Apparatus for applying a buttress to an end effector of a surgical stapler with authentication - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

The device includes a platform, a support material, and an engagement feature. The platform includes an upper support and a lower support. The support material is disposed on either the upper support or the lower support. The upper support is configured to move relative to the lower support to apply the support material to jaws of an end effector incorporated into a surgical stapler. The engagement feature is configured to interact with a predetermined portion of the end effector to allow movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, thereby applying the support material to the jaws of the end effector. The engagement feature is further configured to prevent movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the engagement feature is disengaged from the predetermined portion of the end effector.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] In some surgical situations, endoscopic surgical instruments may be preferred over traditional open surgical devices due to the use of smaller incisions in the patient, which may reduce postoperative recovery time and complications. Some endoscopic surgical instruments may be suitable for positioning a distal end effector at a desired surgical site through a trocar cannula. These distal end effectors may engage tissue in various ways to achieve diagnostic or therapeutic effects (e.g., endocutters, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, drug / gene therapy delivery devices, and energy delivery devices using ultrasound, RF, lasers, etc.). Endoscopic surgical instruments may include a shaft manipulated by the clinician between the end effector and a handle portion. Such a shaft may allow insertion to a desired depth and rotation about the shaft's longitudinal axis, thereby facilitating positioning of the end effector within the patient. Positioning of the end effector can be further facilitated by including 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 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. Some exemplary surgical staplers are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,380,696, issued June 3, 2008, entitled "Articulating Surgical Stapling Instrument Incorporating a Two-Piece E-Beam Firing Mechanism," U.S. Pat. No. 8,408,439, issued April 2, 2013, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument with An Articulatable End Effector," and U.S. Pat. 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 US patents and US patent application publications are incorporated herein 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 with the stapler before the organ is removed 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 explanation of the drawings]

[0005] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present 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] 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary surgical stapling instrument; [Figure 2] 2 shows a side view of the device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 shows a perspective view of the end effector of the instrument of FIG. 1 in an open state. [Figure 4A] 4 illustrates a 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 illustrates a 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. [Figure 5] 5 illustrates a cross-sectional end view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 shows an exploded perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 4 illustrates a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 after being placed in tissue and actuated once within the tissue. [Figure 8] 4 shows a perspective view of a representative pair of buttress assemblies, each of which may be applied to the jaws of the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 9A] 9 illustrates 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 in an open state with tissue disposed between the upper and lower jaws. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B illustrates a cross-sectional end view of the end effector and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A showing the end effector jaws closed on tissue. [Figure 9C]9B illustrates 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 shows 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 shows 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 illustrates a top view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. [Figure 13A] 12 illustrates 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; FIG. [Figure 13B] FIG. 12 illustrates a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 and the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 11 with the end effector jaws closed on the platform of the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 14A] FIG. 10 illustrates a top cutaway view of another exemplary buttress applier cartridge that may be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, with the buttress applier cartridge in a locked configuration. [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B illustrates another top cutaway view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 14A showing the buttress applier cartridge in an unlocked configuration. [Figure 15A] 14B illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 14A with the end effector of FIG. 3 inserted into the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 15B] FIG. 14B illustrates another partial cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 14A with the end effector of FIG. 3 fully inserted into the buttress applier cartridge and the platform of the buttress applier cartridge in an expanded configuration. [Figure 16]FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of yet another buttress applier cartridge that may be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. [Figure 17A] FIG. 17 illustrates a top detailed plan view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 16 with the end effector inserted into the buttress applier cartridge and selected components omitted from the view. [Figure 17B] FIG. 17B illustrates another top detailed plan view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 17A with the end effector fully inserted into the buttress applier cartridge, with selected components omitted from the view. [Figure 18] FIG. 17 illustrates another cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 16, with the platform of the buttress applier cartridge in an expanded configuration. [Figure 19A] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of yet another buttress applier cartridge that can be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 , showing an end effector inserted into the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B illustrates another partial cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 19A showing the end effector of FIG. 19A fully inserted into the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 20A] FIG. 19B shows a schematic diagram of the interior of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 19A and the switch in an open circuit configuration. [Figure 20B] FIG. 19B shows another schematic view of the interior of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 19A showing the switch in a closed circuit configuration. [Figure 21A] FIG. 10 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of yet another buttress applier cartridge that can be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 , showing an end effector inserted into the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 21B]FIG. 21B illustrates another partial cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 21A showing the end effector of FIG. 21A fully inserted into the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 22] 21B and 21C show detailed perspective views of the power input and power output of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 21A and the end effector of FIG. 21A, respectively. [Figure 23] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of yet another buttress applier cartridge that can be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 , showing the buttress applier cartridge positioned over the staple cartridge of the end effector of FIG. 3 . [Figure 24A] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge of FIG. 23 and the end effector of FIG. 3 showing the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge inserted into the lower jaw of the end effector; [Figure 24B] FIG. 24 is another cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge of FIG. 23 and the end effector of FIG. 3 showing the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge fully inserted into the lower jaw of the end effector and the platform of the buttress applier cartridge in an expanded configuration; [Figure 24C] 24 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 after the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 23 has been removed from the end effector. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 shows a partial cross-sectional view of yet another buttress applier cartridge that may be used to support and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. [Figure 26A] FIG. 24 illustrates yet another cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge of FIG. 23 showing the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge inserted into the end effector of FIG. 3 and a liner placed on the buttress applier cartridge; [Figure 26B]FIG. 26B illustrates yet another cross-sectional view of the buttress applier cartridge and staple cartridge of FIG. 23 showing the buttress applier cartridge fully inserted into the end effector of FIG. 3 and the liner of FIG. 26A engaging 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 a variety of other ways, including those not necessarily depicted in the drawings. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several aspects of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. It will be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The following description of specific examples of the present technology should not be used to limit its scope. Other examples, features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages of the present technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description, which is, by way of example, 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 aspects, all without departing from the technology. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as 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. Therefore, 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 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 the location of an element closer to a human or robotic surgical instrument operator and further from the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to the location of an element closer to a surgical end effector of the surgical instrument and further from the human or robotic surgical instrument operator. It should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," and "top" are relative terms to provide further clarity in the description of the figures provided below. The terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," and "top," therefore, are not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention(s) described herein.

