Surgical stapler cartridge with raised surfaces to facilitate adhesion of reinforcing pads

Abstract

A stapling assembly for a surgical instrument, the stapling assembly comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper deck; a plurality of dimples extending through the upper deck for receiving respective staples and arranged in at least two longitudinal rows; a plurality of staple drivers; and a staple driver actuator. The stitching assembly also includes a plurality of dimple extensions extending upwardly from the upper deck. Each dimple extension has a respective top surface. The suture assembly also includes at least one upwardly facing surface configured to contact an adhesive of an appendage for securing the appendage to the suture assembly. The at least one upwardly facing surface is disposed at least partially between at least a portion of the upper platform and the top surface of the plurality of dimple extensions, and at least partially laterally spans at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of dimples.

Description

Priority

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 467,648, filed May 19, 2023, entitled “Surgical Stapler Cartridge Having Raised Surface to Promote Buttress Adhesion,” the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. BACKGROUND

[0002] In some settings, endoscopic surgical instruments have been developed for application in a less invasive procedure. In comparison to traditional open surgical techniques, endoscopic surgery is typically less invasive and fewer post-operative recovery time. As such, some endoscopic surgical instruments can be adapted for insertion into a trocar that has been placed through a small incision in a patient. These distal end effectors (e.g., endocutters, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, drug / gene therapy delivery devices, and energy delivery devices using ultrasonic, RF, laser, and the like) can engage tissue in a variety of ways to achieve a diagnostic or therapeutic effect. Endoscopic surgical instruments can include a shaft between the end effector and a handle portion or other type of body portion that is manipulated by the clinician or robot operator. Such a shaft can enable insertion into a patient’s body along a desired path and articulation about the longitudinal axis of the shaft to facilitate positioning of the end effector within the patient’s body. Positioning of the end effector can be further facilitated by including one or more articulation joints or features that enable selective articulation or otherwise deflection of the end effector relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

[0003] Examples of endoscopic surgical instruments include surgical staplers. Some such staplers are operable to clamp a layer of tissue, cut through the clamped layer of tissue, and drive staples through the clamped layer of tissue to substantially seal together the severed layers of tissue about the severed end of the tissue layer. Such endoscopic surgical staplers can also be used in open surgeries and / or other non-endoscopic procedures. By way of example only, in thoracic surgeries, a surgical stapler can be inserted through a thoracotomy and thereby positioned between the patient’s ribs to access one or more organs. Such surgeries can include using the stapler to sever and close blood vessels leading to an organ, such as a lung. For example, the blood vessels leading to an organ can be severed and closed by the stapler prior to removal of the organ from the thoracic cavity. Of course, surgical staplers can be used in a variety of other situations and procedures.

[0004] Surgical stapling assemblies (e.g., cartridges) of surgical staplers can include raised features extending upwardly from their decks for enhancing the hold of the stapling assembly on tissue when the end effector is closed and / or for guiding the staple legs of the staples as they exit the corresponding staple openings during deployment of the staples. For example, such raised features can extend upwardly from the deck at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge pocket and can be referred to as pocket extensions. In some instances, it can also be desirable to adhere adjunct materials, such as reinforcement pads, to the stapling assembly for deployment with the staples to enhance the mechanical fastening of tissue provided by the deployed staples. Typically, such adjunct materials are adhered directly to the deck via adhesive material. However, the height of the aforementioned raised hold features can result in undesirable adhesion of the adjunct material to the stapling assembly, such as by impeding the adhesive material from contacting the deck. The surgical staplers of the present disclosure are intended to provide improved adhesion of reinforcement pads and other adjunct materials to stapling assemblies having such raised hold features.

[0005] While various surgical staplers and associated components have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the inventors has made or used the application described in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate examples of the application and, together with the general description of the application given in the following detailed description, serve to explain the principles of the application.

[0007] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an example surgical stapler; FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of an example surgical stapler; FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of an example surgical stapler; FIG. 3 depicts an exploded perspective view of an example end effector; FIG. 2 depicts an exploded perspective view of an example end effector; FIG. 4A depicts an exploded perspective view of an example end effector; FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 4B depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 5 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 2 depicts a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 6 Depicting FIG. 2 A perspective view of the end effector, which is shown as firing once on the first segment of the tissue and positioned to clamp and fire on the second segment of the tissue; FIG. 7 A perspective view depicts a pair of exemplary reinforcing pad assemblies, wherein each reinforcing pad assembly can be applied to... FIG. 2 The jaws of the end effector; FIG. 8A Depicting FIG. 2 A cross-sectional end view of a portion of the end effector, wherein FIG. 7 The reinforcing pad assembly is applied to the upper and lower jaws of the end effector, showing the end effector jaws in the open state, with tissue positioned between the upper and lower jaws; FIG. 8B Depicting FIG. 8A A cross-sectional end view of the end effector and reinforcing pad assembly, showing the end effector jaws in a tissue-closed state; FIG. 8C Depicting shaped nails and FIG. 8A The reinforcing pad assembly is in the process of FIG. 2 A cross-sectional view after the end effector is fixed to the tissue; FIG. 9 Depicting shaped nails and FIG. 8A The reinforcing pad assembly is in the process of FIG. 2 A three-dimensional view of the end effector after it has been fixed to the tissue; FIG. 10 Describes what can be applied to FIG. 2 A top plan view of another example of the reinforcing pad assembly of the jaws of the end effector; FIG. 11 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with an end effector and has an enlarged distal recess extension having a distal ramp surface rounded in the lateral direction. The enlarged distal recess extension is configured to facilitate... FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 Any one of the reinforcing pad components is adhered to the staple cartridge; FIG. 12 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with an end effector and has an enlarged distal recess extension having a rounded distal ramp surface in the longitudinal direction. The enlarged distal recess extension is configured to facilitate... FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 Any one of the reinforcing pad components is adhered to the staple cartridge; FIG. 13depicts a perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector of FIG. 2 and having a contoured upper profile configured to facilitate adhesion of any one of the reinforcement pad assemblies of FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 to the staple cartridge; FIG. 14 depicts a partial side elevational view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 13 ; FIG. 15 depicts a partial perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector of FIG. 2 and having a domed contact pad configured to facilitate adhesion of any one of the reinforcement pad assemblies of FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 to the staple cartridge; FIG. 16 depicts a perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector of FIG. 2 and having a tissue stabilizing wedge configured to facilitate adhesion of any one of the reinforcement pad assemblies of FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 to the staple cartridge; FIG. 17 depicts a partial side elevational view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 16 ; FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector of FIG. 2 and having a distal contact pad configured to facilitate adhesion of any one of the reinforcement pad assemblies of FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 to the staple cartridge; FIG. 19 depicts a top plan view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 18 ; FIG. 20 depicts a side elevational view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 18 ; FIG. 21 depicts a perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector of FIG. 2 and having a distal contact pad and a proximal contact pad configured to facilitate adhesion of any one of the reinforcement pad assemblies of FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 to the staple cartridge; FIG. 22 depicts a top plan view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 21 ; FIG. 23 depicts a side elevational view of a staple cartridge of FIG. 21 ; FIG. 24 depicts a perspective view of another example of a staple cartridge for use with an end effector ofFIG. 2 It is used together with an end effector and has an adhesive patterned contact pad, which is configured to facilitate... FIG. 7 to FIG. 10 Any one of the reinforcing pad components is adhered to the staple cartridge; FIG. 25 Depicting FIG. 24 A top-down plan view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 26 Depicting FIG. 24 A side view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 27 Depicting FIG. 24 A partial 3D view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 28 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with the end effector and has a distal protruding grip feature, each distal protruding grip feature spanning three rows of recesses; FIG. 29 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with an end effector and has a gripping feature with distal protrusions tilted in multiple directions; FIG. 30 Depicting along FIG. 29 The line in the middle is cut off at 30-30. FIG. 29 A cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 31 A perspective view depicting another example of a staple cartridge, which is... FIG. 2 It is used together with the end actuator and has a lateral outward guide for reinforcing pad adhesion; FIG. 32 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with the end actuator and has interconnected recess extensions for reinforcing pad adhesion and lateral inner guides; FIG. 33 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with the end actuator and has a circular receptacle for reinforcing pad adhesion; FIG. 34 Depicting FIG. 33 Another partial perspective view of the staple cartridge shows the linear receptacle used to reinforce pad adhesion; FIG. 35 Depicting FIG. 33 Another partial perspective view of the staple cartridge shows the "+" shaped receptacle used to reinforce pad adhesion; FIG. 36 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2It is used together with end effectors and has a bidirectional conical platform surface for tissue flow control; FIG. 37 Depicting FIG. 36 Rear front view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 38 Depicting FIG. 36 A side view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 39 A partial perspective view depicts another example of a staple cartridge, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with end effectors and has a convex platform surface for tissue flow control; FIG. 40 Depicting along FIG. 39 The line is cut at 40-40. FIG. 39 A cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge; FIG. 41 A front view of another example of a staple cartridge is depicted, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with an end effector and has a convex platform surface and a horizontal recessed extension; FIG. 42 A front view of another example of a staple cartridge is depicted, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with end effectors and has a convex platform surface and a curved recessed extension; FIG. 43 A front view of another example of a staple cartridge is depicted, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with the end effector and has a flat platform surface and a stepped recessed extension; FIG. 44 A front view depicting another example of a staple cartridge, which is... FIG. 2 Used together with end effectors and having a stepped platform surface and a stepped recessed extension; and FIG. 45 A front view of another example of a staple cartridge is depicted, which is compared to... FIG. 2 It is used together with end effectors and has a flat platform and a side outward clearance.

[0008] The accompanying drawings are not intended to be limiting in any way, and various embodiments of the invention can be conceived to be implemented in many other ways, including those not necessarily shown in the drawings. The drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention; however, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the explicit arrangements shown. Detailed Implementation

[0009] The following description of certain examples of the present technology should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present technology. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is given by way of example and represents one of the best ways contemplated for implementing the present technology. As will be appreciated, the technology described herein can have other different and obvious aspects, all of which are not departing from the present technology. Therefore, the accompanying drawings and descriptions should be considered substantially illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0010] For clarity of disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein with respect to a human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the element location of the surgical end effector that is closer to the human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument and further away from the surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to the element location of the surgical end effector that is closer to the surgical instrument and further away from the human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument. Furthermore, the terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," and "top" are relative terms to provide additional clarity to the figures provided below. Therefore, the terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," and "top" are not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein.

[0011] Furthermore, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” etc., used herein in conjunction with any numerical value, numerical range, and / or geometric / positional quantification are intended to cover the precise values ​​cited and the appropriate tolerances that enable the cited features or combinations of features to achieve the intended purpose described herein. For example, “substantially parallel” covers structures that are nominally parallel.

[0012] As used herein in conjunction with any example of the end effector jaw end, an end described as “angled,” “bent,” or “knocked” encompasses an end configuration in which the end extends along a longitudinal path (e.g., linear or arcuate) that is not coaxial with and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the jaw body; in particular, a configuration in which the longitudinal end path extends distally toward the opposite jaw. Conversely, an end described as “straight” encompasses an end configuration in which the longitudinal axis of the end is substantially parallel to or coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the jaw body.

[0013] I. Overview of Surgical Stapler Features FIG. 1 to FIG. 6An exemplary surgical stapler (10) is depicted, its dimensions being configured to be inserted into a patient's surgical site via a cannula or surgical incision (e.g., thoracotomy, etc.) to perform a surgical procedure. The surgical stapler (10) includes a body, exemplified as a handle assembly (20), a shaft (30) extending distally from the handle assembly (20) along a longitudinal axis (LA) and terminating distally at a joint motion joint (32), and an end effector (40) operatively connected to the shaft (30) via the joint motion joint (32).

[0014] Once the end effector (40) and the articulation connector (32) are inserted distally through the cannula channel, the articulation connector (32) can perform remote joint movements via the articulation control, such as... FIG. 1 As shown by the dashed line, the joint motion control is exemplified as a rotatable knob (22) of the handle assembly (20) that allows the end effector (40) to deviate from the longitudinal axis (LA) at a desired angle (α). The joint motion connector (32) and related features for manipulating the joint motion connector (32) may be further configured according to the teachings of U.S. Patent No. 9,186,142, entitled “Surgical Instrument End Effector Articulation Drive with Pinion and Opposing Racks,” published November 17, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0015] The end effector (40) includes a lower jaw, exemplified as a cartridge jaw (42), configured to removably receive a staple cartridge (70) (also referred to as a “reloading element”); and an upper jaw, exemplified as an anvil jaw (44) (also referred to as an “anvil”), which pivots relative to the cartridge jaw (42) to hold tissue between them. In other configurations, the end effector (40) may alternatively be configured to pivot the cartridge jaw (42) relative to the anvil jaw (44). Unless otherwise described, the term “pivot” (and its variations) as used herein in conjunction with the relative movement between the jaws (42, 44) encompasses, but is not necessarily limited to, pivoting movement about a fixed axis. For example, in some forms, the anvil jaws (44) are pivotable about an axis defined by a pin (or similar feature) that translates in a sliding manner along an elongated slot or channel as the anvil jaws (44) move toward the jaws (42). Such translation can occur before, during, or after the pivoting movement. Therefore, it should be understood that the term “pivot” and its variations, as used herein with reference to the relative movement between the jaws (42, 44), encompass a combination of such pivoting and translational movements.

[0016] likeFIG. 1 As shown, the handle assembly (20) includes a pistol grip (24) and a closing trigger (26). The closing trigger (26) is pivotable toward the pistol grip (24) such that the anvil jaws (44) clamp or close toward the jaws (42) of the end effector (40). Such closure of the anvil jaws (44) is provided by a closing tube (34) and a closing ring (36) of the shaft (30), both of which are longitudinally translated relative to the handle assembly (20) in response to the pivoting of the closing trigger (26) relative to the pistol grip (24). The closing tube (34) extends along the length of the shaft (30); and the closing ring (36) is positioned distal to the articulated joint (32). The articulated joint (32) is operable to transmit longitudinal movement from the closing tube (34) to the closing ring (36), thereby actuating the anvil jaws (44) relative to the jaws (42).

[0017] The shank assembly (20) also includes a firing trigger (28). An elongated actuator (not shown) extends longitudinally through the shaft (30) and, in response to actuation of the firing trigger (28), transmits longitudinal firing motion from the shank assembly (20) to the firing member (also referred to herein as the firing driver) exemplified as the firing beam (46). Thus, the firing beam (46) translates distally during the firing stroke to induce suturing and cutting of tissue held by the end effector (40), as will be described in more detail below. Although not shown, the handle assembly (20) may also include a motor capable of operating to actuate such a firing assembly component of the surgical stapler (10) in response to actuation of the firing trigger (28) by a user, for example, as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 8,453,914 entitled “Motor-Driven Surgical Cutting Instrument with Electric Actuator Directional Control Assembly”, published June 4, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0018] like FIG. 2 to FIG. 5As shown, the firing beam (46) includes a proximal beam portion (48) and a distal blade portion (50), wherein the distal blade portion (50) may be integrally formed with the distal end of the proximal beam portion (48), or formed separately and subsequently firmly attached to the distal end of the proximal beam portion (17). The distal blade portion (50) includes a laterally oriented upper protrusion exemplified as an upper pin (52), a laterally oriented lower protrusion exemplified as a cap (54), a laterally oriented intermediate protrusion exemplified as a middle pin (56), and a cutting edge (58) extending distally. The upper pin (52) is slidable within a longitudinal anvil jaw slot (62) of the anvil jaw (44), and the cap (54) is slidable along the lower surface of the jaw (42) defined by the longitudinal jaw slot (64). The intermediate pin (56) is slidable along the top surface of the jaws (42) and engages with the cap (54) to stabilize and guide the distal blade portion (50) along the longitudinal firing stroke. The firing beam (46) may be further constructed and operated in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent No. 9,717,497, entitled “Lockout Feature for Movable Cutting Member of Surgical Instrument,” published August 1, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0019] FIG. 2 The anvil jaws (44) are shown pivoted in the open position, with the firing beam (46) positioned proximally, which allows an unused (i.e., unfired) staple cartridge (70) to be removably inserted into the channel of the cartridge jaws (42). FIG. 2 to FIG. 3 Ideally visible, the staple cartridge (70) includes a cartridge body (72) that presents an upper platform (74) defining a first suture surface and a lower plate (76) (also referred to as a "tray") attached to the lower side of the cartridge body (72). A vertical blade slot (78) extends longitudinally through the cartridge body (72) and is configured to receive the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46) in a slidable manner. In this configuration, three rows of cartridge recesses 80 (also referred to as "staple openings," "staple holes," or "staple cavities") are formed along each side of the blade slot (78) through the upper platform (74).

