Fastener cartridge including fastener control features

Abstract

An end effector can include 1) a fastener cartridge including a plurality of fasteners stored therein, and 2) an anvil configured to deform the fasteners. The anvil can further include an extension extending therefrom that can control the flow of tissue relative to the fastener cartridge and / or support the fasteners as they are ejected from the fastener cartridge. The extension can have different sizes and / or configurations.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the international application filed on April 14, 2015, with international application number PCT / US2015 / 025639, national application number 201580032320.8, entitled "Fasten housing including fastener cavity with fastener control feature structure", which has entered the Chinese national phase.

[0002] Cross-references to related applications

[0003] Pursuant to 35 USC §119(e), this non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61 / 980,291, filed April 16, 2014, entitled “FASTENING INSTRUMENTS AND FASTENING CARTRIDGES FOR USE THEREWITH”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0004] This invention relates to suturing instruments, and in various embodiments to a surgical suturing instrument for preparing one or more rows of staples.

[0005] The suturing instrument may include a pair of cooperating elongated jaw members, each adapted for insertion into a patient and positioned relative to tissue to be sutured and / or cut. In various embodiments, one jaw member may support a staple cartridge containing at least two laterally spaced staple rows, and the other jaw member may support an anvil with staple-forming recesses aligned with the staple rows in the cartridge. Generally, the suturing instrument may also include a push rod and a blade slidable relative to the jaw members to sequentially eject staples from the staple cartridge via a cam surface on the push rod and / or a cam surface on a wedge-shaped slide member pressed by the push rod. In at least one embodiment, the cam surface may be configured to actuate a plurality of staple actuators carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples to press the staples against the anvil and form laterally spaced deformed staple rows in the tissue held between the jaw members. In at least one embodiment, the blade may follow the cam surface and cut the tissue along the path between the staple rows. Examples of such suturing instruments are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,794,475, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURINGTISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME”, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0006] The above discussion is merely illustrative of various aspects of the relevant technology in the present technical field and should not be construed as a denial of the scope of the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0007] The various features of the embodiments described herein are described in detail in the appended claims. However, various embodiments of the organization and method of operation, and their advantages, can be understood in conjunction with the following figures and the following description:

[0008] Figure 1 A front view of a surgical suture instrument;

[0009] Figure 2 For along Figure 1 The line 2-2 cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical suturing instrument;

[0010] Figure 3 for Figure 1 A cross-sectional perspective view of the end effector;

[0011] Figure 4 To illustrate the unfired nail contained therein Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the end effector;

[0012] Figure 5 To illustrate the firing configuration Figure 4 A diagram of a nail;

[0013] Figure 6 This illustrates the tissue being used for suturing and transverse cutting. Figure 1 A diagram of an end effector;

[0014] Figure 7 A perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one embodiment;

[0015] Figure 8 for Figure 7 Detailed diagram of the staple cartridge;

[0016] Figure 8A for Figure 7 A cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge;

[0017] Figure 9 To show that it is positioned in the limited Figure 7 Detailed diagram of the nails inside the nail chamber of the nail cartridge;

[0018] Figure 10 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple lateral ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0019] Figure 11A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple lateral ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0020] Figure 12 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of ridges surrounding a staple cavity opening defined in a cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0021] Figure 13 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of ridges surrounding a staple cavity opening defined in a cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0022] Figure 14 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple knurled ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0023] Figure 15 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple knurled ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0024] Figure 15A A perspective view of a pyramidal knurling according to at least one embodiment;

[0025] Figure 15B A perspective view of a truncated conical knurled surface according to at least one embodiment;

[0026] Figure 15C A perspective view of triangular knurling according to at least one embodiment;

[0027] Figure 16 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of ridges completely surrounding a staple cavity opening defined in a cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0028] Figure 16A A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge comprising a plurality of ridges completely surrounding a staple cavity opening defined in a cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0029] Figure 17 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including multiple longitudinal ridges extending from the cartridge body, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

[0030] Figure 18 for Figure 17 Detailed diagram of the staple cartridge;

[0031] Figure 19 A perspective view of a surgical instrument having an interchangeable shaft assembly operatively connected to the surgical instrument.

[0032] Figure 20 for Figure 19 Exploded assembly diagram of interchangeable shaft assemblies and surgical instruments;

[0033] Figure 21 for Figure 19 and Figure 20 A disassembled assembly diagram of a part of a surgical instrument;

[0034] Figure 22 To show Figures 19 to 21 Another exploded assembly diagram of the interchangeable shaft assembly and surgical instruments;

[0035] Figure 23 A perspective view of a staple cartridge positioned in an end effector of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment, wherein the staple cartridge includes a plurality of ridges extending from the cartridge body.

[0036] Figure 24 A front view of a nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0037] Figure 25 For the nail cavity positioned in the nail cartridge Figure 24 A front view of the nail;

[0038] Figure 26 A front view of a nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0039] Figure 27 A front view of an asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0040] Figure 28 A front view of another asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0041] Figure 29 A front view of another asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0042] Figure 30 To show a front view of a nail in a partially deformed state;

[0043] Figure 31 For being in a fully deformed state Figure 30 A front view of the nail;

[0044] Figure 32 This is a bottom perspective view of a narrow channel;

[0045] Figure 33 A cross-sectional perspective view of another narrow channel;

[0046] Figure 34 for Figure 33 Another cross-sectional view of the elongated channel, in which the cutting head is schematically shown;

[0047] Figure 35 for Figure 33 and Figure 34 Bottom view of the narrow channel;

[0048] Figure 36 This is a bottom view of another narrow channel;

[0049] Figure 37 This is a bottom view of another narrow channel;

[0050] Figure 38 This is a bottom view of another narrow channel;

[0051] Figure 39 This is a bottom view of another narrow channel;

[0052] Figure 40 A partial side view of the elongated channel and the cutting head, wherein the elongated channel is shown in cross-section and a portion of the surgical cartridge is omitted for clarity, and wherein the cutting head is in the unlocked position and ready to fire;

[0053] Figure 41 for Figure 40 Another partial side view of the elongated channel and the cutting head, wherein the cutting head is offset in the locked position;

[0054] Figure 42 Perspective view of the implementation scheme for the cutting head and firing lever;

[0055] Figure 43 Perspective view of the actuator and shaft at the other end;

[0056] Figure 44 for Figure 43 Another perspective view of the end effector and shaft construction, in which a portion of the outer shaft has been omitted for clarity;

[0057] Figure 45 A partial side view of the actuator and shaft at the other end;

[0058] Figure 46 A partial side front view of the end effector, in which the elongated channel has been omitted for clarity;

[0059] Figure 47 A top view of the anvil placement embodiment;

[0060] Figure 48 A top view of another anvil embodiment;

[0061] Figure 49 A cross-sectional view of an end effector of a surgical instrument according to at least one embodiment, the end effector including a staple cartridge including a stepped cartridge platform;

[0062] Figure 49A This illustrates various clearance heights between the stepped storage platform and the anvil positioned opposite it. Figure 49 The same cross-sectional view shown;

[0063] Figure 50 A front view of an asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0064] Figure 51 A front view of another asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0065] Figure 52 A front view of another asymmetric nail according to at least one embodiment;

[0066] Figure 53 A perspective view of a nail slider according to at least one embodiment;

[0067] Figure 54 for Figure 53 A top view of the nail slider;

[0068] Figure 54A To illustrate the near-side unfired position Figure 53 The sliding pin Figure 23 A partial top view of the staple cartridge;

[0069] Figure 54B for Figure 23 A partial cross-sectional perspective view of the staple cartridge;

[0070] Figure 54C for Figure 23 A partial rear perspective view of the staple cartridge;

[0071] Figure 54D for Figure 53 A perspective view of the nail slider;

[0072] Figure 55 for Figure 23 A perspective view of the distal end of the staple cartridge;

[0073] Figure 55A From Figure 23 A perspective view of the protruding part of the staple cartridge extension;

[0074] Figure 56 A perspective view of a staple cartridge including a ridge pattern extending from the platform of the staple cartridge, according to at least one embodiment;

[0075] Figure 57 for Figure 56 The spine pattern of the staple cartridge and detailed diagram of the platform;

[0076] Figure 58A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including a ridge pattern extending from the platform of the staple cartridge, according to at least one embodiment;

[0077] Figure 59 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including a protrusion pattern defined in a platform according to at least one embodiment;

[0078] Figure 60 for Figure 59 Detailed view of the protrusion shown;

[0079] Figure 61 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge, including a dome pattern extending from a platform, according to at least one embodiment.

[0080] Figure 62 for Figure 61 A detailed view of the dome shown;

[0081] Figure 63 A partial perspective view of a protrusion extending from the platform of the staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

[0082] Figure 64 An exploded perspective view of the surgical staple cartridge and its cover;

[0083] Figure 65 for Figure 64 A cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge and its cover, with the cover mounted on the staple cartridge;

[0084] Figure 66 A perspective view of an anvil of a surgical suturing instrument including a protrusion extending therefrom, according to at least one embodiment;

[0085] Figure 67 for Figure 66 Detailed view of the protrusion shown;

[0086] Figure 68 A partial perspective view of an anvil of a surgical suturing instrument including a protrusion extending therefrom, according to at least one embodiment;

[0087] Figure 69 A cross-sectional view of the anvil of a surgical suturing instrument according to at least one embodiment, the anvil including a first array of protrusions having a first height adjacent to a first row of staple recesses, a second array of protrusions having a second height adjacent to a second row of staple recesses, and a third array of protrusions having a third height adjacent to a third row of staple recesses.

[0088] Figure 70 A perspective view of a staple cartridge including a protrusion extending from the stepped platform surface of the staple cartridge, according to at least one embodiment;

[0089] Figure 71 for Figure 70 Detailed view of the distal end and protrusion of the stepped platform surface;

[0090] Figure 72 for Figure 70 Detailed view of the proximal end and protrusion of the stepped platform surface;

[0091] Figure 73 A perspective view of a staple cartridge including a protrusion extending from the stepped platform surface of the staple cartridge, according to at least one embodiment;

[0092] Figure 74 A partial perspective view of a pin cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

[0093] Figure 75 A cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical suturing instrument comprising multiple deployable tissue joining components according to at least one embodiment;

[0094] Figure 76 A cross-sectional view of the end effector of a surgical suturing instrument including multiple protrusions extending from the surface of a stepped bin platform, according to at least one embodiment;

[0095] Figure 77 A cross-sectional view of the platform of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, and a protrusion extending from the platform configured to support the staple when it is deployed from the staple cavity;

[0096] Figure 78 A cross-sectional view of another compartment platform of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, and a protrusion extending from the platform configured to support the staple when it is deployed from the staple cavity;

[0097] Figure 79 A partial plan view of a staple cartridge platform including a protrusion extending from a platform according to at least one embodiment, the platform being configured to support staples removably stored in a staple cavity defined in the staple cartridge;

[0098] Figure 80 A partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge including a first protrusion and a second protrusion according to at least one embodiment, the first protrusion being configured to support a first leg of a staple removably positioned within a staple cavity, and the second protrusion being configured to support a second leg of the staple.

[0099] Figure 81 A perspective view of the distal end of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge including a platform, a plurality of staple cavities defined in the platform, and various protrusions extending from the platform;

[0100] Figure 82A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge including a platform, a plurality of staple cavities defined in the platform, and a plurality of protrusions extending from the platform, the protrusions surrounding the ends of some of the staple cavities but not the ends of other staple cavities;

[0101] Figure 83 A partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge including a platform, a plurality of staple cavities defined in the platform, and a plurality of protrusions extending from the platform, the protrusions surrounding certain ends of the staple cavities but not the other ends;

[0102] Figure 84 A partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment, the staple cartridge comprising: a platform and a plurality of staple cavities defined in the platform; a staple array positioned in the staple cavities extending between a proximal end and a distal end of the staple cartridge, wherein the staple array comprises various staples; and a protrusion array extending from the platform between the proximal end and the distal end of the staple cartridge, wherein the protrusion array comprises various heights;

[0103] Figure 85A A partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge platform and a protrusion extending from the platform according to at least one embodiment, wherein the protrusion is made of a compliant material and is shown in an uncompressed state;

[0104] Figure 85B To show the protrusion in a partially compressed state Figure 85A A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge platform and protrusion;

[0105] Figure 85C To show the protrusion in a compressed state Figure 85A A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge platform and protrusion;

[0106] Figure 86A A partial cross-sectional view of a staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body made of flexible material in an unbent state, according to at least one embodiment;

[0107] Figure 86B To be shown in a bent state Figure 86A A partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge;

[0108] Figure 87 A perspective view of an anvil including a plurality of protrusions extending from the anvil according to at least one embodiment;

[0109] Figure 88 for Figure 87 A detailed view of a portion of the anvil;

[0110] Figure 89A partial perspective view of an anvil including a plurality of protrusions extending from the anvil, according to at least one embodiment;

[0111] Figure 90 A perspective view of an assembly including a nail driver and a movable recess extension according to at least one embodiment;

[0112] Figure 91 for Figure 90 An exploded view of the components;

[0113] Figure 92 To utilize Figure 90 A cross-sectional perspective view of the pin pod, which is shown as a component in an undeployed state;

[0114] Figure 93 To show the state of deployment Figure 90 Components and those in an undeployed state Figure 90 The components Figure 92 A cross-sectional front view of the staple cartridge;

[0115] Figure 94 A top view of the surgical nail driver;

[0116] Figure 95 for Figure 94 Perspective view of the surgical nail driver;

[0117] Figure 96 Perspective view of another surgical nail driver;

[0118] Figure 97 A top view of the staple driver recess located in a part of a surgical staple cartridge;

[0119] Figure 98 A front view of an anvil, including protrusions of different heights extending from the anvil, according to at least one embodiment;

[0120] Figure 99 A perspective view of a fastener bin according to at least one embodiment;

[0121] Figure 100 for Figure 99 Floor plan of the fastener compartment;

[0122] Figure 101 for Figure 99 A partial perspective view of the proximal end of the fastener compartment; and

[0123] Figure 102 for Figure 99 A partial plan view of the near end of the fastener compartment.

[0124] Throughout the various views, corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding components. The examples shown herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention in one form, and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. Detailed Implementation

[0125] The applicant of this patent application owns the following patent applications, which were filed on the same day as this patent application and are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

[0126] The serial number of the U.S. patent application entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONS HAVING DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS" (Agent's file number END7460USNP / 140136) is __________.

[0127] The U.S. patent application serial number for the titled "END EFFECTOR COMPRISING AN ANVIL INCLUDING PROJECTIONSEXTENDING THEREFROM" (Agent's file number END7462USNP / 140138) is __________.

[0128] The serial number of the U.S. patent application entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS" (Agent's file number END7463USNP / 140139) is __________;

[0129] The U.S. patent application serial number for the titled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS" (Agent's file number END7464USNP / 140140) is __________;

[0130] The serial number of the U.S. patent application entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS" (Agent's file number END7465USNP / 140141) is __________;

[0131] The serial number of the U.S. patent application entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGINGMEMBERS" (Agent's file number END7466USNP / 140142) is __________;

[0132] The serial number of the U.S. patent application entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES" (Agent's file number END7467USNP / 140143) is __________;

[0133] The U.S. patent application serial number for the titled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVERARRANGEMENTS" (Agent's file number END7468USNP / 140144) is __________; and

[0134] The U.S. patent application serial number for the titled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED THERETO” (Agent’s file number END7469USNP / 140145) is __________.

[0135] The applicant of this patent application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 1, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0136] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,295, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FORSIGNAL COMMUNICATION”;

[0137] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,323, entitled "ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0138] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,338, entitled "THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS";

[0139] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,499, entitled "ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT";

[0140] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,460, entitled "MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS";

[0141] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,358, entitled JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0142] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,481, entitled SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR;

[0143] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,518, entitled "CONTROL METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLEIMPLEMENT PORTIONS";

[0144] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,375, entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OFFREEDOM"; and

[0145] The U.S. patent application serial number is 13 / 782,536, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP".

[0146] The applicant of this patent application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 14, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0147] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,097, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE”;

[0148] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,193, entitled “CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF ASURGICALINSTRUMENT”;

[0149] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,053, entitled “Interchangelable shaft assemblies for use with a Surgicalinstrument”;

[0150] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,086, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATIONLOCK”;

[0151] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,210, entitled “SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FORSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0152] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,148, entitled “MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”;

[0153] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,066, entitled “DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0154] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,117, entitled “ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0155] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,130, entitled “DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”; and

[0156] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 803,159, entitled “METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT”.

[0157] The applicant of this patent application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0158] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,106, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0159] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,099, entitled “STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT”;

[0160] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,094, entitled “VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES / PROCEDURE COUNT”;

[0161] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,117, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUITAND WAKE UP CONTROL”;

[0162] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,075, entitled “MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFTASSEMBLIES”;

[0163] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,093, entitled “FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS”;

[0164] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,116, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION”;

[0165] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,071, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING ASAFETY PROCESSOR”;

[0166] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,097, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS”;

[0167] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,126, entitled “INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0168] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,133, entitled “MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM”;

[0169] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,081, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING ASEGMENTED CIRCUIT”;

[0170] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,076, entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION”;

[0171] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,111, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM”; and

[0172] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 226,125, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT”.

[0173] The applicant of this patent application also owns other U.S. patent applications identified below, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

[0174] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,311 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080496), entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH RECONFIGURABLE SHAFT SEGMENTS”;

[0175] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,340 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080482), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES SUPPORTING NON-LINEARLY ARRANGEDSTAPLES AND SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH COMMON STAPLE-FORMING POCKETS”;

[0176] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,327 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080499), entitled “JAW CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS”;

[0177] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,351 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080502), entitled “SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT FASTENER DEPLOYMENT AND TISSUE CUTTING SYSTEMS”;

[0178] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,338 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080481) entitled “IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE HAVING A NON-UNIFORMARRANGEMENT”;

[0179] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,369 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080344), entitled “IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING ASUPPORT RETAINER”;

[0180] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,312 entitled “IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING MULTIPLE LAYERS” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080479);

[0181] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,377 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,393,514) entitled “SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE”;

[0182] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,339 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080500), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH COMPACT ARTICULATION CONTROLARRANGEMENT”;

[0183] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,360 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080484), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH A VARIABLE STAPLE FORMING SYSTEM”;

[0184] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,322 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,740,034) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH INTERCHANGEABLE STAPLECARTRIDGE ARRANGEMENTS”;

[0185] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,350 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080478), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH DETACHABLE SUPPORT STRUCTURES”;

[0186] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,383 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,752,699) entitled “IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING BIOABSORBABLE LAYERS”;

[0187] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,389 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,740,037) entitled “COMPRESSIBLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE”;

[0188] The U.S. patent application serial number 12 / 894,345, entitled “FASTENERS SUPPORTED BY A FASTENER CARTRIDGE SUPPORT” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080483);

[0189] The U.S. patent application serial number 12 / 894,306 entitled “COLLAPSIBLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080332);

[0190] The U.S. patent application serial number 12 / 894,318 entitled “FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF CONNECTED RETENTIONMATRIX ELEMENTS” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080480);

[0191] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,330 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,757,465) entitled “FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND AN ALIGNMENT MATRIX”;

[0192] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,361 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,529,600), entitled “FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX”;

[0193] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,367 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080485), entitled “FASTENING INSTRUMENT FOR DEPLOYING A FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX”;

[0194] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 894,388 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,474,677), entitled “FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A RETENTION MATRIX AND A COVER”;

[0195] The U.S. patent application serial number 12 / 894,376 entitled “FASTENER SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF FASTENER CARTRIDGES” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080486);

[0196] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,865 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080488), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER ANVIL COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF FORMINGPOCKETS”;

[0197] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,936 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,657,176) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR FOR A SURGICAL STAPLER”;

[0198] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,954 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080340) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A VARIABLE THICKNESS COMPRESSIBLEPORTION”;

[0199] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,856 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080336) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES POSITIONED WITHIN A COMPPRESSIBLE PORTION THEREOF”;

[0200] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,928 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,746,535) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING DETACHABLE PORTIONS”;

[0201] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,891 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080489), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR FOR A SURGICAL STAPLER COMPRISINGAN ADJUSTABLE ANVIL”;

[0202] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,948 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0083836), entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING AN ADJUSTABLE DISTAL PORTION”;

[0203] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,907 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080338) entitled “COMPRESSIBLE STAPLE CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLY”;

[0204] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,861 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080337) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING PORTIONS HAVING DIFFERENT PROPERTIES”;

[0205] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,869 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0160721) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE LOADING ASSEMBLY”;

[0206] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,917 entitled “COMPRESSIBLE STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING ALIGNMENT MEMBERS” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0083834);

[0207] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,873 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,740,038) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A RELEASABLE PORTION”;

[0208] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,938 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080491) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING COMPRESSIBLE DISTORTION RESISTANT COMPONENTS”;

[0209] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 097,924 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0083835) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR”;

[0210] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 242,029 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080493), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER WITH FLOATING ANVIL”;

[0211] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 242,066 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080498), entitled “CURVED END EFFECTOR FOR A STAPLING INSTRUMENT”;

[0212] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 242,086 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0075450) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE INCLUDING COLLAPSIBLE DECK”;

[0213] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 241,912, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE INCLUDING COLLAPSIBLE DECK ARRANGEMENT” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0075448);

[0214] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 241,922 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0075449) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLER WITH STATIONARY STAPLE DRIVERS”;

[0215] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 241,637 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0074201), entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH TRIGGER ASSEMBLY FOR GENERATING MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTIONS”;

[0216] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 241,629 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0074200), entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SELECTIVELY ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR”;

[0217] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,096, entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING APLURALITY OF CAPSULES” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241496);

[0218] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,103 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241498) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING APLURALITY OF LAYERS”;

[0219] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,098 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241491) entitled “Expansive Tissue Thickness Compensator”;

[0220] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,102 entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING ARE SERVOIR” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241497);

[0221] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,114 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241499), entitled “RETAINER ASSEMBLY INCLUDING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR”;

[0222] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,136 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241492), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE MEDICAMENT”;

[0223] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,141 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241493), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING CONTROLLED RELEASE AND EXPANSION”;

[0224] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,144 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241500), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING FIBERS TO PRODUCE ARESILIENT LOAD”;

[0225] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,148 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241501), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING STRUCTURE TO PRODUCE ARESILIENT LOAD”;

[0226] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,155 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241502), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING RESILIENT MEMBERS”;

[0227] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,163 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0248169) entitled “METHODS FOR FORMING TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR ARRANGEMENTSFOR SURGICAL STAPLERS”;

[0228] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,167 entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATORS” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241503);

[0229] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,175 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0253298) entitled “LAYERED TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR”;

[0230] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,179 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0241505), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATORS FOR CIRCULAR SURGICAL STAPLERS”;

[0231] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,028 entitled “ADHESIVE FILM LAMINATE” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0146643);

[0232] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,115 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256372) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING CAPSULES DEFINING ALOW PRESSURE ENVIRONMENT”;

[0233] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,118 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256365), entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISED OF APLURALITY OF MATERIALS”;

[0234] The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 433,135, entitled “MOVABLE MEMBER FOR USE WITH A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256382);

[0235] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,140, ​​entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256368);

[0236] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,129 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256367) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING APLURALITY OF MEDICAMENTS”;

[0237] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 216,562 (now U.S. Patent No. 7,669,746) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR FORMING STAPLES HAVING DIFFERING FORMEDSTAPLE HEIGHTS”;

[0238] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 714,049 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0194082) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH ANVIL HAVING STAPLE FORMINGPOCKETS OF VARYING DEPTHS”;

[0239] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 711,979 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,317,070) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES THAT PRODUCE FORMED STAPLES HAVINGDIFFERENT LENGTHS”;

[0240] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 711,975 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007 / 0194079), entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH STAPLE DRIVERS OF DIFFERENT HEIGHT”;

[0241] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 711,977 (now U.S. Patent No. 7,673,781) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH STAPLE DRIVER THAT SUPPORTSMULTIPLE WIRE DIAMETER STAPLES”;

[0242] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11 / 712,315 (now U.S. Patent No. 7,500,979) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH MULTIPLE STACKED ACTUATOR WEDGECAMS FOR DRIVING STAPLE DRIVERS”;

[0243] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 038,939 (now U.S. Patent No. 7,934,630) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR FORMING STAPLES HAVING DIFFERING FORMEDSTAPLE HEIGHTS”;

[0244] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 020,263 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,636,187) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS THAT PRODUCE FORMED STAPLES HAVINGDIFFERENT LENGTHS”;

[0245] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 118,278 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011 / 0290851) entitled “ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES THAT PRODUCEFORMED STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT LENGTHS”;

[0246] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 369,629 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0138660) entitled “ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED CABLE-BASED SURGICAL END EFFECTORS”;

[0247] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 695,359 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,464,923) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES FOR FORMING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENTFORMED HEIGHTS”;

[0248] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 072,923 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,567,656) entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR FORMING STAPLES HAVING DIFFERING FORMEDSTAPLE HEIGHTS”;

[0249] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 766,325 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256380), entitled “LAYER OF MATERIAL FOR A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR”;

[0250] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,078 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256383), entitled “ANVIL LAYER ATTACHED TO A PROXIMAL END OF AN END EFFECTOR”;

[0251] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,094 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256377) entitled “LAYER COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE ATTACHMENT MEMBERS”;

[0252] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,106 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256378) entitled “END EFFECTOR COMPRISING A DISTAL TISSUE ABUTMENT MEMBER”;

[0253] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,147 entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING CHANNELS” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256369);

[0254] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,112 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256379) entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING CARTRIDGE WITH LAYER RETENTION FEATURES”;

[0255] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,035 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0214030) entitled “ACTUATOR FOR RELEASING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR FROM AFASTENER CARTRIDGE”;

[0256] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,042 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0221063) entitled “RELEASABLE TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR AND FASTENER CARTRIDGEHAVING THE SAME”;

[0257] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,048 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0221064) entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A RELEASABLE TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR”;

[0258] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,054 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0097227) entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER FOR RELEASING ATISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR”;

[0259] The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 763,065 entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A RELEASABLY ATTACHED TISSUETHICKNESS COMPENSATOR” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0221065);

[0260] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,021, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A RELEASABLE COVER”;

[0261] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,078 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256383), entitled “ANVIL LAYER ATTACHED TO A PROXIMAL END OF AN END EFFECTOR”;

[0262] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,095 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0161374), entitled “LAYER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES”;

[0263] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 463,147 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0292398), entitled “IMPLANTABLE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES”;

[0264] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,192 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0146642), entitled “MULTIPLE THICKNESS IMPLANTABLE LAYERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLINGDEVICES”;

[0265] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,161 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0153641) entitled “RELEASABLE LAYER OF MATERIAL AND SURGICAL END EFFECTOR HAVINGTHE SAME”;

[0266] The U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 763,177 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0146641) entitled “ACTUATOR FOR RELEASING A LAYER OF MATERIAL FROM A SURGICAL ENDEFFECTOR”;

[0267] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 763,037, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A COMPRESSIBLE PORTION”;

[0268] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,126 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256366) entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING TISSUE INGROWTHFEATURES”;

[0269] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 433,132 (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2013 / 0256373), entitled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR ATTACHING TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATING MATERIALS TO SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS”.

[0270] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 851,703, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATORINCLUDING OPENINGS THEREIN”;

[0271] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 851,676, entitled “TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING ACUTTING MEMBER PATH”;

[0272] U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 851,693, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES”;

[0273] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 851,684, entitled “FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING A TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR AND A GAP SETTING ELEMENT”;

[0274] The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 187,387 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A BARBED STAPLE” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0166724);

[0275] The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 187,395 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A BARBED STAPLE” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0166725);

[0276] The U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 187,400 entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A BARBED STAPLE” (now U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014 / 0166726);

[0277] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 187,383, entitled “Implantable Layers and Methods for Altering Implantable Layers for Use with Surgical Fastening Instructions”;

[0278] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 187,386, entitled “Implantable Layers and Methods for Altering One or More Properties of Implantable Layers for Use with Fastening Instructions”;

[0279] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 187,390, entitled “Implantable Layers and Methods for Modifying the Shape of the Implantable Layers for Use with a Surgical Fastening Instruction”;

[0280] U.S. patent application serial number 14 / 187,389, entitled “IMPLANTABLE LAYER ASSEMBLIES”;

[0281] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 187,385, entitled “Implantable Layers Comprising a Presed Regiion”; and

[0282] U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 187,384, entitled “FASTENING SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT”.

