Surgical stapler anvil with staple directing protrusion and tissue stability feature

Abstract

To provide an anvil for a surgical stapler.SOLUTION: An anvil 8100 includes a staple-forming undersurface 8130 that has lines of staple-forming pockets 8060a, 8060b, 8060c that are configured to establish a flexible staple line. Regarding a plurality of anvil protrusions, each anvil protrusion is adjacent to at least two staple-forming pockets to direct staples therein during a staple firing process and to engage the tissue that is being stapled.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 59

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and to surgical stapling and severing instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith that are designed to staple and sever tissue in a variety of situations. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0002] The various features of the embodiments described herein, together with their advantages, may be understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a powered surgical stapling system. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 1 . [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is an exploded assembly view of a portion of a handle assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 1 . [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the exchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 2. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is another exploded view of a portion of the exchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. [Figure 6] 3 is a partial perspective view of the end effector portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 2 with its jaws in an open position; FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is another perspective view of a portion of the end effector and interchangeable shaft assembly of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a distal closure member. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is an end view of the distal closure member of FIG. 8. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 7 with its closure member and anvil in a fully open position. [Figure 11]11 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 10 taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 12 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 11 with the anvil and closure member in a closed position. [Figure 13] 13 is a cross-sectional view of the anvil and closure member of FIG. 12 taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12. [Figure 14] 14 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the exchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 13 with its closure member and anvil in an "over-closed" position. [Figure 15] 15 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 14 taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of another end effector and a portion of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with its anvil in an open position. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 16 with the anvil and its closure member in a fully open position. [Figure 18] 18 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 17 taken along line 18-18 of FIG. 17. [Figure 19] FIG. 18 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 17 with its closure member and anvil in a closed position. [Figure 20] 20 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 19 taken along line 20-20 of FIG. 19. [Figure 21] 20 is a side view of the end effector and a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 19 with its closure member and anvil in an over-closed position; [Figure 22] 22 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 21 taken along line 22-22 of FIG. 21. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is an end view of another embodiment of a distal closure member. [Figure 24] FIG. 13 is a side view of an alternative end effector and a portion of an alternative interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with its closure member and anvil in an open position; [Diagram 25] 25 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 24 taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a side view of the end effector and interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 24 with its closure member and anvil in a closed position. [Figure 27] 27 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 26 taken along line 27-27 of FIG. 26. [Figure 28] FIG. 25 is a side view of the end effector and interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 24 with its closure member and anvil in an over-closed position. [Figure 29] 29 is a cross-sectional view of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 28 taken along line 29-29 of FIG. 28. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is an end view of another embodiment of a closure member. [Diagram 31] FIG. 13 is a side view of an alternative end effector and a portion of an alternative interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with its closure member and anvil in a closed position; [Diagram 32] FIG. 32 is another side view of the end effector and interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 31 with its closure member and anvil in an "over-closed" position. [Diagram 33] FIG. 32 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 31 with the anvil in a closed position; [Diagram 34] 33 is another enlarged side view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 32 with the anvil in an over-closed position; FIG. [Diagram 35] FIG. 13 is a side view of an alternative end effector and a portion of an alternative interchangeable surgical shaft assembly with its closure member and anvil in a closed position; [Diagram 36]FIG. 36 is an enlarged side view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 35 with the anvil in a closed position; [Figure 37] FIG. 36 is another side view of the end effector and exchangeable surgical shaft assembly of FIG. 35 with its closure member and anvil in an over-closed position. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is another enlarged side view of a portion of the end effector and closure member of FIG. 37 with the anvil in an over-closed position; [Figure 39] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a conventional surgical staple cartridge configured to form a flexible row of surgical staples; [Diagram 40] 40 is a top view illustrating a row of surgical staples formed in tissue by the surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 39; FIG. [Diagram 41] FIG. 1 is a side view of one embodiment of a conventional surgical staple. [Diagram 42] FIG. 1 is a side view of another embodiment of a conventional surgical staple. [Diagram 43] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of an anvil. [Diagram 44] FIG. 44 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the anvil of FIG. [Diagram 45] FIG. 44 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the staple forming underside of the anvil of FIG. 43; [Figure 46] FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the forming pocket of the anvil of FIG. [Figure 47] FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of an anvil; [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is an enlarged top view of a portion of the staple forming underside of the anvil of FIG. 47; [Figure 49] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the forming pocket of the anvil of FIG. 47. [Figure 50] FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of the staple forming lower surface of another embodiment of an anvil. [Figure 51] FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of the staple forming lower surface of another embodiment of an anvil. [Figure 52]FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of the staple forming lower surface of another embodiment of an anvil. [Figure 53] FIG. 13 is a top view of a portion of the staple forming lower surface of another embodiment of an anvil. [Figure 54] FIG. 13 is a top view of an embodiment of a staple forming pocket. [Figure 55] FIG. 13 is a top view of another embodiment of a staple forming pocket; [Figure 56] FIG. 13 is a top view of another embodiment of a staple forming pocket; [Figure 57] FIG. 13 is a top view of another embodiment of a staple forming pocket; [Figure 58] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the staple forming underside of another embodiment of an anvil; [Figure 59] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the staple forming underside of another embodiment of an anvil; [Figure 60] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a portion of the staple forming underside of another embodiment of an anvil;

[0003] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set forth herein are illustrative of various embodiments of the invention in one form only, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0004] The applicant of this application has owned the following U.S. patent applications, filed on even date herewith, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety: -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "METHOD FOR FABRICATING SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS" (Attorney Docket No. END8577USNP / 180088M); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "REINFORCED DEFORMABLE ANVIL TIP FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVIL" (Attorney Docket No. END8578USNP / 180393); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "FABRICATING TECHNIQUES FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS" (Attorney Docket No. END8580USNP / 180090); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE MEMBERS" (Attorney Docket No. END8581USNP / 180091); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH TISSUE STOP FEATURES CONFIGURED TO AVOID TISSUE PINCH" (Attorney Docket No. END8582USNP / 180092); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (Attorney Docket No. END8583USNP / 180093M); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE JAW CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS" (Attorney Docket No. END8584USNP / 180094); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS TO CONVERT LINEAR DRIVE MOTIONS TO ROTARY DRIVE MOTIONS" (Attorney Docket No. END8585USNP / 180095); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING AND LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR LINKING AN ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM TO A FIRING DRIVE SYSTEM" (Attorney Docket No. END8586USNP / 180096); -U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "ARTICULATABLE MOTOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH DEDICATED ARTICULATION MOTOR ARRANGEMENTS" (Attorney Docket No. END8587USNP / 180097); - U.S. Patent Application No. __________, entitled "SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOTOR POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (Attorney Docket No. END8588USNP / 180098), and -United States Design Patent No. __________, the design of which is entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS" (Attorney Docket No. END8581USDP / 180099D).

[0005] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications and U.S. patents, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,185, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES THEREOF" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168642); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,230, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168649); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,221, entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 01686); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,209, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168645); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,198, entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168644); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,240, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168651); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,939, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168629); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,941, entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168630); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,943, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168631); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,950, entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168635); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,945, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168632); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,946, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168633); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,951, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASING A JAW OPENING DISTANCE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168636); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,953, entitled "METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168637); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,954, entitled "FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168638); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,955, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOP ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168639); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,948, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168584); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,956, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168640); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,958, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168641); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,947, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168634); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,896, entitled "METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168597); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,898, entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168599); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,899, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168600); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,901, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168602); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,902, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168603); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,904, entitled "STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND / OR SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168605); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,905, entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168606); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,907, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUT AND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168608); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,908, entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168609); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,909, entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168610); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,920, entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168620); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,913, entitled "ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168614); - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,914, entitled "METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168615); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,893, entitled "BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE-FORMING POCKET PAIRS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168594); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,929, entitled "CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168626); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,911, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168612); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,927, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168625); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,917, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168617); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,900, entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168601); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,931, entitled "NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168627); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,915, entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168616); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,897, entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMING SURFACE GROOVES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168598); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,922, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168622); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,924, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168624); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,910, entitled "ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168611); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,903, entitled "CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168604); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,906, entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168607); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,188, entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168585); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,192, entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAP SETTING FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168643); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,206, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168586); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,226, entitled "DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIES OF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168648); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,222, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE OPENING FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168647); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 386,236, entitled "CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168650); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,887, entitled "METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168589); - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,889, entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168590); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,890, entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE AND RETRACTABLE SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168591); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,891, entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THE OUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168592); - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,892, entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO AN ARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168593); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,894, entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168595); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,895, entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATION LOCKOUTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168596); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,916, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168575); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,918, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168618); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,919, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168619); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,921, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168621); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,923, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168623); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,925, entitled "JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF A FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED CARTRIDGE IS INSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168576); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,926, entitled "AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168577); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,928, entitled "PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN A MOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168578); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,930, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENING FEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168579); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,932, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFT ARRANGEMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168628); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,933, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLE LINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168580); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,934, entitled "ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR IN AN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168581); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,935, entitled "LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168582); -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 385,936, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKE AMPLIFICATION FEATURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168583); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 318,996, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONS HAVING DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297228); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,006, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING FASTENER CAVITIES INCLUDING FASTENER CONTROL FEATURES" (U.S. Patent No. 10,010,324); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 318,991, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent No. 9,833,241); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,004, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS" (now U.S. Patent No. 9,844,369); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,008, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297232); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 318,997, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGING MEMBERS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297229); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,002, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES" (U.S. Patent No. 9,877,721); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,013, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVER ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297233); and -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 319,016, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED THERETO" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297235).

[0006] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications, filed on June 24, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 191,775, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 191,807, entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 191,834, entitled "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 191,788, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 191,818, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS."

[0007] The applicant of this application owns the following U.S. patent applications, filed on June 24, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,218, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER"; - U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,227, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER"; - U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,259, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; and -U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,264, entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE."

[0008] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on April 1, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,325, entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,321, entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,326, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,263, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIP PORTION"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,262, entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT SYSTEM"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,277, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVIL CONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,296, entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,258, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,278, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE CUTTING OF TISSUE"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,284, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,295, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSION LOCKOUT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,300, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,196, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,203, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,210, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,324, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,335, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,339, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,253, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OF STAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,304, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,331, entitled "ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,336, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,312, entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUE SUPPORT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,309, entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 089,349, entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL"

[0009] The applicant of this application also owns the following identified U.S. patent applications, filed on December 31, 2015, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 984,488, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 984,525, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 984,552, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUITS."

[0010] The applicant of this application also owns the following identified U.S. patent applications, filed on February 9, 2016, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,220, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,228, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,206, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,215, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,227, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATION LINK ARRANGEMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,235, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLE DRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,230, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAM ARRANGEMENTS"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,245, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS."

[0011] The applicant of this application also owns the following identified U.S. patent applications, filed on February 12, 2016, the contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 043,254, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 043,259, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 043,275, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 043,289, entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS."

[0012] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on June 18, 2015, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,925, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING ARRANGEMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,941, entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSING FEATURES"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,914, entitled "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,900, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAM STRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT"; - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,885, entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 742,876, entitled "PUSH / PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS."

[0013] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on March 6, 2015, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,746, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256184); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,795, entitled "MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 02561185); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,832, entitled "ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURE RATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256154); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,935, entitled "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TO MEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256071); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,831, entitled "MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTOR FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256153); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,859, entitled "TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINE STABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256187); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,817, entitled "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256186); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,844, entitled "CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULAR SHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256155); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,837, entitled "SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256163); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,765, entitled "SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGE INTO A SURGICAL STAPLER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256160); -U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 640,799, entitled "SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON A ROTATABLE SHAFT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256162); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 640,780, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0256161).

[0014] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on February 27, 2015, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,576, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249919); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,546, entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCE PARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249915); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,560, entitled "SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND / OR CONDITIONS ONE OR MORE BATTERIES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249910); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,566, entitled "CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FOR CHARGING A BATTERY" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249918); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,555, entitled "SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TO BE SERVICED" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249916); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,542, entitled "REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249908); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,548, entitled "POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249909); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,526, entitled "ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249945); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,541, entitled "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249927); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 633,562, entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0249917).

[0015] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on December 18, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 574,478, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174977); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 574,483, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174969); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,139, entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174978); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,148, entitled "LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174976); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,130, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLE ABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174972); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,143, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174983); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,117, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174975); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 575,154, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174973); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 574,493, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174970); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 574,500, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0174971).

[0016] The applicant of this application owns the following patent applications, filed on March 1, 2013, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,295, entitled "Articulatable Surgical Instruments With Conductive Pathways For Signal Communication" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246471); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,323, entitled "Rotary Powered Articulation Joints For Surgical Instruments" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246472); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,338, entitled "Thumbwheel Switch Arrangements For Surgical Instruments" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0249557); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,499, entitled "Electromechanical Surgical Device with Signal Relay Arrangement" (U.S. Patent No. 9,358,003); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,460, entitled "Multiple Processor Motor Control For Modular Surgical Instruments" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246478); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,358, entitled "Joystick Switch Assemblies For Surgical Instruments" (U.S. Patent No. 9,326,767); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,481, entitled "Sensor Straightened End Effector During Removal Through Trocar" (U.S. Patent No. 9,468,438); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,518, entitled "Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with Removable Implement Portions" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0246475); - U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 782,375, entitled "Rotary Powered Surgical Instruments With Multiple Degrees of Freedom" (U.S. Patent No. 9,398,911); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 782,536, entitled "Surgical Instrument Soft Stop" (U.S. Patent No. 9,307,986).

[0017] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on March 14, 2013, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,097, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263542); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,193, entitled "CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent No. 9,332,987); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,053, entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263564); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263541); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,210, entitled "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263538); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,148, entitled "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263554); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,066, entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263565); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,117, entitled "ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (now U.S. Patent No. 9,351,726); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,130, entitled "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent No. 9,351,727); and -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,159, entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0277017).

[0018] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on March 7, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 200,111, entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263539).

[0019] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on March 26, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,106, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272582); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,099, entitled "STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272581); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,094, entitled "VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES / PROCEDURE COUNT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272580); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,117, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272574); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,075, entitled "MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272579); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,093, entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272569); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,116, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272571); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,071, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272578); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,097, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272570); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,126, entitled "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272572); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,133, entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272557); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,081, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0277471); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,076, entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0280424); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,111, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0272583); and -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,125, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0280384).

[0020] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on September 5, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,103, entitled "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066912); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,119, entitled "ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066914); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 478,908, entitled "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066910); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 478,895, entitled "MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066909); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,110, entitled "POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066915); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,098, entitled "SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066911); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,115, entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066916); and -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 479,108, entitled "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0066913).

[0021] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on April 9, 2014, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,590, entitled "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305987); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,581, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305989); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,595, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305988); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,588, entitled "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0309666); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,591, entitled "TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305991); - U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,584, entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305994); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,587, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0309665); -U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 248,586, entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305990); -U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 248,607, entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0305992).

[0022] The applicant of this application also owns the following patent applications, filed on April 16, 2013, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference: - U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,365, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR"; - U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,376, entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER"; - U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,382, entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP"; - U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,385, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL"; and -U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 812,372, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR."

[0023] As described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, numerous specific details are described to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments. Well-known operations, components, and elements are not described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described herein. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and exemplary. Variations and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0024] The terms "comprise" (any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (any form of include, such as "includes" and "including"), and "contain" (any form of contain, such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more elements possesses one or more of those elements, but is not limited to possessing only one or more of those elements. Similarly, a system, device, or element of an apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features means that it possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features.

[0025] The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating a handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further understood that for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and / or absolute.

[0026] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein may be used in many surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, those associated with open surgical procedures. As the reader proceeds through the Detailed Description of the Invention section of this specification, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein may be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through a natural opening, through an incision or puncture made in tissue, etc. The working or end effector portions of these instruments may be inserted directly into the patient's body or through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongate shaft of the surgical instrument may be advanced.

[0027] The surgical stapling system can include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw, although other embodiments are envisioned in which the staple cartridge is not removable from the first jaw, or at least not easily replaceable from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about a closure axis, although other embodiments are envisioned in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system further includes an articulation joint configured to allow the end effector to rotate, i.e., articulate, relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are contemplated that do not include an articulation joint.

[0028] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a deck extending between the proximal and distal ends. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of tissue to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil is moved toward the staple cartridge to press and clamp the tissue against the deck. Staples removably stored within the cartridge body can then be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, the staples being removably stored within the staple cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples may be possible.

[0029] The staples are supported by staple drivers within the cartridge body. The drivers are movable between a first or unfired position and a second or fired position that ejects the staples from the staple cavities. The drivers are retained within the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around a bottom of the cartridge body and includes a resilient member configured to grip the cartridge body and hold the retainer against the cartridge body. The drivers are movable between their unfired and fired positions by a sled. The sled is movable between a proximal position adjacent a proximal end and a distal position adjacent a distal end. The sled includes a plurality of ramps configured to slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, on which the staples are supported, toward the anvil.

[0030] In addition to the above, the sled is moved distally by a firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the sled and urge the sled toward the distal end. A longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member further includes a first cam engaging the first jaw and a second cam engaging the second jaw. When advancing the firing member distally, the first cam and the second cam can control the distance between the deck of the staple cartridge and the anvil, i.e., the tissue gap. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut tissue captured intermediate the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable for the knife to be positioned at least partially proximal to the ramp such that the staples are ejected forward of the knife.

[0031] 1 and 3 show a motorized surgical cutting and fastening instrument 1010, which may or may not be reusable. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument 1010 comprises the aforementioned housing 1012 with a handle 1014 configured to be grasped, manipulated, and actuated by a clinician. The housing 1012 is configured to be operably attached to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably coupled to a surgical end effector 1300 configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or procedures. As the detailed description of the present invention progresses, it will be understood that the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein may also be effectively used in connection with a robotically controlled surgical system. Thus, the term "housing" may also encompass a housing or similar portion of a robotic system that contains or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system configured to generate and apply at least one control motion that can be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their respective equivalents. Additionally, various components may be "housed" or included within the housing, or various components may be "associated" with the housing. In such instances, the components may not be included with or directly supported by the housing. The term "frame" may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument. The term "frame" may also refer to a portion of a robotically controlled surgical instrument and / or a portion of a robotic system that may be used to operatively control a surgical instrument. For example, the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein may be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0032] The aforementioned housing 1012 depicted in FIG. 1 is shown connected to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 (FIGS. 2, 4, and 5) that includes an end effector 1300 that includes a surgical cutting and fastening device configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 4000 therein. The housing 1012 may be configured for use in connection with interchangeable shaft assemblies having various shaft lengths, sizes, and types, including end effectors adapted to support various sizes and types of staple cartridges. In addition, the housing 1012 may also be effectively used in connection with a variety of other interchangeable shaft assemblies, including assemblies configured to apply, for example, motion and other forms of energy, such as radio frequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy, and / or motion, to end effector configurations adapted for use in connection with various surgical applications and procedures. Furthermore, the end effectors, shaft assemblies, handles, surgical instruments, and / or surgical instrument systems may utilize any suitable fastener(s) to fasten tissue. For example, a fastener cartridge having a plurality of fasteners removably stored therein may be removably inserted into and / or attached to an end effector of a shaft assembly.

[0033] FIG. 1 illustrates a surgical instrument 1010 including an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably coupled to a housing 1012. FIG. 2 illustrates the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 removed from the housing 1012 or handle 1014. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the handle 1014 can include a pair of interconnectable housing segments 1016 and 1018 that can be interconnected by screws, snap mechanisms, adhesives, or the like. In the illustrated configuration, the handle housing segments 1016, 1018 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 1019 that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As described in more detail below, the handle 1014 operably supports a number of drive systems therein that are configured to generate and apply various control motions to corresponding portions of the interchangeable shaft assembly operably attached to the handle.

[0034] 3, the handle 1014 may further include a frame 1020 that operably supports a number of drive systems. For example, the frame 1020 may operably support a "first" or closure drive system, generally designated 1030, that may be used to apply an opening and closing motion to an operably attached or coupled interchangeable shaft assembly 1200. In at least one form, the closure drive system 1030 may include an actuator in the form of a closure trigger 1032 that is pivotally supported by the frame 1020. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the closure trigger 1032 is pivotally coupled to the housing 1014 by a pin 1033. Such an arrangement allows the closure trigger 1032 to be manipulated by a clinician. Specifically, when a clinician grasps the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the closure trigger 1032 can be easily pivoted from a starting or “unactuated” position to an “actuated” position, more specifically, a fully grasped or fully actuated position. The closure trigger 1032 may be biased to the unactuated position by a spring or other biasing mechanism (not shown). In various forms, the closure drive system 1030 further includes a closure linkage assembly 1034 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032. As shown in FIG. 3, the closure linkage assembly 1034 may include a first closure link 1036 and a second closure link 1038 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032 by a pin 1035. The second closure link 1038, sometimes referred to herein as a “mounting member,” includes a lateral mounting pin 1037.

[0035] With continued reference to FIG. 3, it can be observed that the first closure link 1036 may have a locking wall or end 1039 thereon configured to cooperate with a closure release assembly 1060 pivotally coupled to the frame 1020. In at least one form, the closure release assembly 1060 may include a release button assembly 1062 having a distally projecting locking pawl 1064 formed thereon. The release button assembly 1062 may be pivoted in a counterclockwise direction by a release spring (not shown). When the clinician depresses the closure trigger 1032 from its unactuated position towards the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the first closure link 1036 pivots upwardly towards a point where the locking pawl 1064 comes into retaining engagement with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036, thereby preventing the closure trigger 1032 from returning to the unactuated position. The closure release assembly 1060 thus acts to lock the closure trigger 1032 in a fully actuated position. When the clinician wishes to unlock the closure trigger 1032 so that it can be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician simply pivots the closure release button assembly 1062, thereby moving the locking pawl 1064 out of engagement with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036. When the locking pawl 1064 has been moved out of engagement with the first closure link 1036, the closure trigger 1032 may pivot back to the unactuated configuration. Other closure trigger lock and release mechanisms may be used.

[0036] An arm 1061 may extend from the closure release button 1062. A magnetic element 1063, such as, for example, a permanent magnet, may be attached to the arm 1061. When the closure release button 1062 is rotated from its first position to a second position, the magnetic element 1063 may move toward the circuit board 1100. The circuit board 1100 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the movement of the magnetic element 1063. In at least one embodiment, for example, a "Hall effect" sensor (not shown) may be attached to the underside of the circuit board 1100. The Hall effect sensor may be configured to detect a change in a magnetic field surrounding the Hall effect sensor caused by the movement of the magnetic element 1063. The Hall effect sensor can, for example, be capable of signal communication with a microcontroller to determine whether the closure release button 1062 is in a first position associated with an unactuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and an open configuration of the end effector, in a second position associated with an actuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and a closed configuration of the end effector, and / or in any position between the first and second positions.

[0037] In at least one form, the handle 1014 and frame 1020 may operatively support another drive system, referred to herein as a firing drive system 1080, configured to apply a firing motion to a corresponding portion of an attached interchangeable shaft assembly. The firing drive system 1080 may also be referred to herein as a "second drive system." The firing drive system 1080 may employ an electric motor 1082 located within the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014. In various forms, the motor 1082 may be a brushed DC drive motor having a maximum rotational speed of, for example, about 25,000 RPM. In other configurations, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 1082 may be powered by a power source 1090, and in one form, may include a removable power pack 1092. For example, as seen in FIG. 3 , the power pack 1092 may include a proximal housing portion 1094 configured to attach to a distal housing portion 1096. The proximal housing portion 1094 and the distal housing portion 1096 are configured to operably support a plurality of batteries 1098 therein. The batteries 1098 may each include, for example, Lithium Ion (LI) or other suitable batteries. The distal housing portion 1096 is configured to be removably and operably attached to a circuit board assembly 1100 that is also operably coupled to the motor 1082. Multiple batteries 1098, which may be connected in series, may be used as a power source for the surgical instrument 1010. Additionally, the power source 1090 may be replaceable and / or rechargeable.