[0010] I. Typical surgical staplers 1-7 illustrate a representative 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, which distally terminates in an articulation joint 11, which is further coupled to an end effector 12. Once the articulation joint 11 and end effector 12 are inserted through the trocar cannula passage, 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 at a desired angle α from the longitudinal axis (LA) of the shaft 22. The end effector (12) of this example includes a lower jaw (16) containing 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 provided 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 disposed distal to the articulation joint 11. The articulation joint 11 is operable to transmit / deliver 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 more detail below, this distal translation of firing beam (14) effects the stapling and severing of tissue clamped within end effector (12).

[0013] As shown in Figures 3-6, the end effector (12) employs a firing beam (14) including a transversely oriented upper pin (38), a firing beam cap (44), a transversely oriented middle pin (46), and a distally extending cutting edge (48). The upper pin (38) is disposed 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 the underside of the lower jaw (16) by having the firing beam (14) extend through a lower jaw slot (45) (shown in Figure 4B) formed through the lower jaw (16). The middle pin (46) slidably engages the upper side of the lower jaw (16) in cooperation with the firing beam cap (44).

[0014] Figure 3 illustrates the firing beam (14) of this embodiment positioned proximally and the anvil (18) that can be pivoted to an open configuration to removably load an unused staple cartridge (37) into the channel of the lower jaw (16). As best seen in Figures 5-6, the staple cartridge (37) of this embodiment includes a cartridge body (70) that exhibits an upper deck (72) and is coupled to a lower cartridge tray (74). As best seen in Figure 3, a vertical slot (49) extends longitudinally through a portion of the staple cartridge body (70). Also best seen in Figure 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 Figures 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) positioned proximal to the staple drivers (43). The wedge-shaped sled (41) is longitudinally movable within the staple cartridge (37), while the staple drivers (43) are vertically movable 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 driver (43), causing the staple (47) to be driven out through an associated staple opening (51). As best shown in Figures 4A-4B and 6, the wedge-shaped sled (41) presents an inclined cam surface that biases the staple driver (43) upward as the wedge-shaped sled (41) is driven distally through the staple cartridge (37).

[0015] As shown in Figures 4A-4B, once the end effector 12 is closed by distally advancing the closure tube 32 and closure ring 33, the firing beam 14 is then advanced distally, with the upper pin 38 entering the longitudinal anvil slot 42 and thereby engaging the anvil 18. 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, severing 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 actuate the staple cartridge 37 by entering vertical slots 49 therein, driving the wedge-shaped sled 41 into upward camming contact with the staple drivers 43, which in turn pushes the staples 47 out of 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 tissue cutting and stapling are complete. The staple-forming pockets 53, shown in FIG. 3, are intentionally omitted from the views of FIGS. 4A-4B. The anvil 18 is intentionally omitted from the view of FIG. 5.

[0016] Figure 7 shows the end effector 12 actuated through a single firing stroke through tissue 90. The cutting edge 48 (obscured in Figure 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 firing 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 and perform additional cutting and stapling. This process may be repeated until the desired amount and pattern of firing strokes across the tissue 90 is completed.