[0283] Many specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments can be implemented without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and therefore will recognize that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are representative and exemplary. Variations and modifications may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0284] 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 that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "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 can be combined wholly or partially with features, structures, or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. Moreover, it should be understood that, for the sake of brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "up," and "down" may be used, for example, with reference to the illustrated embodiments. However, these terms are for the reader's assistance and are not intended to be limiting or absolute.

[0285] Go to Figure 1The surgical suturing and cutting instrument 10 may include a handle portion 12 that can be manipulated to position a tool portion 14 in a surgical site. In various embodiments, the tool portion 14 may include an end effector 16 attached to an elongated shaft 18. In many cases, the tool portion 14 may be sized and configured to be inserted into the surgical site via a cannula (not shown) to perform, for example, endoscopic or laparoscopic surgery. The end effector 16 may include an upper jaw or anvil 20 and a lower jaw 22, wherein the anvil 20 can move between an open and closed position when the pistol-like grip 26 toward the handle portion 12 is moved or the closing trigger 24 of the handle portion 12 is pressed. In various embodiments, pressing the closing trigger 24 advances an outer closing sleeve 28 of the elongated shaft 18, wherein the outer closing sleeve 28 contacts the anvil 20 and pivots the anvil 20 into its closed position. In some cases, the surgeon may rotate the tool portion 14 about its longitudinal axis by turning a shaft knob 30. In any case, once the end effector 16 has been inserted into the inflated body cavity, the closure trigger 24 can be released, for example, allowing the anvil 20 to be biased by a spring (not shown) and positioned relative to the target tissue. In various embodiments, the closure trigger 24 can be locked in its depressed state, and in at least one embodiment, the handle portion 12 may also include a locking release actuator 44 that can be pressed to unlock the closure trigger 24. Once the anvil 20 and lower jaw 22 are properly positioned relative to the tissue in the surgical site, the closure trigger 24 can be pressed again to close the anvil 20 and compress the tissue against the staple cartridge 42 attached to the lower jaw 22.

[0286] Once the anvil 20 is closed, the firing trigger 32 can be pulled or pressed toward the closing trigger 24 and the pistol grip 26 to apply firing force or motion to the firing member and advance the firing member from the non-firing position. In various embodiments, the firing member may include a proximal firing lever 34 attached to the distal firing lever 36. In at least one such embodiment, the firing lever 34 and / or the firing lever 36 may be supported within a frame 38 in a shaft 18 that extends between the shank portion 12 and the end effector 16. Due to the firing motion applied to the firing member, the firing lever 36 may be advanced distally within the elongated cartridge channel 40 of the lower jaw 22 and within the cartridge 42 positioned within the cartridge channel 40. In various embodiments, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 2 The firing lever 36 may include an attachment portion 48 attached to an E-stick 50 that is translatable within the end effector 16. The E-stick 50 may include a vertical portion 52 that, when the E-stick 50 is advanced distally, passes through a narrow longitudinal anvil slot 58 extending through a tissue contact surface 60 in the anvil 20, a narrow vertical slot 62 in the staple cartridge 42, and a narrow longitudinal channel slot 64 in the elongated staple channel 40. See now. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Anvil slot 58 may extend upward into anvil 20 and may include an end that opens into a laterally widened longitudinal channel 66, the laterally widened longitudinal channel 66 being sized and configured to receive an upper pin 54 extending laterally from the vertical portion 52. Similarly, channel slot 64 may extend downward into channel 40 and may include an end that opens into a laterally widened longitudinal channel 68, the laterally widened longitudinal channel 68 being sized and configured to receive one or more lower pins 70 extending laterally from the vertical portion 52.

[0287] In various embodiments, as further described above, the E-post 50 may also include one or more intermediate pins 72 that extend laterally from the vertical portion 52 and are configured to slide along the top surface of the chassis 74 of the staple cartridge 42. In some embodiments, the intermediate pins 72 may be configured to secure the staple cartridge 42 or ensure that the staple cartridge 42 remains located in the channel 40. The longitudinal firing recess 75 formed in the staple cartridge 42 above the chassis 74 is sized to allow the intermediate pins 72 to translate through the staple cartridge 42. In various embodiments, the E-post 50 may also include a wedge-shaped slider 78 that is translatably driven through a vertical slot 62 in the staple cartridge 42 and distally through a distal drive surface 76 of the staple cartridge 42. In some embodiments, the wedge-shaped slider 78 may be integrally formed within the E-post 50, while in other embodiments, the wedge-shaped slider 78 may reside in the staple cartridge 42 and contact the drive surface 76 as the E-post 50 is advanced distally. The vertical portion 52 of the E-pillar 50 may also include a cutting surface 80 extending along the distal edge above the distal drive surface 76 and below the upper pin 54, which cuts the held tissue 46 as it is being sutured. See now. Figure 4 The wedge-shaped slider 78 may be configured to engage one or more nail drivers 82 and drive the nail drivers 82 upward toward the anvil 20. In various embodiments, nails, such as nail 83, may be located on and / or otherwise supported by the nail drivers 82, such that when the nail drivers 82 are lifted upward, the nail 83 is also lifted upward. In at least one such embodiment, the nail 83 may also be at least partially positioned within a nail cavity or recess 84 in the nail cartridge body 85 of the nail cartridge 42, wherein when the nail 83 is lifted upward, the nail 83 may contact the anvil 20 and may be ejected from the nail cavity 84. In at least one embodiment, see again Figure 4 The chassis 74 can be attached to the housing 85 to hold the nail driver 82 and the nail 83 within the nail cartridge 42 until the nail 83 is deployed from it as described above.

[0288] See now Figure 5 and 6In use, the anvil 20 can be positioned on one side of the tissue 46 and the bottom jaws 22 can be positioned on the opposite side of the tissue 46, such that when the anvil 20 is closed onto the tissue, the tissue contact surface 60 of the anvil 20 and the tissue contact platform 90 of the staple cartridge 42 can compress the tissue 46 between the uncompressed thickness 91 and the compressed thickness 92. As described above, in order to suture and transversely cut the tissue 46, a wedge-shaped slide 78 can be advanced distally within the staple cartridge 42 to lift the staple driver 82 toward the anvil 20 and deform the staples 83. In various embodiments, each staple driver 82 may include one or more slots defined therein that can be configured to receive and releasably retain the staples 83 in place. In at least one such embodiment, each staple 83 may include one or more staple legs 88 extending from the base 87, wherein the staple legs 88 may extend upward into the staple cavity 84. In various embodiments, when the nail 83 is in its unfired position, the ends of the nail legs 88 may be recessed relative to the platform or tissue contact surface 90 of the housing 85. When the nail 83 is lifted upward by the actuator 82, the ends of the nail legs 88 may exit the nail cavity 84, penetrate the tissue 46, and contact the anvil forming recess 89 positioned opposite the nail cavity 84. The anvil forming recess 89 may be configured to allow the nail 83 to deform into any suitable shape, such as, for example, shown in Figure 5 The B-shaped form in [the text]. See now [the text]. Figure 6 When the nail 83 is deployed, the cutting blade 80 can cut across the tissue 46 and enter the suture portion 94.

[0289] As described above, the jaw members of the end effector can be configured to apply compressive pressure or force to the tissue being sutured. However, in many cases, the tissue may be slippery and at least a portion of the tissue may slide relative to the jaw members. In some cases, the tissue may slide out from the distal end of the end effector in a longitudinal direction and / or from the side of the end effector in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction. In some cases, when the tissue is compressed, portions of the tissue may be extruded from the distal end of the end effector and / or from the side of the end effector. In many embodiments disclosed herein, the staple cartridge may include one or more tissue-retaining features configured to prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of movement of tissue positioned within the end effector relative to the end effector.

[0290] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 7 and Figure 8 A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 142, may include a cartridge body 185 and a plurality of staples, such as staples 187, positioned within the cartridge body 185. Figure 9The cartridge body 185 may include a proximal end 141 and a distal end 143, wherein the proximal end 141 may be configured to be inserted into the proximal end of the staple cartridge channel and the distal end 143 may be configured to be inserted into the distal end of the staple cartridge channel. In at least one embodiment, the cartridge body 185 may include a plurality of staple cavities 184, each configured to receive staples 187. In some alternative embodiments, although not shown, a staple cavity may include more than one staple positioned therein. In any case, the staple cavities 184 may be arranged in a plurality of rows within the cartridge body 185. More specifically, in at least one embodiment, the staple cavities 184 may, for example, be arranged in three rows on a first side 145 of the cartridge body 185 and in three rows on a second side 147 of the cartridge body 185. In at least one such embodiment, the first side 145 and the second side 147 of the cartridge body 185 may be spaced apart by a blade slot 162, which may be configured to slidably receive a cutting member therein. In various other embodiments, the staple cartridge may include, for example, any other suitable number of staple rows on each side of the blade slot 162, such as, for example, two or four staple rows. See also Figure 9 In various embodiments, the staple cartridge 142 may also include a plurality of staple drivers 182 configured to support the staples 187 and / or eject the staples 187 from the staple chambers 184. In some embodiments, each staple chamber 184 may include an open end or opening 110 located in a platform 190 of the cartridge body 185 through which the staples 187 are ejected.

[0291] For various implementation schemes, see mainly Figure 8The cavities 184 can be arranged such that they are longitudinally staggered relative to each other. For example, the cavities 184 on the first side 145 of the housing 185 can be arranged in the innermost row, the middle row, and the outermost row of cavities 184, wherein the cavities 184 in one row may not be laterally aligned with the cavities 184 in one or two other rows. In at least one embodiment, each cavity 184 may include a proximal end 111 and a distal end 112, wherein the proximal end 111 of each cavity 184 may be positioned closer to the proximal end 141 of the housing 185 than the distal end 112. Similarly, the distal end 112 of each cavity 184 may be positioned closer to the distal end 143 of the housing 185 than the proximal end 111. In various embodiments, the innermost row of nail cavities 184 can be positioned such that the distal end 112 of the nail cavity 184 in the innermost row is positioned distally relative to the distal end 112 of the nail cavity 184 in the middle row of nail cavities 184. Similarly, the outermost row of nail cavities 184 can be positioned such that the distal end 112 of the nail cavity 184 in the outermost row is positioned distally relative to the distal end 112 of the nail cavity in the middle row of nail cavities 184. For example, the farthest nail cavity 184 in the innermost row can be positioned distally relative to the farthest nail cavity 184 in the middle row, and similarly, the farthest nail cavity 184 in the outermost row can be positioned distally relative to the farthest nail cavity 184 in the middle row. In some embodiments, the innermost row of nail cavities 184 and the outermost row of nail cavities 184 may be laterally aligned with each other such that (1) the distal end 112 of the innermost nail cavity 184 is aligned with the distal end 112 of the outermost nail cavity 184, and (2) the proximal end 111 of the innermost nail cavity 184 is aligned with the proximal end 111 of the outermost nail cavity 184. In various embodiments, each nail cavity 184 and its opening 110 may have the same or at least substantially the same configuration, and in at least one embodiment, the nail cavities 184 may be equidistant or at least substantially equidistant from each other within the nail row.

[0292] See again in the various implementation schemes. Figure 7 and 8 The cartridge body 185 of the staple cartridge 142 may also include one or more ridges, such as ridges 113, 114, and 115, configured to contact and compress target tissue. More specifically, see now. Figure 8AThe anvil 120 of the end effector can be closed to compress tissue T against the cartridge 142, wherein in such cases, the tissue contact platform 190 and the ridges 113, 114, and 115 extending therefrom can engage the tissue. In some cases, when the anvil 120 is closed, the anvil 120 can push the tissue toward the cartridge 142, such that the tissue first contacts the ridges 113, 114, and 115 and subsequently contacts the cartridge platform 190. In other cases, the cartridge 142 can be positioned against the tissue such that the ridges 113, 114, and 115 contact the tissue before it contacts the cartridge platform 190. In any case, once the ridges 113, 114, and 115 contact the tissue, they can prevent or at least limit relative movement between the tissue and the cartridge 142. In some embodiments, ridges 113, 114, and 115 may extend upward from a flat or at least substantially flat storage platform 190 and may define one or more recesses or channels, which may, for example, be configured to receive a portion of tissue and thus inhibit relative movement of tissue in the longitudinal and / or transverse directions of the end effector, particularly when the tissue is compressed at least partially between the anvil 120 and ridges 113, 114, and 115. In various embodiments, as ridges 113, 114, and 115 extend above storage platform 190, tissue positioned between anvil 120 and ridges 113, 114, and 115 may be compressed prior to tissue positioned between anvil 120 and storage platform 190. Thus, in some such cases, tissue positioned between anvil 120 and ridges 113, 114, and 115 may be pre-compressed (i.e., at least partially compressed) prior to compression of other portions of tissue positioned between anvil 120 and storage platform 190. In many cases, portions of the tissue are controlled or prevented from sliding out of the end effector due to this pre-compression before the tissue is fully compressed, as described in more detail below.

[0293] See again in the various implementation schemes. Figure 7 and 8A ridge 113 extending from the cartridge platform 190 may extend around the proximal end 111 of the staple cavity opening 110. Similarly, a ridge 114 extending from the cartridge platform 190 may extend around the distal end 112 of the staple cavity opening 110. In various embodiments, these proximal ridges 113 and distal ridges 114 may be configured to engage tissue positioned above and / or around the staple cavity 184 and hold these portions of the tissue in proper position when the tissue is being compressed and / or sutured. In other words, holding the tissue positioned above and / or around the staple cavity 184 provides local control over portions of the tissue to be sutured, and thereby prevents or at least restricts relative movement between these portions of the tissue and the staple cartridge 142. In various embodiments, ridges 113 and 114 may be positioned around the opening 110 of all or only some of the staple cavities 184. In at least one embodiment, the chamber may include ridges 113 and 114 surrounding only the outermost rows of staple cavities 184 on the first side 145 and the second side 147. In such embodiments, the ridges surrounding the outermost row of staple cavities 184 may be sufficient to impede lateral movement of tissue within the end effector. In some embodiments, the chamber may include only a proximal ridge 113 surrounding the proximal end 111 of the nearest staple cavity 184 and / or a distal ridge 114 surrounding the distal end 112 of the farthest staple cavity 184. In such embodiments, the ridges surrounding both the nearest and farthest staple cavities 184 may be sufficient to impede longitudinal movement of tissue within the end effector.

[0294] In various embodiments, as further described above, each proximal ridge 113 may include, for example, an arcuate or curved shape surrounding the proximal end 111 of the opening 110. The arcuate shape of each proximal ridge 113 may be defined by one or more radii of curvature. Similarly, each distal ridge 114 may include, for example, an arcuate or curved shape surrounding the distal end 112 of the opening 110. The arcuate shape of each distal ridge 114 may be defined by one or more radii of curvature. In some embodiments, as further described above, each ridge 113 and 114 may form a recess that receives a portion of the compressed tissue and prevents that portion of the tissue from moving longitudinally and / or laterally relative to the staple cartridge 142. In various embodiments, the staple cartridge 142 may also include an intermediate ridge 115 that extends between and / or connects adjacent ridges 113 and 114 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 184. In at least one such embodiment, one or more ridges 113, 114, and 115 may operable to form a wavy ridge extending across a first side 145 or a second side 147 of the compartment 185, wherein in at least one embodiment, the wavy ridge may extend between a central portion and a side portion of the compartment 142. In various embodiments, each wavy ridge may include, for example, multiple wave portions wound around a proximal and distal end of the nail cavity 184. In various embodiments, each ridge 113, 114, and 115 may comprise a height defined by the compartment platform 190, wherein in some embodiments, the height of each ridge 113, 114, and 115 across its length may be uniform or at least substantially uniform. In at least one embodiment, each ridge 113, 114, and 115 may have the same or at least substantially the same height.

[0295] In various embodiments, as described above, the staple cavity defined within the staple cartridge body may include a staple positioned therein, wherein when the staple is in its unfired position, the entire staple may be positioned below the top surface of the cartridge platform or the tissue contact surface. In some other embodiments, when the staple is in its unfired position, at least a portion of the staple, such as, for example, the end of a staple leg, may extend above the top surface of the cartridge platform or the tissue contact surface. In some such embodiments, the end of the staple may protrude from the platform and may create an obstruction in the tissue when the staple cartridge is inserted into the surgical site. In at least one embodiment, see now. Figure 9When the nail extends above the cartridge platform 190 in its unfired position, ridges 113 and 114 extending above, for example, tissue contact cartridge platform 190 may at least partially surround and protect the leg 183 of the nail 187. Although ridges 113 and 114 may not extend completely around each opening 110, in various embodiments, the proximal ridge 113 may sufficiently surround one of the legs and the distal ridge 114 may sufficiently surround the other leg, such that the leg ends do not contact the tissue before the tissue is compressed against the cartridge 142 and / or the nail 187 is ejected from the cartridge 142. In at least one embodiment, the leg ends may be positioned below the top surface 116 of ridges 113 and 114. In some embodiments, the leg ends may be coplanar with the top surface 116 of ridges 113 and 114. In various embodiments, due to the protection provided by the ridges 113 and 114, for example, nails with a higher nail height can be used without the nail tip protruding from the nail magazine 142 in its unfired position. In some embodiments, see again... Figure 9 The ridges 113 and 114 may extend or increase the length of the legs 183 therein, which control and / or support the pin 187. In at least one such embodiment, each ridge 113 and 114 may extend or increase the length therein, which supports the legs 183 on three sides. Such embodiments may prevent or at least reduce the likelihood of the legs 183 buckling when inserted through dense tissue such as, for example, bronchial tissue.

[0296] See again in the various implementation schemes. Figure 4 The chamber 85 may include, for example, cavities 84, slots 62, and channels 86 defined therein that may reduce the strength of the chamber 85. In many cases, especially when the chamber 85 is compressed by the anvil 20, the chamber 85 may flex due to the load applied to it. In at least one such embodiment, the portion of the chamber platform 90 extending over the channel 86 may be, for example, particularly thin and particularly susceptible to flexure and / or breakage. In some embodiments, see again Figure 7 and 8 The ridges 113, 114, and / or 115 may be configured to strengthen and / or harden the housing 185. In at least one such embodiment, the ridges 113 and 114 may extend, for example, around the opening 110 to strengthen and / or harden a portion of the housing 185 surrounding the nail cavity 184. In some embodiments, the ridge 115 may extend laterally, for example, over a channel 86 defined within the housing 185, such that the ridge 115 strengthens and / or hardens the housing 185 surrounding the channel 86. In a variety of other embodiments, the housing 185 may include any suitable number and configuration of ridges extending therefrom to achieve the advantages described herein.

[0297] In various embodiments, the staple cartridge body 185 may be made of, for example, plastic, metallic, and / or ceramic materials. Some such materials may comprise liquid crystal polymers (such as, for example, Vectra), thermoplastic polymers (such as polycarbonate, ABS, Noryl, polyamide (nylon), polyethersulfone, polyetherimide (such as, for example, Ultem)), and / or blends of two or more of the aforementioned thermoplastic polymers, wherein in various embodiments, the cartridge body 185 may be formed, for example, by injection molding. Some such materials may comprise thermosetting polymers such as thermosetting polyesters, investment-cast stainless steel such as, for example, 17-4PH, and / or metal injection-molded stainless steel such as, for example, 17-4PH. In at least one such embodiment, the ridges 113, 114, and / or 115 may be integrally formed with the cartridge platform 190 of the cartridge body 185. In some embodiments, the ridges 113, 114, and / or 115 may be attached to the cartridge platform 190, for example, by at least one adhesive.

[0298] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 12 A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 342, may include a cartridge body 385, a plurality of staple cavities 384 defined in the cartridge body 385, and staples positioned in each of the staple cavities 384. In some embodiments, the cartridge body 385 may also include a first side 345 having a first set of staple cavities 384, a second side 347 having a second set of staple cavities 384, and a cartridge platform 390. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 385 may also include a plurality of ridges 315 extending from the cartridge platform 390 and positioned between adjacent staple cavities 384 in a row of staple cavities 384. In at least one embodiment, each ridge 315 may include, for example, a cross-shaped or X-shaped configuration. In at least one such embodiment, for example, each ridge 315 may include a V-shaped portion 313 that may at least partially surround a proximal end 311 of a staple cavity opening 310 and a V-shaped portion 314 that may at least partially surround a distal end 312 of another staple cavity opening 310. In some embodiments, only the outermost row of nail cavities 384 in the housing 385 may be at least partially surrounded by the ridge 315. In some other embodiments, see now. Figure 13 The staple cartridge body 385' may include a ridge 315 that at least partially surrounds the opening 310 of each staple cavity 384 in the cartridge body. In any case, in various embodiments, each ridge 315 may be configured to compress and control tissue positioned close to the staple cartridge 342 and / or staple legs surrounding staples extending above the platform 390, as described above.

[0299] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 16A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 542, may include a cartridge body 585, a plurality of staple cavities 584 defined in the cartridge body 585, and staples positioned in each of the staple cavities 584. In some embodiments, the cartridge body 585 may also include a first side 545 having a first set of staple cavities 584, a second side 547 having a second set of staple cavities 584, and a cartridge platform 590. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 585 may also include a plurality of ridges 515 extending from the cartridge platform 590, wherein each ridge 515 may completely surround or encircle the staple cavity opening 510. Figure 16 As shown, some cavity openings 510 in the housing 585 may not be surrounded by the ridge 515; however, in various alternative embodiments, see now. Figure 16A Each cavity opening 510 in the cartridge 585' can be surrounded by a ridge 515. Various embodiments are envisioned in which the cartridge includes a first set of nail cavities 584 surrounded by ridges 515 and a second set of nail cavities 584 not surrounded by ridges 515, wherein nails with higher nail heights can be positioned in the first set of nail cavities 584, and nails with lower nail heights can be positioned in the second set of nail cavities 584, such that neither the higher nor lower nails protrude from the cartridge 542. In at least one such embodiment, for example, the cartridge can be configured to allow the use of higher nails in one row of nail cavities 584 and lower nails in another row of nail cavities 584. In some embodiments, the ridge 515 can surround all the nail cavities 584 in the outermost row of nail cavities 584 in the cartridge, such that higher nails are available in the outermost row and lower nails are available, for example, in the innermost and / or middle rows of nail cavities 584.

[0300] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 14 A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 442, may include a cartridge body 485, a plurality of staple cavities 484 defined in the cartridge body 485, and staples positioned in each of the staple cavities 484. In some embodiments, the cartridge body 485 may also include a first side 445 having a first set of staple cavities 484, a second side 447 having a second set of staple cavities 484, and a cartridge platform 490. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 445 may also include a plurality of ridges 415 extending from the cartridge platform 490, wherein each ridge 415 may include a plurality of knurlings or knurling arrays. In use, an anvil may be used to position tissue against the knurlings such that the tissue conforms to the contour of the knurlings. In various embodiments, each ridge 415 may include, for example, a plurality of pyramidal or rhomboid knurlings at least partially surrounding one or more staple cavity openings 410, wherein in at least one embodiment, the pyramidal knurlings may point upward from the cartridge platform 490. In at least one embodiment, each pyramidal knurling may include four triangular sides that may converge to form a apex. In some implementations, see Figure 15AThe pyramidal knurling of ridge 415 may be truncated, wherein the top of each knurling may include a flat top surface surrounded by sloping sides. Although four-sided pyramidal knurling may be used, see now. Figure 15C Conceive other pyramidal shapes having fewer than four sides, such as, for example, three sides or more than four sides. In various embodiments, one or more ridges 415 may include a plurality of conical knurlings, wherein each conical knurling may include a circular or at least substantially circular base that tapers upward to form a apex. In some embodiments, see now. Figure 15B The conical knurling can be truncated, wherein the top of each knurling may include a flat top surface surrounded by annular sides. See again for various embodiments. Figure 14 The knurling of the ridge 415 may extend along the side of the cavity opening 410 and / or between adjacent cavity openings 410. In at least one embodiment, the knurling may extend around the proximal end 411 and / or the distal end 412 of the cavity opening 410. In some embodiments, the knurling of the ridge 415 may only surround some of the cavities in the cavity 484, while in some other embodiments, see [link to other embodiments]. Figure 15 The knurling of the ridge 415 may cover all or at least substantially all of the warehouse platform 490.

[0301] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 10A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 242, may include a cartridge body 285, a plurality of staple cavities 284 defined in the cartridge body 285, and staples positioned in each of the staple cavities 284. In some embodiments, the cartridge body 285 may also include a first side 245 having a first set of staple cavities 284, a second side 247 having a second set of staple cavities 284, and a cartridge platform 290. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 285 may also include a plurality of ridges or lugs 215 extending from the cartridge platform 290. In at least one such embodiment, each ridge 215 may extend laterally between a central or intermediate portion of the cartridge body 245 located adjacent to a knife slot 262 and a side portion of the cartridge body 245. More specifically, referring particularly to the first side 245 of the cartridge body 285, each ridge 215 may include a first end 213 located adjacent to the knife slot 262 and a second end 214 located adjacent to the first side 261 of the cartridge body 285. Similarly, referring now to the second side 247 of the housing 285, each ridge 215 may include a first end 213 located adjacent to the blade slot 262 and a second end 214 located adjacent to the second side 263 of the housing 285. In at least one embodiment, each ridge 215 may include a height measured from the platform 290, wherein in at least one such embodiment, the height of each ridge 215 may vary along its length. In some embodiments, the second end 214 may be higher than the first end 213, and the height of each ridge 215 may taper between the second end 214 and the first end 213. In some alternative embodiments, although not shown, the first end 213 of the ridge 215 may be higher than the second end 214. In at least one embodiment, the height of each ridge 215 may taper linearly or at least substantially linearly between the ends 213 and 214. In at least one such embodiment, the height of each ridge 215 may taper from a maximum height at the second end 214 to zero height at the first end 213. In some embodiments, the height of each ridge 215 may be geometrically varied between ends 213 and 214. In some alternative embodiments, see now. Figure 11 Each ridge 215' may contain a uniform height spanning its length.

[0302] As described above, the inner end 213 of the ridge 215 may be shorter than the outer end 214 of the ridge 215. Therefore, in many cases, the inner end 213 may apply less pressure to the tissue held between the anvil and the cartridge 242 compared to the outer end 214. In various embodiments, as described above, each ridge 215 may extend across the cartridge platform 290. In some embodiments, each ridge 215 may extend along a ridge axis that intersects the longitudinal axis 299 of the cartridge body 285. In at least one such embodiment, the ridge axis may be perpendicular to or at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 299. In various embodiments, the cartridge cavities 284 may be arranged in multiple rows, wherein each row of cartridge cavities 284 may be defined along a longitudinal axis that is parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 299. In at least one embodiment, the ridge axis of the ridge 215 may extend in a direction that intersects the longitudinal axis of the cartridge cavities 284. In at least one such embodiment, the spine axis of the ridge 215 may extend in a direction perpendicular to or at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the nail cavity 284. See again in various embodiments. Figure 10 Each ridge 215 may include a crown 209 and an inclined surface 208 extending between the crown 209 and the bin platform 290. In some embodiments, each inclined surface 208 may include, for example, one or more flat surfaces, curved surfaces, concave surfaces, and / or convex surfaces. In various embodiments, each ridge 215 may extend along a path that extends across one or more openings 210 of the nail cavity 284. In at least one such embodiment, such openings 210 may extend upward through the ridge 215. When the ridge 215 extends laterally across the bin platform 290, the ridge 215 (similar to ridge 115) may increase the strength and / or rigidity of the bin body 285.

