Apparatus and method for applying a buttress to an end effector of a surgical stapler via a driven member - Patents.com

Abstract

The device is configured to apply an auxiliary material to at least one of a first stapling surface and a second stapling surface of a surgical stapler. The device includes a contact structure defining a longitudinal axis and an expansion mechanism. The contact structure includes a first contact member configured to support a first portion of the auxiliary material and a second contact member movably coupled to the first contact member and configured to support a second portion of the auxiliary material. The first and second contact members are configured to move in opposite directions away from each other to apply the first portion of the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface and the second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface. The expansion mechanism is selectively operable to transition the contact structure from an unexpanded state to an expanded state.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] In some surgical situations, endoscopic surgical instruments may be preferred over traditional open surgical devices to utilize smaller incisions in the patient, which may reduce postoperative recovery time and complications. Some endoscopic surgical instruments are suitable for placing a distal end effector at a desired surgical site through a cannula of a trocar. These distal end effectors may engage tissue in various ways to achieve diagnostic or therapeutic effects (e.g., endocutter, grasper, cutter, stapler, clip applier, access device, drug / gene therapy delivery device, and energy delivery device using ultrasound, RF, laser, etc.). An endoscopic surgical instrument may include a shaft between the end effector and the handle portion that is manipulated by the clinician. Such a shaft may allow insertion to a desired depth and rotation about the longitudinal axis of the shaft, thereby facilitating positioning of the end effector within the patient. Positioning of the end effector can be further facilitated by the inclusion of one or more articulation joints or features that allow the end effector to be selectively articulated or otherwise deflected relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft.

[0002] Examples of endoscopic surgical instruments include surgical staplers. Some such staplers are operable to clamp the tissue layers, cut the clamped tissue layers, and drive staples through the tissue layers to substantially seal the cut tissue layers together near the cut ends of the tissue layers. Merely exemplary surgical staplers are disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,380,696, issued June 3, 2008, entitled "Articulating Surgical Stapling Instrument Incorporating a Two-Piece E-Beam Firing Mechanism," U.S. Patent No. 8,408,439, issued April 2, 2013, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument with An Articulatable End Effector," and U.S. Patent No. 8,453,914, issued June 4, 2013, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Cutting Instrument with Electric Actuator Directional Control Assembly." The disclosures of each of the above-cited U.S. patents and published U.S. patent applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0003] Surgical staplers may also be used in open procedures and / or other non-endoscopic procedures. By way of example only, in thoracic surgical procedures that do not use a trocar as a stapler conduit, a surgical stapler may be inserted between a patient's ribs through a thoracotomy to access one or more organs. For example, blood vessels leading to an organ may be cut and closed by the stapler prior to removing the organ from the chest cavity. Of course, surgical staplers may be used in a variety of other settings and procedures.

[0004] While many different types of surgical stapling instruments and related components have been made and used, it is believed that no one prior to the present inventors has made or used the invention as set forth in the appended claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary surgical stapling instrument. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] 2 is a perspective view of the end effector of the instrument of FIG. 1 in an open state. [Figure 4A] 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 with the firing beam in a proximal position. [Figure 4B] 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 with the firing beam in a distal position. [Diagram 5] 5 is a cross-sectional end view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 4 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 after being positioned in tissue and actuated once within the tissue. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary pair of buttress assemblies, each of which may be applied to the jaws of the end effector of FIG. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional end view of a portion of the end effector of FIG. 3 with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the upper and lower jaws of the end effector, showing the end effector jaws with tissue positioned between the upper and lower jaws. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional end view of the end effector and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A, with the end effector in a closed position on tissue; [Figure 9C] 9B is a cross-sectional view of the formed staple and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A after being secured to tissue by the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 10] 9B is a perspective view of the formed staple and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A after being secured to tissue by the end effector of FIG. 3 . [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary buttress applier cartridge that may be used to hold and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. [Figure 13A] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 and the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 11 showing the end effector and buttress applier cartridge aligned with one another; [Figure 13B] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 and the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 11 , with the end effector closed on a platform of the buttress applier cartridge; [Figure 14A] 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a first exemplary alternative applicator device, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, and the end effector of FIG. 3, showing the applicator device in an unexpanded state. [Figure 14B] 14B is a side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 14A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator device in an expanded state for securing the buttress assembly to the end effector. [Figure 15A] 11 is a side cross-sectional view of a second exemplary alternative applicator device, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, and the end effector of FIG. 3, showing the applicator device in an unexpanded state. [Figure 15B] 15B is a side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 15A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator device in an expanded state for securing the buttress assembly to the end effector. [Figure 16A]FIG. 10 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a third exemplary alternative applicator device, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, showing the applicator device in a non-expanded state. [Figure 16B] 16B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 16A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, in a first condition with an air pump coupled to the applicator device; [Figure 16C] 16A , the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 , and the end effector of FIG. 3 , with an air pump coupled to the applicator device and in a second condition whereby the applicator device is expanded to secure the buttress assembly to the end effector. [Figure 17] 9 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary alternative applicator device, showing the applicator device in an unexpanded state with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, the end effector of FIG. 3 positioned for application of the buttress assembly, and a fluid injector coupled to the applicator device. [Figure 18A] FIG. 10 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a fifth exemplary alternative applicator device, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, showing the applicator device in a non-expanded state. [Figure 18B] 18B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 18A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the compressed air injector coupled to the applicator device, the compressed air in a first state, and the applicator device in an unexpanded state. [Figure 18C] 18A , the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 , and the end effector of FIG. 3 , with a compressed air injector coupled to the applicator device and the compressed air in a second state thereby expanding the applicator device to secure the buttress assembly to the end effector. [Figure 19A]10 is a side view of a sixth alternative exemplary applicator device, with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 19B] 19B is a side view of the applicator device of FIG. 19A, with the applicator device in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to the end effector. [Figure 20A] 10 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a seventh exemplary alternative applicator device, with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to an applicator pad of the applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 20B] 20B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 20A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator pad in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 20C] 20B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 20A, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator pad in a second, expanded state, thereby securing the buttress assembly to the end effector. [Figure 21A] 13 is a perspective view of an eighth exemplary alternative applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. FIG. [Figure 21B] 21B is a perspective view of the applicator device of FIG. 21A, with the applicator device in a second, expanded state. [Figure 22A] 22A is a partial cross-sectional side view of the applicator device of FIG. 21A taken along line 22A-22A of FIG. 21A with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 22B] 22B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 21A taken along line 22B-22B of FIG. 21B, showing the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device and the applicator device in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to an end effector. [Figure 23A]13 is a partial side cross-sectional view of a ninth exemplary alternative applicator device, with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. FIG. [Figure 23B] 23B is a partial side cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 23A with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to an end effector. [Figure 24A] 13 is a perspective view of a tenth alternative exemplary applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. FIG. [Figure 24B] 24B is a perspective view of the applicator device of FIG. 24A, the applicator device being in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to the end effector. [Figure 25A] 25A is a top cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 24A taken along line 25A-25A of FIG. 24A, with the applicator device in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 25B] 25A is a top, cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 24A taken along line 25A-25A of FIG. 24A, with the applicator device in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to the end effector. [Figure 26A] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an eleventh exemplary alternative applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 26B] 26B is a perspective view of the applicator device of FIG. 26A, the applicator device being in a second, expanded state whereby the buttress assembly is secured to the end effector. [Figure 27A] 27A is a partial cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 26A taken along line 27A-27A of FIG. 26A, with the applicator device in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 27B]27B is a partial cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 26A taken along line 27B-27B of FIG. 26B, with the applicator device in a second condition, expanded, whereby the buttress assembly is secured to the end effector. [Figure 28A] 19 is a side cross-sectional view of a twelfth exemplary alternative applicator device, with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device, the applicator device being in a first, unexpanded state. [Figure 28B] 28A and the end effector of FIG. 3 , with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the applicator device in a second, expanded state, thereby securing the buttress assembly to the end effector.

[0006] The drawings are not intended to be limiting in any manner, and it is contemplated that various embodiments of the invention may be embodied in other various ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. It will be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0007] The following description of a specific embodiment of the present technology should not be used to limit its scope. Other embodiments, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is illustrative and is one of the best modes contemplated for carrying out the present technology. As will be understood, the technology described herein is capable of other different and obvious embodiments, all without departing from the technology. Thus, the drawings and description should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not restrictive.

[0008] It will be further understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described below should not be considered in isolation from one another. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0009] For clarity of this disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a human or robotic surgical instrument operator. The term "proximal" refers to a location of an element closer to a human or robotic surgical instrument operator and further away from a surgical end effector of the surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to a location of an element closer to a surgical end effector of the surgical instrument and further away from a human or robotic surgical instrument operator. In addition, the terms "upper", "lower", "lateral", "transverse", "bottom", and "top" are relative terms to provide further clarity to the description of the figures provided below. The terms "upper", "lower", "lateral", "transverse", "bottom", and "top" are therefore not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein.

[0010] I. Exemplary Surgical Stapler 1-7 illustrate an exemplary surgical stapling and severing instrument (10) sized for insertion into a surgical site on a patient through a trocar cannula or an incision (e.g., a thoracotomy) to perform a surgical procedure. The instrument (10) in this example includes a handle portion (20) connected to a shaft (22) that terminates distally in an articulation joint (11), which is further coupled to an end effector (12). Once the articulation joint (11) and end effector (12) have been inserted through the cannula passage of the trocar, the articulation joint (11) may be remotely articulated by an articulation control (13), as depicted in phantom in FIG. 1, to deflect the end effector (12) to a desired angle (α) from the longitudinal axis (LA) of the shaft (22). The end effector (12) of this embodiment includes a lower jaw (16) which contains a staple cartridge (37) and an upper jaw in the form of a pivotable anvil (18).

[0011] The handle portion (20) includes a pistol grip (24) and a closure trigger (26). The closure trigger (26) is pivotable toward the pistol grip (24) to clamp or close the anvil (18) toward the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). Such closure of the anvil (18) is effected via a closure tube (32) and a closure ring (33), both of which translate longitudinally relative to the handle portion (20) in response to pivoting of the closure trigger (26) relative to the pistol grip (24). The closure tube (32) extends along the length of the shaft (22), and the closure ring (33) is positioned distal to the articulation joint (11). The articulation joint (11) is operable to transmit longitudinal movement from the closure tube (32) to the closure ring (33).