[0038] As generally described above in relation to various other configurations, the electric motor 1082 includes a rotatable shaft (not shown) that may be in operative communication with a gear reducer assembly 1084 mounted in meshing engagement with a set or rack of drive teeth 1122 on a longitudinally movable drive member 1120. In use, the voltage polarity provided by the power source 1090 may cause the electric motor 1082 to operate in a clockwise direction, but the voltage polarity applied to the electric motor by the battery may be reversed to cause the electric motor 1082 to operate in a counterclockwise direction. When the electric motor 1082 is rotated in one direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in a distal direction "DD". When the motor 1082 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in a proximal direction "PD". The handle 1014 may include a switch that may be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 1082 by the power source 1090. As with other configurations described herein, the handle 1014 may also include a sensor configured to detect the position of the drive member 1120 and / or the direction in which the drive member 1120 is being moved.

[0039] Actuation of the motor 1082 may be controlled by a firing trigger 1130 pivotally supported on the handle 1014. The firing trigger 1130 may pivot between an inactivated position and an activated position. The firing trigger 1130 may be biased to the inactivated position by a spring 1132 or other biasing device such that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 1130, it may be pivoted or otherwise returned to the inactivated position by the spring 1132 or other biasing device. In at least one form, the firing trigger 1130 may be located "outside" the closure trigger 132, as described above. In at least one form, a firing trigger safety button 1134 may be pivotally attached to the closure trigger 1032 by a pin 1035. The safety button 1134 may have a pivot arm 1136 positioned between and projecting from the firing trigger 1130 and the closure trigger 1032. See FIG. 21. When the closure trigger 1032 is in the unactuated position, the safety button 1134 is housed in the handle 1014. It is not easily accessible to the clinician and cannot be moved between a safety position that prevents actuation of the firing trigger 1130 and a firing position in which the firing trigger 1130 may be fired. When the clinician presses the closure trigger 1032, the safety button 1134 and the firing trigger 1130 pivot down, allowing them to then be operated by the clinician.

[0040] As shown above, in at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 has a rack of teeth 1122 formed thereon for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear 1086 of the gear reducer assembly 1084. At least one form also includes a manually actuated “emergency breakaway” assembly 1140 configured to allow a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 if the motor 1082 is disabled. The emergency breakaway assembly 1140 may include a lever or emergency breakaway handle assembly 1142 configured to be manually pivoted to ratchet engagement with teeth 1124 also provided on the drive member 1120. Thus, a clinician can manually retract the drive member 1120 using the emergency breakaway handle assembly 1142 to ratchet the drive member 1120 in the proximal direction “PD”. U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM," discloses an emergency release mechanism, as well as other components, mechanisms, and systems that may also be used with the various instruments disclosed herein. U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0041] 2 and 5, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a surgical end effector 1300 including an elongated channel 1310 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 4000 therein. The end effector 1300 may further include an anvil 2000 pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 1310. The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulation joint 3020 and an articulation lock 2140 that may be configured to releasably hold the end effector 1300 at a desired position relative to the shaft axis SA. Examples of various features of at least one aspect of the end effector 1300, the articulation joint 3020, and the articulation lock are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 803,086, filed March 14, 2013, and entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK." The entire disclosure of U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, filed March 14, 2013, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK" is incorporated herein by reference. As can be seen in FIG. 4, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can further comprise a proximal housing or nozzle 1201 comprised of nozzle portions 1202 and 1203.

[0042] The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can further include a closure system or closure member assembly 3000 that can be utilized to open and close the anvil 2000 of the end effector 1300. The shaft assembly 1200 includes a spine 1210 that can be configured to (1) slidably support a firing member therein and (2) slidably support a closure member assembly 3000 extending about the spine 1210. As shown in FIG. 5 , the distal end 1211 of the spine 1210 terminates in an upper lug attachment mechanism 1270 and a lower lug attachment mechanism 1280. The upper lug attachment mechanism 1270 is formed with a lug slot 1272 therein that can mount and support an upper attachment link 1274 therein. Similarly, the lower lug attachment mechanism 1280 is formed with a lug slot 1282 therein that is adapted to mount and support a lower mounting link 1284. The upper mounting link 1274 includes a pivot socket 1276 therein that is adapted to rotatably receive a pivot pin 1292 formed on a channel cap or anvil retainer 1290 that is attached to the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. The lower mounting link 1284 includes a lower pivot pin 1286 that can be received in a pivot hole 1314 formed in the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. See FIG. 5. The lower pivot pin 1286 is vertically aligned with the pivot socket 1276 and defines an articulation axis AA about which the surgical end effector 1300 can articulate relative to the shaft axis SA. See FIG.

[0043] In the depicted example, the surgical end effector 1300 is selectively articulatable about an articulation axis AA by an articulation system 2100. In one form, the articulation system 2100 includes a proximal articulation drive 2102 pivotally coupled to an articulation link 2120. As can be seen most particularly in FIG. 5 , an offset mounting lug 2114 is formed on a distal end 2112 of the proximal articulation drive 2102. A pivot hole 2116 is formed in the offset mounting lug 2114 and is configured to pivotally receive therein a proximal link pin 2124 formed on a proximal end 2122 of the articulation link 3020. A distal end 2126 of the articulation link 2120 includes a pivot hole 2128 configured to pivotally receive therein a channel pin 1317 formed on a proximal end portion 1312 of the elongate channel 1310. Axial movement of the proximal articulation drive 2102 thus applies articulation to the elongate channel 1310, which causes the surgical end effector 1300 to articulate about the articulation axis AA relative to the spine assembly 1210. Further details regarding the construction and operation of the articulation system 2100 can be found in various references incorporated herein by reference, such as U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 635,631, filed June 28, 2017, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In various circumstances, when the proximal articulation drive 2102 is not moving proximally or distally, the proximal articulation drive 2102 may be maintained in place by a joint lock 2140. Further details regarding examples of joint locks 2140 can be found in US patent application Ser. No. 15 / 635,631, and other references incorporated by reference herein.

[0044] In various circumstances, the spine 1210 can include a proximal end 1211 that is rotatably supported within the chassis 1240. In one configuration, for example, the proximal end 1211 of the spine 1210 is threaded 1214 for threaded attachment to a spine bearing 1216 that is configured to be supported within the chassis 1240. See FIG. 4. Such a configuration facilitates rotatable attachment of the spine 1210 to the chassis 1240 such that the spine 1210 can be selectively rotated relative to the chassis 1240 about the shaft axis SA.

[0045] 4, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a closure shuttle 1250 slidably supported therein such that it may be moved axially relative to the chassis 1240. The closure shuttle 1250 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1252 that are configured to attach to a mounting pin 1037 (FIGS. 2 and 3) that is attached to the second closure link 1038, as described in further detail below. In at least one example, the closure member assembly 3000 includes a proximal closure member segment 3010 having a proximal end 3012 coupled to the closure shuttle 1250 for rotation relative thereto. For example, the U-shaped connector 1263 is inserted into an annular slot 3014 at the proximal end 3012 of the proximal closure member segment 3010 and retained within a vertical slot 1253 in the closure shuttle 1250. With this configuration, the proximal closure tube segment 3010 and the closure shuttle 1250 are mounted for axial movement together while the proximal closure tube segment 3010 is rotatable relative to the closure shuttle 1250 about the shaft axis SA. A closure spring 1268 is journalled on the proximal closure member 3010 and serves to bias the proximal closure member 3010 in the proximal direction "PD". When the shaft assembly is operably coupled to the handle 1014, this bias can pivot the closure trigger 1032 to an unactuated position.

[0046] In at least one form, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may further include an articulation joint 3020. However, other interchangeable shaft assemblies may not be articulatable. As shown in FIG. 5, for example, a distal closure member or distal closure tube segment 3030 is coupled to a distal end of a proximal closure member or proximal closure tube segment 3010. The articulation joint 3020 includes a dual pivoting closure sleeve assembly 3022. According to various forms, the dual pivoting closure sleeve assembly 3022 includes an end effector closure tube 3050 having an upper distally projecting tang 3052 and a lower distally projecting tang 3054. The upper double pivot link 3056 includes an upwardly projecting distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that engage with an upper distal pin hole of an upper proximally projecting tang 3052 on the distal closure tube segment 3030 and the proximal pivot pin engages with an upper proximal pin hole of the upper distally projecting tang 3032. The lower double pivot link 3058 includes an upwardly projecting distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that engages with a lower distal pin hole of a lower proximally projecting tang 3054 and the proximal pivot pin engages with a lower proximal pin hole of the lower distally projecting tang 3034. See FIGS. 4 and 5. As described in more detail below, for example, in response to actuation of the closure trigger 1032, the closure tube assembly 3000 is translated in a distal direction (direction DD) to close the anvil 2000. The anvil 2000 is opened by translating the closure tube assembly 3000 proximally, which causes the end effector closure sleeve to interact with the anvil 2000 and pivot to an open position.

[0047] As also described above, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 further includes a firing member 1900 supported for axial movement within the shaft spine 1210. The firing member 1900 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 configured to be attached to a distal cutting portion or knife bar 1910. The intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 includes a longitudinal slot 1223 at its distal end, which may be configured to receive a tab 1912 at a proximal end of the distal knife bar 1910. The longitudinal slot 1223 and the proximal end tab 1912 may be sized and configured to permit relative movement therebetween and may include a slip joint. The slip joint 1914 may permit the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the firing drive to move to articulate the end effector 1300 without moving, or at least substantially without moving, the knife bar 1910. Once the end effector 1300 is properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 can be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1223 contacts the tab 1912 to advance the knife bar 1910 and fire the staple cartridge 4000 located within the channel 1310. The knife bar 1910 includes a knife portion 1920 that includes a blade or tissue cutting edge 1922, and includes an upper anvil engagement tab 1924 and a lower channel engagement tab 1926. The configurations and operation of the various firing members are disclosed in various other references, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0048] As can be seen in FIG. 4, the shaft assembly 1200 further includes a switch drum 1500 that is rotatably received on the closure tube 1260. The switch drum 1500 includes a hollow shaft segment 1502 having a shaft boss formed therein for receiving an outwardly protruding actuation pin. Under various circumstances, the actuation pin extends through the slot into a longitudinal slot in the locking sleeve to assist in axial movement of the locking sleeve when the locking sleeve is engaged with an articulation drive. The rotary torsion spring 1420 is configured to engage a boss on the switch drum 1500 and a portion of the nozzle housing 1203 to apply a biasing force to the switch drum 1500. The switch drum 1500 may further include an at least partially circumferential opening 1506 defined therein that may be configured to receive a circumferential mount extending from the nozzle halves 1202, 1203 and to permit relative rotation but not translation between the switch drum 1500 and the proximal nozzle 1201. The mount also extends through an opening 3011 in the proximal closure tube segment 3010 to fit within a recess 1219 in the spine shaft 1210. Rotation of the switch drum 1500 about the shaft axis SA ultimately rotates the actuation pin and locking sleeve between their engaged and disengaged positions. In one configuration, rotation of the switch drum 1500 may be coupled to axial advancement of the closure tube or closure member. Thus, essentially, actuation of the closure system may operatively engage and disengage the firing drive system and the articulation drive system in a variety of ways as described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 803,086 and U.S. Patent No. 9,913,642, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM," the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. For example, the closure tube segment 3010 positions the switch drum 1500 to link the articulation system with the firing drive system when the closure tube is in a proximal-most position corresponding to a "jaws open" position.When the closure tube is moved to a distal position corresponding to a "jaws closed" position, it rotates the switch drum 1500 to a position where the articulation system is unlinked from the firing drive system.

[0049] 4, the shaft assembly 1200 can include a slip ring assembly 1600 that can be configured to, for example, conduct power to and / or communicate signals to the end effector 1300. The slip ring assembly 1600 can include a proximal connector flange 1604 mounted to a chassis flange 1242 extending from the chassis 1240 and a distal connector flange positioned in a slot defined in the shaft housing. The proximal connector flange 1604 can include a first surface and the distal connector flange can include a second surface positioned adjacent to and movable relative to the first surface. The distal connector flange can rotate relative to the proximal connector flange 1604 about the shaft axis SA. The proximal connector flange 1604 can include a plurality of concentric, or at least substantially concentric, conductors defined in its first surface. A connector may be mounted to the proximal portion of the connector flange, and the connector may have a number of contacts, each of which corresponds to and is in electrical contact with one of the conductors. Such a configuration allows the proximal connector flange 1604 and the distal connector flange to rotate relative to one another while maintaining electrical contact therebetween. The proximal connector flange 1604 may include an electrical connector 1606, for example, that may place conductors in signal communication with a shaft circuit board 1610 mounted to the shaft chassis 1240. In at least one example, a wiring harness comprising a number of conductors may extend between the electrical connector 1606 and the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1606 may extend proximally through a connector opening 1243 defined in the chassis mounting flange 1242. See FIG. 4.Further details regarding the slip ring assembly 1600 can be found, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 803,086, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 800,067, filed Mar. 13, 2013, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM,” and U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481, entitled “STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM.” U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 803,086, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 800,067, and U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481 are each incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0050] As described above, the shaft assembly 1200 may include a proximal portion fixably attached to the handle 1014 and a distal portion rotatable about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portion may be rotated relative to the proximal portion about the slip ring assembly 1600, as described above. The distal connector flange of the slip ring assembly 1600 may be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. In addition to the above, the switch drum 1500 may also be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. Rotation of the rotatable distal shaft portion may cause the distal connector flange and the switch drum 1500 to rotate synchronously with one another. Additionally, the switch drum 1500 may be rotated between a first position and a second position relative to the distal connector flange. When the switch drum 1500 is in its first position, the articulation drive system may be operatively disengaged from the firing drive system, such that the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200 cannot be articulated by operation of the firing drive system. When the switch drum 1500 is in its second position, the articulation drive system may be operatively engaged with the firing drive system such that operation of the firing drive system can articulate the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200. Moving the switch drum 1500 between its first position and its second position causes the switch drum 1500 to move relative to the distal connector flange. In various examples, the shaft assembly 1200 can include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of the switch drum 1500.

[0051] Referring again to FIG. 4, the chassis 1240 includes at least one, and preferably two, tapered mounting portions 1244 formed thereon that are adapted to be received in corresponding dovetail slots 1702 formed in a distal mounting flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. See FIG. 3. Each dovetail slot 1702 may be tapered, or in other words somewhat V-shaped, to seat and receive the mounting portion 1244 therein. As can be further seen in FIG. 22, a shaft mounting lug 1226 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate firing shaft 1222. As will be described in more detail below, when the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is coupled to the handle 1014, the shaft mounting lug 1226 is received in a firing shaft mounting cradle 1126 formed in the distal end 1125 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. See FIG. 3.

[0052] Various shaft assembly embodiments employ a latch system 1710 to removably couple the shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012, and more particularly to the frame 1020. As seen in FIG. 4, for example, in at least one form, the latch system 1710 includes a locking member or locking yoke 1712 that is movably coupled to the chassis 1240. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the locking yoke 1712 has a U-shape with two spaced apart, downwardly extending legs 1714. Each of the legs 1714 is formed with a pivot lug 1715 that is adapted to be received within a corresponding hole 1245 formed in the chassis 1240. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotally mounting the locking yoke 1712 to the chassis 1240. The locking yoke 1712 may include two proximally projecting locking lugs 1716 that are configured to releasably engage corresponding locking detents or grooves 1704 of the distal mounting flange 1700 of the frame 1020. See FIG. 3. In various forms, the locking yoke 1712 is proximally biased by a spring or biasing member (not shown). Actuation of the locking yoke 1712 may be accomplished by a latch button 1722 that is slidably mounted on a latch actuator assembly 1720 that is mounted to the chassis 1240. The latch button 1722 may be biased proximally relative to the locking yoke 1712. As described in more detail below, the locking yoke 1712 may be moved to an unlocked position by distally biasing the latch button, which causes the locking yoke 1712 to pivot out of retaining engagement with the distal mounting flange 1700 of the frame 1020. When the locking yoke 1712 is in “retaining engagement” with the distal mounting flange 1700 of the frame 1020 , the locking lugs 1716 are retained and seated within corresponding locking detents or grooves 1704 in the distal mounting flange 1700 .

[0053] When using interchangeable shaft assemblies, including end effectors of the types described herein adapted to cut and fasten tissue, as well as other types of end effectors, it may be desirable to prevent the interchangeable shaft assembly from being inadvertently separated from the housing during actuation of the end effector. For example, in use, a clinician may actuate the closure trigger 1032 to grasp and manipulate the target tissue into a desired position. Once the target tissue is positioned in the end effector 1300 at a desired orientation, the clinician may then fully actuate the closure trigger 1032 to close the anvil 1306 and clamp the target tissue in place for cutting and stapling. In that case, the first drive system 1030 is fully actuated. After the target tissue is clamped to the end effector 1300, it may be desirable to prevent the shaft assembly 1200 from being inadvertently separated from the housing 1012. One form of the latch system 1710 is configured to prevent such inadvertent separation.

[0054] As seen most particularly in FIG. 4 , the locking yoke 1712 includes at least one, and preferably two, locking hooks 1718 that are adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1256 formed on the closure shuttle 1250. When the closure shuttle 1250 is in an unactuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is unactuated and the anvil 1306 is open), the locking yoke 1712 may be pivoted distally to unlock the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 from the housing 1012. In that position, the locking hooks 1718 are not in contact with the locking protrusion portions 1256 of the closure shuttle 1250. However, moving the closure shuttle 1250 to an actuated position (i.e., the first drive system 1030 is actuated and the anvil 1306 is in a closed position) prevents the locking yoke 1712 from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if a clinician attempts to pivot the locking yoke 1712 to the unlocked position or, for example, if something unintentionally bumps into or contacts the locking yoke 1712 which would cause the locking yoke 1712 to pivot distally without the mechanism described below, the locking hook 1718 on the locking yoke 1712 will contact the locking lug 1256 on the closure shuttle 1250 and prevent the locking yoke 1712 from moving to the unlocked position.

[0055] The attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 is described below. To begin the coupling process, the clinician may position the chassis 1240 of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 above or adjacent to the distal mounting flange 1700 of the frame 1020 such that the tapered mounting portion 1244 formed on the chassis 1240 is aligned with the dovetail slot 1702 of the frame 1020. The clinician may then move the shaft assembly 1200 along a mounting axis perpendicular to the shaft axis SA to seat the mounting portion 1244 in "operable engagement" with the corresponding dovetail receiving slot 1702. In so doing, the shaft mounting lug 1226 on the intermediate firing shaft 1222 also seats in the cradle 1126 of the longitudinally movable drive member 1120, and a portion of the pin 1037 on the second closure link 1038 seats in a corresponding hook 1252 of the closure yoke 1250. As used herein, the term "operably engaged" in the context of two components means that the two components are sufficiently engaged with one another such that, upon application of an actuation action thereto, the components can perform an intended act, function, and / or procedure.

[0056] At least five systems of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can be operably coupled to at least five corresponding systems of the handle 1014. A first system can include a frame system that couples and / or aligns a frame or spine of the shaft assembly 1200 with a frame 1020 of the handle 1014. Another system can include a closure drive system 1030 that can operably connect a closure trigger 1032 of the handle 1014, a closure tube 1260, and an anvil 2000 of the shaft assembly 1200. As generally described above, a closure tube mounting yoke 1250 of the shaft assembly 1200 can be engaged with a pin 1037 of a second closure link 1038. Another system can include a firing drive system 1080 that can operably connect a firing trigger 1130 of the handle 1014 with an intermediate firing shaft 1222 of the shaft assembly 1200. As outlined above, the shaft mounting lugs 1226 can be operatively connected to the cradle 1126 of the longitudinal drive member 1120. Another system can include an electrical system that can signal to a controller in the handle 1014, such as, for example, a microcontroller, that a shaft assembly, such as, for example, the shaft assembly 1200, is operatively engaged with the handle 1014, and / or secondly, can conduct power and / or communication signals between the shaft assembly 1200 and the handle 1014. As an example, the shaft assembly 1200 can include an electrical connector 1810 operably mounted to the shaft circuit board 1610. The electrical connector 1810 is configured to conformally engage with a corresponding electrical connector 1800 on the handle control board 1100. Further details regarding the circuitry and control system can be found in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 13 / 803,086 and 14 / 226,142, the entire disclosures of each of which have been previously incorporated herein by reference. A fifth system may comprise a latching system that releasably locks the shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 .

[0057] 5-7, the anvil 2000 in the illustrated example includes an anvil body 2002 terminating in an anvil mounting portion 2010. The anvil mounting portion 2010 is movably or pivotally supported on the elongated channel 1310 and selectively pivotally movable relative to the elongated channel 1310 about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA transverse to the shaft axis SA. In the illustrated configuration, a pivot member or anvil trunnion 2012 extends laterally from each lateral side of the anvil mounting portion 2010 and is received in a corresponding trunnion cradle 1316 formed in an upstanding wall 1315 of the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310. The anvil trunnion 2012 is pivotally retained in the corresponding trunnion cradle 1316 by a channel cap or anvil retainer 1290. The channel cap or anvil retainer 1290 has a pair of mounting lugs configured to be received and retained within corresponding lug grooves or notches formed in the upstanding wall 1315 of the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310.

[0058] 7, 8, and 9, in at least one configuration, the distal closure member or end effector closure tube 3050 employs two axially offset proximal and distal positive jaw opening mechanisms 3060 and 3062. In FIG. 7, the proximal positive jaw opening mechanism 2060 is positioned to the right of the shaft axis SA (as viewed by the user of the tool assembly). The positive jaw opening mechanisms 3060, 3062 are configured to interact with corresponding relief areas 3064, 3066 and with stepped portions formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010, as described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 635,631, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER," filed June 28, 2017, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Other jaw opening configurations may be used.

[0059] 6 and 7 show one form of anvil 2000 including an elongated anvil body portion 2002 terminating in an attachment portion 2010 configured to interface with an end effector closure sleeve 3050. As the anvil 2000 moves from a fully open position to a closed position and finally to an over-closed position, the amount of resulting force experienced by the end effector closure tube 3050 is minimized. The anvil body portion 2002 includes a staple forming lower surface 2004 having a series of anvil forming pockets (not shown) formed therein. An elongated slot 2006 extends through the body portion 2002 and the attachment portion 2010 to facilitate passage of the knife portion or "firing member" 1920. Additionally, an anvil cover 2030 is attached to the anvil body 2002 to cover the slot 2006. In various circumstances, the anvil mounting portion 2010 includes an anvil cam surface 2020 formed thereon. The anvil cam surface 2020 is bisected or otherwise divided by an elongated slot 2006. As seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030 is oriented at an angle corresponding to the angle / orientation of the anvil cam surface 2020. FIGS. 10 and 11 show the anvil 2000 in a fully open position. As seen in FIG. 10, when the "second jaw" or anvil 2000 is in its fully open position, the distal or end effector closure tube 3050 is in its proximal-most position. When in that position, the cam surface 3072 formed on the distal end 3070 of the end effector closure tube 3050 does not exert any closure force on the cam closure surface 2020. As the end effector closure tube 3050 is moved distally, the cam surface 3072 on the end effector closure tube 3050 contacts the cam closure surface 2020 on the anvil mounting portion 2010 and the corresponding closure surface 2034 on the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cover 2030, pivoting the anvil 2000 to the "closed" position. Figures 12 and 13 show the positions of the end effector closure tube 3050 and the anvil 2000 when the anvil 2000 is in the closed position.

