms 10022 are longitudinally spaced apart from each other along the length of the staple cartridge 10000. Each locking arm 10022 includes a resilient engagement portion configured to interface with a staple actuator to hold the staple actuator in its unfired position. Figure 19 In the illustrated embodiment, each locking arm 10022 includes a protrusion extending from the third longitudinal row into the nail cavity 10300; however, the locking arm 10022 may extend into any suitable nail cavity. The nail driver 10500 in... Figure 21 and Figure 22The nail actuator 10500 is shown in its unfired position. The nail actuator 10500 includes a recess and / or notch 10535 defined in a third nail support portion 10530. When the nail actuator 10500 is in its unfired position, the notch 10535 interfaces with and / or receives a protrusion of the locking arm 10022 of the nail cartridge 10000. The interface between the nail actuator 10500 and the locking arm 10022 provides actuator retention capability to the nail cartridge 10000. Additional actuator retention features are described in more detail herein.

[0659] Similar in many ways to the stapling 10000, the stapling 10000 is shown below. Figure 23 The staple cartridge 10000' includes windows 10025 defined in a sidewall 10020, wherein the windows 10025 are longitudinally spaced apart from each other. The windows 10025 are positioned at the same height as each other along the staple cartridge 10000. Similar in many respects to the staple actuator 10500', the staple actuator 10500' is configured to be movably received within the staple cartridge 10000'. Figure 24 The illustrated staple driver 10500' includes a driver retaining member and / or protrusion 10535' that extends elastically from the sidewall of the third staple support portion 10530' toward the sidewall 10020 of the staple cartridge 10000'. In other words, the portion 10530' of the staple driver 10500' extending from the third longitudinal row into the staple cavity 10300 includes a driver retaining member and / or protrusion 10535' that extends from the sidewall 10020 of the third staple support portion 10530' toward the staple cartridge 10000'.

[0660] The actuator retaining member 10535' is resiliently connected to the base 10550' of the nail actuator 10500'. When the nail actuator 10500' is in its unfired position, as... Figure 23As shown, the actuator retaining member 10535' extends through a window 10025 defined in the staple cartridge 10000'. The protrusion of the actuator retaining member 10535 through the window 10025 prevents the staple actuator 10500' from moving freely in any direction within the staple cavities 10100, 10200, 10300. In other words, an external force must be applied to the staple actuator 10500' and / or the staple cartridge 10000' to bias the protrusion 10535' out of the window 10025. The actuator retaining member 10535' includes an upper surface with a gradually tapered and / or ramped cross-section configured to facilitate disengagement of the actuator retaining member 10535' from the window 10025 during the staple firing stroke. When an upward force, such as a force applied by the advancing firing member, is applied to the staple actuator 10500', the actuator retaining member 10535' is biased away from the sidewall 10020 of the staple cartridge 10000'. Then, the driver retainer 10535' disengages from the window 10025, and the pin driver 10500' is free to translate from the non-firing position toward the firing position.

[0661] In various instances, window 10025 is positioned at different heights along the side wall 10020 of staple cartridge 10000'. This window arrangement facilitates the ability to hold the staple driver at different heights within staple cartridge 10000'.

[0662] Figure 25 and Figure 26 The image depicts a staple cartridge 11000, which is similar in many respects to a staple cartridge 10000. The staple cartridge 11000 includes a platform surface 11010 and a base 11015. The staple cartridge 11000 also includes an elongated slot 11006 extending from a proximal end 11002 toward a distal end 11004. A longitudinal axis is defined along the staple cartridge 11000 by the elongated slot 11006. The staple cartridge 11000 includes staple cavities defined therein. The staple cavities are arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first row of staple cavities 11100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 11006. A second row of staple cavities 11200 extends adjacent to the first row of staple cavities 11100 on the same side of the elongated slot 11006. A third row of staple cavities 11300 extends adjacent to the second row of staple cavities 11200.

[0663] The nail actuator 11500 is movably positioned within nail cavities 11100, 11200, and 11300. Each nail actuator 11500 is configured to move from a non-firing position to a firing position during the nail firing stroke. Figure 27As shown, the nail driver 11500 includes a first nail support portion 11510, a second nail support portion 11520, and a third nail support portion 11530. The first nail support portion 11510 supports nails from a first longitudinal row nail cavity 11100, the second nail support portion 11520 supports nails from a second longitudinal row nail cavity 11200, and the third nail support portion 11530 supports nails from a third longitudinal row nail cavity 11300. A base 11550 connects the three nail support portions 11510, 11520, and 11530 to each other.

[0664] The staple cartridge 11000 includes an outer wall 11020 that serves as a sidewall for staple cavities within the third longitudinal row 11300. The outer wall 11020 includes a resiliently engaged portion including a protrusion 11025 defined thereon. The staple cartridge 11000 also includes an inner wall 11030 that serves as a sidewall for staple cavities within the first longitudinal row 11100. The inner wall 11030 includes a resiliently engaged portion including a protrusion 11035 defined thereon. The protrusions 11025 and 11035 of the staple cartridge 11000 are configured to engage each staple actuator 11500 as the staple actuator 11500 moves within the staple cavity. Figure 26 and Figure 27 As shown, the pawl and / or notch 11515 are defined in the first nail support portion 11510 and the third nail support portion 11530. In various embodiments, the pawl and / or notch 11515 may be defined on any suitable portion of the nail driver 11500 (such as, for example, the second nail support portion 11520).

[0665] The nail driver 11500 is shown inserted into the base 11015, located in Figure 26The right side of the elongated slot 11006 of the staple cartridge 11000 is shown. The insertion path of the staple driver 11500 is blocked by the resilient engagement portions 11025 and 11035 of the staple cartridge 11000. In other words, the resilient engagement portions 11025 and 11035 prevent the staple driver 11500 from being inserted into the staple cartridge 11000 without applying external force. When an upward force is applied to the staple driver 11500, the first staple support portion 11510 contacts the inner wall 11030 of the staple cartridge 11000. The contact between the first staple support portion 11510 and the inner wall 11030 biases at least a portion of the inner wall 11030 away from the staple driver 11500 and toward the elongated slot 11006. Similarly, when the staple driver 11500 is loaded into the staple cartridge 11000, the third staple support portion 11530 contacts the outer wall 11020 of the staple cartridge 11000. The contact between the third nail support portion 11530 and the outer wall 11020 biases at least a portion of the outer wall 11020 away from the nail driver 11500 and away from the elongated slot 11006. When the inner wall 11030 and the outer wall 11020 are biased away from the nail cavity, the insertion path of the nail driver 11500 is cleared, and the nail driver 11500 is able to be loaded into the nail cartridge 11000 and held in the unfired position.

[0666] The nail driver 11500 is shown in the unfired position, located... Figure 26 The left side of the elongated slot 11006 of the staple cartridge 11000 is shown. It is noteworthy that the resiliently engaged portions of the inner wall 11030 and the outer wall 11020 are in an unbiased and / or natural configuration. The staple driver 11500 remains in the unfired position when the protrusions 11025, 11035 defined on the resiliently engaged portions are received by the pawls and / or recesses 11515 defined in the first staple support portion 11510 and the third staple support portion 11530 of the staple driver 11500. In other words, the interface between the protrusions 11025, 11035 of the staple cartridge 11000 and the recesses and / or pawls 11515 of the staple driver 11500 prevents the staple driver 11500 from moving out of the unfired position in either direction.

[0667] As discussed in more detail herein, the actuator retaining feature can be integrally formed within the staple cartridge. Staple cartridges such as the staple cartridge 11900 can be manufactured using injection molding processes. Figure 29 As shown, the top mold 11800 and the bottom mold 11700 are positioned in a manner that allows the injection mold to include a staple cartridge 11900 with a driver holding feature. Similar to the staple cartridge 11000, the staple cartridge 11900 includes three longitudinal staple-laying cavities extending along each side of an elongated slot.

[0668] like Figure 29 and Figure 30As shown, the bottom mold 11700 includes a central protrusion 11750 extending from the base, wherein the central protrusion 11750 is configured to define an elongated slot in the staple cartridge 11900. The bottom mold 11700 also includes three protrusions extending from the base along each side of the central protrusion 11750. A first protrusion 11710 extends from the base a first distance adjacent to the central protrusion 11750 and is configured to define a staple cavity within a first longitudinal row. A second protrusion 11720 extends from the base a second distance adjacent to the first protrusion 11710 and is configured to define a staple cavity within a second longitudinal row. A third protrusion 11730 extends from the base a third distance adjacent to the second protrusion 11720 and is configured to define a staple cavity within a third longitudinal row. The third distance is shorter than the first and second distances.

[0669] The top mold 11800 includes a central protrusion 11850 extending from the base, wherein the central protrusion 11850 is configured to align with a central protrusion 11750 of the bottom mold 11700 to define an elongated slot in the staple cartridge 19000. The top mold 11800 also includes three protrusions extending from the base along each side of the central protrusion 11850. A first protrusion 11810 extends from the base a first distance adjacent to the central protrusion 11850. The first protrusion 11810 aligns with and / or engages with a first protrusion 11710 of the bottom mold 11700 to define a first longitudinal staple pack cavity. A second protrusion 11820 extends from the base a second distance adjacent to the first protrusion 11810. The second protrusion 11820 aligns with and / or engages with a second protrusion 11720 of the bottom mold 11700 to define a second longitudinal staple pack cavity. The third protrusion 11830 extends a third distance from the base adjacent to the second protrusion 11820. The third protrusion 11830 aligns with and / or engages with the third protrusion 11730 of the bottom mold 11700 to define a third row of nails cavity and a driver retaining feature. The third distance is greater than the first distance and the second distance. In other words, because the first protrusion 11710 and the second protrusion 11720 are higher than the third protrusion 11730 of the bottom mold 11700, the first protrusion 11710 and the second protrusion 11720 of the bottom mold 11700 define most of the first longitudinal row of nails cavity and the second longitudinal row of nails cavity. Conversely, because the third protrusion 11830 is higher than the first protrusion 11820 and the second protrusion 11830 of the top mold 11800, the third protrusion 11830 of the top mold 11800 defines most of the third longitudinal row of nails cavity.