[0303] In various implementation schemes, see now. Figure 17 and 18A staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 642, may include a cartridge body 685, a plurality of staple cavities 684 defined in the cartridge body 685, and staples positioned in each of the staple cavities 684. In some embodiments, the cartridge body 685 may also include a first side 645 having a first set of staple cavities 684, a second side 647 having a second set of staple cavities 684, and a cartridge platform 690. In various embodiments, the cartridge body 685 may also include a plurality of ridges or lugs 615 extending from the cartridge platform 690. In at least one such embodiment, each ridge 615 may extend in a longitudinal direction, wherein each ridge 615 may include a distal end 613 and a proximal end 614, wherein the distal end 613 of the ridge 615 may be positioned closer to the distal end 643 of the cartridge body 685, and wherein the proximal end 614 of the ridge 615 may be positioned closer to the proximal end 641. In at least one embodiment, each ridge 615 may include a height measured from platform 690, wherein in at least one such embodiment, the height of each ridge 615 may vary along its length. In some embodiments, the proximal end 614 may be higher than the distal end 613 and the height of each ridge 615 may taper between the proximal end 614 and the distal end 613. In some alternative embodiments, although not shown, the distal end 613 of the ridge 615 may be higher than the proximal end 614. In at least one embodiment, the height of each ridge 615 may taper linearly or at least substantially linearly between ends 613 and 614. In at least one such embodiment, the height of each ridge 615 may taper from a maximum height at the proximal end 614 to zero height at the distal end 613. In some embodiments, the height of each ridge 615 may vary geometrically between ends 613 and 614. In some alternative embodiments, each ridge 615 may include a uniform height across its length.

[0304] As described above, the distal end 613 of the ridge 615 may be shorter than the proximal end 614 of the ridge 615. Therefore, in many cases, the distal end 613 may apply less pressure to the tissue held between the anvil and the cartridge 642 compared to the proximal end 614. In various embodiments, as described above, each ridge 615 may extend longitudinally across the cartridge platform 690. In some embodiments, each ridge 615 may extend along a ridge axis parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 699 of the cartridge body 685. In various embodiments, the cartridge cavities 684 may be arranged in multiple rows, wherein each row of cartridge cavities 684 may be defined along a longitudinal axis parallel to or at least substantially parallel to the ridge axis of the ridge 615. In at least one embodiment, see again... Figure 18Each ridge 615 may include an inclined surface, which may include, for example, one or more flat surfaces, curved surfaces, concave surfaces, and / or convex surfaces. In at least one such embodiment, the bottom of the inclined surface may face distally, thereby facilitating tissue sliding across the entire staple cartridge 642 when tissue is positioned in the end effector. In various embodiments, each ridge 615 may extend along a path that extends across one or more openings 610 of the staple cavity 684. In at least one such embodiment, such openings 610 may extend upward through the ridge 615. When the ridge 615 extends laterally across the cartridge platform 690, the ridge 615 may increase the strength and / or rigidity of the cartridge body 685.

[0305] In various embodiments, in addition to those described above, the surgical staple may comprise titanium, such as, for example, titanium wire. In some embodiments, the surgical staple may be made of, for example, an alloy comprising titanium, aluminum, and / or vanadium. In at least one embodiment, the surgical staple may be made of, for example, surgical stainless steel and / or an alloy composed of cobalt and chromium. In any case, the surgical staple may be made of, for example, a metal (such as titanium) and a metal oxide outer surface (such as titanium trioxide). In various embodiments, materials may be used to coat the metal oxide outer surface. In some embodiments, the coating material may comprise, for example, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (such as... The coating may contain ethylene propylene (EPF) and / or tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) (such as ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), perfluoroalkoxyethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (PFA)) and / or fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP). Some coatings may contain silicon. In many embodiments, such coating materials prevent or at least inhibit further oxidation of the metal. In some embodiments, the coating material may provide one or more lubricating surfaces against which the anvil or nail recess contacts the nail, thereby reducing friction between them. In many cases, lower friction between the nail and the nail recess reduces the force required to deform the nail.

[0306] The publications of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0074198 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,733,613), entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE," filed September 29, 2010, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0161375, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE," filed February 21, 2013, are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0307] The end effector of the surgical suture instrument is shown. Figure 23 and Figure 55The end effector may include an anvil, such as an anvil 20, and jaws or a cartridge channel 22 configured to removably support a cartridge therein. A cartridge 2000 is positioned, for example, in the cartridge channel 22. The cartridge 2000 may include a cartridge body 2010 including a plurality of cartridge cavities 2050 defined therein. Each cartridge 2050 may be configured to removably store a nail therein. The cartridge body 2010 may include a platform surface 2011 and a longitudinal slot 2015 defined in the platform surface 2011 configured to removably receive a firing member and / or cutting edge therein. The cartridge body 2010 may also include a distal end 2013, a proximal end 2016, and opposing longitudinal sides 2012 extending between the distal end 2013 and the proximal end 2016. In various cases, each longitudinal side 2012 may include adjacent or continuous edges without any interruption defined therein. In comparison (e.g.) Figure 7 and Figure 23 At that time, the reader will understand, Figure 7 The longitudinal side of the staple cartridge 142 shown includes at least one recess defined therein, while the longitudinal side 2012 does not include such a recess.

[0308] See also Figure 55 The chamber 2010 may also include a plurality of protrusions 2051 extending from the platform surface 2011. The protrusions 2051 may be configured to engage tissue positioned between the anvil 20 and the chamber 2000 and to control movement of the tissue relative to the chamber 2000. In various cases, the tissue may move relative to the chamber 2000. In at least one case, when the anvil 20 is in the open position ( Figure 23 When moving between the anvil 20 and the closed position, tissue may flow relative to the cartridge 2000, in which the tissue is compressed between the anvil 20 and the cartridge 2000. In this case, the tissue may flow laterally toward the longitudinal side 2012, distally toward the distal end 2013, and / or proximally toward the proximal end 2016. In at least one other case, tissue may flow relative to the cartridge 2000 as the cutting edge advances distally through the tissue captured between the anvil 20 and the cartridge 2000. In this case, the tissue may flow laterally, distally, and / or proximally, but primarily distally due to the distal movement of the cutting edge. In various cases, the protrusion 2051 may be configured to restrict or prevent tissue flow relative to the cartridge. The protrusion 2051 may be positioned at the proximal and / or distal ends of the cartridge 2050. In various cases, each protrusion 2051 may include a sleeve extending around an end of the cartridge 2050. In various cases, each protrusion 2051 may include an arched ridge extending around the end of the nail cavity 2050.

[0309] See also Figure 55The chamber 2010 may include an inclined transition 2014 extending between the distal end of the chamber 2010 and the platform surface 2011. When the chamber 2000 and anvil 20 are positioned within the surgical site, the inclined transition 2014 facilitates movement of the chamber 2000 relative to tissue. In such cases, tissue can slide on the inclined surface 2014. In various cases, the inclined surface 2014 may include a rounded surface. In various cases, the inclined surface 2014 may include an angled surface. In some cases, the inclined surface 2014 may include a concave surface and / or a convex surface. In at least one case, such as Figure 55 As shown, the inclined surface 2014 may include a distal concave surface that is transitioned into a flat angular surface, and the flat angular surface is transitioned into, for example, a proximal convex surface.

[0310] The staple cavities 2050 defined in the cartridge 2010 can be arranged in longitudinal rows. For example, three longitudinal rows of staple cavities 2050 can be arranged on a first side of the longitudinal slot 2015, and three longitudinal rows of staple cavities 2050 can be arranged on a second side of the longitudinal slot 2105. Each longitudinal row may include a distal staple cavity 2050 adjacent to the distal end 2013 and a proximal staple cavity 2050 adjacent to the proximal end 2016. In various cases, the cartridge 2010 may also include a protrusion 2053 extending from the platform surface 2011. The protrusion 2053 may be positioned at the distal end of the distal staple cavity 2050. Each protrusion 2053 may include, for example, a distally inclined surface configured to facilitate tissue insertion between the cartridge 2000 and the anvil 20. In various cases, the distal cavity 2050 may each include a protrusion 2053 located at its distal end and a protrusion 2051 located at its proximal end.

[0311] Each protrusion 2051 and / or protrusion 2053 may be configured to support at least a portion of a nail removably stored in the nail cavity 2050. In various cases, each protrusion 2051 may allow the end wall 2052 of the nail cavity 2050 to extend above the platform 2011. In some cases, see generally. Figure 24 as well as Figures 26 to 29 The nail positioned within the nail cavity 2050 may include a base, a first leg extending from the base at a first angle, and a second leg extending from the base at a second angle. The first leg may engage with the first end wall 2052 of the nail cavity 2050. Figure 55The first leg of the nail may contact the second end wall 2052 of the nail cavity. In some cases, the distance or width between the first and second legs of the nail may be wider than the distance between the end walls 2052, such that when the nail is positioned within the nail cavity 2050, the legs are biased inward by the end walls 2052. When the nail is stored within the nail cavity 2050 in its unfired or unlifted position, the ends of the nail legs may be positioned within the protrusion 2051. In such cases, the protrusion 2051 may support and protect the ends of the nail legs above the platform 2011. In some cases, when the nail is in its unfired position, the ends of the nail legs may be positioned below the protrusion 2051, and therefore, the protrusion 2051 may not support the nail legs when the nail is in its unfired position. When such a nail is fired or lifted out of the nail cavity 2050, the nail legs may then contact and be supported by the protrusion 2051. In any case, the protrusion 2051 may continue to support the nail leg during nail deployment until the nail has been fully fired and / or lifted out of the nail cavity 2050, so that the nail leg is no longer in contact with the protrusion 2051. The protrusion 2053 may be performed in a similar manner to that described with the protrusion 2051.

[0312] In various cases, in addition to those described above, the protrusion 2051 allows the nail cavity 2050 to extend above the platform 2011 of the housing 2010. In some cases, the protrusion 2051 may be configured such that the end wall 2052 of the nail cavity 2050 extends seamlessly into the protrusion 2051. In other words, a seamless surface may be defined between the end wall 2052 and the protrusion 2051. Such a seamless surface reduces the likelihood of nail legs biased against the end wall 2052 and the protrusion 2051 contacting the edges or steps within the nail cavity 2050 and / or drilling into the end wall of the nail cavity 2050. Figure 55AA step 2056 is shown defined between the protrusion 2051 and the end wall 2052. Although the step 2056 includes an outward step rather than an inward step, the step 2056 can be eliminated to provide a seamless surface as discussed above. In embodiments in which the chamber 2010 is formed during the injection molding process, the chamber 2010 can be formed in a mold cavity defined between two halves of the injection mold. The two halves of the injection mold can contact each other to seal or at least substantially seal the mold cavity. The joint between the two mold halves is generally referred to as a sealing line or parting line, and typically, a small flange or lip is formed along the sealing line in the chamber. This is especially true when the sealing line is used to vent air from the mold cavity during the injection molding process. Such a flange or lip is generally referred to as a “burr”. The injection mold can be carefully designed so that the sealing line does not produce a flange or lip in the inward-facing surface of the end wall 2052 and / or the protrusion 2051. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 2051 may include an end sleeve portion 2057 and a transition portion 2058 extending from the opposite end of the sleeve portion to the platform 2011. The sealing line between the two mold halves may be selected such that the sealing line extends along the top surface of the protrusion 2051. Figure 55A An exemplary sealing line 2059 is shown, but other suitable sealing lines may be selected.

[0313] Figure 56 and Figure 57A staple cartridge 2800 is shown. The staple cartridge 2800 may include a cartridge body 2810. The cartridge body 2810 may include a distal end 2813, a proximal end 2816, and opposing sides 2812. Similar to the description above, each side 2812 may include an adjacent edge in which no notch is defined. The cartridge body 2810 may also include a platform 2811, a plurality of staple cavities 2850 defined in the platform 2811, and a longitudinal slot 2815 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 2810 may also include a ridge 2851 extending from the platform 2811. In various cases, the ridge 2851 may include a pattern. In at least one case, each ridge 2851 may extend between the side 2812 and the longitudinal slot 2815. Each ridge 2851 may include any suitable configuration such as, for example, a platform. One or more staple cavities 2850 may extend through the ridge 2851. In some cases, at least a portion of the nail cavity 2850 in the inner row nail cavity 2850, at least a portion of the nail cavity 2850 in the middle row nail cavity 2850, and / or at least a portion of the nail cavity 2850 in the outer row nail cavity 2850 may extend through the platform of the ridge 2851. Each ridge 2851 may include an inner end 2858 positioned adjacent to the longitudinal slot 2815 and an outer end 2859 positioned adjacent to the side 2812. In some cases, the inner end 2858 may be positioned distally relative to the outer end 2859. In other cases, although not shown, the outer end 2859 may be positioned distally relative to the inner end 2858. The ridges 2851 may be, for example, parallel. In some cases, the ridges 2851 may include, for example, a tread pattern. In at least one case, the ridge 2851 extending from the platform 2811 on a first side of the longitudinal slot 2815 may include a mirror image of the ridge 2851 extending from the platform on a second side of the longitudinal slot 2815. In various cases, a gap may be defined between the ridges 2851. Tissue may flow into this gap, for example, when it is compressed against the chamber platform 2811 by the anvil. This gap may be configured to guide the flow of tissue in a desired direction.

[0314] Stabbing 2900 Figure 58As shown. The staple cartridge 2900 may include a cartridge body 2910. The cartridge body 2910 may include a distal end 2913, a proximal end, and opposing sides 2912. Similar to the description above, each side 2912 may include adjacent edges in which no notch is defined. The cartridge body 2910 may also include a platform 2911, a plurality of staple cavities 2950 defined in the platform 2911, and a longitudinal slot 2915 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 2910 may also include ridges 2951 extending from the platform 2911. In various cases, the ridges 2951 may include a pattern. Each ridge 2951 may extend between the distal end 2913 and the proximal end of the cartridge body 2910. In at least one case, each ridge 2951 may extend toward the side 2912 and toward the longitudinal slot 2915. In various cases, each ridge 2951 may include an inwardly and proximally extending angled portion 2954, a longitudinally extending straight portion 2955, and an inwardly and distally extending angled portion 2956. The ridges 2951 may extend around and / or between nail cavities 2950. In at least one case, the angled portions 2954 and 2956 may extend between the nail cavities 2950 of the longitudinal nail cavities 2950. The ridges 2951 may, for example, be parallel to each other. In some cases, the ridges 2951 may include, for example, a tread pattern. In at least one case, the ridge 2951 extending from the platform 2911 on a first side of the longitudinal slot 2915 may include a mirror image of the ridge 2951 extending from the platform on a second side of the longitudinal slot 2915. In various cases, a gap may be defined between the ridges 2951. Tissue may flow into the gap, for example, when tissue is compressed against the chamber platform 2911 by the anvil. This gap can be configured to guide the flow of tissue in the desired direction.

[0315] The staple cartridge may include a uniform array of protrusions extending therefrom. In other cases, the array may be non-uniform. In some cases, the protrusions in the array may not extend the staple cavity. In various cases, the protrusions in the array may not support the staples.

[0316] Figure 59 and Figure 60The image shows a staple cartridge 3000. The staple cartridge 3000 may include a cartridge body 3010. The cartridge body 3010 may include a distal end 3013, a proximal end, and opposing sides 3012. Similar to the description above, each side 3012 may include an adjacent edge in which no notch is defined. The cartridge body 3010 may also include a platform 3011, a plurality of staple cavities 3050 defined in the platform 3011, and a longitudinal slot 3015 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 3010 may also include a protrusion 3051 extending from the cartridge platform 3011. In various cases, the protrusion 3051 may include a pattern. In at least one case, each protrusion 3051 may include a pyramidal configuration. The pyramidal configuration may include, for example, four sides terminating at a point. Alternatively, these four sides may terminate, for example, with a flat surface. Alternatively, the pyramidal configuration may include, for example, three sides terminating at a point. In any case, as Figure 59 As shown, the protrusion array 3051 may extend across the platform 3011 between the longitudinal slot 3015 and the side 3012. The protrusions 3051 may be arranged around the nail cavities 3050. The nail cavities 3050 may be arranged in a longitudinal row, and the protrusions 3051 may be positioned in the middle of the nail cavities 3050 within the longitudinal row of nail cavities 3050. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned in the middle of the nail cavities 3050 in adjacent longitudinal row of nail cavities 3050. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned between the innermost row of nail cavities 3050 and the longitudinal channel 3015. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned between the outermost row of nail cavities 3050 and the lateral edge 3012. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned distally relative to the distal nail cavity 3050. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned proximally relative to the nearest nail cavity 3050. The protrusions 3051 may be positioned distally relative to the distal end of the longitudinal slot 3015. In other cases, the protrusion 3051 may not be positioned distally relative to the distal end of the longitudinal slot 3015.

[0317] Figure 61 and Figure 62 The image shows a staple cartridge 3100. The staple cartridge 3100 may include a cartridge body 3110. The cartridge body 3110 may include a distal end 3113, a proximal end, and opposing sides 3112. Similar to the description above, each side 3112 may include adjacent edges in which no notch is defined. The cartridge body 3110 may also include a platform 3111, a plurality of staple cavities 3150 defined in the platform 3111, and a longitudinal slot 3115 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 3110 may also include a protrusion 3151 extending from the cartridge platform 3111. In various cases, the protrusion 3151 may include a pattern. In at least one case, each protrusion 3151 may include a dome-shaped configuration. The dome-shaped configuration may include, for example, a hemispherical protrusion. In some cases, the apex of the dome may be a flat surface. Figure 61As shown, the protrusion array 3151 may extend across the platform 3111 between the longitudinal slot 3115 and the side 3112. The protrusions 3151 may be arranged around the nail cavities 3150. The nail cavities 3150 may be arranged in a longitudinal row, and the protrusions 3151 may be positioned in the middle of the nail cavities 3150 within the longitudinal row of nail cavities 3150. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned in the middle of the nail cavities 3150 in adjacent longitudinal row of nail cavities 3150. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned between the innermost row of nail cavities 3150 and the longitudinal channel 3115. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned between the outermost row of nail cavities 3150 and the lateral edge 3112. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned distally relative to the distal nail cavity 3150. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned proximally relative to the nearest nail cavity 3150. The protrusions 3151 may be positioned distally relative to the distal end of the longitudinal slot 3115. In other cases, the protrusion 3151 may be positioned distally relative to the distal end of the longitudinal slot 3115.

[0318] Figure 63The image shows a staple cartridge 3200. The staple cartridge 3200 may include a cartridge body 3210. The cartridge body 3210 may include a distal end 3213, a proximal end, and opposing sides 3212. Similar to the description above, each side 3212 may include an adjacent edge in which no notch is defined. The cartridge body 3210 may also include a platform 3211, a plurality of staple cavities 3250 defined in the platform 3211, and a longitudinal slot 3215 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 3210 may also include a protrusion 3251 extending from the cartridge platform 3211. Similar to protrusion 2051, protrusion 3251 may be configured to engage tissue positioned between the anvil and the cartridge 3200 and control tissue movement relative to the cartridge 3200. In various cases, protrusion 3251 may be configured to restrict or prevent tissue flow relative to the cartridge. A protrusion 3251 may be positioned at a proximal and / or distal end of the staple cartridge 3250. In various cases, each protrusion 3251 may include a sleeve extending around the end of the staple cartridge 3250. In various cases, each protrusion 3251 may include an arched ridge extending around the end of the staple cartridge 3250. In various cases, each protrusion 3251 may include one or more projections 3254 defined thereon. The projections 3254 may provide a textured surface that improves the gripping or retention of tissue that the protrusion 3251 can be applied to and positioned between the anvil and the staple cartridge 3200. In various cases, each projection 3254 may include, for example, a bump. In some cases, each projection 3254 may include a dome. In at least one case, the projection 3254 may be made of an elastic material such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or Santoprene, molded onto the protrusion 3251, which may be made of, for example, plastic. In various cases, the protrusion 3254 may be made of a flexible material and may damage tissue compressed by the protrusion 3254. The cartridge 3210 may also include a protrusion 3253. Similar to protrusion 2053, protrusion 3253 may be positioned at the distal end of the distal end of the distal cavity 3250. Each protrusion 3253 may include, for example, a distally inclined surface configured to facilitate tissue insertion between the cartridge 3200 and the anvil. In various cases, the distal cavity 3250 may each include a protrusion 3253 positioned at its distal end and a protrusion 3251 positioned at its proximal end. Also similar to those described above, each protrusion 3251 and / or protrusion 3253 may be configured to support at least a portion of a staple removably stored in the cavity 3250.

[0319] Nail 2130 Figure 24The diagram shows a base 2131, a first leg 2132a extending from a first end of the base 2131, and a second leg 2132b extending from a second end of the base 2131. The distance between the first and second ends of the base 2131 may be referred to as the crown distance and is denoted by dimension E. The first leg 2132a includes a first portion 2133a extending from the base 2131 and a second portion 2134a extending from the first portion 2133a. The first portion 2133a may extend from the base 2131 at a first angle, which may be represented by an angle F measured vertically. The second portion 2134a may extend from the first portion 2133a at a second angle, which may be represented by an angle K also measured vertically. The reader will understand that the first portion 2133a and the second portion 2134a are not on the same straight line; rather, the first portion 2133a extends along a first axis 2137a and the second portion 2134a extends along a second axis 2138a, which is different from the first axis 2137a. A connector 2135a interconnects the first portion 2133a and the second portion 2134a and is located at a distance D measured from a support surface 2139 defined on the bottom of the base 2131. The second portion 2134a includes a distance C measured from the base support surface 2139. The first portion 2133a may include a first cantilever extending from the base 2131, and the second portion 2134a may include a second cantilever extending from the first portion 2133a. Distance D defines the distance of the first cantilever, and the difference between distance C and distance D defines the distance of the second cantilever.

[0320] The second pin 2132b includes a first portion 2133b extending from the base 2131 and a second portion 2134b extending from the first portion 2133b. The first portion 2133b may extend from the base 2131 at a first angle. This first angle may be represented by an angle G measured in the vertical direction. Angle G may be the same as or different from the angle F described above. When the second pin 2132b is positioned distally relative to the first pin 2132a, in at least one case, angle G may be less than, for example, angle F. Alternatively, when the first pin 2132a is positioned distally relative to the second pin 2132b, in at least one case, angle F may be less than, for example, angle G. The second portion 2134b may extend from the first portion 2133b at a second angle. This second angle may be represented by an angle H, also measured in the vertical direction. Angle H may be the same as or different from the angle K described above. When the second leg 2132b is positioned distally relative to the first leg 2132a, in at least one case, the angle H may be less than, for example, the angle K. Alternatively, when the first leg 2132a is positioned distally relative to the second leg 2132b, in at least one case, the angle K may be less than, for example, the angle H. The reader will understand that the first portion 2133b and the second portion 2134b are not on the same straight line; rather, the first portion 2133b extends along a first axis 2137b and the second portion 2134b extends along a second axis 2138b different from the first axis 2137b. A connector 2135b interconnects the first portion 2133b and the second portion 2134b and is located at a distance B measured from the support surface 2139 defined on the bottom of the base 2131. Distance B may be the same as or different from the distance D described above. The second portion 2134b includes a leg end 2136b located at a distance A measured from the base support surface 2139. Distance A may be the same as or different from distance C described above. The first portion 2133b may include a first cantilever extending from the base 2131, and the second portion 2134b may include a second cantilever extending from the first portion 2133b. Distance B may define the distance of the first cantilever, and the difference between distance A and distance B may define the distance of the second cantilever. The distance between the first end 2136a of the first leg 2132a and the second end 2136b of the second leg 2312 may define the span between legs 2132a, 2132b and is represented by distance J. Distance J may be wider than or less than the crown distance E described above.

[0321] Figure 25A nail 2130 is shown positioned within a nail cavity 2150 defined in a magazine 2110 and supported by a nail actuator 2040. The reader will understand that the legs 2132a and 2132b of the nail 2130 have been biased or bent inward by the end walls of the nail cavity 2150. Therefore, distances A, B, C, D, E, and J may have changed and are represented by A', B', C', D', E', and J', respectively. The nail 2130 may be made of a resilient material such as, for example, stainless steel and / or titanium, and these changes in distance may be reversed or at least partially reversed when the nail 2130 is ejected from the nail cavity 2150. Similarly, angles F, G, H, and K may change due to positioning the nail 2130 within the nail cavity 2150 and are represented by angles F', G', H', and K', respectively. As described above, the nail 2130 may be made of an elastic material, and when the nail 2130 is ejected from the nail cavity 2150, the change in distance may be reversed or at least partially reversed. Figure 25 The pin 2130 and actuator 2040 are shown in the unfired position. In this unfired position, the end 2136a of the first pin leg 2132a extends over the platform surface 2111 of the magazine 2110 and is positioned within and protected by a protrusion 2150a extending from the platform surface 2111. Similarly, the end 2136b of the second pin leg 2132b extends over the platform surface 2111 and is positioned within and protected by a protrusion 2150b extending from the platform surface 2111.

[0322] Nail 2230 Figure 26 As shown. The nail 2230 may include a base 2231, a first leg 2232a extending from the base 2231, and a second leg 2232b extending from the base 2231. The first leg 2232a may include a first portion 2233a connected to the base 2231, and a second portion 2234a extending from the first portion 2233a. The second leg 2232b may include a first portion 2233b connected to the base 2231, and a second portion 2234b extending from the first portion 2233b. The base 2231, the first portion 2233a, and the first portion 2233b may include a generally V-shaped configuration. In various cases, the second portion 2234a may extend inwardly from the first portion 2233a at the joint 2235a, and similarly, the second portion 2234b may extend inwardly from the first portion 2233b at the joint 2235b. The base 2231, the first leg 2232a, and the second leg 2232b can be constructed and arranged such that the nail 2230 is in Figure 26 The unformed (or unfired) configuration shown is symmetrical. In various cases, the first leg 2232a may be positioned distally relative to the second leg 2232b. Alternatively, the first leg 2232a may be positioned proximally relative to the second leg 2232b.

[0323] Nail 2330 Figure 27 As shown. The nail 2330 may include a base 2331, a first leg 2332a extending from the base 2331, and a second leg 2332b extending from the base 2331. The first leg 2332a may include a straight portion 2333a extending along an axis and connected to the base 2331. The second leg 2332b may include a first portion 2333b connected to the base 2331 and a second portion 2334b extending from the first portion 2333b. The base 2331, the straight portion 2333a, and the first portion 2333b may include a generally V-shaped configuration. In various cases, the second portion 2334b may extend inwardly from the first portion 2333b at the joint 2335b. The base 2331, the first leg 2332a, and the second leg 2332b may be constructed and arranged such that the nail 2330... Figure 27 The unformed (or unfired) configuration shown is asymmetrical. In various cases, the first leg 2332a may be positioned distally relative to the second leg 2332b. Alternatively, the first leg 2332a may be positioned proximally relative to the second leg 2332b.

[0324] Nail 2430 Figure 28 As shown. The nail 2430 may include a base 2431, a first leg 2432a extending from the base 2431, and a second leg 2432b extending from the base 2431. The first leg 2432a may include a first portion 2433a connected to the base 2431, and a second portion 2434a extending from the first portion 2433a. The second leg 2432b may include a first portion 2433b connected to the base 2431, and a second portion 2434b extending from the first portion 2433b. The base 2431, the first portion 2433a, and the first portion 2433b may include a generally V-shaped configuration. In various cases, the second portion 2434a may extend inward from the first portion 2433a at a first angle at the joint 2435a, and similarly, the second portion 2434b may extend inward from the first portion 2433b at a second angle at the joint 2435b. The first angle and the second angle may be different. The base 2431, the first leg 2432a, and the second leg 2432b can be constructed and arranged such that the nail 2430 is in Figure 28 The unformed (or unfired) configuration shown is asymmetrical. In various cases, the first leg 2432a may be positioned distally relative to the second leg 2432b. Alternatively, the first leg 2432a may be positioned proximally relative to the second leg 2432b.