[0012] As shown in FIGURE 2, handle portion (20) also includes a firing trigger (28). An elongate member (not shown) extends longitudinally through shaft (22) and transfers longitudinal firing motion from handle portion (20) to firing beam (14) in response to actuation of firing trigger (28). As described in further detail below, this distal translation of firing beam (14) effects the stapling and severing of tissue clamped within end effector (12).

[0013] As best seen in FIGS. 3-6, the end effector (12) employs a firing beam (14) that includes a transversely oriented upper pin (38), a firing beam cap (44), a transversely oriented middle pin (46), and a distally presented cutting edge (48). The upper pin (38) is positioned within a longitudinal anvil slot (42) of the anvil (18) and is translatable within the longitudinal anvil slot (42). The firing beam cap (44) slidably engages an underside of the lower jaw (16) by having the firing beam (14) extend through a lower jaw slot (45) (shown in FIG. 4B) formed through the lower jaw (16). The middle pin (46) slidably engages an upper side of the lower jaw (16) that cooperates with the firing beam cap (44).

[0014] FIG 3 illustrates the firing beam (14) of this example positioned proximally and the anvil (18) that can be pivoted to an open configuration to removably mount an unused staple cartridge (37) within a channel in the lower jaw (16). As best seen in FIGS. 5-6, the staple cartridge (37) of this example includes a cartridge body (70) that presents an upper deck (72) and is coupled to a lower cartridge tray (74). As best seen in FIG 3, a vertical slot (49) extends longitudinally through a portion of the staple cartridge body (70). Also, as best seen in FIG 3, three rows of staple openings (51) are formed through the upper deck (72) on each side of the vertical slot (49). As shown in FIGS. 4A-6, a wedge-shaped sled (41) and a plurality of staple drivers (43) are captured between a cartridge body (70) and a tray (74), with the wedge-shaped sled (41) located proximally relative to the staple drivers (43). The wedge-shaped sled (41) is movable longitudinally within the staple cartridge (37), while the staple drivers (43) are movable vertically within the staple cartridge (37). Staples (47) are also positioned within the cartridge body (70) above their corresponding staple drivers (43). Each staple (47) is driven vertically within the cartridge body (70) by the staple drivers (43), which drive the staples (47) out through associated staple openings (51). As best seen in Figures 4A-4B and 6, wedge sled (41) presents an inclined cam surface that urges staple driver (43) upward as wedge sled (41) is driven distally through staple cartridge (37).

[0015] As shown in Figures 4A-4B, when the end effector (12) is closed by distally advancing the closure tube (32) and closure ring (33), the firing beam (14) is advanced distally and engages the anvil (18) by the upper pin (38) entering the longitudinal anvil slot (42). A pusher block (80) (shown in Figure 5) is located at the distal end of the firing beam (14) and, when the firing trigger (28) is actuated, pushes the wedge-shaped sled (41) distally as the firing beam (14) is advanced distally through the staple cartridge (37). During such firing, the cutting edge (48) of the firing beam (14) enters the vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37) and severs the tissue clamped between the staple cartridge (37) and the anvil (18). As shown in FIGS. 4A-4B, the middle pin (46) and pusher block (80) together actuate the staple cartridge (37) by entering a vertical slot (49) in the staple cartridge (37), driving the wedge-shaped sled (41) into upward camming contact with the staple driver (43), which drives the staples (47) out through the staple openings (51) and into forming contact with the staple forming pockets (53) (shown in FIG. 3) on the inner surface of the anvil (18). FIG. 4B shows the firing beam (14) fully translated distally after the cutting and stapling of the tissue is complete. The staple forming pockets (53) are shown in FIG. 3 but are intentionally omitted from the views of FIGS. 4A-4B. The anvil (18) is intentionally omitted from the view of FIG. 5.

[0016] FIG. 7 shows the end effector (12) actuated through one stroke through tissue (90). The cutting edge (48) (obscured in FIG. 7) cuts the tissue (90) while the staple driver (43) drives three alternating rows of staples (47) through the tissue (90) on either side of the cut line formed by the cutting edge (48). After the first stroke is completed, the end effector (12) is withdrawn from the patient, the spent staple cartridge (37) is replaced with a new staple cartridge (37), and the end effector (12) is then reinserted into the patient to reach the stapling site for further cutting and stapling. This process can be repeated until the desired amount and pattern of firing strokes across the tissue (90) is completed.

[0017] The instrument (10) may be further configured and operative in accordance with any of the teachings of the following references, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference, including, but not limited to, U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Instrument," issued July 3, 2012; U.S. Pat. No. 9,186,142, entitled "Surgical Instrument End Effector Articulation Drive with Pinion and Opposing Racks," issued November 17, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 9,517,065, entitled "Integrated Tissue Positioning and Jaw Alignment Features for Surgical Stapler," issued December 13, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,746, entitled "Distal Tip Features for End Effector of Surgical Instrument," issued April 18, 2017; U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,746, entitled "Lockout Feature for Movable End Effector of Surgical Instrument," issued August 1, 2017; and U.S. Pat. No. 9,717,497 entitled "Cutting Member of Surgical Instrument," U.S. Patent No. 9,795,379 entitled "Surgical Instrument with Multi-Diameter Shaft," issued on October 24, 2017, U.S. Patent No. 9,808,248 entitled "Installation Features for Surgical Instrument End Effector Cartridge," issued on November 7, 2017, U.S. Patent No. 9,839,421 entitled "Jaw Closure Feature for End Effector of Surgical Instrument," issued on December 12, 2017, and / or U.S. Patent No. 10,092,292 entitled "Staple Forming Features for Surgical Stapling Instrument," issued on October 9, 2018.

[0018] II. Exemplary Buttress Assemblies and Buttress Applier Cartridges In some cases, it may be desirable to provide the end effector (12) of the surgical instrument (10) with a supplemental material, such as a buttress, to reinforce the mechanical fastening of tissue provided by the staples (47). Such a buttress may prevent the applied staples (47) from backing out of the tissue, reducing the risk of tissue tearing that would otherwise occur at or near the application site of the staples (47). In addition to or instead of providing structural support and integrity to the line of staples (47), the buttress may provide a variety of other types of effects, such as filling voids or gaps, delivering therapeutic agents, and / or another effect. In some cases, the buttress may be provided on the top deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37). As mentioned above, the deck (72) houses the staples (47) that are driven by the staple driver (43). In some other cases, the buttress may be provided on the surface of the anvil (18) that faces the staple cartridge (37). It should also be appreciated that a first buttress may be provided on the deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37), while a second buttress is provided on the anvil (18) of the same end effector (12).

[0019] Examples of the various forms the buttress may take are described in more detail below. Various methods by which the buttress may be secured to the staple cartridge (37) or anvil (18) are also described in detail below. The exemplary buttress assemblies, exemplary materials and techniques for applying the buttress assemblies, and exemplary buttress applier cartridges may be constructed in accordance with at least a portion of the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 10,166,023, issued Jan. 1, 2019, and entitled "Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler End Effector," and / or U.S. Pat. No. 10,349,939, issued July 16, 2019, and entitled "Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler," the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] A. Exemplary Configurations of Buttress Assemblies FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary pair of buttress assemblies (110, 112) (each individually referred to as a "buttress"). The buttress assembly (110) of this example includes a buttress body (114) and an upper adhesive layer (116). Similarly, the buttress assembly (112) includes a buttress body (118) and a lower adhesive layer (120). In this example, each buttress body (114, 118) includes a strong, yet flexible material configured to structurally support a line of staples (47). By way of example only, each buttress body (114, 118) may include a mesh of Polyglactin 910 material by Ethicon, Inc. of Somerville, New Jersey. Alternatively, any other suitable material or combination of materials may be used in addition to or in place of the Polyglactin 910 material to form each buttress body (114, 118).

[0021] Each buttress body (114, 118) may include a material including a hemostatic agent, such as fibrin, for example, to assist in clotting blood and reducing bleeding at the cut and / or stapled surgical site along the tissues (T1, T2). As another merely illustrative example, each buttress body (114, 118) may include other additives or may include a hemostatic agent, such as thrombin, such that each buttress body (114, 118) may assist in clotting blood and reducing the amount of bleeding at the surgical site. Other additives or reagents that may be incorporated into each buttress body (114, 118) may further include, but are not limited to, medicinal fluids or matrix components.

[0022] In this embodiment, an adhesive layer (116) is provided on buttress body (114) for adhering buttress body (114) to an underside (124) of anvil (18). Similarly, an adhesive layer (120) is provided on buttress body (118) for adhering buttress body (118) to the top deck (72) of staple cartridge (37). Such an adhesive material may provide for proper positioning of buttress bodies (114, 118) prior to and during actuation of the end effector (12), and then allow buttress bodies (114, 118) to be separated from the end effector (12) after the end effector (12) has been actuated without causing damage to buttress bodies (114, 118) substantially sufficient to impair the subsequent proper functioning of buttress bodies (114, 118).

[0023] B. Exemplary stapling of tissue with a buttress assembly 9A-9C illustrate an exemplary sequence in which an end effector (12) loaded with buttress assemblies (110, 112) is actuated to drive staples (47) through two opposing tissue layers (T1, T2) such that the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are secured to the same tissue layers (T1, T2) by the staples (47). Specifically, FIG. 9A illustrates the tissue layers (T1, T2) positioned between an anvil (18) and a staple cartridge (37), with the anvil (18) in an open position. The buttress assembly (110) is adhered to the underside (124) of the anvil (18) via an adhesive layer (116), and the buttress assembly (112) is adhered to the top deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37) via an adhesive layer (120). The tissue layers (T1, T2) are thus sandwiched between the buttress assemblies (110, 112). The closure trigger (26) is then pivoted towards the pistol grip (24) to drive the closure tube (32) and closure ring (33) distally, which drives the anvil (18) to the closed position, as shown in FIG. 9B. At this stage, the tissue layers (T1, T2) are compressed between the anvil (18) and the staple cartridge (37) and the buttress assemblies (110, 112) engage opposing surfaces of the tissue layers (T1, T2). The end effector (12) is then actuated as described above to drive the staples (47) through the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and tissue (T1, T2). As shown in Figure 13C, the crowns (122) of the actuated staples (47) capture and hold the buttress assembly (112) against the layer of tissue (T2), and the deformed legs (126) of the staples (47) capture and hold the buttress assembly (110) against the layer of tissue (T1).