[0670] The third protrusion 11730 extends a short distance from the base of the bottom mold 11700 to form an actuator retaining feature within the staple cartridge 11900. While the ends of the first protrusions 11710, 11810 and the second protrusions 11720, 11820 have rectangular profiles, the ends of the third protrusions 11730, 11830 have profiles with a gradient and / or ramp. The gradient and / or ramp profile of the third protrusion 11730 of the bottom mold 11700 is complementary to the gradient and / or ramp profile of the third protrusion 11830 of the top mold 11800. The gradient profile allows for the definition of a resiliently engaged portion, which includes a locking protrusion 11925 on the outer wall of the staple cartridge 11900, wherein the locking protrusion 11925 extends into the staple cavity. In the depicted embodiment, a locking protrusion 11925 extends from the third longitudinal row into the staple cavity. The locking protrusion 11925 is positioned in a manner that interfaces with the staple driver to hold the staple driver in its unfired position. The locking protrusion 11925 is configured to prevent unwanted movement of the staple driver within the staple cavity, such as movement of the staple driver from its unfired position toward the fired position and / or disengagement from the staple cartridge 19000.

[0671] Figure 28 A staple driver 11600 for use with a staple cartridge 11900 is shown. The staple driver 11600 includes a first staple support portion 11610 configured to be positioned in a staple cavity from a first longitudinal row, a second staple support portion 11620 configured to be positioned in a staple cavity from a second longitudinal row, and a third staple support portion 11630 configured to be positioned in a staple cavity from a third longitudinal row. The third staple support portion 11630 includes a flange 11634. In various embodiments, the bottom section 11636 of the third staple support portion 11630 is removed to form the flange 11634. The flange 11634 includes a flat surface that directly abuts a flat surface formed on each locking protrusion 11925 of the staple cartridge 11900 when the staple driver 11600 is in the unfired position. This interface prevents the staple driver 11600 from being disengaged from the staple cartridge 11900 via the base of the staple cartridge 11900. Each locking protrusion 11925 also includes a ramped surface to facilitate translation of the nail driver 11600 from its unfired position toward its fired position upon contact with the firing member during the nail firing stroke. In the depicted embodiment, the force required to move the nail driver 11600 from its unfired position toward its fired position is less than the force required to move the nail driver 11600 from its unfired position toward the base of the nail cartridge 11900.

[0672] Figures 31A to 32BVarious components of a staple cartridge 12000 during the staple firing stroke are shown. The staple cartridge 12000 includes a cartridge body 12005 having a platform surface 12010. A staple cavity 12020 is defined within the cartridge body 12005. Stabs are removably positioned within the staple cavity 12020. Stab actuators 12200 are positioned within the staple cavity 12020 to support staples, and these actuators are configured to drive the staples toward an anvil positioned relative to the staple cartridge 12000 during the staple firing stroke. Each of the staple actuators 12200 is configured to support a staple on a staple support surface 12230 defined thereon. Each staple actuator 12200 includes a proximal end 12202 and a distal end 12204. The proximal end 12202 of each staple actuator 12200 includes a mating surface or ramp 12210 with a gradient cross-section. Figures 31A to 32B The relationship between the firing member 12100 and the nail actuator 12200 of the nail cartridge 12000 is depicted as the firing member 12100 moves from a proximal position to a distal position during the nail firing stroke. When the firing member 12100 is in the proximal position, the firing member 12100 is proximal to the nail actuator 12200, and when the firing member 12100 is in the distal position, the firing member 12100 is distal to the nail actuator 12200.

[0673] The nail driver 12200 is configured to translate upward within the nail cavity 12020 during the nail firing stroke. As discussed in more detail herein, the nail driver 12200 is in an unfired position or configuration during the nail firing stroke before being contacted by the firing member 12100. Figure 31A A firing member 12100 is shown advancing from its proximal position toward its distal end position. Due to the distal movement of the firing member 12100, the distal end 12104 of the firing member 12100 contacts the tapered engagement surface 12210 of the nail driver 12200. The contact between the tapered engagement surface 12210 and the distal end 12104 of the firing member 12100 causes the nail driver 12200 to begin upward driving in a first direction 1. The firing member 12100 includes a ramp surface 12210 configured to facilitate upward translation of the nail driver 12200 as the firing member 12100 is advanced distally through the nail cartridge 12000.

[0674] When the nail driver 12200 is driven upward by the firing member 12100, the nail driver 12200 eventually reaches the fully fired position. Figure 31B In the diagram, the nail actuator 12200 is shown in the fully fired position. In the fully fired position, at least a portion of the nail actuator 12200 extends over, or is over-driven relative to, the platform surface 12010 of the nail cartridge 12000. Figure 31BAs shown, when the nail driver 12200 is in the fully fired position, the firing member 12100 is able to translate proximally and distally with almost no contact with the nail driver 12200. Therefore, when the nail driver 12200 is held in its fully fired position, the nail driver 12200 does not prevent the firing member 12100 from translating along the firing path and / or retraction path.

[0675] Once the nail actuator 12200 reaches its fully fired position, the firing member 12100 continues to translate distally until it passes the nail actuator 12200. As the firing member 12100 translates distally beyond the nail actuator 12200, in some instances, the nail actuator 12200 may drop downwards in the second direction 2 from its fully fired position to a position somewhere between its unfired and fully fired positions, i.e., an elevated position. Figure 32A In the diagram, the nail driver 12200 is shown in the raised position. When the nail driver 12200 is in the raised and / or held position, the nail driver 12200 is positioned above the nail driver 12200 in its unfired position, but below the nail driver 12200 in its fully fired position. In various instances, for example, when the nail driver 12200 is in the raised position, the nail driver 12200 does not extend above the platform surface 12010 of the nail cartridge 12000.

[0676] In many embodiments, the firing member 12100 retracts proximally from its distal position after the nail firing stroke has been completed or otherwise stopped. However, if one or more nail drivers 12200 have fallen toward the unfired position, the firing member 12100 is prevented from retracting beyond the fallen nail driver 12200. As discussed in more detail herein, proximal retraction of the firing member 12100 is not prevented when the nail driver 12200 is in its raised position and / or its fully fired position.

[0677] like Figure 32BAs shown, the proximal end 12102 of the firing member 12100 includes an angled engagement surface or ramp 12120. When the firing member 12100 retracts proximally, the angled engagement surface 12120 of the firing member 12100 contacts the distal end 12204 of the nail actuator 12200. The contact between the angled engagement surface 12120 of the firing member 12100 and the distal end 12204 of the nail actuator 12200 causes the nail actuator 12200 to be driven upward again in the first direction 1. The nail actuator 12200 is driven to the fully fired position or allows the firing member 12100 to retract proximally beyond any suitable position. In the depicted embodiment, a portion of the nail actuator 12200 moves above the platform surface 12010 of the nail cartridge 12000 to allow the firing member 12100 to retract. Once the firing member 12100 retracts to the nail driver 12200, the nail driver 12200 can retract toward the unfired position. Various methods of holding the nail driver in the fully fired position and / or raised position are discussed in more detail herein.

[0678] The stinger 13000 is depicted in Figure 33 The staple cartridge 13000 includes an elongated slot 13006 extending from a proximal end 13002 toward a distal end 13004. The elongated slot 13006 defines the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge 13000. Staple cavities are defined in the staple cartridge 13000 and are arranged in longitudinal rows. A first longitudinal row of staple cavities 13100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 13006. A second longitudinal row of staple cavities 13200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal row of staple cavities 13100 on the same side of the elongated slot 13006. A third longitudinal row of staple cavities 13300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal row of staple cavities 13200. The staple cavities 13100 in the first longitudinal row are laterally aligned with the staple cavities 13300 in the third longitudinal row. The staple cavities 13200 in the second longitudinal row are laterally offset from the staple cavities 13100 and 13300 in the first and third longitudinal rows, respectively.

[0679] As discussed in more detail herein, the staple cartridge 13000 includes a protrusion 13400 extending upward and / or toward the anvil from the platform surface 13010. The protrusion 13400 surrounds at least a portion of the staple cavities 13100, 13200, 13300 and serves, for example, to prevent tissue movement relative to the platform surface 13010 and / or to support the staple when it is ejected during the staple firing stroke.

[0680] The nail driver 13500 is movably positioned within the nail chamber and is configured to support the nail during the nail firing stroke and drive the nail toward an anvil positioned relative to the nail magazine 13000. Figure 34As shown, each nail driver 13500 includes a first nail support portion 13510, a second nail support portion 13520, and a third nail support portion 13530. The first nail support portion 13510 is positioned within a nail cavity 13100 to support and drive nails in a first longitudinal row, the second nail support portion 13520 is positioned within a nail cavity 13200 to support and drive nails in a second longitudinal row, and the third nail support portion 13530 is positioned within a nail cavity 13300 to support and drive nails in a third longitudinal row. The three nail support portions 13510, 13520, and 13530 are connected together via a base 13550 of the nail driver 13500. Although the depicted nail driver 13500 includes three nail support portions, the nail driver may include any suitable number of nail support portions, such as, for example, one nail support portion or two nail support portions.

[0681] The nail driver 13500 is configured to translate within the nail cavity during the nail firing stroke. As discussed in more detail herein, during the nail firing stroke, the nail driver 13500 is in the unfired position before being contacted by the firing member. The nail driver 13500 eventually reaches the fully fired position as it is driven upward by the firing member. Once the nail driver 13500 reaches its fully fired position, the firing member continues to translate distally until it is no longer in contact with the nail driver 13500. When the firing member has translated distally beyond the nail driver 13500, the nail driver 13500 may fall to an elevated position between the unfired and fully fired positions.