[0325] Nail 2530 Figure 29As shown. The nail 2530 may include a base 2531, a first leg 2532a extending from the base 2531, and a second leg 2532b extending from the base 2531. The first leg 2532a may include a first portion 2533a connected to the base 2531, and a second portion 2534a extending from the first portion 2533a. The second leg 2532b may include a first portion 2533b connected to the base 2531, and a second portion 2534b extending from the first portion 2533b. The base 2531, the first portion 2533a, and the first portion 2533b may include a generally V-shaped configuration. In various cases, the second portion 2534a may extend inward from the first portion 2533a at a first angle at the joint 2535a, and similarly, the second portion 2534b may extend inward from the first portion 2533b at a second angle at the joint 2535b. The first angle and the second angle may be different. The base 2531, the first leg 2532a, and the second leg 2532b can be constructed and arranged such that the nail 2530 is in Figure 29 The unformed (or unfired) configuration shown is asymmetrical. The spike 2530 may resemble the spike 2430 in many respects, and in at least one case, may include a base 2531 that is wider than the base 2431. In some cases, a wider spike base may be accommodated within a given spike cavity when spike legs 2532a and / or spike legs 2532b extend in a direction closer to the vertical. In various cases, the first leg 2532a may be positioned distally relative to the second leg 2532b. Alternatively, the first leg 2532a may be positioned proximally relative to the second leg 2532b.

[0326] As discussed above, tissue trapped between the anvil and cartridge of a surgical end effector can move within or flow relative to the end effector during use. Again, as discussed above, this movement or flow can be generally distal because the firing member of the end effector moves distally to fire staples removably stored in the cartridge and cut the tissue. If the firing member moves proximally, the movement or flow of tissue will be generally proximal. However, distal flow of tissue can displace staples distally during firing. This phenomenon is as follows: Figure 30 As shown. Figure 30A nail 2630 is shown ejected from a nail cavity 2650 defined in a housing 2610. The nail 2630 is shown in a position at least partially fired, wherein the nail actuator 2640 is moving the base 2631 of the nail 2630 upward toward the anvil 20, and wherein the legs 2632a, 2632b of the nail 2630 have emerged from the nail cavity 2650 and have contacted the anvil 20. As the reader will understand, the nail cavity 2650 may include a first protrusion 2651a and a first end wall 2652a configured to support the first nail leg 2632a, and similarly, may include a second protrusion 2651b and a second side wall 2652b configured to support the second nail leg 2632b when the nail 2630 is ejected from the nail cavity 2650 by the actuator 2640. However, as Figure 30 As shown, the nail 2630 can be displaced distally during the firing process, causing the nail leg 2632a to move away from the first end wall 2652a and the nail leg 2632b to move past the second protrusion 2651b. Although the nail 2630 has been displaced distally, the first leg 2632a is still received within the first forming cup 22a of the nail recess defined in the anvil 20, and the second leg 2632b is still received within the second forming cup 22b of the nail recess. Although the nail legs 2632a, 2632b can contact their respective forming cups 22a, 22b, the distal displacement of the nail 2630 may not result in a symmetrically shaped nail, such as, for example... Figure 31 As shown. Figure 31 The spike 2630 is shown being raised by the spike driver 2640 to a position above the bin platform surface 2611 of the bin body 2610 and transformed into its fully firing configuration.

[0327] As discussed above, symmetrical staples can deform asymmetrically due to tissue displacement within the end effector. In various cases, the staple cartridge can use asymmetrical staples that compensate for this displacement, such as, for example... Figure 24 and Figures 27 to 29 The asymmetric pins are shown. The pin legs of these asymmetric pins can be constructed in such a way that when the asymmetric pins are shifted distally, they can be shifted into an orientation that allows them to be transformed into a symmetrical or at least more symmetrical firing configuration. Figure 84 A staple cartridge 4800 is shown, comprising: a cartridge body 4810 including a plurality of staple cavities 4850 defined therein; asymmetric staples positioned within the staple cavities 4850; and a plurality of actuators 4840 configured to eject staples from the staple cavities 4850. The cartridge body 4810 may include a distal end 4813 and a proximal end 4816, wherein the staple cavities 4850 may be arranged in a longitudinal row defined within the cartridge body 4810. The cartridge body 4810 in… Figure 84 The section is transversely cut to show one such longitudinal staple cavity 4850. In some cases, the staples removably stored within the longitudinal staple cavity 4850 may have the same asymmetrical configuration, while in other cases, such as Figure 84 As shown, the nails can have different asymmetric configurations. For example, nail 4830' is stored in the proximal end of the longitudinal row, while nail 4830" is stored in the distal end of the longitudinal row. Similar to the above description, each nail 4830' may include a first nail leg 4832a' and a second nail leg 4832b', wherein one or both nail legs may include a plurality of segments, such as, for example, segments 4833b' and 4834b' of the second nail leg 4832b'. Also similar to the above description, each nail 4830" may include a first nail leg 4832a" and a second nail leg 4832b", wherein one or both nail legs may include a plurality of segments, such as, for example, segments 4833b' and 4834b' of the second nail leg 4832b'. One or two pin legs may comprise several segments, such as, for example, segments 4833a” and 4834a” of the first pin leg 4832a” and segments 4833b” and 4834b” of the second pin leg 4832b’. By comparing pin 4830’ and pin 4830”, the reader will understand that the angle between segments 4833b” and 4834b” of pin 4830” is more pronounced or larger than the angle between segments 4833b’ and 4834b’ of pin 4830’. In other words, the distal pin 4830” may be more asymmetrical than the proximal pin 4830’. In some cases, tissue movement at the distal end 4813 of the staple cartridge 4800 may be greater than tissue movement at the proximal end 4816, and correspondingly, the displacement in pin orientation may be greater at the distal end 4813 of the staple cartridge 4800 than at the proximal end 4816. Compared to the smaller asymmetry of the proximal nail 4830', which experiences less nail displacement, the larger asymmetry of the distal nail 4830" can compensate for the larger nail displacement. This is just an example, and any suitable type of nail can be used within a nail row to compensate for different nail displacements. For example, it is conceivable that a nail positioned at the proximal end of a longitudinal row may have greater asymmetry than a nail positioned at the distal end of a longitudinal row. It is also conceivable that more than two sets of asymmetric nails can be used in a longitudinal row.

[0328] As described above, in various cases, tissue movement or flow at the distal end of the end effector can be greater than that at the proximal end of the end effector. This can occur due to the distal movement of the firing member within the end effector. Although the firing member is configured to progressively suture and cut tissue as it moves distally, it can also plow or push tissue distally. This pushing or plowing effect can begin at the proximal end of the end effector and can be amplified as the firing member moves distally, resulting in the maximum pushing or plowing effect at the distal end of the end effector. Therefore, in addition to what has been described above, gradients in pin asymmetry can be used within the longitudinal pin row to compensate for gradients in tissue movement and pin displacement.

[0329] In addition to or instead of the above, the staple cartridge can use protrusions of varying heights to control tissue movement within the end effector. In various cases, the protrusions extending from the platform of the staple cartridge, as disclosed herein, reduce the gap between the staple cartridge and the anvil of the end effector. Therefore, compared to embodiments without protrusions, the protrusions can apply greater local pressure to the tissue positioned between the anvil and the staple cartridge. In various cases, protrusions with higher heights can apply greater compressive or compressive forces to the tissue, while protrusions with lower heights can apply relatively smaller compressive or compressive forces. Along these lines, higher protrusions provide greater control over tissue movement compared to lower protrusions. As the reader will recall, tissue movement at the proximal end of the end effector can be less than tissue movement at the distal end of the end effector, and therefore, see again... Figure 84 The staple cartridge 4800 may have a lower protrusion 4851' at the proximal end 4816 of the cartridge body 4810 and a higher protrusion 4851" at the distal end 4813. In at least one case, the lower protrusion 4851' may extend a distance 4855' from the platform surface 4811 of the cartridge body 4810, and the higher protrusion 4851" may extend a distance 4855" from the lower protrusion 4851'. In some cases, the protrusions extending from the cartridge body may include a gradient of height extending between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge body. In at least one case, as discussed above, the highest protrusion of the gradient may be located at the distal end of the cartridge body, while the lowest protrusion of the gradient may be located at the proximal end of the cartridge body. In other cases, the highest protrusion of the gradient may be located at the proximal end of the cartridge body, while the lowest protrusion of the gradient may be located at the distal end of the cartridge body.

[0330] As discussed above, tissue movement can cause staple displacement when staples are being deployed from the staple cartridge. In various cases, higher protrusions provide greater control over such displacement compared to lower protrusions. More specifically, see again... Figure 84 Compared to the lower proximal protrusion 4851', the higher distal protrusion 4851" allows the staple recess 4850 to extend further, resulting in a longer distance by which the staple 4830" is controlled by the distal protrusion 4851" compared to the distance the staple 4830' is controlled by the proximal protrusion 4851'. The higher protrusion 4851" also increases the upward elevation distance of the staple 4830' before its legs emerge from the cavity 4850. This arrangement reduces the distance and / or time required for greater tissue movement where the staple 4830" is exposed to, for example, the distal end of the staple cartridge 4800.

[0331] As discussed above, a staple cartridge can use more than one staple configuration in a longitudinal staple row. In various cases, the staple cartridge can utilize staples with different configurations in different longitudinal staple rows. In at least one case, the staple cartridge may include a staple having a first configuration in a first longitudinal staple row and a second configuration in a second longitudinal staple row. Now turn to Figure 49 and Figure 49A The staple cartridge 2700 may, for example, include a plurality of longitudinal rows of staple cavities 2750 defined therein, wherein each of the staple cavities 2750 defined in the first row may include a first staple 2730' removably stored therein. Figure 50 The nail cavity 2750 defined in the second row may each include a second nail 2730 removably stored therein. Figure 51 ), and the nail cavity 2750 defined in the third row may each include a third nail 2730 removably stored therein. Figure 52 The first nail 2730' can be positioned in the innermost longitudinal nail row cavity 2750, the second nail 2730" can be positioned in the middle nail row cavity 2750, and the third nail 2730"' can be positioned in the outermost longitudinal nail row cavity 2750. When the first height A' is present... Figure 50 The first nail 2730' and the second height A" Figure 51 When the second pin 2730” is in its unfired configuration, the second pin 2730” may be higher than the first pin 2730'. Similarly, when the second pin 2730” and the first pin 2730' have a third height A”’ ( Figure 52 When the third pin 2730”' is in its unfired configuration, the third pin 2730”' can be higher than the second pin 2730”.

[0332] In various cases, each row of nails can be supported by a row of nail drivers. For example, a first row of nail drivers can support the first nail 2730' of the first row, a second row of nail drivers can support the second nail 2730" of the second row, and a third row of nail drivers can support the third nail 2730"' of the third row. In some cases, refer to Figure 49 and Figure 49AA row of nail drivers 2742 can support a first row of first nails 2730' and a second row of second nails 2730"', such that each nail driver 2742 can, for example, support and fire at least one first nail 2730' and at least one second nail 2730"'. A row of nail drivers 2740 can support a third row of third nails 2730"', such that each nail driver 2740 can support and fire at least one third nail 2730"'. Each nail driver 2742 may include a first base 2741' configured to support the first nail 2730' and a second base 2741"' configured to support the second nail 2730"', and similarly, each nail driver 2740 may include a third base 2741"' configured to support the third nail 2730"'. When the nail drivers 2740 and 2742 are in their unfired positions, as Figure 49A As shown, the first base 2741' can be supported at a first distance 2732' from the first row of forming recesses 23 defined in the anvil 20, the second base 2741" can be supported at a second distance 2732" from the second row of forming recesses 23 defined in the anvil 20, and the third base 2741"' can be supported at a third distance 2732"' from the third row of forming recesses 23 defined in the anvil 20. The first distance may be different from the second distance, and / or the second distance may be different from the third distance. Figure 49 As shown, the first distance is shorter than the second distance, and the second distance is shorter than the third distance. When the actuators 2740 and 2742 are lifted towards the anvil 20 by the firing member 2760, for example to eject nails 2730', 2730”, and 2730”' from the nail cavity 2750, the first nail 2730', the second nail 2730”, and / or the third nail 2730”' can be formed with different forming heights. For example, the innermost row of nails (i.e., nails 2730') can be formed with the first forming height, the middle row of nails (i.e., nails 2730”) can be formed with the second forming height, and the outer row of nails (i.e., nails 2730”') can be formed with the third forming height. The first height can be lower than the second height, and the second height can be lower than the third height. U.S. Patent No. 8,317,070, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES THAT PRODUCE FORMEDSTAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT LENGTHS”, published on November 27, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0333] In various cases, the platform of the staple cartridge can be flat. In such cases, the protrusion described herein may extend from the flat platform surface. In other cases, the platform of the staple cartridge may include a stepped surface, which may include, for example, at least two stepped surfaces. See again Figure 49 and Figure 49AThe cartridge 2700's body 2710 may include a first platform side positioned on a first side of a longitudinal blade channel 2715, and a second platform side positioned on a second side of the longitudinal blade channel 2715. Each platform side includes, for example, a first step 2711', a second step 2711"", and a third step 2711"'". A first longitudinal staple cavity 2750 may be defined in the first step 2711', a second longitudinal staple cavity 2750 may be defined in the second step 2711"", and a third longitudinal staple cavity 2750 may be defined in the third step 2711"'. When the anvil 20 is in its closed position, the tissue contact surface 21 of the anvil 20 may be positioned adjacent to the platform surface of the cartridge 2710. In such cases, the tissue contact surface 21 can be positioned at a first distance 2712' from the first step 2711', a second distance 2712' from the second step 2711", and a third distance 2712' from the third step 2711". In various cases, the first, second, and / or third distances may differ. Figure 49 and Figure 49A As shown, the first distance 2712' is shorter than the second distance 2712", and the second distance 2712" is shorter than the third distance 2712"'. In various cases, the first distance 2712' may define a first tissue gap between the first step 2711' and the anvil 20, the second distance 2712" may define a second tissue gap between the second step 2711" and the anvil 20, and the third distance 2712"' may define a third tissue gap between the third step 2711"' and the anvil 20. The first tissue gap positioned on the innermost staple cavity 2750 may be smaller than the third tissue gap positioned on the outermost staple cavity 2750. The second tissue gap positioned on the intermediate staple cavity 2750 may be larger than the first tissue gap but smaller than the third tissue gap.

[0334] In addition to what has been said above, and see again Figure 49 and Figure 49A A first longitudinal row protrusion 2751' may extend from a first step 2711', a second longitudinal row protrusion 2751" may extend from a second step 2711"', and a third longitudinal row protrusion 2751"' may extend from a third step 2711"'. The first protrusion 2751' may be defined by a first height 2755', the second protrusion 2751"' may be defined by a second height 2755"', and the third protrusion 2751"' may be defined by a third height 2755"'. The first height, second height, and / or third height may be different. Figure 49 and Figure 49AAs shown, the first height 2755' may be lower than the second height 2755", and the second height 2755" may be lower than the third height 2755"'. In various cases, the lowest longitudinal row protrusion, i.e., protrusion 2751', may extend along the innermost row cavity 2750, the highest longitudinal row protrusion, i.e., protrusion 2751"', may extend along the outermost row cavity 2750, and the protrusion with a medium height, i.e., protrusion 2751"', may extend along the middle row cavity 2750. Figure 76 An alternative embodiment is shown, wherein the highest longitudinal row protrusion, i.e., protrusion 2751”', extends along the innermost row cavity 2750, the lowest longitudinal row protrusion, i.e., protrusion 2751”', extends along the outermost row cavity 2750, and a protrusion of medium height, i.e., protrusion 2751”, can extend along the middle row cavity 2750.

[0335] See you again Figure 76The staple cartridge 4000 may be similar in many respects to the staple cartridge 2700 discussed above. Similar to the staple cartridge 2700, the staple cartridge 4000 may include a longitudinal staple row cavity 2750, which includes a first staple row cavity 2750, a second staple row cavity 2750 and a third staple row cavity 2750, the first staple row cavity including a first staple 2730' removably stored therein, the second staple row cavity including a second staple 2730"' removably stored therein, and the third staple row cavity including a third staple 2730"' removably stored therein. Contrary to staple cartridge 2700, the first row of staples 2730' includes the outermost row of staples and the third row of staples 2730"' includes the innermost row of staples. Staple cartridge 4000 may include actuators 4040 and 4042 configured to support the third staple 2730"' at a third forming distance 2732"' from the anvil 20, support the second staple 2730"' at a second forming distance 2732"' from the anvil 20, and support the first staple 2730' at a first forming distance 2732"' from the anvil 20 when actuators 4040 and 4042 are in an unfired or unlifted position. Actuator 40 40 and 4042 can deform the innermost row of staples (i.e., staple 2730”') to a third shaping height, the middle row of staples (i.e., staple 2730”) to a second shaping height, and the outermost row of staples (i.e., staple 2730”) to a first shaping height. For example, the third shaping height may be higher than the second shaping height, and the second shaping height may be higher than the first shaping height. Similar to staple cartridge 2700, staple cartridge 4000 may include a stepped platform surface; however, the third step 2711”' may extend along the innermost row of staple cavity 2750 and the first step 2711”' may extend along the outermost row of staple cavity 2750. The first tissue gap defined by the first gap distance 2712”' may be laterally positioned outward relative to the second tissue gap defined by the second gap distance 2712”', and the second gap distance 2712”' may be laterally positioned outward relative to the third tissue gap defined by the third gap distance 2712”'.

[0336] Figures 70 to 72The image shows a staple cartridge 3600. The staple cartridge 3600 may include a cartridge body 3610. The cartridge body 3610 may include a distal end 3613, a proximal end 3616, and opposing sides 3612. The cartridge body 3610 may also include a platform 3611, a plurality of staple cavities 3650 defined in the platform 3611, and a longitudinal slot 3615 configured to receive a cutting edge, such as a firing member. The cartridge body 3610 may also include protrusions 2051 and 2053 extending from the cartridge platform 3611. The cartridge body 3610 may also include a protrusion 3651 extending from the cartridge platform 3611. Similar to protrusion 2051, protrusion 3651 may be configured to engage tissue positioned between the anvil and the cartridge 3600 and control tissue movement relative to the cartridge 3600. In various cases, protrusion 3651 may be configured to restrict or prevent tissue flow relative to the cartridge. Protrusion 3651 may be positioned at the proximal and / or distal end of the nail cavity 3650. In various cases, each protrusion 3651 may include a sleeve extending around the end of the nail cavity 3650. In various cases, each protrusion 3651 may include an arched ridge extending around the end of the nail cavity 3650. In various cases, protrusion 3651 may not be as high as protrusions 2051 and / or 2053. Higher protrusions 2051 may exert greater local pressure on the tissue compared to lower protrusions 3651. In various cases, protrusions 2051 may provide sufficient control over the tissue to hold the assembly in the proper position during firing. In such cases, protrusions 3651 may provide additional control over the tissue in addition to protecting and guiding the nail positioned in the nail cavity 3650.

[0337] In addition to the above, platform 3611 may include steps 2711', 2711" and 2711"' configured to compress tissue positioned between chamber 3610 and anvil. In various cases, third step 2711"' may include a lowest platform surface extending along the outermost pin cavity 3650 and around the distal end 3613 of chamber 2610. Second step 2711" may extend upward from the lowest platform surface 2711"' and first step 2711' may extend upward from the second step 2711"'. As chamber 3610 slides relative to tissue, tissue may flow across the distal end 3613 of chamber 3610 and onto steps 2711', 2711" and 2711"'. Chamber 3610 may also include ramps 3614' and 3614 respectively configured to facilitate tissue sliding onto steps 2711' and 2711"'. As discussed above, steps 2711', 2711”, and 2711”’ can be used to control tissue flow relative to the staple cartridge 3600. See also: Figure 71In various cases, the step 2711' can define a smaller tissue gap between the cartridge 3600 and the anvil, compared to the tissue gap defined between the step 2711' and the anvil, and / or the tissue gap defined between the step 2711' and the anvil. When the step 2711' and the minimum tissue gap are adjacent to the longitudinal slot 3615, the tissue adjacent to the longitudinal slot 3615 can undergo more compression and more control compared to tissue laterally positioned relative to the step 2711'. Such embodiments can be advantageous for a variety of reasons. For example, the cutting member passing through the longitudinal slot 3615 can attempt to displace the tissue captured between the cartridge 3600 and the anvil, and the tissue displacement can be prevented, mitigated, or reduced due to the compression applied by the innermost step 2711'.

[0338] As mentioned above Figure 76 As discussed in the illustrated embodiment, the staple cartridge may include a stepped platform surface in which the minimum tissue gap extends co-linearly with the outermost longitudinal staple cavity. In such cases, the minimum tissue gap may be adjacent to the side of the cartridge, and due to the compression exerted by the outermost step, tissue displacement, particularly lateral displacement, may be prevented, mitigated, or reduced. In some cases, see again... Figures 70 to 72 Lateral displacement of tissue captured between the staple cartridge 3600 and the anvil can be prevented, mitigated, or reduced by lateral sidewalls 3617. Each lateral sidewall 3617 may extend from the side 3612 of the cartridge body 3610 and block lateral movement of the tissue. The sidewalls 3617 may include any suitable configuration. In at least one case, each sidewall 3617 may include, for example, a serrated top surface. Now turn to Figure 73 The staple cartridge 3700 may include a cartridge body 3710, which includes lateral sidewalls 3717 extending from a side surface 3712 of the cartridge body 3710. In at least one case, each lateral sidewall 3717 may include, for example, a straight top surface.

[0339] Now go to Figure 74The staple cartridge 3800 may include a cartridge body 3810, which includes a distal end 3813 and staple cavities 3850. Similar to the above, the cartridge body 3810 may include a protrusion 2053 located at the distal end of the distal staple cavity 3850. Also similar to the above, the cartridge body 3810 may include a protrusion 2051 that may surround the proximal and / or distal ends of at least some of the staple cavities 3850. In addition to or instead of the protrusions 2051 and 2053, the cartridge body 3810 may also include protrusions 3851 extending therefrom. Each protrusion 3851 may extend around the end of more than one staple cavity 3850. In at least one case, each protrusion 3851 may extend, for example, around the end of the staple cavity 3850 in the innermost row of staple cavities 3850, the end of the staple cavity 3850 in the outermost row of staple cavities 3850, and / or the end of the staple cavity 3850 in the intermediate row of staple cavities. In at least one of these cases, a first portion of the protrusion 3851 extends a first nail cavity 3850 above the platform surface, a second portion of the protrusion 3851 extends a second nail cavity 3850 above the platform surface, and a third portion of the protrusion 3851 extends a third nail cavity 3850 above the platform surface. The first portion of the protrusion 3851 protects, guides, and / or retains a first nail, the second portion protects, guides, and / or retains a second nail, and the third portion protects, guides, and / or retains a third nail. In various cases, the protrusion 3851 may extend between a longitudinal slot 3615 defined in the housing 3810 and a lateral sidewall 3717 extending from the housing 3810. In at least one of these cases, the protrusion 3851 may extend across a first step 2711', a second step 2711"', and / or a third step 2711"'. In other words, the protrusion 3851 may extend across changes in height within the platform of the housing 3810. In some cases, the top or tissue-joining surface of the protrusion 3851 may be flat despite variations in the height of the platform surface. In other cases, the top or tissue-joining surface of the protrusion 3851 may also vary in height. In at least one such case, the top surface of the protrusion 3851 may, for example, be higher when the platform surface is at a higher height and lower when the platform surface is at a lower height. In other cases, the top surface of the protrusion 3851 may, for example, be lower when the platform surface is at a higher height and higher when the platform surface is at a lower height.

[0340] See again in all circumstances Figure 74The housing 3810 may include lateral protrusions or ribs 3817 extending therefrom. The lateral protrusions 3817 may extend laterally to the longitudinal slot 3615 and / or the lateral sidewall 3717. In at least one case, the lateral protrusions 3817 may extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal slot 3615 and / or the lateral sidewall 3717. In at least one case, the lateral protrusions 3817 may extend between the protrusion 3851 and the sidewall 3717. The lateral protrusions 3817 may also extend between the protrusion 2051 and the sidewall 3717, and similarly, between the protrusion 2053 and the sidewall 3717. In some cases, the protrusions 3817 and the sidewall 3717 may have the same height. In other cases, the protrusions 3817 and the sidewall 3717 may have different heights. See also Figure 74 The sidewall 3717 is, for example, higher than the protrusion 3817. In any case, the transverse protrusion 3817 may be configured to restrict or prevent the flow of tissue relative to the staple cartridge 3800, particularly in the distal or longitudinal direction.

[0341] Now go to Figure 81 The staple cartridge 4500 may include a cartridge body 4510, which includes a platform 4511, a proximal end, a distal end 4513, and a longitudinal knife slot 3615 extending between the proximal end and the distal end 4513. Among other features, the cartridge body 4510 may also include an inclined transition 2014, protrusions 2051, 2053, and 3651 at least partially surrounding the staple cavity 3650, and a lateral sidewall 3617. In fact, various embodiments are contemplated in which the tissue control features of the various embodiments disclosed herein can be combined with tissue control features of other embodiments disclosed herein. Furthermore, this document discloses various embodiments in which all staple cavities defined in the staple cartridge may include protrusions at least partially surrounding the staple cavity. Other embodiments are contemplated in which not all staple cavities include protrusions at least partially surrounding the staple cavity. Turning now to... Figure 82The staple cartridge 4600 may include a cartridge body 4610, which includes a platform 4611, a proximal end 4616, a distal end 4613, and a longitudinal knife slot 4615 extending between the proximal end 4616 and the distal end 4613. The cartridge body 4610 may include protrusions 2051 and 2053 extending from the platform 4611 and at least partially surrounding some of the staple cavities in the staple cavity 4650. For example, the proximal end and / or distal end of the staple cavity 4650 defined in the distal end 4613 of the staple cartridge 4600 may be at least partially surrounded by the protrusion 2051, and similarly, the proximal end and / or distal end of the staple cavity 4650 defined in the proximal end 4616 of the staple cartridge 4600 may be at least partially surrounded by the protrusion 2051. In such embodiments, the staple cavity 4650, defined in the middle of the cartridge 4610 (i.e., between the proximal end 4616 and the distal end 4613 of the staple cartridge), may, for example, not be surrounded by the protrusion 2051 and / or any other protrusion. Now turn to Figure 83 The staple cartridge 4700 may include a cartridge body 4710, which includes a platform 4711, a proximal end, and a distal end 4713. The cartridge body 4710 may also include a plurality of staple cavities 4750 defined therein. The distal staple cavity 4750 may include a distal end surrounded by a protrusion 2053 and a proximal end surrounded by a protrusion 2051. Other staple cavities 4750 may include a distal end surrounded by a protrusion 2051 and a proximal end not surrounded by a protrusion. Some staple cavities 4750 may include a proximal end surrounded by a protrusion 2051 and a distal end not surrounded by a protrusion.

[0342] As discussed above, protrusions extending from the platform surface can be configured to protect, support, and / or guide nails positioned within nail recesses. Figure 77 A staple cartridge 4100 is shown, including a body 4110 comprising a platform 4111, a staple cavity 4150 defined in the platform 4111, and a protrusion 4151 extending from the platform 4111. The staple cartridge 4100 may also include a staple 4130 removably positioned in the staple cavity 4150. The protrusion 4151 may include a slot 4154 defined therein, which may be configured to support a leg 4132 of the staple 4130 when the staple 4130 is stored in the staple cavity 4150 and / or when the staple 4130 is being ejected from the staple cavity 4150. The slot 4154 may include an extension of the staple cavity end wall 4152. When the staple 4130 is in the unfired position, the staple cavity end wall 4152 and / or the slot 4154 may cooperate to support the staple leg 4132. When the nail 4130 is ejected from the cavity 4150, the leg 4132 can be exposed from the protrusion 4151, such as Figure 77As shown. In such cases, the end wall 4152 and / or slot 4154 may support a portion of the nail 4130 that has not yet exited the nail cavity 4150. In some cases, the protrusion 4151 may not provide lateral support for the nail leg 4132. More specifically, see Figure 77 The slot 4154 may include opposing sides 4155 that are spaced apart from and do not contact the sides of the pin leg 4132. In various cases, the pin 4130 may be formed into its fully deformed configuration while it is still at least partially positioned in the pin cavity 4150. In at least one such case, the end wall 4152 and / or the slot 4154 may support the pin 4130 throughout its forming process. In other cases, the pin 4130 may reach its fully deformed configuration after it has been lifted out of the slot 4154 and raised above the protrusion 4151. In such cases, the end wall 4152 and the slot 4154 may not support the pin 4130 throughout its forming process.