[0060] As the end effector closure tube 3050 continues to advance distally, exerting further closure motion on the anvil and ultimately moving it to an "over-closed" position, the end effector closure tube is subjected to a significant amount of stress which over time may cause the end effector closure tube to elongate vertically (when viewed from one end) or, alternatively, the shape of the end effector closure tube to become somewhat elliptical which may eventually lead to failure or impair its ability to reach a fully closed position. It is self-evident that when a thin-walled tube or cylinder is subjected to internal pressure, "hoop-like" and longitudinal stresses are generated in the tube walls. This hoop stress acts circumferentially and perpendicularly to the axis and radius of the cylinder wall. Such hoop stress may be calculated as follows: σ h = pd / (2t), where σ h = hoop stress (MPa, psi) p = internal pressure in the pipe or cylinder (MPa, psi) d = inner diameter of tube or cylinder (mm, in) t = tube or cylinder wall thickness (mm, in) End effector closure tubes having a variety of tube wall configurations have been developed, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15 / 385,903, filed Dec. 21, 2016, entitled "CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0061] 8 and 9 show one form of an end effector closure tube 3050. The closure tube 3050 includes an outer surface 3074 and an inner wall surface 3076. In at least one form, the closure tube 3050 has a constant inner diameter ID and a constant outer diameter OD. A wall thickness CT defined by the inner diameter ID and outer diameter OD is uniform or constant throughout the length of the closure tube 3050 or at least the portion of the closure tube 3050 that is configured to interface with the jaws of an end effector, such as the anvil 2000 and the elongate channel 1310.

[0062] 12, in at least one configuration, when the anvil 2000 is in the "closed position," a clearance distance "CD" can be observed between the cartridge deck surface of the cartridge, which is supported in the elongate channel 1310 when no tissue is clamped between the anvil 2000 and the cartridge, and the staple forming lower surface 2004 of the anvil body 2002. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12, across the closure cam surface 2020, through a distal end portion of the end effector closure tube 3050, and through the anvil attachment portion 2020 and the proximal end portion of the elongate channel 1310. As can be seen in this view, a variable closure force CF is applied to the anvil 2000 and the elongate channel 1310 by the end effector closure tube 3050. For example, a closure force CF is applied to the closure cam surface 2020 , the proximal end portion 2032 of the anvil cap 2030 , and the elongated channel 1310 .

[0063] In the example shown in Figures 6-15, the anvil mounting portion 2020 is configured to provide a plurality of individual load transfer locations that are configured to be contacted by an inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050 when the end effector closure tube 3050 is in a position corresponding to the closed position of the anvil 2000. In at least one configuration, at least two individual load transfer locations are located on either side of a vertical plane VP that bisects the anvil 2000 when the anvil 2000 is in the closed position. For example, in Figure 13, a first right load transfer location or edge 2070R, a second right load transfer location or edge 2072R, a third right load transfer location or edge 2074R, and a fourth right load transfer location or edge 2076R are formed on the right side of the vertical plane VP. Similarly, a first left load transfer location or edge 2070L, a second left load transfer location or edge 2072L, a third left load transfer location or edge 2074L, and a fourth left load transfer location or edge 2076L are formed to the left of the vertical plane VP. As used in this context, the term "at least two respective load transfer locations" means that the load transfer locations are formed relative to one another such that a space or clearance is formed between the portions of the anvil mounting portion 2010 extending between the load transfer locations and the inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050.

[0064] For example, a first amount of clearance CR1 is formed between the portion extending between the first right load transfer location 2070R and the second right load transfer location 2072R and the inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube 3050. A second amount of clearance CR2 is formed between the portion extending between the third right load transfer location 2072R and the third right load transfer location 2074R and the inner surface of the end effector closure tube 3050. A third amount of clearance CR3 is formed between the third right load transfer location 2074R and the fourth right load transfer location 2076R. A first amount of clearance CL1 is formed between the portion extending between the first left load transfer location 2070L and the second left load transfer location 2072L and the inner surface of the end effector closure tube. A second amount of clearance CL2 is formed between the portion extending between the second left load transfer location 2072L and the third left load transfer location 2074L and the inner surface 3076 of the end effector closure tube. A third amount of clearance CL3 is formed between the third left load transfer location 2074L and the fourth left load transfer location 2076L. In at least one configuration, a closure force CF applied to the closure cam surface 2020 and the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cap 2030 can be evenly distributed between the first right load transfer location 2070R and the first left load transfer location 2070L. Similarly, a closure force CF applied to the elongate channel 1310 can be evenly distributed between, for example, the fourth right load transfer location 2076R and the fourth left load transfer location 2076L.

[0065] In at least one configuration, the at least two right load transfer locations 2070R, 2072R and the at least two left load transfer locations 2070L, 2072L are positioned on one side of a horizontal plane HP that bisects the end effector 1300. As shown in Fig. 13, the two right load transfer locations 2070R, 2072R are positioned on opposite sides of the vertical plane VP from the two left load transfer locations 2070L, 2072L. Also, in at least one configuration, the third right load transfer location 2074R and the fourth right load transfer location 2076R are positioned on opposite sides of the horizontal plane HP from the first right load transfer location 2070R and the second right load transfer location 2072R. Similarly, the third left load transfer location 2074L and the fourth left load transfer location 2076L are positioned opposite the first left load transfer location 2070L and the second left load transfer location 2072L with respect to the horizontal plane HP. The right load transfer locations 2074R, 2076R are positioned opposite the two left load transfer locations 2074L, 2076L with respect to the vertical plane VP. As seen in Figures 6 and 10, the load transfer locations may be formed by corrugations or relief areas 2080, 2082, 2084 to include corners formed from adjacent surfaces. Other load transfer location shapes are also contemplated.

[0066] 14 and 15 show the anvil 2000 and end effector closure tube 3050 in an "over-closed" condition, which is a condition formed when the end effector closure tube 3050 is advanced further distally after the anvil 2000 reaches the closed position. In at least one example, the anvil 2000 is in the over-closed condition when the distal end portion 2003 of the body portion 2002 of the anvil 2000 is in contact with a cartridge deck of a staple cartridge operably supported in the elongated channel 1310. See FIG. 14. Continued distal advancement of the end effector closure tube 3050 after the anvil 2000 reaches the closed position can significantly increase the hoop stress formed in the end effector closure tube 3050, which can cause the end effector closure tube to either effectively fail or stretch vertically, detrimentally affecting the anvil's ability to close properly when used in future applications. 15, the first right clearance amount CR1 and the first left clearance amount CL1 may each have a clearance width CW1 located on a common side of a horizontal plane HP. 2、 and the second left clearance amount CL2 each extend across the horizontal plane HP. In other words, a portion of the second right clearance amount CR2 is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP, and a portion of the second left clearance amount CL2 is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP.

[0067] By providing at least two individual load transfer locations located on each side of the vertical plane, the amount of detrimental hoop stresses created within the end effector closure tube 3050 as it moves distally to the over-closed position can be reduced. By providing at least three load transfer locations located on each side of the vertical plane, the amount of detrimental hoop stresses created within the end effector closure tube 3050 as it moves distally to the over-closed position can be further reduced. By providing at least four load transfer locations located on each side of the vertical plane, the amount of detrimental hoop stresses created within the end effector closure tube 3050 as it moves distally to the over-closed position can be further reduced. Such a configuration thus allows the end effector closure tube 3050 to be made with a constant wall thickness as described above, which can reduce the amount of manufacturing costs associated with manufacturing the end effector closure tube.

[0068] 16-22 illustrate an anvil 2000' that is substantially identical to the anvil 2000 described above, except for the differences noted below. As seen in FIG. 16, the anvil mounting portion 2010' is formed with a continuous arcuate anvil cam surface 2020' that is uninterrupted by any load transfer position. FIGS. 17 and 18 show the anvil 2000' in its fully open position. As seen in FIG. 17, when the "second jaw" or anvil 2000' is in its fully open position, the end effector closure tube 3050' is in its most proximal position. When in that position, the end effector closure tube 3050' does not exert any closure force on the cam closure surface 2020'.

[0069] 23 illustrates one form of an end effector closure tube 3050' that may be identical to the end effector closure tube 3050 described above, except for the differences described below. The end effector closure tube 3050' includes an outer surface 3074' and an inner wall surface 3076'. In at least one form, the closure tube 3050' has a constant wall thickness WT1, with the exception of wall segment A located at the top of the end effector closure tube 3050'. s has a wall thickness WT2 that is greater than WT1. Such a configuration forms a single load transfer location 2070'.

[0070] 19 and 20 show the position of the end effector closure tube 3050' and the anvil 2000' when the anvil 2000' is in the closed position. As seen in FIG. 20, as the end effector closure tube 3050' moves distally, the load transfer location 2070' on the end effector closure tube 3050' contacts the cam surface 2034 on the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cap 2030. The end effector closure tube 3050' also contacts each of the portions of the elongated channel 1310 on either side of the vertical plane VP that bisects the end effector. As shown in FIG. 20, the load transfer location 2070' can extend across the cam surface 2034 to contact the top of the cam surface 2020' on each side of the vertical plane VP. 19 and 20, such configuration serves to form a space 3077 between a corresponding portion of the inner surface 3076' of the end effector closure tube 3050' and the cam surface 2020' of the anvil mounting portion 2010', as shown in FIG. 20. The space 3077 extends from the load transfer location 2070' and the area where the inner surface 3076' contacts the elongated channel 1310, respectively (clearance distance S D20. Thus, when the anvil 2000' is moved to the closed position, a respective first load transfer location 2070' is located on one side of the horizontal plane HP and two respective load transfer locations 2072R', 2072L' are located on the opposite side of the horizontal plane HP. When the anvil 2000' is in the closed position, the respective first load transfer location 2070' is separated from each of the respective load transfer locations 2072R', 2072L' by a space 3077. See FIG. 20. As can also be seen in FIG. 20, the load transfer locations 2072R', 2072L' are located on opposite sides of the vertical plane VP.

[0071] 21 and 22 show the interrelationship between the end effector closure tube 3050' and the anvil 2000' when the end effector closure tube 3050' moves the anvil 2000' in an over-closed direction. As seen in FIG. 22, when in the over-closed position, the end effector closure tube 3050' contacts the anvil 2000' and the elongated channel 1310 to form individual load transfer locations 2070' separated from individual load transfer locations 2074R', 2074L' by spaces 3079R, 3079L. Individual load transfer locations 2074R' are separated from individual load transfer locations 2076R' by spaces 3081R, and individual load transfer locations 2074L' are separated from individual load transfer locations 2076L' by spaces 3081L. Thus, in this configuration, at least one individual load transfer location (2070') spans either side of a vertical plane VP that bisects the end effector, and at least two individual load transfer locations span either side of a horizontal plane HP that bisects the end effector. In addition, at least one individual load transfer location is located on each side of the horizontal plane HP, and at least one individual load transfer location is located on each side of the vertical plane VP. Such an arrangement of the load transfer locations in the above configuration may help prevent vertical stretching of the end effector closure tube 3050'.

[0072] Figures 24 to 30 show an adapter 2000” that is substantially identical to the above-described adapter 2000, except for the differences described below. As seen in Figure 24, the anvil attachment portion 2010” is formed with an arcuate anvil cam surface 2020” and right and left notch portions or recesses 2022”. Figures 24 and 25 show the anvil 2000” in its fully open position. As seen in Figure 24, when the “second jaw” or anvil 2000” is in its fully open position, the end effector closing tube 3050” is in its most proximal position. In that position, the end effector closing tube 3050” does not apply any closing force to the cam closing surface 2020”. Figure 30 shows one form of an end effector closing tube 3050” that may be identical to the above-described end effector closing tube 3050, except for the differences described below. The end effector closing tube 3050” includes an outer surface 3074” and an inner wall surface 3076”. In at least one form, the closing tube 3050” has a first wall thickness WT1, a second wall thickness WT 2、 a third wall thickness WT3, and a fourth wall thickness WT4, arranged as shown in Figure 30. In at least one configuration, for example, WT1 < WT2 < WT3 ≤ WT4. In some cases, WT3 > WT4. The portion of the end effector closing tube 3050” having a wall thickness corresponding to WT4 forms a load transfer position 2070”. In the illustrated configuration, for example, the load transfer position 2070” extends across a vertical plane VP that bisects the end effector closing tube 3050”. The portion of the end effector closing tube 3050” having a wall thickness WT3 forms load transfer positions 2072R” and 2072L”. In at least one configuration as shown in Figure 30, the load transfer positions 2072R” and 2072L” extend on both sides of a horizontal plane HP that bisects the end effector closing tube 3050”.

[0073] 26 and 27, as the end effector closure tube 3050" is moved distally, the load transfer locations 2070" contact the cam surface 2034 on the proximal portion 2032 of the anvil cap 2030. The load transfer locations 2072R", 2072L" also contact corresponding portions of the anvil mounting portion 2010". Additionally, portions of the end effector closure tube 3050" form load transfer locations 2074R", 2074L" which contact corresponding portions of the elongate channel 1310 to move the anvil 2000" to the closed position shown in FIGS. 26 and 27. When in the closed position shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the above configuration is shown in FIG. 27. 27. The cam surfaces 3072" and 3074" of the anvil mounting portion 2010" serve to define spaces 3077", 3079" between corresponding portions of the inner surface 3076" of the end effector closure tube 3050" and the cam surface 2020" of the anvil mounting portion 2010". Space 3077" is located between the load transfer location 2070" and the load transfer locations 2072R", 2072L". Space 3079" is located between the load transfer locations 2072R", 2072L" and the load transfer locations 2074R", 2074L", as shown in FIG. 27.

[0074] 28 and 29 show the interrelationship between the end effector closure tube 3050′ and the anvil 2000′ when the end effector closure tube 3050″ moves the anvil 2000″ in an over-closure direction. As seen in FIG. 29 , in addition to the load transfer locations 2070″, 2072R″, 2072L″, 2074R″, 2074L″, individual load transfer locations 2076R″, 2076L″ are formed by edges of the recesses 2022″ formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010″. Such individual load transfer locations 2076R″, 2076L″ are separated from corresponding individual load transfer locations 2072R″, 2072L″ by corresponding spaces 3081″. Such arrangement of the individual load transfer locations in the above manner may help prevent vertical stretching of the end effector closure tube 3050″.

[0075] When using an end effector 1300 of the type and configuration described herein, a clinician manipulates the first and second jaws (the anvil 2000 and the elongated channel 1310 having a surgical staple cartridge operably mounted therein) to capture tissue to be severed and stapled ("target tissue") between the jaws. As seen in FIGS. 5-7, for example, the surgical staple cartridge 4000 comprises a cartridge body 4010 configured to be removably supported within the elongated channel 1310. The cartridge body 4010 includes an elongated cartridge slot 4016 that extends through the cartridge body 4010 from a proximal end 4012 to a distal end 4014 and allows for the passage of a knife member or firing member 1920 therethrough. The cartridge body 4010 further defines a cartridge deck surface 4020 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. A plurality of staple cavities 4022 are provided within the cartridge body 4010 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. Each cavity 4022 opens through the deck surface 4020 and removably supports a surgical staple(s) therein. In at least one cartridge configuration, three rows of staple cavities 4022 are provided on each side of the elongated slot 4016. The rows are formed such that the staples in the center row are staggered relative to the staples in the two adjacent outer rows. The staples are supported on staple drivers that are movably supported within each staple cavity. In at least some configurations, the staple drivers are arranged to be contacted or "fired" upwardly when contacted, for example, by a cam member or portion associated with the knife member 1920. In some configurations, a wedge-shaped sled or cam sled is movably supported within the cartridge body and adapted to be displaced axially through the cartridge body as the knife member 1920 is deployed axially through the cartridge from the proximal end portion 4012 to the distal end portion 4014 of the cartridge body 4010.The wedge sled includes a cam or wedge member associated with each row of staple cavities to sequentially deploy the staple drivers supported in the staple cavities. When the cam contacts the staple drivers, the drivers are driven upwardly within the staple cavities, ejecting one or more staples supported thereon from the staple cavities, through the clamped tissue, and into forming contact with the staple forming undersurface of the anvil. The wedge sled or cam member is positioned distal to the knife or tissue cutting edge of the knife or firing member 1920 such that the tissue is stapled before it is severed by the tissue cutting edge.

[0076] When a clinician first places target tissue between the anvil and staple cartridge, it is important that the knife be positioned so that it does not cut into the target tissue until the target tissue is first stapled. In conventional anvil placements, a tissue stop is provided on the proximal end of the anvil body to prevent the target tissue from moving proximally beyond the proximal-most staple pockets in the staple cartridge. Such a tissue stop forms an abrupt proximal end that faces or opposes the distal end of the end effector closure tube. When the closure tube moves distally to close the anvil, tissue extending outwardly from between the anvil and cartridge sometimes becomes undesirably pinched or pinched between the proximal end of the tissue stop and the distal end of the end effector closure tube. The embodiments disclosed below are configured to minimize the possibility of tissue becoming pinched between the tissue stop and the end effector closure tube when the anvil is moved to the closed and over-closed positions in various ways described herein.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 7, for example, the staple cartridge 4000 includes a staple (not shown) removably supported or stored in each of the proximal-most staple cavities 4022P positioned within a row of staple cavities 4022 positioned within the cartridge body 4010 on each side of the elongated slot 4016.

[0078] To prevent target tissue from being clamped proximally of the staples in the proximal-most staple cavities 4022P in various circumstances, the anvil 2000 includes two tissue stop members 2040 that project downwardly beyond the staple forming undersurface on each side of the anvil body. When the anvil is in the closed or over-closed position, each of the tissue stop members 2040 projects downwardly on each side of the cartridge body 4010. FIG. 7 shows the anvil assembly 2000 in the open position. As seen in that figure, each of the tissue stops 2040 extends below the cartridge deck surface to prevent the target tissue from extending proximally beyond the staples in the proximal-most staple cavities 4022P. As seen in FIG. 7, FIG. 31, and FIG. 32, in at least one configuration, the tissue stop 2040 is integrally formed with the anvil body portion 2002. The proximal ends of the anvil body portion 2002 and tissue stop 2040 extend slightly above a corresponding cam surface 2020 formed on the anvil attachment portion 2010. In the illustrated example, the proximal end of the tissue stop 2040 is segmented into an upper proximal end portion 2042, a lower proximal end portion 2043, and a bottom proximal end portion 2044. See FIGS. 31 and 32. As also seen in FIGS. 31 and 32, a sloped or chamfered surface 2045 is formed between the upper proximal end portion 2042 on the anvil attachment portion and the cam surface 2020. A sloped or chamfered surface 2046 is formed between the lower proximal end portion 2043 and the cam surface 2020, and a sloped or chamfered surface 2047 is formed between the bottom proximal end portion 2044 and the cam surface 2020. In the configuration shown in the above figures where wavy shapes or relieved areas 2080, 2082, 2084 are formed in the anvil mounting portion 2010, the chamfered surface 2045 corresponds to the relieved area 2080. See FIG. 33. The lower proximal end portion 2043 and associated chamfer 2046 corresponds to the relieved area 2082 and bottom proximal end portion 2044, and the associated chamfer 2047 corresponds to the relieved area 2084.

[0079] As discussed above, the anvil 2000 is moved from a fully open position to a closed position and to an over-closed position by the axially movable end effector closure tube 3050. FIGS. 31 and 33 show the position of the end effector closure tube 3050 relative to the tissue stop 2040 when the anvil 2000 is in the closed position. As seen in FIG. 33, the upper proximal end portion 2042 and associated chamfer 2045 are generally parallel to the corresponding portion of the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. The lower proximal end portion 2043 and bottom proximal end portion 2044 of the tissue stop 2040 and the corresponding chamfers 2046 and 2047 are curved away from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 to reduce the possibility of tissue being unintentionally pinched between the tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. This configuration has the practical effect of increasing the distance between the portion of the tissue stop and the end effector closure tube where adjacent tissue is most likely to be encountered.

[0080] FIG 33 is an enlarged view of a portion of the end effector shown in FIG 31 with the anvil 2000 in a closed position. When in that position, the top proximal end portion 2042 of each tissue stop 2040 is positioned a first tissue distance TD1 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. The bottom proximal end portion 2044 of each tissue stop 2040 is positioned a second tissue distance TD2 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. As can be seen in this view, TD2>TD1. FIGS 32 and 34 show the anvil 2000 in an over-closed position. Although the first tissue distance TD1' between the top proximal end portion 2042 of each tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 is slightly less than the second tissue distance TD2' between the bottom proximal end portion 2044 of each tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050, this still reduces the likelihood of tissue getting pinched therebetween. In at least one example, TD2 and / or TD2' may be on the order of 10 thousandths of an inch to about 25 thousandths of an inch. However, other gap distances may be implemented. The inclusion of the chamfered surfaces 2045, 2046, and 2047 may also help reduce the likelihood of tissue getting pinched between the tissue stop 2040 and the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 as the anvil 200 is moved further into the closed position and into the over-closed position. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the tissue stop configurations described above will also function with other forms of end effector closure tube and closure member configurations.

[0081] 35-38 show another embodiment of anvil 5000 that is identical to the anvil 2000 described above, except for the differences regarding the tissue stop 5040. The tissue stop 5040 may be identical to the tissue stop 2040, except that the proximal end portion 5042, 5043, 5044 and associated chamfered surfaces 5045, 5046, 5047 of each tissue stop are generally parallel to the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030. The end effector closure tube 5050 may be identical to the end effector closure tube 3050 described above, except for the differences described below. FIGS. 35 and 36 show the anvil 5000 in the closed position. In this configuration, the areas that would otherwise be likely to pinch tissue are the edges of the bottom proximal end portion 5044 and the facing portion of the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5050. To reduce and minimize such a possibility, a relief area 5060 is formed in the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030 that faces or is otherwise opposite the bottom proximal end 5044 of each of the tissue stops 5040. In the illustrated example, each relief area 5060 comprises an arcuate notch 5062 formed in a portion of the distal end 5031 of the end effector closure tube 5030 that corresponds to the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each of the tissue stops 5040. In the illustrated configuration, for example, the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each of the tissue stops 5040 terminates in a lower corner 5070 such that the top or bottom portion 5064 is directly opposite the bottom corner 5070 when the end effector closure tube 5050 is in a position corresponding to the closed position of the anvil 5000. However, other notch shapes may be employed.

[0082] FIG 36 is an enlarged view of a portion of the end effector shown in FIG 35 with the anvil 5000 in a closed position. When in that position, the top proximal end portion 5042, the bottom proximal end portion 5043, and the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 are positioned a first tissue distance TD1 from the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 5050. The bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 is positioned a second tissue distance TD2 from the apex or bottom 5064 of the notch 5062 in the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050. As can be seen in this view, TD2>TD1. FIGS 37 and 38 show the anvil 5000 in an over-closed position. Although the first tissue distance TD1' between the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 5040 and the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050 is still less than the second tissue distance TD2' between the bottom proximal end portion 5044 of each tissue stop 2040 and the apex 5064 of the corresponding notch 5062 in the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050, this still reduces the likelihood of tissue getting pinched therebetween. Also, the inclusion of the chamfered surfaces 5045, 5046 and 5047 may help reduce the likelihood of tissue getting pinched between the tissue stop 5040 and the distal end 5051 of the end effector closure tube 5050 as the anvil 5000 is moved to the closed position and further to the over-closed position. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the tissue stop configurations described above also work with other forms of end effector closure tube and closure member configurations.