[0682] To maintain the nail drivers at least in their raised position after the firing members are no longer in contact with them, the nail cartridge 13000 includes driver retaining members 13050 extending into and / or over the nail chambers to engage the nail drivers 13500 and retain them in their raised and / or fully fired positions. Each driver retaining member 13050 extends from the cartridge body 13008 into a separate nail chamber 13200 within the second longitudinal row of nail chambers. Figure 35 In the depicted embodiment, the actuator retaining member 13050 is positioned between protrusions 13400 surrounding a portion of the nail cavity 13200. An aperture 13525 is defined in a portion of the nail actuator 13500 configured to receive the actuator retaining member 13050. As the depicted actuator retaining member 13050 extends from the second longitudinal row into the nail cavity 13200, the aperture 13525 is defined in a second nail support portion 13520.

[0683] The orifice 13525 may be located on any suitable portion of the nail driver 13500. In various embodiments, the nail driver 13500 may have more than one orifice 13525 defined therein. The orifice 13525 may be formed within the nail driver 13500 in any suitable manner. In various embodiments, the orifice 13525 is created by an injection molding pin.

[0684] In various instances, the second nail support portion 13520 includes additional material in addition to the first nail support portion and the third nail support portions 13510, 13530, to account for the orifice 13525 defined therein. For example, refer to... Figure 34 The first nail support portion 13510 includes a first end 13512 and a second end 13514. The first end 13512 is configured to support a first leg of a nail, and the second end 13514 is configured to support a second leg of a nail. The first end 13512 and the second end 13514 are connected to each other via an intermediate portion 13516. The intermediate portion 13516 is positioned at a first distance below the first end 13512 and the second end 13514. When the nail is supported by the first nail support portion 13510, the intermediate portion 13516 does not contact the nail. The second nail support portion 13520 includes a first end 13522 and a second end 13524. The first end 13522 is configured to support a first leg of a nail, and the second end 13524 is configured to support a second leg of a nail. The first end 13522 and the second end 13524 are connected to each other via an intermediate portion 13526. The middle portion 13526 is positioned at a second distance below the first end 13522 and the second end 13524. The second distance is smaller than the first distance. In other words, the middle portion 13526 of the second nail support portion 13520 is larger to accommodate the orifice 13525 defined therein.

[0685] The actuator retaining member 13050 includes a flexible tab 13252 and a protrusion 13255 extending from the tab 13252. When the firing member drives the nail driver 13500 from an unfired position toward a fully fired position, the nail driver 13500 causes the tab 13252 of the actuator retaining member 13050 to elastically bend out of the drive path of the nail driver 13500. In other words, the upward force applied to the nail driver 13500 by the firing member is strong enough to bias the actuator retaining member 13050 out of the drive path of the nail driver 13500, thereby allowing the nail driver 13500 to reach the fully fired position. The protrusion 13255 is configured to be received by the orifice 13525 of the nail driver 13500 when the nail driver 13500 is in and / or near its fully fired position. In the depicted embodiment, when the nail driver 13500 is in the fully fired position, the orifice 13525 is positioned above the protrusion 13255 of the driver retaining member 13050. As the firing member translates distally beyond the nail driver 13500, the nail driver 13500 can begin to retract toward the unfired position. In such an example, the tab 13252 of the driver retaining member 13050 springs back into the drive path of the nail driver 13500, such that the protrusion 13255 of the driver retaining member 13050 is engaged and / or otherwise engaged with the orifice 13525 of the nail driver 13500. When the protrusion 13255 is received by the orifice 13525, the driver retaining member 13050 holds the nail driver 13500 in its raised position. (See also: Regarding...) Figures 31A to 32B In more detail, when the nail driver 13500 is locked in this position, the nail driver 13500 does not prevent the firing member from retracting proximally beyond the nail driver 13500. The protrusion 13255 and the orifice 13525 may be configured to and / or arranged to hold the nail driver 13500 in its fully fired position, or alternatively, the protrusion 13255 and the orifice 13525 may be configured to and / or arranged to hold the nail driver 13500 in an elevated position between the unfired position and its fully fired position.

[0686] Now go to Figure 36A and Figure 36BThe image depicts a staple cartridge 14000 including a platform surface 14010 and an elongated slot 14006 extending from a proximal end 14002 toward a distal end 14004. The platform surface 14010 of the staple cartridge 14000 is circular and / or curved. In other words, the platform surface 14010 varies laterally relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 14006. The highest point of the platform surface 14010 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 14006. The staple cartridge 14000 also includes staple cavities arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first longitudinal row staple cavity 14100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 14006. A second longitudinal row staple cavity 14200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal row staple cavity 14100, and a third longitudinal row staple cavity 14300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal row staple cavity 14200. The staple cartridge 14000 also includes a protrusion extending above the platform surface 14010. The protrusions depicted on the staple cartridge 14000 are in the form of recessed extensions. These recessed extensions support the legs of the staples above the platform of the staple cartridge. An embodiment in which the protrusions are not recessed extensions is contemplated. A first protrusion 14150 surrounds a portion of each staple cavity 14100 in a first longitudinal row, a second protrusion 14250 surrounds a portion of each staple cavity 14200 in a second longitudinal row, and a third protrusion 14350 surrounds a portion of each staple cavity 14300 in a third longitudinal row. These protrusions are connected to each other. For example, the first protrusion 14150 is connected to the second protrusion 14250 and / or the second protrusion 14250 is connected to the third protrusion 14350. In other instances, the protrusions are separate and distinct from each other and are not connected to each other except through the platform surface 14010.

[0687] The protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 comprise a square or substantially square geometry. In other words, the protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 surround a portion of the nail cavity in a manner that mimics a square geometry. Furthermore, the curves and / or edges of the protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 are not sharp. In the depicted embodiment, the first protrusion 14150 surrounds the nail cavity 14100 entirely from within the first longitudinal row. The second protrusion 14250 surrounds approximately three-quarters of the nail cavity 14200 from within the second longitudinal row. The third protrusion 14350 consists of two protrusions surrounding the proximal end 14302 and distal end 14304 of the nail cavity 14300 from within the third longitudinal row, wherein the two protrusions are not connected. Overall, the third protrusion 14350 surrounds approximately half of the nail cavity 14300. In various instances, the first protrusion 14150 surrounds the nail cavity by a greater amount than the second protrusion 14250 and the third protrusion 14350. As depicted in the embodiments, the extent to which the protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 surround a particular nail cavity varies based on the lateral position of the nail cavity relative to the elongated slot 14006. Although the depicted protrusions within a particular longitudinal row of nail cavities are identical, it is conceivable that the protrusions within the same longitudinal row may vary based on the position of the particular nail cavity relative to the proximal end 14002 and / or the distal end 14004 of the nail cartridge 14000.

[0688] Figure 36A and Figure 36B The protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 shown extend from the platform surface 14010 to different heights. More specifically, the height of each protrusion 14150, 14250, and 14350 varies based on the position of the protrusions 14150, 14250, and 14350 and / or the nail cavities 14100, 14200, and 14300 relative to the elongated slot 14006. In various instances, each protrusion 14150, 14250, and 14350 includes a different height; however, any suitable height is contemplated to achieve a particular tissue effect. In the depicted embodiment, the height of the first protrusion 14150 is greater than the height of the second protrusion 14250, and the height of the second protrusion 14250 is less than the height of the third protrusion 14350.

[0689] Figure 37A and Figure 37BThe image depicts a staple cartridge 14500 including a platform surface 14510 and an elongated slot 14506 extending from a proximal end 14502 toward a distal end 14504. The height of the platform surface 14510 of the staple cartridge 14500 is circular and / or curved. In other words, the platform surface 14510 varies laterally relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 14506. The highest point of the platform surface 14510 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 14506. The staple cartridge 14500 also includes staple cavities arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first longitudinal row staple cavity 14600 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 14506. A second longitudinal row staple cavity 14700 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal row staple cavity 14600, and a third longitudinal row staple cavity 14800 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal row staple cavity 14700. The staple cartridge 14500 also includes a protrusion extending above the platform surface 14510. The protrusions depicted on the staple cartridge 14500 take the form of recessed extensions. These recessed extensions support the legs of the staples above the platform of the staple cartridge. An embodiment in which the protrusions are not recessed extensions is contemplated. A first protrusion 14650 surrounds a first portion of each staple cavity 14600 in a first longitudinal row, a second protrusion 14750 surrounds a second portion of each staple cavity 14700 in a second longitudinal row, and a third protrusion 14850 surrounds a third portion of each staple cavity 14800 in a third longitudinal row. In various embodiments, these protrusions are connected to each other. However, in… Figure 37A and Figure 37B In the implementation scheme described herein, these protrusions are separate from each other and distinct.

[0690] Protrusions 14650, 14750, and 14850 each comprise an elongated or diamond-like geometry. Protrusions 14650, 14750, and 14850 surround portions of the nail cavity in a manner closely conforming to the boundaries of the cavity, which are also elongated and diamond-like shapes. Furthermore, the curves and / or edges of protrusions 14650, 14750, and 14850 form acute and / or obtuse angles. In the depicted embodiment, the first protrusion 14650 surrounds approximately three-quarters of the nail cavity 14600 from within the first longitudinal row. The second protrusion 14750 consists of two protrusions surrounding the proximal end 14702 and distal end 14704 of the nail cavity 14700 from within the second longitudinal row, wherein the two protrusions are not connected. Overall, the second protrusion 14750 surrounds approximately half of the nail cavity 14700. Similarly, the third protrusion 14850 is formed by two protrusions surrounding the proximal end 14802 and distal end 14804 of the nail cavity 14800 from within the third longitudinal row, wherein the two protrusions are not connected. Generally, the third protrusion 14850 surrounds approximately half of the nail cavity 14800. In various embodiments, the first protrusion 14650 surrounds the nail cavity to a greater extent than the second protrusion 14750 and the third protrusion 14850. In various embodiments, the second protrusion 14750 and the third protrusion 14850 surround the nail cavity to the same and / or similar extent. As shown in the depicted embodiments, the extent to which the protrusions 14650, 14750, and 14850 surround a particular nail cavity can vary based on the lateral position of the nail cavity relative to the elongated slot 14506. Although the depicted protrusions within a particular longitudinal row of staples are all identical, it is conceivable that the protrusions within the same longitudinal row may vary based on the position of the particular staple cavity relative to the proximal end 14502 and / or distal end 14504 of the staple cartridge 14500.