[0020] like FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 As shown, the staple cartridge (70) also includes a slider (82) (also referred to as a “wedge slider”) and a plurality of staple actuators (84) movably engaged between the cartridge body (72) and the disc (76). Each staple actuator (84) is aligned with a corresponding recess (80) and is capable of vertical movement within that recess. The staple (86) is positioned within the corresponding recess (80), above the corresponding staple actuator (84). During the firing stroke, the slider (82) is propelled within the staple cartridge (70) by the distal blade portion (50).FIG. 4A The longitudinal actuation at the proximal position shown is to FIG. 4B The distal position is shown. The angled cam surface of the slider (82) causes the nail driver (84) to make a vertical upward cam motion within the bin recess (80) to drive the nail (86) upward above the platform (74), thereby ejecting the nail (86) from the bin recess (80) and toward the anvil jaws (44).

[0021] More specifically, in the end effector (40) such as FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B In the closed configuration shown, by guiding the upper pin (52) into the longitudinal anvil slot (62), the firing beam (46) is actuated distally to engage with the anvil jaws (44). The distal end protrusion (60) of the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46) (see...) FIG. 5 The sliding member (82) engages at its proximal end and is driven distally when the distal blade portion (50) advances distally through the staple cartridge (70) in response to the actuation of the firing trigger (28). During such firing, the distal blade portion (50) advances distally along the blade slot (78) of the staple cartridge (70), such that the cutting edge (58) severs the tissue held between the staple cartridge (70) and the anvil jaws (44).

[0022] like FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B As shown, the intermediate pin (56) and the distal end protrusion (60) together actuate the staple cartridge (70) by entering the blade slot (78), thereby driving the slider (82) to contact the cam of the staple driver (84), thereby actuating the staple driver (84) upward, which in turn drives the staple (86) outward through the cartridge recess (80), through the clamped tissue, and into the staple forming recess (66) on the second suture surface defined by the anvil jaws (44) (see See FIG. 2 Forming contact. Such suturing of the tissue, facilitated by the cam action interaction between the slider (82) and the nail driver (84), is performed simultaneously with tissue cutting performed by the cutting blade (58). However, it should be understood that for each longitudinal segment of tissue held by the end actuator (40), the nail (86) may be slightly ejected into the tissue before the cutting blade (58) cuts the tissue, to ensure that the tissue is sutured and thus sealed before being cut. FIG. 4B The firing beam (46) is depicted as being completely translated distally at the end of the firing stroke after the tissue held by the end effector (40) has been sutured and cut.

[0023] The staple cartridge (70) and the anvil jaws (44) may be further constructed and operated in accordance with the teachings of the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 9,808,248, entitled “Installation Features for Surgical Instrument EndEffector Cartridge”, published November 7, 2017; U.S. Patent No. 9,839,421, entitled “JawClosure Feature for End Effector of Surgical Instrument”, published December 12, 2017; U.S. Patent No. 10,092,292, entitled “Staple Forming Features for Surgical Stapling Instrument”, published October 9, 2018; and / or U.S. Patent No. 10,130,359, entitled “Method for Forming a Staple”, published November 20, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0024] FIG. 6 The end effector (40) is shown to have been actuated in a single-shot stroke on tissue (T) having a first layer and a second layer (T1, T2). Cutting blade (58) (see...) FIG. 2 to FIG. 5 The tissue (T) has been cut through, and the staple driver (84) has driven three rows of alternating staples (86) across the tissue (T) on each side of the cutting line created by the cutting blade (58). After the first firing stroke is completed, the end effector (40) is removed from the patient, the used staple cartridge (70) is replaced with a new unused staple cartridge (70), and then the end effector (40) is reinserted into the patient to reach the suture site for further cutting and suturing. This process can be repeated until the desired number and pattern of firing strokes across the tissue (T) have been completed.

[0025] II. Examples of Reinforcement Pad Assemblies In some cases, it may be desirable to equip the end actuator (40) of the surgical stapler (10) with an adjunct material (such as a reinforcing pad) to reinforce the mechanical fastening of the tissue (T) provided by the staples (86). This reinforcing pad prevents the applied staples (86) from tearing through the tissue (T) and may otherwise reduce the risk of tissue (T) tearing at or near the site of the applied staples (86). In addition to providing structural support and integrity for a row of staples (86), or as an alternative, the reinforcing pad can provide a variety of other effects, such as gap or space filling, application of therapeutic agents, and / or other effects. In some cases, the reinforcing pad may be positioned on the upper platform (74) of the staple cartridge (70). As described above, the platform (74) houses the staples (86) driven by the staple driver (84). In some other cases, the reinforcing pad may be positioned on the surface of the anvil (44) facing the staple cartridge (70). It should also be understood that the first reinforcing pad may be disposed on the upper platform (74) of the staple cartridge (70), while the second reinforcing pad may be disposed on the anvil (44) of the same end actuator (40).

[0026] Various examples of the forms in which the reinforcing pad may take will be described in more detail below. Various ways in which the reinforcing pad may be attached to the staple cartridge (70) or the anvil (44) will also be described in more detail below. Exemplary reinforcing pad assemblies, exemplary materials and techniques for applying the reinforcing pad assemblies, and exemplary reinforcing pad applicator cartridges may be constructed in accordance with at least some of the teachings of the following patents: U.S. Patent No. 10,166,023, entitled “Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler End Effector”, published January 1, 2019; U.S. Patent No. 10,349,939, entitled “Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler”, published July 16, 2019; and / or U.S. Patent No. 11,166,724, entitled “Adhesive Distribution on Buttress for Surgical Stapler”, published November 9, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] A. First Example of a Reinforcement Pad Assembly FIG. 7A pair of exemplary reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) (each also individually referred to as a “reinforcing pad”) are shown. The reinforcing pad assembly (D110) of this example includes a reinforcing pad body (D114) and an upper adhesive layer (D116). Similarly, the reinforcing pad assembly (D112) includes a reinforcing pad body (D118) and a lower adhesive layer (D120). In this example, each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) comprises a strong but flexible material configured to structurally support a row of nails (86). By way of example only, each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) may comprise a mesh of Polyglactin 910 material manufactured by Ethicon, Inc. of Somerville, New Jersey. Alternatively, in addition to Polyglactin 910 material or as another option, any other suitable material or combination of materials may be used to form each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118).

[0028] Each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) may include a material containing, for example, a hemostatic agent (such as fibrin) to assist in coagulation and reduce bleeding at surgical sites along tissue (T1, T2) during cutting and / or suturing. As another illustrative example only, each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) may include other appendages, or may use a hemostatic agent (such as thrombin), such that each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) assists in coagulation and reduces bleeding at the surgical site. Other appendages or agents that may be incorporated into each reinforcing pad body (D114, D118) may further include, but are not limited to, medical fluids or matrix components.

[0029] In this example, an adhesive layer (D116) is applied to the reinforcing pad body (D114) to adhere the reinforcing pad body (D114) to the underside (D124) of the anvil (44). Similarly, an adhesive layer (D120) is applied to the reinforcing pad body (D118) to adhere the reinforcing pad body (D118) to the upper platform (74) of the staple cartridge (70). Such adhesive material provides proper positioning of the reinforcing pad bodies (D114, D118) before and during actuation of the end effector (40); and then allows the reinforcing pad bodies (D114, D118) to separate from the end effector (40) after the end effector (40) has been actuated without causing substantial damage to the reinforcing pad bodies (D114, D118) sufficient to impair their subsequent normal function.

[0030] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8CAn exemplary sequence is shown in which a surgical suture end actuator (40) loaded with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) is actuated to drive a staple (86) through two opposing tissue layers (T1, T2), wherein the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) are secured to the same tissue layers (T1, T2) by the staple (86). Specifically, FIG. 8A Tissue layers (T1, T2) positioned between the anvil (44) and the staple cartridge (70) are shown, with the anvil (44) in the open position. A reinforcing pad assembly (D110) is adhered to the underside of the anvil (44) via an adhesive layer (D116); while a reinforcing pad assembly (D112) is adhered to the upper platform (74) of the staple cartridge (70) via an adhesive layer (D120). Tissue layers (T1, T2) are thus positioned between the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112). Next, the closing trigger (26) pivots toward the pistol grip (24) to drive the closing tube (34) and closing ring (36) distally. This drives the anvil (44) to... FIG. 8B The closed position is shown. At this stage, the tissue layers (T1, T2) are compressed between the anvil (44) and the staple cartridge (70), and the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) engage the opposing surfaces of the tissue layers (T1, T2). The end effector (40) is then actuated as described above, driving the staple (86) through the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) and the tissue (T1, T2). FIG. 8C As shown, the crown (D122) of the driven nail (86) captures and holds the reinforcing pad assembly (D112) against the tissue layer (T2). The deformed leg (D126) of the nail (86) captures and holds the reinforcing pad assembly (D110) against the tissue layer (T1).

[0031] A series of pins (86) similarly capture and hold the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112) against the tissue layer (T1, T2), thereby securing the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112) to the tissue (T1, T2), as... FIG. 9 As shown. After the deployment of the staple (86) and the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112), as the end effector (40) is pulled away from the tissue (T1, T2), the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112) disengages from the end effector (40), such that the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112) remains fixed to the tissue (T1, T2) along with the staple (86). The reinforcing pads (D110, D112) thus provide structural reinforcement for the staple filament (86) formed in the tissue (T1, T2). FIG. 9As can also be seen, the cutting edge (58) of the firing beam (46) facing the far side also cuts through the center line of the reinforcing pad tissue assembly (D110, D112), dividing each reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112) into a corresponding pair of parts, so that each part remains fixed to the corresponding cut area of ​​the tissue (T1, T2).

[0032] B. Second Example of a Reinforcement Pad Assembly FIG. 10 Another example of a reinforcing pad assembly (D160) is shown, which may be similar to the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) includes a reinforcing pad body (D164) and an adhesive (D166) on a surface (D168) of the reinforcing pad body (D164). The reinforcing pad body (D164) may include one or more layers of material. In the case of using multiple layers, these layers may be laminated together. In some examples, the reinforcing pad body (D164) includes a mesh layer and one or more film layers laminated together. In some other examples, the reinforcing pad body (D164) includes one or more film layers but does not have a mesh layer. Given the teachings herein, various other materials for the one or more layers of the reinforcing pad body (D164) will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0033] In this example, the reinforcing pad body (D164) is made of an absorbable material configured to be completely absorbed by the patient's body when used to reinforce incision and suture sites. In some examples, the reinforcing pad body (D164) is made of Polyglactin 910, which is 90% glycolide and 10% L-lactide. Examples of Polyglactin 910 are provided by Ethicon Inc. under the trade name Vicryl. ® Manufacturing. In view of the teachings herein, other absorbable synthetic materials for reinforcing the pad body (D164) will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0034] The reinforcing pad body (D164) extends along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end (D170) and a distal end (D172), defining a length extending from the proximal end (D170) to the distal end (D172). The reinforcing pad body (D164) includes a first edge region (D174), a second edge region (D176), and a central region (D178) located between and separating the first edge region (D174) and the second edge region (D176). The reinforcing pad body (D164) defines a width orthogonal to its length extension as defined above, wherein its width extends from the first edge region (D174) across the central region (D178) and through the second edge region (D176).

[0035] Adhesive (D166) extends from the proximal end (D170) to the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164). Furthermore, in this example, the adhesive (D166) extends continuously or uninterruptedly. As shown in Figure 8, the adhesive (D166) is positioned along the first edge region (D174) and the second edge region (D176), wherein the central region (D178) is substantially free of adhesive (D166). As shown in Figure 8, the central region (D178) of the reinforcing pad body (D164) includes a slit (D180) configured to facilitate or benefit cutting and separating the reinforcing pad body (D164) into substantially equal halves during the cutting and stitching operations discussed above. In this example, the longitudinal axis of the reinforcing pad body (D164) passes through the slit (D180), and on each side of the central region (D178), the adhesive (D166) defines a pattern substantially symmetrical about the longitudinal axis to the other side.

[0036] The adhesive (D166) includes a first strip (D182) and a second strip (D184) applied to a first edge region (D174), and a third strip (D186) and a fourth strip (D188) applied to a second edge region (D176). Each strip (D182, D184, D186, D188) extends approximately from the proximal end (D170) of the reinforcing pad body (D164) to the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164). The second and fourth strips (D184, D188) extend closer to the side compared to the first and third strips (D182, D186), while all four strips (D182, D184, D186, D188) extend distally relative to the reinforcing pad body (D164) to substantially the same extent. As mentioned above, the first and second adhesive strips (D182, D184) and the third and fourth adhesive strips (D186, D188) are generally symmetrical about the longitudinal axis defining the centerline of the reinforcing pad body (D164). This arrangement results in more adhesive (D166) at the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164) than at the proximal end (D170). In examples like this one, where there is more adhesive (D166) at the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), this helps the reinforcing pad body (D164) to remain attached to and aligned with the corresponding part of the end effector (40) when the end effector (40) is operated forcefully (i.e., when puncturing the stoma, axially sliding onto the tissue, etc.).

[0037] It should be understood that the surgical stapler end effector (40) may be loaded with one or more reinforcing pad assemblies (D160) and actuated to drive the staple (86) through two opposing layers of tissue (T1, T2), wherein the one or more reinforcing pad assemblies (D160) are combined in a manner similar to that described above. FIG. 8A to FIG. 9 The described method involves fixing the tissue layers (T1, T2) to the same tissue layer using nails (86).

[0038] III. Examples of Cartridges with Raised Surfaces for Reinforcement Pad Adhesion In some cases, it may be desirable to increase the surface area of ​​the area of ​​the staple cartridge (70) that contacts the adhesive layer or strips (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160), for example, where the staple cartridge (70) includes recessed extensions or other protruding features whose height may impede the adhesive layer or strips (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) from reaching the platform (74). For example, increasing the surface area of ​​such areas of the staple cartridge (70) can improve the adhesion of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (70).

[0039] More specifically, it may be desirable to improve the adhesion of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) at the distal end of the cartridge (70). Because the distal end of the cartridge (70) is the part of the cartridge (70) that first contacts the tissue when positioning the end effector (40), it may experience greater forces during use compared to the proximal end of the cartridge (70). Therefore, stronger attachment of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) at the distal end of the cartridge (70) may be beneficial for maintaining the attachment and alignment of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) with the corresponding parts of the cartridge (70) (e.g., by inhibiting the anatomical structures encountered by the distal end of the cartridge (70) from being pried off the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)). In addition or alternatively, it may be desirable to improve the adhesion of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) at the proximal end of the cartridge (70). For example, such improved adhesion at the proximal end of the cartridge (70) may inhibit movement of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) (e.g., "plowing"), such as by hindering the distal movement of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) during the distal translation of the firing beam (46) (e.g., during the firing stroke). In addition or alternatively, it may be desirable to improve the adhesion of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) at one or more discrete locations along the length of the cartridge (70) between the proximal and distal ends of the cartridge (70).

[0040] Each example of the pinning bins (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910) described below provides this type of functionality.

[0041] A. First Example of a Staple Cartridge with Enlarged Distal Pocket Extensions FIG. 11A portion of another example of a staple cartridge (D210) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D210) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D210) of this example includes a cartridge body (D212) having an upward-facing platform (D214), an elongated slot (D218) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D212) and opening upward through the platform (D214) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D220) extending through the platform (D214) on each side of the blade slot (D218). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D220) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D218) and pass through the upper platform (D214), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D218). Each recess (D220) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D212), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D212). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D212) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0042] The staple cartridge (D210) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234), which extend upward from the platform (D214) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D220), such that each cartridge recess (D220) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234). Any or more of the recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D210) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) of the staple cartridge (D210), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as the staple leg (D126) leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D220) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D210).