[0343] Figure 78 A staple cartridge 4200 is shown, including a body 4210 comprising a platform 4211, a staple cavity 4250 defined in the platform 4211, and a protrusion 4251 extending from the platform 4211. The staple cartridge 4200 may also include a staple 4130 removably positioned in the staple cavity 4250. The protrusion 4251 may include a slot 4254 defined therein, which may be configured to support a leg 4132 of the staple 4130 when the staple 4130 is stored in the staple cavity 4250 and / or when the staple 4130 is being ejected from the staple cavity 4250. The slot 4254 may include an extension of the staple cavity end wall 4252. When the staple 4130 is in the unfired position, the staple cavity end wall 4252 and / or the slot 4254 may cooperate to support the staple leg 4132. When the nail 4130 is ejected from the cavity 4250, the leg 4132 can be exposed from the protrusion 4251, such as Figure 78 As shown. In such cases, the end wall 4252 and / or slot 4254 can support a portion of the nail 4130 that has not yet exited the nail cavity 4250. In some cases, the protrusion 4251 can provide lateral support for the nail leg 4132. More specifically, see Figure 78The slot 4254 may include opposing sides 4255 that can contact the sides of the nail leg 4132. In various cases, the nail 4130 may be formed into its fully deformed configuration while it is still at least partially positioned in the nail cavity 4250. In at least one such case, the end wall 4252 and / or the slot 4254 may support the nail 4130 throughout its forming process. In other cases, the nail 4130 may reach its fully deformed configuration after it has been lifted out of the slot 4254 and raised above the protrusion 4251. In such cases, the end wall 4252 and the slot 4254 may not support the nail 4130 throughout its forming process.

[0344] Figure 79 A staple cartridge 4300 is shown, including a body 4310 comprising a platform 4311, a staple cavity 4350 defined in the platform 4311, and a protrusion 4351 extending from the platform 4311. The staple cartridge 4300 may also include a staple 4130 removably positioned in the staple cavity 4350. Each protrusion 4351 may include a tapered slot 4354 defined therein, which may be configured to support a leg 4132 of the staple 4130 when the staple 4130 is stored in the staple cavity 4350 and / or when the staple 4130 is being ejected from the staple cavity 4350. Each slot 4354 may include an extension of the staple cavity end wall 4352 and may include an end wall 4355. When the staple 4130 is in the unfired position, the end wall 4355 of each slot 4354 may engage to support the staple leg 4132. As the reader sees Figure 79 The general understands that the spike leg 4132 may not be supported by the end wall 4352. When the spike 4130 is ejected from the cavity 4350, the leg 4132 may be exposed from the protrusion 4351. In such cases, the end wall 4355 of the slot 4354 may support a portion of the spike 4130 that has not yet been ejected from the spike cavity 4350. In some cases, the side wall 4155 of the protrusion 4351 may provide lateral support for the spike leg 4132. In various cases, the spike 4130 may be formed into its fully deformed configuration while it is still at least partially positioned in the spike cavity 4350. In at least one such case, the slot 4354 may support the spike 4130 throughout its forming process. In other cases, the spike 4130 may reach its fully deformed configuration after it has been lifted out of the slot 4354 and raised above the protrusion 4351. In such cases, slot 4354 may not support pin 4130 during its entire forming process.

[0345] Figure 80A staple cartridge 4400 is shown, including a body 4410 comprising a platform 4411, a staple cavity 4450 defined in the platform 4411, and protrusions 4451a and 4451b extending from the platform 4411. The staple cartridge 4400 may also include, for example, a staple 4130 removably positioned in the staple cavity 4450. The staple cavity 4450 may include a first end wall 4452a configured to support and guide a first leg of the staple 4130, and a second end wall 4452b configured to support and guide a second leg of the staple 4130. The protrusion 4451a may extend from the platform 4411 a first distance 4455a, and the protrusion 4451b may extend from the platform 4411 a second distance 4455b above the protrusion 4451a. Therefore, in various cases, protrusion 4451a may support and guide the first stud leg at a first distance, and protrusion 4451b may support and guide the second stud leg at a second distance, wherein the second distance may be longer than the first distance. In some cases, protrusion 4451b may be positioned at the distal end of the stud cavity 4450, and protrusion 4451a may be positioned at the proximal end of the stud cavity 4450. Such embodiments may be advantageous when the stud 4130 is pushed distally by the distal movement of the firing member and the tissue knife (as discussed above). Alternatively, protrusion 4451b may be positioned at the proximal end of the stud cavity 4450, and protrusion 4451a may be positioned at the distal end of the stud cavity 4450. In any case, protrusion 4451b may include, for example, a stepped configuration. In at least one case, protrusion 4451b may include, for example, a first portion defined by height 4455a and a second portion defined by height 4455b.

[0346] Figures 85A to 85C A staple cartridge 4900 is shown, including a body 4910 and a platform 4911. In various embodiments, the body 4910 may be made of a flexible material. In some embodiments, the body 4910 may be made of both rigid and flexible materials, wherein at least the platform 4911 may be made of a flexible material. Flexible materials may include certain plastic materials such as, for example, polypropylene, and / or elastic materials such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or salvage. In various cases, the platform 4911 may be made of a flexible material. In any case, the platform 4911 may include a protrusion 4951 extending therefrom. Similar to the above, the protrusion 4951 may protect, support, and / or guide the staples 4130. Also similar to the above description, the protrusion 4951 may prevent or at least restrict movement of tissue relative to the staple cartridge 4900. When the anvil is moved to a closed position relative to the staple cartridge 4900, or alternatively, when the staple cartridge 4900 is moved to a closed position relative to the anvil, the protrusion 4951 can be compressed by tissue positioned between the anvil and the staple cartridge 4900. Figures 85A to 85CA series of events are shown in which protrusion 4951 is subjected to increased compressive force. Figure 85A The protrusion 4951 is shown in an uncompressed configuration. In this configuration, there may be a compression or interference fit between the protrusion 4951 and the leg of the nail 4130. Figure 85B The protrusion 4951 is shown in a compression configuration in response to the application of a compressive force. By comparison... Figure 85A and Figure 85B It is understood that the top surface 4956 of the protrusion 4951 has been pushed downward a distance 4955 toward the platform 4911a and the shape of the protrusion 4951 has been deformed. In this configuration, the protrusion 4951 can grasp the spike leg of the spike 4130 and / or hold the spike leg in the proper position. Figure 85C This shows the greater compressive force applied to protrusion 4951. (Comparison) Figure 85B and Figure 85C It is understood that the top surface 4956 of the protrusion 4951 has been pushed further downward toward the platform 4911 and the shape of the protrusion 4951 has been further deformed. In addition, in this configuration, the protrusion 4951 can increase the clamping force applied to the spike leg.

[0347] Figure 86A and Figure 86B A staple cartridge 5000 is shown, including a body 5010 comprising a platform 5011. The body 5010 may also include a plurality of staple cavities 5050 defined therein and a plurality of protrusions 5051 extending from the platform 5011, the protrusions being configured to protect, support, and / or guide staples 5030 removably positioned within the staple cavities 5050. Similar to the above description, the staple cartridge 5000 may also include staple actuators 5040 and 5042, the staple actuators being configured to support and elevate the staples 5030 between an unfired position and a fired position. Figure 86A and Figure 86B The pin 5030 is shown in a partially fired position, with its end partially exposed from the protrusion 5051. Similar to the above, the chamber 5010 may be made of a flexible material. Flexible materials may include certain plastic materials, such as, for example, polypropylene, and / or elastic materials, such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or sorbitol. In various cases, the chamber 5010 may be made of a flexible material. When a compressive force is applied to the chamber 5010, the chamber 5010 may bend, such as… Figure 86B As shown. When the platform 5011 of the 5010 compartment is as follows... Figure 86B When bent downwards as shown, the protrusion 5051 can deflect downwards by a distance 5055. Thus, the protrusion 5051 can be movable.

[0348] Various embodiments are envisioned in which a protrusion extending from the staple cartridge platform is movable relative to the platform. In at least one case, the protrusion is movable between a first position and a second or lowered position, in which the protrusion extends the staple cavity above the platform, and in the second or lowered position, the protrusion may or may not extend the staple cavity above the platform. In various cases, one or more protrusions extending from the platform may be collapsible. Collapsible protrusions are movable between a first position and a second or collapsed position, in which the protrusion extends the staple cavity above the platform, and in the second or collapsed position, the protrusion may or may not extend the staple cavity above the platform. In at least one case, the collapsible protrusion can elastically return to its uncollapsed configuration, while in some cases, the protrusion may not fully return to its uncollapsed configuration. In various cases, one or more protrusions extending from the platform may be crushable. The crushable protrusion is movable between a first position and a second or crushable position, in which the protrusion extends the nail cavity above the platform, and in the second or crushable position, the protrusion may or may not extend the nail cavity above the platform. The crushable protrusion may not revert to its uncrushable configuration.

[0349] As discussed above, when the staples are removably stored in the staple cartridge, the staples in the cartridge can be supported by the staple driver. Also as discussed above, the staple driver can be lifted upwards by a firing member, such as, for example, firing member 2760. In various cases, now turn to... Figure 53 and Figure 54 The firing member may be configured to distally advance a nail slider, such as nail slider 2870, to lift the nail driver and nail toward the anvil. Nail slider 2870 may include a body 2871 and a shoulder 2876, the shoulder being configured to engage and support the firing member 2760. Slider 2870 may also include, for example, ramped or inclined surfaces 2872, 2873, 2874, and / or 2875 configured to slide beneath the nail driver and lift the nail driver upward as slider 2870 slides beneath the nail driver. In various cases, in addition to those described above, for example, the first ramp surface 2872 may be configured to contact and lift the nail driver in the first row of nail drivers, the second ramp surface 2873 may be configured to contact and lift the nail driver in the second row of nail drivers, the third ramp surface 2874 may be configured to contact and lift the nail driver in the third row of nail drivers, and the fourth ramp surface 2875 may be configured to contact and lift the nail driver in the fourth row of nail drivers.

[0350] In various cases, in addition to the above, the slider 2870 can be configured to simultaneously lift the nail drivers in four rows of nail drivers. In some cases, the slider 2870 can simultaneously lift the nail drivers in these four rows of nail drivers. In such cases, the distal ends of the four ramp surfaces 2872, 2873, 2874 and / or 2875 can be configured to simultaneously contact the four nail drivers and lift them along four parallel lifting surfaces, such that the nail drivers reach the same height simultaneously. Additionally, in such cases, the ramp surfaces 2872, 2873, 2874 and / or 2875 can all have the same length. In other cases, although in an alternating manner, the slider 2870 can simultaneously lift the nail drivers in each row of the four rows of nail drivers. See also: Figure 54 The distal end 2872a of the first ramp 2872 may be aligned with the distal end 2875a of the fourth ramp 2875. In various cases, the first ramp 2872 may be parallel to the fourth ramp 2875. Furthermore, the first ramp 2872 may define a first ramp length that is the same as the fourth ramp length defined by the fourth ramp 2875. The distal end 2873a of the second ramp 2873 may be positioned distally relative to the distal ends 2872a of the first ramp 2872 and 2875a of the fourth ramp 2875 by a distance indicated by distance 2879a. The second ramp 2873 may not be parallel to the first ramp 2872 and / or the fourth ramp 2875. Furthermore, the second ramp 2873 may define a second ramp length longer than the lengths of the first ramp and / or the fourth ramp. The distal end 2874a of the third slope 2874 may be positioned distally relative to the distal end 2873a of the second slope 2873 by a distance indicated by distance 2878a. The third slope 2874 may not be parallel to the first slope 2872, the second slope 2873, and / or the fourth slope 2875. Furthermore, the third slope 2874 may define a third slope length longer than the lengths of the first slope, the second slope, and / or the fourth slope.

[0351] When the slider contacts the nail actuator, in addition to what has been described above, a reaction force and / or torque can be generated between the slider and the nail actuator, thereby causing the slider and / or the nail actuator to rotate in response to the reaction force and / or torque. Figure 53 and Figure 54The ramp arrangement shown can prevent or at least limit the rotation of the slider 2870 when it contacts and lifts the pin driver. Furthermore, the slider 2870 may include a stabilizing member 2877 extending distally to stabilize the slider 2870 and prevent and / or suppress rocking or rotation of the slider 2870. The stabilizing member 2877 may extend distally relative to the distal ends 2872a, 2873a, 2874a, and 2875a of ramps 872, 2873, 2874, and 2875, respectively.

[0352] Now go to Figures 54A to 54D The slider 2870 may be configured to deploy staples from the staple cartridge 2000, for example, when the slider 2870 moves from the proximal end 2016 of the staple cartridge 2000 toward the distal end 2013 of the staple cartridge 2000. The staple cartridge 2000 and / or the slider 2870 may include features that allow the slider 2870 to be releasably retained in the proximal end 2016 of the staple cartridge 2000. In various cases, the cartridge body 2010 of the staple cartridge 2000 may include a stop 2019 configured to engage and releasably retain the slider 2870 in a proximal unfired position, such as... Figure 54A As shown. In at least one case, see primarily [reference needed]. Figure 54B and Figure 54C Each stopper 2019 may include a rib or ridge extending inwardly into a longitudinal slot 2015. The ridge may extend vertically within, for example, the longitudinal slot 2015. In addition to the above, the body 2871 of the slider 2870 may be positioned within the longitudinal slot 2015 and may engage with the stopper 2870 when the slider 2870 is in its proximal unfired position, such as... Figure 54A As shown. In various cases, the stop 2019 may define a gap smaller than the width of the body 2871. In such cases, an interference fit may exist between the stop 2019 and the body 2871 of the slider 2870, such that the stop 2019 can grip and hold the slider 2870 in a suitable position. When the firing member pushes the slider 2870 distally, the body 2871 may be pushed to disengage from the stop 2019, and the slider 2870 may be advanced distally to fire the nails stored in the nail cartridge 2000. In various cases, see now. Figure 54DThe body 2871 of the slider 2870 may include a groove 2018 defined therein, which may be configured to releasably receive a stop 2019. When aligned, the groove 2018 and the stop 2019 may define a proximal unfired position of the slider 2870. Although two sets of grooves 2018 and stops 2019 are present in the illustrated embodiment, a single set may also be used to releasably hold the slider 2870 in the appropriate position. In other cases, more than two sets of grooves 2018 and stops 2019 may be used. In some cases, the stop 2019 may extend from the body 2871 of the slider 2870 and the groove 2018 may be defined in the housing 2010.

[0353] As discussed above, the chamber may include a tissue support platform and a protrusion extending from the platform, the protrusion being configured to: 1) control the flow of tissue relative to the chamber; 2) extend a nail cavity defined in the chamber above the platform; and / or, 3) support, protect, and / or guide nails in the nail cavity. In various cases, the chamber and the protrusion may be made of a single piece of material. In at least one case, the protrusion may be integrally formed with the chamber. The chamber and the protrusion may be made of a plastic material and may be formed, for example, during an injection molding process. In some cases, the protrusion may be fitted to the chamber. In at least one case, the protrusion may be adhered to, for example, the chamber. The chamber and the protrusion may be made of the same material or different materials. In at least one case, the chamber may be made of a plastic material and the protrusion may be made of an elastic material such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomer, and / or saturates. In various cases, the protrusion may be made of a flexible material and may not harm the tissue compressed by the protrusion. Protrusion 3051 ( Figure 60 ) and / or protrusion 3151 ( Figure 61 For example, it can be made of elastic materials such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or savantine. In at least one case, the chamber can be formed during the plastic injection molding process, and the protrusions can be formed on the chamber using a material that is more flexible than the material constituting the chamber, during a second molding process. In various cases, the protrusions 3051 and / or 3151 may, for example, include textured platform surfaces. In some cases, the protrusions 3051 and / or 3151 may, for example, be made of a material having a higher coefficient of friction than the chamber. Such embodiments can improve the gripping force between the chamber and the tissue.

[0354] In various cases, the protrusions extending from the cartridge body may be stationary and immobile relative to the cartridge body. In some cases, as discussed above, the protrusions may be flexible and deformable relative to the cartridge body. In other cases, also as discussed above, the cartridge body may be flexible, allowing the protrusions to move as the cartridge body flexes. A staple cartridge may include protrusions that can extend relative to the cartridge body. Now turn to... Figure 75The staple cartridge 3900 may include a cartridge body 3910 having a plurality of cavities 3950 defined therein. In various cases, the cavities 3950 may include deployable tissue engagement members 3940 positioned therein. Each member 3940 is movable from a non-deployed position to a deployed position. When the member 3940 is in its non-deployed position, the member 3940 may not extend over the platform 3911, and when the member 3940 is in its deployed position, the member 3940 may extend over the platform 3911. Alternatively, the member 3940 may extend over the platform 3911 when in its non-deployed position. In at least one such embodiment, the tissue engagement member 3940 may engage tissue in both its non-deployed and deployed positions. In any case, the member 3940 may include a protrusion 3951 extending therefrom, which may be configured to engage, stabilize, and / or compress tissue positioned between the anvil 20 and the cartridge 3900.

[0355] See you again Figure 75 Component 3940 can be deployed via a slider 3970 that longitudinally traverses the compartment 3910 from its proximal end to its distal end. Slider 3970 may include a ramp 3972 configured to sequentially engage and elevate component 3940 between its undeployed and deployed positions. In at least one case, each component 3940 may include a sloped or angled surface 3942 that can be contacted by ramp 3972. Ramp 3972 can slide beneath component 3940 and elevate component 3940 onto surface 3979. Surface 3979 can hold component 3940 in its deployed position when slider 3970 is advanced distally by a firing component, such as firing component 2760. Figure 75 As shown, surface 3979 may be long enough to support a plurality of members 3940 thereon. Furthermore, surface 3979 may be long enough to support members 3940 during nailing and tissue cutting performed by firing member 2760. In at least one case, surface 3979 may be positioned anteriorly or distally relative to the cutting edge 2761 of firing member 2760. In such cases, members 3940 may hold the tissue distally positioned relative to the cutting edge 2761 as the cutting edge 2761 moves distally through the tissue. In other words, tissue-engaging members 3940 may be deployed to grasp a portion of the tissue before the tissue portion is sutured and / or cut. Cavity 3950 may be configured to support and guide members 3940 and inhibit translational or rotational movement of members 3940 within cavity 3950. The proximal end of surface 3979 may be constructed and arranged such that once the cutting edge 2761 has passed through member 3940, the slider 3970 can release member 3940. In at least one such case, once the cutting edge 2761 has been slid by member 3940, surface 3979 may no longer support member 3940.

[0356] In addition to the above, see again Figure 75 Cavities 3950 can be arranged in longitudinal rows. For example, cavities 3950 can be arranged in six longitudinal rows comprising two innermost rows, two outermost rows, and a row positioned between each innermost and each outermost row. Other embodiments are contemplated in which cavities 3950 are arranged in fewer or more than six rows. In any case, as discussed above, some cavities of 3950 defined in the housing 3910 can be configured to support and guide member 3940, and some cavities of 3950 can contain, for example, nails such as nail 2630 removably stored therein. Slider 3970 can be configured to deploy member 3940 and further fire nails. In at least one such case, as discussed above, slider 3970 may also include at least one ramp 2873 comprising a ramp surface 3971 configured to lift nail driver 2640, for example, toward anvil 20, which can fire nail 2630. In various cases, ramp 3972 may be located ahead of ramp 2873. In such cases, ramp 3972 may deploy component 3940 into its deployment position before ramp 2873 elevates the staples of adjacent component 3940 into its fully formed position. Various embodiments are contemplated in which the outermost row cavity 3950 includes tissue-engaging components 3940 stored therein, and the innermost and intermediate row cavities 3950 include staples removably stored therein. Such embodiments may include two rows of staples and one row of tissue-engaging components 3940 on each side of a longitudinal slit defined in a chamber. Other embodiments are contemplated in which any suitable arrangement of components 3940 and staples may be used.

[0357] As discussed above, embodiments in which the staple cartridge may include multiple rows of staples and multiple rows of deployable tissue-jointing members are contemplated. In at least one embodiment, the deployable tissue-jointing members may not be scattered within the staple rows. Other embodiments are contemplated, in which the deployable tissue-jointing members are scattered within the staple rows. Also as discussed above, embodiments in which staple cavities are contemplated to store the deployable tissue-jointing members are contemplated. Certain embodiments are contemplated, in which the tissue-jointing members are not stored within staple cavities and may be stored within staple rows adjacent to the staple cavities.

[0358] Figures 90 to 93Another embodiment including a deployable tissue engagement protrusion is shown. The staple cartridge 5300 may, for example, include a cartridge body 5310 including a platform 5311 defined therein and a plurality of staple cavities 5350. The staple cartridge 5310 may include staples 5330 removably stored within the staple cavities 5350 and a plurality of actuators 5340 configured to eject the staples 5330 from the staple cavities 5350. The staple cartridge 5310 may also include one or more deployable protrusions 5351 removably stored within the staple cavities 5350, as will be discussed further in more detail below. Each actuator 5340 may include a base 5341 configured to support the staple 5330, and may further include a drive surface 5342 configured to engage with a slider such as, for example, a slider 5370. Similar to the above, the slider 5370 may be configured to elevate the actuator 5340 between an undeployed position and a deployed position. Figure 92 The drive 5340 and the pin 5330 in their undeployed position are shown. See also: Figure 93 The driver 5340 may be configured to lift the deployable protrusion 5351 between an undeployed position and a deployed position. In at least one such case, see primarily [reference needed]. Figure 90 and Figure 91 Each actuator 5340 may be assembled between a first deployable protrusion 5351 positioned around a proximal end of the actuator 5340 and a second deployable protrusion 5351 positioned around a distal end of the actuator 5340, wherein upward movement of the actuator 5340 may be transmitted to the deployable protrusion 5351 to move the protrusion 5351 to its deployment position. In at least one case, the protrusion 5351 may frictionally engage with the actuator 5340. When the actuator 5340 is lifted upward, the frictional engagement between the actuator 5340 and the protrusion 5351 may lift the protrusion 5351 upward. Each protrusion 5351 may include a tissue engagement portion 5352 that may be configured to contact tissue and apply a compressive force to the tissue. In various cases, the protrusion 5351 may apply a compressive force to the tissue until the compressive force exceeds the static friction between the protrusion 5351 and the actuator 5340 that moves the protrusion 5351 upward. At this point, the actuator 5340 may move or slide relative to the protrusion 5351. In other words, the driver 5340 can be disengaged from the protrusion 5341 associated with it.

[0359] See again in all circumstances Figure 93When the protrusion 5351 is in its undeployed position, the tissue engagement portion 5352 of the deployable protrusion 5351 may not extend above the platform 5311. In other cases, when the protrusion 5351 is in its undeployed position, the tissue engagement portion 5352 of the deployable protrusion 5351 may extend above the platform 5311. In any case, when the protrusion 5351 is in its deployed position, the tissue engagement portion 5352 of the deployable protrusion 5351 may extend above the platform 5311. In addition to the above, the frictional engagement between each protrusion 5351 and the actuator 5340 may be the same, such that the force (i.e., sliding force) by which the actuator 5340 slides relative to the protrusion 5351 may be the same for each protrusion 5351. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the frictional engagement between some protrusions 5351 and some actuators 5340 may differ from that between other protrusions 5351 and other actuators 5340. In such embodiments, the sliding force between the protrusion 5351 and the actuator 5340 may be different. In at least one embodiment, a first protrusion 5351 positioned at the distal end of the actuator 5340 may begin to slide with a first sliding force, and a second protrusion 5351 positioned at the proximal end of the actuator 5340 may begin to slide with a second sliding force different from the first sliding force. In various cases, due to the above, the compressive force that the protrusion 5351 can exert on the tissue may be limited. Furthermore, due to the above, the distance that the protrusion 5351 can extend from the platform 5311 of the housing 5310 may be limited. In various cases, the protrusion 5351 may include a variable response to the type and / or thickness of the sutured tissue. For example, the protrusion 5351 may be deployed further away from the platform 5311 when the tissue is thinner and / or more flexible than when the tissue is thicker and / or more rigid. In any case, the sliding engagement between the actuator 5340 and the protrusion 5351 prevents the tissue from being overcompressed by the protrusion 5351.

[0360] In addition to the above, the protrusion 5351 may float relative to the cartridge platform 5311. In various cases, the protrusion 5351 may dynamically respond to compressive pressure formed within the tissue captured between the anvil 20 and the cartridge 5300. In at least one case, the firing member 2760 may push or move the anvil 20 toward the cartridge 5300 cam as the firing member 2760 advances distally. As the anvil 20 moves toward the cartridge 5300, the tissue may be compressed by the anvil 20, wherein, in response, the protrusion 5351 may move downward or retract into, for example, the cartridge body 5310.

[0361] In various cases, the staple cartridge may include a protrusion rigidly extending from the platform of the cartridge body. In at least one case, the platform and the protrusion may not move relative to each other. In other cases, the platform may move relative to the protrusion. In at least one such case, the protrusion may extend securely from the cartridge body, and the platform may include a movable surface. When tissue is compressed between the anvil and such staple cartridge, the platform may move downward relative to the protrusion. The platform is movable between a first position and a second position. When the platform is in its first position, the protrusion may not extend above the top surface of the platform. In such a case, when the platform is in its first position, the protrusion may be recessed below the top surface of the platform. When the platform moves to its second position, the protrusion may be exposed and extend above the top surface of the platform. Alternatively, when the platform is in both its first and second positions, the protrusion may extend above the top platform surface. In either case, the distance the platform moves relative to the protrusion may be a function of the pressure applied to the tissue. For example, when a larger compressive force is applied to the tissue, the platform may move a larger distance, and when a smaller compressive force is applied to the tissue, the platform may move a smaller distance. The top platform surface may float in response to compressive pressure applied thereto. Certain embodiments are contemplated in which the platform comprises a single sheet of material. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the platform comprises multiple sections. In at least one such embodiment, each section may react independently of the others. In various cases, the platform may be made of an elastic material that can deflect in response to compressive pressure applied thereto. In at least one case, the platform may be made of, for example, foam. In some cases, the platform may be made of, for example, oxidized regenerated cellulose. The platform may be made of implantable material or implantable material. The platform may be implantable or not implantable in a patient. In various cases, the platform may include a hole defined therein, which allows relative movement between the platform and a protrusion. In at least one such case, the hole may include a through-hole, and the protrusion may be positioned within the through-hole. In some cases, the hole may include a slot extending around the staple cavity and one or more protrusions extending around the staple cavity. When the staple is ejected from the staple cavity, the staple may pass through the opening provided by the slot. In some cases, at least a portion of the platform may be captured by the staple to abut against sutured tissue implanted into the platform.

[0362] In various cases, the staple cartridges disclosed herein may include auxiliary materials. The auxiliary materials may include at least one material layer positioned on the platform of the staple cartridge and implanted into the patient, for example, by staples deployed from the staple cartridge. In various cases, the at least one material layer may include, for example, support materials and / or tissue thickness compensation elements. The at least one material layer may be composed of, for example, Gore SeamGuard material, Synovis Peri-Strips material, and / or polyurethane. Several references disclosing such layers are incorporated herein by reference. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,095 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0161374), filed February 28, 2013, entitled “LAYERARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES”, is incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,619 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318842), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING INCORPORATING A HEMOSTATIC AGENT”; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,623 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318843), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN OXYGEN GENERATING AGENT”; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,623 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318843), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-MICROBIAL”. The entire disclosures of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,627 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0312860) entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT”, filed June 25, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,630 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318844) entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT”, are incorporated herein by reference. The layer may be composed of bioabsorbable and / or non-bioabsorbable materials. In some cases, the material layer may be attached to the platform.In at least one instance, at least one adhesive may be used to releasably adhere the layer to the platform. In some instances, the material layer may be releasably attached to the platform using, for example, one or more sutures or strips. In some instances, the layer may comprise a sheet of solid material. In some instances, the layer may comprise a hole defined therein. In at least one such instance, the layer may be used with, for example, a staple cartridge 2000, and may comprise, for example, holes, slits, and / or slots defined therein, aligned with protrusions 2051 and / or 2053 extending from the platform 2011 of the staple cartridge 2010. In some instances, the hole may comprise a through-hole or window extending fully through the layer. For example, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be cut into the layer using, for example, a blade-type cutting member. In some instances, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be formed, for example, during layer molding. In some instances, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be formed in the layer using, for example, a laser cutting process. In some instances, the hole may comprise a recess defined in the layer that does not fully extend through the layer. In various cases, the protrusion may be tightly received within the bore, thereby preventing or at least limiting relative movement between the chamber 2010 and the layer. In at least one such case, an interference fit may be present between the protrusion and the sidewall of the bore.