[0691] Figure 37A and Figure 37B The protrusions 14650, 14750, and 14850 shown extend from the platform surface 14510 to the same or similar height. More specifically, regardless of the position of the protrusions 14650, 14750, 14850 and / or the nail cavities 14600, 14700, and 14800 relative to the elongated slot 14506, the height of each protrusion 14650, 14750, and 14850 is substantially the same; however, any suitable height is contemplated to achieve a particular tissue effect.

[0692] Now go to Figure 38A and Figure 38BThe image depicts a staple cartridge 15000 including a platform surface 15010 and an elongated slot 15006 extending from a proximal end 15002 toward a distal end 15004. The platform surface 15010 of the staple cartridge 15000 is circular and / or curved. In other words, the height of the platform surface 15010 varies laterally relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 15006. The highest point of the platform surface 15010 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 15006. The staple cartridge 15000 also includes staple cavities arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first longitudinal row staple cavity 15100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 15006. A second longitudinal row staple cavity 15200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal row staple cavity 15100, and a third longitudinal row staple cavity 15300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal row staple cavity 15200. The staple cartridge 15000 also includes a protrusion extending above the platform surface 15010. The protrusions depicted on the staple cartridge 15000 are in the form of recessed extensions. These recessed extensions support the legs of the staples above the platform of the staple cartridge. An embodiment in which the protrusions are not recessed extensions is contemplated. A first protrusion 15150 surrounds a first portion of each staple cavity 15100 in a first longitudinal row, a second protrusion 15250 surrounds a second portion of each staple cavity 15200 in a second longitudinal row, and a third protrusion 15350 surrounds a third portion of each staple cavity 15300 in a third longitudinal row. In the depicted embodiment, these protrusions are connected to each other. More specifically, the first protrusion 15150 is connected to the second protrusion 15250, and the second protrusion 15250 is connected to the third protrusion 15350.

[0693] The protrusions 15150, 15250, and 15350 comprise elongated or diamond-like geometry. In other words, the protrusions 15150, 15250, and 15350 surround a portion of the rivet cavity in a manner that closely conforms to the boundary of the rivet cavity. In the depicted embodiment, the first protrusion 15150 completely surrounds the rivet cavity 15100 from within the first longitudinal row. The second protrusion 15250 completely surrounds the rivet cavity 15200 from within the second longitudinal row. The third protrusion 15350 completely surrounds the rivet cavity 15300 from within the third longitudinal row. As shown in the depicted embodiment, the extent to which the protrusions 15150, 15250, and 15350 surround a particular rivet cavity is the same regardless of the lateral position of the rivet cavity relative to the elongated slot 15006.

[0694] Figure 38A and Figure 38BThe protrusions 15150, 15250, and 15350 shown extend from the platform surface 15010 to different heights. Not only can they vary based on the position of the nail cavities 15100, 15200, and 15300 relative to the elongated slot 15006, but the heights of the protrusions 15150, 15250, and 15350 can also vary over each individual nail cavity. In other words, the height of a particular protrusion is not uniform throughout the protrusion. In the depicted embodiment, the height of the protrusion increases as the distance between the protrusion and the transverse slot 15006 increases, illustrating the curvature of the platform surface 15010. More specifically, the portions of the protrusions closer to the elongated slot 15006 are shorter than the portions farther away from the elongated slot 15006.

[0695] Figure 39A and Figure 39B The image depicts a staple cartridge 15500 comprising a platform surface 15510 and an elongated slot 15506 extending from a proximal end 15502 toward a distal end 15504. The platform surface 15510 of the staple cartridge 15500 is circular and / or curved. In other words, the height of the platform surface 15510 varies laterally relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 15506. The highest point of the platform surface 15510 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 15506. The staple cartridge 15500 also includes staple cavities arranged in three longitudinal rows. A first longitudinal row staple cavity 15600 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 15506. A second longitudinal row staple cavity 15700 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal row staple cavity 15600, and a third longitudinal row staple cavity 15800 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal row staple cavity 15700. The staple cartridge 15500 also includes a protrusion 15900 extending above the platform surface 15510. The protrusion 15900 depicted on the staple cartridge 15000 takes the form of a recessed extension. The recessed extension supports the legs of the staples above the platform of the staple cartridge. An embodiment in which the protrusion is not a recessed extension is contemplated. The protrusion 15900 spans three longitudinal rows of staple chambers. For example, the protrusion 15900 surrounds the proximal end 15602 of the staple chamber 15600 from the first longitudinal row, the distal end 15704 of the staple chamber 15700 from the second longitudinal row, and the proximal end 15802 of the staple chamber 15800 from the third longitudinal row. Another protrusion 15900 surrounds the distal end 15604 of the staple chamber 15600 from the first longitudinal row, the proximal end 15702 of the staple chamber 15700 from the second longitudinal row, and the distal end 15804 of the staple chamber 15800 from the third longitudinal row.

[0696] The protrusion 15900 comprises a diamond-like geometry. The protrusion 15900 surrounds a portion of the post cavity in a manner that closely conforms to the boundary of the post cavity. The height of each protrusion 15900 varies as the protrusion 15900 extends laterally away from the elongated slot 15506. (As...) Figure 39A and Figure 39B As shown, the total height of the staple cartridge 15500, including the protrusions 15900, is the same on each protrusion 15900. To achieve a horizontal surface on the protrusions 15900 via the curved platform surface 15506, the height of the protrusions 15900 must vary as they extend away from the elongated slot 15606. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the portion of the protrusion 15900 furthest from the elongated slot 15506 extends a greater distance from the platform surface 15510 than the portion of the protrusion 15900 closest to the elongated slot 15506.

[0697] Figure 40 An end effector 16000 for use with surgical suturing instruments is shown. The end effector 16000 includes an anvil 16010 and a staple cartridge jaw 16020. At least one of the anvil 16010 and the staple cartridge jaw 16020 is movable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. Figure 40 The end effector 16000 shown is in a closed configuration. The anvil 16010 includes a planar tissue support surface 16014, wherein the tissue support surface 16014 includes a plurality of pin-forming recesses 16012 defined therein.

[0698] The staple cartridge 16100 is configured to be reversibly seated within the staple jaws 16020. The staple cartridge 16100 includes an elongated slot 16106 extending from a proximal end toward a distal end. The longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge 16100 is defined along the elongated slot 16106. The staple cartridge 16100 also includes a circular and / or curved platform surface 16108. In various embodiments, the staple cartridge 16100 includes an inclined platform surface. A tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 16108 and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010. The tissue gap varies laterally relative to the elongated slot 16106. In the depicted embodiment, the tissue gap is minimum at points adjacent to the elongated slot 16106. The tissue gap increases at points laterally spaced away from the elongated slot 16106.

[0699] The staple cartridge 16100 includes staple cavities defined therein. A first longitudinal staple row cavity 16100 extends adjacent to an elongated slot 16106. A second longitudinal staple row cavity 16200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal staple row cavity 16100 on the same side of the elongated slot 16106. A third longitudinal staple row cavity 16300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal staple row cavity 16200. When the longitudinal staple rows are laterally spaced, the tissue gap varies between the longitudinal rows. The tissue gap between the staple cavity 16110 in the first longitudinal row and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 is the smallest, while the tissue gap between the staple cavity 16130 in the third longitudinal row and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 is the largest.

[0700] The staple cartridge 16100 includes a protrusion 16400 extending upward and / or toward the anvil 16010 from a curved platform surface 16108. The protrusion 16400 surrounds at least a portion of the staple cavities 16110, 16120, 16130 and serves, for example, to prevent tissue supported between the platform surface 16108 and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 from displaced from a desired location and / or to provide stability to the staple driver and / or the staple during the staple firing stroke. The extent to which the protrusion 16400 surrounds a particular staple cavity may vary based on the location of the staple cavity in the staple cartridge 16100. The protrusion 16400 may vary based on the location of a particular staple cavity relative to the elongated slot 16106. For example, the protrusions 16400 surrounding the staple cavities 16110 within the first longitudinal row may all be identical. However, the protrusion 16400 surrounding the staple cavity 16110 in the first longitudinal row may differ from the protrusion 16400 surrounding the staple cavities 16120 and 16130 in the second and third longitudinal rows. The protrusion 16400 may also vary based on the position of a particular staple cavity relative to the proximal and / or distal end of the staple cartridge 16100. For example, the protrusion 16400 may vary in height, length, and / or geometry. The ways in which the protrusion 16400 may vary are discussed in more detail herein.

[0701] In the depicted embodiment, a first protrusion 16400a surrounds a first portion of a nail cavity 16110 within a first longitudinal nail pack cavity. The first protrusion 16400a extends a first distance above the platform surface 16108. A second protrusion 16400b surrounds a second portion of a nail cavity 16120 within a second longitudinal nail pack cavity. The second protrusion 16400b extends a second distance above the platform surface 16108. A third protrusion 16400c surrounds a third portion of a nail cavity 16130 within a third longitudinal nail pack cavity. The third protrusion 16400c extends a third distance above the platform surface 16108. In various instances, the first distance differs from the second and third distances. Figure 40 and Figure 41In the implementation described herein, the third distance is greater than the first distance, and the first distance is greater than the second distance; however, the protrusion 16400 may extend from the platform surface 16108 to any distance to achieve the desired tissue gripping effect.