[0083] FIG. 39 illustrates a conventional surgical staple cartridge 4000 including a cartridge body 4010 configured to be removably supported within an elongated channel 1310. The cartridge body 4010 includes an elongated cartridge slot 4016 that extends through the cartridge body 4010 from a proximal end 4012 to a distal end 4014 and allows a knife member or firing member 1920 (see FIG. 5 ) to pass therethrough. The cartridge body 4010 further defines a cartridge deck surface 4020 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. See FIG. 39 . A plurality of staple cavities 4022 are provided within the cartridge body 4010 on each side of the elongated slot 4016. Each cavity 4022 opens through the deck surface 4020 and removably supports a surgical staple(s) therein. In at least one cartridge configuration, three rows of staple cavities 4022 are provided on each side of the elongated slot 4016. In the illustrated example, the rows are formed such that the staples in the center row are staggered relative to the staples in the two adjacent outer rows. The staples are supported on staple drivers movably supported in each staple cavity. In at least some configurations, the staple drivers are positioned to be contacted or "fired" upwardly when contacted, for example, by a cam member or cam portion associated with the knife member 1920. In some configurations, a "wedge" or cam sled is movably supported within the cartridge body 4010 and adapted to be displaced axially through the cartridge body 4010 as the knife member 1920 is deployed axially through the cartridge from the proximal end portion 4012 to the distal end portion 4014 of the cartridge body 4010. The wedge sled includes a cam member or "wedge member" associated with each row of staple cavities to sequentially deploy staple drivers supported within the staple cavities.When a corresponding wedge member or cam contacts the staple driver, the driver is driven upwardly within the staple, thereby driving one or more staples supported thereon out of the staple cavities, through the clamped tissue, and into forming contact with the staple forming undersurface of the facing anvil of the end effector. The wedge shaped sled or cam member is positioned distal to the knife or tissue cutting edge of the knife or firing member 1920 such that the tissue is stapled before being cut by the tissue cutting edge on the knife or firing member.

[0084] Variations in the arrangement and / or geometry of the staples within a staple row can affect the flexibility and sealing properties of the staple row. For example, a staple row comprised of linearly aligned staples can provide a limited amount of flexibility or extensibility because the staple row can bend or stretch between the linear staples. As a result, only limited portions of the staple row (e.g., between the staples) are flexible. Staple rows comprised of angularly oriented staples can also bend or stretch between the staples. However, the angularly oriented staples can also rotate, providing additional extensibility within the staple row. Staple rows comprised of angularly oriented staples can be stretchable, for example, greater than 60%. In certain cases, staple rows comprised of angularly oriented staples can be stretched, for example, by at least 25% or at least 50%. Staple arrangement includes, for example, the relative arrangement of the staples and the spacing between the staples. Staple geometry includes, for example, the size and shape of the staple. The flexibility and sealing properties of a staple row may vary with longitudinal and / or lateral position based on the arrangement and / or geometry of the staples. In certain cases, it may be desirable to vary the flexibility and / or sealing properties of a staple row at one or more positions along the staple row. For example, it may be desirable to maximize the flexibility of a staple row or a portion thereof. Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to minimize the flexibility of a staple row or a portion thereof. It may also be desirable to maximize the sealing properties of a staple row or a portion thereof. Additionally or alternatively, it may be desirable to minimize the sealing properties of a staple row or a portion thereof.

[0085] The arrangement of staple cavities within a staple cartridge corresponds to the arrangement of staples within a staple row created by the staple cartridge. For example, the spacing and relative orientation of staple cavities within a staple cartridge corresponds to the spacing and relative orientation of staples within a staple row created by the staple cartridge. In various cases, a staple cartridge may include an arrangement of staple cavities selected and / or designed to optimize flexibility and / or sealing characteristics of the resulting staple row. A surgeon may select a staple cartridge having a particular arrangement of staple cavities based, for example, on the characteristics of the surgical procedure being performed and / or the tissue being treated during that procedure.

[0086] In certain cases, it may be desirable to create a staple row having different staple patterns. A staple row may have a first pattern of staples for a first portion thereof and a second pattern of staples for a second portion thereof. The first and second patterns may be longitudinally offset. For example, the first pattern may be located at a proximal or distal end of the staple row. In other cases, the first and second patterns may be laterally offset, and in still other cases, the first and second patterns may be both laterally offset and longitudinally offset. A staple row may include at least two different staple patterns.

[0087] In certain cases, a majority of the staples in a staple row may form a major pattern, and other staples in the staple row may form one or more minor patterns. The major pattern may span a significant portion of the staple row and may include longitudinally repeating sub-patterns. In certain cases, minor patterns (or irregularities) may deviate from the major pattern. The minor patterns may be irregular, for example, at one or more locations along the length of the staple row. Different patterns within a staple row may be configured to produce different properties at predefined locations. For example, the major pattern may be a very flexible or elastic pattern, allowing stretch due to stretching of the stapled tissue, and the minor patterns may be less flexible or less elastic. For example, it may be desirable for a majority of the staple row to be very flexible, with one or more limited portions being less flexible. In other cases, the minor patterns may be more flexible than the major pattern. In certain cases, the minor pattern may extend along a short portion of the staple row such that the flexibility of the minor pattern does not affect, or does not significantly affect, the flexibility of the entire staple row. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,389, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168629), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses various staple cartridge and staple driver arrangements. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 9,801,627, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE FOR CREATING FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINES," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses various cartridge and anvil configurations for creating flexible rows of surgical staples.

[0088] 39 , the majority of the staple cavities 4022 in the cartridge 4000 are arranged in a first or main pattern 4030. The first pattern 4030 is a longitudinally repeating pattern of angularly oriented staple cavities 4022. A longitudinally repeating pattern is a pattern in which a sub-pattern or arrangement is repeated longitudinally. For example, the arrangement of three staple cavities on each side of the slot 4016 (an inner staple cavity, a central staple cavity, and an outer staple cavity) may be repeated along at least a portion of the length of the staple cartridge body 4010. Various longitudinal repeating patterns of angularly oriented staple cavities are described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 498,145, filed September 26, 2014, entitled "METHOD FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0089142), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The openings 4024 of the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030 form a herringbone pattern having six rows of angularly oriented staple cavity openings 4024 in the cartridge deck surface 4020. An inner row 4026a, a middle row 4026b, and an outer row 4026c of the staple cavities 4022 are positioned on each side of the slot 4016.

[0089] Each staple cavity opening 4024 has a proximal end 4027 and a distal end 4028. The proximal and distal ends 4027, 4028 of the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030 are laterally offset. Stated differently, each staple cavity 4022 in the first pattern 4030 is oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis SCA of the staple cartridge. A cavity axis CA extends between the proximal and distal ends 4027, 4028 of each opening 4024. The cavity axis CA is oriented obliquely relative to the slot 4016. More specifically, the openings 4024 in the inner row 4026a of the staple cavities 4022 and in the outer row 4026c of the staple cavities 4022 are oriented at an angle of 45°, or approximately 45°, relative to the longitudinal axis SCA of the staple cartridge, and the openings 4024 in the middle row 4026b of the staple cavities 4022 are oriented at an angle of 90°, or approximately 90°, relative to the openings 4024 in the inner row 4026a and the outer row 4026c.

[0090] In the example of FIG. 39, certain staple cavities within the cartridge body 4010 are oriented at irregular or irregular angles relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. More specifically, the angular orientation of proximal staple cavities 4022a, 4022b, 4022c, and 4022d, and distal staple cavities 4022e, 4022f, 4022g, and 4022h do not correspond to the herringbone arrangement of the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. Rather, proximal staple cavities 4022a-4022d and distal staple cavities 4022e-4022h are angularly offset from the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. Proximal staple cavities 4022a, 4022b, 4022c, and 4022d are oriented obliquely relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030, and distal staple cavities 4022e, 4022f, 4022g, and 4022h are also oriented obliquely relative to the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030. The proximal and distal staple cavities 4022a-4022h are oriented parallel to the slot 4016 and the longitudinal axis SCA of the staple cartridge.

[0091] The proximal staple cavities 4022a-4022d form a proximal pattern 4040 that is separate from the first pattern 4030, and the distal staple cavities 4022e-4022h form a distal pattern 4042 that is also separate from the first pattern 4030. In the illustrated configuration, the proximal pattern 4040 includes a first pair of parallel, longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022a, 4022b on a first side of the slot 4016 and a second pair of parallel, longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022c, 4022d on a second side of the longitudinal slot 4016. The distal pattern 4042 includes a first pair of parallel, longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022e, 4022f on a first side of the slot 4016 and a second pair of parallel, longitudinally aligned staple cavities 4022g, 4022h on a second side of the longitudinal slot 4016. In other cases, the distal pattern 4042 can be different from the proximal pattern 4040.

[0092] The proximal pattern 4040 and the distal pattern 4042 are symmetrical about the longitudinal axis SCA of the staple cartridge. In other cases, the proximal pattern 4040 and / or the distal pattern 4042 may be asymmetrical about the longitudinal axis SCA of the staple cartridge. For example, staple cavities 4022e and 4022f may be longitudinally offset from staple cavities 4022g and 4022h, and / or staple cavities 4022a and 4022b may be longitudinally offset from staple cavities 4022c and 4022d. Additionally or alternatively, in certain cases, the staple cartridge body 4010 may include either the proximal pattern 4040 or the distal pattern 4042. In other cases, the staple cavities 4022 defined within the staple cartridge body 4010 may include additional and / or different patterns of staple cavities 4022.

[0093] As further seen in FIG. 39 , an atraumatic extender 4050 extends or protrudes from the deck surface 4020 around a portion of the staple cavities 4022 of the first pattern 4030. The atraumatic extender 4050 surrounds the proximal and distal ends 4027 and 4028, respectively, of the openings 4024 of the staple cavities 4022 of the first pattern 4030. The atraumatic extender 4050 may be configured to grip tissue clamped by the end effector. Additionally or alternatively, in certain cases, the tips of the staple legs may protrude from the cartridge body 4010. In such cases, the atraumatic extender 4050 may be configured to extend flush with and / or beyond the tips of the staple legs to prevent the tips of the staple legs from penetrating tissue prematurely. As a result, larger staples, e.g., staples having longer legs, may be positioned within the staple cavities 4022 that have atraumatic extenders 4050 disposed therearound. For example, referring again to FIG. 39, larger staples may be positioned within the staple cavities 4022 in the first pattern 4030 without risk of prematurely perforating tissue with the longer staple legs than the staple cavities of the proximal pattern 4040 and the distal pattern 4042. In certain cases, the atraumatic extenders 4050 may be positioned about the staple cavities 4022 of the proximal pattern 4040 and / or the distal pattern 4042, and the larger staples may be positioned in one or more of these more staple cavities 4022a-h as well.

[0094] The staple cartridge body 4010 may be configured to create a row of staples having different properties along its length. A row of staples 4060 created by the staple cartridge body 4010 and embedded in tissue T is shown in FIG. 40. The row of staples 4060 is made up of staples 4062, and an exemplary staple 4062 for use with the various staple cartridges described herein is shown in FIG. 41. The staples 4062 may be made up of, for example, a bent wire. The wire may be 0.0079 inches, or about 0.0079 inches, in diameter. In other cases, the wire may be 0.0089 inches, or about 0.0089 inches, in diameter. In yet other cases, the wire may be 0.0094, or about 0.0094 inches, in diameter. In certain cases, the wire may be less than 0.0079 inches, or greater than 0.0094 inches, in diameter. The reader will understand that the diameter of the wire may be indicative of the diameter of the staple. The staple 4062 is a substantially U-shaped staple having a base 4064, a first leg 4066 extending from a first end of the base 4064, and a second leg 4068 extending from a second end of the base 4064. The first leg 4066 is substantially parallel to the second leg 4068 and substantially perpendicular to the base 4064. When implanted in tissue T, the angular orientation of the base 4064 corresponds to the angular orientation of the staple cavity openings 4024 from which the staples 4062 are fired.

[0095] Another exemplary staple 4070 that may be used with the various staple cartridges described herein is shown in FIG. The staple 4070 is a substantially V-shaped staple having a base 4072, a first leg 4074 extending from a first end of the base 4072, and a second leg 4076 extending from a second end of the base 4072. The first leg 4074 is oriented obliquely relative to the second leg 4076 and the base 4072. When implanted into tissue T, the orientation of the base 4072 corresponds to the direction of the staple cavity opening 4024 from which the staple 4070 is fired. The reader will understand that staples having different geometries may be fired from the staple cartridges described herein.

[0096] 40, staple row 4060 includes a first portion 4061, a proximal portion 4063, and a distal portion 4065. First portion 4061 is formed from a first pattern (i.e., primary pattern) 4030 and extends along a substantial portion of staple row 4030. Due to the angular orientation of staples 4062 within first portion 4030, first portion 4061 is substantially flexible or resilient. For example, the angled oriented staples 4062 are capable of rotating within the stapled tissue T while minimizing trauma to the tissue T, and first portion 4061 is configured to stretch or extend longitudinally and / or laterally as the stapled tissue elongates.

[0097] The proximal portion 4063 is produced from the proximal pattern 4040 and forms the proximal end of the staple row 4060. The distal portion 4065 is produced from the distal pattern 4042 and forms the distal end of the staple row 4060. Due to the parallel orientation of the staples 4062 in the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 of the staple row 4060, the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 of the staple row 4060 may be less flexible than the first portion 4061. However, the reduced flexibility of the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 may not affect, or may not substantially affect, the overall flexibility of the staple row 4060. Further, as described herein, the proximal portion 4063 and the distal portion 4065 may not extend adjacent to the cut line, and in certain cases, the proximal portion 4063 may not be present in the staple row 4060 or may be missing from the staple row 4060.

[0098] As described herein, staples are removably positioned within the staple cartridge and fired from the staple cartridge during use. In various cases, the staples may be driven out of staple cavities within the staple cartridge and form contact with the anvil. For example, a firing element may translate through the staple cartridge during the firing stroke and drive the staples from the staple cartridge toward the anvil. In certain cases, the staples may be supported by a staple driver and the firing element may lift the staple driver and eject or remove the staples from the staple cartridge.

[0099] The anvil may have a staple forming undersurface that defines staple forming pockets therein. In certain cases, the staple forming pockets may be die-stamped into the anvil. For example, the staple forming pockets may be coined into a flat surface of the anvil. The reader will understand that certain features of the staple forming pockets may be an intentional result of the coining process. For example, a particular degree of rounding of the corners and / or edges of the staple forming part may be an intended result of the coining process. Such features may also be designed to better form the staple into its formed shape, including staples that are distorted and / or otherwise misaligned during deployment.

[0100] Each staple in the staple cartridge can be aligned with a staple forming pocket of the anvil. In other words, the arrangement of staple cavities and staples in the staple cartridge for the end effector can correspond to or match the arrangement of staple forming pockets in the anvil of the end effector. More specifically, the angular orientation of each staple cavity can match the angular orientation of its respective corresponding staple forming pocket. For example, if the staple cavities are arranged in a herringbone pattern, the staple forming pockets can also be arranged in a herringbone pattern.

[0101] When the staples are driven from the staple cartridge and into forming contact with the anvil, they may be formed into a fired configuration. In various cases, the fired configuration may be a B-shape, i.e., the tips of the staple legs are bent toward the staple base or crown to form a capital B with symmetrical upper and lower loops. In other cases, the fired configuration may be a modified B-shape (e.g., a distorted B-shape configuration in which at least a portion of the staple legs are torqued out of plane with the staple base, or an asymmetric B-shape configuration in which the upper and lower loops of the capital B are asymmetrical). Tissue may be captured or clamped within the formed staples.

[0102] The arrangement of staples and / or staple cavities within the staple cartridge may be configured to optimize the corresponding arrangement of staple forming pockets within the forming surface of a complementary anvil. For example, the angular orientation and spacing of the staples within the staple cartridge may be designed to optimize the forming surface of the anvil. In certain cases, the footprint of the staple forming pockets within the anvil may be limited by the geometry of the anvil. When the staple forming pockets are oriented obliquely relative to the longitudinal axis, the width of the anvil may limit the size of the obliquely oriented staple forming pockets and the spacing between the staple forming pockets. For example, the width of a middle row of staple forming pockets may define a minimum distance between a first row on one side of the middle row (e.g., an outer row) and a second row on the other side of the middle row (e.g., an inner row). Additionally, the row of staple forming pockets is limited between an inner edge of the anvil (e.g., a knife slot) and an outer edge of the anvil.

[0103] In various cases, the pockets may be nested adjacent to one another along the staple forming undersurface of the anvil. For example, a middle pocket may be nested between the inner and outer pockets. The angular orientation of the pockets may vary from row to row to facilitate nesting of the pockets. For example, the staple forming pockets in the inner row may be oriented at a first angle, the staple forming pockets in the middle row may be oriented at a second angle, and the staple forming pockets in the outer row may be oriented at a third angle. The first angle, second angle, and third angle may be different, which may facilitate dense placement of the staple forming pockets.

[0104] Referring again to the conventional staple cartridge shown in FIG. 39 and other conventional staple cartridges disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 9,801,627, entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE FOR CREATING FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINES," and / or U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 498,145, filed September 26, 2014 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0089142), entitled "METHOD FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE," various angles of staples and staple cavities in each row can be selected to optimize the nested configuration of staple forming pockets in the complementary anvil. For each such staple cartridge, the complementary anvil may be configured to have a corresponding arrangement of staple forming pockets. Additionally, the staple forming pockets in the complementary anvil may be larger than the staple cavities to ensure that the staple legs land or drop into the staple forming pockets. For example, the staple legs may be biased outward, such as in the case of V-shaped staples (see FIG. 42), and the larger footprint of the staple forming pockets may capture the outwardly biased staple legs during firing. In various cases, the staple forming pockets may be 0.005 inches to 0.015 inches longer than the corresponding staple cavities and / or staples. Additionally or alternatively, the staple receiving cup of each staple forming pocket may be 0.005 inches to 0.015 inches wider than the corresponding staple cavity. In other cases, the difference in length and / or width may be less than 0.005 inches or more than 0.015 inches.

[0105] If the staple sizes vary within the staple cartridge, the staple forming pockets may correspondingly vary in size within the complementary anvil. Varying the sizes of the staple forming pockets may further facilitate achieving that nested configuration. For example, if the staple forming pockets in the middle row are shorter than the staple forming pockets in the inner or outer rows, the width of the staple forming pockets in the middle row can be reduced, minimizing the required spacing between the inner and outer rows.

[0106] The spacing of the staple forming pockets may also be configured to optimize their nesting. For example, the pockets disposed in the inner rows may be longitudinally staggered with respect to the pockets disposed in the outer rows. Additionally, the pockets in the inner rows may longitudinally overlap the pockets in the outer rows. The pockets in the middle row may be longitudinally staggered with respect to the pockets in the inner rows and the pockets in the outer rows. For example, the pockets in the middle row may be longitudinally offset equally with respect to the pockets in the outer rows and the pockets in the inner rows.

[0107] 43-46 show the anvil 6000 or portions thereof. In the illustrated example, the anvil 6000 includes an elongated body portion 6010 and an anvil mounting portion 6020. See FIG. 43. The anvil mounting portion 6020 in this example includes a pair of anvil trunnions or pivot members 6022 of the anvil 6000 that facilitate pivotally supporting the anvil 6000 on an elongated channel that supports the staple cartridge in various manners discussed herein. A pair of tissue stops 6024 extend downwardly from the anvil mounting portion 6020 and function to properly position or orient the target tissue clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge relative to the proximal-most staple stored in the cartridge. Such an arrangement functions to ensure that the proximal staples are fired first into the target tissue before the tissue is severed by the tissue-cutting edges on the firing members. An elongated slot 6026 extends through the anvil mounting portion 6020 and the elongated body portion 6010 along the longitudinal axis LA to facilitate passage of a knife or firing member.

[0108] The anvil body 6010 includes a staple forming lower surface, generally referred to as 6030, with an elongated slot 6026 extending therethrough. The staple forming lower surface 6030 forms a ledge 6032, 6034 on each side of the slot 6026 in the anvil body 6010, which functions to slidingly engage a protrusion formed on or attached to a knife of a firing member passing through the slot 6026 during the staple firing and tissue cutting process. The staple forming lower surface 6030 includes a planar surface portion 6040, which may be referred to herein as a "non-forming surface portion," on each side of the slot 6026, each of which has a plurality of staple forming pockets 6060 formed therein. See FIG. 44. The anvil 6000 is generally complementary to a particular staple supported within the elongated channel. For example, the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 6060 in the anvil 6000 may correspond to the arrangement of staples and staple cavities in a staple cartridge supported in an elongate channel. The forming rate of the lower staple forming surface 6030 may be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 6040 of the anvil 6000 may be minimized relative to the staple forming pockets 6060. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 6060 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 6030 designed to capture and form staples.

[0109] In the illustrated configuration, the staple forming pockets 6060 shown in Figures 43-46 are arranged in three rows 6050a, 6050b, 6050c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 6026. The first row 6050a is an outer row, the second row 6050b is a middle row, and the third row 6050c is an inner row. The outer pockets 6060a are positioned in the outer row 6050a, the middle pockets 6060b are positioned in the middle row 6050b, and the inner pockets 6060c are positioned in the inner row 6050c closest to the slot 6026. The pockets 6060a-c are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 6030 of the anvil 6000. In at least one case, the pockets 6060a-6060c on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 6026 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 6060a-6060c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 6026. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 6060 in the staple forming lower surface 6030 may be asymmetric about the longitudinal slot 6026, and in certain cases, the anvil 6000 may not include a longitudinal slot 6026. In various cases, the pockets 6060 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 6026.

[0110] Each pocket 6060a-6060c includes a perimeter 6062a-6062c located along a corresponding pocket axis and defining a pocket boundary 6064a-6064c. Each pocket 6060a-6060c also includes a proximal cup or proximal end 6066a-6066c, a distal cup or distal end 6068a-6068c, and a neck portion 6070a-6070c connecting the proximal cup 6066a-6066c and the distal cup 6068a-6068c, respectively. A proximal forming groove or staple guide groove 6072a-6072c is provided in each proximal cup 6066a-6066c, and a distal forming groove or staple guide groove 6074a-6074c is provided in each distal cup 6069a-6069c. For example, the proximal cups 6066a-6066c are aligned with the proximal staple legs and the distal cups 6068a-6068c are aligned with the distal staple legs when the staples are driven into forming contact with the lower staple forming surface 6030. The tips of the staple legs are positioned and configured to land in the corresponding cups 6066a-6066c, 6068a-6068c, respectively. In other words, the proximal cups 6066a-6066c are configured to receive the proximal staple legs of the corresponding staples and the distal cups 6068a-6068c are configured to receive the distal staple legs of the corresponding staples. The cups 6066a-6066c and 6068a-6068c and the forming grooves 6072a-6072c and 6074a-6074c are also configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the pocket axes and central portions of the pockets 6060a-6060c (e.g., neck portions 6070a-6070c) and to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0111] The geometry, spacing, and / or orientation of the pockets 6060a-c may vary from row to row. A pocket axis extends from the proximal cup 6066a-c of each pocket 6060a-c through the neck portion 6070a-c to the distal cup 6068a-c. The pockets 6060a-c in each row are parallel to one another. For example, the outer or first pocket 6060a is oriented at an angle A relative to the longitudinal axis LA. See FIG. 45. Stated differently, the first pocket axis (e.g., FPA) of the outer pocket 6060a is oriented at an angle A relative to the longitudinal axis LA. The middle pocket 6060b is oriented at an angle B relative to the longitudinal axis LA. Stated differently, the second pocket axis SPA of the middle pocket 6060b is oriented at an angle B relative to the longitudinal axis LA. The inner or third pocket 6060c is oriented at an angle C relative to the longitudinal axis LA. Stated differently, the third pocket axis TPA of the inner pocket 6060c is oriented at an angle C relative to the longitudinal axis LA. See FIG. 45.