[0043] In the example shown, the plurality of recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234) include a plurality of first recess extensions (D230a, D230b) having a first configuration, a plurality of second recess extensions (D232) having a second configuration different from the first configuration, and a plurality of third recess extensions (D234) having a third configuration different from the first and second configurations. The first recess extensions (D230a, D230b) include a proximal first recess extension (D230a) located at or near the proximal end of each recess (D220) in each row, and also include a distal first recess extension (D230b) located at or near the distal end of each recess (D220) in each row, except for the distalmost recess (D220) in each row. In this respect, the second recess extension (D232) is located at or near the distal end of the outermost recess (D220) of the outer row, and the third recess extension (D234) is located at or near the distal end of the innermost recess (D220) of the middle row, such that each third recess extension (D234) laterally spans two rows of recesses (D220) on the corresponding side of the knife slot (D218) (e.g., the corresponding inner and middle rows of recesses (D220)).

[0044] As shown in the figure, each first recess extension (D230a, D230b) includes a generally U-shaped body (D240a, D240b) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D242a, D242b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding recess (D220). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D242a, D242b) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D220) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D220) by a nail driver. The body (D240a) of each proximal first recess extension (D230a) further defines a proximal-facing outer surface (D244a) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D214), while the body (D240b) of each distal first recess extension (D230b) further defines a distal-facing outer surface (D244b) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D214). The body (D240a, D240b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b) further defines an upward-facing top (e.g., uppermost) surface (D246a, D246b) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D214). The top surfaces (D246a, D246b) may be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D214).

[0045] Each second recess extension (D232) includes a generally U-shaped body (D250) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D252) for receiving a corresponding leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding distal outer discharge recess (D220). In this respect, the dimensions and configuration of each nail leg receiving portion (D252) may be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding discharge recess (D220) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the discharge recess (D220) by a nail driver. The body (D250) of each second recess extension (D232) also defines a distally facing outer surface (D254) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D214). In the example shown, the outer surface (D254) of each second recess extension (D232) is rounded in the lateral direction. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D214) and / or by rounding in the lateral direction, the outer surface (D254) of each second recess extension (D232) can have a substantially non-traumatic configuration, such that each outer surface (D254) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D254). For example, each outer surface (D254) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D214).

[0046] The body (D250) of each second recess extension (D232) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D256) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D214). The top surface (D256) may be positioned above the platform (D214) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surfaces (D246a, D246b). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D256) may be positioned above the platform (D214) at a height lower than the height of the top surfaces (D246a, D246b). In the example shown, the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232) has a larger surface area than the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b). If such a distal first recess extension (D230b) is used instead of the corresponding second recess extension (D232), the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232) can extend further distally than the top surface (D246b) of the distal first recess extension (D230b). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b), the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b). For example, if such a distal first recess extension (D230b) is used instead of the corresponding second recess extension (D232), the further distal extension of the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232) compared to the top surface (D246b) of the distal first recess extension (D230b) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertically aligned with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D210).

[0047] As noted above, each third recess extension (D234) laterally spans the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D220) and is located at or near the distal end of the corresponding inner and middle row farthest recess (D220). Each third recess extension (D234) includes a generally J-shaped body (D260) defining proximal and distal nail leg receiving portions (D262a, D262b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within the corresponding farthest inner and middle row recesses (D220). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D262a, D262b) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding storage recess (D220) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the storage recess (D220) by the nail driver.

[0048] The body (D260) of each third recess extension (D234) also defines a distally facing outer surface (D264) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D214). In the example shown, the outer surface (D264) of each third recess extension (D234) is rounded in the lateral direction. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D214) and / or by rounding in the lateral direction, the outer surface (D264) of each third recess extension (D234) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration, such that each outer surface (D264) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D264). For example, each outer surface (D264) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D214). Since each third recess extension (D234) laterally spans the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D220), each outer surface (D264) can be configured to lift the portion of such tissue that is aligned with both the corresponding inner and middle rows of the recess (D220), and this lifting is performed substantially simultaneously with lifting the portion of such tissue aligned with the corresponding outer row of the recess (D220) through the outer surface (D254) of the corresponding second recess extension (D232).

[0049] The body (D260) of each third recess extension (D234) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D266) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D214). The top surface (D266) may be positioned above the platform (D214) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surfaces (D246a, D246b). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D266) may be positioned above the platform (D214) at a height lower than the height of the top surfaces (D246a, D246b). In the example shown, the top surface (D266) of each third recess extension (D234) has a larger surface area than the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b). If a pair of such distal first recess extensions (D230b) are used instead of the corresponding third recess extensions (D234), the top surface (D266) of each third recess extension (D234) can extend further distally than the top surface (D246b) of the pair of distal first recess extensions (D230b). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b), the top surface (D266) of each third recess extension (D234) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surfaces (D246a, D246b) of each first recess extension (D230a, D230b). For example, if a pair of such distal first recess extensions (D230b) are used instead of the corresponding third recess extension (D234), the further distal extension of the top surface (D266) of each third recess extension (D234) compared to the top surface (D246b) of the pair of distal first recess extensions (D230b) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertically aligned with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D210).

[0050] Since each third recess extension (D234) laterally spans the corresponding inner and intermediate drain recesses (D220), the surface area of ​​the top surface (D266) of each third recess extension (D234) can also be larger than the surface area of ​​the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232). By having a larger surface area compared to the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232), the top surface (D256) of each second recess extension (D232) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160).

[0051] Although each third recess extension (D234) is shown to laterally span the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D220), each third recess extension (D234) may alternatively laterally span the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D220), and / or may laterally span all three corresponding discharge recesses (D220).

[0052] B. Second Example of a Staple Cartridge with Enlarged Distal Pocket Extensions FIG. 12A portion of another example of a staple cartridge (D310) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D310) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D310) of this example includes a cartridge body (D312) having an upward-facing platform (D314), an elongated slot (D318) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D312) and opening upward through the platform (D314) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D320) extending through the platform (D314) on each side of the blade slot (D318). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D320) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D318) and pass through the upper platform (D314), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D318). Each recess (D320) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D312), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D312). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D312) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0053] The staple cartridge (D310) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D330a, D330b, D332, D334), which extend upward from the platform (D314) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D320), such that each cartridge recess (D320) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D330a, D330b, D332, D334). Any or more of the recess extensions (D330a, D330b, D332, D334) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D310) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D310) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as the staple leg (D126) leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D320) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D330a, D330b, D332, D334) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D310).

[0054] In the example shown, the plurality of recess extensions (D330a, D330b, D332, D334) include a plurality of first recess extensions (D330a, D330b) having a first configuration, a plurality of second recess extensions (D332) having a second configuration different from the first configuration, and a plurality of third recess extensions (D334) having a third configuration different from the first and second configurations. The first recess extensions (D330a, D330b) include a proximal first recess extension (D330a) located at or near the proximal end of each recess (D320) in each row, and also include a distal first recess extension (D330b) located at or near the distal end of each recess (D320) in each row, except for the distalmost recess (D320) in each row. In this respect, the second recess extension (D332) is located at or near the distal end of the outermost recess (D320) of the outer row, and the third recess extension (D334) is located at or near the distal end of the inner and middle recesses (D320), such that each third recess extension (D334) laterally spans two rows of recesses (D320) on the corresponding side of the knife slot (D318) (e.g., the corresponding inner and middle rows of recesses (D320)).

[0055] As shown in the figure, each first recess extension (D330a, D330b) includes a generally U-shaped body (D340a, D340b) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D342a, D342b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within the corresponding recess (D320). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D342a, D342b) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D320) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D320) by a nail driver. The body (D340a) of each proximal first recess extension (D330a) further defines a proximal-facing outer surface (D344a) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D314), while the body (D340b) of each distal first recess extension (D330b) further defines a distal-facing outer surface (D344b) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D314). The body (D340a, D340b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D346a, D346b) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D314). The top surfaces (D346a, D346b) can be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D314).

[0056] Each second recess extension (D332) includes a generally U-shaped body (D350) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D352) for receiving a corresponding leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding distal outer discharge recess (D320). In this respect, the dimensions and configuration of each nail leg receiving portion (D352) may be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding discharge recess (D320) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the discharge recess (D320) by a nail driver. The body (D350) of each second recess extension (D332) also defines a distally facing outer surface (D354) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D314). In the example shown, the outer surface (D354) of each second recess extension (D332) is rounded in the longitudinal direction. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D314) and / or by rounding in the longitudinal direction, the outer surface (D354) of each second recess extension (D332) can have a substantially non-traumatic configuration, such that each outer surface (D354) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D354). For example, each outer surface (D354) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D314).

[0057] The body (D350) of each second recess extension (D332) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D356) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D314). The top surface (D356) may be positioned above the platform (D314) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surfaces (D346a, D346b). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D356) may be positioned above the platform (D314) at a height lower than the height of the top surfaces (D346a, D346b). In the example shown, the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332) has a larger surface area than the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b). If such a distal first recess extension (D330b) is used instead of the corresponding second recess extension (D332), the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332) can extend further distally than the top surface (D346b) of the distal first recess extension (D330b). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b), the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b). For example, if such a distal first recess extension (D330b) is used instead of the corresponding second recess extension (D332), the further distal extension of the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332) compared to the top surface (D346b) of the distal first recess extension (D330b) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertically aligned with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D310).

[0058] As noted above, each third recess extension (D334) laterally spans the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D320) and is located at or near the distal end of the corresponding inner and middle row farthest recess (D320). Each third recess extension (D334) includes a generally L-shaped body (D360) defining proximal and distal nail leg receiving portions (D362a, D362b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within the corresponding farthest inner and middle row recesses (D320). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D362a, D362b) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding storage recess (D320) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the storage recess (D320) by the nail driver.

[0059] The body (D360) of each third recess extension (D334) also defines a distally facing outer surface (D364) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D314). In the example shown, the outer surface (D364) of each third recess extension (D334) is rounded in the longitudinal direction. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D314) and / or by rounding in the longitudinal direction, the outer surface (D364) of each third recess extension (D334) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration, such that each outer surface (D364) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D364). For example, each outer surface (D364) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D314). Since each third recess extension (D334) laterally spans the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D320), each outer surface (D364) can be configured to lift the portion of such tissue that is aligned with both the corresponding inner and middle rows of the recess (D320), and this lifting is performed substantially simultaneously with lifting the portion of such tissue that is aligned with the corresponding outer row of the recess (D320) through the outer surface (D354) of the corresponding second recess extension (D332).

[0060] The body (D360) of each third recess extension (D334) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D366) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D314). The top surface (D366) may be positioned above the platform (D314) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surfaces (D346a, D346b). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D366) may be positioned above the platform (D314) at a height lower than the height of the top surfaces (D346a, D346b). In the example shown, the top surface (D366) of each third recess extension (D334) has a larger surface area than the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b). If a pair of such distal first recess extensions (D330b) are used instead of the corresponding third recess extensions (D334), the top surface (D366) of each third recess extension (D334) can extend further distally than the top surface (D346b) of the pair of distal first recess extensions (D330b). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b), the top surface (D366) of each third recess extension (D334) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surfaces (D346a, D346b) of each first recess extension (D330a, D330b). For example, if a pair of such distal first recess extensions (D330b) are used instead of the corresponding third recess extension (D334), the further distal extension of the top surface (D366) of each third recess extension (D334) compared to the top surface (D346b) of the pair of distal first recess extensions (D330b) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertically aligned with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D310).

[0061] Since each third recess extension (D334) laterally spans the corresponding inner and intermediate drain recesses (D320), the surface area of ​​the top surface (D366) of each third recess extension (D334) can also be larger than the surface area of ​​the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332). By having a larger surface area compared to the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332), the top surface (D356) of each second recess extension (D332) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160).

[0062] Although each third recess extension (D334) is shown to laterally span the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D320), each third recess extension (D334) may alternatively laterally span the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D320), and / or may laterally span all three corresponding discharge recesses (D320).

[0063] C. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Undulating Upper Profile FIG. 13 to FIG. 14Another example of a staple cartridge (D410) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44). The staple cartridge (D410) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D410) of this example includes a cartridge body (D412) having an upward-facing platform (D414), an elongated slot (D418) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D412) and opening upward through the platform (D414) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D420) extending through the platform (D414) on each side of the blade slot (D418). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D420) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D418) and pass through the upper platform (D414), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D418). Each recess (D420) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D412), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D412). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D412) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0064] The staple cartridge (D410) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D430) that extend upward from the platform (D414) at or near the proximal and distal ends of at least some of the cartridge recesses (D420), such that at least some of the cartridge recesses (D420) are each longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D430), while some other cartridge recesses (D420) are only equipped with a corresponding proximal or distal recessed extension (D430), and some other cartridge recesses (D420) may be neither equipped with a corresponding proximal recessed extension nor with a distal recessed extension (D430). Any or more of the recess extensions (D430) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D410) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D410) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D420) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recessed extensions (D430) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D410). As shown, each recessed extension (D430) includes an upward-facing top surface (D446) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D414). The top surface (D446) may be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D414).

[0065] The staple cartridge (D410) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of first and second wedges (D432, D434) extending upward from the platform (D414) on each side of the blade slot (D418), such that each wedge (D432, D434) laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D420) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer rows of cartridge recesses (D420)) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D418). In the example shown, the first and second wedges (D432, D434) are arranged in a longitudinally alternating manner such that the wedges (D432, D434) cooperate with each other and with the platform (D414) to provide a generally undulating (e.g., wavy) upper profile for the staple cartridge (D410) when viewed from the side.

[0066] Each first wedge (D432) includes a generally triangular body (D450) that defines one or more openings (D451) covering the corresponding recess (D420) for receiving a corresponding nail (86) through which it passes. The body (D450) of each first wedge (D432) also defines one or more nail leg receiving portions (D452) at or near the proximal and distal ends of the recess (D420) lacking the recess extension (D430) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably received within the corresponding recess (D420). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D452) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D420) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D420) by the nail driver. The body (D450) of each first wedge (D432) also defines an upwardly and / or proximally facing top surface (D456) that tapers and / or bends upward and distally from the platform (D414) to a peak (D458). The peak (D458) can be positioned above the platform (D414) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D446). In some other forms, the peak (D458) can be positioned above the platform (D414) at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D446).

[0067] In the example shown, a pair of non-invasive distal ramps (D459) taper upwards and proximally from the platform (D414) and / or curve to the peak (D458) of each distal first wedge (D432) for gently lifting tissue upwards relative to the platform (D414). As shown, at least one such distal ramp (D459) may at least partially laterally cross the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D420) for lifting portions of such tissue aligned with both the corresponding inner and middle rows of the recesses (D420), and lifts portions of such tissue aligned with the corresponding outer row of the recesses (D420) via another distal ramp (D459) on the same side of the slit (D418), while the lifting is performed substantially simultaneously.

[0068] Each second wedge (D434) includes a generally triangular body (D460) that defines one or more openings (D461) covering the corresponding recess (D420) for receiving a corresponding nail (86) through which it passes. The body (D460) of each second wedge (D434) also defines one or more nail leg receiving portions (D462) at or near the proximal and distal ends of the recess (D420) lacking the recess extension (D430) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably received within the corresponding recess (D420). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D462) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D420) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D420) by the nail driver. The body (D460) of each second wedge (D434) also defines an upwardly and / or distally facing top surface (D466) that tapers upward and proximally from the platform (D414) and / or curves to a peak (D468). In some types, the top surface (D466) may be oriented obliquely relative to the platform (D414) at the same angle as the top surface (D456) is oriented obliquely relative to the platform (D414). Alternatively, the peak (D468) may be positioned above the platform (D414) at a height substantially the same as the top surface (D446). In some other configurations, the peak (D468) may be positioned above the platform (D414) at a height lower than the top surface (D446).

[0069] In the example shown, the peak (D468) of each second wedge (D434) coincides with the peak (D458) of the longitudinally adjacent first wedge (D432) on the relatively proximal side, while each second wedge (D434) is longitudinally spaced from the longitudinally adjacent first wedge (D432) on the relatively distal side by a portion of a platform (D414) including a pair of inner and outer drain recesses (D420). In some other forms, the peak (D468) of each second wedge (D434) may be longitudinally separated from the peak (D458) of the longitudinally adjacent first wedge (D432) on the relatively proximal side (e.g., by means of a raised platform extending between the two peaks (D458, D468) and having the same height as the two peaks (D458, D468), and / or each second wedge (D434) may not be longitudinally separated from the longitudinally adjacent first wedge (D432) on the relatively distal side (e.g., by means of direct connection with the longitudinally adjacent first wedge (D432) on the relatively distal side).