[0702] Now go to Figure 41 The staple cartridge 16100 also includes a staple driver 16500. The staple driver 16500 includes a first staple support portion 16510, a second staple support portion 16520, and a third staple support portion 16530. The first staple support portion 16510 extends from a first longitudinal staple packing cavity within a staple cavity 16110. The second staple support portion 16520 extends from a second longitudinal staple packing cavity within a staple cavity 16120. The third staple support portion 16530 extends from a third longitudinal staple packing cavity within a staple cavity 16130. The staple support portions 16510, 16520, and 16530 are connected together via a base 16550. All three staple support portions 16510, 16520, and 16530 extend a certain distance away from the base 16550 of the staple driver 16500. The top surface of each nail support portion 16510, 16520, 16530 is aligned with the top surface of the other nail support portions 16510, 16520, 16530 of the nail driver 16500 in the nail cartridge 16100.

[0703] The nail support portions 16510, 16520, and 16530 are configured to translate within the respective nail cavities 16110, 16120, and 16130 during the nail firing stroke. As discussed in more detail herein, the nail actuator 16500 moves between an unfired position and a fully fired position during the nail firing stroke. The nail actuator 16500 is shown in the unfired position, located... Figure 41 The staple cartridge 16100 is located near the base 16107. In the depicted embodiment, when the staple driver 16500 is in its unfired position, the base 16550 of the staple driver 16500 is aligned and / or flush with the base 16107 of the staple cartridge 16100.

[0704] The nail driver 16500 is also shown in the fully fired position. Figure 41 The staple cartridge 16100 is located near the platform surface 16108. In the fully fired position, a portion of the staple actuator 16500 is "overdriven" and extends above the platform surface 16108 of the staple cartridge 16100. As discussed in more detail herein, the staple cartridge 16100 includes a protrusion 16400 extending from the platform surface 16108 toward the anvil 16010. The protrusion 16400 surrounding at least a portion of each staple cavity serves, for example, to further compress tissue, while also providing support for the overdriven staple actuator 16500. As discussed above, all protrusions 16400 extend from the platform surface 16108 to different heights.。 The protrusion 16400 serves to guide the pin's legs during formation and / or provide additional stability to the pin driver 16500 during the pin firing stroke. The first protrusion 16400a reduces the tissue gap between the first pin cavity 16110 and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 by its height. Similarly, the second protrusion 16400b reduces the tissue gap between the second pin cavity 16120 and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 by its height. The third protrusion 16400c reduces the tissue gap between the third pin cavity 16130 and the tissue support surface 16014 of the anvil 16010 by its height.

[0705] In the fully fired position, the first nail support surface 16510 of the nail driver 16500 extends a first distance OD1 above the protrusion 16400a, the second nail support surface 16520 extends a second distance OD2 above the protrusion 16400b, and the third nail support surface extends a third distance OD3 above the protrusion 16400c. Due to the curvature of the platform surface 16108 and the varying height of the protrusion 16400, the first distance OD1 differs from the second distance OD2 and the third distance OD3. In the depicted embodiment, the third distance OD3 is greater than the second distance OD2, and the second distance OD2 is greater than the first distance OD1.

[0706] The staples are removably positioned within each staple cavity. In at least one instance, the staples are deformed to the same or at least substantially the same height. Uniform staple formation is achieved because the overdrive distances OD1, OD2, OD3 of the staple driver 16500 take into account variations in tissue spacing along the platform surface 16108. Figure 41 As shown, when the nail driver 16500 is in the fully fired position, the distance between the first nail support portion 16510 and the corresponding nail forming recess 16012 of the anvil 16010 of the nail driver 19150 is the same as the distance between the second nail support portion 16520 and the corresponding nail forming recess 16012. Similarly, when the nail driver 16500 is in the fully fired position, the distance between the first nail support surface 16510 and the second nail support surface 16520 and the corresponding nail forming recess 16012 is the same as the distance between the third nail support surface 16530 and the corresponding nail forming recess 16012. Therefore, the nails positioned in all three longitudinal nail chambers are configured to be able to form and / or bend to the same height.

[0707] As described above, a surgical end effector includes an anvil and stapler jaws. In some embodiments, the stapler jaws are movable relative to the anvil, while in other embodiments, the anvil is movable relative to the stapler jaws. When the anvil is in its open position, the stapler jaws are positioned on one side of the tissue to be sutured, and the anvil jaws are positioned on the opposite side. In such instances, the end effector moves relative to the tissue until the tissue is properly positioned between the stapler jaws and the anvil. To prevent the target tissue from being positioned proximal to the nearest stapler lumen, the anvil may include a downwardly extending projection, commonly referred to as a "tissue stop," which prevents the target tissue from being positioned too proximally between the anvil and the stapler. The tissue stop extends downward beyond the platform surface of the stapler to prevent the tissue from being positioned too proximally between the anvil and the stapler. In other words, the tissue stop ensures that the tissue positioned between the jaws of the end effector is not accurately cut by the cutting member without suturing. The tissue stop is sized and constructed such that the tissue is not accidentally compressed between the tissue stop and the lateral sides of the stapler jaws. Tissue stops are discussed in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 105,140, ​​entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH TISSUE STOP FEATURES CONFIGURED TO AVOIDTISSUE PINCH,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In various instances, the staple cartridge includes tissue stops that work cooperatively with tissue stops of the anvil.

[0708] Figure 42 A staple cartridge 17000 is shown, comprising an elongated slot 17006 extending from a proximal end 17002 toward a distal end 17004. A longitudinal axis is defined by the elongated slot 17006. The staple cartridge 17000 includes three longitudinal staple rows defined on each side of the elongated slot 17006. A first longitudinal staple row cavity 17100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 17006. A second longitudinal staple row cavity 17200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal staple row cavity 17100. A third longitudinal staple row cavity 17300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal staple row cavity 17200. The staple row cavity 17100 in the first longitudinal row is aligned with the staple row cavity 17300 in the third longitudinal row, while the staple row cavity 17200 in the second longitudinal row is offset from the staple rows 17100 and 17300 in the first and third longitudinal rows. The nearest side staple cavities 17100 and 17300 in the first and third longitudinal rows are proximal to the nearest side staple cavity 17200 in the second longitudinal row, respectively. The staple cartridge 17000 also includes a pair of tissue stops or walls 17600 extending between the nearest side staple cavities 17100 and 17300 in the first and third longitudinal rows. A dashed line extends laterally through the staple cartridge 17000 to indicate the position of the tissue stops relative to the anvil. Figure 42As shown, the proximal halves of the nearest-side nail cavities 17100 and 17300 from the first and third longitudinal rows are located near the dashed lines, and tissue movement relative to these nail cavities is prevented proximally by the tissue stop 17600. Since the nearest-side nail cavities are located in the first longitudinal row, a tight seal is formed by the nail lines when the cutting member cuts through the tissue located between the jaws of the end effector.

[0709] Figure 43 A staple cartridge 17000 is shown, comprising an elongated slot 17006 extending from a proximal end 17002 toward a distal end 17004. A longitudinal axis is defined by the elongated slot 17006. The staple cartridge 17000 includes three longitudinal staple rows defined on each side of the elongated slot 17006. A first longitudinal staple row cavity 17100 extends adjacent to the elongated slot 17006. A second longitudinal staple row cavity 17200 extends adjacent to the first longitudinal staple row cavity 17100. A third longitudinal staple row cavity 17300 extends adjacent to the second longitudinal staple row cavity 17200. The staple row cavity 17100 in the first longitudinal row is aligned with the staple row cavity 17300 in the third longitudinal row, while the staple row cavity 17200 in the second longitudinal row is offset from the staple rows 17100 and 17300 in the first and third longitudinal rows. The nearest side staple cavities 17100 and 17300 in the first and third longitudinal rows are respectively distal to the nearest side staple cavity 17200 in the second longitudinal row. A dashed line extends laterally through the staple cartridge 17000' to indicate the position of the tissue stop relative to the anvil. Notably, the tissue stop interacting with the staple cartridge 17000' is positioned distal to the tissue stop interacting with the staple cartridge 17000. This difference in the position of the tissue stop is at least partly due to the position of the nearest side staple cavity 17100 in the first longitudinal row relative to the nearest side staple cavities from the other longitudinal rows.

[0710] The stinger 19000 is depicted in Figure 44 The staple cartridge 19000 is configured to be positioned within a channel of the jaws of a surgical end effector. The end effector includes an anvil jaw 19050, which is opposite to the jaws when the end effector is in a closed configuration. At least one of the anvil jaw 19050 and the jaws is movable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration. The anvil jaw 19050 includes a plurality of staple forming recesses defined therein, the plurality of staple forming recesses being configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge 19000.

[0711] The staple cartridge 19000 includes a cartridge body 19008, which includes an elongated slot 19006 extending from a proximal end 19002 toward a distal end 19004 of the cartridge body 19008. The cartridge body 19008 also includes a platform surface 19010. Staple cavities 19100, 19200, and 19300 are defined within the cartridge body 19008. The staple cavities 19100, 19200, and 19300 are arranged in three rows, wherein these three rows extend along the same side of the elongated slot 19006. The first row of staple cavities 19100 is adjacent to and / or extends beside the elongated slot 19006. The third row of staple cavities 19300 is positioned away from the elongated slot 19006, and the second row of staple cavities 19200 extends between the first row of staple cavities 19100 and the third row of staple cavities 19300.