[0024] A series of staples (47) similarly capture and hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) against the tissue layers (T1, T2), thereby securing the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the tissue (T1, T2), as shown in Figure 10. After the staples (47) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) have been deployed, when the end effector (12) is pulled away from the tissue (2), the buttress assemblies (110, 112) disengage from the end effector, such that the buttress assemblies (110, 112) remain secured to the tissue (T1, T2) by the staples (47). The buttresses (110, 112) thus provide structural reinforcement to the line of staples (47) formed in the tissue (T1, T2). As can also be seen in FIG. 10, the cutting edge (48) of the firing beam (14), shown distally, also cuts through the midline of the buttress tissue assemblies (110, 112), separating each buttress assembly (110, 112) into a corresponding pair of portions such that each portion remains fixed in a corresponding cut region of the tissue (T1, T2).

[0025] C. Exemplary Buttress Applier Cartridge with Active Retainer Arms Because the end effector (12) of a surgical instrument (10) may be actuated multiple times during a single surgical procedure, it may be desirable to allow an operator to repeatedly and easily load a buttress assembly (110, 112) onto the end effector jaws (16, 18) during that single surgical procedure. FIGS. 11-13B illustrate an exemplary buttress applier cartridge (210) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply ancillary material, such as a buttress assembly (110, 112), to the end effector (12). As best shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the cartridge (210) in this example includes an open end (212) and a closed end (214). As will be described in further detail below, the open end (212) is configured to receive the end effector (12). The cartridge (210) further includes a first housing (216a) and a second housing (216b), each generally defining a general "U" shape and presenting an open end (212). A platform (218) and a sled retainer (220) are sandwiched between the first housing (216a) and the second housing (216b).

[0026] The platform (218) of this embodiment is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on one side of the platform (218) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the other side of the platform (218). The platform (218) is exposed in a recess formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of the first housing (216a) and the second housing (216b). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37), respectively, the platform (218) could just as easily support wider buttress assemblies (110, 112), each of which spans across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37), as a unit. More specifically, the outer edge of the platform (218) includes retention features (230) in the form of ridges that further engage the first housing (216a) and the second housing (216b) to prevent the platform (218) from sliding relative to the first housing (216a) and the second housing (216b).

[0027] The first and second housings (216a, 216b) include integral gripping mechanisms (222) and indicator plates (224) positioned to correspond with windows (226) formed in the first and second housings (216a, 216b) such that the indicator plates (224) are visible through the windows (226) at different times. The arms (228) in this example are configured to selectively secure the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the platform (218). In this example, the arms (228) are resilient and thus configured to resiliently support the buttress assemblies (110, 112), thereby sandwiching the buttress assemblies (110, 112) against the platform (218). The buttress applier cartridge (210) includes a pair of tapered cam surfaces (232) and respective pairs of housing engagement features (234) positioned to engage corresponding surfaces of the first and second housings (216a, 216b). The first and second housings (216a, 216b) include proximal and distal guide features (236, 238) configured to assist in providing proper alignment of the end effector (40) and the cartridge (210).

[0028] FIGURE 13A shows the cartridge (210) in a configuration where the retainer arms (228) are positioned to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) against the platform (218), and FIGURE 13B shows the cartridge (210) in a configuration where the retainer arms (228) are positioned to release the buttress assemblies (110, 112) from the platform (218). Although FIGS. 13A-13B only show the buttress assembly (110) on the platform (218), the buttress assembly (112) is retained on and released from the platform (218) in an identical manner. To load the end effector (12) with the cartridge (210), the operator will first position the cartridge (210) and end effector (12) such that the end effector is aligned with the open end (212) of the cartridge (210) as shown in FIGURE 13A. The operator then advances the end effector (12) distally and / or retracts the cartridge (210) proximally to position the platform (218) and buttress assembly (110, 112) between the anvil (18) and the staple cartridge (37), as shown in FIG 13B. The closure trigger (26) of the instrument (10) is then squeezed by the operator to close the end effector jaws (16, 18) on the platform (218), thereby adhesively attaching the buttress assembly (110, 112) to the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) while simultaneously depressing the cam surface (232). Depression of cam surface (232) actuates retainer arms (228) laterally outwardly, thereby releasing buttress assemblies (110, 112) from platform (218) such that end effector jaws (16, 18) can be disengaged from platform (218) while buttress assemblies (110, 112) remain adhered to anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37).

[0029] III. Exemplary Alternative Applicator Devices and Related Methods for Applying Buttresses to Surgical Stapler End Effectors In some cases, it may be desirable to provide an applicator device that is configured to apply a staple reinforcing auxiliary element to one or both jaws of a surgical stapler end effector while the jaws are still open or without closing the jaws by actuation of the stapler's end effector closure system, such as by actuation of a closure trigger (26) of the surgical stapler (10). The exemplary applicator devices described below provide such functionality, and thus each applicator device is configured to be manipulated relative to the end effector to apply an auxiliary element to one or both jaws without requiring actuated closure of the jaws as shown in Figures 13A-13B above.

[0030] It will be appreciated that any of the exemplary applicator devices described below may be configured to apply a buttress, such as the buttress assemblies (110, 112) discussed above, or an auxiliary element in the form of a tissue thickness compensator, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012 / 0080336, published April 5, 2012, now abandoned, entitled "Staple Cartridge Comprising Staples Positioned Within A Compressible Portion Thereof," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In addition, application of the staple reinforcement element to the jaws of the end effector may be accomplished using an adhesive mechanism as described above and / or using a mechanical interlocking mechanism, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,665,646, issued February 23, 2010, entitled "Interlocking Buttress Material Retention System," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Furthermore, any of the exemplary applicator devices described below may be suitably constructed for single use or multiple uses.

[0031] A. First Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 14A-14B illustrate a first exemplary alternative applicator device (300) configured to apply a supplemental material (e.g., buttress assemblies (110, 112) or tissue thickness compensator) to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (310) adjusts the thickness of the anvil (18) or lower jaw (16) to enable the applicator device (310) to suitably apply the supplemental material to both the anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16) separately. As shown in FIG. 14A, the applicator device (300) includes an expansion mechanism (301) and a contact structure shown as an expandable wedge (314). The expansion mechanism (301) of this embodiment includes handles (302, 304), a compression spring (306), and applicator arms (308, 310).

[0032] The wedge (314) of this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on one side of the wedge (314) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the opposite side of the wedge (314). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) (see FIG. 3), respectively, the wedge (314) could just as easily support wider versions of the buttress assemblies (110, 112), each of which spans as a unit across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37). The applicator arms (308, 310) are separated by a pivot member (shown as a pin (312)) that is configured to rotatably couple to the applicator arms (308, 310). The applicator device (300) may thus resemble a reverse pliers, i.e., the compression spring (306) is configured to provide a force biasing the handles (302, 304) away from one another, thereby biasing the distal portions (309, 311) of the applicator arms (308, 310) towards one another via pivoting about an axis (320) provided by a pin (312). The wedge (314) is configured to contact the applicator arms (308, 310) via contact members (322, 324), although the contact members (322, 324) are merely optional and may be omitted in some variations. Additionally, the wedge (314) includes a first applicator surface (316) and a second applicator surface (318) coupled together at a resilient pivot point (326).

[0033] First and second applicator surfaces (316, 318) are each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). More specifically, the first applicator surface (316) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and the second applicator surface (318) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). Specifically, buttress assembly (110) is positioned on first applicator surface (316) with upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from first applicator surface (316), and buttress assembly (112) is positioned on second applicator surface (318) with lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from second applicator surface (318), thereby allowing first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of buttress assemblies (110, 112) by applicator device (300). In some variations, the first and second applicator surfaces (316, 318) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (316, 318) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (316, 318) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator surfaces (316, 318).

[0034] 14B illustrates the stapling surface of the pivotable anvil (18) and ancillary material secured onto the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). As discussed above, the ancillary material may include buttress assemblies (110, 112), tissue thickness compensators, or other suitable materials. The stapling surface is intended to include the upper deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37) including the staple openings (50), or the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18) including the staple forming pockets (53), as shown in FIG. 3. It is also envisioned that the anvil (18) may be disposed on the lower jaw and the staple cartridge (37) may be disposed on the upper jaw.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 14B, when the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are positioned on the applicator surfaces (316, 318), the handles (302, 304) of the applicator device (300) are pressed together, thereby compressing the spring (306) and causing the applicator arms (308, 310) to pivot about axis (320). As the handles (302, 304) move toward one another, the distal portions (309, 311) of the applicator arms (308, 310) move away from one another, contacting the inwardly facing surfaces (328, 330) of the applicator arms (308, 310) and spreading (i.e., separating) the applicator arms (308, 310) in opposite directions via the resilient pivot points (326) until the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. More specifically, the wedge (314) defines a distal opening angle that increases as the applicator arms (308, 310) of the wedge (314) spread apart, thus advancing each applicator arm (308, 310) toward the corresponding jaw of the end effector (12).

[0036] The handles (302, 304) are then released by the user, thereby reversing the pivotal motion of the applicator arms (308, 310) and disengaging them from the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). The applicator device (300) may then be removed.

[0037] In some variations, breakaway features may be desired to ensure that the applicator device (300) does not apply undue pressure to the end effector (12) while applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112). For example, one or more breakaway features, such as notches (332, 334), may be included on the applicator arms (308, 310). In the illustrated embodiment, the notches (332, 334) are included between the handles (302, 304) and the pin (312), and the arms (308, 310) are configured to break at the notches (332, 334), respectively, if the arms (408, 410) are subjected to a force that exceeds a predetermined limit while applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112).

[0038] B. Second Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 15A-15B show a second exemplary alternative applicator device (400) configured to apply supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (410) adjusts the thickness of the anvil (18) or lower jaw (16) to enable the applicator device (410) to suitably apply the supplemental material to the anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). As a result, application of a buttress assembly (112) to the lower jaw (16), including a staple cartridge (37), using the applicator device (410) may be similar to application of the buttress assembly (300) described above. As shown in FIG. 15A, the applicator device (400) includes an expansion mechanism (401) and a contact structure shown as an expandable wedge (414). The expansion mechanism (401) of this embodiment includes handles (402, 404), a compression spring (406), and applicator arms (408, 410).