[0112] The angles A, B, and C may be different. In the illustrated example, the outer pocket 6060a is approximately parallel to the inner pocket 6060c. The angle A is approximately equal to the angle C. That is, the first pocket axis FPA is approximately parallel to the third pocket axis TPA. The second pocket axis SPA intersects the first pocket axis FPA and the third pocket axis TPA, for example, such that the staple forming pockets 6060a-6060c in the anvil 6000 form a herringbone pattern. The pockets 6060a-6060c may be of equal length or may have different lengths. The lengths of the pockets 6060a-6060c may be selected, for example, to optimize nesting of the pockets 6060a-6060c. For example, the outer pocket 6060a may be longitudinally staggered relative to the inner pocket 6060c. In at least one configuration, for example, the proximal cups 6066b of at least some of the formed pockets 6060b in the second or middle row 6050b of formed pockets are adjacent to the distal cups 6068c of adjacent outer formed pockets 6060c in the third or outer row 6050c of formed pockets, as shown in FIGURE 45. Similarly, the distal cups 6068b of at least some of the formed pockets 6060b in the second or middle row 6050b of formed pockets 6060b are adjacent to a portion of the neck 6070a and to the proximal cups 6066a of adjacent formed cups 6060a in the first or outer row of formed pockets 6060a. The arrangement of the pockets 6060a-c can be configured to nest the pockets 6060a-c such that the pockets 6060a-c fit within a predetermined space. For example, in certain cases, the width of the anvil 6000 can be minimized or otherwise limited to fit within a surgical trocar and / or narrow surgical field, and the arrangement of staple forming pockets 6060a-6060c (and the corresponding arrangement of staples and / or staple cavities) can fit within the narrow anvil.

[0113] The anvil 6000 may further include tissue stabilization features and features that can increase the likelihood of proper formation of the staples as they are fired into the corresponding forming pockets 6060a-6060c. For example, as seen in FIGS. 44 and 45, a plurality of anvil projections 6080 project upwardly from the planar non-forming surface portion 6040 of the staple forming lower surface 6030. In at least one circumstance, an outer or first anvil projection 6080 is formed around each proximal end or proximal cup 6066a of each forming pocket 6060a of the first or outer row 6050a of forming pockets 6060a. In the illustrated configuration, such a first anvil projection 6080 may be integrally formed with the non-molding surface portion 6040 by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the non-molding surface portion 6040 by welding, adhesive, etc., such that the first anvil projection 6080 projects from the planar non-molding surface portion 6040. In at least one situation, the first anvil projection 6080 extends around at least a portion of the proximal cup 6066a in the corresponding first mold pocket 6060a. The first anvil projection 6080 may also extend around at least a portion of the distal cup 6068b of the adjacent mold pocket 6060b and around at least a portion of the proximal cup 6066c of the adjacent mold pocket 6060c, as shown in FIG. Similarly, an inner or second anvil projection 6090 is formed around at least a portion of each distal end or distal cup 6068c of each molding pocket 6060c in the third or outer side 6050c of the molding pocket 6060c. In the illustrated configuration, such second anvil projection 6090 may be integrally formed with the planar non-molding surface portion 6040 by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the planar non-molding surface portion 6040 by welding, adhesive, etc., such that the second anvil projection 6090 projects from the planar non-molding surface portion 6040.In at least one circumstance, the second anvil projection 6090 extends around at least a portion of the distal cup 6068c in the corresponding third form pocket 6060c. The second anvil projection 6090 may also extend around at least a portion of the proximal cup 6066b of the adjacent form pocket 6060b and around at least a portion of the distal cup 6068a of the adjacent first form pocket 6060a, as shown in FIG.

[0114] In at least one example, the first and second anvil projections 6080, 6090 may be formed with at least one "contoured" staple guide surface. The anvil 6000 shown in FIG. 45 includes contoured or staple-guiding facets or surfaces 6082, 6084, 6092, 6094. As used in this context, the term "contoured" is intended to encompass any surface that does not extend at a right angle (90 degrees or about 90 degrees) to the planar non-forming surface 6040. The term "contoured" may also encompass rounded surfaces, as well as angled surfaces, or facets that are oriented at an acute angle (less than 90 degrees) to the planar non-forming surface 6040.

[0115] In the illustrated arrangement, for the first anvil projection 6080, the first contoured forming surface 6082 is angled inwardly from the projection's top surface 6081 and extends around a first portion of the circumference of the corresponding proximal cup 6066a. The first contoured forming surface 6082 transitions to an outer surface that extends around a first end of the distal cup 6068b of the adjacent forming pocket 6060b. The first contoured forming surface 6082 then transitions to an inner beveled surface that extends around the end of the proximal cup 6066c of the adjacent staple forming pocket 6060c, as shown, for example, in FIG. 45. With further reference to FIG. 45, the surface 6083 is also angled from the top surface 6081 of the first anvil projection 6080. The surface 6083 forms an outer surface that extends around the end of the proximal cup 6066a and then transitions to an inner beveled surface that extends around the distal cup 6068b. The surface 6083 then transitions to a top surface that extends around the proximal cup 6066c, as shown in FIG. 45. The anvil 6000 may be used in conjunction with a surgical staple cartridge having an atraumatic extender on its deck surface, such as, for example, the cartridge 4000 described above. In such instances, the anvil projection may be aligned, substantially aligned, or approximately aligned with a corresponding one or more atraumatic extenders on the cartridge. In other anvil configurations, the anvil projection may be oriented such that it is misaligned, misaligned, or nearly misaligned with the atraumatic extenders on the staple cartridge. In yet other configurations, the anvil 6000 may be used in conjunction with staples that do not have atraumatic extenders.

[0116] The staple forming lower surface 6030 further includes a plurality of second anvil projections 6090 projecting therefrom. With respect to the second anvil projections 6090, a first contoured forming surface 6092 is angled inwardly from the upper surface 6091 and extends around a portion of the outer periphery of the corresponding distal cup 6068a. The first outer surface 6092 transitions to an inwardly angled outer surface adjacent a portion of the staple forming pocket 6060c. As seen in FIG. 45, the surface 6092 extends around a portion of the distal cup 6068c and is truncated at an edge of the cartridge body. An additional portion 6096 of the second anvil projection 6060 is formed adjacent the other side of the outer periphery of the distal cup 6068c as shown. As shown, the inner surface portion 6092 is angled inwardly toward the outer periphery of the distal cup 6068c. Thus, in the example shown in FIGS. 43-46, anvil protrusions are formed or at least extend around each forming cup portion of each staple forming pocket 6060a-c on the staple forming lower surface 6030 positioned on either side of the elongated slot 6026 in the cartridge body 6010. Such protruding anvil formations 6080, 6090 may function to stabilize the tissue being stapled, and the angled surfaces may also help guide the staple legs of the corresponding staples into the cups of the appropriate staple forming pockets during stapling. Such use of anvil forming or tissue stabilizing features on the anvil to stabilize the staples and tissue being severed may be particularly advantageous for anvil arrangements having a herringbone pocket configuration designed to achieve or form a flexible staple row.

[0117] 47-49 illustrate an anvil 6000' similar to the anvil 6000 described above, except for the differences discussed herein. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 47, the anvil 6000' includes an elongated body portion 6010' and an anvil mounting portion 6020'. The anvil mounting portion 6020' in this example includes a pair of anvil trunnions or pivot members 6022' of the anvil 6000' that facilitate pivotally supporting the anvil 6000' on the elongated channel that supports the staple cartridge in various manners discussed herein. A pair of tissue stops 6024' extend downwardly from the anvil mounting portion 6020' and function to properly position or orient target tissue clamped between the anvil and staple cartridge relative to the proximal-most staple stored in the cartridge. Such an arrangement serves to ensure that the proximal staples are first fired into the target tissue before the tissue is severed by the tissue-cutting edge on the firing member. An elongated slot 6026' extends through the anvil mounting portion 6020' and the elongated body portion 6010' along the longitudinal axis LA to facilitate passage of a knife or firing member.

[0118] The anvil body 6010' includes a staple forming lower surface, generally referred to as 6030', with an elongated slot 6026' extending therethrough. The staple forming lower surface 6030' defines a ledge 6032', 6034' on each side of the slot 6026' in the anvil body 6010', which functions to slidingly engage a protrusion formed on or attached to a knife of a firing member passing through the slot 6026' during the staple firing and tissue cutting process. The staple forming lower surface 6030' includes a planar portion 6040' (FIG. 48), which may be referred to herein as a non-forming surface portion, on each side of the slot 6026', each of which has a plurality of staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' formed therein. The anvil 6000' is generally complementary to a particular staple cartridge supported within the elongated channel. For example, the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' in the anvil 6000' may correspond to the arrangement of the staples and staple cavities in a staple cartridge supported in an elongate channel. The forming rate of the lower staple forming surface 6030' may be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 6040' of the anvil 6000' may be minimized relative to the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c'. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 6030' designed to capture and form staples.

[0119] In the illustrated configuration, the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' shown in Figures 47-49 are arranged in three rows 6050a', 6050b', 6050c' on a first side of the longitudinal slot 6026'. See Figure 48. The first row 6050c is an inner row, the second row 6050b' is a middle row, and the third row 6050a is an outer row. The inner pocket 6060c' is positioned in the inner row 6050c', the middle pocket 6060b' is positioned in the middle row 6050b', and the outer pocket 6060c' is positioned in the outer row 6050c'. The pockets 6060a'-6060c' are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 6030' of the anvil 6000'. In at least one case, the pockets 6060a'-6060c' on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 6026' may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' on a first side of the longitudinal slot 6026. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' in the staple forming lower surface 6030' may be asymmetric about the longitudinal slot 6026', and in certain cases, the anvil 6000' may not include a longitudinal slot 6026'. In various cases, the pockets 6060' may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 6026'.

[0120] Each pocket 6060a'-6060c' has a perimeter 6062a'-6062c' that defines the boundary of the pocket 6060a'-6060c'. Each pocket 6060a'-6060c' also includes a proximal cup or end 6066a'-6066c', a distal cup or end 6068a'-6068c', and a neck portion 6070a'-6070c' connecting the proximal cup 6066a'-6066c' and the distal cup 6068a'-6068c'. A proximal forming groove 7072a'-7072c' is provided in each proximal cup 6066a'-6066c' and a distal forming groove 6074a'-6074c' is provided in each distal cup 6068a'-6068c'. The proximal cups 6066a'-6066c' align with the proximal staple legs and the distal cups 6068a'-6068c' align with the distal staple legs when, for example, a staple is driven into forming contact with the lower staple forming surface 6030'. The tips of the staple legs are positioned and configured to land within the respective cups 6066a'-6066c', 6068a'-6068c'. Stated differently, the proximal cups 6066a'-6066c' are configured to receive the proximal staple legs and the distal cups 6068a'-6068c' are configured to receive the distal staple legs. The cups 6066a'-6066c' and 6068a'-6068c' and forming channels 6072a'-6072c' and 6074a'-6074c' are also configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the pocket axes and central portions (e.g., neck portions 6070a'-6070c') of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0121] The geometry, spacing, and / or orientation of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' may vary from row to row. A pocket axis extends from the proximal cup 6066a'-6066c' of each pocket 6060a'-6060c', through the neck portion 6070a'-6070c', to the distal cup 6068a'-6068c'. The pockets 6060a'-6060c' in each row are parallel. For example, the outer pocket 6060a' is oriented at an angle A' with respect to the longitudinal axis LA. Each outer or first pocket 6060a' lies along a first pocket axis FPA' axis that is oriented at an angle A with respect to the longitudinal axis LA. The middle pocket 6060b' is oriented at an angle B with respect to the longitudinal axis LA. Each second pocket 6060b' lies along a second pocket axis SPA' oriented at an angle B' relative to the longitudinal axis LA. The inner or third pocket 6060c' is oriented at an angle C' relative to the longitudinal axis LA. Each inner pocket 6060c' lies along a third pocket axis TPA' oriented at an angle C' relative to the longitudinal axis LA.

[0122] The angles A', B', and C' may be different. In the illustrated example, the first or inner pocket 6060a' is approximately parallel to the outer pocket 6060c'. The angle A' is approximately equal to the angle C'. That is, the first pocket axis FPA is approximately parallel to the third pocket axis TPA. The second pocket axis SPA intersects the first pocket axis FPA and the third pocket axis TPA, for example, such that the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' in the anvil 6000' form a herringbone pattern. The pockets 6060a'-6060c' may be of equal length or may have different lengths. The length of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' may be selected, for example, to optimize nesting of the pockets 6060a'-6060c'. For example, the inner pockets 6060a' may be longitudinally staggered relative to the outer pockets 6060c'. In at least one configuration, for example, the proximal cups 6066b' of at least some of the formed pockets 6060b' in the second or intermediate row 6050b' are adjacent to the distal cups 6068c' of adjacent formed pockets 6060c' in the third or outer row 6050c' of formed pockets, as shown in FIG. 48. Similarly, the distal cups 6068b' of at least some of the formed pockets 6060b' in the second or intermediate row 6050b' of formed pockets 6060b' are adjacent to a portion of the neck 6070a' and to the proximal cups 6066a' of adjacent formed cups 6060a' in the first or inner row of formed pockets 6060a'. The arrangement of the pockets 6060a'-6060c' can be configured to nest the pockets 6060a'-6060c' such that the pockets 6060a'-6060c' fit within a predetermined space. For example, in certain cases, the width of the anvil 6000' can be minimized or otherwise limited to fit within a surgical trocar and / or narrow surgical field, and the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 6060a'-6060c' (and the corresponding arrangement of staples and / or staple cavities) can fit within the narrow anvil.

[0123] The anvil 6000' may further include tissue stabilizing features and features that can increase the likelihood of proper formation of the staples as they are fired into the corresponding forming pockets 6060a'-6060c'. Examples of anvil projections are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 14 / 319,014, filed June 30, 2014 (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0297234), entitled "END EFFECTOR COMPRISING AN ANVIL INCLUDING PROJECTIONS EXTENDING THEREFROM," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, as seen in FIG. 48, a plurality of outer or first anvil projections 7000 are formed to project upwardly from the planar non-forming surface portion 6040' of the staple forming lower surface 6030'. In at least one circumstance, a first anvil projection 7000 is formed proximally adjacent each staple forming pocket 6060a' in the outer row 6050a' of staple forming pockets 6060a'. In the illustrated example, each first anvil projection 7000 is formed adjacent a corresponding first staple forming pocket 6060a' and a portion of the elongated slot 6026'. The first anvil projection 7000 may be advantageously sized and shaped to function to improve tissue stability during the clamping and stapling process and / or to increase the likelihood that the corresponding staple will be properly formed during stapling. For example, each first anvil projection 7000 may be shaped and sized to improve guidance of the staple legs of the corresponding staple into that portion of the staple forming pocket 6060a' and achieve forming contact with the corresponding portion of the proximal cup portion 6066a'. In the illustrated configuration, such a first anvil protrusion 7000 may be integrally formed with the planar surface 6040' by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the planar surface 6040' by welding, adhesive, etc., so that the protrusion 7000 protrudes from the staple forming lower surface 6040'.In at least one circumstance, the first anvil projection 7000 has a polyhedral shape having four "first" sides 7002, 7004, 7006, 7008. The two ends 7002, 7004 are triangular flat faces. The two sides 7006, 7008 extend between and intersect the ends 7002, 7004 to form a straight line 7009. The longer side 7008 is adjacent the proximal cup 6066a' and extends into the neck portion 6070a'. See FIG. 48.

[0124] 48, the anvil 6000' may further include a plurality of second anvil projections 7010 formed to project upwardly from the planar non-forming surface portion 6040' of the staple forming lower surface 6030'. In at least one circumstance, the second anvil projections 7010 are formed between a proximal end of a corresponding staple forming pocket 6060a' and a distal end of another corresponding staple forming pocket 6060a' in the row of staple forming pockets 6050a'. In addition, as shown, the second anvil projections 7010 may extend along a side of an adjacent staple forming pocket 6060b'. The second anvil projections 7010 may be advantageously sized and shaped to function to improve tissue stability during the clamping and stapling process and / or to increase the likelihood that the corresponding staples will be properly formed during stapling. For example, each second anvil projection 7010 may be shaped and sized to improve guidance of the staple legs of the staples into the corresponding portions of the staple forming pockets 6060a' and 6060b'. In the illustrated configuration, such second anvil projections 7010 may be integrally formed with the staple forming lower surface 6040' by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the staple forming lower surface 6040' by welding, adhesive, etc., such that the second anvil projections 7010 protrude from the staple non-forming surface portion 6040'. In at least one situation, the second anvil projections 7010 have a polyhedral shape having four "second" sides 7012, 7014, 7016, 7018. The two ends 7012, 7014 are triangular flat surfaces. The two sides 7016, 7018 extend between and intersect the ends 7012, 7014 to form a line 7019. The side 7018 is adjacent one side of the distal cup 6068b' and a portion of the proximal cup 6066b' of the adjacent staple forming pocket 6060b' as shown.

[0125] 48, the anvil 6000' may further include a plurality of third anvil projections 7020 projecting upwardly from the non-forming surface portion 6040' of the staple forming lower surface 6030'. In at least one circumstance, the third anvil projections 7020 are formed between a proximal end of a corresponding staple forming pocket 6060c' and a distal end of another corresponding staple forming pocket 6060a' in the row of staple forming pockets 6050a', and between a proximal cup 6066b' of a staple forming pocket 6060b' and a distal cup 6068b' of another staple forming pocket 6060b' in the row of staple forming pockets 6050b' as shown. The third anvil projections 7020 may be advantageously sized and shaped to function to improve tissue stability during the clamping and stapling process and / or to increase the likelihood that a corresponding staple will be properly formed during stapling. For example, each third anvil projection 7020 may be shaped and sized to improve guidance of the staple legs of the staples into the corresponding portions of the staple forming pockets 6060a', 6060b', and 6060c'. In the illustrated configuration, such third anvil projection 7020 may be integrally formed with the non-forming surface portion 6040' by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the non-forming surface portion 6040' by welding, adhesive, etc., such that the third anvil projection 7020 protrudes from the non-forming surface portion 6040'. In at least one situation, the third anvil projection 7020 has a polyhedral shape having four "third" sides 7022, 7024, 7026, 7028. The two ends 7022, 7024 are triangular flat surfaces. In one configuration, the sides 7022, 7024 are identical to one another. The two sides 7026, 7028 extend between and intersect the ends 7022, 7024 to form a straight line 7029. The sides 7026, 7028 may be identical to one another.

[0126] Also, in the example shown in FIG. 48, a plurality of fourth anvil projections 7030 project upwardly from the non-forming surface portion 6040' of the staple forming lower surface 6030'. In various circumstances, the fourth anvil projections 7030 may be the same size and shape as the second anvil projections 7010. In at least one circumstance, the fourth anvil projection 7030 has a polyhedral shape having four "fourth" sides 7032, 7034, 7036, 7038. For example, the end 7034 may be formed adjacent a side of the proximal cup 6066c' of the staple forming pocket 6060c' and the end 7032 may be formed adjacent a portion of the distal cup 6068c' of an adjacent staple forming pocket 6060c' in the row 6050c' of the forming pockets 6060c'. The side 7038 may be formed adjacent a side of the proximal cup 6066b' of the adjacent staple forming pocket 6060b' as shown. The sides 7032, 7034, 7036, 7038 intersect to form a line 7039. The fourth anvil projection 7030 may be advantageously sized and shaped to function to improve tissue stability during the clamping and stapling process and / or to increase the likelihood that the corresponding staple will be properly formed during stapling. For example, each fourth anvil projection 7030 may be shaped and sized to improve guidance of the staple legs of the staples into the corresponding portions of the staple forming pockets 6060c' and 6060b'. In the illustrated configuration, such fourth anvil protrusion 7030 may be integrally formed in the non-molding surface portion 6040' by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., such that the protrusion 7030 protrudes from the non-molding surface portion 6040', or may be attached to the non-molding surface portion 6040' by welding, adhesive, etc.

[0127] The anvil 6000' may further comprise a plurality of fifth anvil projections 7050. As seen in FIG. 48, in at least one circumstance, an outer or fifth anvil projection 7050 is formed proximally adjacent the distal cup 6068c' of each staple forming pocket 6060c' in the outer row 6050c' of staple forming pockets 6060c'. The fifth anvil projections 7050 may be advantageously sized and shaped to function to improve tissue stability during the clamping and stapling process and / or to increase the likelihood that the corresponding staple will be properly formed during stapling. For example, each fifth anvil projection 7050 may be shaped and sized to improve guidance of the staple legs of the corresponding staple into that portion of the staple forming pocket 6060c' and achieve forming contact with the corresponding portion of the proximal cup portion 6068c'. In the illustrated configuration, such fifth anvil projection 7050 may be integrally formed with the non-molding surface portion 6040' by stamping, pressing, coining, forging, molding, metal injection molding, electrochemical machining, etc., or may be attached to the non-molding surface portion 6040' by welding, adhesive, etc., such that the fifth anvil projection 7050 projects from the non-molding surface portion 6040'. In at least one situation, the fifth anvil projection 7050 has a polyhedral shape having four triangular sides 7052, 7054, 7056, 7058 that intersect to form a point 7059. In the illustrated example, the first anvil projection 7000 may be arranged to form a first row 7001a of first anvil projections 7000. The second anvil projection 7010 may be arranged to form a second row 7001b of second anvil projections 7010. The third anvil projection 7020 may be arranged to form a third row 7001c of third anvil projections 7020. The fourth anvil projection 7030 may be arranged to form a fourth row 7001d of fourth anvil projections 7030. The fifth anvil projection 7050 may be arranged to form a fifth row 7001e of anvil projections 7050.

[0128] The first sides 7002, 7004, 7006, 7008, the second sides 7012, 7014, 7016, 7018, the third sides 7022, 7024, 7026, 7028, the fourth sides 7032, 7034, 7036, 7038, and the fifth sides 7052, 7054, 7056, 7058 may all be oriented at the same acute side angle SA relative to the planar non-molding surface 6040'. The first side 7002, 7004, 7006, 7008, the second side 7012, 7014, 7016, 7018, the third side 7022, 7024, 7026, 7028, the fourth side 7032, 7034, 7036, 7038, and the fifth side 7052, 7054, 7056, 7058 may be oriented at different acute angles or combinations of different acute angles SA and SA' relative to the planar non-molding surface 6040' (Figure 49).

[0129] In various circumstances, anvil projections may be formed on the staple forming lower surface to project upward from the planar portion of the staple forming lower surface to form a plurality of staple guide surfaces that correspond to the staple forming pockets to guide the legs of the corresponding staples into the staple forming pockets and ultimately form the staples better and more consistently into the proper shape. Such anvil projections project above the anvil forming pockets and angle toward the periphery thereof so that, during the stapling process, when an irregularly shaped staple leg end is contacted, the anvil projections urge or encourage the irregularly shaped staple leg into the proper cup portion of the staple forming pocket for proper formation. Such anvil projections may be formed with one or more angled surfaces strategically located adjacent at least a portion of the corresponding staple forming pocket. The anvil projections may have a plurality of angled surfaces, the surfaces corresponding to one or more staple forming pockets in the anvil. The anvil projections may be formed from the same material that forms the staple forming lower surface. Various surfaces of the anvil projections may be treated (eg, coated with a friction-reducing coating, polished, etc.) to reduce friction when contacted by the staple legs.

[0130] The entirety or a majority of the staple forming underside may be covered with anvil projections sized and designed to enhance the guidance of the staple legs of the staples into the corresponding portions of the staple forming pockets. Multiple anvil projections may be used. The anvil projections may be the same size and shape, or may be different sizes and shapes. The anvil projections may be sized and shaped to completely fill the portions of the anvil forming surface between the staple forming pockets, or to fill a majority of such space. The various anvil projections may be sized and shaped to correspond to the various different staple forming pocket shapes and configurations, many of which are disclosed herein and in the various references each of which is incorporated herein in its entirety. The anvil projection configurations disclosed herein may be used with staple forming pockets arranged in a herringbone configuration as well as in a traditional non-herringbone configuration.