[0363] In addition to the above, the auxiliary layer may be composed of, for example, woven layers and / or nonwoven layers. The layer may be composed of, for example, a membrane. In various cases, the layer may include, for example, textured surfaces, protrusions, and / or projections extending therefrom that layer, which may be configured to prevent or at least restrict tissue flow relative to the staple cartridge. The layer may include a first set of regions and a second set of regions, the first set of regions being engaged by and / or captured within staples ejected from the staple cartridge, and the second set of regions not being engaged by or captured within staples. In various cases, the second set of regions may be modified. In at least one case, the layer may be composed of a membrane, and the second set of regions of the membrane may be modified to include, for example, holes, slits, and / or slots. In at least one case, the periphery of such a layer may include slits defined therein that may soften the edges of the layer. In some cases, a slit pattern may be formed in the layer. In at least one such case, the slit pattern may include, for example, slits extending at a 45-degree angle to each other. In some cases, the depth, width, and / or spacing of the slits may be arbitrary. The aforementioned cuts can make the film layer more flexible, stretchable, and / or compliant. These cuts can be made onto, for example, woven or nonwoven materials. Any suitable process can be used to create these cuts, such as by means of a mechanical blade system and / or a laser cutting system. In various cases, the first set of regions of the layer may not be modified as discussed above.

[0364] As discussed above, layers composed of solid material sheets can be modified to make them more flexible, stretchable, and / or compliant. A layer can be assembled from several material sheets bonded together. In at least one case, holes, slits, and / or slots may be present between the bonded material sheets. In some cases, strips of highly inelastic absorbable polymers can be welded to a thinner, more flexible membrane to provide stretch in certain desired directions and restrict stretch in other directions. Such strips can also be used to reinforce high-stress portions of the membrane while allowing other portions of the membrane to remain soft and compliant. One way to achieve this effect would be to fabricate several thin strips composed of a stiffer polymer such as, for example, Vicryl. These strips can be, for example, about 0.015" to 0.030" wide and extend, for example, the entire length of the studs. Six strips can be arranged to correspond to the lateral width of the studs in six longitudinal rows of studs. Thin, continuous film layers, for example, about 0.003" to 0.005" wide, can then be welded to these six strips and made of a soft and elastic polymer such as, for example, Monocryl or 36 / 64PGA / PCL. In some cases, compression molding can be used. The result is that the highly reinforced nails with soft sides are easily stretched laterally rather than longitudinally. Strips extending from the film can even produce traction-retaining features that minimize tissue flow on the film in the desired direction. In some cases, the layers made of woven and / or nonwoven materials can be modified to cure certain areas of the layer, such as, for example, a first set of areas. Flat extruded fibers can be woven into strips, and then, for example, the first set of areas can be fused together to cure them using felting and / or another heat-based technique. In some cases, the entire layer can be fused together.

[0365] As discussed above, the cartridge may include protrusions extending from the cartridge body. In addition to or instead of these protrusions, the anvil may include protrusions extending therefrom, which may be configured to: 1) control the flow of tissue relative to the anvil and the cartridge body; 2) extend the cartridge cavity from the opposite side of the tissue; and / or, 3) support and / or guide the staple as it is being ejected from the cartridge cavity.

[0366] Figure 66 and Figure 67An anvil 3320 is shown. The anvil 3320 may include a distal end 3323, a proximal end 3326, and a tissue engagement surface 3321. The anvil 3320 may also include a pivot 3327 about which the anvil 3320 is rotatable between an open and closed position. The anvil 3320 may also include a longitudinal slot 3325 defined therein, configured to receive a portion therein of a firing member and / or a cutting member. The anvil 3320 may also include a side surface, which may include a longitudinal projection or wall 3323 extending therefrom. In various cases, the longitudinal wall 3323 may include, for example, a serrated surface. In some cases, the longitudinal wall 3323 may include, for example, a flat surface. Similar to the above, the wall 3323 may be configured to restrict or impede, for example, lateral flow of tissue relative to the anvil 3320.

[0367] In addition to the above, the anvil 3320 may include a plurality of nail-forming recesses 3322 defined therein, which may be arranged in a longitudinal row that may be aligned with a nail cavity defined in a nail cartridge. For example, the forming recesses 3322 may be arranged in an innermost row 3328a, an outermost row 3328c, and a row 3328b between the innermost row 3328a and the outermost row 3328c. In at least one case, each nail-forming recess 3322 may include a first or distal forming cup 3322a and a second or proximal forming cup 3322b. The first forming cup 3322a may be configured to receive and deform a first leg of a nail, and the second forming cup 3322b may be configured to receive and deform a second leg of a nail. The first forming cup 3322a and the second forming cup 3322b may be separated by a plane 3322c. The anvil 3320 may also include a tissue engagement protrusion 3324. A protrusion 3324 may be positioned between a first forming cup 3322a and a second forming cup 3322b. The first protrusion 3324 may be positioned on a first side of plane 3322c, and the second protrusion 3324 may be positioned on a second side of plane 3322c. The protrusion 3324 extending from the anvil 3320 may mate with a protrusion extending from the cartridge to guide and support the nail being ejected from the cartridge. In at least one case, the anvil protrusion 3324 and the cartridge protrusion may interlock. In various cases, the cartridge protrusion may extend from the end of the nail cavity, while the anvil protrusion 3324 may be positioned, for example, in the middle of the cartridge protrusion on the middle of the nail cavity. The anvil protrusion 3324 and the cartridge protrusion may mate to extend the nail cavity and support and guide the nail as it is formed against the anvil 3320. The cartridge protrusion extending from the end of the nail cavity may support and guide the legs of the nail as the nail legs emerge from the nail cavity and contact the anvil 3320. When the stud leg deforms within the forming cups 3322a and 3322b, the stud leg can be supported and guided by the protrusion 3324 extending from the anvil. In various cases, the stud leg can be supported and guided by both the chamber protrusion and the anvil protrusion 3324 simultaneously. In some cases, the stud leg can be supported and guided by both the chamber protrusion and the anvil protrusion 3324, but this does not occur simultaneously.

[0368] In various configurations, the forming cups 3322a, 3322b may be configured to receive at least a portion of a protrusion extending from the staple cartridge therein. In at least one such configuration, each forming cup 3322a, 3322b may include a wide outer end and a narrow inner end, the wide outer end being configured to receive the protrusion extending from the staple cartridge. The wide outer end of the forming cups 3322a, 3322b may also be configured to initially receive a staple leg. The forming cups 3322a, 3322b may also include a curved surface configured to guide the staple leg toward the narrow inner end of the forming cups 3322a, 3322b. The staple leg may then exit the forming cups 3322a, 3322b from the narrow inner end, wherein the protrusion 3324 is provided to support and guide the staple leg. Each forming cup 3322a, 3322b may include an angled surface intermediate between the wide outer end and the narrow inner end. The angled surfaces can guide the studs within the forming cups 3322a and 3322b, restrict lateral movement of the studs, and improve alignment between the studs and the narrow inner ends.

[0369] In addition to the above, the protrusion 3324 may be configured to engage tissue and hold it in place during suturing and / or transverse cutting. In some cases, each protrusion 3324 may include a platform with a flat surface extending from the tissue engagement surface 3321. Figure 89 An alternative embodiment including an anvil 5220 is shown, the anvil including a shaped recess 3322 defined therein and tissue-engaging protrusions 5224 extending therefrom. Similar to protrusions 3224, each protrusion 5224 may include a platform portion 5224a and a flat surface 5224b configured to engage tissue. Additionally, each protrusion 5224 may include a transition surface 5224c intermediate between the platform portion 5224a and the flat surface 5224c. In various cases, the transition surface 5224c may include, for example, a radius. In some cases, the transition surface 5224c may include, for example, a ramp.

[0370] Figure 87 and Figure 88An anvil 5120 is shown. Anvil 5120 may include a distal end 5123, a proximal end 5126, and a tissue engagement surface. The tissue engagement surface may include steps. For example, the tissue engagement surface may include, for example, a first step 5121' and a second step 5121'. The second step 5121' may be higher than and extend from the first step 5121'. Anvil 5120 may also include a pivot 3327 about which anvil 5120 is rotatable between an open and closed position. Anvil 5120 may also include a longitudinal slot 5125 configured to receive a portion of a firing and / or cutting member therein. Anvil 5120 may also include a side surface 5123 that may or may not include longitudinal projections or walls extending therefrom. In various embodiments, the higher second step 5121” may be adjacent to the longitudinal slot 5125, while the first step 5121’ may be adjacent to the side 5123. In various embodiments, the second step 5121” may exert a greater compressive force on the tissue compared to the first step 5121’. In various alternative embodiments, the higher second step 5121” may be adjacent to the side 5123, while the first step 5121’ may be adjacent to the longitudinal slot 5125. Although the anvil 5120 includes two steps, the anvil 5120 may include more than two steps. In any case, the anvil 5120 may include a ramp surface 5128 extending between the first step 5121’ and the second step 5121” to facilitate the positioning of the anvil 5120 relative to the tissue.

[0371] In addition to the foregoing, the anvil 5120 may include a plurality of staple forming recesses 5122 arranged in a longitudinal row and defined therein, the longitudinal row being alignable with staple cavities defined in a staple cartridge. In various cases, the outermost row of forming recesses 5122 may be defined in a first step 5121'. The innermost row of forming recesses 5122 and the middle row of forming recesses 5122 may be defined in, for example, a second step 5121'. Other embodiments are contemplated in which the middle row of forming recesses 5122 are defined in the first step 5121'. In any case, the anvil 5120 may include tissue engagement protrusions 5124 extending therefrom. In various cases, each protrusion 5124 may include, for example, an H-shaped configuration. The protrusions 5124 may extend, for example, between adjacent forming recesses 5122. The protrusions 5124 may, for example, be in a... The protrusions 5124 extend between adjacent forming cups within the forming recesses 5122. In various cases, the protrusions 5124 may surround the ends of the forming cups to support and guide the studs formed by the forming cups. The protrusions 5124 may extend along, for example, the sides of the forming recesses 5122. The protrusions 5124 may extend along, for example, the sides of the first forming recesses 5122 and the second forming recesses 5122. The sides of the forming recesses 5122 may, for example, be parallel. In various cases, the protrusions 5124 may guide the studs within the forming cups and limit lateral movement of the studs. Figure 88Protrusions 5124 are shown on each side of the shaped recess 5122. Figure 88 Also shown are protrusions 5124 located on each side of the forming cup in the forming recess 5122. In various other embodiments, the protrusions may be positioned adjacent to only some of the forming recesses in the forming recess 5122 of the anvil 5120 and / or only some of the forming cups in the forming recesses 5122.

[0372] In various cases, the protrusions extending from the anvil may have the same height. In other cases, the protrusions extending from the anvil may have different heights. Now turn to Figure 69 The anvil 3520 may include a tissue engagement surface 3321 and a longitudinal slot 3325 defined therein, configured to receive a portion of a firing and / or cutting member. The anvil 3520 may also include sidewalls that may include longitudinal protrusions or walls 3323 extending therefrom. Similar to the above description, the anvil 3520 may include shaped recesses arranged in the innermost row 3328a, the outermost row 3328c, and the row 3328b intermediate between the innermost and outermost rows 3328a and 3328c. In various cases, the anvil 3520 may include, for example, a first longitudinal row protrusion 3551a adjacent to the innermost row 3328a, a second longitudinal row protrusion 3551b adjacent to the intermediate row 3328b, and a third longitudinal row protrusion 3551c adjacent to the outermost row 3228c. A first protrusion 3551a may extend from the tissue engagement surface 3221 by a first distance, and a second protrusion 3551b may extend from the tissue engagement surface 3221 by a second distance different from the first distance. A third protrusion 3551c may extend from the tissue engagement surface 3221 by a third distance different from the first distance and / or the second distance. In various cases, the third protrusion 3551c may be higher than the second protrusion 3551b, and the second protrusion 3551b may be higher than the first protrusion 3551a. In various alternative embodiments, protrusion 3551a may be positioned adjacent to, for example, the middle row 3328b and / or the outermost row 3328c, protrusion 3551b may be positioned adjacent to, for example, the innermost row 3328a and / or the outermost row 3328c, and / or protrusion 3551c may be positioned adjacent to, for example, the innermost row 3328a and / or the middle row 3328b.

[0373] Anvil 3420 Figure 68As shown. Anvil 3420 may include a distal end 3423, a proximal end, and a tissue engagement surface 3321. Anvil 3420 may also include a pivot 3327 about which anvil 3420 is rotatable between an open and closed position. Anvil 3420 may also include a longitudinal slot 3325 configured to receive a portion therein of a firing and / or cutting member. Anvil 3420 may also include longitudinal projections or sidewalls of wall 3323 extending therefrom. Anvil 3420 may include a plurality of staple-forming recesses 3322 arranged in a longitudinal row that are aligned with staple cavities defined in a staple cartridge. In various cases, in addition to the above, anvil 3420 may include projections extending therefrom. For example, anvil 3420 may include pyramidal projections 3051 and / or dome-shaped projections 3151 extending therefrom. The protrusions 3051 and / or 3151 can improve the clamping force that can be applied to the tissue.

[0374] In various cases, the anvil and the protrusion extending from the anvil may be made of a single piece of material. In at least one case, the protrusion may be integrally formed with the anvil. The anvil and the protrusion may be made of a metallic material such as, for example, stainless steel, and may be formed during, for example, machining and / or embossing processes. In some cases, the protrusion may be fitted to the anvil. In at least one case, the protrusion may be adhered to, for example, a housing. The anvil and the protrusion may be made of the same material or different materials. In at least one case, the anvil may be made of a metallic material and the protrusion may be made of an elastic material such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or savantine. In various cases, the protrusion may be made of a flexible material and may not harm the tissue compressed by the protrusion. Protrusion 3051 and / or protrusion 3151 may be made, for example, of an elastomeric material such as, for example, rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or savantine. In at least one case, the anvil may be formed during machining and / or embossing processes, and the protrusion may be formed on the anvil during a molding process using a material more flexible than the material constituting the anvil. In various cases, protrusions 3051 and / or 3151 may, for example, comprise a textured anvil surface. In some cases, protrusions 3051 and / or 3151 may be made of a material having a higher coefficient of friction than the anvil. Such embodiments can improve the gripping force between the anvil and the tissue.

[0375] In addition to the above, the anvil may include a uniform array of protrusions extending therefrom. In other cases, the array may be non-uniform. See again Figure 68The protrusion 3051 may extend from the anvil surface 3321 on a first side of the longitudinal slot 3325, and the protrusion 3151 may extend from the anvil surface 3321 on a second side of the longitudinal slot 3325. In various cases, the protrusion may be positioned distally relative to, for example, the forming recess 3322. In some cases, the protrusion may be distributed between the forming recesses 3322. The protrusion may extend from, for example, a surface 3429a defined between the innermost forming recess 3322 and the slot 3325, a surface 3429b defined between the innermost forming recess 3322 and the intermediate forming recess 3322, a surface 3429c defined between the intermediate forming recess 3322 and the outermost forming recess 3322, and / or a surface 3429d defined between the outermost forming recess 3322 and the sidewall 3323.

[0376] Figure 98 An anvil 5920 is shown. Anvil 5920 may include a distal end 5923, a proximal end 5926, and a tissue engagement surface 5921. Anvil 5920 may also include a tissue engagement member extending from surface 5921 configured to prevent or restrict tissue flow relative to anvil 5920. In at least one embodiment, anvil 5920 may include, for example, a protrusion 5924' and a protrusion 5924'". The protrusion 5924' may be higher than the protrusion 5924'. This height difference is indicated by dimension 5925. Figure 98 As shown, protrusion 5924” may be positioned distally relative to protrusion 5924'. In various cases, protrusions 5924” and 5924' may be part of a longitudinal row of protrusions. In some cases, protrusions 5924” and 5924' may be part of different longitudinal row of protrusions. In some cases, although not shown, protrusion 5924' may be positioned distally relative to protrusion 5924”.

[0377] In various cases, the anvils disclosed herein may include auxiliary materials. The auxiliary materials may comprise, for example, at least one layer of material positioned on the tissue engagement surface of the anvil and implanted into the patient by staples deployed from the staple cartridge. In various cases, this at least one layer of material may include, for example, support material and / or tissue thickness compensation. This at least one layer of material may be composed of, for example, Gore SeamGuard material, Synovis Peri-Strips material, and / or polyurethane. Several references disclosing such layers are incorporated herein by reference. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 763,095 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0161374), filed February 28, 2013, entitled “LAYERARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES,” is incorporated herein by reference. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,619 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318842), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING INCORPORATING A HEMOSTATIC AGENT”; U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,623 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318843), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN OXYGEN GENERATING AGENT”; and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,623 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318843), filed on June 25, 2012, entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-MICROBIAL”. The entire disclosures of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,627 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0312860) entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT”, filed June 25, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 531,630 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0318844) entitled “TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORPORATING AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT”, are incorporated herein by reference. The layer may be composed of bioabsorbable and / or non-bioabsorbable materials. In some cases, the material layer may be attached to the anvil.In at least one instance, at least one adhesive can be used to releasably adhere the layer to the anvil. In some instances, the material layer can be releasably attached to the anvil using, for example, one or more sutures or strips. In various instances, the layer may include protrusions extending therefrom, which may extend into a forming recess defined in the anvil. The protrusions may be arranged in an array or pattern aligned with an array or pattern of forming recesses in the anvil. In at least one instance, the protrusions may fit tightly within the forming recesses. The protrusions may be configured to restrict lateral and / or longitudinal movement of the layer relative to the anvil.

[0378] In some cases, the layer may comprise a sheet of solid material. In some cases, the layer may comprise a hole defined therein. In at least one such case, the layer may be used with, for example, an anvil 3320, and may comprise a hole, slit, and / or slot defined therein, for example, aligned with a protrusion extending from the tissue engagement surface 3321 of the anvil 3320. In some cases, the hole may comprise a through-hole or window extending fully through the layer. For example, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be cut into the layer using, for example, a blade-type cutting member. In some cases, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be formed, for example, during the molding of the layer. In some cases, the hole, slit, and / or slot may be formed in the layer using, for example, a laser cutting process. In some cases, the hole may comprise a recess defined in the layer that does not fully extend through the layer. In various cases, the protrusion may be tightly received within the hole, such that relative movement between the anvil 3320 and the layer is prevented or at least limited. In at least one such case, an interference fit may be present between the protrusion and the sidewall of the hole.

[0379] In addition to the above, the auxiliary layer may be composed of, for example, woven and / or nonwoven layers. The layer may be composed of, for example, a membrane. In various cases, the layer may include, for example, textured surfaces, protrusions, and / or projections extending therefrom that layer, which may be configured to prevent or at least restrict tissue flow relative to the anvil. The layer may include a first set of regions and a second set of regions, the first set of regions being engaged and / or captured within the staples ejected from the staple cartridge, and the second set of regions not being engaged or captured within the staples. In various cases, the second set of regions may be modified. In at least one case, the layer may be composed of a membrane, and the second set of regions of the membrane may be modified to include, for example, holes, slits, and / or slots. In at least one case, the periphery of such a layer may include slits defined therein that may soften the edges of the layer. In some cases, a slit pattern may be formed in the layer. In at least one such case, the slit pattern may include, for example, slits extending at a 45-degree angle relative to each other. In some cases, the depth, width, and / or spacing of the slits may be arbitrary. The aforementioned slits may make the membrane layer more flexible, stretchable, and / or compliant. The aforementioned cuts can be made onto, for example, woven or nonwoven materials. These cuts can be made using any suitable process, such as, for example, a mechanical blade system and / or a laser cutting system. In various cases, the first set of areas of the layer may not be modified as discussed above.

[0380] As discussed above, layers composed of solid material sheets can be modified to make them more flexible, stretchable, and / or compliant. Layers can be assembled from several material sheets bonded together. In at least one case, holes, slits, and / or slots may be present between the bonded material sheets. In some cases, strips of highly inelastic absorbable polymers can be welded to thinner, more flexible membranes to provide stretch in certain desired directions and restrict stretch in other directions. Such strips can also be used to reinforce high-stress portions of the membrane while allowing other portions of the membrane to remain soft and compliant. One way to achieve this effect would be to fabricate several thin strips composed of a stiffer polymer such as, for example, Vicryl. These strips can be, for example, about 0.015" to 0.030" wide and extend, for example, the entire length of a stud-forming recessed line. Six strips can be arranged to correspond to the lateral width of the stud lines of six longitudinal stud rows. Thin, continuous film layers, for example, about 0.003" to 0.005" wide, can then be welded to these six strips and made of a soft and elastic polymer such as, for example, Monocryl or 36 / 64PGA / PCL. In some cases, compression molding can be used. The result is that the highly reinforced nails with soft sides are easily stretched laterally rather than longitudinally. Strips extending from the film can even produce traction-retaining features that minimize tissue flow on the film in the desired direction. In some cases, the layers made of woven and / or nonwoven materials can be modified to cure certain areas of the layer, such as, for example, a first set of areas. Flat extruded fibers can be woven into strips, and then, for example, the first set of areas can be fused together to cure them using felting and / or another heat-based technique. In some cases, the entire layer can be fused together.

[0381] This document discloses various embodiments including staples removably stored in a staple cartridge, the staples being arranged end-to-end in one or more longitudinal rows. Similarly, this document discloses various embodiments including an anvil comprising staple forming recesses arranged in a corresponding end-to-end configuration. Other staple and staple forming recess arrangements are contemplated, and these arrangements may be adapted to the embodiments disclosed herein. Such arrangements may or may not include end-to-end arrangements. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 8,186,560, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES FORDEPLOYING SURGICAL STAPLES WITH TISSUE COMPRESSION FEATURES”, published May 29, 2012, is incorporated herein by reference. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent No. 8,365,976, entitled “SURGICALSTAPLES HAVING DISSOLVABLE, BIOABSORBABLE OR BIOFRAGMENTABLE PORTIONS AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME”, published on February 5, 2013, is incorporated herein by reference.

[0382] Figures 19 to 22A reusable or no-longer-use motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument 1010 is illustrated. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument 1010 includes a housing 1012 comprising a handle 1014 configured to be grasped, manipulated, and actuated by a clinician. The housing 1012 is configured for operatively attaching to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 having a surgical end effector 1300 operatively coupled thereto, configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or procedures. Continuing to refer to this specific embodiment, it should be understood that various unique and novel configurations of the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can also be effectively used with robotically controlled surgical systems. Therefore, the term "housing" may also encompass a housing or similar portion that houses or operatively supports at least one drive system of a robotic system, wherein the at least one drive system is configured to generate and apply at least one controlled motion that can be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their corresponding equivalents. The term "frame" may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument. The term "frame" can also refer to a portion of a robot-controlled surgical instrument and / or a portion of a robotic system that can be used to operatively control a surgical instrument. For example, the interchangeable axis assemblies disclosed herein can be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 118,241 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2012 / 0298719), entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS". The entire contents of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 118,241 (now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2012 / 0298719), entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", are incorporated herein by reference.

[0383] Figures 19 to 21The housing 1012 shown is illustrated in connection with an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 including an end effector 1300, which includes a surgical cutting and fastening device configured to operatively support a surgical cartridge 1304 therein. The housing 1012 can be configured for connection with interchangeable shaft assemblies including end effectors adapted to support cartridges of different sizes and types, having different shaft lengths, dimensions, and types, etc. Furthermore, the housing 1012 can also be effectively used with a variety of other interchangeable shaft assemblies, including those configured to apply other forms of motion and energy (such as, for example, radio frequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy, and / or motion) to end effector arrangements suitable for use with a variety of surgical applications and procedures. Additionally, the end effector, shaft assembly, handle, surgical instrument, and / or surgical instrument system can utilize any suitable one or more fasteners to fasten tissue. For example, a fastener magazine including a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein can be removably inserted into and / or attached to the end effector of the shaft assembly.

[0384] Figure 19 A surgical instrument 1010 is shown having an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operatively connected thereto. Figure 20 and Figure 21 The attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012 or the handle 1014 is shown. For example... Figure 21 As can be seen, the handle 1014 may include a pair of interconnectable handle housing segments 1016 and 1018, which are interconnected by screws, snap-fit ​​features, adhesives, etc. In the illustrated arrangement, the handle housing segments 1016 and 1018 cooperate to form a pistol grip 1019 that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As will be discussed in further detail below, the handle 1014 operatively supports a plurality of drive systems configured to generate various controlled movements and apply such controlled movements to corresponding portions of interchangeable shaft assemblies operatively attached thereto.

[0385] See now Figure 21 The handle 1014 may also include a frame 1020 operably supporting multiple drive systems. For example, the frame 1020 may operably support a “first” or closing drive system, typically designated 1030, which can be used to apply closing and opening movements to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably attached or coupled thereto. In at least one form, the closing drive system 1030 may include an actuator in the form of a closing trigger 1032 pivotally supported by the frame 1020. More specifically, as Figure 21As shown, the closure trigger 1032 is pivotally coupled to the housing 1014 via pin 1033. This arrangement allows the closure trigger 1032 to be manipulated by a clinician, such that when the clinician grips the pistol grip 1019 of the handle 1014, the closure trigger 1032 can be easily pivoted from an initial or "unacted" position to an "acted" position, and more specifically to a fully compressed or fully actuated position. The closure trigger 1032 can be biased to the unacted position by a spring or other biasing structure (not shown). In various forms, the closure actuation system 1030 also includes a closure linkage assembly 1034 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032. Similarly, as... Figure 21 As can be seen, the closing link assembly 1034 may include a first closing link 1036 and a second closing link 1038, which are pivotally connected to the closing trigger 1032 via a pin 1035. The second closing link 1038 may also be referred to herein as an "attachment member" and includes a lateral attachment pin 1037.

[0386] See also Figure 21 It can be observed that the first closing link 1036 may have a locking wall or end 1039 thereon, which is configured to engage with a closing release assembly 1060 pivotally coupled to the frame 1020. In at least one form, the closing release assembly 1060 may include a release button assembly 1062 having a locking pawl 1064 formed thereon projecting distally. The release button assembly 1062 may be pivoted counterclockwise by a release spring (not shown). When a clinician presses the closing trigger 1032 from its unacted position toward the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the first closing link 1036 pivots upward to such that the locking pawl 1064 falls to engage with the locking wall 1039 on the first closing link 1036 to prevent the closing trigger 1032 from returning to the unacted position. Thus, the closing release assembly 1060 helps to lock the closing trigger 1032 in the fully actuated position. When a clinician wishes to unlock the closure trigger 1032 to allow it to be biased to the unacted position, the clinician simply pivots the closure release button assembly 1062, causing the locking pawl 1064 to move and disengage from the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036. Once the locking pawl 1064 has been disengaged from the first closure link 1036, the closure trigger 1032 can pivot back to the unacted position. Other closure trigger arrangements may also be used for locking and releasing.

[0387] Arm 1061 may extend from closed release button 1062. A magnetic element 1063, such as a permanent magnet, may be mounted to arm 1061. When closed release button 1062 is rotated from its first position to its second position, magnetic element 1063 may move toward circuit board 1100. Circuit board 1100 may include at least one sensor configured to detect movement of magnetic element 1063. In at least one embodiment, a Hall effect sensor (not shown) may be mounted to the bottom surface of circuit board 1100, for example. The Hall effect sensor may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field around the Hall effect sensor caused by movement of magnetic element 1063. The Hall effect sensor may signal to, for example, a microcontroller that may determine whether closed release button 1062 is in its first position, the microcontroller being associated with the unacted position (i.e., its second position) of the open configuration of closed trigger 1032 and end effector, the actuated position of the closed configuration of closed trigger 1032 and end effector, and / or any position between the first and second positions.