[0039] The applicator arms (408, 410) are coupled together at first and second pivot members (shown as pins (411, 412)). A compression spring (406) is configured to provide a force biasing the handles (402, 404) away from one another, thereby biasing the flexible central portions (409, 411) of the applicator arms (408, 410) towards one another via pivotal rotation about pivot axes (420, 421) provided by the pins (411, 412). The wedge (414) in this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on one side of the wedge (414) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the opposite side of the wedge (414). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) (see FIG. 3), respectively, the wedge (414) could just as easily support a wider version of the buttress assembly (110, 112), each of which spans as a unit across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37). The wedge (414) is configured to contact the applicator arms (408, 410) along the flexible central portions (409, 411) of the applicator arms (408, 410). Additionally, the wedge (414) includes a first applicator surface (416) and a second applicator surface (418) coupled together at a resilient pivot point (426). In some variations, the flexible central portion (409, 411) may be fixed to the applicator arms (408, 410).

[0040] First and second applicator surfaces (416, 418) are each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). More specifically, the first applicator surface (416) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and the second applicator surface (418) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). Specifically, buttress assembly (110) is positioned on first applicator surface (416) with upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from first applicator surface (416), and buttress assembly (112) is positioned on second applicator surface (418) with lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from second applicator surface (418), thereby allowing first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of buttress assemblies (110, 112) with applicator device (400). In some variations, the first and second applicator surfaces (416, 418) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (416, 418) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (416, 418) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator surfaces (416, 418).

[0041] 15B illustrates the stapling surface of the pivotable anvil (18) and the supplemental material secured onto the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). When the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are positioned on the applicator surfaces (416, 418), the handles (402, 404) of the applicator device (400) are pressed together, thereby compressing the spring (406) and causing the applicator arms (408, 410) to pivot about axes (420, 421). As the handles (402, 404) move toward one another, the flexible central portions (409, 411) of the applicator arms (408, 410) flex away from one another, becoming more convex and contacting the inwardly facing surfaces (428, 430) of the applicator arms (408, 410), spreading the applicator arms (408, 410) in opposite directions via the resilient pivot points (426) until the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. The handles (402, 404) are then released by the user, thereby reversing the pivoting motion of the applicator arms (408, 410) and disengaging them from the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (400).

[0042] In some variations, breakaway features may be desired to ensure that the applicator device (400) does not apply undue pressure to the end effector (12) while applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112). For example, one or more breakaway features, such as notches (432, 434), may be included on the applicator arms (408, 410). In the illustrated embodiment, the notches (432, 434) are included between the handles (402, 404) and the pin (412), and the arms (408, 410) are configured to break at the notches (432, 434), respectively, if the arms (408, 410) are subjected to a force that exceeds a certain limit while applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112).

[0043] C. Third Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 16A-16C illustrate a third exemplary alternative applicator device (500) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). As best seen in FIG. 16A, the applicator device (500) of this embodiment may be similar to the buttress applier cartridge (210) (see FIG. 11), except for differences that will be described below. In particular, the applicator device (500) comprises a body (502) defining an open end (504) and a closed end (506). As will be described in further detail below, the open end (504) is configured to receive the end effector (12). The applicator device (500) further includes a first housing (508a) and a second housing (508b), each generally defining a "U" shape and presenting an open end (504). A contact structure in the form of an expandable wedge (510) is sandwiched between the first housing (508a) and the second housing (508b). The wedge (510) in this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on one side (511a) of the wedge (510) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the other side (511b) of the wedge (510). The wedge (510) is exposed in a recess formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of the first and second housings (508a, 508b). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) (see FIG. 3), respectively, wedge (510) could just as easily support wider versions of buttress assemblies (110, 112), respectively, that span as a unit across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37).

[0044] As shown in FIG. 16B, the applicator device (500) further includes a fluid connector (512) and a fluid conduit (514) fluidly coupled to the wedge (510). The fluid connector (512) is positioned at the closed end (506) of the cartridge body (502) and is configured to couple with an applicator expansion mechanism in the form of a pump (518). In some variations, the pump (518) may be an inflatable flexible balloon filled with air, while in other variations, the pump (518) may be a similar pump device pre-filled with a liquid, such as water or saline, and actuable by a user to expel the liquid therefrom. The fluid connector (512) may be any suitable fluid-tight connector known in the art, such as a luer or snap-fit ​​connector, configured to couple with a complementary connector (520) of the pump (518). When coupled together, the fluid connectors (512, 520) define a lumen configured to communicate a fluid (e.g., air, water, saline, etc.) from the pump (518) through the fluid conduit (514) toward the open end (504) of the cartridge body (502). As described in more detail below, the fluid conduit (514) is configured to couple with the wedge (510) such that upon receiving fluid from the fluid conduit (514), the wedge (510) transitions from a first state (see FIG. 16B) to a second state (see FIG. 16C) such that opposing sides (511 a, 511 b) of the wedge (510) expand in opposing outward directions, away from the longitudinal axis (534), respectively, thereby applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). In some variations, the fluid connector (520) or fluid conduit (514) includes a check valve (528) to ensure that the fluid pressure remains constant within the fluid conduit (514) until the user disengages the pump (518) from the cartridge body (502).

[0045] The wedge (510) includes first and second contact members in the form of first and second applicator surfaces (522, 524), respectively, configured to apply a supplemental material to an end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). Specifically, a first side (511a) of the wedge (510) includes a first applicator surface (522) and a second side (511b) of the wedge (510) includes a second applicator surface (524). The first and second applicator surfaces (522, 524) meet at a point (526) of the wedge (510) such that the surfaces (522, 524) are movably coupled to one another. The wedge (510) may be constructed from any material or materials that provide each applicator surface (522, 524) with sufficient rigidity to receive and apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112), while also providing sufficient flexibility to repeatedly expand and contract as pressure is applied from the pump (518) to cause each applicator surface (522, 524) to expand outwardly to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112). In some embodiments, the wedge (510) may be constructed from an elastomeric material (e.g., silicone) having a hollow interior that is configured to be biased into a folded or flattened configuration and to expand as it fills with fluid, as shown in Figures 16A and 16B.

[0046] As described above, first applicator surface (522) is configured to receive buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto pivotable anvil (18), and second applicator surface (524) is configured to receive buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto lower jaw (16). The buttress assembly (110) is positioned on the first applicator surface (522) with the upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from the first applicator surface (522), and the buttress assembly (112) is positioned on the second applicator surface (524) with the lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from the second applicator surface (524), thereby allowing the first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) with the applicator device (500). In some variations, the first and second applicator surfaces (522, 524) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) may include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (522, 524) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (522, 524) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator surfaces (522, 524).

[0047] 16C illustrates the stapling surface of the pivotable anvil (18) and the supplemental material secured onto the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). Once the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are positioned on the applicator surfaces (522, 524), the end effector (12) is in position for application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112), and the pump (518) is coupled with the cartridge body (502), the user may then squeeze the pump (518) one or more times to expel fluid (e.g., air, water, saline, etc.) from the pump (518) through the fluid conduits (514). The fluid communicating through the fluid conduits (514) is pressurized to expand the wedges (510), which in turn expand and spread the applicator surfaces (522, 524) in opposite outward directions. As the applicator surfaces (522, 524) expand in opposite outward directions, the buttress assembly (110, 112) may be applied to the end effector (12) without the need for any actuation of the pivotable anvil (18) or the lower jaw (16).

[0048] The fluid pressure applied to the wedge (510) in the fluid conduit (414) may then be released by the user by disengaging the pump (518), thereby releasing the fluid from the fluid conduit (514). Releasing the fluid from the fluid conduit (414) may serve to reverse the expansion of the applicator surfaces (522, 524), disengaging from the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (500).

[0049] D. Fourth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 17 illustrates a fourth exemplary alternative applicator device (600) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). Applicator device (600) is configured to have the same structure and function as applicator device (500), except for the differences described below. As an alternative to pump (518) of applicator device (500), applicator device (600) is configured to accept a fluid (602) (e.g., air, water, saline, etc.) that is injected using an applicator extension mechanism in the form of a syringe (604) or other similar fluid injection device known and used in the art. To operate applicator device (600) to apply buttresses (110, 112), i.e., to expand expandable wedge (614) and extend applicator surfaces (622, 624) outward, a user may couple syringe (604) to fluid connector (606) of cartridge body (608) and actuate plunger (610) in a distal longitudinal direction along axis (612). To retract applicator surfaces (622, 624) inwardly, a user may retract plunger (610) proximally along longitudinal axis (612), thereby retracting fluid (602) from wedge (614) and back into syringe (604) via fluid conduit (620).

[0050] E. Fifth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 18A-18C illustrate a fifth exemplary alternative applicator device (700) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). Applicator device (700) is configured to have the same structure and function as applicator devices (500, 600), except for the differences described below. As an alternative to pump (518) of applicator device (500) and syringe (604) of applicator device (600), applicator device (700) is configured to receive compressed gas (702) (e.g., air, carbon dioxide, etc.) that is injected using an applicator extension mechanism in the form of a canister (704) or other similar injection device known and used in the art. To operate the applicator device (700) to apply the buttresses (110, 112), i.e., to expand the wedge (714) and extend the applicator surfaces (722, 724) of the wedge (714) outwardly, a user may couple the canister (704) to the fluid conduit (706) of the cartridge body (708) via the fluid connector (710). Thus, the canister (704) may include a connector (shown as threads (712)) configured to couple to the fluid connector (710) and a thin seal (716) configured to be pierced by a sharp tip (730) formed by a proximal end (728) of the fluid conduit (706), thereby releasing the compressed gas (702) from the canister outlet (718).