[0131] The various anvil projection arrangements and configurations disclosed herein may be effectively used in conjunction with anvil arrangements that employ a "stepped" staple forming undersurface. Such "stepped" anvil configurations are used in conjunction with staple cartridges having a "stepped" deck. A stepped anvil may have two forming surfaces that are not positioned on a common plane. The anvil projections disclosed herein are distinguishable from stepped deck arrangements because the anvil projections extend above the deck surface itself and angle toward a corresponding portion of the periphery of a corresponding staple forming pocket. As used in this context, the term "angle" means an acute angle of less than 90 degrees extending from a flat non-forming surface. Other anvil projection arrangements may use a rounded surface instead of a flat angled surface to help guide the staple legs into the adjacent forming pocket. Such anvil projections may also improve the stability of the tissue that is clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge and ultimately stapled and severed.

[0132] The various anvils described herein, including anvil protrusions and tissue stabilization features, may be used with a cartridge having an atraumatic extender on the deck surface of the surgical staple cartridge, such as, for example, cartridge 4000 described above. In such instances, the anvil protrusions may be aligned, substantially aligned, or approximately aligned with a corresponding one or more atraumatic extenders on the cartridge. In other anvil arrangements, the anvil protrusions may be oriented to avoid alignment or direct alignment with the atraumatic extenders on the staple cartridge. In still other configurations, the anvils may be used with staple cartridges that do not have, for example, atraumatic extenders.

[0133] FIG. 50 illustrates a portion of an anvil 7100 that may be identical to anvil 6000, for example, except for a different arrangement of staple forming pockets 7160. Similar to anvil 6000, the pockets 7160 are arranged in a herringbone configuration along a staple forming lower surface 7130 of the anvil 7100. The anvil 7100 has a staple forming lower surface 7130 and a longitudinal slot 7126. The longitudinal slot 7126 extends along a longitudinal axis LA of the anvil 7100. In certain cases, a firing element and / or a cutting element can translate through the longitudinal slot 7126 during at least a portion of a firing stroke. The staple forming pockets 7160 are defined within the staple forming lower surface 7130. The staple forming lower surface 7130 also includes a non-forming portion 7140 that extends around the pockets 7160. The non-forming portion 7140 extends entirely around each pocket 7160. In other words, the non-forming portion 7140 surrounds the staple forming pocket 7160. In other cases, at least a portion of two or more adjacent pockets 7160 may abut such that the non-forming portion 7140 is not disposed therebetween.

[0134] The rate of forming of the lower staple forming surface 7130 can be optimized. By optimizing the rate of forming, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 7140 of the anvil 7100 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 7160. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 7160 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 7130 designed to capture and form staples.

[0135] The pockets 7160 shown in FIG. 50 are arranged in an inner row 7150a, a middle row 7150b, and an outer row 7150c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 7126. The inner pockets 7160a are positioned in the inner row 7150a, the middle pockets 7160b are positioned in the middle row 7150b, and the outer pockets 7160c are positioned in the outer row 7150c. Although not shown in FIG. 50, in at least one case, the pockets 7160 on the opposite side of the slot 7126 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 7160 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 7126. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 7160 in the staple forming lower surface 7130 may be asymmetric relative to the slot 7126, and in certain cases, the anvil 7100 may not include a longitudinal slot 7126. In various cases, the pockets 7160 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 7126 .

[0136] The inner pocket 7160a is identical, the middle pocket 7160b is identical, and the outer pocket 7160c is identical. However, the inner pocket 7160a is different from the middle pocket 7160b and the outer pocket 7160c, and the middle pocket 7160b may be slightly different from the outer pocket 7160c. In other words, the pockets 7160 in each row 7150a, 7150b, and 7150c may be slightly different or may be the same or substantially the same for purposes of illustration. In other cases, the pockets 7160 in two or more rows may be the same. For example, the inner pocket 7160a may be the same as the outer pocket 7160c. The extended landing areas 7170 and 7172 of the pockets 7160a, 7160b, and 7160c are described herein and may contribute to their different geometries. Additionally, the shape and size of the extending landing areas 7170 and 7172 are limited by the perimeter 7161 of the adjacent nested pocket 7160. The landing areas 7170 and 7172 define a polygonal contour and include straight and contoured portions.

[0137] The pockets 7160 can be configured to form the staples into the same or substantially the same formed shape. In other cases, the pockets 7160 can be configured to form the staples into different formed shapes, e.g., different heights and / or shapes. In certain cases, the pockets 7160 can vary along the length within each row 7150a, 7150b, and 7150c. For example, in certain cases, the depth of the pockets 7160, or portions thereof, can vary along the length of the anvil 7100 to accommodate variations in the gap distance between the anvil and the staple cartridge along the length of the end effector and / or tissue flow, as described herein.

[0138] Still referring to FIG. 50, the pocket 7160a has a first end (i.e., proximal end) 7165a and a second end (i.e., distal end) 7167a. A first pocket axis FPA extends between the proximal end 7165a and the distal end 7167a of the pocket 7160a. The pocket 7160a has a perimeter 7161, which defines a boundary of the pocket 7160a. The perimeter 7161 has straight portions and contoured portions. More specifically, the perimeter 7161 has straight portions and contoured corners therebetween where the straight portions change direction. In at least some arrangements, at least a portion of the perimeter 7161 of each pocket 7160 closely follows or is parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of one or more adjacent pockets 7160. The rounded periphery 7161 of the pocket 7160a can provide a smoother profile, which can be easier to create by coining and / or stamping into the staple forming lower surface 7130, for example, than a pocket having sharp corners.

[0139] The pocket 7160a includes a proximal cup 7166a, a distal cup 7168a, and a neck portion 7169 extending between the proximal cup 7166a and the distal cup 7168a. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7130, the proximal cup 7166a aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7168a aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7166a and 7168a are configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the pocket axis PA and a central portion of the pocket 7160a (e.g., the neck portion 7169a) to deform the staple legs into a formed shape. Each cup 7166a, 7168a of the pocket 7160a defines an entrance slope 7180 and an exit slope 7182. When forming the staple, the tips of the staple legs can enter the respective cups 7166a, 7168a along the entrance ramp 7180 and exit the respective cups 7166a, 7168a along the exit ramp 7182. At the apex between the entrance ramp 7180 and the exit ramp 7182, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape). The pocket 7160a also defines a bridge portion 7186 in the neck portion 7169a between the proximal cup 7166a and the distal cup 7168a. The bridge portion 7186 can be offset from the non-formed portion 7140. More specifically, the bridge portion 7186 can be downwardly positioned or recessed relative to the non-formed portion 7140. The pockets 7160b and 7160c may be formed with the same shapes and characteristics as described herein with respect to the pocket 7160a. Such a configuration results in a reduction of the non-formed portion 7140 of the staple forming lower surface 7130, facilitating nesting of the respective rows of pockets. The pockets 7160a-7160c are arranged in a herringbone pattern, thereby forming a flexible staple row as described herein. Specifically, each pocket 7160b is located along a corresponding second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA of the adjacent first pocket 7160a.Each third pocket 7160c is positioned along a corresponding third pocket axis TPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. In at least one configuration, the third pocket axis TPA is parallel to the first pocket axis FPA and transverse to the second pocket axis SPA.

[0140] FIG. 51 illustrates a portion of anvil 7200 that may be identical to anvil 6000, for example, except for a different arrangement of staple forming pockets 7260. Similar to anvil 6000, pockets 7260 are arranged in a herringbone configuration along a staple forming lower surface 7230 of anvil 7200. Anvil 7200 has a staple forming lower surface 7230 and a longitudinal slot 7226. Longitudinal slot 7226 extends along a longitudinal axis LA of anvil 7200. In certain cases, a firing element and / or a cutting element can translate through longitudinal slot 7226 during at least a portion of a firing stroke. Staple forming pockets 7260 are defined within staple forming lower surface 7230. Staple forming lower surface 7230 also includes a non-forming portion 7240 that extends around pockets 7260. The non-forming portion 7240 extends entirely around each pocket 7260. In other words, the non-forming portion 7240 surrounds the staple forming pocket 7260. In other cases, at least a portion of two or more adjacent pockets 7260 may abut such that the non-forming portion 7240 is not disposed therebetween.

[0141] The forming rate of the lower staple forming surface 7230 can be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 7240 of the anvil 7200 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 7260. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 7260 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 7230 designed to capture and form staples.

[0142] The pockets 7260 shown in FIG. 51 are arranged in an inner row 7250a, a middle row 7250b, and an outer row 7250c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 7226. The inner pockets 7260a are positioned in the inner row 7250a, the middle pockets 7260b are positioned in the middle row 7250b, and the outer pockets 7260c are positioned in the outer row 7250c. Although not shown in FIG. 51, in at least one case, the pockets 7260 on the opposite side of the slot 7226 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 7260 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 7226. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 7260 in the staple forming lower surface 7230 may be asymmetric with respect to the longitudinal slot 7226, and in certain cases, the anvil 7200 may not include a slot 7226. In various cases, the pockets 7260 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 7226.

[0143] The inner pocket 7260a is identical, the middle pocket 7260b is identical, and the outer pocket 7260c is identical. However, the inner pocket 7260a may be different from the middle pocket 7260b and the outer pocket 7260c, and the middle pocket 7260b may be different from the outer pocket 7260c. In other words, the pockets 7260 in each row 7250a, 7250b, and 7250c may be different. In other cases, the pockets 7260 in two or more rows may be the same. For example, the inner pocket 7260a may be the same as the outer pocket 7260c. The extended landing areas 7270 and 7272 of the pockets 7260a, 7260b, and 7260c may contribute to the different geometries described herein. Additionally, the shape and size of the extending landing areas 7270 and 7272 are limited by the perimeter 7261 of the adjacent nested pocket 7260. The landing areas 7270 and 7272 define polygonal contours and include straight lines and contoured portions.

[0144] The pockets 7260 can be configured to form the staples into the same or substantially the same formed shape. In other cases, the pockets 7260 can be configured to form the staples into different formed shapes, e.g., different heights and / or shapes. In certain cases, the pockets 7260 can vary along the length within each row 7250a, 7250b, and 7250c. For example, in certain cases, the depth of the pockets 7260, or portions thereof, can vary along the length of the anvil 7200 to accommodate variations in the gap distance between the anvil and the staple cartridge along the length of the end effector and / or tissue flow, as described herein.

[0145] 51, the pocket 7260a has a first or proximal end 7265a and a second or distal end 7267a. A first pocket axis FPA extends between the proximal end 7265a and the distal end 7267a of the pocket 7260a. The pocket 7260a has a perimeter 7261, which defines a boundary of the pocket 7260a. The perimeter 7261 has straight portions and contoured portions. More specifically, the perimeter 7261 has straight portions and contoured corner portions between the straight portions where the straight portions change direction. In at least some arrangements, at least a portion of the perimeter 7261 of each pocket 7260 closely follows or is parallel to at least a portion of the perimeter of one or more adjacent pockets 7260. The rounded periphery 7261 of the pocket 7260a can provide a smoother profile, which can be easier to create by coining and / or stamping into the staple forming lower surface 7230, for example, than a pocket having sharp corners.

[0146] The pocket 7260a includes a proximal cup 7266a, a distal cup 7268a, and a neck portion 7269 extending between the proximal cup 7266a and the distal cup 7268a. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7230, the proximal cup 7266a aligns with the proximal staple leg and the distal cup 7268a aligns with the distal staple leg. The cups 7266a and 7268a are configured to direct or drive the staple leg toward the first pocket axis FPA and a central portion of the pocket 7260a (e.g., the neck portion 7269a) to deform the staple leg into a formed shape. Each cup 7266a, 7268a of the pocket 7260a defines an entrance slope 7280 and an exit slope 7282. When forming the staple, the tips of the staple legs can enter the respective cups 7266a, 7268a along the entrance ramp 7280 and exit the respective cups 7266a, 7268a along the exit ramp 7282. At the apex between the entrance ramp 7280 and the exit ramp 7282, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a deformed B-shape). The pocket 7260a also defines a bridge portion 7286 in the neck portion 7269a between the proximal cup 7266a and the distal cup 7268a. The bridge portion 7286 can be offset from the non-formed portion 7240. More specifically, the bridge portion 7286 can be downwardly positioned or recessed relative to the non-formed portion 7240. The pockets 7260b and 7260c may be formed with the same shapes and characteristics as described herein with respect to the pocket 7260a. Such an arrangement results in a reduction of the non-formed portion 7240 of the staple forming lower surface 7230 and facilitates nesting of the respective rows of pockets. The pockets 7260a-7260c are arranged in a herringbone pattern, thereby forming a flexible staple row as described herein. Specifically, each pocket 7260b is located along a corresponding second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA of the adjacent first pocket 7260a.Each third pocket 7260c is positioned along a corresponding third pocket axis TPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. In at least one configuration, the third pocket axis TPA is parallel to the first pocket axis FPA and transverse to the second pocket axis SPA.

[0147] 52, a portion of the anvil 7300 is shown with staple forming pockets 7360. The anvil 7300 has a staple forming lower surface 7330 and a longitudinal slot 7326. The longitudinal slot 7326 extends along the longitudinal axis LA of the anvil 7300. In certain cases, a firing element and / or a cutting element can translate through the longitudinal slot 7326 during at least a portion of a firing stroke. The staple forming pockets 7360 are defined within the staple forming lower surface 7360. The staple forming lower surface 7330 also includes a non-forming portion 7340 that extends around the pockets 7360. The non-forming portion 7340 extends entirely around each pocket 7360 in FIG. 52. In other words, the non-forming portion 7340 surrounds the staple forming pockets 7360. In other cases, at least a portion of two or more adjacent pockets 7360 may abut such that no non-shaped portion 7340 is disposed therebetween.

[0148] The rate of forming of the lower staple forming surface 7330 can be optimized. By optimizing the rate of forming, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 7340 of the anvil 7300 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 7360. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 7360 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 7340 designed to capture and form staples.

[0149] The pockets 7360 shown in FIG. 52 are arranged in three rows 7350a, 7350b, 7350c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 7326. The first row 7350a is an inner row, the second row 7350b is a middle row, and the third row 7350c is an outer row. The inner pockets 7360 are positioned in the inner row 7350a, the middle pockets 7360 are positioned in the middle row 7350b, and the outer pockets 7360 are positioned in the outer row 7350c. As with the anvil 7200, the pockets 7360 are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 7330 of the anvil 7300. Although not shown in FIG. 52, in at least one case, the pockets 7360 on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 7326 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 7360 on the first side of the slot 7326. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 7360 in the staple forming lower surface 7330 may be asymmetric with respect to the longitudinal slots 7326, and in certain cases, the anvil 7300 may not include a slot 7326. In various cases, the pockets 7360 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 7326.

[0150] The pockets 7360 shown in FIG. 52 are identical to one another. Each pocket 7360 defined in the staple forming lower surface 7330 has the same geometry. In other cases, the geometry of the pockets 7360 may vary from row to row and / or may vary longitudinally along the length of the anvil 7300. For example, in certain cases, as described herein, the depth of the pockets 7360, or portions thereof, may vary along the length of the anvil 7300 to accommodate variations in the gap distance between the anvil and the staple cartridge along the length of the end effector and / or tissue flow. In at least one configuration, the pockets 7360 have a first end (i.e., proximal end) 7365 and a second end (i.e., distal end) 7367. A first pocket axis FPA extends between the proximal end 7365 and the distal end 7367 of each of the pockets 7360 in the first row 7350a. The pocket 7360 has a perimeter 7361 that defines a boundary of the pocket 7360. The pocket 7360 also includes a proximal cup 7366, a distal cup 7368, and a neck portion 7369 connecting the proximal cup 7366 and the distal cup 7368. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7303, the proximal cup 7366 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7368 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7366 and 7368 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the corresponding pocket axis and central portion of the pocket 7360 (e.g., neck portion 7369) and deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0151] 52, each cup 7366, 7368 of the pocket 7360 defines an entry slope 7370 and an exit slope 7372. The exit slope 7372 can be steeper than the entry slope 7330. When forming a staple, the tips of the staple legs can enter the respective cups 7366, 7368 along the entry slope 7370 and exit the respective cups 7366, 7368 along the exit slope 7332. At an apex region or parting line 7374 between the entry slope 7370 and the exit slope 7372, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape). The pocket 7360 also defines a bridge portion 7376 in a neck portion 7369 between the proximal cup 7366 and the distal cup 7368. The bridge portion 7376 can be offset from the non-forming portion 7340 of the staple forming lower surface 7330. More specifically, the bridge portion 7376 can be underlain or recessed relative to the non-forming portion 7340.

[0152] In at least one example, the pocket 7360 includes a sidewall 7377. In at least one configuration, the sidewall 7377 narrows linearly from the outer end of each cup 7366, 7368 toward the neck portion 7369. As a result, the widest portions of the cups 7366, 7368 are at the proximal 7365 and distal 7367 ends of the pocket 7360, respectively. The wider areas at the proximal 7365 and distal 7367 ends along the sidewall 7377 provide an enlarged footprint for receiving the tips of the staple legs. In various cases, the wider portions of the cups 7366 and 7368 define an expanded landing area for receiving the staple tips. The cups 7366, 7368 narrow toward the neck portion 7369 such that the cups 7366, 7368 are configured to feed and / or guide the staple leg tips toward and / or along the pocket axis into a formed shape. The pocket 7360 defines a chamfered edge 7378 along a side of the pocket 7360. The chamfered edge 7378 serves to increase the footprint of the pocket 7360 and guide the staple leg tips toward the pocket axis. In the illustrated configuration, the pocket 7360 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7361 of the pocket 7360 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis. Additionally, the pocket 7360 is symmetrical about a central axis CA through the neck portion 7369 and perpendicular to the pocket axis. For example, the periphery 7361 of the pocket 7360 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 7366 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7368. In other cases, the proximal cup 7366 may be different from the distal cup 7368. In various circumstances, the width of the neck portion 7369 is less than the widths of the cups 7366 and 7368. As a result, the central portion of the pocket 7360 is narrower than the proximal cup 7366 and the distal cup 7368.

[0153] The geometry of the pocket 7360 facilitates the pocket 7360 being closely spaced within the staple forming lower surface 7330. For example, the pocket 7360 may have a narrowed neck portion 7369 between two enlarged cups 7366 and 7368, with the enlarged cups 7366, 7368 of another pocket 7360 positioned adjacent to the narrowed neck portion 7369. As a result, the surface area of ​​the staple forming lower surface 7330 covered by the pocket 7360 may be optimized. For example, the surface area of ​​the staple forming lower surface 7330 covered by the pocket 7360 is maximized. The "forming ratio" is the ratio of the non-forming portion 7340 to the forming portion (i.e., the pocket 7360). In various cases, the forming ratio may be, for example, at least 1:1.

[0154] In certain cases, the pockets 7360 are positioned very close to one another, but because the neck portions 7369 are narrow, there is space for the non-formed portions 7340 between adjacent pockets 7360. For example, the non-formed portions 7340 may extend between the neck portions 7369 of the pockets 7360 in the inner row 7350a and the distal cups 7368 of the adjacent pockets 7360 in the second intermediate pocket 7350b. The non-formed portions 7340 between adjacent pockets 7360 can provide sufficient spacing between the pockets 7360 to strengthen and / or reinforce the anvil 7300. The pockets 7360 are arranged in a herringbone pattern, thereby forming a flexible staple row as described herein. In particular, each pocket 7360 in the first row 7350a is located along a corresponding first pocket axis FPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each pocket 7360 in the second row 7350b of pockets 7360 lies along a corresponding second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA of the adjacent pocket 7360 in the first row 7350a. Each pocket 7360 in the third row 7350c of pockets 7360 lies along a corresponding third pocket axis TPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. In at least one configuration, the third pocket axis TPA is parallel to the first pocket axis FPA and transverse to the second pocket axis SPA.

[0155] 53, a portion of an anvil 7400 is shown with staple forming pockets 7460. The anvil 7400 has a staple forming lower surface 7430 and a longitudinal slot 7426. The longitudinal slot 7426 extends along a longitudinal axis LA of the anvil 7400. In certain cases, a firing element and / or a cutting element can translate through the longitudinal slot 7426 during at least a portion of a firing stroke. The staple forming pockets 7460 are defined within the staple forming lower surface 7430. The staple forming lower surface 7430 also includes a non-forming portion 7440 that extends around the pockets 7460. The non-forming portion 7440 extends entirely around each pocket 7460. In other words, the non-forming portion 7440 surrounds the staple forming pockets 7460. In other cases, at least a portion of two or more adjacent pockets 7460 may abut such that no non-shaped portion 7440 is disposed therebetween. Additionally, the non-shaped portion 7440 extends through each pocket 7460, as described herein.

[0156] The forming rate of the lower staple forming surface 7430 can be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 7440 of the anvil 7400 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 7460. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 7460 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the lower staple forming surface 7440 designed to capture and form staples.

[0157] The pockets 7460 shown in FIG. 53 are arranged in an inner row 7450a, a middle row 7450b, and an outer row 7450c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 7426. The inner pockets 7460 are positioned in the inner row 7450a, the middle pockets 7460 are positioned in the middle row 7450b, and the outer pockets 7460 are positioned in the outer row 7450c. The pockets 7460 are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 7430 of the anvil 7430. Although not shown in FIG. 53, in at least one case, the pockets 7460 on the opposite side of the slot 7426 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 7460 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 7426. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 7460 in the staple forming lower surface 7430 may be asymmetric relative to the slots 7426, and in certain cases, the anvil 7400 may not include a longitudinal slot 7426. In various cases, the pockets 7460 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 7426.

[0158] The pockets 7460 shown in FIG. 53 are identical to one another. Each pocket 7460 defined in the staple forming lower surface 7430 has the same geometry. In other cases, the geometry of the pockets 7460 may vary from row to row and / or may vary longitudinally along the length of the anvil 7400. For example, in certain cases, as described herein, the depth of the pockets 7460, or portions thereof, may vary along the length of the anvil 7400 to accommodate variations in the gap distance between the anvil and the staple cartridge along the length of the end effector and / or tissue flow. In at least one example, the pocket 7460 has a first end (i.e., proximal end) 7465 and a second end (i.e., distal end) 7468. A pocket axis extends between the proximal end 7465 and the distal end 7467 of the pocket 7460. The pocket 7460 has a perimeter 7461 that defines a boundary for the pocket 7460. The perimeter 7461 has rounded corners at a proximal end 7465 and a distal end 7467 of the pocket 7460. The pocket 7460 also includes a proximal cup 7466 and a distal cup 7468. A portion of the non-forming portion 7440 extends between the proximal cup 7466 and the distal cup 7468. In other words, the pocket 7460 includes two separate individual cups 7466 and 7468 in the staple forming lower surface 7430. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7430, the proximal cup 7466 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7468 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7466, 7468 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the pocket axis and a central portion of the pocket 7460 and to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0159] Referring primarily to FIG. 53 , each cup 7466, 7468 of the pocket 7460 defines an entry slope 7480 and an exit slope 7482. The exit slope 7482 is steeper than the entry slope 7480. When forming a staple, the staple leg tips may enter the respective corresponding cups 7466, 7468 along the entry slope 7480 and exit the respective cups 7466, 7468 along the exit slope 7482. At an apex 7484 between the entry slope 7480 and the exit slope 7482, the staple leg tips are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape). The pocket 7460 also defines a bridge portion 7486 between the proximal cup 7466 and the distal cup 7468. The bridge portion 7486 is aligned with the non-formed portion 7440. More specifically, the bridge portion 7486 is a planar extension of the non-molded portion 7440 and extends between the proximal cup 7466 and the distal cup 7468 .