[0712] The longitudinal axis is defined by the elongated slot 19006 of the staple cartridge 19000. For example... Figure 44 As shown, the cavities 19100, 19200, and 19300 in these three rows are not oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the axis defined by cavities 19100, 19200, and 19300 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 19006. Each cavity 19100 in the first row defines an axis that is substantially parallel to the axis defined by each cavity 19300 in the third row. Each cavity 19200 in the second row is substantially perpendicular to the orientation of cavities 19100 and 19300 in the first and third rows.

[0713] The platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 is circular and / or curved. In other words, the height of the platform surface 19010 varies laterally relative to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 19006. The highest point of the platform surface 19010 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 19006, which extends downward to the central portion of the cartridge body 19008. Figure 44 A portion of the staple cartridge 19000 is shown without a staple cavity to more clearly illustrate the circular nature and / or curvature of the platform surface 19010.

[0714] Now go to Figure 45 and Figure 46The staple cartridge 19000 is shown in more detail. The staple cartridge 19000 includes a protrusion 19400 extending above the platform surface 19010. Furthermore, the protrusion 19400 is configured to grip tissue held between the jaws of the end effector and / or prevent tissue from slipping relative to the staple cartridge 19000. The protrusion 19400 depicted on the staple cartridge 19000 takes the form of a recessed extension. The depicted recessed extension provides support to the staple and / or staple driver as the staple is driven out of the staple cartridge 19000 toward the anvil 19050. A first protrusion 19400a surrounds a first end 19102 of the staple cavity 19100, and a second protrusion 19400b surrounds a second end 19104 of the staple cavity 19100. Although the protrusion 19400 is shown as surrounding only a portion of each staple cavity, it is contemplated that the protrusion 19400 may surround any desired amount of staple cavity, such as, for example, the entire staple cavity.

[0715] Figure 45 , Figure 46 and Figure 52 The protrusions 19400 shown are uniform in height. In other words, all protrusions 19400 extend the same distance from the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000. Figure 46 and Figure 52 An end effector in a closed configuration is shown. In the closed configuration, a tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 and the tissue compression surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. Due to the curved nature of the platform surface 19010, the tissue gap varies laterally on the cartridge platform 19010 relative to the elongated slot 19006.

[0716] The anvil 19050 also includes a plurality of staple-forming recesses 19060 defined in the tissue compression surface 19056. Each staple-forming recess 19060 corresponds to a separate staple cavity 19100, 19200, or 19300 of the staple cartridge 19000. Figure 46 As shown, each nail forming recess 19060 includes a first recess 19062 and a second recess 19064. The first recess 19062 is aligned with a first end 19152 of the nail driver, and the second recess 19064 is aligned with a second end 19154 of the nail driver. A first leg of the nail is configured to contact the first recess 19062 during nail forming, while a second leg of the nail is configured to contact the second recess 19064 during nail forming.

[0717] like Figure 46 As shown, a first tissue gap g is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 and the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织1The first interstitial space g was measured at a point adjacent to the elongated slot 19006. 组织1 A second tissue gap g is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 and the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织2 The second interstitial space g was measured at a point 19006 laterally spaced away from the narrow, elongated groove. 组织2 Second interstitial space g 组织2 Greater than the first interstitial space g 组织1 The presence of a smaller tissue gap adjacent to the elongated slot 19006 causes the tissue next to the elongated slot 19006 to be compressed to a greater extent than the tissue laterally spaced away from the elongated slot 19006. This is especially true when the tissue held between the jaws of the end effector is of substantially uniform thickness. This greater compression causes fluid dispersion away from the elongated slot 19006, and in addition, it promotes uniform cutting lines and / or anchoring of the pins.

[0718] The nail driver 19150 from the first row of nail chambers 19100 is in Figure 46 and Figure 52 The image shows the fully fired position. In the fully fired position, a portion of the staple driver 19150 is "overdriven" and extends above the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000. As discussed in more detail herein, the staple cartridge 19000 includes a protrusion 19400 extending from the platform surface 19010 toward an anvil 19050 surrounding at least a portion of the staple cavity. The protrusion 19400 serves, for example, to further compress tissue, while also providing support for the overdriven staple driver 19150 and / or the staples driven by the staple driver 19150. As discussed above, all protrusions 19400 extend from the platform surface 19010 to the same maximum height h1. Figure 52 As shown, the first protrusion 19400a reduces the tissue gap g1 at the point where the first stud leg forms the stud by more than the height h1 of the first protrusion 19400a. Similarly, the second protrusion 19400b reduces the tissue gap g2 at the point where the second stud leg forms the stud by more than the height h1 of the second protrusion 19400b.

[0719] In the fully fired position of the nail actuator 19150, the first end portion 19152 of the nail actuator 19150 extends a first distance OD1 above the protrusion 19400a, while the second end portion 19154 of the nail actuator 19150 extends a second distance OD2 above the protrusion 19400b. The first distance OD1 differs from the second distance OD2 due to the curvature of the platform surface 19010, the uniform height h1 of the protrusion 19400, and the orientation of the nail cavity 19100 relative to the longitudinal axis. In the depicted embodiment, the second distance OD2 is greater than the first distance OD1.

[0720] The stud legs within the stud cavity 19100 are configured to form at the same or at least substantially the same height. Uniform stud leg formation is achieved because the overdrive distances OD1 and OD2 of the stud actuator 19150 take into account variations in the tissue space along the stud cavity 19100. Figure 46 As shown, the distance between the first end 19152 of the nail driver 19150 and the first recess 19062 of the forming recess 19060 is the same as the distance between the second end 19154 of the nail driver 19150 and the second recess 19064 of the forming recess 19060. Therefore, the legs of the nail are formed and / or bent to the same degree.

[0721] Unlike the protrusion 19400 that extends above the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000, Figure 47 and Figure 48 The staple cartridge 19000' shown includes a smooth platform surface 19010. In other words, nothing protrudes and / or extends above the platform surface 19010. Staple actuators 19150, 19250, and 19350 are movably positioned within staple cavities 19100, 19200, and 19300. Each staple actuator (such as staple actuator 19150) includes a bracket 19156 configured to support a staple base. The bracket 19156 includes a first end 19152 and a second end 19154. The first end 19152 is configured to support the staple near a location where the staple base meets a first leg of the staple. The second end 19154 is configured to support the staple near a location where the staple base meets a second leg of the staple.

[0722] Figure 48 An end effector comprising a staple cartridge 19000' disposed in the jaws of the staple cartridge is shown. The end effector is in a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, a tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000' and the tissue compression surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. Due to the curved nature of the platform surface 19010, the tissue gap varies laterally on the cartridge platform 19010 relative to the elongated slot 19006. In the depicted embodiment, the tissue gap is minimized at a point adjacent to the elongated slot 19006. The tissue gap increases at points laterally spaced away from the elongated slot 19006.

[0723] More specifically, a first tissue gap g is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000' and the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织1 The first interstitial space g was measured at a point adjacent to the elongated slot 19006. 组织1A second tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000' and the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织2 The second interstitial space g was measured at a point 19006 laterally spaced away from the narrow, elongated groove. 组织2 Second interstitial space g 组织2 Greater than the first interstitial space g 组织1 The presence of a smaller tissue gap adjacent to the elongated slot 19006 causes the tissue next to the elongated slot 19006 to be compressed to a greater extent than the tissue laterally spaced away from the elongated slot 19006. This is especially true when the tissue held between the jaws of the end effector is of substantially uniform thickness. This greater compression causes body fluids to disperse away from the elongated slot 19006, and in addition, it promotes uniform cutting lines and / or anchoring of the pins.

[0724] The nail driver 19150 from the first row of nail chambers 19100 is in Figure 48 The image shows the fully fired position. In the fully fired position, a portion of the staple actuator 19150 is "overdriven" and extends above the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000'. A first end 19152 of the staple actuator 19150 extends a first distance OD1 above the platform surface 19006, while a second end 19154 of the staple actuator 19150 extends a second distance OD2 above the platform surface. The first distance OD1 differs from the second distance OD2 due to the curved nature of the platform surface 19010 and the orientation of the staple cartridge 19100 relative to the longitudinal axis. In the depicted embodiment, the second distance OD2 is greater than the first distance OD1. It is noteworthy that the overdriven distance of the staple cartridge 19000', which includes a smooth and / or protrusion-free platform surface 19010, is greater than the overdriven distance of the staple cartridge 19000', which includes protrusions extending from the platform surface.

[0725] The stud legs within the stud cavity 19100 are configured to form at the same or at least substantially the same height. Uniform stud leg formation is achieved because the overdrive distances OD1 and OD2 of the stud actuator 19150 take into account variations in the tissue space along the stud cavity 19100. Figure 48 As shown, the distance between the first end 19152 of the nail driver 19150 and the first recess 19062 of the nail forming recess 19060 is the same as the distance between the second end 19154 of the nail driver 19150 and the second recess 19064 of the nail forming recess 19060. Therefore, the nail legs are formed and / or bent to the same degree.

[0726] Figure 49 and Figure 50A staple cartridge 19000” is depicted that is similar in many respects to staple cartridge 19000. For example, both staple cartridges 19000 and 19000” include a curved and / or circular platform surface 19010 profile, with protrusions 19400 extending above the platform surface. Furthermore, the protrusions 19400 on staple cartridge 19000” also take the form of recessed extensions. A first protrusion 19400a surrounds a first end portion 19102 of staple cavity 19100, and a second protrusion 19400b surrounds a second end portion 19104 of staple cavity 19100. Although the protrusions 19400 are shown as surrounding only a portion of each staple cavity, it is conceivable that the protrusions 19400 could surround any suitable amount of staple cavity, such as, for example, the entire staple cavity.