[0070] By extending upward to the peaks (D458, D468) and laterally across the corresponding three rows of recesses (D420), the top surface (D456, D466) of each wedge (D432, D434) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D446) of each recess extension (D430). For example, the lateral span of each wedge (D432, D434) across the corresponding three-row recess (D420) allows the longitudinally adjacent areas of each peak (D458, D468) and / or the corresponding wedge (D432, D434) to contact substantially all the adhesive (D166) that laterally spans the reinforcing pad body (D164) at the corresponding longitudinal position along the reinforcing pad body (D164), and thereby provides stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at such longitudinal positions. As a more specific example, the lateral span of each farthest first wedge (D432) across the corresponding three rows of recesses (D420) allows the peak (D458) of each farthest first wedge (D432) to contact substantially all the adhesive (D166) laterally across the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D410).

[0071] Although each wedge (D432, D434) is shown to laterally span all three corresponding discharge recesses (D420), each wedge (D432, D434) may alternatively laterally span only the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D420), or only the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D420).

[0072] It should be understood that specific locations of the wedges (D432, D434), including specific locations of the peaks (D458, D468), can be selected to achieve both the desired amount of tissue compression and the desired adhesion of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D410). For example, specific locations of the wedges (D432, D434), including specific locations of the peaks (D458, D468), can be selected to correspond to the location of the adhesive (D166) on the reinforcing pad body (D164), such that the wedges (D434, D434) achieve the desired adhesion of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) to the staple cartridge (D410), while limiting any increase in tissue compression that may be caused by the wedges (D432, D434) to the area where the wedges (D434, D434) are present.

[0073] D. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Dome-Shaped Contact Pads FIG. 15 A portion of another example of a staple cartridge (D510) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D510) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D510) of this example includes a cartridge body (D512) having an upward-facing platform (D514), an elongated slot (D518) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D512) and opening upward through the platform (D514) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D520) extending through the platform (D514) on each side of the blade slot (D518). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D520) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D518) and pass through the upper platform (D514), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D518). Each recess (D520) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D512), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D512). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D512) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0074] The staple cartridge (D510) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D530) that extend upward from the platform (D514) at or near the proximal and distal ends of at least some of the cartridge recesses (D520), such that at least some of the cartridge recesses (D520) are each longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D530), while some other cartridge recesses (D520) are only equipped with a corresponding proximal or distal recessed extension (D530). Any or more of the recess extensions (D530) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D510) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D510) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D520) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recessed extensions (D530) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D510). As shown, each recessed extension (D530) includes an upward-facing top surface (D546) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D514). The top surface (D546) may be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D514).

[0075] The staple cartridge (D510) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of contact pads (D532) extending upward from the platform (D514) on each side of the blade slot (D518), such that each contact pad (D532) laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D520) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D518) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer row cartridge recesses (D520)). Although only one contact pad (D532) is shown, it should be understood that the plurality of contact pads (D532) may be spaced apart from each other along the length of the staple cartridge (D510) on each side of the blade slot (D518).

[0076] Each contact pad (D532) includes a generally dome-shaped body (D550) that defines one or more openings (D551) covering the corresponding recess (D520) for receiving a corresponding nail (86) passing through therethrough. The body (D550) of each contact pad (D532) also defines one or more nail leg receiving portions (D552) at or near the proximal and distal ends of the recess (D520) lacking the recess extension (D530) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably received within the corresponding recess (D520). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D552) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D520) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D520) by the nail driver. The body (D550) of each contact pad (D532) also defines an upward-facing hemispherical top surface (D556) that curves convexly upward and radially inward from the platform (D514) to a peak (D558). The peak (D558) can be positioned above the platform (D514) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D546). In some other forms, the peak (D558) can be positioned above the platform (D514) at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D546).

[0077] By extending upward to the peak (D558) and laterally across the corresponding three rows of recesses (D520), the top surface (D556) of each contact pad (D532) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D546) of each recess extension (D530). For example, the lateral span of each contact pad (D532) across the corresponding three-row recess (D520) allows the longitudinally adjacent areas and / or laterally adjacent areas of each peak (D558) and / or the corresponding contact pad (D532) to contact at least the laterally intermediate area of ​​the adhesive (D166) that laterally spans the reinforcing pad body (D164) at the corresponding longitudinal position along the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at such longitudinal positions.

[0078] Although each contact pad (D532) is shown to laterally span all three corresponding discharge recesses (D520), each contact pad (D532) may alternatively laterally span only the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D520), or only the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D520).

[0079] It should be understood that specific locations of the contact pad (D532), including specific locations of the peak (D558), can be selected to achieve both the desired amount of tissue compression and the desired adhesion of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D510). For example, specific locations of the contact pad (D532), including specific locations of the peak (D558), can be selected to correspond to the location of the adhesive (D166) on the reinforcing pad body (D164), such that the contact pad (D532) enables the desired adhesion of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) to the staple cartridge (D510), while limiting any increase in tissue compression that may be caused by the contact pad (D532) to the area where the contact pad (D532) is present.

[0080] E. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Tissue-Stabilizing Wedges FIG. 16 to FIG. 17 Another example of a staple cartridge (D610) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D610) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D610) of this example includes a cartridge body (D612) having an upward-facing platform (D614), an elongated slot (D618) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D612) and opening upward through the platform (D614) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D620) extending through the platform (D614) on each side of the blade slot (D618). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D620) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D618) and pass through the upper platform (D614), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D618). Each recess (D620) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D612), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D612). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D612) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0081] The staple cartridge (D610) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D630) that extend upward from the platform (D614) at or near the proximal and distal ends of at least some of the cartridge recesses (D620), such that at least some of the cartridge recesses (D620) are each longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D630), while some other cartridge recesses (D620) are only equipped with a corresponding proximal or distal recessed extension (D630). Any or more of the recess extensions (D630) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D610) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D610) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D620) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recessed extensions (D630) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strips (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D610). As shown, each recessed extension (D630) includes an upward-facing top surface (D646) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D614). The top surface (D646) may be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D614).

[0082] The staple cartridge (D610) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of first and second wedges (D632, D634) extending upward from the platform (D614) on each side of the blade slot (D618), such that each wedge (D632, D634) laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D620) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer row cartridge recesses (D620)) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D618). In the example shown, the first wedge (D632) is arranged at or near the distal end of the platform (D614), while the second wedges (D634) are each arranged proximal to the first wedge (D632).

[0083] Each first wedge (D632) includes a generally triangular body (D650) that defines one or more openings (D651) covering the corresponding recess (D620) for receiving a corresponding nail (86) through which it passes. The body (D650) of each first wedge (D632) also defines one or more nail leg receiving portions (D652) at or near the proximal and distal ends of the recess (D620) lacking the recess extension (D630) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably received within the corresponding recess (D620). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D652) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D620) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D620) by the nail driver. The body (D650) of each first wedge (D632) also defines an upwardly and / or proximally facing top surface (D656) that tapers upward and / or curves distally from the platform (D614) to a peak (D658). The peak (D658) can be positioned above the platform (D614) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D646). In some other forms, the peak (D658) can be positioned above the platform (D614) at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D646).

[0084] In the example shown, a pair of non-invasive distal ramps (D659) taper upwards and proximally from the platform (D614) and / or curve to the peak (D658) of each first wedge (D632) for gently lifting tissue upwards relative to the platform (D614). As shown, at least one such distal ramp (D659) may at least partially laterally cross the corresponding inner and middle row recesses (D620) for lifting portions of such tissue aligned with both the corresponding inner and middle rows of the recesses (D620), and lifts portions of such tissue aligned with the corresponding outer row of the recesses (D620) via another distal ramp (D659) on the same side of the slit (D618), while the lifting is performed substantially simultaneously.

[0085] Each second wedge (D634) includes a generally triangular body (D660) that defines one or more openings (D661) covering the corresponding recess (D620) for receiving a corresponding nail (86) through which it passes. The body (D660) of each second wedge (D634) also defines one or more nail leg receiving portions (D662) at or near the proximal and distal ends of the recess (D620) lacking the recess extension (D630) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably received within the corresponding recess (D620). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D662) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding storage recess (D620) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the storage recess (D620) by the nail driver.

[0086] The body (D660) of each second wedge (D634) further defines a proximal end surface (D664) that extends substantially orthogonally from the platform (D614) to the peak (D668) relative to the platform (D614). By extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D614), the end surface (D664) of each second wedge (D634) can be configured to stabilize the tissue being cut and sutured, for example, by inhibiting movement (e.g., "flow") of the tissue being cut and sutured. For example, the end surface (D664) of each second wedge (D634) can prevent such tissue from moving distally during the distal translation of the firing beam (46), for example, during the firing stroke.

[0087] The body (D660) of each second wedge (D634) further defines an upwardly and / or distally facing top surface (D666), which tapers and / or curves upward and proximally from the platform (D614) to a corresponding peak (D668). In some embodiments, the top surface (D666) may be oriented obliquely relative to the platform (D614) at the same angle as the top surface (D656) is oriented obliquely relative to the platform (D614). Alternatively, the peak (D668) may be positioned above the platform (D614) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D646). In some other embodiments, the peak (D668) may be positioned above the platform (D614) at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D646).

[0088] In the example shown, each second wedge (D634) is longitudinally spaced from the longitudinally adjacent second wedge (D634) by a portion of the platform (D614) comprising three pairs of inner and outer outlet recesses (D620), while the farthest second wedge (D634) is longitudinally spaced from the corresponding first wedge (D632) by a portion of the platform (D614) comprising a pair of inner and outer outlet recesses (D620). In some other forms, each second wedge (D634) may not be longitudinally spaced from the longitudinally adjacent second wedge (D634) (e.g., by direct connection with the longitudinally adjacent second wedge (D634), and / or the farthest second wedge (D634) may not be longitudinally spaced from the corresponding first wedge (D632) (e.g., by direct connection with the corresponding first wedge (D632).

[0089] By extending upward to the peaks (D658, D668) and laterally across the corresponding three rows of recesses (D620), the top surface (D656, D666) of each wedge (D632, D634) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D646) of each recess extension (D630). For example, the lateral span of each wedge (D632, D634) across the corresponding three-row recess (D620) allows the longitudinally adjacent areas of each peak (D658, D668) and / or the corresponding wedge (D632, D634) to contact substantially all the adhesive (D166) that laterally spans the reinforcing pad body (D164) at the corresponding longitudinal position along the reinforcing pad body (D164), and thereby provides stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at such longitudinal positions. As a more specific example, the lateral span of each first wedge (D632) across the corresponding three-row recess (D620) allows the peak (D658) of each first wedge (D632) to contact substantially all the adhesive (D166) that laterally spans the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D610).

[0090] Although each wedge (D632, D634) is shown to laterally span all three corresponding discharge recesses (D620), each wedge (D632, D634) may alternatively laterally span only the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D620), or only the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D620).

[0091] It should be understood that specific locations of the wedges (D632, D634), including specific locations of the peaks (D658, D668), can be selected to achieve both the desired amount of tissue compression and the desired adhesion of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D610). For example, specific locations of the wedges (D632, D634), including specific locations of the peaks (D658, D668), can be selected to correspond to the location of the adhesive (D166) on the reinforcing pad body (D164), such that the wedges (D634, D634) achieve the desired adhesion of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) to the staple cartridge (D610), while limiting any increase in tissue compression that may be caused by the wedges (D632, D634) to the area where the wedges (D634, D634) are present.

[0092] F. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Distal Contact Pads FIG. 18 to FIG. 20 Another example of a staple cartridge (D710) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D710) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D710) of this example includes a cartridge body (D712) having an upward-facing platform (D714), an elongated slot (D718) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D712) and opening upward through the platform (D714) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D720) extending through the platform (D714) on each side of the blade slot (D718). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D720) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D718) and pass through the upper platform (D714), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D718). Each recess (D720) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D712), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D712). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D712) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0093] The staple cartridge (D710) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D730) extending upward from the platform (D714) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D720), such that each cartridge recess (D720) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D730). Any or more of the recessed extensions (D730) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D710) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D710) equipped with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the legs (D126) of the staple (86) as the legs (D126) leave the corresponding cartridge recess (D720) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recessed extensions (D730) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D710). As shown, each recessed extension (D730) includes an upward-facing top surface (D746) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D714). The top surface (D746) may be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D714).

[0094] The staple cartridge (D710) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of a pair of distal contact pads (D732) extending upward from the platform (D714) on each side of the blade slot (D718), such that each distal contact pad (D732) at least partially laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D720) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D718) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer row cartridge recesses (D720)). As shown, each distal contact pad (D732) is positioned at or near the distal end of the platform (D714).

[0095] Each distal contact pad (D732) includes a generally angled body (D750) defining a distally facing end surface (D754) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D714). In the example shown, the end surface (D754) of each distal contact pad (D732) tapers downward and distally from the distal end of the platform (D714) and / or bends. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D714), the end surface (D754) of each distal contact pad (D732) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration, such that each end surface (D754) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the end surface (D754). For example, each end surface (D754) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D714). Since each distal contact pad (D732) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer drain recesses (D720), each end surface (D754) can be configured to elevate the portion of such tissue aligned with all three corresponding drain recesses (D720).

[0096] The body (D750) of each distal contact pad (D732) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D756) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D714). The top surface (D756) may be positioned above the platform (D714) at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D746). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D756) may be positioned above the platform (D714) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D746). In the example shown, the top surface (D756) of each distal contact pad (D732) has a larger surface area than the top surface (D746) of each recess extension (D730). The top surface (D756) of each distal contact pad (D732) may also extend further distally than the top surface (D746) of the most distal recess extension (D730). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surface (D746) of the farthest recess extension (D730), the top surface (D756) of each distal contact pad (D732) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D746) of each recess extension (D730). For example, the further distal extension of the top surface (D756) of each distal contact pad (D732) compared to the top surface (D746) of each distal recess extension (D730) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertical alignment of the top surface (D756) with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D710).

[0097] Although each distal contact pad (D732) is shown as laterally spanning at least partially all three corresponding discharge recesses (D720), each distal contact pad (D732) may alternatively laterally span only the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D720), or only the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D720).

[0098] G. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Distal and Proximal Contact Pads FIG. 21 to FIG. 23Another example of a staple cartridge (D810) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D810) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D810) of this example includes a cartridge body (D812) having an upward-facing platform (D814), an elongated slot (D818) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D812) and opening upward through the platform (D814) ​​for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D820) extending through the platform (D814) ​​on each side of the blade slot (D818). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D820) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D818) and pass through the upper platform (D814), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D818). Each recess (D820) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D812), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D812). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D812) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0099] The staple cartridge (D810) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D830) extending upward from the platform (D814) ​​at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D820), such that each cartridge recess (D820) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D830). Any or more of the recessed extensions (D830) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D810) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D810) equipped with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the legs (D126) of the staple (86) as the legs (D126) leave the corresponding cartridge recess (D820) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recessed extensions (D830) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D810).

[0100] As shown, each recess extension (D830) includes a generally U-shaped body (D840) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D842) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding recess (D820). In this respect, the dimensions and configuration of each nail leg receiving portion (D842) are configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D820) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D820) by a nail driver. The body (D840) of each recess extension (D830) also defines an outer surface (D844) facing proximal or distal relative to the platform (D814). The body (D840) of each first recess extension (D830) also defines an upward-facing top surface (D846) that extends substantially parallel to the platform (D814). The top surface (D846) can be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D814).

[0101] The staple cartridge (D810) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of a pair of distal contact pads (D832) extending upward from the platform (D814) ​​on each side of the blade slot (D818), such that each distal contact pad (D832) at least partially laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D820) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D818) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer row cartridge recesses (D820)). As shown, each distal contact pad (D832) is positioned at or near the distal end of the platform (D814). The staple cartridge (D810) of this example also includes a plurality of additional raised features in the form of a pair of proximal contact pads (D834) extending upward from the platform (D814) ​​on each side of the blade slot (D818), such that each proximal contact pad (D834) at least partially laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D820) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D818) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle, and outer row cartridge recesses (D820)). As shown, each proximal contact pad (D834) is positioned at or near the proximal end of the platform (D814).

[0102] Each distal contact pad (D832) includes a generally angled body (D850) defining a distally facing end surface (D854) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D814). In the example shown, the end surface (D854) of each distal contact pad (D832) tapers downward and distally from the distal end of the platform (D814) ​​and / or bends. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D814), the end surface (D854) of each distal contact pad (D832) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration, such that each end surface (D854) avoids causing trauma to the tissue contacted by the end surface (D854). For example, each end surface (D854) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D814). Since each distal contact pad (D832) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer drain recesses (D820), each end surface (D854) can be configured to elevate the portion of such tissue aligned with all three corresponding drain recesses (D820).