[0388] In at least one embodiment, the handle 1014 and frame 1020 are operatively capable of supporting another drive system, referred to herein as a firing drive system 1080, configured to apply firing motion to a corresponding portion of an interchangeable shaft assembly attached thereto. The firing drive system 1080 may also be referred to herein as a “second drive system.” The firing drive system 1080 may employ an electric motor 1082 located in the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014. In various embodiments, the motor 1082 may be, for example, a DC brushed drive motor having a maximum speed of approximately 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, cordless motor, synchronous motor, stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 1082 may be powered by a power supply 1090, which may include a removable power supply unit 1092. Figure 21 As can be seen, power supply 1092 may include a proximal housing portion 1094 configured for attachment to a distal housing portion 1096. The proximal housing portion 1094 and the distal housing portion 1096 are configured to operably support a plurality of batteries 1098 therein. Each battery 1098 may each include, for example, a lithium-ion (“LI”) battery or other suitable battery. The distal housing portion 1096 is configured for removable operability attachment to a circuit board assembly 1100 also operably coupled to a motor 1082. A plurality of batteries 1098 connected in series may be used as a power source for the surgical instrument 1010. Furthermore, the power supply 1090 may be replaceable and / or rechargeable.

[0389] As outlined above relative to other various forms, the electric motor 1082 may include a rotatable shaft (not shown) operably interacting with a gear reducer assembly 1084, which is mounted on a longitudinally movable drive member 1120 with drive teeth 1122 of a set or rack. In use, the voltage polarity supplied by the power source 1090 can operate the electric motor 1082 in a clockwise direction, wherein the voltage polarity applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed to operate the electric motor 1082 in a counterclockwise direction. When the electric motor 1082 rotates in one direction, the drive member 1120 will be axially driven in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 1082 is driven in the opposite direction of rotation, the drive member 1120 will be axially driven in the proximal direction "PD". The handle 1014 may include a switch that can be configured to reverse the polarity of the electric motor 1082 applied by the power source 1090. As with other forms described herein, the handle 1014 may also include a sensor configured to detect the position of the drive member 1120 and / or the direction of movement of the drive member 1120.

[0390] Actuation of the motor 1082 can be controlled by a trigger 1130 pivotally supported on a handle 1014. The trigger 1130 is pivotable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The trigger 1130 can be biased into the unactuated position by a spring 1132 or other biasing structure such that when the clinician releases the trigger 1130, it can be pivoted by the spring 1132 or the biasing structure to or otherwise return to the unactuated position. In at least one embodiment, the trigger 1130 can be positioned “outside” the closed trigger 132, as discussed above. In at least one embodiment, a trigger safety button 1134 can be pivotally mounted to the closed trigger 1032 via a pin 1035. The safety button 1134 can be positioned between the trigger 1130 and the closed trigger 1032 and has a pivoting arm 1136 projecting from it. See also Figure 21 When the closed trigger 1032 is in the unacted position, the safety button 1134 is housed in the handle 1014, in which case the clinician may not be able to easily access the button or move it between a safe position that prevents actuation of the trigger 1130 and a firing position in which the trigger 1130 can be fired. When the clinician presses the closed trigger 1032, the safety button 1134 and the trigger 1130 pivot downwards, whereby they can then be manipulated by the clinician.

[0391] As described above, in at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 has teeth 1122 of a rack formed thereon for engagement with a corresponding drive gear 1086 of the gear reducer assembly 1084. At least one form also includes a manually actuated "rescue" assembly 1140 configured to allow a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 in the event that the motor 1082 is disabled. The rescue assembly 1140 may include a lever or rescue handle assembly 1142 configured to be manually pivotable to engage with teeth 1124 also disposed in the drive member 1120. Thus, the clinician can manually retract the drive member 1120 by using the rescue handle assembly 1142 to engage the drive member 1120 in the proximal direction "PD". U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US2010 / 0089970 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045) discloses a rescue structure and other components, arrangements, and systems that may also be used with the various instruments disclosed herein. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 249,117 (now U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045), entitled “POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM,” is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0392] Now go to Figure 20 and Figure 22 The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a surgical end effector 1300, which includes an elongated channel 1302 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 1304 therein. The end effector 1300 may also include an anvil 1306 pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 1302. The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include an articulation joint 1270 and an articulation lock configured to releasably hold the end effector 1300 in a desired position relative to an axis SA-SA. Details regarding the construction and operation of the end effector 1300, the articulation joint 1270, and the articulation lock are set forth in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, filed March 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK”. The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, filed March 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ANARTICULATION LOCK,” is hereby incorporated by reference. Figure 22 As can be seen, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include a proximal housing or nozzle 1201 formed by nozzle portions 1202 and 1203. The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include a closed tube 1260 for use in closing and / or opening an anvil 1306 of the end effector 1300. The shaft assembly 1200 may include a spine 1210 capable of 1) slidably supporting a firing member therein, and 2) slidably supporting a closed tube 1260 extending around the spine 210. The spine 210 may also be configured to slidably support a proximal articulation actuator. The articulation actuator has a distal end configured to operably engage an articulation lock. The articulation lock intersects with an articulation frame adapted to operably engage a drive pin on the end effector frame. Further details regarding the operation of the articulation lock and the articulation frame can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, as noted above. In various configurations, the spine 1210 may include a proximal end 1211 rotatably supported within a chassis 1240. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1211 of the spine 1210 has threads 1214 formed thereon for threaded attachment to a spine bearing 1216, which is configured to be supported within the chassis 1240. See also Figure 22 This arrangement facilitates the rotatable attachment of the spine 1210 to the chassis 1240, allowing the spine 1210 to be selectively rotated relative to the chassis 1240 about the axis SA.

[0393] See also Figure 22 The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a closed shuttle 1250 slidably supported within a chassis 1240 such that it is axially movable relative to the chassis. The closed shuttle 1250 includes a pair of proximal-projecting hooks 1252 configured for attachment to an attachment pin 1037. Figure 20 and Figure 21 The attachment pin is attached to the second closing link 1038, as will be discussed in further detail below. The proximal end 1261 of the closing tube 1260 is coupled to the closing shuttle 1250 for rotation relative to it. For example, a U-shaped connector 1263 is inserted into an annular slot 1262 in the proximal end 1261 of the closing tube 1260 and held within a vertical slot 1253 in the closing shuttle 1250. This arrangement serves to attach the closing tube 1260 to the closing shuttle 1250 for axial travel therewith, while allowing the closing tube 1260 to rotate relative to the closing shuttle 1250 about the axis SA. A closing spring 1268 is journaled to the closing tube 1260 and used to bias the closing tube 1260 in the proximal direction “PD,” which can be used to pivot the closing trigger to the unacted position when the shaft assembly is operably coupled to the shank 1014.

[0394] In at least one form, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulated joint 1270. However, other interchangeable shaft assemblies may not be able to perform articulation. For example, it may be possible to... Figure 22 As seen herein, for example, the articular motion joint 1270 includes a dual-pivot closure sleeve assembly 1271. According to various forms, the dual-pivot closure sleeve assembly 1271 includes an end effector closure sleeve assembly 1272 having an upper handle 1273 and a lower handle 1274 projecting distally. The end effector closure sleeve assembly 1272 includes a horseshoe bore 1275 and a tab 1276 for engaging an opening tab on an anvil 1306 in various manners as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, filed March 14, 2013, entitled “ARTICULATION LOCK SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK,” which is incorporated herein by reference. As described in further detail herein, when the anvil 1306 is open, the horseshoe bore 1275 and the tab 1276 engage the tab on the anvil. The upper double-pivot link 1277 includes an upwardly projecting distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that respectively engage an upper distal pin hole in an upper proximal ... Figure 22 .

[0395] In use, the closure tube 1260 is translated distally (direction “DD”) to close the anvil 1306, for example, in response to the actuation of the closure trigger 1032. The anvil 1306 is closed by translating the closure tube 1260 distally, and thus the shaft closure sleeve assembly 1272 causes it to impact the proximal surface of the anvil 1360 in the manner described in the aforementioned U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086. Also as detailed in that reference, the anvil 1306 is opened by translating the closure tube 1260 and the shaft closure sleeve assembly 1272 proximally, thereby causing the insert 1276 and the horseshoe bore 1275 to contact and push the anvil insert to lift the anvil 1306. In the anvil open position, the shaft closure tube 1260 is moved to its proximal position.

[0396] As described above, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 also includes a firing member supported for travel within the shaft spine 1210. This firing member includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 configured for attachment to a distal cutting section or shank. The intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 may include, in its distal end, a longitudinal slot configured to receive a tab located on the proximal end of the distal shank. The dimensions and configuration of the longitudinal slot and the proximal end may be set to allow relative movement therebetween and may include a sliding joint. This sliding joint allows the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the firing driver to be moved to articulate the end effector 1300 without moving or at least substantially moving the shank. Once the end effector 1300 has been properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 may be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot contacts the tab to advance the shank and fire the cartridge positioned within the channel 1302. Further description of the operation of the firing mechanism can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086.

[0397] As in Figure 22As can be seen, the shaft assembly 1200 also includes a switch drum 1500 rotatably received on the closing tube 1260. The switch drum 1500 includes a hollow shaft section 1502 having a shaft protrusion formed thereon for receiving an outwardly projecting actuating pin. In various cases, the actuating pin extends through a longitudinal slot provided in a locking sleeve to facilitate axial movement of the locking sleeve when it engages with a joint motion actuator. A rotary torsion spring 1420 is configured to engage the protrusion on the switch drum 1500 and a portion of the nozzle housing 1203 to apply a biasing force to the switch drum 1500. The switch drum 1500 may also include a peripheral mounting that can be configured to receive a peripheral mount extending from the nozzle halves 1202, 1203 and allow relative rotation rather than relative translation between the switch drum 1500 and the proximal nozzle 1201, defined therein by at least a portion of the peripheral opening 1506. The mounting also extends through an opening 1266 in the closed tube 1260 to be seated in a recess in the spindle 1210. However, rotation of the nozzle 1201 to the point where the mounting reaches its end in the corresponding slot 1506 in the switch drum 1500 will cause the switch drum 1500 to rotate about the axis SA. Rotation of the switch drum 1500 will ultimately cause the actuating pin and locking sleeve to rotate between their engaged and disengaged positions. Thus, generally, the nozzle 1201 can be used to operatively engage and disengage the articulated motion drive system from the firing drive system in various manners further detailed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086 and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,142, filed March 26, 2014, entitled “SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

[0398] Similarly, Figure 22As shown, shaft assembly 1200 may include slip ring assembly 1600 configured to, for example, conduct power to and / or from end effector 1300 and / or send signals to and / or receive signals from end effector 1300. Slip ring assembly 1600 may include a proximal connector flange 1604 mounted to a chassis flange 1242 extending from chassis 1240, and a distal connector flange positioned within a slot defined in shaft housing. Proximal connector flange 1604 may include a first face, and distal connector flange may include a second face positioned adjacent to and movable relative to the first face. Distal connector flange is rotatable about axis SA relative to proximal connector flange 1604. Proximal connector flange 1604 may include a plurality of concentric or at least substantially concentric conductors defined in its first face. A connector may be mounted proximal to the connector flange and may have a plurality of contacts, each corresponding to and electrically contacting one of the conductors. This arrangement allows relative rotation between the proximal connector flange 1604 and the distal connector flange while maintaining electrical contact between them. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include an electrical connector 1606 that can position conductors for signal communication with, for example, a shaft circuit board 1610 mounted to a shaft chassis 1240. In at least one case, a wire harness comprising multiple conductors may extend between the electrical connector 1606 and the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1606 may extend proximally through a connector opening 1243 defined in a chassis mounting flange 1242. See also Figure 22 The entire contents of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 800,067, filed March 13, 2013, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM,” are incorporated herein by reference. The entire contents of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 800,025, filed March 13, 2013, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUETHICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM,” are incorporated herein by reference. Further details concerning the slip ring assembly 1600 can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086.

[0399] As discussed above, shaft assembly 1200 may include a proximal portion that can be fixedly mounted to shank 1014 and a distal portion that can rotate about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portion can rotate about slip ring assembly 1600 relative to the proximal portion as discussed above. The distal connector flange of slip ring assembly 1600 may be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. In addition, in addition to the above, switch drum 1500 may also be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. When the rotatable distal shaft portion rotates, the distal connector flange and switch drum 1500 can rotate synchronously with each other. Furthermore, switch drum 1500 can rotate relative to the distal connector flange between a first position and a second position. When switch drum 1500 is in its first position, the articulation drive system can be operably disengaged from the firing drive system, and therefore operation of the firing drive system may prevent the end actuator 1300 of shaft assembly 1200 from articulating. When the switch drum 1500 is in its second position, the articulation drive system is operably engaged with the firing drive system, and thus operation of the firing drive system causes the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200 to articulate. As the switch drum 1500 moves between its first and second positions, the switch drum 1500 moves relative to the distal connector flange. In various cases, the shaft assembly 1200 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of the switch drum 1500.

[0400] See you again Figure 22 The chassis 1240 includes at least one, and preferably two, tapered attachment portions 1244 formed thereon, which are adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail slots 1702 formed within a distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. See also Figure 21 Each dovetail slot 1702 may be tapered, or in other words, slightly V-shaped, to seamlessly receive the attachment portion 1244 therein. For example, it may be... Figure 22 As further seen below, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate firing shaft 1222. As will be discussed in further detail below, when the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is coupled to the handle 1014, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is received within the firing shaft attachment base 1126 formed in the distal end 1125 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. See also Figure 21 .

[0401] Various shaft assembly implementations employ a latching system 1710 for removably coupling the shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012 and more specifically to the frame 1020. As in Figure 22As can be seen, for example in at least one form, the latching system 1710 includes a locking member or yoke 1712 movably coupled to the chassis 1240. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the yoke 1712 has a U-shaped form with two spaced-apart downwardly extending legs 1714. Each leg 1714 has a pivot lug 1715 formed thereon in a corresponding hole 1245 formed in the chassis 1240. This arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of the yoke 1712 to the chassis 1240. The yoke 1712 may include two proximal projecting lugs 1716 configured for releasable engagement with a corresponding locking stop or groove 1704 located in the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020. See also Figure 21 In various forms, the yoke 1712 is biased proximally by a spring or biasing member (not shown). Actuation of the yoke 1712 can be achieved by a latch button 1722 slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1720 mounted to the chassis 1240. The latch button 1722 can be biased proximally relative to the yoke 1712. As will be discussed in further detail below, the yoke 1712 can be moved to the unlocked position by biasing the latch button distally, which also causes the yoke 1712 to pivot to not remain engaged with the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020. When the yoke 1712 is "engaged" with the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020, the latch lug 1716 is fixedly positioned within a corresponding locking stop or groove 1704 in the distal attachment flange 1700.

[0402] When using interchangeable shaft assemblies, including those suitable for cutting and securing tissue as described herein, as well as other types of end actuators, it may be necessary to prevent the interchangeable shaft assembly from accidentally disengaging from the housing during actuation of the end actuator. For example, in use, a clinician may actuate the closure trigger 32 to grasp and manipulate target tissue into a desired position. Once the target tissue is positioned in the desired orientation within the end actuator 1300, the clinician may fully actuate the closure trigger 1032 to close the anvil 1306 and clamp the target tissue in the appropriate position for cutting and suturing. In such cases, the first drive system 1030 has been fully actuated. After the target tissue has been clamped in the end actuator 1300, it may be necessary to prevent the shaft assembly 1200 from accidentally disengaging from the housing 1012. A latching system 1710 is configured to prevent such accidental disengagement.

[0403] For example, most specifically in Figure 22As can be seen, the yoke 1712 includes at least one, and preferably two, locking hooks 1718 adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1256 formed on the closed shuttle 1250. When the closed shuttle 1250 is in the unacted position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is not actuated and the anvil 1306 is open), the yoke 1712 is pivotable in the distal direction to unlock the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 from the housing 1012. In this position, the locking hooks 1718 do not contact the locking lug portions 1256 on the closed shuttle 1250. However, when the closed shuttle 1250 is moved to the actuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is actuated and the anvil 1306 is in the closed position), the yoke 1712 is prevented from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if a clinician attempts to pivot the yoke 1712 to the unlocked position, or if the yoke 1712 is accidentally bumped or contacted in a manner that could otherwise cause it to pivot distally, the latch 1718 on the yoke 1712 will contact the lock lug 1256 on the closed shuttle 1250 and prevent the yoke 1712 from moving to the unlocked position.

[0404] The attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 will now be described. To begin the attachment process, the clinician can position the base 1240 of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 above or near the distal attachment flange 1700 of the frame 1020, such that the tapered attachment portion 1244 formed on the base 1240 is aligned with the dovetail slot 1702 in the frame 1020. The clinician can then move the shaft assembly 1200 along a mounting axis perpendicular to the axis SA to position the attachment portion 1244 in “operably engaged” with the corresponding dovetail receiving slot 1702. During this operation, the shaft attachment lug 1226 on the intermediate firing shaft 1222 will also be positioned in the base 1126 of the longitudinally movable drive member 1120, and a portion of the pin 1037 on the second closing link 1038 will be positioned in the corresponding hook 1252 in the closing yoke 1250. As used herein, in the context of a two-component device, the term “operably engaged” means that the two components are fully engaged with each other such that, once an actuating motion is applied to them, the components can perform their intended actions, functions and / or procedures.

[0405] At least five systems of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 are operatively connectable to at least five corresponding systems of the handle 1014. A first system may include a frame system that connects and / or aligns the frame or spine of the shaft assembly 1200 with the frame 1020 of the handle 1014. Another system may include a closure drive system 1030 operatively connectable to the closure trigger 1032 of the handle 1014 with the closure tube 1260 and anvil 1306 of the shaft assembly 1200. As summarized above, the closure tube attachment yoke 1250 of the shaft assembly 1200 may engage with a pin 1037 on a second closure link 1038. Another system may include a firing drive system 1080 operatively connecting the firing trigger 1130 of the handle 1014 to the intermediate firing shaft 1222 of the shaft assembly 1200. As summarized above, the shaft attachment lug 1226 is operatively connectable to the base 1126 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Another system may include an electrical system that can: signal to a controller in the handle 1014, such as a microcontroller, that the shaft assembly, such as shaft assembly 1200, is operatively engaged with the handle 1014; and / or conduct electrical and / or communication signals between the shaft assembly 1200 and the handle 1014. For example, the shaft assembly 1200 may include an electrical connector 1810 operatively mounted to a shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1810 is configured to mate with a corresponding electrical connector 1800 on the handle control board 1100. Further details regarding the circuitry and control systems can be found in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086 and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 226,142, the entire disclosure of each of which has been previously incorporated herein by reference. The fifth system may consist of a latching system for releasably locking the shaft assembly 1200 to the shank 1014.

[0406] Surgical staplers are used in the prior art to simultaneously make longitudinal incisions in tissue and apply rows of staples to opposite sides of the incision. Such instruments often include a pair of cooperating jaw members that can pass through a channel if the instrument is intended for endoscopic or laparoscopic applications. One jaw member receives a staple cartridge with at least two rows of staples spaced laterally apart. The other jaw member defines an anvil with a staple-forming recess aligned with the rows of staples in the cartridge. The instrument includes multiple reciprocating wedges that, when driven distally, pass through openings in the staple cartridge and engage a staple-supporting actuator to achieve staple firing toward the anvil.

[0407] By simultaneously cutting tissue to form rows of staples on each side of the incision, bleeding is reduced and surgical procedures are simplified. Endoscopic and laparoscopic surgeries are increasingly preferred over open surgery due to shorter postoperative recovery times and other advantages. Endoscopic suturing and cutting instruments use slender jaw members that tend to deflect upwards when clamped onto thick tissue. In thick tissue, this upward deflection of the free (distal) end of the jaw can result in a height difference in the staples due to a larger distal gap between the anvil and the cartridge than a proximal gap. To ensure more consistent proximal-to-distal staple formation, the anvil is typically arched or bent inwards toward the cartridge. This arching is more suitable for thick tissue and allows for tighter staple formation at the distal end when used on thin tissue. To overcome this tight distal closure, pins or lugs are added to the clamping surfaces of the cartridge's distal end. The closure from the anvil to the pin ensures minimal clearance at the distal end. However, surgeons are concerned that pins or lugs may cause tissue trauma.

[0408] To address these challenges, various arrangements have been developed. For example, one arrangement includes an "E-pillar" cutting head or firing lever configured to effectively space the anvil from the elongated channel supporting the nail cartridge. Such an E-pillar cutting head or firing lever arrangement is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,978,921 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN E-BEAM FIRING MECHANISM," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0409] For example, as in this article Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the tissue cutting head includes an E-pillar 50 that can translate within the end effector 16. As described above, the E-pillar 50 may include a vertical portion 52 of a narrow longitudinal anvil slot 58 extending through a tissue contact surface 60 in the anvil 20, a narrow vertical slot 62 in the staple cartridge 42, and a narrow longitudinal channel slot 64 in the elongated staple channel 40, which, when advanced distally, can pass through the tissue contact surface 60 in the anvil 20. See now. Figure 2 and Figure 3Anvil slot 58 may extend upward into anvil 20 and may include an end that opens into a laterally widened longitudinal channel 66, which is sized and configured to receive an upper pin 54 extending laterally from vertical portion 52. Similarly, channel slot 64 may extend downward into channel 40 and may include an end that opens into a laterally widened longitudinal channel 68, which is sized and configured to receive one or more lower pins 70 extending laterally from vertical portion 52. In various embodiments, as further described above, E-post 50 may also include one or more intermediate pins 72 that extend laterally from vertical portion 52 and are configured to slide along the top surface of the base 74 of the cartridge 42. In some embodiments, intermediate pins 72 may be configured to secure cartridge 42 or ensure that cartridge 42 remains located in channel 40. A longitudinal firing recess 75 formed in cartridge 42 above base 74 is sized to allow intermediate pins 72 to translate through cartridge 42.

[0410] Various elongated channel arrangements include an elongated or longitudinal slot extending between the starting position of the E-pillar cutting head in the proximal portion of the elongated channel and its ending position adjacent to the distal end of the elongated channel. The vertical portion of the E-pillar cutting head extends through the longitudinal slot, and the lower lead portion of the E-pillar extends along the bottom surface of the elongated channel. The lead portion helps to effectively space the anvils relative to the elongated channel and also serves as a convenient way for clinicians to determine the position of the cutting head within the elongated channel. By observing the position of the cutting head lead as the cutting head is advanced distally through the chamber, clinicians can accurately determine the position of the cutting head within the chamber. Such arrangements employ a longitudinal slot in the elongated channel to reduce channel stiffness and resistance to torsion and expansion while providing an effective means of anvil spacer spacing and monitoring cutting head position.

[0411] To avoid such expansion of the narrow channel, it may be necessary to eliminate the narrow channel to increase resistance to torsion and expansion when suturing thick tissue. However, such an arrangement makes it impossible for the surgeon to see how far the suture has been made by observing the position of the scalpel tip. Figure 32An elongated channel 6022, which may be similar to various elongated channels disclosed herein except for the following differences, is shown. The elongated channel 6022 includes, for example, elongated channels 22 and 302. The elongated channel 6022 may be molded and / or machined and / or otherwise formed from a suitable polymer material and includes a substantially solid bottom surface portion 6024. The elongated channel 6022 is configured to support a surgical staple cartridge (not shown) therein. The elongated channel 6022 may include an elongated internal slot 6026 defined by two inwardly extending flange portions 6028. The inwardly extending flange portions 6028 also define an internal channel 6030 between the flange portions 6028 and the solid bottom portion 6024. While the elongated internal slot 6026 extends the majority of the length of the elongated channel 6022, it does not extend through the bottom surface 6024 of the elongated channel 6022. The internal channel 6030 is sized to slidably accommodate one or more pins formed on or otherwise attached to the cutting head.

[0412] Figure 42 An E-pillar cutting head 6050, for example, that can be used in conjunction with the elongated channel 6022, is shown. However, as will become apparent, the elongated channel 6022 can also be used in conjunction with various different cutting head arrangements employing a single pin or multiple pins disposed on the bottom of the cutting head. See also Figure 42 The cutting head 6050 includes a vertical portion 6052 terminating at two laterally extending lower leads 6070. The vertical portion 6052 is configured to pass through an elongated slot 6026 such that the lower leads 6070 are received below the corresponding flange portion 6028.

[0413] See you again Figure 32The elongated channel 6022 may also include a proximal channel opening 6040 disposed in the proximal end of the bottom portion 6024 of the elongated channel 6022. The proximal channel opening 6040 allows a clinician to observe at least one of the pins 6070 or one or more other portions of the cutting head 6050 when the cutting head 6050 is in a start or unfired position. This "start position" may also correspond to the position of the cutting head 6050 when it is in a locked position, as will be discussed in further detail below. Similarly, a distal channel opening 6042 is provided in the distal end of the bottom portion 6024, which allows a clinician to observe at least one of the pins 6070 or one or more other portions of the cutting head 6050 when the cutting head 6050 is in its "fully fired" or "closed position". This arrangement provides clinicians with a method to determine whether the cutting head is in its starting or ending position, while also providing a relatively rigid, elongated channel compared to other channels with longitudinal slots extending longitudinally through the bottom of the elongated channel. The proximal channel opening 6040 and the distal channel opening 6042 can... Figure 32 The arrangement shown facilitates easy installation of the cutting head 6050 into the elongated channel 6022 (through the proximal channel opening 6040) and removal of the cutting head 6050 from the elongated channel 6022 (through the distal channel opening 6042). Therefore, the elongated channel 6022 has a closed bottom comprising openings 6040, 6042 corresponding respectively to the start and end of the cutting head firing stroke. This arrangement allows visibility of the start and end of firing and allows downward movement of the cutting head to a locked position, as will be discussed in further detail below.

[0414] The elongated channel 6022 can be effectively used with cutting head assemblies that are manually advanced or advanced by a motor-driven firing system. For example, the surgical instrument 10 described above includes a cutting head 50 that is manually advanced by an actuation trigger 32. In various arrangements, the cutting head 50 can be advanced from its starting position to its ending position by three actuations of the firing trigger 32. Thus, for example, a single actuation of the trigger 32 can move the cutting head distally in the elongated channel by one-third of the distance between the starting and ending positions (“first firing position”). A second actuation trigger can cause the cutting head 50 to travel two-thirds of the distance between the starting and ending positions (“second firing position”), and a third actuation trigger 32 can cause the cutting head 50 to be advanced from the second firing position to the ending position. Thus, when the cutting head 6050 can be seen through the distal channel opening 6042, the clinician will know that the cutting head 6050 has been fully fired. Such an elongated channel 6022 can also be used with electrically powered surgical instruments 1010 ( Figures 19 to 22 Used in combination.

[0415] Figures 33 to 35 Another elongated channel arrangement 6122 similar to the elongated channel 6022 is shown, except for the differences mentioned. Those portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6122 that are identical to those of the elongated channel arrangement 6022 will share the same component numbers. Specifically, as... Figure 33 As can be seen in the figures, a series of spaced-apart indicator openings 6144 are provided in the bottom portion 6124. The number, size, and spacing of the indicator openings 6144 may vary, but in at least one arrangement, the indicator openings 6144 have the same size and are evenly spaced in a row, allowing them to lead into the elongated internal channel 6030. As can be seen in those figures, the indicator openings 6144 are circular in shape. Similarly... Figure 33 As can be seen, a light source 6160 can be installed in the proximal end of the elongated channel 6122, so that the light source 6160 projects light into the internal channel 6030 (in Figure 33 and Figure 34 (Indicated by a dashed "L" in the image). The light source 6160 may include, for example, one or more light-emitting diodes ("LEDs") or other light source arrangements capable of receiving power through a conductor 6164, which is coupled to a handle of a surgical instrument or robotic system, to which an elongated channel 6122 is operatively attached. When the light source 6160 is powered, light is projected into the internal channel 6030. When the cutting head 6050 is in the initial position, the cutting head 6050 can block any light "L" from being visible through any of the indicator openings 6144. Therefore, when no light "L" is visible through any of the indicator openings 6144, the clinician will know that the cutting head 6050 is in the initial position. As the cutting head 6050 is advanced distally through the indicator openings 6144, light "L" will illuminate the cutting head 6050 and be visible at least through the unobstructed indicator opening 6144 immediately adjacent to the cutting head 6050, as... Figure 34 As shown. Therefore, this arrangement allows clinicians to monitor the progress of the cutting head 6050 as it moves distally through the elongated channel 6122 from its starting position to its ending position. This elongated channel arrangement is also stiffer and more rigid than those with elongated slots that extend fully through most of the bottom surface of the elongated channel. In one arrangement, the clinician can determine the position of the cutting head because no light will illuminate through the indicator opening where the cutting head is located. All other indicator openings will have light illuminating them. Therefore, in one arrangement, the “black” or unlit indicator opening indicates the position of the cutting head. In other embodiments, the light source may be omitted. The clinician can still monitor the position of the cutting head 6050 in the elongated channel 6122 by observing the position of the pin 6070 through the indicator opening 6144.