[0727] Figure 49 and Figure 50 The protrusions 19400 shown extend from the platform surface 19010 to different heights. More specifically, the height of each protrusion 19400 varies based on its position relative to the elongated slot 19006. In various embodiments, the height of the protrusion 19400 decreases as the protrusion 19400 is positioned away from the elongated slot 19006. Figure 49 As shown, a first protrusion 19400a surrounding a first end portion 19102 of the nail cavity 19100 extends from the platform surface 19010 to a first height h1. A second protrusion 19400a surrounding a second end portion 19104 of the same nail cavity 19100 extends from the platform surface 19010 to a second height h2. The first height h1 differs from the second height h2. In the depicted embodiment, the second height h2 is shorter than the first height h1. Furthermore, the protrusion having a greater height closer to the blade slot 19006 facilitates fluid flow away from the cutting line.

[0728] Figure 50 An end effector comprising a staple cartridge 19000” disposed in the jaws of a staple cartridge is shown. The end effector is in a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, a tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000” and the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. Due to the curved nature of the platform surface 19010, the tissue gap varies laterally on the cartridge platform 19010 relative to the elongated slot 19006. Figure 50 As shown, a first tissue gap g is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000” and the tissue compression surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织1 The first interstitial space g was measured at a point adjacent to the elongated slot 19006. 组织1 A second tissue gap is defined between the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 and the tissue compression surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. 组织2The second interstitial space g was measured at a point 19006 laterally spaced away from the narrow, elongated groove. 组织2 Second interstitial space g 组织2 Greater than the first interstitial space g 组织1 The presence of a smaller tissue gap adjacent to the elongated slot 19006 causes the tissue next to the elongated slot 19006 to be compressed to a greater extent than the tissue laterally spaced away from the elongated slot 19006. This is especially true when the tissue held between the jaws of the end effector is of substantially uniform thickness. This greater compression causes fluid dispersion away from the elongated slot 19006, and in addition, it promotes uniform cutting lines and / or anchoring of the pins.

[0729] The nail driver 19150 from the first row of nail chambers 19100 is in Figure 50 The image shows the fully fired position. In the fully fired position, a portion of the staple driver 19150 is "overdriven" and extends above the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000". As discussed in more detail above, the staple cartridge 19000 includes a protrusion 19400 extending from the platform surface 19010 toward an anvil 19050 surrounding at least a portion of the staple cavity. The protrusion 19400 serves, for example, to further compress tissue, while also providing support for the overdriven staple driver 19150 and / or the staples driven by the staple driver 19150. The protrusion 19400 extends from the platform surface 19010 of the staple cartridge 19000 to different final heights. 。

[0730] In the fully driven position of the staple actuator 19150, the first end portion 19152 of the staple actuator 19150 extends a first distance OD1 over the protrusion 19400a, while the second end portion 19154 of the staple actuator 19150 extends a second distance OD2 over the protrusion 19400b. It is noteworthy that the overdrive distance of the staple cartridge 19000” is less than the overdrive distance of the staple cartridge 19000', which includes the smooth platform surface 19010. Due to the curved nature of the platform surface 19010 and the orientation of the staple cavity 19100 relative to the longitudinal axis, the first distance OD1 differs from the second distance OD2. In the depicted embodiment, the second distance OD2 is greater than the first distance OD1.

[0731] The stud legs within the stud cavity 19100 are configured to form at the same or at least substantially the same height. Uniform stud leg formation is achieved because the overdrive distances OD1 and OD2 of the stud actuator 19150 take into account variations in the tissue space along the stud cavity 19100. Figure 50As shown, the distance between the first end 19152 of the nail driver 19150 and the first recess 19062 of the forming recess 19060 is the same as the distance between the second end 19154 of the nail driver 19150 and the second recess 19064 of the forming recess 19060. Therefore, the legs of the nail are formed uniformly.

[0732] Figure 51 A portion of an end effector including a staple cartridge with protrusions 19400 of varying heights is shown. A first protrusion 19400a extends from a first side 19102 of the staple cavity 19100 to a first height h1. A second protrusion 19400b extends from a second side 19104 of the staple cavity 19100 to a second height h2. The second height h2 differs from the first height h1. In the depicted embodiment, the second height h2 is higher than the first height h1; however, any suitable arrangement is contemplated. Although the second protrusion 19400b is higher than the first protrusion 19400a, when the end effector is in a closed configuration, the top surfaces 19402a of the first protrusion 19400a and 19402b of the second protrusion 19400b are equidistant from the tissue support surface 19056 of the anvil 19050. In other words, the tissue gap comprises a uniform gap distance “g” across the staple cavity 19100.

[0733] As discussed in more detail above, the protrusion 19400 provides support for the nail and / or nail driver as the nail driver and nail drive toward the anvil. The greater height h2 of the second protrusion 19400b minimizes overdrive of the second end 19154 of the nail driver 19150. Minimizing the portion of the nail driver 19150 exposed above the platform surface 19010 makes it less likely for the nail driver 19150 to shift and / or misalign during the nail firing stroke. The protrusion 19400 serves, for example, to enhance the stability of the nail driver, maintain the alignment of the nail driver during the nail firing stroke, and / or prevent the nail driver from shifting.

[0734] Figures 53 to 56 The variability of tissue gripping features and / or protrusions across individual staple cavities is illustrated. As described in more detail herein, a staple cavity is defined within a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a platform surface having a curved and / or circular profile. Various parameters of the tissue gripping features and / or protrusions can be varied along the platform surface of the staple cartridge to achieve a desired tissue effect. Such parameters include, for example, the angle at which the protrusion extends from the platform surface, the height at which the protrusion extends, the length of the staple cavity around which the protrusion surrounds, and / or the radius of curvature of the protrusion around the end of the staple cavity. Figure 53A portion of a staple cartridge 18000, including multiple tissue-grasping features, is shown. The staple cartridge 18000 includes an elongated slot 18006 extending from a proximal end 18002 toward a distal end 18004. Similar to the staple cartridge 19000, the staple cartridge 18000 includes a circular and / or curved platform surface 18010. In other words, the height of the platform surface 18010 varies laterally relative to the elongated slot 18006. The highest point of the platform surface 18010 shown is adjacent to the elongated slot 18006.

[0735] Nail cavities 18100, 18200, and 18300 are defined within a housing 18008. Nail cavities 18100, 18200, and 18300 are arranged in three rows, extending along the same side of an elongated slot 18006. The first row of nail cavities 18100 is adjacent to and / or extends beside the elongated slot 18006. The third row of nail cavities 18300 is positioned away from the elongated slot 18006, and the second row of nail cavities 18200 extends between the first row of nail cavities 18100 and the third row of nail cavities 18300.

[0736] The longitudinal axis is defined by an elongated slot 18006. For example... Figure 53 As shown, the cavities 18100, 18200, and 18300 are not oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the axis defined by the cavities 18100, 18200, and 18300 is not parallel to the longitudinal axis defined by the elongated slot 18006. Each cavity 18100 in the first row defines a first cavity axis. Each cavity 18200 in the second row defines a second cavity axis. Each cavity 18300 in the third row defines a third cavity axis. Figure 53 As shown, the axis of the first cavity is oriented in a different direction than the axis of the second cavity. The axis of the first cavity is substantially parallel to the axis of the third cavity.

[0737] The staple cartridge 18000 includes various protrusions 18400 extending from the platform surface 18010. The protrusions 18400 surround a portion of each staple cavity to varying degrees. Similarly, the protrusions 18400 may vary in size and / or geometry based on their position and / or orientation on the cartridge body 18008. In various instances, and as... Figure 53 As shown, all the protrusions 18400 surrounding the nail chamber within a specific row are identical. In other instances, the protrusions 18400 surrounding the nail chamber within a specific row differ from one another. For example, the size and / or geometry of the protrusions 18400 may vary based on the longitudinal position of an individual nail chamber relative to other nail chambers. The height of each protrusion may differ across the nail cartridge and even between protrusions surrounding an individual nail chamber.

[0738] In addition to the above, the nail cavity 18100 includes a proximal end 18102 and a distal end 18104, wherein the distal end 18104 is closer to the elongated slot 18006 than the proximal end 18102. A first protrusion 18110 is aligned with the distal end 18104 and extends to a first height h1 away from the platform surface 18010. A second protrusion 18120 is aligned with the proximal end 18102 and extends to a second height h2 away from the platform surface 18010. In the depicted embodiment, the first height h1 is shorter than the second height h2. In various instances, the protrusion positioned closer to the elongated slot 18006 has a shorter height than the protrusion positioned laterally further away from the elongated slot 18006. For example, the protrusion 18310 of the nail cavity 18300 in the third row extends to a height h3, which is less than the heights h1 and h2 of the protrusions 18110 and 18120 of the nail cavity 18100 in the first row.

[0739] The angle at which the protrusions extend away from the platform surface can also vary. For example, a first protrusion 18110 of the staple cartridge 18100 extends away from the platform surface 18010 at a first angle α1, while a second protrusion 18120 extends away from the platform surface 18010 at a second angle α2. In the depicted embodiments, the first angle α1 is perpendicular to the platform surface 18010, and the second angle α1 is not perpendicular to the platform surface 18010. The second protrusion 18120 extends at a more inclined angle relative to the platform surface 18010, while the first protrusion 18110 extends at a steeper and / or more precipitous angle relative to the platform surface 18010. In various instances, protrusions positioned closer to the elongated slot 18006 extend away from the platform surface of the staple cartridge at a sharper angle than protrusions positioned laterally further away from the elongated slot 18006. For example, the protrusion 18310 of the nail cavity 18300 in the third row extends from the platform surface at an angle a3, which is smaller than the angles a1 and a2 of the protrusions 18110 and 18120 of the nail cavity 18100 in the first row. Other arrangements are possible.