[0103] The body (D850) of each distal contact pad (D832) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D856) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D814). The top surface (D856) may be positioned above the platform (D814) ​​at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D846). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D856) may be positioned above the platform (D814) ​​at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D846). In the example shown, the top surface (D856) of each distal contact pad (D832) has a larger surface area than the top surface (D846) of each recess extension (D830). The top surface (D856) of each distal contact pad (D832) may also extend further distally than the top surface (D846) of the most distal recess extension (D830). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further distally than the top surface (D846) of the farthest recess extension (D830), the top surface (D856) of each distal contact pad (D832) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D846) of each recess extension (D830). For example, the further distal extension of the top surface (D856) of each distal contact pad (D832) compared to the top surface (D846) of each distal recess extension (D830) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertical alignment of the top surface (D856) with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D810).

[0104] Each proximal contact pad (D834) includes a generally planar body (D860) defining one or more openings (D861) covering a corresponding recess (D820) for receiving a corresponding pin (86) through which it passes. The body (D860) of each proximal contact pad (D834) also defines an upward-facing top surface (D866) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D814). The top surface (D866) may be positioned above the platform (D814) ​​at a height lower than the height of the top surface (D846). In some other configurations, the top surface (D866) may be positioned above the platform (D814) ​​at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D846). Alternatively, the top surface (D866) may be positioned above the platform (D814) ​​at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D856). In the example shown, the top surface (D866) of each proximal contact pad (D834) has a larger surface area than the top surface (D846) of each recess extension (D830). The top surface (D866) of each proximal contact pad (D834) may also extend further to the side than the top surface (D846) of the nearest recess extension (D830). By having a larger surface area and / or extending further to the side compared to the top surface (D846) of the nearest recess extension (D830), the top surface (D866) of each proximal contact pad (D834) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160). For example, the closer proximal extension of the top surface (D866) of each proximal contact pad (D834) compared to the top surface (D846) of each nearest-side recess extension (D830) allows for more adhesive (D166) at the proximal end (D170) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), and thereby provides a stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the proximal end of the staple cartridge (D810).

[0105] Although each contact pad (D832, D834) is shown as laterally spanning at least partially all three corresponding discharge recesses (D820), each contact pad (D832, D834) may alternatively laterally span only the corresponding inner and middle discharge recesses (D820), or only the corresponding middle and outer discharge recesses (D820).

[0106] H. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Adhesive Patterned Contact Pads FIG. 24 to FIG. 27Another example of a staple cartridge (D910) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D910) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D910) of this example includes a cartridge body (D912) having an upward-facing platform (D914), an elongated slot (D918) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D912) and opening upward through the platform (D914) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D920) extending through the platform (D914) on each side of the blade slot (D918). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D920) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D918) and pass through the upper platform (D914), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D918). Each recess (D920) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the lower side of the housing (D912), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D912). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D912) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the lower side of the nail driver.

[0107] The staple cartridge (D910) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D930) extending upward from the platform (D914) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D920), such that each cartridge recess (D920) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D930). Any or more of the recessed extensions (D930) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D910) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D910) equipped with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the legs (D126) of the staple (86) as the legs (D126) leave the corresponding cartridge recess (D920) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any or more of the recess extensions (D930) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strips (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D910). As shown, each recess extension (D930) includes an upward-facing top surface (D946) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D914). The top surface (D946) may be positioned at a substantially uniform first height (H1) above the platform (D914), such as... FIG. 27 As shown.

[0108] The staple cartridge (D910) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of a pair of elongated contact pads (D932) that extend upward from the platform (D914) on each side of the blade slot (D918) such that each contact pad (D932) at least partially laterally spans three rows of cartridge recesses (D920) on the corresponding side of the blade slot (D918) (e.g., corresponding inner, middle and outer row cartridge recesses (D920)).

[0109] Each contact pad (D932) includes a body (D950) that is generally patterned with an adhesive. More specifically, the body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) is shaped to substantially match the pattern of the adhesive (D166) of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160). For example, the outer periphery of each body (D950) may substantially follow the outer periphery of the corresponding adhesive strips (D182, D184, D186, D188), such that substantially all adhesives (D166) can be fitted within a horizontal envelope defined by the outer periphery of the corresponding body (D950), such as... FIG. 24As shown. The body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) defines a plurality of openings (D951) covering the corresponding recess (D920) for receiving the corresponding nail (86) through which it passes.

[0110] The body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) also defines an upward-facing top surface (D956) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D914). For example... FIG. 27 As shown, the top surface (D956) can be positioned above the platform (D914) at a second height (H2) below a first height (H1) of the top surface (D946). In some other configurations, the top surface (D956) can be positioned above the platform (D914) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surface (D946). In the example shown, the top surface (D956) of each contact pad (D932) has a larger surface area than the top surface (D946) of each recess extension (D930). The top surface (D956) of each contact pad (D932) may extend further to the farthest side than the top surface (D946) of the farthest recess extension (D930), closer to the side than the top surface (D946) of the nearest recess extension (D930), and / or extend further to the side and outward relative to the central axis of the housing (D912) than the top surface (D946) of the outer recess extension (D930). By having a larger surface area, extending further to the farthest side than the top surface (D946) of the farthest recess extension (D930), extending closer to the side than the top surface (D946) of the nearest recess extension (D930), and / or extending further to the side and outward than the top surface (D946) of the outer recess extension (D930), the top surface (D956) of each contact pad (D932) can be configured to provide improved contact with the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) at least relative to the top surface (D946) of each recess extension (D930). For example, the further distal extension of the top surface (D956) of each contact pad (D932) compared to the top surface (D946) of each distal recess extension (D930) allows for more adhesive (D166) vertical alignment of the top surface (D956) with the distal end (D172) of the reinforcing pad body (D164), thereby providing stronger local attachment of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) at the distal end of the staple cartridge (D910).

[0111] It should also be understood that the adhesive pattern shape of the body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) allows the top surface (D956) of each contact pad (D932) to be vertically aligned with substantially all the adhesive (D166) along the entire length of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160), thereby providing stronger adhesion of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160) along the entire length of the staple cartridge (D910).

[0112] While the shape of the body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) is based on the pattern of the adhesive (D166) of the reinforcing pad assembly (D160), it should be understood that the contact pad (D932) may also provide improved attachment of other types of reinforcing pad assemblies (such as reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112)) to the staple cartridge (D910). It should also be understood that the shape of the body (D950) of each contact pad (D932) may be based on the adhesive pattern of any other reinforcing pad assembly desired to be attached to the staple cartridge (D910).

[0113] IV. Examples of Cartridges with Distal Protrusions for Gripping Features A. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Distal Protrusions for Gripping Features Spanning Three Rows of Pockets FIG. 28Another example of a staple cartridge (D1010) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown). The staple cartridge (D1010) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1010) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1012) having an upward-facing multi-level platform (D1014), an elongated slot (D1018) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1012) and opening upward through the platform (D1014) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1020) extending through the platform (D1014) on each side of the blade slot (D1018). In this type, three longitudinal rows of cartridge recesses (D1020) are formed along each side of the blade slot (D1018) and through the upper platform (D1014), including an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the blade slot (D1018). Each recess (D1020) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1012), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1012). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1012) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0114] The multi-level platform (D1014) of this example includes a lower platform surface (D1014a) and an upper platform surface (D1014b), the lower platform surface spanning at least inner and intermediate discharge compartment recesses (D1020) on each side of the knife slot (D1018), and the upper platform surface being disposed along the distal region of at least outer discharge compartment recesses (D1020) on each side of the knife slot (D1018).

[0115] The staple cartridge (D1010) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1030a, D1030b, D1032), which extend upward from the platform (D1014) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1020), such that each cartridge recess (D1020) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1030a, D1030b, D1032). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1030a, D1030b, D1032) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1010) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1010) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as the staple leg (D126) leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1020) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1030a, D1030b, D1032) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1010).

[0116] In the example shown, the plurality of recess extensions (D1030a, D1030b, D1032) include a plurality of first recess extensions (D1030a, D1030b) having a first configuration and a plurality of second recess extensions (D1032) having a second configuration different from the first configuration. The first recess extensions (D1030a, D1030b) include a proximal first recess extension (D1030a) located at or near the proximal end of each recess (D1020) in each row, and also include a distal first recess extension (D1030b) located at or near the distal end of each recess (D1020) in each row, except for the distalmost recess (D1020) in each row. In this respect, the second recess extension (D1032) is located at or near the far end of the inner row, middle row and outer row of the farthest side recess (D1020), such that each second recess extension (D1032) laterally spans the three rows of recesses (D1020) on the corresponding side of the knife slot (D1018) (e.g., the corresponding inner row, middle row and outer row recesses (D1020)).

[0117] As shown in the figure, each first recess extension (D1030a, D1030b) includes a generally U-shaped body (D1040a, D1040b) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D1042a, D1042b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding recess (D1020). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D1042a, D1042b) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D1020) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D1020) by a nail driver. The body (D1040a) of each proximal first recess extension (D1030a) further defines a proximal-facing outer surface (D1044a) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D1014), while the body (D1040b) of each distal first recess extension (D1030b) further defines a distal-facing outer surface (D1044b) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D1014). The body (D1040a, D1040b) of each first recess extension (D1030a, D1030b) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D1046a, D1046b) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D1014). The top surfaces (D1046a, D1046b) can be positioned at a substantially uniform height above a reference surface of the platform (D1014) (e.g., either platform surface (D1014a, D1014b)).

[0118] As noted above, each second recess extension (D1032) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recess (D1020) and is positioned at or near the distal end of the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recess (D1020). Each second recess extension (D1032) includes a generally T-shaped body (D1060) defining a proximal stud accommodating portion and a pair of distal stud accommodating portions (D1062a, D1062b) for receiving the corresponding stud (D126) of a stud (86) slidably accommodated within the corresponding outer recess (D1020). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D1062a, D1062b) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D1020) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D1020) by the nail driver.

[0119] The body (D1060) of each second recess extension (D1032) further defines a distally facing outer surface (D1064) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D1014). In the example shown, the outer surface (D1064) of each second recess extension (D1032) is rounded in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the outer surface (D1064) of each second recess extension (D1032) may be rounded in the lateral direction, such as in a manner similar to the above. FIG. 11 As shown and described. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D1014) and / or rounded in the longitudinal and / or lateral directions, the outer surface (D1064) of each second recess extension (D1032) can have a substantially non-traumatic configuration, such that each outer surface (D1064) avoids trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D1064). For example, each outer surface (D1064) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D1014). Since each second recess extension (D1032) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer row recesses (D1020), each outer surface (D1064) can be configured to lift the portion of the recess (D1020) aligned with the corresponding inner, middle, and outer rows of the recess.

[0120] The body (D1060) of each second recess extension (D1032) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D1066) that extends substantially parallel to a reference surface of the platform (D1014) (e.g., either platform surface (D1014a, D1014b)). The top surface (D1066) may be positioned above the upper platform surface (D1014b) and / or above the lower platform surface (D1014a) at substantially the same height as the top surface (D1046a, D1046b). In some other embodiments, the top surface (D1066) may be positioned above the lower platform surface (D1014a) at a different height than the top surface (D1046a, D1046b).

[0121] Since each second recess extension (D1032) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recesses (D1020), the outer surface (1064) and top surface (D1066) of each second recess extension (D1032) provide a continuous, interacting anti-snagging surface to provide improved tissue lifting without snagging such tissue. By having a different profile from the first recess extensions (D1030a, 1030b), the second recess extensions (D1032) prevent unintentional over-grabbing of tissue while still maintaining the desired level of tissue grip.

[0122] B. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Distal Protrusions for Gripping Features Tilted in Multiple Directions FIG. 29 to FIG. 30 Another example of a staple cartridge (D1110) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D1110) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1110) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1112) having an upward-facing platform (D1114), an elongated slot (D1118) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1112) and opening upward through the platform (D1114) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1120) extending through the platform (D1114) on each side of the blade slot (D1118). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D1120) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D1118) and pass through the upper platform (D1114), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D1118). Each recess (D1120) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1112), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1112). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1112) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0123] The staple cartridge (D1110) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1130a, D1130b, D1132), which extend upward from the platform (D1114) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1120), such that each cartridge recess (D1120) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1130a, D1130b, D1132). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1130a, D1130b, D1132) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1110) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1110) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1120) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1130a, D1130b, D1132) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1110).

[0124] In the example shown, the plurality of recess extensions (D1130a, D1130b, D1132) include a plurality of first recess extensions (D1130a, D1130b) having a first configuration and a plurality of second recess extensions (D1132) having a second configuration different from the first configuration. The first recess extensions (D1130a, D1130b) include a proximal first recess extension (D1130a) located at or near the proximal end of each recess (D1120) in each row, and also include a distal first recess extension (D1130b) located at or near the distal end of each recess (D1120) in each row, except for the farthest recesses (D1120) in the inner and outer rows. In this respect, the second recess extension (D1132) is located at or near the far end of the inner and outer row of the farthest side recess (D1120), such that each second recess extension (D1132) laterally spans the three rows of recesses (D1120) on the corresponding side of the knife slot (D1118) (e.g., the corresponding inner row, middle row and outer row recesses (D1120)).

[0125] As shown in the figure, each first recess extension (D1130a, D1130b) includes a generally U-shaped body (D1140a, D1140b) defining a nail leg receiving portion (D1142a, D1142b) for receiving a corresponding nail leg (D126) of a nail (86) slidably housed within a corresponding recess (D1120). In this respect, the dimensions and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D1142a, D1142b) can be configured to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D1120) out of the corresponding recess (D1120) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D1120) by a nail driver. The body (D1140a) of each proximal first recess extension (D1130a) further defines a proximal-facing outer surface (D1144a) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D1114), while the body (D1140b) of each distal first recess extension (D1130b) further defines a distal-facing outer surface (D1144b) extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D1114). The body (D1140a, D1140b) of each first recess extension (D1130a, D1130b) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D1146a, D1146b) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D1114). The top surfaces (D1146a, D1146b) can be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D1114).

[0126] As noted above, each second recess extension (D1132) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recesses (D1120) and is positioned at or near the distal end of the corresponding inner and outer recess (D1120). Each second recess extension (D1132) includes a body (D1160) defining a pair of nail leg receiving portions (D1162) for receiving corresponding nail legs (D126) of nails (86) slidably accommodated within the corresponding outer recesses (D1120). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D1162) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D1120) out of the corresponding storage recess (D1120) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the storage recess (D1120) by the nail driver.

[0127] The body (D1160) of each second pit extension (D1132) further defines a proximal outer surface (D1163) extending substantially orthogonally to the platform (D1114), and a distal outer surface (D1164) extending substantially obliquely to the platform (D1114). In the example shown, the outer surface (D1164) of each second pit extension (D1132) tapers proximally in a laterally outward direction such that the laterally inward end of the outer surface (D1164) is distal to the laterally outward end of the outer surface (D1164). By extending substantially obliquely to the platform (D1114) and / or tapering proximally in a laterally outward direction, the distal outer surface (D1164) of each second pit extension (D1132) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration such that each outer surface (D1164) avoids trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D1164). For example, each outer surface (D1164) may define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D1114). Since each second recess extension (D1132) laterally spans the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recesses (D1120), each outer surface (D1164) may be configured to lift portions of such tissue aligned with the corresponding inner, middle, and outer recesses (D1120). By extending substantially orthogonally relative to the platform (D1114), the proximal-facing outer surface (D1163) of each second recess extension (D1132) may be configured to apply a higher drag force and / or friction force to the tissues (T1, T2) than that applied to the tissues (T1, T2) by the corresponding distal-facing outer surface (D1164), thereby providing a higher pull-out load than the insertion load.

[0128] The body (D1160) of each second recess extension (D1132) further defines an upward-facing top surface (D1166) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D1114). In the example shown, the top surface (D1166) of each second recess extension (D1132) tapers downward in a laterally outward direction such that the laterally inward end of the top surface (D1166) is above the laterally outward end of the top surface (D1166). The laterally inward end of the top surface (D1166) may be positioned above the platform (D1114) at a height substantially the same as the height of the top surfaces (D1146a, D1146b). In some other embodiments, the laterally inward end of the top surface (D1166) may be positioned above the platform (D1114) at a different height than the top surfaces (D1146a, D1146b). For example, the laterally inward end of the top surface (D1166) may be positioned above the platform (D1114) at a height higher than the top surface (D1146a, D1146b), such that the distal end of the anvil (44) may contact the laterally inward end of the top surface (D1166) before contacting the top surface (D1146a, D1146b) during the closing of the end effector (40), thereby generating an increased load at the distal end in that position compared to the proximal end in that position under at least partially clamped proximity. Although the laterally outward end of the top surface (D1166) is shown positioned above the platform (D1114), the laterally outward end of the top surface (D1166) may alternatively be positioned at the same height as the platform (D1114).