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the user couples the canister (704) to the cartridge body (708) by threading the connector (712) of the canister (704) into the fluid connector (710), thereby translating the canister (704) in a distal longitudinal direction along the axis (720). Once the canister (704) is properly coupled to the cartridge body (708) and the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the applicator surfaces (722, 724) of the wedge (714), the end effector (12) may be positioned for application, as shown in FIG. 18B. At this stage, the seal (718) is positioned adjacent the sharp tip (730) of the rigid piercing mechanism (740), such that the proximal end of the fluid conduit (706) is disposed within the hollow portion (744) defined in the proximal end of the rigid piercing mechanism (740). A seal (742) prevents fluid leakage where the fluid conduit (706) is inserted into the hollow portion (744) of the rigid puncture mechanism (740). To expel the compressed gas (702) from the canister (704), the anvil portions (90a, 90b) (see FIGS. 3, 6, 18B, and 18C) are configured to press against the distal end (746) of the rigid puncture mechanism (740) near the distal tip (726) of the wedge (714), thereby translating the rigid puncture mechanism (740) proximally (i.e., toward the canister (704). As the rigid puncture mechanism (740) translates proximally, the sharp tip (730) pierces the seal (718), allowing the compressed gas (702) to flow distally through the lumen defined by the fluid conduit (706).

[0052] In an alternative variation, the wedge (714) may be slidably fixed along the longitudinal axis (720) relative to the cartridge body (708), and the sharp tip (730) may be integrally formed as a proximal portion of the fluid conduit (706). In this manner, the seal (716) may be pierced by the fluid conduit (706), and thus the buttress assembly (110, 112) may be applied by a user simply threading the canister (704) into the fluid connector (710).

[0053] The pressure applied to the rod (732) in the fluid conduit (706) may then be released by the user by disengaging the canister (704), thereby releasing the gas from the fluid conduit (706). Releasing the gas from the fluid conduit (706) may cause the applicator arms (722, 724) to act to reverse the spreading or pivoting action, disengaging from the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (700).

[0054] F. Sixth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 19A-19B illustrate a sixth exemplary alternative applicator device (800) configured to apply a supplemental material to a jaw (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (800) includes a contact structure having first and second applicator arms (802, 804) configured to couple to an applicator extension mechanism in the form of a rotational actuator (806). The applicator arms (802, 804) of this example are configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on the first applicator arm (802) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the second applicator arm (804) (the first and second applicator arms (802, 804) collectively define a wedge). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) (see FIG. 3), respectively, the applicator arms (802, 804) could just as easily support wider versions of buttress assemblies (110, 112), respectively, that span as a unit across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37). The applicator arms (802, 804) are connected together using a pivot member (shown as pin (808)).

[0055] First and second applicator arms (802, 804) are each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). More specifically, the first applicator arm (802) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and the second applicator arm (804) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). Specifically, the buttress assembly (110) is positioned on the first applicator arm (802) with the upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from the first applicator arm (802), and the buttress assembly (112) is positioned on the second applicator arm (804) with the lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from the second applicator arm (804), thereby allowing the first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) by the applicator device (800). In some variations, the first and second applicator arms (802, 804) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator arms (802, 804) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator arms (802, 804) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator arms (802, 804).

[0056] As shown in the transition from FIG. 19A to FIG. 19B , the applicator arms (802, 804) may be extended in opposite outward directions by a user to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12). To extend the applicator arms (802, 804) outward, a user grasps and rotates a rotational actuator (806) in a first direction. The rotational actuator (806) is coupled to a threaded rod (810), which is rotatably coupled to each applicator arm (802, 804) via a hinged connector (shown as hinge pin (812)) and translatable legs (814, 816). A first translatable leg (814) is rotatably coupled to an underside (818) of the first applicator arm (802) via a hinged connector (shown as hinge pin (822)). A second translatable leg (816) is rotatably coupled to an underside (820) of the second applicator arm (804) via a hinged connector (shown as hinge pin (824)). As the rotational actuator (806) rotates in a first direction, the hinged connector (812) translates distally, away from the rotational actuator (806), towards the distal end (826) of the threaded rod (810). Thus, as shown in FIG. 19B, the translatable legs (814, 816) urge the applicator arms (802, 804) toward one another in opposite directions to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12). The rotational actuator (806) may then be rotated in an opposite, second direction, which may cause the applicator arms (802, 804) to act to reverse the spreading or pivoting motion, disengaging from the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (800).

[0057] G. Seventh Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 20A-20C illustrate a seventh exemplary alternative applicator device (900) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). Applicator device (900) is configured to have the same structure and function as applicator devices (500, 600, 700), except for the differences described below. As an alternative to pump (518) of applicator device (900), syringe (604) of applicator device (500), and canister (704) of applicator device (600), applicator device (700) includes a contact structure in the form of a selectively expandable applicator (902) and an applicator extension mechanism in the form of a removable clip (904). The applicator device (900), as shown in FIGS. 20A and 20B, includes a cartridge body (916) defining a closed end (918) and an open end (920), and a pair of retention members (906, 908) operable to compress upper and lower surfaces (910, 912) of the expandable applicator (902). The expandable applicator (902) may be constructed from a compressible foam material biased to an expanded state. Additionally, the expandable applicator (902) may be formed into a V-shaped wedge that provides a complementary shape to the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16), the V-shaped wedge operable to rigidly attach the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16) when the expandable applicator (902) is expanded between the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16).

[0058] Upper and lower applicator surfaces (910, 912) are each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). More specifically, the upper applicator surface (910) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and the lower applicator surface (912) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). Specifically, buttress assembly (110) is positioned on upper applicator surface (910) with upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from upper applicator surface (910), and buttress assembly (112) is positioned on lower applicator surface (912) with lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from lower applicator surface (912), thereby allowing first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of buttress assemblies (110, 112) with applicator device (900). In some variations, the upper and lower applicator surfaces (910, 912) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (910, 912) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator surfaces (910, 912) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator surfaces (910, 912).

[0059] FIG 20A shows the expandable applicator (902) in an initial compressed state with the buttress assemblies (110, 112) mounted thereon. Additionally, the retention members (906, 908) of the clip (904) ensure that the expandable applicator (902) remains in a compressed state until the end effector (12) is positioned for application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112). FIG 20B shows the end effector (12) translated into position for applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112). Once the end effector (12) is translated into position, the tip (922) of the pivotable anvil (18) is configured to contact a portion (914) of the clip (904), thereby translating the clip (904) toward the closed end (918) of the cartridge body (916). As the clip (904) translates, such as by sliding along the surface of the cartridge body (916), the retaining members (906, 908) are released from their positions holding the expandable applicator (902) in a compressed state. Figure 20C shows the clip (904) removed and the expandable applicator (902) in its expanded state, whereby the applicator surfaces (910, 912) expand in opposite directions relative to one another to apply the buttress assembly (110, 112) to the end effector (12). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (900).

[0060] H. Eighth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 21A-22B illustrate an eighth exemplary alternative applicator device (1000) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). As best seen in FIG. 21A, the applicator device (1000) of this embodiment may be similar to the buttress applier cartridges (210, 500, 600, 700, 900), except for the differences described below. Specifically, the applicator device (10000) comprises a cartridge body (1002) defining an open end (1004) and a closed end (1006). As described in further detail below, the open end (1004) is configured to receive the end effector (12). The applicator device (1000) further includes a first housing (1008a) and a second housing (1008b), each generally defining a "U" shape and presenting an open end (1004). A contact structure in the form of an expandable wedge (1010) is sandwiched between the first housing (1008a) and the second housing (1008b). The wedge (1010) in this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (110) on the first applicator arm (1020) and another pair of buttress assemblies (112) on the second applicator arm (1022). The wedge (1010) is exposed in a recess formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of the first and second housings (1008a, 1008b). Although each buttress assembly (110, 112) is provided as a separate corresponding pair of parts to avoid spanning across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) (see FIG. 3), respectively, the wedge (1010) could just as easily support wider buttress assemblies (110, 112), respectively, that span as a unit across the slots (42, 49) of the anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37).

[0061] The applicator device (1000) further includes an expansion mechanism collectively defined by the actuator member (1012), the applicator actuation mechanism (1018), the rod (1016), the guide rod (1034), and the applicator arms (1020, 1022), which is selectively operable to transition the wedge (1010) between an unextended state and an extended state, as described in more detail below. The actuator member (1012) is translatable longitudinally parallel to the guide rod (1034). The actuator member (1012) includes one or more user grips (1014a, 1014b) internally coupled together through the cartridge body (1002) and the wedge (1010) via the rod (1016). The actuator member (1012) may be further configured to slide distally and proximally relative to the closed end (1006) of the cartridge body (1002). As described in more detail below, the actuator member (1012), or more specifically the rod (1016), is configured to couple to the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) (see FIGS. 22A and 22B) such that when the actuator member (1012) slides distally relative to the closed end (1006) of the cartridge body (1002), the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) slides distally on the guide rod (1034) to transition the applicator arms (1020, 1022) from a first, unextended position (see FIG. 22A) to a second, extended position (see FIG. 22B). As will be described in more detail below, the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) is further coupled to first and second applicator arms (1020, 1022) of the wedge (1010).

[0062] The wedge (1010) includes first and second applicator arms (1020, 1022), each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). The first and second applicator arms (1020, 1022) are coupled together at a resilient pivot point (1026) of the wedge (1010). The wedge (1010) may be constructed from any material or materials that provide each applicator arm (1020, 1022) with sufficient rigidity to receive and apply a buttress assembly (110, 112), while also providing sufficient flexibility to repeatedly flex at the pivot point (1026) as pressure is applied from the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) to cause each applicator arm (1020, 1022) to expand outwardly to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112). In some embodiments, the wedge (1010) may be constructed from a resilient metal or metal alloy that is biased into a "closed" configuration, as shown in Figures 21A and 22A.

[0063] The first applicator arm (1020) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and the second applicator arm (1022) is configured to receive the buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). The buttress assembly (110) is positioned on the first applicator arm (1020) with the upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from the first applicator arm (1020), and the buttress assembly (112) is positioned on the second applicator arm (1022) with the lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from the second applicator arm (1022), thereby allowing the first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) by the applicator device (1000). In some variations, the first and second applicator arms (1022, 1024) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) include corresponding mechanisms, such as clamp arms and clamp arm fingers (not shown), to hold the buttress assemblies (110, 112) and ensure proper and secure alignment and positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator arms (1020, 1022) before the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are applied to the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively. However, a variety of suitable methods and structures for securely and removably positioning the buttress assemblies (110, 112) on the applicator arms (1020, 1022) are also contemplated. In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply one or both of the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the applicator arms (1020, 1022).