[0416] Figure 36Another elongated channel arrangement 6222 similar to the elongated channel 6122 is shown, except for the differences mentioned above. Those portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6222 that are identical to portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6122 will share the same element designations. As can be seen in the figure, a series of spaced-apart indicator openings 6144 are arranged to pass through the bottom surface 6224. In the arrangement shown, the indicator openings 6144 have the same size and shape but are arranged to pass through the bottom surface 6224 at different intervals. For example, the nearest-side indicator opening 6144P may be spaced from the nearest-side opening 6040 by a first spacing distance “FSD”, which allows at least one of, for example, the pin 6070 of the cutting head 6050 or other portions, to be observed through this first spacing distance when the cutting head 6050 is in the starting position. Similarly, the farthest-side indicator opening 6144D may be spaced from the adjacent indicator opening 6144 by a second spacing distance “SSD” different from the first spacing distance FSD. Figure 36 As seen, for example, SSD is greater than FSD. The furthest indicator opening 6144D corresponds to the position of the cutting head 6050 in its ending position. Thus, the elongated channel arrangement 6222 shows variable-pitch indicator openings, where the number of openings decreases as you move from the proximal to the distal side.

[0417] Figure 37 Another elongated channel arrangement 6322 similar to the elongated channel 6122 is shown, except for the differences mentioned above. Those portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6322 that are identical to portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6122 will share the same element numbers. As can be seen in the figure, the elongated channel arrangement 6322 includes a series of elongated discrete indicator openings 6144'. In the arrangement shown, the indicator openings 6144' have the same size and shape and are arranged at uniform intervals.

[0418] Figure 38Another elongated channel arrangement 6422 similar to the elongated channel 6222 is shown, except for the differences mentioned above. Those portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6422 that are identical to portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6222 will share the same element numbers. As can be seen in the figure, only two spaced-apart "discrete" indicator openings 6144" are configured to pass through the bottom surface 6424. In the arrangement shown, the indicator openings 6144" have the same size and shape but are configured to pass through the bottom surface 6424 at different intervals. For example, the nearest-side indicator opening 6144P” may be spaced apart from the nearest-side opening 6040 by a first spacing distance “FSD”, and the farthest-side indicator opening 6144D” may be spaced apart from the nearest-side indicator opening 6144” by a second spacing distance “SSD” different from the first spacing distance FSD. In at least one arrangement, for example, when the elongated channel 6422 is used with a cutting head assembly that is manually advanced by actuating a firing trigger, at least one pin or other portion of the cutting head assembly is visible through the near-side indicator opening 6144P” as the cutting head assembly is being advanced through the “first stroke” or first actuation of the firing trigger. Similarly, at least one pin or other portion of the cutting head assembly is visible through the farthest-side indicator opening 6144D” during the second stroke or second actuation of the firing trigger. Thus, the elongated channel 6422 includes an elongated slot-shaped indicator opening and a circular indicator opening that provides more closure / fewer opening as you move from near to far.

[0419] Figure 39 Another elongated channel arrangement 6522 similar to the elongated channel 6422 is shown, except for the differences mentioned. Those portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6522 that are identical to portions of the elongated channel arrangement 6422 will share the same element numbering. As can be seen in the figure, the elongated channel 6522 includes a combination of a nearest-side elongated indicator opening 6144P” and a combination of circularly spaced, evenly spaced indicator openings 6144, which allow a clinician to observe at least one pin or other portion of the cutting head assembly during the first stroke of the trigger or actuation procedure. Therefore, the elongated channel 6522 employs a combination of slotted slots and elongated slots. Any of the elongated channel arrangements described above may be combined with a light source 6160, which is incorporated herein by reference. Figure 33 The implementation scheme shown is described in detail, or any of the above elongated channel arrangements can be used without a light source.

[0420] Other cutting head monitoring arrangements may include, for example, one or more light source arrangements or light-emitting diode (“LED”) arrangements that project light along an opening in the channel or along a slot inside the channel. This will greatly enhance the user’s ability to locate the position of the cutting head during its stroke and determine whether the total stroke has been completed. In some arrangements, LEDs may include multi-color LEDs (or other color arrangements) that change from green to blue as the cutting head advances further along the channel to further differentiate the cutting head’s progress.

[0421] In various end effector arrangements, it may be desirable to employ a system to prevent the cutting head from advancing or firing unless an unused cartridge has been operatively installed in the elongated channel. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,988,649, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT,” and U.S. Patent No. 7,044,352, entitled “SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FORPREVENTION OF FIRIN,” disclose various locking systems, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In such locking arrangements, the cutting head, or “firing lever,” is typically spring-loaded into a locked position. The cutting head cannot be otherwise advanced by the firing drive system of the surgical instrument until an unused cartridge has been installed in the elongated channel.

[0422] See Figures 40 to 42 The figure shows a cutting head 6050 attached to a firing lever 6080. As shown, the firing lever 6080 is of a laminated construction. However, the firing lever 6080 can be of a solid construction. In either case, the firing lever 6080 is operatively engaged with a firing drive system of the surgical instrument described herein or otherwise known. Actuation of the firing drive system axially advances the firing lever 6080 and the cutting head 6050 through a surgical cartridge housed within an elongated channel 6122. The vertical portion 6052 of the cutting head 6050 includes a tissue cutting surface 6053 positioned between an upper portion 6054 and a central hook portion 6056. See also... Figure 42 The upper pin or upper insert 6058 extends laterally from each side of the upper portion 6054. The upper insert 6058 is configured to be slidably received within an upper channel in an anvil, which is operatively mounted to an elongated channel, as will be discussed further below.

[0423] Figure 41The diagram shows the position of the cutting head 6050 and the firing lever 6080 when no surgical staple cartridge is present within the elongated channel 6122. In this position, the firing lever 6080 and the cutting head 6050 are biased downwards in a "D" direction by a spring arm 6090 and supported by an axial spine (not shown) connected to the elongated channel 6122. As can be seen in the figure, the spring arm 6090 slidably engages with a spring tail 6082 formed in the distal end of the firing lever 6080. When the cutting head 6050 is in the position shown... Figure 41 In the locked position shown, the bottom portion of the spring tail 6082 is biased into the inclined surface 6123 formed on the elongated channel 6122. For example, it is possible to... Figure 41 As further observed, when the cutting head 6050 is in the locked position, if a clinician inadvertently attempts to advance or "fire" the cutting head 6050 distally through the elongated channel 6122, one or more lower pins 6070 may come into contact with the bottom of the elongated channel 6122. In other words, when the cutting head 6050 is in the locked position, pins 6070 are not aligned with the inner channel 6030 in the elongated channel 6122, and therefore the cutting head assembly 6050 cannot be axially advanced within it. The clinician will know that the cutting head is locked by observing the position of pins 6070 within the proximal opening 6040.

[0424] Figure 40 The positions of the cutting head 6050 and firing lever 6080 are shown when the unused surgical staple cartridge is operatively supported within the elongated channel 6122. Although Figure 40 The main body of the surgical cartridge is not shown, but the wedge-shaped slider assembly 6078 is shown. It should be understood that the wedge-shaped slider assembly 6078 will remain in the unfired or unused cartridge. Figure 40 In the position shown. When in this position, the wedge-shaped sliding assembly 6078 engages with the hook portion 6056 on the cutting head 6050 to move in the upward direction ( Figure 40 The cutting head 6050 is raised to a point (arrow "U") where, as the cutting head 6050 advances distally, its pins 6070 enter the inner channel 6030 within the elongated channel 6122. When using elongated channels with a closing button or substantially closing button (such as those described herein), one might anticipate a situation of size stacking, where interference can occur between the bottom of the channel and one or more blade pins when using an end effector to cut and suture extremely thin tissue. If, for example, the tissue is too thin, the tissue compression resistance may not be sufficient to push the anvil away from the elongated channel and close to the cutting head insert to load those two components. If this occurs, one or more blade pins may extend far enough below the bottom of the elongated channel that the cutting head cannot advance distally. Figure 40 and Figure 41The cutting head assembly 6050 and the elongated channel arrangement 6122 shown can prevent such a situation from occurring.

[0425] like Figure 40 and Figure 41 As can be seen, for example, the distal end of each pin 6070 may have a chamfer 6072 formed thereon. The chamfer 6072 is configured to engage the corresponding portion of the elongated channel 6122 when the cutting head 6050 is advanced distally to allow the pin 6070 to enter the internal channel 6030. Thus, the chamfer 6072 forms a small "introduction end" ramp that helps guide the pin 6070 into the channel 6030. Similarly, as... Figure 40 and Figure 41 As can be seen, a portion of the distal end 6131 of the elongated channel 6122 that defines the inner channel 6030 may have a chamfer 6133 or otherwise be angled as shown. In an alternative arrangement, pin 6070 (or a single pin) may be provided with a chamfer 6072, or the proximal end portion 6131 of the inner channel 6030 may be provided with a chamfer 6133, or both chamfer arrangements may be as shown. Figure 40 and Figure 41 Provided as shown in the diagram.

[0426] Figure 43 and Figure 44 An end effector 7016, which may be similar to, for example, end effector 16 or 300 or other end effectors disclosed herein, is shown. In this arrangement, a closure tube or cannula 7028 has a series of indicator openings 7144 through which a clinician can observe the firing lever 6080. The firing lever 6080 may have status markings 6084 thereon, which the clinician can observe through the indicator openings 7144 as the firing lever 6080 is advanced distally. Status markings 6084 may simply include painted markings or other features that will serve as reference marks. In one arrangement, status markings 6084 include one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or other light sources powered by a power source in a surgical instrument or surgical system to which the end effector 7016 is attached.

[0427] Figure 45Another end effector 7016 is shown, wherein the closed sleeve segment 7030 includes an indicator window 7032 enabling a clinician to determine whether the cutting head is in its locked position. In this arrangement, if the clinician can see the spring tail 6082 through the indicator window 7032, the cutting head is not in its locked position. If the clinician cannot see the spring tail 6082 through the indicator window 7032, the cutting head is in its locked position. In an alternative arrangement, the indicator window 7032 may be positioned such that if the spring tail 6082 is visible through the indicator window 7032, the cutting head is in its locked position, and if the spring tail 6082 is not visible through the indicator opening, the cutting head is not in its locked position. To assist the clinician in determining the position of the cutting head, the cutting head may be provided with a specific brightness or fluorescent color. These color arrangements may, for example, be radium-based. Furthermore, the color of the cutting head may vary along its length to allow the clinician to easily detect its position.

[0428] Figure 47 An anvil 7020 is shown comprising one or more indicator openings 7044, which provide observation into a channel 7022 into which an upper portion 6054 of a cutting head 6050 axially extends. Figure 47 In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator openings 7044 have a circular shape and are evenly spaced along the length of the anvil 7020. Figure 48 In the illustrated embodiment, the indicator openings 7044 are spaced closer together at the proximal end of the anvil 7020. The spacing between the indicator openings 7044 gradually increases with distal movement within the anvil 7020. However, the size, shape, and spacing of the indicator openings 7044 can vary. See also Figure 42 An indicator component 6059 may be disposed in the tip portion 6054 of the cutting head 6050. In one embodiment, the indicator component 6059 includes one or more light-emitting diodes or other light sources that can be powered from the surgical instrument via a conductor 6081 passing through the firing lever 6080. This arrangement allows a clinician to observe the position of the indicator component 6059 through an indicator opening 7044 in the anvil 7020 as the cutting head 6050 is advanced through the end effector. In other arrangements, an indicator component (light-emitting diode, lamp) may not be provided in the cutting head. However, the tip portion of the cutting head may be provided with a color or fluorescent marking to enhance its visibility through the indicator opening in the anvil. For example, the color may be radium-based. The cutting head may alternatively be provided with a laser-marked component to provide means for determining the position of the cutting head within the channel or anvil.

[0429] Figure 46The anvil 7020 shown employs an indicator system generally designated 7200. In this embodiment, the indicator system 7200 includes a flexible strip or wave spring 7202 journal-connected at least at its proximal end 7204 in a slot 7021 within the anvil 7020. The wave spring 7202 extends the length of the anvil 7020 and is at least co-extended with a portion of the anvil 7020 having an indicator opening 7044 passing through it. Figure 46 As can be seen, a series of indicator members 7206 are attached to the flexible strip 7202, such that each indicator member 7206 is slidably supported in a corresponding indicator opening 7044. Each indicator member 7206 is initially supported in its corresponding indicator opening 7044 such that it does not protrude from the indicator opening. In other words, the wave spring 7202 is configured to bias the indicator member 7206 into an initial position in which the indicator member does not protrude from its corresponding indicator opening 7044. However, as the cutting head 6050 is advanced distally through the end effector, the top portion 6054 of the cutting head 6050 slides along the bottom of the wave spring 7202 and serves to bias the wave spring 7202 upward, such that when the cutting head slides below a portion of the wave spring 7202 to which the indicator member 7206 is attached, the indicator member 7206 protrudes from the indicator opening 7044, as... Figure 46 As shown. Therefore, clinicians can monitor the position of the cutting head 6050 within the end effector by noting which indicator component 7206 protrudes from its indicator opening 7044.

[0430] Therefore, several elongated channel arrangements disclosed herein offer significant improvements over existing elongated channel arrangements. For example, at least some of these elongated channel arrangements do not use elongated slots extending through the bottom surface of the channel. Consequently, such elongated channel arrangements tend to be more rigid and resistant to expansion during operation. These advantages have also been achieved while providing clinicians with a means to monitor the progress of the cutting head. For example, some elongated channel arrangements provide cyclic visibility along the length of the channel to inform clinicians of the position of the cutting head during the firing cycle. At least some elongated channel arrangements also allow clinicians to see at least a portion of the cutting head when it is in the fully deployed position and when it is in the fully retracted position. Furthermore, at least some channel and / or anvil arrangements provide visibility of at least a portion of the cutting head from the side or top of the end effector, or otherwise provide a means for detecting the position of the cutting head from the side or top of the end effector.

[0431] As described above, a surgical cartridge operatively supports a series of staple actuators, each actuator holding one or more surgical staples thereon. The staple actuators are supported within correspondingly shaped staple recesses arranged in a linear orientation within the cartridge body. The surgical staples are movably supported on the actuators such that when the actuators are driven upwards within the cartridge, the staples are driven through the tissue held between the cartridge and the anvil and contact the underside of the anvil. When the anvil is opened, the staple remains attached to the sutured tissue. Because the staples are “loosely” supported in their respective recesses on their staple actuators, staples may fall out of the cartridge if it is accidentally inverted before use. To prevent this, the cartridge cover is typically removably attached to the cartridge body before use. When attached to the cartridge, the cover covers the staple recesses to retain the staples therein, regardless of the cartridge's position. The cover can be removed before installation when the clinician intends to install the cartridge into an end effector.

[0432] As further discussed above, the nail actuator is sequentially driven upward within the chamber by a wedge-shaped slider that drives distally together with the cutting head assembly. In at least some arrangements, the wedge-shaped slider thus responds in the nearest-side "start" position in the unused chamber before firing. Indeed, as also discussed above, at least some arrangements require interaction between the wedge-shaped slider (when in its start position) and the cutting head (when in its locked position) to move the cutting head out of the locked position to prepare it for firing. However, in at least some prior arrangements, the chamber lacks a means or structure for ensuring that the wedge-shaped slider remains in its start position before use. Figure 64 and Figure 65 The 7250 cover shown in the image can handle this type of problem.

[0433] Figure 64 A surgical staple cartridge 7220 with a cartridge body 7222 is shown, in which multiple staple drivers (not shown) are operatively supported on each side of a longitudinally extending slot 7224. The longitudinally extending slot 7224 is configured to facilitate longitudinal travel of the cutting head through the cartridge. (As can be seen...) Figure 65 As seen, the compartment 7220 also supports a wedge-shaped slider 7230 in the starting position, which is adjacent to the proximal end of the compartment body 7222. Figure 64 and Figure 65Also shown is a cartridge cover 7250 including a top portion 7252 configured to cover the cartridge platform 7226 when the cover 7250 is mounted on the cartridge 7220. More specifically, the top portion 7252 is configured to cover all fastener cavity openings in the platform 7226 of the cartridge body 7222 when the top portion 7252 is in the “covered position”. The cover 7250 can be removably attached to the cartridge 7220 via a pair of flexible attachment arms 7254 configured to retainably engage the cartridge body 7222. Clinicians can easily remove the cover 7250 by prying the flexible attachment arms 7254 out of engagement with the cartridge body 7222. The cover 7250 may also include a pair of downwardly extending side panels 7255 for positioning the cover 7250 in a desired location on the cartridge 7220. For example, side panels 7255 may be positioned to engage laterally extending lips 7227 formed on each side of the storage platform 7226. The storage cover 7250 may also include oriented portions that, when the storage cover 7250 is... Figure 65 The positioning fin 7256, when attached to the cartridge 7220, is centrally positioned within a longitudinally extending slot 7224. The positioning fin 7256 includes an engagement notch 7258 or one or more other formations configured to retain a portion of the engaging wedge-shaped slider 7230 and hold the wedge-shaped slider 7230 in its initial position. Therefore, when the cartridge cover 7250 is mounted to the nail cartridge 7220, the nails are held within their respective recesses, regardless of the orientation of the cartridge 7220. Furthermore, the wedge-shaped slider 7230 is held in its initial position. In various arrangements, the positioning fins may be dimensioned relative to the longitudinally extending slots 7224 to establish a frictional fit between them. In such arrangements, the frictional fit can be used to hold the cover 7250 in the proper position on the cartridge 7220 without the use of the attachment arm 7254. In other arrangements, the frictional fit established between the positioning fin 7256 and the housing 7222, as well as the attachment arm 7254, can be used to hold the cover 7250 in the covered position on the housing 7222. Furthermore, retaining ribs 7257 can be formed on the positioning fin 7256 to further establish a frictional fit with the housing 7222. Additionally, as can be... Figure 65As seen, the distal end 7221 of the surgical cartridge 7220 may have a nasal surface 7223 oriented at an angle relative to the cartridge platform 7226. In various arrangements, the cartridge cover 7250 may also include a nasal portion 7251 configured to retainably engage the distal end 7221 of the surgical cartridge 7220. For example, the nasal portion 7251 may be configured to cover the nasal surface 7223 of the cartridge 7220 and include a distal retaining tab 7253 arranged to engage the distal end 7221 of the cartridge 7220 in a hook-like manner. Furthermore, a disengagement tab or protrusion 7259 may be formed on the nasal portion 7251 to facilitate the disengagement of the retaining tab 7253 from the cartridge 7220. Thus, in some arrangements, the distal end of the cartridge cover 7250 is configured to allow it to absorb the full force of a dive and transmit that force directly to the cartridge 7220 with minimal longitudinal movement of the cover 7250 relative to the cartridge body 7222. This arrangement is designed to prevent the cover 7250 from moving proximally towards the slide 7230 under such conditions. The cover 7250 is removed when the clinician desires to use the cartridge 7220. In at least some arrangements, the cover 7250 may be provided with a specific color corresponding to the size of the staples received within the cartridge 7220.

[0434] As discussed in detail above, in various embodiments, surgical staples are supported in "actuators" operatively supported in recesses formed in the body of the staple cartridge. Various types of actuators can be used. For example, actuators may be configured to support a single surgical staple, while other actuators may support multiple surgical staples. The actuators are supported in the cartridge body in a longitudinally extending row disposed on each side of a centrally located elongated slot that accommodates a passageway for a cutting member or cutting head passing through it. As discussed earlier herein, the cutting head includes or engages with a wedge-shaped slider configured to sequentially contact the actuators to drive them upward in their recesses. As the actuators move upward in the staple cartridge, one or more surgical staples supported thereon are driven upward through the tissue clamped between the cartridge and the anvil and make contact with the underside of the anvil.

[0435] As is known, the underside of the anvil includes a "nail-forming" surface, which typically comprises a series of nail-forming recesses arranged to contact the ends of the nail legs. The recesses are configured and shaped such that when contacted by the nail legs, the legs are forced to bend around the recesses to ultimately form a closed nail that is generally similar to a "B-shape." Misalignment of the nail legs during the forming process can cause the nail to become deformed, which in severe cases can lead to undesirable leakage. Figure 94 and Figure 95The nail driver configuration shown helps maintain nail alignment during firing. Furthermore, if the driver does not maintain proper alignment within its corresponding recess during firing, a higher firing force must be generated to fire the nail supported thereon.

[0436] Figure 94 and Figure 95 A "dual" nail actuator 7300 is shown. As can be seen in those figures, the nail actuator 7300 includes a first actuator portion 7310 and a second actuator portion 7350, which are separated by a centrally located partition portion 7340 in an "alternating" orientation. The nail actuator 7300 may be a one-piece construction and is molded, for example, from a suitable polymer material. The first actuator portion 7310 includes a centrally located first cavity 7312 that divides the first actuator 7310 into a first proximal upright support portion 7320 and a first distal upright support portion 7330. The first proximal upright support portion 7320 has a first proximal body portion 7321 having an upper end 7322 having a first proximal base segment 7324 formed therein. Similarly, the first distal upright support portion 7330 has a first distal main body portion 7331, which has a first distal end portion 7332, which has a first distal base segment 7334 formed therein. The first proximal bottom segment 7324 and the first distal base segment 7334 are aligned and configured to support the base of a surgical staple therein. Figure 94 As can be further seen from above, the first proximal vertical support portion 7320 has a slightly tapered shape. In other words, the first proximal vertical support portion 7320 has a first proximal end 7326 with a width "PW" smaller than the center width "CW" of the first proximal main body portion 7321. Similarly, the first distal vertical support portion 7330 has a first distal end 7336 with a distal width "DW" smaller than the center width "CW" of the first distal main body portion 7331. In at least one arrangement, the distal width "DW" is equal to the proximal width "PW".

[0437] See also Figure 94The second actuator portion 7350 includes a centrally located second cavity 7352 that divides the second actuator portion 7310 into a second proximal erect support portion 7360 and a second distal erect support portion 7370. The second proximal erect support portion 7360 has a second proximal body portion 7361 with an upper end 7362 having a second proximal base segment 7364 formed therein. Similarly, the second distal erect support portion 7370 has a second distal body portion 7371 with a second distal end portion 7372 having a second distal base segment 7374 formed therein. The second proximal base segment 7364 and the second distal base segment 7374 are aligned and configured to support the base of another surgical staple therein. Figure 94 As can be further seen from above, the second proximal vertical support portion 7360 has a slightly tapered shape. In other words, the second proximal vertical support portion 7360 has a proximal end 7366 with a width "PW" smaller than the center width "CW" of the second proximal main body portion 7361. Similarly, the second distal vertical support portion 7370 has a distal end 7376 with a distal width "DW" smaller than the center width "CW" of the second distal main body portion 7371. Therefore, the first actuator portion 7310 and the second actuator portion 7350 have similar shapes.

[0438] To provide greater stability to the nail actuator 7300 during firing, the first actuator portion 7310 and the second actuator portion 7350 may further be provided with a stabilizer arrangement that engages with nail recesses of complementary shapes in the nail cartridge body. For example, the first nail actuator portion 7310 may have lateral protruding support posts 7328, 7329 of a first proximal group 7327 formed on its first proximal end 7326. Lateral protruding support posts 7338, 7339 of the first distal group 7337 may also be provided on the first distal end 7336 of the first distal erecting support portion 7330, as shown. Similarly, the second nail actuator portion 7350 may have lateral protruding support posts 7368, 7369 of a second proximal group 7367 formed on its second proximal end 7366. Lateral protruding support columns 7378 and 7379 of the second distal group 7377 can also be provided on the second distal end 7376 of the second distal vertical support portion 7370 as shown in the figure.

[0439] As noted above, the nail actuator 7300 and the complementary-shaped nail recess are movably supported in the nail cartridge. When the wedge-shaped slider is driven distally, its corresponding portion engages the centrally located partition portion 7340 in an actuated manner, driving the actuator 7300 upward. Each of the laterally projecting support posts 7328, 7329, 7338, 7339, 7368, 7369, 7378, and 7379 is received in a correspondingly shaped groove in the nail cartridge body and serves to maintain the alignment of the actuator 7300 and prevent the actuator from twisting during advancement toward the anvil. In one arrangement, the actuator 7300 is molded from a solid material or otherwise formed. However, in other arrangements, the first actuator portion 7310 and the second actuator portion 7350 may be hollow, allowing these portions of the actuator 7300 to be slightly flexible and compliant, thereby further maintaining the alignment of the actuator in its respective recess and thus further reducing the required driving force. In either arrangement, the alignment of the actuators within their respective recesses is further enhanced by providing alignment posts at both ends of the two actuator sections.

[0440] Figure 96 Another “dual” staple driver 7400 is shown, configured to be received in complementary-shaped staple recesses formed in the body of a surgical staple cartridge. (As can be seen...) Figure 96 As seen, the nail actuator 7400 includes a first actuator portion 7410 and a second actuator portion 7450 separated in an "interlaced" orientation by a centrally located partition portion 7440. The nail actuator 7400 may be a one-piece construction and may be molded, for example, from a suitable polymer material. The first actuator portion 7410 includes a centrally located first cavity 7412 that divides the first actuator 7410 into a first proximal upright support portion 7420 and a first distal upright support portion 7430. The first proximal upright support portion 7420 has a first proximal body portion 7421 having an upper end 7422 having a first proximal base segment 7424 formed therein. Similarly, the first distal upright support portion 7430 has a first distal body portion 7431 having a first distal end portion 7432 having a first distal base segment 7434 formed therein. The first proximal base segment 7424 and the first distal base s...

Claims

1. A fastener compartment, comprising: Includes the platform's housing, which is configured to support the organization; A fastener cavity defined in the housing, wherein the fastener cavity includes a first cavity end and a second cavity end, the first cavity end including a first end wall and the second cavity end including a second end wall; and Fasteners removably stored in the fastener cavity, the fasteners comprising: Base; A first leg extending from the base, wherein the first leg is removably positioned in the end of the first cavity, and wherein the first leg contacts the first end wall; and A second leg extending from the base, wherein the second leg is removably positioned in the end of the second cavity, and wherein the second leg contacts the second end wall. The fastener chamber further includes: a first protrusion extending from the platform, wherein the first protrusion is configured to support the first leg when the fastener is ejected from the fastener cavity; and a second protrusion extending from the platform, wherein the second protrusion is configured to support the second leg when the fastener is ejected from the fastener cavity. Each of the first protrusion and the second protrusion is configured to engage tissue positioned on the fastener chamber and restrict tissue flow relative to the fastener chamber, and includes an arcuate ridge extending around a corresponding cavity end of a first cavity end and a corresponding cavity end of the fastener cavity, the arcuate ridge including a sleeve portion and a transition portion extending from the opposite end of the sleeve portion to the platform.

2. The fastener compartment according to claim 1, wherein, The first leg of the fastener includes a first end, and the second leg of the fastener includes a second end.

3. The fastener housing according to claim 2, wherein, When the fastener is stored in the fastener cavity, the first end is positioned within the first protrusion, and when the fastener is stored in the fastener cavity, the second end is positioned within the second protrusion.

4. The fastener housing according to claim 2, wherein, When the fastener is stored in the fastener cavity, the first end is positioned below the first protrusion, and when the fastener is stored in the fastener cavity, the second end is positioned below the second protrusion.

5. The fastener compartment according to claim 1, wherein, The first and second protrusions extend the fastener cavity above the platform.

6. The fastener compartment according to claim 5, wherein, The first end wall of the fastener cavity extends seamlessly into the first protrusion, and the second end wall of the fastener cavity extends seamlessly into the second protrusion.

7. The fastener housing according to claim 1, wherein, The first distance between the first leg and the second leg of the fastener is wider than the second distance between the first end wall and the second end wall, so that the first leg is biased inward by the first end wall and the second leg is biased inward by the second end wall.

Images