[0129] In some configurations, the proximal outer surface (D1163) and / or the top surface (D1166) of each second recess extension (D1132) may be textured and / or include isolated raised features to improve frictional retention of tissues (T1, T2). For example, the proximal outer surface (D1163) of each second recess extension (D1132) may have a first surface finish (e.g., textured) that differs from the second surface finish (e.g., smooth) of the top surface (D1166) and / or the distal outer surface (D1164) of each second recess extension (D1132). Alternatively, the top surface (D1166) of each second recess extension (D1132) may have a first surface finish (e.g., textured) that differs from the second surface finish (e.g., smooth) of the distally facing outer surface (D1164) of each second recess extension (D1132).

[0130] V. Examples of Cartridges with Rails for Reinforcement Pad Adhesion A. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Outer Rails FIG. 31Another example of a staple cartridge (D1210) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (44). The staple cartridge (D1210) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1210) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1212) having an upward-facing platform (D1214), an elongated slot (D1218) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1212) and opening upward through the platform (D1214) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1220) extending through the platform (D1214) on each side of the blade slot (D1218). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D1220) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D1218) and pass through the upper platform (D1214), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D1218). Each recess (D1220) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1212), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1212). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1212) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0131] The staple cartridge (D1210) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1230), which extend upward from the platform (D1214) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1220), such that each cartridge recess (D1220) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1230). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1230) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1210) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1210) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1220) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1230) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1210).

[0132] The staple cartridge (D1210) of this example also includes a plurality of additional raised features in the form of a pair of longitudinal guide rails (D1270) extending upward from the platform (D1214) along the respective sides of the blade slot (D1218) and positioned laterally outward of the corresponding outer discharge recess (D1220). The top surface of the guide rail (D1270) may be positioned above the platform (D1214) at substantially the same height as the top surface of the recess extension (D1230), for example, about 0.51 mm. Any or more of the guide rails (D1270) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1210) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1210) equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)). Alternatively, any one or more of the guide rails (D1270) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1210). In some configurations, any one or more of the guide rails (D1270) may be configured to prevent the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) from spreading outwards from the outer side of the corresponding guide rail (D1270).

[0133] B. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Inner Rails and Interconnected Pocket Extensions FIG. 32Another example of a staple cartridge (D1310) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D1310) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1310) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1312) having an upward-facing platform (D1314), an elongated slot (D1318) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1312) and opening upward through the platform (D1314) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1320) extending through the platform (D1314) on each side of the blade slot (D1318). In this configuration, three longitudinal rows of recesses (D1320) are formed along each side of the knife slot (D1318) and pass through the upper platform (D1314), comprising an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the knife slot (D1318). Each recess (D1320) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1312), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1312). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1312) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0134] The staple cartridge (D1310) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332), which extend upward from the platform (D1314) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1320), such that each cartridge recess (D1320) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1310) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1310) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1320) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1310).

[0135] In the example shown, the plurality of recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332) include a plurality of first recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b) having a first configuration and a second recess extension (D1332) having a second configuration different from the first configuration. The first recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b) include a proximal first recess extension (D1330a) located at or near the proximal end of each recess (D1320) in each row, and also include a distal first recess extension (D1330b) located at or near the distal end of each recess (D1320) in each row, except for the farthest recesses (D1320) in the inner and outer rows. In this respect, the second recess extension (D1332) is located at or near the far end of the inner and outermost side recesses (D1320), such that the second recess extension (D1332) laterally spans all the rear recesses (D1320) on both sides of the knife slot (D1318) (e.g., the corresponding inner, middle and outer rear recesses (D1320)).

[0136] As shown in the figure, each first recess extension (D1330a, D1330b) includes an upward-facing top surface (D1346a, D1346b) extending substantially parallel to the platform (D1314). The top surfaces (D1346a, D1346b) can be positioned at a substantially uniform height above the platform (D1314).

[0137] As noted above, the second recess extension (D1332) laterally spans all inner, middle, and outer recesses (D1320) and is located at or near the distal end of the outermost recess (D1320) of the inner and outer rows. The second recess extension (D1332) includes a body (D1360) that defines four nail leg receiving portions (D1362) for receiving corresponding nail legs (D126) of nails (86) slidably housed within the outermost inner and outer recesses (D1320). In this respect, the size and construction of each nail leg receiving portion (D1362) can be set to slidably receive the corresponding nail leg (D126) for vertically guiding the corresponding nail leg (D126) out of the corresponding recess (D1320) and toward the corresponding nail forming recess (66) when the nail (86) is driven outward from the recess (D1320) by the nail driver.

[0138] The body (D1360) of the second recess extension (D1332) further defines a distally facing outer surface (D1364) extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D1314). In the example shown, the outer surface (D1364) of the second recess extension (D1332) is rounded in the longitudinal direction. Alternatively, the outer surface (D1364) of the second recess extension (D1332) may be rounded in the lateral direction, such as in a manner similar to the above. FIG. 11 As shown and described. By extending substantially obliquely relative to the platform (D1314) and / or rounded in the longitudinal and / or lateral directions, the outer surface (D1364) of the second recess extension (D1332) can have a substantially non-invasive configuration, such that each outer surface (D1364) avoids trauma to the tissue contacted by the outer surface (D1364). For example, the outer surface (D1364) can define a distal ramp for gently lifting such tissue upward relative to the platform (D1314). Since the second recess extension (D1332) laterally spans all the inner, middle, and outer drain recesses (D1320), the outer surface (D1364) can be configured to lift portions of such tissue aligned with any one or more of the inner, middle, and outer drain recesses (D1320).

[0139] The main body (D1360) of the second recess extension (D1332) also defines an upward-facing top surface (D1366) that extends substantially parallel to the platform (D1314). The top surface (D1366) can be positioned above the platform (D1314) at the same height as the top surface (D1346a, D1346b).

[0140] Since the second recess extension (D1332) laterally spans all inner, middle and outer drain recesses (D1320), the outer surface (1064) and top surface (D1366) of the second recess extension (D1332) can provide a continuous, interactive anti-snagging surface to provide improved lifting of tissues without snagging them.

[0141] The staple cartridge (D1310) of this example also includes a plurality of additional raised features in the form of a pair of longitudinal guide rails (D1370), which extend upward from the platform (D1314) and proximally from the second recess extension (D1332) along the corresponding side of the knife slot (D1318), and are located laterally inward of the corresponding inner discharge compartment recess (D1320). The top surface (D1372) of the guide rail (D1370) can be positioned above the platform (D1314) at substantially the same height as the top surfaces (D1346a, D1346b, D1366) of the recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332), for example, about 0.51 mm. Any or more of the guide rails (D1370) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1310) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) on the staple cartridge (D1310). Alternatively, any or more of the guide rails (D1370) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1310).

[0142] The staple cartridge (D1310) in this example also includes a plurality of additional raised features in the form of bridging portions (D1374) that extend upward from the platform (D1314) and laterally inward and / or outward from the corresponding first recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b). The top surface (D1376) of the bridging portion (D1374) may be positioned above the platform (D1314) at substantially the same height as the top surfaces (D1346a, D1346b, D1366) of the recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332) and / or the top surface (D1372) of the guide rail (D1370), for example, about 0.51 mm. Any or more of the bridging portions (D1374) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1310) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the case where the staple cartridge (D1310) is not equipped with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)). Alternatively or otherwise, any or more of the bridging portions (D1374) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1310).

[0143] In the example shown, the bridging portion (D1374) interconnects the various first recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b) with each other and / or with the guide rail (D1370), such that the various top surfaces (D1346a, D1346b, D1366, D1372, D1376) are continuous with each other. As shown, the top surfaces (D1346a, D1346b) of at least some of the first recess extensions (D1330a, D1330b) cooperate with the top surface (1376) of the corresponding bridging portion (D1374) to define a continuous, generally serpentine surface extending from the top surface (D1372) of the corresponding guide rail (D1370) to the corresponding lateral outer edge of the platform (D1314).

[0144] In the example shown, the pit extensions (D1330a, D1330b, D1332), the guide rails (D1370), and / or the bridging portions (D1374) also collectively define a continuous lattice structure to provide improved lateral stability to the stud cartridge (D1310) (e.g., during extrusion structures (T1, T2)).

[0145] VI. Examples of Cartridges with Receptacles for Reinforcement Pad Adhesion FIG. 33 to FIG. 35A portion of another example of a staple cartridge (D1410) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown). The staple cartridge (D1410) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1410) of this example includes a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1420) formed on each side of a knife slot (not shown) and extending through an upper platform (not shown). Each cartridge recess (D1420) slidably accommodates an unformed staple (86) and a corresponding staple driver (not shown) similar to a staple driver (84) positioned below the staple (86).

[0146] The staple cartridge (D1410) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1430) extending upward from the platform at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1420), such that each cartridge recess (D1420) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of recessed extensions (D1430). Any or more of the recessed extensions (D1430) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1410) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1410) equipped with reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the legs (D126) of the staple (86) as the legs (D126) leave the corresponding cartridge recess (D1420) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1430) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1410).

[0147] As shown in the figure, each recess extension (D1430) includes a body (D1440) that defines proximal and distal nail leg receiving portions (D1442) for receiving corresponding nail legs (D126) of nails (86) slidably accommodated within the corresponding recess (D1420). The body (D1440) of each recess extension (D1430) also defines an upward-facing top surface (D1446) extending substantially parallel to the platform.

[0148] The staple cartridge (D1410) in this example also includes a plurality of recesses (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c) extending downward from the top surface (D1446) of the corresponding recess extension (D1430). More specifically, as FIG. 33 As shown, a generally circular array of generally circular recesses (D1480a) extends downward from the top surface (D1446) of at least one corresponding recess extension (D1430); as FIG. 34 As shown, a plurality of generally linear recesses (D1480b) oriented obliquely relative to the blade slot extend downward from the top surface (D1446) of at least one corresponding recess extension (D1430); and as FIG. 35 As shown, a single generally "+"-shaped recess (D1480c) extends downward from the top surface (D1446) of at least one corresponding recess extension (D1430). Any or more of the recesses (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c) may be configured to receive corresponding portions of the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1410).

[0149] Although the recesses (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c) have been described as being combined together into a single cartridge (D1410), it should be understood that any suitable type (or multiple types) of recesses (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c) can be combined into a particular cartridge. For example, a given cartridge may contain only a single type of recess (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c). It should also be understood that... FIG. 33 to FIG. 35 Other suitable methods besides those shown are used to construct the recesses (D1480a, D1480b, D1480c).

[0150] VII. Examples of Cartridges with Raised Surfaces for Tissue Flow Control A. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Bidirectional Tapered Platform Surfaces FIG. 36 to FIG. 38Another example of a staple cartridge (D1510) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown). The staple cartridge (D1510) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1510) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1512) having an upward-facing multi-surface platform (D1514), an elongated slot (D1518) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1512) and opening upward through the platform (D1514) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1520) extending through the platform (D1514) on each side of the blade slot (D1518). In this type, three longitudinal rows of cartridge recesses (D1520) are formed along each side of the blade slot (D1518) and through the upper platform (D1514), including an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the blade slot (D1518). Each recess (D1520) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1512), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1512). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1512) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0151] The multi-surface platform (D1514) of this example includes a flat (e.g., horizontal) base surface (D1514a) and a bi-directionally tapered raised surface (D1514b). In the example shown, the raised surface (D1514b) tapers downward in both the distal and laterally outward directions. More specifically, the raised surface (D1514b) tapers downward in both directions to the base surface (D1514a) from a peak (D1522) on each side of the knife slot (D1518), the peak defining the nearest and most laterally inward portions of the raised surface (D1514b). In this example, each peak (D1522) is positioned proximal to the adjacent region of the knife slot (D1518). For example, the peak (D1522) may be positioned proximal to or slightly distal to a wedge-shaped slider disposed within the housing (D1512).

[0152] The staple cartridge (D1510) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1530), which extend upward from the platform (D1514) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D1520), such that each cartridge recess (D1520) is longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1530). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1530) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1510) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1510) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1520) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1530) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1510).

[0153] Since the raised surface (D1514b) tapers downward in both the distal and lateral outward directions, the raised surface (D1514b) can provide a tighter compression of the tissue (T1, T2) in the proximal region of the adjacent blade slot (D1518), thereby inhibiting the dragging of the tissue (T1, T2) by the distal blade portion (50) when the distal blade portion (50) initially contacts the tissue (T1, T2) during the distal translation of the firing beam (46) (e.g., during the firing stroke), and instead promoting the piercing of the tissue (T1, T2) by the distal blade portion (50) to provide a clean cut. Alternatively, the raised surface (D1514b) may similarly inhibit the movement of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) (e.g., “plowing”), but rather facilitate the penetration of the reinforcing pad assemblies (D110, D112, D160) by the distal blade portion (50) to provide a clean cut. In some cases, since fluid tends to flow in the path of least resistance, the downward taper of the raised surface (D1514b) in both the distal and lateral outward directions may assist in guiding the fluid phase of the clamped tissue (T1, T2) outward, both laterally and longitudinally, which may result in an increase in the amount of fluid expelled from the clamped tissue (T1, T2) before the distal translation of the firing beam (46) (e.g., before the firing stroke). This may result in reduced fluid flow during the distal translation of the firing beam (46), thereby reducing any risk of drift of the pin leg (D126) of the pin (86) and thus reducing any risk of poor pin (86) forming. In addition or alternatively, the downward taper of the raised surface (D1514b) in both the distal and lateral outward directions may have a minimal effect on the overall compressive force applied to the tissue (T1,T2), thereby reducing the risk of excessive closing force and / or any reverse bending.

[0154] B. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Convex Platform Surfaces FIG. 39 to FIG. 40Another example of a staple cartridge (D1610) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown). The staple cartridge (D1610) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1610) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1612) having an upward-facing multi-surface platform (D1614), an elongated slot (D1618) extending along the central axis of the cartridge body (D1612) and opening upward through the platform (D1614) for slidably receiving the distal blade portion (50) of a firing beam (not shown) (such as the distal blade portion (50) of the firing beam (46)), and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D1620) extending through the platform (D1614) on each side of the blade slot (D1618). In this type, three longitudinal rows of cartridge recesses (D1620) are formed along each side of the blade slot (D1618) and through the upper platform (D1614), including an inner row, a middle row, and an outer row on each side of the blade slot (D1618). Each recess (D1620) slidably accommodates an unformed nail (86) and a corresponding nail driver (not shown) similar to a nail driver (84) positioned below the nail (86). A lower tray (not shown), similar to a lower tray (76), surrounds the underside of the housing (D1612), thereby holding the nail (86) and the nail driver within the housing (D1612). A wedge-shaped slider (not shown), similar to a wedge-shaped slider (82), is slidably disposed within the housing (D1612) and includes an upwardly projecting cam surface configured to engage the underside of the nail driver.

[0155] The multi-surface platform (D1614) of this example includes a flat (e.g., horizontal) base surface (D1614a) and a convex raised surface (D1614b). In the example shown, the raised surface (D1614b) curves downward in a laterally outward direction. More specifically, the raised surface (D1614b) curves downward in this direction from a peak (D1622) on each side of the blade slot (D1618) to the base surface (D1614a), the peak defining the most laterally inward portion of the raised surface (D1614b). Because the raised surface (D1614b) curves downward in a laterally outward direction, it facilitates the flow of tissue (T1, T2) away from the cutting line.

[0156] The staple cartridge (D1610) in this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1630) that extend upward from the platform (D1614) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each recess (D1620) in the middle and outer rows, such that the recesses (D1620) in the middle and outer rows are each longitudinally bounded by a corresponding pair of proximal and distal recessed extensions (D1630), while the recesses (D1620) in the inner row are neither equipped with corresponding proximal recessed extensions nor distal recessed extensions (D1630). Any or more of the recess extensions (D1630) may be configured to enhance the grip of the staple cartridge (D1610) on the tissue (T1, T2) when the end effector (40) is closed (e.g., in the absence of the staple cartridge (D1610) being equipped with the reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160)), and / or guide the staple leg (D126) of the staple (86) as it leaves the corresponding cartridge recess (D1620) during staple (86) deployment. Alternatively, any one or more of the recess extensions (D1630) may be configured to contact the adhesive layer or strip (D116, D120, D182, D184, D186, D188) of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to facilitate attachment of the corresponding reinforcing pad assembly (D110, D112, D160) to the staple cartridge (D1610).