[0064] 21B and 22B show the stapling surface of the pivotable anvil (18) and the supplemental material secured onto the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). Once the buttress assemblies (110, 112) are positioned on the applicator arms (1020, 1022) and the end effector (12) is in position for application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112), the user may then grasp the grips (1014a, 1014b) and slide the actuator member (1012) distally relative to the closed end (1006) of the cartridge body (1002) to move the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) of the wedge (1010) to a distal position. A distal end (1040) of the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) abuts a compression spring (1032) disposed on a distal end (1042) of a guide rod (1034). The spring (1032) is configured to exert a proximal pressure on the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) to counteract the distal pressure provided by the applicator actuation mechanism (1018). Thus, when pressure is removed from the applicator actuation mechanism (1018), such as when a user slides the actuator member (1012) proximally relative to the closed end (1006), the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) translates proximally back to its initial position, as shown in Figures 21A and 22A.

[0065] As shown in Figures 22A and 22B, the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) is movably coupled to one end (1046) of one or more actuator arms (1044), the opposite end (1048) of which is coupled to the wedge (1010). Specifically, each actuator arm (1044) is rotatably coupled within or under either the first applicator arm (1020) or the second applicator arm (1022). Thus, the applicator actuation mechanism (1018), actuator arms (1044), and wedge (1010) are configured to operate in a manner similar to an umbrella. That is, as the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) translates distally on the guide rod (1034), the actuator arm (1044) urges the first and second applicator arms (1020, 1022) apart in opposite outward directions via a hinged connection at a first end (1046) of the actuator arm (1044) to the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) and a hinged connection at a second end (1048) of the actuator arm (1044) to an internal connection with the wedge (1010). The distal translation of the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) further serves to compress the spring (1032). As the applicator arms (1020, 1022) splay in opposite outward directions, the buttress assemblies (110, 112) may be applied to the end effector (12) without the need for any actuation of the pivotable anvil (18) or the lower jaw (16).

[0066] User pressure applied to the applicator actuation mechanism (1018) via the actuator member (1012) may then be released by the user by sliding the actuator member (1012) proximally, thereby disengaging the buttress assemblies (110, 112) as they remain attached to the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16). The end effector (12) may then be removed from the applicator device (1000).

[0067] I. Ninth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 23A-23B illustrate a ninth exemplary alternative applicator device (1100) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (1100) is configured to have the same structure and function as the applicator devices (500, 600, 700, 1000), except for the differences described below. Similarly, the application device (1100) includes an applicator actuation mechanism (1102) configured to translate longitudinally relative to the cartridge body (1104) to spread the applicator arms (1106, 1108) away from each other and apply one or more buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12). The applicator device (1100) of this example includes an extension mechanism in the form of a user-activatable motor (1110). To operate the motor (1110) to apply the buttresses (110, 112), i.e., to extend the applicator arms (1106, 1108) of the wedge (1112) outward, a user may actuate an actuator, such as a push button (1114), located on the cartridge body (1104). To retract the applicator arms (1106, 1108), the user may again actuate the same actuator (1114). Optionally, an additional actuator, such as a push button (1116), can be included on the cartridge body (1104) to operate the motor (1110) in reverse.

[0068] J. Tenth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 24A-25B illustrate a tenth exemplary alternative applicator device (1200) configured to apply a supplemental material to a jaw (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (1200) is configured to have the same structure and function as the applicator devices (500, 600, 700, 1000, 1100), except for the differences described below. Similarly, the application device (1200) includes an applicator actuation mechanism (1202) coupled to a platform (1220) configured to translate longitudinally relative to a cartridge body (1204) to spread applicator arms (1206, 1208) and apply one or more buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12).

[0069] The applicator device (1200) of this example includes an expansion mechanism in the form of a user-actuable actuation assembly (1210). To translate the applicator actuation mechanism (1210) distally to apply the buttresses (110, 112), i.e., to extend outwardly the applicator arms (1206, 1208) (i.e., contact structures) of the wedge (1212), a user may manipulate actuators, such as compression buttons (1214a, 1214b), located on the cartridge body (1204). As shown in Figures 25A and 25B, each compression button (1214a, 1214b) includes a retaining distal flange (1216a, 1216b) in contact with a tab (1218a, 1218b) of the platform (1220). Additionally, the proximal end 1222 of the platform 1220 contacts the compression spring 1224, which biases the platform 1220 in a distal direction (i.e., toward the open end 1226 of the cartridge body). Thus, as the proximal ends 1228a, 1228b of the actuators 1214a, 1214b are squeezed together, the distal ends 1230a, 1230b of the actuators 1214a, 1214b translate apart, releasing the tabs 1218a, 1218b from the retention flanges 1216a, 1216b. The spring 1224 then biases the platform 1220 and the applicator actuation mechanism 1202 in a distal direction. Because the applicator actuation mechanism (1202) and wedge (1212) include the same features as the applicator devices (1000, 1100) described herein, the applicator arms (1206, 1208) spread apart in opposite outward directions to apply the buttress assembly (110, 112) to the end effector (12) without the need for any actuation of the pivotable anvil (18) or lower jaw (16).To retract the applicator arms (1206, 1208), the user may squeeze the distal ends (1230a, 1230b) of the actuators (1214a, 1214b) to return the actuators (1214a, 1214b) and the applicator arms (1206, 1208) to their initial positions as shown in Figures 24A and 25A.

[0070] K. Eleventh Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 26A-27B illustrate an eleventh exemplary alternative applicator device (1300) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (1300) is configured to have the same structure and function as the applicator devices (500, 600, 700, 1000, 1100, 1200), except for the differences described below. Similarly, the application device (1300) includes an applicator actuation mechanism (1302) selectively actuable by a user to spread the applicator arms (1306, 1308) of a wedge (1312) (i.e., the contact structure of this variation) and apply one or more buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12). The applicator device (1300) further includes an expansion mechanism collectively defined by the actuator member (1310), the applicator actuation mechanism (1302), and the applicator arms (1306, 1308), which is selectively operable to transition the wedge (1312) between an unexpanded state and an expanded state, as described in more detail below. The actuation assembly (1310) is configured to be selectively rotated by a user about the longitudinal axis (1304), and is further configured to couple to the applicator actuation mechanism (1302), thereby rotating the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) about the longitudinal axis (1304). The applicator actuation mechanism (1302) is formed in an elongated shape, for example, an elliptical shape as shown in FIGS. 27A-B. The applicator actuation mechanism (1302) is disposed between the applicator arms (1306, 1308) and is configured to contact the applicator arms (1306, 1308) and exert a radially outward force relative to the longitudinal axis (1304) upon rotation of the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) about the longitudinal axis (1304). Although an elliptical shape is illustrated, it is envisioned that a variety of alternative elongated applicator actuation mechanism (1302) shapes may be utilized.

[0071] As shown in Figures 26A and 27A, the elongated sides (1316a, 1316b) of the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) are rotated to an initial position (i.e., the position prior to extending the applicator arms (1306, 1308)) and in contact with the applicator arms (1306, 1308). A user may grasp the actuation assembly (1310) located on the cartridge body (1314) and rotate it 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis (1304), thereby extending the applicator arms (1306, 1308) to apply the buttresses (110, 112), as shown in Figures 26B and 27B. As the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) rotates, opposing ends (1318a, 1318b) of the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) rotate into contact with the applicator arms (1306, 1308) of the wedge (1312), pushing the applicator arms (1306, 1308) apart. In some variations, the elongated sides (1316a, 1316b) of the applicator actuation mechanism (1302) may shorten or lengthen, depending on the separation distance of the pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12), thereby decreasing or increasing, respectively, the separation distance of the applicator arms (1306, 1308) in the extended state. To retract the applicator arms (1306, 1308), the user may rotate the actuation assembly (1310) 90 degrees in either the same direction as before or the opposite direction to return the applicator arms (1306, 1308) to their initial positions as shown in Figures 26A and 27A.

[0072] L. Twelfth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 28A-B illustrate a twelfth exemplary alternative applicator device (1400) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (1400) is configured to have the same structure and function as the applicator devices (500, 600, 700, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300), except for the differences described below. The applicator device (1400) of this example includes a torsion spring (1402), a dashpot (1406), a latch (1406), and applicator arms (1408, 1410). The applicator arms (1408, 1410) may be formed into a V-shaped wedge that provides a complementary shape to the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16), which is operable to rigidly attach the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16) when the applicator arms (1408, 1410) expand apart while positioned between the pivotable anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16). The applicator arms (1408, 1410) are pivotally coupled together at their proximal ends (1420, 1422), and the torsion spring (1402) is disposed adjacent the pivotable connection at the proximal ends (1420, 1422).

[0073] Applicator arms (1408, 1410) cooperate to define contact structures, each configured to apply a supplemental material to the end effector (12) of the stapling instrument (10). More specifically, upper applicator arm (1408) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (110) thereon for application onto the pivotable anvil (18), and lower applicator arm (1410) is configured to receive a buttress assembly (112) thereon for application onto the lower jaw (16). Specifically, buttress assembly (110) is positioned on upper applicator arm (1408) with upper adhesive layer (116) facing outward, away from upper applicator arm (1408), and buttress assembly (112) is positioned on lower applicator arm (1410) with lower adhesive layer (120) facing outward, away from lower applicator surface (912), thereby allowing first and second adhesive layers (116, 120) to adhere to pivotable anvil (18) and lower jaw (16), respectively, upon application of buttress assemblies (110, 112) with applicator device (900).

[0074] 28A shows the applicator arms (1408, 1410) in an unexpanded, pre-application state with buttress assemblies (110, 112) mounted thereon. The applicator arms (1408, 1410) are biased to expand in opposite directions by a torsion spring (1402). The torsion spring (1402) is disposed at the base of the "V" defined by the applicator arms (1408, 1410) and includes spring arms (1412, 1414) that extend across inner surfaces (1416, 1418) of the applicator arms (1408, 1410), respectively. The applicator arms (1408, 1410) are further coupled together with a latch (1406). Latch (1406) is configured to pivotally couple to applicator arm (1410) at one end and includes a hook (1420) at an opposite end. In some embodiments, latch (1406) may instead be configured to pivotally couple to applicator arm (1408) at one end. Hook (1420) of latch (1406) is further configured to releasably couple to the other of first applicator arm (1408) or second applicator arm (1410) to prevent applicator arms (1408, 1410) from spreading apart due to the spreading force provided by torsion spring (1402). The torsion spring (1402) and the latch (1406) cooperate to define an expansion mechanism configured to be operated by a user to transition the applicator device (1410) from an unextended state (see FIG. 28A) to an extended state (see FIG. 28B). In addition, a dashpot (1404), or alternatively another similar energy attenuation device, is coupled to inner surfaces (1416, 1418) of the applicator arms (1408, 1410).