[0160] In the illustrated example, each pocket 7460 includes a pair of side walls 7478 oriented at an angle relative to the non-formed portion 7440. The angular orientation of the side walls 7478 may be constant along the length of each of the cups 7466, 7468. The distance between the side walls 7478 narrows between the outer end of each cup 7466, 7468 and the inner end of the cups 7466, 7468. For example, the side walls 7478 extend along an inner contour to define a contour within the perimeter 7461 of the pocket 7460. The widest portions of the cups 7466, 7468 are at the proximal and distal ends of the pocket 7460. The wider areas provide an expanded footprint to receive the tips of the staple legs. As the cups 7466, 7468 narrow toward the bridge portion 7486, the side walls 7478 are configured to feed and / or guide the tips of the staple legs toward and / or along the pocket axis into a formed shape.

[0161] In the illustrated configuration, the pockets 7460 located in the first or inner row 7450a of pockets 7460 are positioned along a first pocket axis FPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each of the pockets 7460 in the second or middle row 7450b of pockets 7460 is positioned along a second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA. Each of the pockets in the outer or third row 7450c of pockets 7460, in one configuration, is positioned along a third pocket axis TPA that is parallel to the first pocket axis FPA, or that may not be parallel to the first pocket axis but is still transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each pocket 7460 is symmetrical about its corresponding pocket axis. For example, the periphery 7461 of the pocket 7460 is symmetrical about the pocket axis. Additionally, the pocket 7460 is symmetrical about a central axis CA between the proximal cup 7466 and the distal cup 7468, each perpendicular to the corresponding pocket axis. For example, the periphery 7461 of the pocket 7460 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 74660 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7468. In other cases, the proximal cup 7466 may be different than the distal cup 7468. U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15 / 385,900, filed December 21, 2016, and entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS" (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0168601), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses other pocket configurations that may be used with the various anvil configurations disclosed herein.

[0162] 54-57 illustrate other pocket configurations that may be used with the various anvil configurations disclosed herein. With reference to FIG. 54, pocket 7560 includes a first or proximal end 7565 and a second or distal end 7567. A pocket axis PA extends between the proximal end 7565 and the distal end 7567. Pocket 7560 has a perimeter 7561 that defines a boundary of pocket 7560. Pocket 7560 also includes a proximal cup 7566, a distal cup 7568, and a neck portion 7569 connecting proximal cup 7566 and distal cup 7568. Each cup 7566, 7568 of pocket 7560 defines an inlet slope 7570 and an outlet slope 7572. When forming the staple, the tips of the staple legs may enter the respective cups 7566, 7568 along the entrance ramp 7570 and exit the respective cups 7566, 7568 along the exit ramp 7532. At the apex region or parting line 7574 between the entrance ramp 7570 and the exit ramp 7572, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or modified B-shape). In the illustrated example, the pocket 7560 includes a centrally disposed forming groove 7580 that is located along the pocket axis PA and extends from the proximal cup 7566 to the distal cup 7568. As illustrated, the forming groove 7580 bisects each of the entrance ramp 7570 and the exit ramp 7572.

[0163] The pocket 7560 also defines a bridge portion 7576 in the neck portion 7569 between the proximal cup 7566 and the distal cup 7568. The bridge portion 7576 can be offset from the non-forming portion 7540 of the staple forming lower surface 7530. More specifically, the bridge portion 7576 can be recessed or under-positioned relative to the non-forming portion 7540. In at least one example, the pocket 7560 includes side walls 7577. In at least one configuration, the distance between the side walls 7577 narrows linearly from the outer end of each cup 7566, 7568 toward the neck portion 7569. As a result, the widest portions of the cups 7566, 7568 are at the proximal and distal ends 7565, 7567 of the pocket 7560, respectively. The wider areas at the proximal and distal ends 7565, 7567, in conjunction with the side walls 7577, provide an enlarged footprint for receiving the staple leg tips, preferably within the staple forming grooves 7580. In various cases, the wider portions of the cups 7566, 7568 define an enlarged landing area for receiving the staple tips. Because the cups 7566, 7568 narrow toward the neck portion 7369, the cups 7366, 7368 are configured to feed and / or guide the staple leg tips toward and / or along the pocket axis into the forming grooves 7580 to form a formed shape. The pocket 7560 defines a chamfered edge 7578 along the side of the pocket 7560. The chamfered edge 7578 functions to enlarge the footprint of the pocket 7560 and to guide the staple leg tips toward the pocket axis. In the illustrated configuration, the pocket 7560 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7561 of the pocket 7560 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis. Additionally, the pocket 7560 is symmetrical about a central axis CA through the neck portion 7569, which is perpendicular to the pocket axis. For example, the periphery 7561 of the pocket 7560 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 7566 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7568. In other cases, the proximal cup 7566 may be different from the distal cup 7568. In various circumstances, the width of the neck portion 7569 is less than the width of the cups 7566 and 7568.As a result, a central portion of the pocket 7560 is narrower than the proximal and distal cups 7566, 7568. In the illustrated configuration, the proximal cup 7566 has a pointed end 7590 and the distal cup 7568 has a pointed end 7592. A forming groove 7580 extends from each pointed end 7590, 7592 to increase the likelihood that the tips of the staple legs will enter into the forming grooves 7580 during firing. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7530, the proximal cup 7566 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7568 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7566 and 7568 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs toward the corresponding pocket axes, forming grooves 7580, and central portions (e.g., neck portions 7569) of the pockets 7560, causing the staple legs to deform into their formed shapes.

[0164] 55, the pocket 7660 includes a first or proximal end 7665 and a second or distal end 7667. A pocket axis PA extends between the proximal end 7665 and the distal end 7667. The pocket 7660 has a perimeter 7661 that defines a boundary of the pocket 7660. The pocket 7660 also includes a proximal cup 7666, a distal cup 7668, and a neck portion 7669 that connects the proximal cup 7666 and the distal cup 7668. In the illustrated example, the pocket 7660 includes a centrally disposed molded groove 7680 that is positioned along the pocket axis PA and extends from the proximal cup 7666 to the distal cup 7668. The molded groove 7680 defines an entrance ramp 7670 and an exit ramp 7672. When forming the staples, the tips of the staple legs may enter the respective cups 7666, 7668 along an entrance ramp 7670 and exit the respective cups 7666, 7668 along an exit ramp 7672. At the apex region or parting line 7674 between the entrance ramp 7670 and the exit ramp 7672, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape).

[0165] The pocket 7660 also defines a bridge portion 7676 in the neck portion 7669 between the proximal cup 7666 and the distal cup 7668. The bridge portion 7676 can be offset from the non-formed portion 7640 of the staple forming lower surface 7630. More specifically, the bridge portion 7676 can be recessed or under-positioned relative to the non-formed portion 7640. In at least one example, the pocket 7660 includes side walls 7677. In at least one configuration, the distance between the side walls 7677 narrows linearly from the outer end of each cup 7666, 7668 toward the neck portion 7669. As a result, the widest portions of the cups 7666, 7668 are at the proximal and distal ends 7665, 7667 of the pocket 7660, respectively. The wider areas at the proximal and distal ends 7665, 7667, in conjunction with the side walls 7677, provide an enlarged footprint for receiving the staple leg tips, preferably within the staple forming grooves 7680. In various cases, the wider portions of the cups 7666, 7668 define an enlarged landing area for receiving the staple tips. The cups 7666, 7668 narrow toward the neck portion 7669 such that the cups 7666, 7668 are configured to feed and / or guide the staple leg tips into the forming grooves 7680 toward and / or along the pocket axis into a formed shape. The pocket 7660 defines a chamfered edge 7678 along a side of the pocket 7660. The chamfered edge 7678 functions to enlarge the footprint of the pocket 7660 and to guide the staple leg tips toward the pocket axis. In the illustrated configuration, the pocket 7660 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7661 of the pocket 7660 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis. Additionally, the pocket 7660 is symmetrical about a central axis CA through the neck portion 7669 and perpendicular to the pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7661 of the pocket 7660 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 7666 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7668. In other cases, the proximal cup 7666 may be different from the distal cup 7668.In various circumstances, the width of the neck portion 7669 is less than the width of the cups 7666 and 7668. As a result, a central portion of the pocket 7560 is narrower than the proximal cup 7666 and the distal cup 7668. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7630, the proximal cup 7666 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7668 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7666 and 7668 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs into the corresponding pocket axes, forming grooves 7680, and central portions of the pocket 7660 (e.g., neck portions 7669) to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0166] 56 , the pocket 7760 includes a first or proximal end 7765 and a second or distal end 7767. A pocket axis PA extends between the proximal end 7765 and the distal end 7767. The pocket 7760 has a perimeter 7761 that defines a boundary of the pocket 7760. The pocket 7760 also includes a proximal cup 7766, a distal cup 7768, and a neck portion 7769 that connects the proximal cup 7766 and the distal cup 7768. In the illustrated example, the pocket 7760 includes a centrally disposed molded groove 7780 that is located along the pocket axis PA and extends from the proximal cup 7766 to the distal cup 7768. The molded groove 7780 defines an entrance ramp 7770 and an exit ramp 7772. When forming the staples, the tips of the staple legs may enter the respective cups 7766, 7768 along an entrance ramp 7770 and exit the respective cups 7766, 7768 along an exit ramp 7772. At the apex region or parting line 7774 between the entrance ramp 7770 and the exit ramp 7772, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape).

[0167] The pocket 7760 also defines a bridge portion 7776 in the neck portion 7769 between the proximal cup 7766 and the distal cup 7768. The bridge portion 7776 can be offset from the non-forming portion 7740 of the staple forming lower surface 7730. More specifically, the bridge portion 7776 can be recessed or under-positioned relative to the non-forming portion 7740. In at least one example, the pocket 7760 includes side walls 7777. In at least one configuration, the distance between the side walls 7777 narrows linearly from the outer end of each cup 7766, 7768 toward the neck portion 7769. As a result, the widest portions of the cups 7766, 7768 are at the proximal and distal ends 7765, 7767 of the pocket 7760, respectively. The wider areas at the proximal and distal ends 7765, 7767 in conjunction with the side walls 7777 provide an enlarged footprint for receiving the staple leg tips preferably within the staple forming grooves 7780. In various cases, the wider portions of the cups 7766, 7768 define an enlarged landing area for receiving the staple tips. The cups 7766, 7768 narrow toward the neck portion 7769 such that the cups 7766, 7768 are configured to feed and / or guide the staple leg tips toward and / or along the pocket axis into the forming grooves 7780 to form a formed shape. The pocket 7760 defines a chamfered edge 7778 along the side of the pocket 7760. The chamfered edge 7778 functions to enlarge the footprint of the pocket 7760 and guide the staple leg tips toward the pocket axis. In the illustrated configuration, the pocket 7760 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7761 of the pocket 7760 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis. Additionally, the pocket 7760 is symmetrical about a central axis CA through the neck portion 7769 and perpendicular to the pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7761 of the pocket 7760 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 7766 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7768. In other cases, the proximal cup 7766 may be different from the distal cup 7768.In various circumstances, the width of the neck portion 7769 is less than the width of the cups 7766 and 7768. As a result, a central portion of the pocket 7560 is narrower than the proximal cup 7766 and the distal cup 7768. When a staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7730, the proximal cup 7766 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7768 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7666 and 7768 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs into the corresponding pocket axes, forming grooves 7780, and central portions of the pocket 7760 (e.g., neck portions 7769) to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0168] 57 , the pocket 7860 includes a first or proximal end 7865 and a second or distal end 7867. A pocket axis PA extends between the proximal end 7865 and the distal end 7867. The pocket 7860 has a perimeter 7861 that defines a boundary of the pocket 7860. The pocket 7860 also includes a proximal cup 7866, a distal cup 7868, and a neck portion 7869 connecting the proximal cup 7866 and the distal cup 7868. Each of the proximal cup 7866 and the distal cup 7868 defines an entrance ramp 7870 and an exit ramp 7872. When forming the staples, the tips of the staple legs may enter the respective cups 7866, 7868 along an entrance ramp 7870 and exit the respective cups 7866, 7868 along an exit ramp 7872. At the apex region or parting line 7874 between the entrance ramp 7870 and the exit ramp 7872, the tips of the staple legs are deformed toward the staple base to assume a formed shape (e.g., a B-shape or a modified B-shape).

[0169] The pocket 7860 also defines a bridge portion 7876 in the neck portion 7869 between the proximal cup 7866 and the distal cup 7868. The bridge portion 7876 can be offset from the non-forming portion 7840 of the staple forming lower surface 7830. More specifically, the bridge portion 7876 can be downwardly positioned or recessed relative to the non-forming portion 7840. In at least one example, the pocket 7860 includes three side walls 7877, 7878, 7879. The side walls 7877, 7878, 7879 can be angled relative to one another. In at least one configuration, the distance between the side walls 7878, 7879 narrows linearly from the outer end of each cup 7866, 7868 toward the neck portion 7869. As a result, the widest portions of the cups 7866, 7868 are at the proximal and distal ends 7865, 7867 of the pocket 7860, respectively. The wider areas at the proximal and distal ends 7865, 7867, along with the side walls 7877, 7878, 7879, provide an enlarged footprint for receiving the staple leg tips within the cups 7866, 7868. In various cases, the wider portions of the cups 7866, 7868 define an expanded landing area for receiving the staple tips. Because the cups 7866, 7868 narrow toward the neck portion 7869, the cups 7866, 7868 are configured to feed and / or guide the staple leg tips toward and / or along the pocket axis PA into a formed shape. The pocket 7860 defines chamfered edges 7878 along the sides of the pocket 7860. The chamfered edges 7878 serve to increase the footprint of the pocket 7860 and guide the tips of the staple legs toward the pocket axis. In the illustrated configuration, the pocket 7860 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7861 of the pocket 7860 is symmetrical about a corresponding pocket axis PA. Additionally, the pocket 7860 is symmetrical about a central axis CA through the neck portion 7869 and perpendicular to the pocket axis PA. For example, the periphery 7861 of the pocket 7860 is symmetrical about the central axis CA, and the proximal cup 7866 has the same geometry as the distal cup 7868.In other cases, the proximal cup 7866 may be different than the distal cup 7868. In various circumstances, the width of the neck portion 7869 is less than the width of the cups 7866 and 7868. As a result, the central portion of the pocket 7860 is narrower than the proximal cup 7866 and the distal cup 7868. When the staple is driven into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 7730, the proximal cup 7866 aligns with the proximal staple legs and the distal cup 7868 aligns with the distal staple legs. The cups 7866 and 7868 are configured to direct or drive the staple legs into the corresponding pocket axes, forming grooves 7880, and central portions of the pocket 7860 (e.g., neck portions 7869) to deform the staple legs into a formed shape.

[0170] 58 illustrates another form of anvil 8000 similar to the anvil 6000 described above, except for the differences discussed herein. The anvil 8000 includes an anvil body 8010 defining a staple forming lower surface, generally referred to as 8030, with an elongated slot 8026 extending therethrough. The staple forming lower surface 8030 defines a ledge 8032, 8034 on each side of the slot 8026 in the anvil body 8010, which functions to slidingly engage a protrusion formed on or attached to a knife of a firing member passing through the slot 8026 during the staple firing and tissue cutting process. The staple forming lower surface 8030 includes a planar surface portion 8040, which may be referred to herein as a "non-forming surface portion," on each side of the slot 8026, each of which has a plurality of staple forming pockets 8060 formed therein. The anvil 8000 is generally complementary to the particular staples supported within the elongate channels. For example, the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 8060 within the anvil 8000 may correspond to the arrangement of the staples and staple cavities within the staple cartridge supported within the elongate channels. The forming rate of the staple forming lower surface may be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 8040 of the anvil 8000 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 8060. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 8060 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the staple forming lower surface 8030 designed to capture and form staples.

[0171] In the illustrated configuration, the staple forming pockets 8060 are arranged in three rows 8050a, 8050b, 8050c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8026. The first row 8050a is an inner row, the second row 8050b is a middle row, and the third row 8050c is an outer row. The inner pocket 8060a is positioned in the inner row 8050a, the middle pocket 8060b is positioned in the middle row 8050b, and the outer pocket 8060c is positioned in the outer row 8050c. The pockets 8060a-8060c are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 8030 of the anvil 8000. In at least one case, the pockets 8060a-8060c on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 8026 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 8060a-8060c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8026. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 8060 in the staple forming lower surface 8030 may be asymmetric about the longitudinal slot 8026, and in certain cases, the anvil 8000 may not include a longitudinal slot 8026. In various cases, the pockets 8060 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 8026. The pockets 8060a-8060c may include, for example, the pockets 6060 described herein, or they may include other pockets, including any of the other pocket configurations disclosed herein.

[0172] In the example shown in FIG. 58, the anvil 8000 includes a plurality of tissue stabilization features 8080. In at least one configuration, each stabilization feature 8080 includes a tissue stabilization cavity 8082 formed in the staple forming lower surface 8030. More specifically, each tissue stabilization cavity 8082 includes an elongated cavity formed in the non-forming surface portion 8040 of the anvil 8000. In the illustrated example, there are two rows 8070a, 8070b of tissue stabilization cavities 8082, one on each side of the elongated slot 8026. Each tissue stabilization cavity 8082 has a closed bottom 8084 and vertical sidewall(s) 8086 extending therefrom. In one configuration, the bottom 8084 is planar. However, in other configurations, the closed bottom 8084 may not be planar. The tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may be as deep as the pockets 8060. The tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-8060c or may be shallower than the pockets 8060a-8060c. In yet other configurations, some of the tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-8060c and other tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may be shallower than the pockets 8060a-8060c within the same anvil 8000. The tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may have the same perimeter shape as the pockets 8060a-8060c or may have a perimeter shape that is different from the perimeter shape of the pockets 8060a-8060c. Each tissue stabilization cavity 8082 may be longer and / or wider than the pockets 8060a-8060c, or the tissue stabilization cavities 8082 may be shorter and / or narrower than the pockets 8060a-8060c. The tissue stabilization cavity 8082 may be distinguishable from the pockets 8060a-8060c in that the tissue stabilization cavity has a closed bottom 8084. The tissue stabilization cavity 8082 may be designed to receive adjacent tissue therein during the clamping and stapling process, while the closed bottom 8084 and smooth interior wall(s) 8086 prevent tissue from becoming caught or trapped, which could result in tissue damage as the tissue is removed from the end effector.

[0173] 58, each tissue stabilization cavity 8082 lies along a stabilization axis SA. The stabilization axis SA intersects the first pocket axis FPA, the second pocket axis SPA, and the third pocket axis TPA. The stabilization axes of the tissue stabilization cavities 8082 in the first or inner row 8079a of tissue stabilization cavities 8082 are parallel to the stabilization axes of the tissue stabilization cavities 8082 in the outer or second row 8079b of tissue stabilization cavities 8082. Each of the stabilization axes SA intersects the longitudinal axis LA. During the stapling process, when the anvil 8000 pivots onto the target tissue to clamp the target tissue between the staple forming lower surface 8030 of the anvil 8000 and the staple cartridge in the end effector, a corresponding portion of the target tissue may enter the tissue stabilization cavity 8082, which helps to minimize translation and rotation of the target tissue as the knife or firing member advances through the anvil 8000. The angled orientation of the tissue stabilization cavity 8082 relative to the direction of the knife (along the longitudinal axis LA) may serve to further stabilize the tissue during cutting. In addition, because a portion of the target tissue may enter the stabilization cavity, the anvil 8000 may assume a closer position relative to the cartridge during firing, thereby reducing the amount of bending stress normally imposed on the anvil. Such an advantage may also result in lower closure and firing forces being required during the closure and firing process.

[0174] 59 illustrates another form of anvil 8100 similar to the anvil 8000 described above, except for the differences discussed herein. The anvil 8100 includes an anvil body 8110 defining a staple forming lower surface, generally referred to as 8130, with an elongated slot 8126 extending therethrough. The staple forming lower surface 8130 includes a planar surface portion 8140, which may be referred to herein as a "non-forming surface portion," on each side of the slot 8126, each of which has a plurality of staple forming pockets 8060 formed therein. The anvil 8100 is generally complementary to a particular staple supported within the elongated channel. For example, the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 8060 within the anvil 8100 may correspond to the arrangement of the staples and staple cavities within a staple cartridge supported within the elongated channel. The forming rate of the staple forming lower surface may be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 8140 of the anvil 8100 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 8060. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 8060 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the staple forming lower surface 8130 designed to capture and form staples.

[0175] In the illustrated configuration, the staple forming pockets 8060 are arranged in three rows 8050a, 8050b, 8050c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8126. The first row 8050a is an inner row, the second row 8050b is a middle row, and the third row 8050c is an outer row. The inner pocket 8060a is positioned in the inner row 8050a, the middle pocket 8060b is positioned in the middle row 8050b, and the outer pocket 8060c is positioned in the outer row 8050c. The pockets 8060a-8060c are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 8130 of the anvil 8100. In at least one case, the pockets 8060a-8060c on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 8126 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 8060a-8060c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8126. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 8060 in the staple forming lower surface 8130 may be asymmetric with respect to the slot 8026, and in certain cases, the anvil 8100 may not include a longitudinal slot 8126. In various cases, the pockets 8060 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 8026. The pockets 8060a-8060c may include, for example, the pockets 6060 described herein, or they may include other pockets, including any of the other pocket configurations disclosed herein. Each first pocket 8060a is located along a corresponding first pocket axis FPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each second pocket 8060b is located along a corresponding second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA. Each third pocket 8060c is located along a corresponding third pocket axis TPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the second pocket axis SPA. The third pocket axis TPA may be parallel to the first pocket axis FPA.

[0176] In the example shown in FIG. 59, the anvil 8100 includes a plurality of tissue stabilization features 8180 arranged in four rows 8170a, 8170b, 8170c, 8170d on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8126. The first row 8170a is an inner row and includes a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities 8182a each disposed on a corresponding first stabilization axis FSA transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each first stabilization axis FSA may be parallel to the first pocket axis FPA. The second row 8170b is an intermediate row and includes a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities 8182b each disposed on a corresponding second stabilization axis SSA transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first stabilization axis FSA. Each second stabilization axis SSA may be parallel to the second pocket axis SPA. The third row 8170c is another intermediate row including a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities 8182c each disposed on a corresponding third stabilization axis TSA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first stabilization axis FSA. Each second stabilization axis SSA may be parallel to the second stabilization axis SSA and the second pocket axis SPA. The fourth row 8170d is an outer row including a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities 8182d each disposed on a corresponding fourth stabilization axis FRSA that is parallel to the longitudinal axis LA. Each of the fourth stabilization cavities 8182d may be oriented along a corresponding outer edge 8112 of the anvil body 8110, for example as shown in FIG. 59.

[0177] In a particular example, each tissue stabilization cavity 8182a-d has a closed bottom 8184 and a vertical sidewall 8186 extending therefrom. In one configuration, the bottom 8184 is planar. However, in other configurations, the closed bottom 8184 may not be planar. The tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be as deep as the pockets 8060a-c. The tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-c or shallower than the pockets 8060a-c. In yet other configurations, some of the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-c and other tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be shallower than the pockets 8060a-c within the same anvil 8100. The tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may have the same perimeter shape as the pockets 8060a-c or may have a different perimeter shape than the perimeter shape of the pockets 8060a-c. Each tissue stabilization cavity 8082 may be longer and / or wider than the pockets 8060a-c, or the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be shorter and / or narrower than the pockets 8060a-c. The tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be distinguishable from the pockets 8060a-c in that the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d have a closed bottom 8184. While the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-d may be designed to receive adjacent tissue therein during the clamping and stapling process, the closed bottom 8184 and smooth interior walls or walls 8186 prevent tissue from becoming caught or trapped, which, if this occurs, could result in tissue damage as the tissue is removed from the end effector. Each of the first, second and third stabilization axes FSA, SSA, TSA transverse the longitudinal axis LA.During the stapling process, when the anvil 8100 pivots close onto the target tissue to clamp the target tissue between the staple forming lower surface 8130 of the anvil 8100 and the staple cartridge in the end effector, a corresponding portion of the target tissue enters the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-c, which helps minimize translation and rotation of the target tissue as the knife or firing member advances through the anvil 8100. The angled orientation of the tissue stabilization cavities 8182a-c relative to the direction of the knife (along the longitudinal axis LA) may serve to further stabilize the tissue during cutting. Additionally, because a portion of the target tissue may enter the stabilization cavities, the anvil 8100 may assume a closer position relative to the cartridge during firing, thereby reducing the amount of bending stress normally imposed on the anvil. Such an advantage may also result in lower closure and firing forces being required during the closure and firing process.