[0157] C. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Convex Platform Surfaces and Horizontal Pocket Extensions FIG. 41 Another example of a staple cartridge (D1710) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D1710) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1710) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1712) having an upward-facing convex platform (D1714) and a plurality of cartridge recesses (not shown) extending through the platform (D1714) on each side of a knife slot (not shown). The convex platform (D1714) of this example curves downward in a laterally outward direction from the central peak (1722) on each side of the knife slot. The staple cartridge (D1710) in this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1730) that extend upward from the platform (D1714) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess. In the example shown, the top surface of the recessed extensions (D1730) is generally flat and is generally flush with each other.

[0158] D. Example of a Staple Cartridge with Convex Platform Surfaces and Curved Pocket Extensions FIG. 42 Another example of a staple cartridge (D1810) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D1810) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1810) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1812) having an upward-facing convex platform (D1814) and a plurality of cartridge recesses (not shown) extending through the platform (D1814) on each side of a knife slot (not shown). The convex platform (D1814) of this example curves downward in a laterally outward direction from the central peak (1822) on each side of the knife slot. The staple cartridge (D1810) in this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D1830) that extend upward from the platform (D1814) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess. In the example shown, the top surface of the recessed extension (D1830) is generally convex and arranged generally along an arc.

[0159] E. Example of a staple cartridge having a flat deck surface and a stepped recess extension FIG. 43 Another example of a staple cartridge (D1910) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D1910) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D1910) of this example includes a cartridge body (D1912) having an upward-facing flat platform (D1914) and a plurality of cartridge recesses (not shown) extending through the platform (D1914) on each side of a knife slot (not shown). The staple cartridge (D1910) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recess extensions (D1930) extending upward from the platform (D1914) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess. In the example shown, the top surface of the recess extension (D1930) is generally flat and arranged in a generally stepped configuration. More specifically, the top surface of the recess extension (D1930) corresponding to the inner discharge recess is at a first height above the platform (D1914), the top surface of the recess extension (D1930) corresponding to the middle discharge recess is at a second height above the platform (D1914) less than the first height, and the top surface of the recess extension (D1930) corresponding to the outer discharge recess is at a third height above the platform (D1914) less than the second height.

[0160] F. Example of a staple cartridge having a stepped deck and a stepped recess extension FIG. 44 Another example of a staple cartridge (D2010) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown). The staple cartridge (D2010) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D2010) of this example includes a cartridge body (D2012) having an upward-facing stepped platform (D2014) and a plurality of cartridge recesses (not shown) extending through the platform (D2014) on each side of a knife slot (not shown).

[0161] The stepped platform (D2014) in this example includes a lower platform surface (D2014a) of an outer discharge recess across each side of the knife slot, an intermediate platform surface (D2014b) of an intermediate discharge recess across each side of the knife slot, and an upper platform surface (D2014c) of an inner discharge recess across each side of the knife slot.

[0162] The staple cartridge (D2010) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recessed extensions (D2030) extending upward from the platform (D2014) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess. In the example shown, the top surface of the recessed extensions (D2030) is generally flat and arranged in a generally stepped configuration. More specifically, the top surface of the recessed extensions (D2030) corresponding to the inner cartridge recess is at a first height above a reference surface of the platform (D2014) (e.g., the lower platform surface (D2014a)), the top surface of the recessed extensions (D2030) corresponding to the middle cartridge recess is at a second height above the platform (D2014) that is less than the first height, and the top surface of the recessed extensions (D2030) corresponding to the outer cartridge recess is at a third height above the platform (D2014) that is less than the second height.

[0163] G. Example of a staple cartridge having a flat deck and an outer relief FIG. 45Another example of a staple cartridge (D2110) is shown, which is configured to deploy staples (86) toward corresponding staple-forming recesses (66) of an anvil (not shown), such as staple-forming recesses (44) of the anvil. The staple cartridge (D2110) is configured to be used with an end effector (40) and is similar to the staple cartridge (70) described above, unless otherwise described below. In this respect, the staple cartridge (D2110) of this example includes a cartridge body (D2012) having an upward-facing platform (D2114) and a plurality of cartridge recesses (D2120) extending through the platform (D2114) on each side of the blade slot (D2118). The staple cartridge (D2110) of this example also includes a plurality of raised features in the form of recess extensions (D2130) extending upward from the platform (D2114) at or near the proximal and distal ends of each cartridge recess (D2120).

[0164] In the example shown, the staple cartridge (D2110) also includes a plurality of clearance portions (D2190) positioned along the lateral outer edge of the platform (D2114), where tissue (T1, T2) can cover the staple cartridge (D2110). In this respect, the clearance portions (D2190) can inhibit longitudinal movement (e.g., "flow") of the tissue (T1, T2) being cut and sutured.

[0165] In some forms, FIGS. 41-45 Any one or more of the configurations shown can be combined with each other.

[0166] It should be understood that although the features shown and described above are presented in the context of the staple cartridge (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1210, D1310, D1410, D1510, D1610, D1710, D1810, D1910, D2010, D2110) of the surgical stapler (10), such features can also be applied to staple cartridges that are configured to be used with a variety of other types of surgical staplers, such as linear surgical staplers.

[0167] VIII. Embodiments of Combinations The following examples illustrate various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be provided at any time in this patent application or a subsequent filing thereof. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided merely for illustrative purposes. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be arranged and applied in a variety of other ways. It is also contemplated that some variations may omit certain features mentioned in the following examples. Therefore, none of the aspects or features mentioned below should be considered definitive unless otherwise expressly indicated by the inventor or a successor with an interest in the inventor at a later date. If any claim set forth in this patent application or a subsequent filing related to this patent application includes additional features beyond those mentioned below, such additional features should not be presumed to have been added for any reason related to patentability.

[0168] Example 1 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310, D1510, D1610) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312, D1512, D1612) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314, D1514) (d1614), wherein the upper platform defines a suture surface; (b) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520, D620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320, D1520, D1620), the plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in at least two longitudinal rows; (c) a plurality of staple drivers (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue (T1, T2); (d) a staple driver actuator (82), the staple driver actuator being configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of staple drivers; (e) a plurality of recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D330a, D330b, D430, D530, D630, D730, D830, D930, D1030a, D1030b, D1130a, D1130b, D1330a, D1330b, D1530, D1630), the plurality of recessed extensions extend upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface (D246a, D246b, D346a, D346b, D446, ​​D546, D646, D746, D846, D946, D1046a, D1046b, D1146a, D1146b, D1346a, D1346b) defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly;and (f) at least one upward-facing surface (D256, D266, D356, D366, D456, D466, D556, D656, D666, D756, D856, D866, D956, D1066, D1166, D1364, D1514b, D1614b), said at least one upward-facing surface being configured to contact the adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) of the appendage (D110, D112, D160) for securing the appendage to the suture assembly, wherein said at least one upward-facing surface is at least partially disposed between at least a portion of the upper platform and the top surface of the plurality of recess extensions, wherein said at least one upward-facing surface laterally extends at least partially across the at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0169] Example 2 According to the suture assembly of Embodiment 1, the at least one upward-facing surface has a larger surface area than the top surface of each of the plurality of recessed extensions.

[0170] Example 3 According to any one of Embodiments 1 to 2, in the suture assembly, the farthest recess extension of the plurality of recess extensions, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends further away than the top surface of the farthest recess extension.

[0171] Example 4 According to any one of Embodiments 1 to 3, the suture assembly includes a nearest-side recess extension, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends closer to the side than the top surface of the nearest-side recess extension.

[0172] Example 5 According to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, the suture assembly wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends substantially parallel to the upper platform.

[0173] Example 6 According to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, the suture assembly wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends substantially at an angle to the upper platform.

[0174] Example 7 According to the suture assembly of Embodiment 6, the at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one upward-facing and proximal-facing surface extending from the upper platform upward and distally to the peak (D458, D558, D658).

[0175] Example 8 According to any one of Embodiments 6 to 7, the suture assembly wherein the at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one upward-facing and distal-facing surface extending from the upper platform upward and proximally to the peak (D468, D558, D668, D1522).

[0176] Example 9 According to the suture assembly of Embodiment 8, the peak of the at least one upward and distal surface coincides with the peak of the corresponding upward and proximal surface.

[0177] Example 10 The suture assembly according to any one of embodiments 8 to 9 further includes at least one proximal-facing surface (D664) that extends substantially orthogonally from the upper platform to the peak of the at least one upward-facing and distal-facing surface relative to the upper platform.

[0178] Example 11 According to any one of Embodiments 1 to 10, the suture assembly wherein the at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one hemispherical surface (D556).

[0179] Example 12 According to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, the suture assembly wherein at least one upward-facing surface is shaped into a pattern that substantially matches the adhesive portion of the appendage.

[0180] Example 13 The suture assembly according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 12 further includes at least one opening (D451, D461, D551, D651, D661, D861, D951) extending through the at least one upward-facing surface and covering a corresponding recess among the plurality of recesses for receiving a corresponding nail through the at least one opening.

[0181] Example 14 The suture assembly according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 13 further includes at least one non-traumatic distally facing surface (D254, D264, D354, D364, D459, D659, D754, D854, D1064, D1164), which extends distally and downward from the at least one upwardly facing surface and is configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform.

[0182] Example 15 A surgical instrument (10) includes: (a) a suture assembly according to any one of Examples 1 to 14; and (b) an appendage (D110, D112, D160) attached to the suture assembly, wherein the appendage includes: (i) an appendage material portion (D114, D118, D164), and (ii) an adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) in contact with at least one upward-facing surface of the suture assembly.

[0183] Example 16 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314), wherein the upper platform defines a suture surface; and (b) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520). (d620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320) , the plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (c) a plurality of staple drivers (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue (T1, T2); (d) a staple driver actuator (82) configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of staple drivers; and (e) a plurality of recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D232, D234, D330a, D330b, D332, D334, D430, D530, D630, D730) D830, D930, D1030a, D1030b, D1032, D1130a, D1130b, D1132, D1330a, D1330b, D1332), the plurality of recessed extensions extend upward from the upper platform, wherein the plurality of recessed extensions include a first distal recessed extension (D234, D334, D1032, D1132, D1332), the first distal recessed extension having: (i) a first distally facing surface (D264, D364, D1064, D1164) (D1364) The first distally facing surface is configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein the first distally facing surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform and at least partially laterally spans at least two of the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses, and (ii) the upwardly facing surface (D266, D366, D1066, D1166, D1366) defines the uppermost surface of the suture assembly.

[0184] Example 17 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 16, the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the longitudinal direction.

[0185] Example 18 According to any one of embodiments 16 to 17, the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the lateral direction.

[0186] Example 19 According to any one of embodiments 16 to 18, the suture assembly wherein the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses includes at least three longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0187] Example 20 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 19, wherein the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension extends laterally across only the first and second rows of the plurality of recesses, such that the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension does not extend laterally across only the third row of the plurality of recesses.

[0188] Example 21 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 20, the first row and the second row of the plurality of recesses respectively include the lateral inner row and the lateral middle row of the plurality of recesses, and the third row of the plurality of recesses includes the lateral outer row of the plurality of recesses.

[0189] Example 22 According to any one of Embodiments 20 to 21, the suture assembly includes a second distal recess extension (D232, D332) having a second distal surface (D254, D354) configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein the second distal surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform and is aligned with a third row of the plurality of recesses.

[0190] Example 23 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 22, the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension and the second distal surface of the second distal recess extension are configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform substantially simultaneously.

[0191] Example 24 According to any one of embodiments 22 to 23, the second distal surface of the second distal recess extension is rounded in the longitudinal direction.

[0192] Example 25 According to any one of embodiments 22 to 24, the second distal surface of the second distal recess extension is rounded in the lateral direction.

[0193] Example 26 According to any one of embodiments 16 to 25, the first distal surface of the first distal recess extension extends upward and proximally relative to the upper platform to the upward-facing surface of the first distal recess extension.

[0194] Example 27 According to any one of embodiments 16 to 26, the suture assembly wherein the upward-facing surface extends substantially parallel to the upper platform.

[0195] Example 28 According to any one of Embodiments 16 to 27, the suture assembly wherein the upward-facing surface is configured to contact the adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) of the appendage (D110, D112, D160) to secure the appendage to the suture assembly.

[0196] Example 29 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 28, the upward-facing surface is shaped to substantially match the pattern of the adhesive portion of the appendage.

[0197] Example 30 A surgical instrument (10) includes: (a) a suture assembly according to any one of Examples 16 to 29; and (b) an appendage (D110, D112, D160) attached to the suture assembly, wherein the appendage includes: (i) an appendage material portion (D114, D118, D164), and (ii) an adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) in contact with an upward-facing surface of the suture assembly.

[0198] Example 31 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310, D1510, D1610) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312, D1512, D1612) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314, D1514) (d1614), wherein the upper platform defines a suture surface; (b) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520, D620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320, D1520, D1620), the plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows on each side of the longitudinal axis; (c) a plurality of staple drivers (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess among the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue (T1, T2); (d) a staple driver actuator (82), the staple driver actuator being configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of staple drivers; (e) a plurality of recess extensions (D230a, The plurality of recessed extensions (D230b, D232, D234, D330a, D330b, D332, D334, D430, D530, D630, D730, D830, D930, D1030a, D1030b, D1032, D1130a, D1130b, D1132, D1330a, D1330b, D1332, D1530, D1630) extend upward from the upper platform. Each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface (D246a, D246b, D256, D266, D346a, D346b, D356, D366, D446, ​​D546, D646, D746) defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly. D846,D946, D1066, D1166, D1346a, D1346b);(f) a pair of distally facing surfaces (D254, D264, D354, D364, D459, D659, D754, D854, D1064, D1164), each of which is configured to lift the tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein each of the distally facing surfaces is disposed on a corresponding side of the longitudinal axis, the top surface of the farthest recess extension of the plurality of recess extensions on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis extending proximally and upward relative to the distal end of the upper platform toward the longitudinal axis, and at least partially laterally spanning at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis.

[0199] Example 32 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 31, each of the pair of distally facing surfaces is rounded in the longitudinal direction.

[0200] Example 33 According to any one of embodiments 31 to 32, the suture assembly wherein each of the pair of distally facing surfaces is rounded in the lateral direction.

[0201] Example 34 According to any one of embodiments 31 to 33, the suture assembly wherein each of the pair of distally facing surfaces tapers in the longitudinal direction.

[0202] Example 35 According to any one of embodiments 31 to 34, each of the pair of distal-facing surfaces has at least partially laterally spanning at least three longitudinal rows of a plurality of recesses on a corresponding side of the longitudinal axis.

[0203] Example 36 According to any one of embodiments 31 to 35, each of the pair of distally facing surfaces extends upward and proximally relative to the upper platform to the upwardly facing surface (D256, D266, D356, D366, D456, D656, D756, D856, D1066, D1166).

[0204] Example 37 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 36, the upward-facing surface extends substantially parallel to the upper platform.

[0205] Example 38 According to any one of embodiments 36 to 37, the suture assembly wherein the upward-facing surface is configured to contact the adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) of the appendage (D110, D112, D160) to secure the appendage to the suture assembly.

[0206] Example 39 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 38, the upward-facing surface is shaped to substantially match the pattern of the adhesive portion of the appendage.

[0207] Example 40 A surgical instrument (10) includes: (a) a suture assembly according to any one of embodiments 36 to 39; and (b) an appendage (D110, D112, D160) attached to the suture assembly, wherein the appendage includes: (i) an appendage material portion (D114, D118, D164), and (ii) an adhesive portion (D116, D120, D166) in contact with an upward-facing surface of the suture assembly.