[0740] The total length of the nail cavity covered by each protrusion can also be a variable parameter. In various instances, the protrusion may surround the entire length of the nail cavity. In other instances, the protrusion may surround only a portion of the length of the nail cavity. For example, a first protrusion 18110 of the nail cavity 18100 surrounds a small portion of the nail cavity 18100, such as, for example, 10%. The first protrusion 18110 covers a first length l1 of the nail cavity 18100. However, a second protrusion 18120 surrounds a larger portion of the nail cavity 18100, such as, for example, 30%. The second protrusion 18120 covers a second length l2 of the nail cavity 18100. Therefore, the second length l2 is greater than the first length l1. In various instances, protrusions positioned closer to the elongated slot 18006 surround a smaller portion of the nail cavity than protrusions positioned laterally further away from the elongated slot 18006. For example, the protrusion 18310 of the nail cavity 18300 in the third row surrounds a third length l3, which is exactly the entire length of the nail cavity 18300. The third length l3 is greater than either length l1 or l2 that is covered by the protrusions 18110 and 18120 of the nail cavities 18100 in the first row. Other arrangements are possible.

[0741] The radius of curvature of the protrusions around the end of the staple cavity can vary on the staple cartridge. In various examples, the protrusions may form a sharp curve around the end of the staple cavity. In other examples, the protrusions may form a blunt curve around the end of the staple cavity. For example, a first protrusion 18110 of the staple cavity 18100 forms a curve with a first radius r1 around the distal end 18104 of the staple cavity 18100. A second protrusion 18120 of the staple cavity 18100 forms a curve with a second radius r2 around the proximal end 18102 of the staple cavity 18100. The first radius r1 is smaller than the second radius r2, resulting in a sharper curve formed by the first protrusion 18110 around the distal end 18104 of the staple cavity 18100 than the curve formed by the second protrusion 18120 around the proximal end 18102 of the staple cavity 18100. In various examples, the protrusions positioned laterally closer to the elongated slot 18006 surround the end of the nail cavity with a sharper curve than protrusions positioned laterally further away from the elongated slot. For example, the protrusion 18310 of the nail cavity 18300 in the third row forms a curve with a third radius r3 around the edge of the nail cavity 18300. The third radius r3 is smaller than the radii r1 and r2 formed by the protrusions 18110 and 18120 of the nail cavities 18100 in the first row. Therefore, the third radius r3 is blunter and / or less sharp than radii r1 and r2. Other arrangements are possible.

[0742] Other parameters, such as the geometry of the top surface of the protrusion 19400, can vary to achieve the desired tissue effect. In various instances, the protrusion 19400 includes a rounded outer edge to prevent and / or minimize trauma to the tissue supported between the jaws of the end effector. In other instances, the protrusion 19400 includes a sharp outer edge to facilitate gripping between the protrusion 19400 and the tissue supported between the jaws of the end effector.

[0743] Figure 54 A protrusion is shown surrounding a portion of a staple cavity 18100 defined in a first longitudinal staple row cavity within a staple cartridge 18000. As discussed in more detail above, the first longitudinal staple row extends alongside and / or adjacent to an elongated slot 18006. A first protrusion 18400a extends across a first length l of the proximal end 18102 of the staple cavity 18100. 1b The second protrusion 18400b extends across the second length l of the distal end 18104 of the nail cavity 18100. 1a First length l 1b Longer than the second length l 1a Therefore, the first protrusion 18400a surrounds a larger portion of the nail cavity 18100 than the second protrusion 18400b. The protrusions 18400a and 18400b extend from the platform surface 18010 at a first angle α1. In the depicted embodiment, the protrusions 18400a and 18400b extend from the platform surface 18010 at the same angle; however, it is contemplated that the protrusions 18400a and 18400b may extend from the platform surface 18010 at any suitable angle to control tissue flow. The first protrusion 18400a includes a portion having a first radius of curvature r. 1b The tissue supports the edge, and the second protrusion 18400b includes a second radius of curvature r. 1a The tissue supports the edge. In various instances, the first radius of curvature r 1b Unlike the second radius of curvature r 1a However, they can be the same in other embodiments. In the depicted embodiment, the first radius of curvature r 1b Greater than the second radius of curvature r 1a In other words, the second protrusion 18400b forms a sharper edge. When the second protrusion 18400b is positioned closest to the elongated slot 18006 and therefore closer to the cutting line, for example, the sharper edge can provide a stronger grip on tissue positioned between the jaws of the end effector and prevent tissue from moving out of the desired position. Figure 53As shown, due to the orientation of the nail cavity 18100, the proximal end 18102 of the nail cavity 18100 is further away from the elongated slot 18006 of the nail cartridge 18000 than the distal end 18104 of the nail cavity 18100. For example, a portion of the protrusion 18400b surrounding the proximal end 18102 of the nail cavity 18100 extends a first height h above the platform surface 18010. 1b A portion of the distal end 18104 of the protrusion 18400a surrounding the nail cavity 18100 extends a second height above the platform surface 18010. 1a First altitude h 1b Unlike the second altitude h 1a However, this can be the same in other embodiments. In the depicted embodiment, the portion of protrusion 18400b surrounding the proximal end 18102 of the nail cavity 18100 extends further above the platform surface 18010 than the portion of protrusion 18400a surrounding the distal end 18104 of the nail cavity 18100. Because the platform surface 18010 is curved, the height difference allows the top surface of the protrusion 18400 to be substantially horizontal on the nail cavity 18100.

[0744] Figure 55A protrusion is shown surrounding a portion of a staple cavity 18200 defined in a second longitudinal row of staples within a staple cartridge 18000. As discussed in more detail above, the second longitudinal row extends alongside and / or adjacent to the first longitudinal row of staple cavities 18100. The second longitudinal row is laterally spaced further from the elongated slot 18006 than the first longitudinal row. A first protrusion 18400a extends across a length l2 of the proximal end 18202 of staple cavity 18200, and a second protrusion 18400b extends across a length l2 of the distal end 18204 of staple cavity 18200. In the depicted embodiment, the first length l2 and the second length l2 are the same; however, any suitable length is contemplated to achieve the desired result. Thus, the first protrusion 18400a has the same dimensions around staple cavity 18200 as the second protrusion 18400b. Protrusions 18400a and 18400b extend from the platform surface 18010 at a second angle a2. In the depicted embodiment, protrusions 18400a and 18400b extend from the platform surface 18010 at the same angle; however, it is contemplated that protrusions 18400a and 18400b may extend from the platform surface 18010 at any suitable angle to control tissue flow. The second angle a2 of the protrusion of the second stub cavity 18200 extending from the platform surface 18010 is greater than the first angle a1 of the protrusion of the first stub cavity 18100 extending from the platform surface 18010. In other words, the angle at which the protrusion extends from the platform surface 18010 becomes larger and / or less precipitous when the stub cavity is laterally positioned away from the elongated slot 18006. The first protrusion 18400a and the second protrusion 18400b include tissue-supporting edges that include a second radius of curvature r2. In the depicted embodiment, the radius of curvature r2 is the same for both protrusions 18400a and 18400b, but they may differ in other embodiments. In various instances, the radius of curvature r2 of the protrusion of the second nail cavity 18200 is greater than the radius of curvature r of the protrusion of the first nail cavity 18100. 1a r 1b In other words, a sharper edge is formed by the protrusion from the first nail cavity 18100. When the first nail cavity 18100 is positioned closest to the elongated slot 18006 and therefore closer to the cutting line, for example, the sharper edge can provide a stronger grip on tissue positioned between the jaws of the end effector and prevent tissue from moving out of the desired position. Figure 53 As shown, the orientation of the nail cavity 18200 is opposite to that of the nail cavity 18100. More specifically, the distal end 18204 of the nail cavity 18200 is further away from the elongated slot 18006 of the nail cartridge 18000 than the proximal end 18202 of the nail cavity 18200. For example, a portion of the protrusion 18400a surrounding the proximal end 18202 of the nail cavi...

Claims

1. A staple cartridge for use with surgical instruments, wherein the staple cartridge comprises: Proximal end; distal end; The storage body includes: The central part; and A platform surface, wherein the height of the platform surface varies laterally relative to the central portion; An elongated slot extending from the proximal end toward the distal end, wherein the elongated slot defines a longitudinal axis, and wherein the platform surface varies laterally relative to the elongated slot; A row of nail cavities extends alongside the elongated slot, wherein each nail cavity includes a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the distal end of the nail cavity is closer to the elongated slot than the proximal end; A staple driver, movably positioned within a row of staple cavities, wherein each staple driver includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of each staple driver is aligned with the distal end of the staple cavity, and wherein each second end of the staple driver is aligned with the proximal end of the staple cavity; and A firing member configured to drive the nail driver from a non-firing position to a fully fired position during the nail firing stroke, wherein when the nail driver is in the fully fired position, a first end of the nail driver extends a first distance above the platform surface, wherein when the nail driver is in the fully fired position, a second end of the nail driver extends a second distance above the platform surface, and wherein the first distance and the second distance are different.

2. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The first distance is less than the second distance.

3. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The platform surface is curved.

4. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: A first protrusion extends from the surface of the platform, wherein the first protrusion surrounds a portion of the distal end of the nail cavity; as well as A second protrusion extends from the platform surface, wherein the second protrusion surrounds a portion of the proximal end of the nail cavity.

5. The staple cartridge according to claim 4, wherein, The first protrusion extends above the platform surface to a first height, wherein the second protrusion extends above the platform surface to a second height, and wherein the first height and the second height are different.

6. The staple cartridge according to claim 4, wherein, The first protrusion includes a planar tissue support surface.

7. The staple cartridge according to claim 4, wherein, The first protrusion includes a curved tissue support surface.

8. The staple cartridge according to claim 4, wherein, The first protrusion extends away from the platform surface at a first angle, wherein the second protrusion extends away from the platform surface at a second angle, and wherein the first angle is different from the second angle.

9. The staple cartridge according to claim 1, wherein, The row of nail chambers includes a first row of nail chambers, wherein the nail cartridge further includes a second row of nail chambers extending alongside the first row of nail chambers, wherein each of the nail chambers in the second row includes a proximal end and a distal end, and wherein the proximal end of the nail chamber in the second row is closer to the elongated slot than the distal end.

Images