[0178] FIG. 60 illustrates another form of anvil 8200 similar to the anvil 8000 described above, except for the differences discussed herein. The anvil 8200 includes an anvil body 8210 defining a staple forming lower surface, generally referred to as 8230, with an elongated slot 8226 extending therethrough. The staple forming lower surface 8230 includes a planar surface portion 8240, which may be referred to herein as a "non-forming surface portion," on each side of the slot 8226, each of which has a plurality of staple forming pockets 8060 formed therein. The anvil 8200 is generally complementary to a particular staple supported within the elongated channel. For example, the arrangement of the staple forming pockets 8060 within the anvil 8200 may correspond to the arrangement of the staples and staple cavities within a staple cartridge supported within the elongated channel. The forming rate of the staple forming lower surface may be optimized. By optimizing the forming rate, more staples may be formed and / or formed into a desired configuration. In certain cases, the surface area of ​​the non-forming portion 8240 of the anvil 8200 may be minimized for the staple forming pockets 8060. Additionally or alternatively, the footprint of the staple forming pockets 8060 may be expanded or enlarged to maximize the portion of the staple forming lower surface 8230 designed to capture and form staples.

[0179] In the illustrated configuration, the staple forming pockets 8060 are arranged in three rows 8050a, 8050b, 8050c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8226. The first row 8050a is an inner row, the second row 8050b is a middle row, and the third row 8050c is an outer row. The inner pocket 8060a is positioned in the inner row 8050a, the middle pocket 8060b is positioned in the middle row 8050b, and the outer pocket 8060c is positioned in the outer row 8050c. The pockets 8060a-8060c are arranged in a herringbone configuration along the staple forming lower surface 8230 of the anvil 8200. In at least one case, the pockets 8060a-8060c on the opposite side of the longitudinal slot 8226 may form a mirror image reflection of the pockets 8060a-8060c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8226. In other cases, the arrangement of the pockets 8060 in the staple forming lower surface 8230 may be asymmetric about the longitudinal slot 8226, and in certain cases, the anvil 8200 may not include a longitudinal slot 8226. In various cases, the pockets 8060 may be arranged in fewer than three rows or more than three rows on each side of the slot 8226. The pockets 8060a-8060c may include, for example, the pockets 6060 described herein, or they may include other pockets, including any of the other pocket configurations disclosed herein. Each first pocket 8060a is located along a corresponding first pocket axis FPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Each second pocket 8060b is located along a corresponding second pocket axis SPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the first pocket axis FPA. Each third pocket 8060c is located along a corresponding third pocket axis TPA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and the second pocket axis SPA. The third pocket axis TPA may be parallel to the first pocket axis FPA.

[0180] 60, the anvil 8200 includes a plurality of tissue stabilization features 8280 arranged in two rows 8270a, 8270b on a first side of the longitudinal slot 8226. The first row 8270a is an inner row including a plurality of inner or first tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-8282e each disposed on a corresponding first stabilization axis FSA transverse to the longitudinal axis LA. Thus, the first stabilization cavities 8282a-8282e are parallel to one another, and each first stabilization axis FSA may be parallel to the first pocket axis FPA. The first stabilization cavities 8282a-8282e substantially occupy a respective non-molding surface portion 8240 extending between an adjacent first pocket 8060a and a corresponding second pocket 8060b as shown.

[0181] The second row 8270b is an outer row and includes a plurality of outer or second tissue stabilization cavities 8282f-i each disposed on a corresponding second stabilization axis SSA that is transverse to the longitudinal axis LA and parallel to a third pocket axis TPA of the row of third pockets 8060c. Thus, the second stabilization cavities 8282f-i are parallel to each other and to each third pocket axis TPA. The second stabilization cavities 8282a-e substantially occupy respective non-molding surface portions 8240 that extend between adjacent third pockets 8060c and corresponding second pockets 8060b, as shown.

[0182] In certain examples, each tissue stabilization cavity 8282a-i has a planar bottom 8284 and a vertical sidewall 8286 extending therefrom. The tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i may be as deep as the pockets 8060a-c. The tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-c or shallower than the pockets 8060a-c. In yet other configurations, some of the tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i may be deeper than the pockets 8060a-c and other tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i may be shallower than the pockets 8060a-c within the same anvil 8200. The tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-8282i may have the same perimeter shape as the pockets 8060a-8060c or may have a different perimeter shape than the perimeter shape of the pockets 8060a-8060c. The tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-8282i may be distinguishable from the pockets 8060a-8060c in that the tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-8282i have a closed bottom 8284. In one configuration, the bottom 8284 is planar. However, in other configurations, the closed bottom 8284 may not be planar. The tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i may be designed to receive adjacent tissue therein during the clamping and stapling process, while the closed bottom 8284 and smooth interior wall or walls 8286 prevent tissue from getting caught or trapped, which could result in tissue damage as the tissue is removed from the end effector. Each of the first and second stabilization axes FSA, SSA transverse the longitudinal axis LA. During the stapling process, as the anvil 8200 pivots proximately onto the target tissue to clamp the target tissue between the staple forming lower surface 8230 of the anvil 8200 and the staple cartridge in the end effector, a corresponding portion of the target tissue enters the tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i, which helps minimize translation and rotation of the target tissue as the knife or firing member advances through the anvil 8200.The angled orientation of the tissue stabilization cavities 8282a-i relative to the knife direction (along the longitudinal axis LA) may serve to further stabilize the tissue during cutting. Additionally, because a portion of the target tissue may enter the stabilization cavities, the anvil 8200 may assume a closer position relative to the cartridge during firing, thereby reducing the amount of bending stress normally imposed on the anvil. Such an advantage may also result in lower closure and firing forces being required during the closure and firing process. EXAMPLES

[0183] Example 1 - An anvil for a surgical stapler comprising an anvil body defining a longitudinal axis. The anvil body further comprises a planar non-forming surface. A first row of first staple forming pockets is provided in the planar non-forming surface, with each of the first staple forming pockets in the first row located along a first pocket axis. A second row of second staple forming pockets is provided in the planar non-forming surface adjacent to the first row of first staple forming pockets. Each of the second staple forming pockets in the second row located along a second pocket axis. A third row of third staple forming pockets is provided in the planar non-forming surface adjacent to the second row of second staple forming pockets, with each of the third staple forming pockets in the third row located along a third pocket axis. The second pocket axis is transverse to the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis. A plurality of anvil projections project from the planar non-forming surface, with each anvil projection adjacent at least two of the first staple forming pocket, the second staple forming pocket, and the third staple forming pocket.

[0184] Example 2 - The anvil of example 1, wherein each of the first staple forming pockets includes a first pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface, each of the second staple forming pockets includes a second pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface, and each of the third staple forming pockets includes a third pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface, wherein at least one anvil projection is adjacent to the at least one first pocket opening, the at least one second pocket opening, and the at least one third pocket opening.

[0185] The anvil of example 2, wherein each of the first pocket openings comprises a first proximal end and a first distal end, each of the second pocket openings comprises a second proximal end and a second distal end, and the third pocket opening comprises a third proximal end and a third distal end, wherein at least one anvil protrusion is adjacent to the first distal end of a corresponding first pocket opening, the second proximal end of the corresponding second pocket opening, and the third distal end of the corresponding third pocket opening.

[0186] Example 4 - The anvil of example 2 or 3, wherein at least one anvil projection comprises a first angled surface adjacent a distal end of the first staple forming pocket opening and a second angled surface adjacent a distal end of the second staple forming pocket opening, the anvil projection further comprising a third angled surface adjacent a proximal end of another second staple forming pocket opening and a fourth angled surface adjacent a proximal end of the third staple forming pocket opening.

[0187] Example 5 - An anvil as described in Example 1, 2, 3, or 4, wherein the plurality of anvil protrusions comprises a first row of first anvil protrusions protruding from the planar non-molding surface and a second row of second anvil protrusions protruding from the planar non-molding surface.

[0188] Example 6 - The anvil of Example 5, wherein the plurality of anvil protrusions further comprises a third row of third anvil protrusions protruding from the planar non-molding surface, a fourth row of fourth anvil protrusions protruding from the planar non-molding surface, and a fifth row of fifth anvil protrusions protruding from the planar non-molding surface.

[0189] Example 7 - The anvil of example 6, wherein the second anvil projection and the fourth anvil projection have the same perimeter shape.

[0190] Example 8 - The anvil of example 4, wherein at least one of the first inclined surface, the second inclined surface, the third inclined surface, and the fourth inclined surface extends from the planar non-forming surface at an acute angle.

[0191] Example 9 - The anvil of example 4, wherein each first sloping surface, each second sloping surface, each third sloping surface, and each fourth sloping surface extend at an acute angle from the planar non-forming surface.

[0192] Example 10 - An anvil for a surgical stapler comprising an anvil body including a plurality of staple forming pockets arranged in a pattern of staple forming pockets that repeat along the length of the anvil body, each pocket including a pocket opening at least partially surrounded by a planar non-forming surface. A plurality of tissue stabilization cavities are formed in the planar non-forming surface between at least some of the staple forming pockets. At least some of the tissue stabilization cavities include a closed bottom cavity formed in the planar non-forming surface.

[0193] Example 11 - The anvil of Example 10, wherein the plurality of staple forming pockets comprises at least one first row of first staple forming pockets, at least one second row of second staple forming pockets adjacent to the first row of first staple forming pockets, and at least one third row of third staple forming pockets adjacent to the second row of second staple forming pockets.

[0194] Example 12 - The anvil of example 11, wherein each of the first staple forming pockets in the first row lies along a first pocket axis, each of the second staple forming pockets in the second row lies along a second pocket axis, and each of the third staple forming pockets in the third row lies along a third pocket axis, wherein the second pocket axis intersects the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis.

[0195] Example 13 - An anvil as described in Example 12, wherein each closed bottom cavity is located along a cavity axis that intersects at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis.

[0196] Example 14 - An anvil described in examples 10, 11, 12, or 13, wherein the anvil body defines a longitudinal axis and each of the tissue stabilization cavities is located along a corresponding cavity axis that transverses the longitudinal axis.

[0197] Example 15 - An anvil described in Examples 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14, wherein at least a portion of the multiple tissue stabilization cavities include a length and a width, and the length is greater than the width.

[0198] Example 16 - The anvil of Example 12, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity is located along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis.

[0199] Example 17 - An anvil as described in example 12 or 16, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis.

[0200] Example 18 - The anvil of Example 12, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity is located along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis, and that intersects one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis.

[0201] Example 19 - An anvil for a surgical stapler comprising an anvil body defining a longitudinal axis. The anvil body includes a tissue contacting surface. A plurality of staple forming pockets are formed in the tissue contacting surface. The plurality of staple forming pockets are arranged in a pattern of staple forming pockets that repeats along a length of the anvil body. The pattern comprises a plurality of first staple forming pockets aligned along a first forming pocket row, each of the first staple forming pockets defining a corresponding first pocket axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis. A plurality of second staple forming pockets aligned along a second forming pocket row, each of the second staple forming pockets defining a corresponding second pocket axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis. A plurality of third staple forming pockets aligned along a third forming pocket row, each of the third staple forming pockets defining a third pocket axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis. The anvil further comprises a plurality of first tissue engaging features formed in the tissue contacting surface and positioned between the first row of the first staple forming pockets and the second row of the second staple forming pockets, and a plurality of second tissue engaging features formed in the tissue contacting surface and positioned between the second row of the second staple forming pockets and the third row of the third staple forming pockets.

[0202] Example 20 - The anvil of example 19, wherein at least one tissue engaging feature is positioned between the first staple forming pocket, the second staple forming pocket, and the third staple forming pocket.

[0203] Many of the surgical tool systems described herein are driven by electric motors. The surgical tool systems described herein may be operated in any suitable manner. In various instances, the surgical tool systems described herein may be operated, for example, by a manually operated trigger. In certain examples, the motors disclosed herein may comprise one or more parts of a robotically controlled system. Additionally, any of the end effectors and / or tool assemblies disclosed herein may be utilized with a robotic surgical tool system. For example, U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 118,241, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535) discloses several examples of robotic surgical tool systems in more detail.

[0204] The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in connection with deploying and deforming staples. However, the embodiments described herein are not so limited. Various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fastening elements other than staples, such as, for example, clamps or tacks. Additionally, various embodiments are contemplated that utilize any suitable means for sealing tissue. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Also for example, end effectors according to certain embodiments may apply vibrational energy to seal tissue.

[0205] The entire contents of the following disclosures are incorporated herein by reference. - U.S. Patent No. 5,403,312, entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE," issued April 4, 1995; - U.S. Patent No. 7,000,818, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS," issued on February 21, 2006; - U.S. Patent No. 7,422,139, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK," issued on September 9, 2008; - U.S. Patent No. 7,464,849, entitled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS," issued on December 16, 2008; - U.S. Patent No. 7,670,334, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR", issued on March 2, 2010; - U.S. Patent No. 7,753,245, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS," issued on July 13, 2010; - U.S. Patent No. 8,393,514, entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE," issued on March 12, 2013; - U.S. Patent Application No. 11 / 343,803, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES" (U.S. Patent No. 7,845,537); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 031,573, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES," filed on February 14, 2008; - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 031,873, entitled "END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT", filed February 15, 2008, (U.S. Patent No. 7,980,443); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 235,782, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent No. 8,210,411); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 235,972, entitled "MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT" (U.S. Patent No. 9,050,083); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 249,117, entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM" (U.S. Patent No. 8,608,045); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 647,100, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY," filed December 24, 2009, (U.S. Patent No. 8,220,688); - U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 893,461, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE," filed on September 29, 2012 (U.S. Patent No. 8,733,613); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 036,647, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT," filed on February 28, 2011 (U.S. Patent No. 8,561,870); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 118,241, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" (U.S. Patent No. 9,072,535); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 524,049, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", filed June 15, 2012, (U.S. Patent No. 9,101,358); - U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,025, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM", filed March 13, 2013, (U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481); -U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,067, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM," filed March 13, 2013, (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 0263552); - U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0175955, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM," filed on January 31, 2006; and -U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0264194, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR," filed April 22, 2010, (U.S. Patent No. 8,308,040).

[0206] Although various devices have been described herein with specific embodiments, modifications and variations may be made to those embodiments. Particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic illustrated or described with respect to one embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with the feature, structure, or characteristic of one or more other embodiments, without limitation. Also, although materials are disclosed with respect to particular components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, multiple components may be substituted for a single component, and multiple components may be substituted for a single component, to perform a given function(s), according to various embodiments. It is intended that the foregoing description and the following claims cover all such modifications and variations.

[0207] The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include, but is not limited to, any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular parts of the device, and then reassembly of the device. Specifically, a reconditioning facility and / or surgical team can disassemble the device, clean and / or replace particular parts of the device, and then reassemble the device for subsequent use. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned devices, are all within the scope of the present application.

[0208] The devices disclosed herein may be processed prior to surgery. First, new or used instruments may be obtained and cleaned as necessary. The instruments may then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instruments are placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic bag or a TYVEK bag. The container and instruments may then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, and / or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the instruments and in the container. The sterilized instruments may then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container may keep the instruments sterile until they are opened in the medical facility. The devices may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including, but not limited to, beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide plasma, and / or water vapor.

[0209] While the invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles.

[0210] [Embodiment] (1) An anvil for a surgical stapler, said anvil comprising: an anvil body defining a longitudinal axis, A planar non-molding surface; a first row of first staple forming pockets in the planar non-forming surface, each of the first staple forming pockets in the first row positioned along a first pocket axis; a second row of second staple forming pockets in the planar non-forming surface adjacent to the first row of first staple forming pockets, each of the second staple forming pockets in the second row lying along a second pocket axis; a third row of third staple forming pockets in the planar non-forming surface adjacent to the second row of second staple forming pockets, each of the third staple forming pockets in the third row lying along a third pocket axis, the second pocket axis intersecting the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis; a plurality of anvil projections projecting from the planar non-forming surface, each of the anvil projections adjacent at least two of the first staple forming pocket, the second staple forming pocket, and the third staple forming pocket; An anvil body comprising: 1. An anvil for a surgical stapler comprising: (2) each of the first staple forming pockets includes a first pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface; each of the second staple forming pockets includes a second pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface; each of the third staple forming pockets includes a third pocket opening in the planar non-forming surface; at least one of the anvil protrusions is adjacent to at least one of the first pocket openings, at least one of the second pocket openings, and at least one of the third pocket openings; 2. The anvil of embodiment 1. (3) each of the first pocket openings has a first proximal end and a first distal end; each of the second staple forming pocket openings includes a second proximal end and a second distal end; each of the third staple forming pocket openings includes a third proximal end and a third distal end; at least one of the anvil projections is adjacent to the first distal end of a corresponding first pocket opening, the second proximal end of a corresponding second pocket opening, and the third distal end of a corresponding third pocket opening; 3. The anvil of embodiment 2. (4) The at least one anvil protrusion a first angled surface adjacent the first distal end of the first pocket opening; a second angled surface adjacent the second distal end of the second pocket opening; and a third angled surface adjacent the second proximal end of another of the second pocket openings; and a fourth angled surface adjacent the third proximal end of the third pocket opening; and 4. The anvil of embodiment 3, comprising: (5) The plurality of anvil protrusions are a first row of first anvil projections projecting from the planar non-molding surface; a second row of second anvil projections projecting from the planar non-molding surface; and 2. The anvil of embodiment 1, comprising:

[0211] (6) The plurality of anvil protrusions are a third row of third anvil projections projecting from the planar non-molding surface; and a fourth row of fourth anvil projections projecting from the planar non-molding surface; and a fifth row of fifth anvil projections projecting from the planar non-molding surface; 6. The anvil of embodiment 5, further comprising: (7) The anvil of embodiment 6, wherein the second anvil projection and the fourth anvil projection have the same peripheral shape. (8) The anvil of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first inclined surface, the second inclined surface, the third inclined surface, and the fourth inclined surface extends from the planar non-forming surface at an acute angle. (9) The anvil of claim 4, wherein each of the first inclined surfaces, each of the second inclined surfaces, each of the third inclined surfaces, and each of the fourth inclined surfaces extend from the planar non-forming surface at an acute angle. (10) An anvil for a surgical stapler, comprising: an anvil body including a plurality of staple forming pockets arranged in a repeating staple forming pocket pattern along a length of the anvil body, each staple forming pocket including a pocket opening at least partially surrounded by a planar non-forming surface; a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities formed in the planar non-forming surface between at least some of the staple forming pockets, at least some of the tissue stabilization cavities comprising a closed bottom cavity formed in the planar non-forming surface; Equipped with an anvil.

[0212] (11) The plurality of staple forming pockets at least one first row of first staple forming pockets; at least one second row of second staple forming pockets adjacent to the first row of first staple forming pockets; at least one third row of third staple forming pockets adjacent to the second row of second staple forming pockets; 11. The anvil of embodiment 10, comprising: (12) each of the first staple forming pockets in the first row is located along a first pocket axis; each of the second staple forming pockets in the second row is located along a second pocket axis; each of the third staple forming pockets in the third row is located along a third pocket axis; the second pocket axis intersects the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis; 12. The anvil of embodiment 11. (13) The anvil of embodiment 12, wherein each of the closed bottom cavities lies along a cavity axis that transverses at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis. (14) The anvil body defines a longitudinal axis; each of the tissue stabilization cavities is located along a corresponding cavity axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis; 13. The anvil of embodiment 12. (15) The anvil of embodiment 10, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of tissue stabilization cavities have a length and a width, the length being greater than the width.

[0213] (16) The anvil of embodiment 12, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis. (17) The anvil of embodiment 16, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis. (18) The anvil of embodiment 12, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis and that is transverse to one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis. (19) An anvil for a surgical stapler, said anvil comprising: an anvil body defining a longitudinal axis; a tissue contacting surface on the anvil body; and a plurality of staple forming pockets formed in the tissue contacting surface, the plurality of staple forming pockets being arranged in a repeating staple forming pocket pattern along a length of the anvil body, the pattern comprising: a plurality of first staple forming pockets aligned along a first forming pocket row, each of said first staple forming pockets defining a corresponding first pocket axis transverse to said longitudinal axis; a plurality of second staple forming pockets aligned along a second forming pocket row, each of the second staple forming pockets defining a corresponding second pocket axis transverse to the longitudinal axis; and a plurality of third staple forming pockets aligned along a third forming pocket row, each of said third staple forming pockets defining a third pocket axis transverse to said longitudinal axis; a plurality of staple forming pockets comprising: The anvil comprises: a plurality of first tissue engaging features formed in the tissue contacting surface and positioned between the first row of first staple forming pockets and the second row of second staple forming pockets; a plurality of second tissue engaging features formed in the tissue contacting surface and positioned between the second row of the second staple forming pockets and the third row of the third staple forming pockets; The anvil further comprises: (20) The anvil of embodiment 19, wherein at least one of the tissue engaging features is positioned between the first staple forming pocket, the second staple forming pocket, and the third staple forming pocket.

Claims

1. 1. An anvil for a surgical stapler, comprising: an anvil body including a plurality of staple forming pockets arranged in a repeating staple forming pocket pattern along a length of the anvil body, each staple forming pocket including a pocket opening at least partially surrounded by a planar non-forming surface; a plurality of tissue stabilization cavities formed in the planar non-forming surface between at least some of the staple forming pockets, at least some of the tissue stabilization cavities comprising a closed bottom cavity formed in the planar non-forming surface; It is equipped with An anvil, each of the tissue stabilization cavities having a planar base and a vertical sidewall extending therefrom.

2. The plurality of staple forming pockets include: at least one first row of first staple forming pockets; at least one second row of second staple forming pockets adjacent to the first row of first staple forming pockets; at least one third row of third staple forming pockets adjacent to the second row of second staple forming pockets; The anvil of claim 1 , comprising:

3. each of the first staple forming pockets in the first row is located along a first pocket axis; each of the second staple forming pockets in the second row is located along a second pocket axis; each of the third staple forming pockets in the third row is located along a third pocket axis; the second pocket axis intersects the first pocket axis and the third pocket axis; 3. The anvil of claim 2.

4. 4. The anvil of claim 3, wherein each said closed bottom cavity lies along a cavity axis that transverses at least one of said first pocket axis, said second pocket axis, and said third pocket axis.

5. the anvil body defining a longitudinal axis; each of the tissue stabilization cavities is located along a corresponding cavity axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis; 4. The anvil of claim 3.

6. The anvil of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the plurality of tissue stabilization cavities have a length and a width, the length being greater than the width.

7. 4. The anvil of claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis.

8. The anvil of claim 7 , wherein at least a portion of said closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to said first pocket axis and said third pocket axis.

9. 4. The anvil of claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the closed bottom cavity lies along a corresponding cavity axis that is parallel to at least one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis and that is transverse to one of the first pocket axis, the second pocket axis, and the third pocket axis.

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