[0075] As shown in FIG. 28B, a user may pivot the hook (1420) of the latch (1406) away from the applicator arms (1408), thereby allowing the torsion spring (1402) to urge the applicator arms (1408, 1410) in the opposite direction. As described above, spreading the applicator arms (1408, 1410) in the opposite direction is operable to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12). As the hook (1420) is released and the applicator arms (1408, 1410) spread apart, the dashpot (1404) is configured to dampen the rate of spreading motion of the applicator arms (1408, 1410). Thus, the dashpot (1404) ensures that, when applying the buttress assemblies (110, 112), the applicator arms (1408, 1410) do not spread apart so quickly as to cause damage to the end effector (12), which may then be removed from the applicator device (900).

[0076] IV. Exemplary Combinations The following examples relate to various non-exhaustive methods in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the claims that may be presented at any time in this application or any subsequent application of this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be configured and applied in many other ways. It is also contemplated that certain features referred to in the following examples may be omitted in some variations. Thus, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be considered critical unless later expressly so indicated by the inventors or their successors. If the claims presented in this application or any subsequent application related to this application include additional features other than those referred to below, those additional features should not be considered added for any reason regarding patentability. EXAMPLES

[0077] 1. An apparatus configured to apply an ancillary material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical stapler, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a contact structure defining a longitudinal axis, the contact structure comprising: (i) a first contact member, the first contact member configured to support a first portion of the ancillary material; and (ii) a second contact member movably coupled to the first contact member, the second contact member configured to support a second portion of the ancillary material. and (b) a second contact member configured to move away from one another in opposite directions toward the first and second stapling surfaces, respectively, to provide a contact structure in an expanded state for applying a first portion of the support material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member and applying a second portion of the support material to the second stapling surface with the second contact member; and (b) an expansion mechanism operably coupled to the contact structure, the expansion mechanism being selectively operable to transition the contact structure from a non-expanded state toward the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0078] The device of Example 1, wherein each of the first contact member and the second contact member includes a distal end and a proximal end relative to the longitudinal axis, the proximal end of the first contact member is coupled to the proximal end of the second contact member, and the distal end of the first contact member is configured to be separated from the distal end of the second contact member while the proximal ends remain coupled together to define a distal opening angle in the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0079] The extension mechanism includes: (i) a first handle and a first arm coupled to the first handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member; and (ii) a second handle and a second arm coupled to the second handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the second contact member, the first handle and the second handle being configured to be grasped by a user's hand. 3. The device of any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising: (a) a second handle and a second arm configured to pivot relative to one another to thereby pivot the first arm relative to the second arm via the pivot member; and (iii) a pivot member disposed between the first arm and the second arm, the first handle and the second handle configured to pivot relative to one another to thereby pivot the first arm relative to the second arm via the pivot member, the first arm and the second arm configured to bias the first contact member and the second contact member in opposite directions toward the first and second stapling surfaces, respectively. EXAMPLES

[0080] The device of example 3, wherein at least one of the first arm or the second arm includes a breakaway feature, the breakaway feature configured to break at least one of the first arm and the second arm when a force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to at least one of the first arm and the second arm. EXAMPLES

[0081] The device of any of Examples 1 to 4, further comprising a fluid input port in fluid communication with the contact structure, the fluid input port configured to accept a fluid communicated through the fluid input port, the fluid operable to actuate the contact structure between a non-expanded state and an expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0082] The device of Example 5, wherein the fluid is comprised of a liquid or a gas, and the expansion mechanism comprises a flexible fluid pump configured to couple to the fluid input port, the flexible fluid pump being selectively operable to communicate the liquid or the gas through the fluid input port. EXAMPLES

[0083] The device of Example 5, wherein the fluid is composed of a liquid, and the expansion mechanism comprises a syringe configured to connect to the fluid input port, the syringe being selectively operable to communicate the liquid through the fluid input port. EXAMPLES

[0084] The device of example 5, wherein the fluid is composed of compressed air, and the expansion mechanism comprises a compressed air canister configured to couple to the fluid input port, the compressed air canister being selectively pierceable to communicate the compressed air through the fluid input port. EXAMPLES

[0085] The device of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a rotational actuator, the rotational actuator being rotatable about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. EXAMPLES

[0086] A device as described in any of Examples 1 to 9, wherein the contact structure comprises a compressible foam and the expansion mechanism comprises a retainer clip configured to engage the first and second contact members, the retainer clip configured to translate longitudinally to disengage the first and second contact members, thereby enabling expansion of the compressible foam and resulting expansion of the contact structure toward an expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0087] A device described in any of Examples 1 to 10, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to slide longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0088] The device of any one of Examples 1 to 11, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a motor, the motor configured to actuate the contact structure, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0089] A device described in any of Examples 1 to 12, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a first user-actuated feature and a second user-actuated feature, each of which is configured to receive a force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0090] A device described in any of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. EXAMPLES

[0091] The device of any of Examples 1-14, wherein the expansion mechanism includes: (i) a latch configured to pivotally couple to one of the first contact member or the second contact member, the latch configured to engage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member to prevent the first contact member from separating in a direction away from the second contact member, and the latch configured to pivot to disengage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member, thereby allowing the first contact member and the second contact member to separate; and (ii) a torsion spring disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member and the second contact member, the torsion spring configured to bias the first contact member in a direction away from the second contact member. EXAMPLES

[0092] A surgical instrument assembly comprising: (a) a surgical stapler end effector including a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets; and (b) an apparatus as described in any of Examples 1-15, wherein the apparatus is operable to apply an auxiliary material to the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface. EXAMPLES

[0093] 1. An apparatus configured to apply an ancillary material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical instrument, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising a wedge defining a longitudinal axis, the wedge comprising: (a) a first contacting member, the first contacting member configured to contact a first portion of the ancillary material; and (b) a first contacting member configured to contact the first contacting member. and a second contact member configured to move to contact a second portion of the auxiliary material, wherein each of the first and second contact members includes a distal end and a proximal end relative to a longitudinal axis, the distal end of the first contact member being pivotally connected to the distal end of the second contact member, and the proximal end of the first contact member is configured to selectively pivot away from the proximal end of the second contact member to apply the first and second portions of the auxiliary material to the first and second stapling surfaces of the surgical instrument. EXAMPLES

[0094] The device of Example 17, wherein at least one of the first contact member or the second contact member is configured to at least one of fix a first portion of the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface or fix a second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface. EXAMPLES

[0095] 11. A method of applying an auxiliary material to a surgical stapler end effector using an apparatus having a first contact member and a second contact member movably coupled together, the surgical stapler end effector including a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets, the method comprising: (a) positioning the apparatus between the first and second stapling surfaces while the apparatus is in an unextended state and the end effector is in an open state, such that the first contact member faces the first stapling surface and the second contact member faces the second stapling surface; (b) transitioning the apparatus from the unextended state to an extended state to move the first contact member away from the second contact member in a direction toward the first stapling surface; and (c) securing a first portion of the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member while the apparatus is in the extended state. EXAMPLES

[0096] The method of example 19, further comprising securing a second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface with a second contact member while the device is in the expanded state.

[0097] V.Other It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the above teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should not be considered in isolation with respect to each other. Various suitable ways in which the teachings herein can be combined will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the teachings herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims.

[0098] Additionally, any one or more of the teachings herein may be combined with any one or more of the teachings disclosed in the following patent applications: U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP1], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Fixed Base" (filed on the same day as this application); and U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP3], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttresses Separately to Jaws of End Effector of Surgical Stapler" (filed on the same day as this application). No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP4], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Close End Effector of Surgical Stapler onto Buttress" (filed on even date herewith), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP5], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Detect Full Seating of Buttress Applicator in End Effector of Surgical Stapler" (filed on even date herewith), U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP6], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler with Authentication" (filed on even date herewith), and / or U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP7], entitled "Method of Applying Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler" (filed on even date herewith), the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0099] It is understood that all or part of any patent, publication, or other disclosure referred to herein as being incorporated by reference is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated content does not conflict with existing definitions, opinions, or other disclosures set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures explicitly set forth herein shall take precedence over any conflicting statements incorporated herein by reference. Any content, or portions thereof, that is referred to herein as being incorporated by reference but that conflicts with current definitions, opinions, or other disclosures set forth herein shall be incorporated only to the extent that no conflict occurs between the incorporated content and the current disclosures.

[0100] Variations of the above devices may be applied not only to traditional medical procedures and surgeries performed by medical professionals, but also to robotic-assisted medical procedures and surgeries. By way of example only, the various teachings herein may be readily incorporated into robotic surgical systems such as the DAVINCI™ system by Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Sunnyvale, California).

[0101] The device variations described above can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. The variations, in either or both cases, can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular parts, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, some device variations can be disassembled and any number of particular portions or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and / or replacement of particular parts, some device variations can be reassembled for subsequent use at a reconditioning facility or by a user immediately prior to a procedure. 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 device, are all within the scope of the present application.