[0208] Example 41 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310, D1510, D1610) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312, D1512, D1612) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314, D1514) (d1614), wherein the upper platform defines a suture surface; (b) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520, D620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320, D1520, D1620), the plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (c) a plurality of staple drivers (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue (T1, T2); (d) a staple driver actuator (82), the staple driver actuator being configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of staple drivers; (e) a plurality of first recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D330a, D330b, D430, D530, D630, D730, D830, D930, D1030a, D1030b, D1130a, D1130b, D1330a, D1330b, D1530, D1630), the plurality of first recess extensions extend upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of first recess extensions includes a first top surface (D246a, D246b, D346a, D346b, D1046a, D1046b, D1146a, D1146b, D1346a, D1346b) positioned at a first height above the upper platform;and (f) at least one second recess extension (D232, D234, D332, D334, D1032, D1132, D1332), the at least one second recess extension extending upward from the upper platform and positioned distal to the plurality of first recess extensions, wherein the at least one second recess extension includes: (i) a second top surface (D256, D266, D356, D366, D1066, D1166, D1366) positioned at a second height above the upper platform, wherein the second height is different from the first height, and (ii) a distally facing surface (D264, D364, D1064, D1164). (D1364) The distally facing surface has a first profile such that the distally facing surface is configured to apply a first frictional force to the tissue, and (iii) The proximal facing surface (D1163) has a second profile different from the first profile of the distally facing surface such that the proximal facing surface is configured to apply a second frictional force to the tissue greater than the first frictional force provided by the distally facing surface.

[0209] Example 42 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 41, the distal-facing surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform.

[0210] Example 43 According to any one of embodiments 41 to 42, the suture assembly wherein the proximal surface extends substantially orthogonally relative to the upper platform.

[0211] Example 44 According to any one of embodiments 41 to 43, the suture assembly wherein the proximal-facing surface at least partially laterally spans at least two of the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0212] Example 45 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 44, the proximal surface (D1163) at least partially laterally spans three of the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0213] Example 46 According to any one of embodiments 41 to 45, the suture assembly wherein the second height is greater than the first height.

[0214] Example 47 According to any one of embodiments 41 to 46, the suture assembly wherein the second top surface is configured to contact the anvil (44) before the first top surface contacts the anvil (44) during the approach of the anvil (44) toward the suture assembly.

[0215] Example 48 According to any one of embodiments 41 to 47, the suture assembly wherein at least one of the proximal surface or the second top surface has a first surface finish, and wherein the distal surface has a second surface finish different from the first surface finish.

[0216] Example 49 According to the stitching assembly of embodiment 48, the first surface finish is textured.

[0217] Example 50 According to any one of embodiments 47 to 49, the suture assembly wherein the second surface finish is smooth.

[0218] Example 51 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310, D1510, D1610) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312, D1512, D1612) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314, D1514) (d1614), wherein the upper platform defines a suture surface; (b) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520, D620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320, D1520, D1620), the plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (c) a plurality of staple drivers (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue (T1, T2); (d) a staple driver actuator (82), the staple driver actuator being configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of staple drivers; (e) a plurality of first recess extensions (D230a, D230b, D330a, D330b, D430, D530, D630, D730, D830, D930, D1030a, D1030b, D1130a, D1130b, D1330a, D1330b, D1530, D1630), the plurality of first recess extensions extend upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of first recess extensions includes a first top surface (D246a, D246b, D346a, D346b, D1046a, D1046b, D1146a, D1146b, D1346a, D1346b).(f) At least one second recess extension (D232, D234, D332, D334, D1032, D1132, D1332) extending upward from the upper platform and positioned distal to the plurality of first recess extensions, wherein the at least one second recess extension includes: (i) a second top surface (D256, D266, D356, D366, D1066, D1166, D1366), and (ii) a distally facing surface (D264, D364, D1064, D1164). (d1364), wherein the distal surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform; (g) at least one longitudinal guide rail (D1370) extending upward from the upper platform and proximally from the at least one second recess extension, wherein the at least one longitudinal guide rail includes a third top surface (D1372); and (h) at least one bridging portion (D1374) extending upward from the upper platform and laterally extending between at least one of: (i) a corresponding pair of first recess extensions of the plurality of first recess extensions, or (ii) the at least one longitudinal guide rail (D1370) and a corresponding one of the plurality of first recess extensions, wherein the at least one bridging portion includes a fourth top surface (D1376).

[0219] Example 52 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 51, the at least one longitudinal guide rail includes a pair of longitudinal guide rails disposed on the respective sides of the longitudinal axis.

[0220] Example 53 According to any one of embodiments 51 to 52, the suture assembly wherein the first top surface, the second top surface, the third top surface and the fourth top surface are each positioned at the same height above the upper platform.

[0221] Example 54 According to any one of embodiments 51 to 53, the suture assembly wherein the first top surface, the second top surface, the third top surface and the fourth top surface are continuous with each other.

[0222] Example 55 According to any one of embodiments 51 to 54, the stitching assembly wherein the plurality of first recess extensions, the at least one second recess extension, the at least one guide rail, and the at least one bridging portion together define a continuous grid structure.

[0223] Example 56 A suture assembly (D210, D310, D410, D510, D610, D710, D810, D910, D1010, D1110, D1310, D1510, D1610) for a surgical instrument (10), the suture assembly comprising: (a) a body (D212, D312, D412, D512, D612, D712, D812, D912, D1012, D1112, D1312, D1512, D1612) extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform (D214, D314, D414, D514, D614, D714, D814, D914, D1014, D1114, D1314, D1514) (a) a plurality of recesses (D220, D320, D420, D520, D620, D720, D820, D920, D1020, D1120, D1320, D1520, D1620) extending through the upper platform to receive corresponding staples (86), wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (b) a plurality of staple actuators (84), wherein each of the plurality of staple actuators is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess to actuate the corresponding staple into the tissue (T1, (T2) and (d) a nail driver actuator (82) configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers, wherein the upper platform tapers or bends downward in a laterally outward direction from the laterally inner peak (D1522, D1622) toward the laterally outer edge of the upper platform.

[0224] Example 57 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 56, the upper platform tapers downward in the lateral outward direction from the lateral inner peak toward the lateral outer edge of the upper platform.

[0225] Example 58 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 56, the upper platform bends downward in a laterally outward direction from the laterally inner peak toward the laterally outer edge of the upper platform.

[0226] Example 59 According to the suture assembly of embodiment 58, the upper platform includes a convex platform surface.

[0227] Example 60 According to any one of embodiments 56 to 59, the suture assembly wherein the upper platform tapers downward in the distal direction from the inner peak portion toward the distal end of the upper platform.

[0228] The following clauses also cover the various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings of this article can be combined or applied.

[0229] 1. A suture assembly for surgical instruments, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in at least two longitudinal rows; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly; and (f) At least one upward-facing surface configured to contact an adhesive portion of an appendage for securing the appendage to the suture assembly, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface is at least partially disposed between at least a portion of the upper platform and the top surface of the plurality of recess extensions, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface at least partially laterally spans the at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0230] 2. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface has a larger surface area than the top surface of each of the plurality of recessed extensions.

[0231] 3. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of recess extensions includes a distal recess extension, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends further distally than the top surface of the distal recess extension.

[0232] 4. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the plurality of recess extensions includes a nearest-side recess extension, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends closer to the side than the top surface of the nearest-side recess extension.

[0233] 5. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends substantially parallel to the upper platform.

[0234] 6. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends substantially at an angle to the upper platform.

[0235] 7. The suture assembly according to Clause 6, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface comprises at least one upward-facing and proximal-facing surface extending from the upper platform upward and distally to the peak.

[0236] 8. The suture assembly according to Clause 6, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface comprises at least one upward-facing and distally-facing surface extending from the upper platform upward and proximally to the peak.

[0237] 9. The suture assembly according to Clause 8, wherein the peak of the at least one upward and distally facing surface coincides with the peak of the corresponding upward and proximal facing surface.

[0238] 10. The suture assembly according to Clause 8 further includes at least one proximal-facing surface, the at least one proximal-facing surface extending substantially orthogonally from the upper platform to the peak of the at least one upward-facing and distal-facing surface.

[0239] 11. The suture assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface comprises at least one hemispherical surface.

[0240] 12. The sewing assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface is shaped to substantially match the pattern of the adhesive portion of the appendage.

[0241] 13. The suture assembly according to Clause 1 further includes at least one opening extending through the at least one upward-facing surface and covering a corresponding recess among the plurality of recesses for receiving the corresponding nail through the at least one opening.

[0242] 14. The suture assembly according to Clause 1 further includes at least one non-traumatic distally facing surface, the at least one non-traumatic distally facing surface extending distally downward from the at least one upwardly facing surface and configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform.

[0243] 15. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) the suture assembly as described in Clause 1; and (b) An accessory attached to the suture assembly, wherein the accessory comprises: (i) the ancillary materials section, and (ii) An adhesive portion that contacts at least one upward-facing surface of the suture assembly.

[0244] 16. A suture assembly for a surgical instrument, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; and (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein the plurality of recessed extensions includes a first farthest recessed extension having: (i) a first distally facing surface configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein the first distally facing surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform and at least partially laterally spans at least two of the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses, and (ii) An upward-facing surface that defines the uppermost surface of the stitching assembly.

[0245] 17. The suture assembly according to Clause 16, wherein the first distally facing surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the longitudinal direction.

[0246] 18. The suture assembly according to Clause 16, wherein the first distally facing surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the lateral direction.

[0247] 19. The suture assembly according to Clause 16, wherein the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses comprises at least three longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

[0248] 20. A suture assembly for a surgical instrument, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows on each side of the longitudinal axis; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly; and (f) A pair of distally facing surfaces, each of the pair of distally facing surfaces being configured to lift the tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein each of the pair of distally facing surfaces is disposed on a corresponding side of the longitudinal axis, the top surface of the farthest recess extension of the plurality of recess extensions on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis extending proximally and upward relative to the distal end of the upper platform, and at least partially laterally spanning at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis.

[0249] IX. Miscellaneous It should be understood that any or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein can be combined with any or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., described herein. Therefore, the aforementioned teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc., should not be considered in isolation from each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0250] Furthermore, any one or more of the teachings herein may be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in the following patent applications: U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP1, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler Cartridge Having Intermediate Raised Tissue Engagement Protrusions”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP2, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler Cartridge Having Tissue Engagement Protrusions with Enlarged Engagement Surface”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler Cartridge Having Cartridge Retention Features”; and U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP4, filed on the same date as this application, entitled “Surgical Stapler Anvil Having Staple Forming Pockets with Laterally”. U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP5, entitled “Varying Orientations”; U.S. Patent Application No. END9523USNP6, entitled “Method of Surgical Stapling”, filed on the same date as this application; and / or U.S. Patent Application No. END9516USNP1, entitled “Incompatible Staple Cartridge Use Prevention Features for Surgical Stapler”, filed on the same date as this application. The disclosure of each of these U.S. patent applications is incorporated herein by reference.

[0251] It should be understood that any patent, patent publication, or other public material allegedly incorporated herein by reference, whether in whole or in part, is incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with the existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed in this disclosure. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly listed herein replace any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or part thereof, allegedly incorporated herein by reference but conflicting with the existing definitions, statements, or other public materials listed herein, will be incorporated only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with the existing public materials.

[0252] The aforementioned devices can be applied to both traditional medical treatments and surgeries performed by medical professionals and robot-assisted medical treatments and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein can be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems, such as those provided by Auris Health, Inc. (Redwood City, CA) or Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California).

[0253] Devices of the types described above may be designed for single-use and disposal, or they may be designed for multiple uses. In either or both cases, these types may be repaired for reuse after at least one use. Repair may include any combination of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing specific parts, and subsequently reassembling. Specifically, some types of devices may be disassembled, and any combination may be used to selectively replace or remove any number of specific parts or portions of the device. While cleaning and / or replacing specific components, some types of devices may be reassembled at a repair facility or by the user prior to surgery for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that device repair can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques and the resulting repaired devices are within the scope of this application.

[0254] By way of example only, the types described herein can be sterilized before and / or after the procedure. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and device can then be placed in a radiation field capable of penetrating the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device can then be stored in a sterile container for later use. Any other techniques known in the art can also be used to sterilize the device, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or vapor.

[0255] Various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, and further improvements to the methods and systems described herein can be achieved by suitable modifications made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. Several such possible modifications have been mentioned, and other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the embodiments, implementations, geometries, materials, dimensions, ratios, steps, etc., discussed above are illustrative and not essential. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be considered in accordance with the following claims and should be understood as not being limited to the details of the structures and operations shown and described in the specification and drawings.

Claims

1. A suture assembly for a surgical instrument, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in at least two longitudinal rows; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly; and (f) At least one upward-facing surface configured to contact an adhesive portion of an appendage for securing the appendage to the suture assembly, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface is at least partially disposed between at least a portion of the upper platform and the top surface of the plurality of recess extensions, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface at least partially laterally spans the at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses.

2. The suture assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface has a larger surface area than the top surface of each of the plurality of recessed extensions.

3. The suture assembly according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The plurality of recessed extensions include a farthest recessed extension, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends further away than the top surface of the farthest recessed extension.

4. The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The plurality of recessed extensions include a nearest-side recessed extension, wherein the at least one upward-facing surface extends closer to the side than the top surface of the nearest-side recessed extension.

5. The suture assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface extends substantially parallel to the upper platform.

6. The suture assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface is substantially inclined to the upper platform extension.

7. The suture assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one upward-facing and proximal-facing surface that extends from the upper platform upward and distally to the peak.

8. The suture assembly according to claim 6 or claim 7, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one upward-facing and distal-facing surface that extends from the upper platform upward and toward the proximal side to the peak.

9. The suture assembly according to claim 8, wherein, The peak of the at least one upward-facing and distal surface coincides with the peak of the corresponding upward-facing and proximal surface.

10. The suture assembly of claim 8, further comprising at least one proximal-facing surface, the at least one proximal-facing surface extending substantially orthogonally from the upper platform to the peak of the at least one upward-facing and distal-facing surface.

11. The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface includes at least one hemispherical surface.

12. The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The at least one upward-facing surface is shaped to substantially match the pattern of the adhesive portion of the appendage.

13. The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims further includes at least one opening extending through the at least one upward-facing surface and covering a corresponding recess among the plurality of recesses for receiving the corresponding nail through the at least one opening.

14. The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims further includes at least one non-traumatic distally facing surface, the at least one non-traumatic distally facing surface extending distally downward from the at least one upwardly facing surface and configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform.

15. A surgical instrument comprising: (a) The suture assembly according to any of the preceding claims; and (b) An accessory attached to the suture assembly, wherein the accessory comprises: (i) the ancillary materials section, and (ii) An adhesive portion that contacts at least one upward-facing surface of the suture assembly.

16. A suture assembly for a surgical instrument, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; and (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein the plurality of recessed extensions includes a first farthest recessed extension having: (i) a first distally facing surface configured to lift tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein the first distally facing surface extends substantially obliquely relative to the upper platform and at least partially laterally spans at least two of the plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses, and (ii) An upward-facing surface that defines the uppermost surface of the stitching assembly.

17. The suture assembly of claim 16, wherein, The first distal surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the longitudinal direction.

18. The suture assembly according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, The first distal surface of the first distal recess extension is rounded in the lateral direction.

19. The suture assembly according to claims 16 to 18, wherein, The plurality of longitudinal rows of the plurality of pits includes at least three longitudinal rows of the plurality of pits.

20. A suture assembly for a surgical instrument, the suture assembly comprising: (a) A body extending along a longitudinal axis and having an upper platform, wherein the upper platform defines a stitching surface; (b) A plurality of recesses extending through the upper platform for receiving corresponding nails, wherein the plurality of recesses are arranged in a plurality of longitudinal rows on each side of the longitudinal axis; (c) A plurality of staple drivers, wherein each of the plurality of staple drivers is aligned with a corresponding recess in the plurality of recesses and is vertically movable within the corresponding recess for actuating the corresponding staple into tissue; (d) A nail driver actuator configured to translate distally relative to the body for sequentially lifting the plurality of nail drivers; (e) A plurality of recessed extensions extending upward from the upper platform, wherein each of the plurality of recessed extensions has a corresponding top surface defining the uppermost surface of the suture assembly; and (f) A pair of distally facing surfaces, each of the pair of distally facing surfaces being configured to lift the tissue upward relative to the upper platform, wherein each of the pair of distally facing surfaces is disposed on a corresponding side of the longitudinal axis, the top surface of the farthest recess extension of the plurality of recess extensions on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis extending proximally and upward relative to the distal end of the upper platform, and at least partially laterally spanning at least two longitudinal rows of the plurality of recesses on the corresponding side of the longitudinal axis.

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