[0102] By way of example only, the variations described herein may be sterilized before and / or after treatment. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electron beams. The radiation may kill bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device may then be stored in the sterile container for later use. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

[0103] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be achieved by those skilled in the art through appropriate modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. Although some of such possible modifications have been mentioned, other modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the above examples, embodiments, geometries, materials, dimensions, proportions, steps, etc. are illustrative and not required. Thus, it is understood that the scope of the present invention should be considered in relation to the following claims and is not limited to the details of construction and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

[0104] [Embodiment] (1) An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical stapler, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a contact structure defining a longitudinal axis, said contact structure comprising: (i) a first contact member, the first contact member configured to support a first portion of the support material; and (ii) a second contact member movably coupled to the first contact member, the second contact member configured to support a second portion of the support material; a contact structure, the first contact member and the second contact member configured to move away from one another in opposite directions toward the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface, respectively, to provide the contact structure in an expanded state for applying the first portion of the backing material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member and applying the second portion of the backing material to the second stapling surface with the second contact member; (b) an expansion mechanism operably coupled to the contact structure, the expansion mechanism selectively operable to transition the contact structure from an unexpanded state toward the expanded state. (2) The device of embodiment 1, wherein each of the first contact member and the second contact member includes a distal end and a proximal end relative to the longitudinal axis, the proximal end of the first contact member is connected to the proximal end of the second contact member, and the distal end of the first contact member is configured to be separated from the distal end of the second contact member while the proximal ends remain connected together to define an angle of opening distally in the expanded state. (3) The expansion mechanism includes: (i) a first handle and a first arm coupled to the first handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member; (ii) a second handle and a second arm coupled to the second handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the second contact member, the first handle and the second handle being configured to be grasped by a user's hand; and (iii) a pivot member disposed between the first arm and the second arm, The device of embodiment 1, further comprising: a pivot member, wherein the first handle and the second handle are configured to pivot relative to one another, thereby pivoting the first arm relative to the second arm via the pivot member, and the first arm and the second arm are configured to urge the first contact member and the second contact member, respectively, toward the first and second stapling surfaces in opposite directions. (4) The device of embodiment 3, wherein at least one of the first arm or the second arm includes a breakaway feature, the breakaway feature configured to break the at least one of the first arm and the second arm when a force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to the at least one of the first arm and the second arm. (5) The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a fluid input port in fluid communication with the contact structure, the fluid input port configured to accept a fluid communicated through the fluid input port, the fluid operable to actuate the contact structure between the unexpanded state and the expanded state.

[0105] (6) The device of embodiment 5, wherein the fluid is comprised of a liquid or a gas, and the expansion mechanism comprises a flexible fluid pump configured to couple to the fluid input port, the flexible fluid pump being selectively operable to communicate the liquid or the gas through the fluid input port. (7) The device of embodiment 5, wherein the fluid is composed of a liquid, and the expansion mechanism comprises a syringe configured to couple to the fluid input port, the syringe being selectively operable to communicate the liquid through the fluid input port. (8) The device of embodiment 5, wherein the fluid is compressed air, and the expansion mechanism comprises a compressed air canister configured to couple to the fluid input port, the compressed air canister being selectively pierceable to communicate the compressed air through the fluid input port. (9) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a rotational actuator, the rotational actuator being rotatable about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis. (10) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the contact structure comprises a compressible foam and the expansion mechanism comprises a retainer clip configured to engage the first and second contact members, the retainer clip configured to translate longitudinally to disengage the first and second contact members, thereby enabling expansion of the compressible foam and resulting expansion of the contact structure toward the expanded state.

[0106] (11) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to slide longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. (12) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a motor configured to actuate the contact structure, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. (13) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a first user-actuated feature and a second user-actuated feature, each of the first user-actuated feature and the second user-actuated feature configured to receive a force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. (14) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state. (15) The expansion mechanism includes: (i) a latch configured to pivotally couple to one of the first contact member or the second contact member, the latch configured to engage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member to prevent the first contact member from separating away from the second contact member, and the latch configured to pivot to disengage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member, thereby allowing the first contact member and the second contact member to separate; (ii) a torsion spring disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member and the second contact member, the torsion spring configured to bias the first contact member in a direction away from the second contact member.

[0107] (16) A surgical stapler end effector including: (a) a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets; (b) A surgical instrument assembly comprising: an apparatus as described in embodiment 1, the apparatus being operable to apply the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface. (17) An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical instrument, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: a wedge defining a longitudinal axis, said wedge comprising: (a) a first contact member, the first contact member configured to contact a first portion of the support material; (b) a second contact member configured to move relative to the first contact member to contact a second portion of the support material, each of the first contact member and the second contact member including a distal end and a proximal end relative to the longitudinal axis, the distal end of the first contact member pivotally coupled to the distal end of the second contact member; The proximal end of the first contact member is configured to selectively pivot away from the proximal end of the second contact member to apply the first and second portions of the auxiliary material to first and second stapling surfaces of a surgical instrument. (18) The device of embodiment 17, wherein at least one of the first contact member or the second contact member is configured to at least one of fixate the first portion of the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface or fixate the second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface. (19) A method of applying a support material to a surgical stapler end effector with an apparatus having a first contact member and a second contact member movably coupled together, the surgical stapler end effector including a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets, the method comprising: (a) positioning the device between the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface such that the first contact member faces the first stapling surface and the second contact member faces the second stapling surface while the device is in an unexpanded state and the end effector is in an open state; (b) transitioning the device from the unexpanded state to an expanded state moving the first contact member away from the second contact member in a direction toward the first stapling surface; (c) securing a first portion of the support material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member while the device is in the expanded state. (20) The method of embodiment 19, further comprising securing a second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface with the second contact member while the device is in the expanded state.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical stapler, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a contact structure defining a longitudinal axis, said contact structure comprising: (i) a first contact member, the first contact member configured to support a first portion of the support material; and (ii) a second contact member movably coupled to the first contact member, the second contact member configured to support a second portion of the support material; a contact structure, the first contact member and the second contact member being configured to move away from one another in opposite directions toward the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface, respectively, to provide the contact structure in an expanded state for applying the first portion of the backing material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member and applying the second portion of the backing material to the second stapling surface with the second contact member; (b) an expansion mechanism operably coupled to the contact structure, the expansion mechanism selectively operable to transition the contact structure from an unexpanded state toward the expanded state.

2. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein each of the first and second contact members includes a distal end and a proximal end relative to the longitudinal axis, the proximal end of the first contact member being coupled to the proximal end of the second contact member and the distal end of the first contact member being configured to be separated from the distal end of the second contact member while the proximal ends remain coupled together to define a distal opening angle in the expanded state.

3. The expansion mechanism includes: (i) a first handle and a first arm coupled to the first handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member; (ii) a second handle and a second arm coupled to the second handle, the first arm being disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the second contact member, the first handle and the second handle being configured to be grasped by a user's hand; and (iii) a pivot member disposed between the first arm and the second arm, 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising: a pivot member, the first handle and the second handle configured to pivot relative to one another to thereby pivot the first arm relative to the second arm via the pivot member, the first arm and the second arm configured to urge the first and second contact members, respectively, in opposite directions toward the first and second stapling surfaces.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein at least one of the first arm or the second arm includes a breakaway feature configured to break the at least one of the first arm and the second arm when a force above a predetermined level is applied to the at least one of the first arm and the second arm.

5. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a fluid input port in fluid communication with the contact structure, the fluid input port configured to receive a fluid communicated through the fluid input port, the fluid operable to actuate the contact structure between the unexpanded state and the expanded state.

6. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the fluid is comprised of a liquid or a gas, and the expansion mechanism comprises a flexible fluid pump configured to couple to the fluid input port, the flexible fluid pump being selectively operable to communicate the liquid or the gas through the fluid input port.

7. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the fluid is comprised of a liquid, and the expansion mechanism comprises a syringe configured to couple to the fluid input port, the syringe being selectively actuatable to communicate the liquid through the fluid input port.

8. 6. The device of claim 5, wherein the fluid comprises compressed air, and the expansion mechanism comprises a compressed air canister configured to couple to the fluid input port, the compressed air canister being selectively pierceable to communicate the compressed air through the fluid input port.

9. The device of claim 1 , wherein the expansion mechanism includes a rotational actuator, the rotational actuator being rotatable about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis.

10. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the contact structure comprises a compressible foam and the expansion mechanism comprises a retainer clip configured to engage the first and second contact members, the retainer clip configured to translate longitudinally to disengage the first and second contact members, thereby allowing expansion of the compressible foam and resulting expansion of the contact structure towards the expanded state.

11. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to slide longitudinally parallel to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state.

12. The device of claim 1 , wherein the expansion mechanism includes a motor configured to actuate the contact structure, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state.

13. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the expansion mechanism includes a first user-actuated feature and a second user-actuated feature, the first user-actuated feature and the second user-actuated feature each configured to receive a force in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state.

14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the expansion mechanism includes a user-actuated feature configured to rotate about the longitudinal axis, thereby actuating the contact structure toward the expanded state.

15. The expansion mechanism includes: (i) a latch configured to pivotally couple to one of the first contact member or the second contact member, the latch configured to engage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member to prevent the first contact member from separating away from the second contact member, and the latch configured to pivot to disengage the other of the first contact member or the second contact member, thereby allowing the first contact member and the second contact member to separate; 2. The apparatus of claim 1 , comprising: (ii) a torsion spring disposed between the first contact member and the second contact member and configured to contact the first contact member and the second contact member, the torsion spring configured to bias the first contact member away from the second contact member.

16. (a) a surgical stapler end effector including a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets; (b) the apparatus of claim 1, the apparatus operable to apply the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface.

17. 1. An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to at least one of a first stapling surface or a second stapling surface defined by an end effector of a surgical instrument, the first stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings and the second stapling surface including a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: a wedge defining a longitudinal axis, said wedge comprising: (a) a first contact member, the first contact member configured to contact a first portion of the support material; (b) a second contact member configured to move relative to the first contact member to contact a second portion of the support material, each of the first contact member and the second contact member including a distal end and a proximal end relative to the longitudinal axis, the distal end of the first contact member pivotally coupled to the distal end of the second contact member; The proximal end of the first contact member is configured to selectively pivot away from the proximal end of the second contact member to apply the first and second portions of the auxiliary material to first and second stapling surfaces of a surgical instrument.

18. 18. The device of claim 17, wherein at least one of the first contact member or the second contact member is configured to at least one of fixate the first portion of the auxiliary material to the first stapling surface or fixate the second portion of the auxiliary material to the second stapling surface.

19. 1. A method of applying a support material to a surgical stapler end effector with an apparatus having a first contact member and a second contact member movably coupled together, the surgical stapler end effector including a first stapling surface having a plurality of staple openings and a second stapling surface having a plurality of staple forming pockets, the method comprising: (a) positioning the device between the first stapling surface and the second stapling surface such that the first contact member faces the first stapling surface and the second contact member faces the second stapling surface while the device is in an unexpanded state and the end effector is in an open state; (b) transitioning the device from the unexpanded state to an expanded state moving the first contact member away from the second contact member in a direction toward the first stapling surface; (c) securing a first portion of the support material to the first stapling surface with the first contact member while the device is in the expanded state.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising securing a second portion of the support material to the second stapling surface with the second contact member while the device is in the expanded state.

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