[0017] Instrument (10) may further be configured and operable in accordance with the teachings of any of the following references, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411, issued July 3, 2012, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Instrument"; U.S. Pat. No. 9,186,142, issued November 17, 2015, entitled "Surgical Instrument End Effector Articulation Drive with Pinion and Opposing Racks"; U.S. Pat. No. 9,517,065, issued December 13, 2016, entitled "Integrated Tissue Positioning and Jaw Alignment Features for Surgical Stapler"; and U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,746, issued April 18, 2017, entitled "Distal Tip Features for End Effector of Surgical Instrument" No. 9,717,497, issued August 1, 2017, entitled "Lockout Feature for Movable Cutting Member of Surgical Instrument," U.S. Patent No. 9,795,379, issued October 24, 2017, entitled "Surgical Instrument with Multi-Diameter Shaft," U.S. Patent No. 9,808,248, issued November 7, 2017, entitled "Installation Features for Surgical Instrument End Effector Cartridge," U.S. Patent No. 9,839,421, issued December 12, 2017, entitled "Jaw Closure Feature for End Effector of Surgical Instrument," and / or U.S. Patent No. 10,092,292, issued October 9, 2018, entitled "Staple Forming Features for Surgical Stapling Instrument."

[0018] II. Representative Buttress Assembly and Buttress Applier Cartridge 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 might 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 various 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 upper deck 72 of the staple cartridge 37. As described above, the deck 72 houses the staples 47 that are driven by the staple driver 43. In other cases, the buttress may be provided on the surface of the anvil 18 that faces the staple cartridge 37. It should also be understood that a first buttress may be provided on the upper 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 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 the anvil (18) are also described in more detail below. 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 some of the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 10,166,023, issued January 1, 2019, 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, entitled "Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler," the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] A. Typical configuration of buttress assembly FIG. 8 illustrates a representative pair of buttress assemblies (110, 112) (each individually referred to as a "buttress"). In this example, buttress assembly (110) comprises a buttress body (114) and an upper adhesive layer (116). Similarly, buttress assembly (112) comprises a buttress body (118) and a lower adhesive layer (120). In this example, each buttress body (114, 118) comprises a strong yet flexible material configured to provide structural support for a line of staples (47). By way of example only, each buttress body (114, 118) may comprise a mesh of polyglactin 910 material by Ethicon, Inc. (Somerville, New Jersey). Alternatively, any other suitable material or combination of materials may be used in addition to or in place of 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, to assist in clotting blood and reducing bleeding at the cut and / or stapled surgical site along the tissue (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 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 solutions or matrix components.

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

[0023] B. Representative stapling of tissue with the buttress assembly 9A-9C illustrate a representative sequence in which a surgical stapler 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) disposed 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), while the buttress assembly (112) is adhered to the upper 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 toward the pistol grip 24, driving the closure tube 32 and closure ring 33 distally. This 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, driving the staples 47 through the buttress assemblies 110, 112 and the tissue T1, T2. As shown in Figure 13C, the crowns (122) of the driven 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 FIG. 10. After the staples 47 and buttress assemblies 110, 112 have been deployed, the buttress assemblies 110, 112 disengage from the end effector 12 as it is pulled away from the tissue T1, T2, thereby maintaining the buttress assemblies 110, 112 secured to the tissue T1, T2 by the staples 47. In this manner, the buttresses 110, 112 structurally reinforce the line of staples 47 formed in the tissue T1, T2. As can also be seen in FIG. 10 , the distally projected cutting edge (48) of firing beam (14) also cuts through the midline of buttress tissue assemblies (110, 112), separating each buttress assembly (110, 112) into a corresponding pair of portions, each of which remains fixed in a corresponding cut region of tissue (T1, T2).

[0025] C. Typical 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 buttress assemblies (110, 112) onto the end effector jaws (16, 18) during that single surgical procedure. Figures 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 support material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to the end effector (12). As best shown in Figures 11 and 12, the cartridge (210) of this example includes an open end (212) and a closed end (214). The open end (212) is configured to receive the end effector (12), as described in more detail below. The cartridge 210 further includes a first housing 216a and a second housing 216b, each of which generally defines a "U" shape overall and presents 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] In this embodiment, platform 218 is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of platform 218 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of platform 218. Platform 218 is exposed in a recess formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of first housing 216a and second housing 216b. Although each buttress assembly 110, 112 is provided as a separate, corresponding pair of sections to avoid spanning across slots 42, 49 of anvil 18 and staple cartridge 37, respectively, platform 218 could just as easily support wider buttress assemblies 110, 112, respectively, that span across slots 42, 49 of anvil 18 and staple cartridge 37, respectively. More specifically, the outer edge of the platform (218) includes retention features (530) 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 housing 216 a and the second housing 216 b include integral gripping features 222 and indicator plates 224 positioned to correspond to windows 226 formed in the first housing 216 a and the second housing 216 b, 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, therefore, configured to resiliently support the buttress assemblies 110, 112, thereby clamping the buttress assemblies 110, 112 against the platform 218. The buttress applier cartridge (210) includes a pair of tapered camming surfaces (232) and respective pairs of housing engagement features (234) positioned to engage corresponding surfaces of the first and second housings (216 a, 216 b). The first and second housings (216 a, 216 b) include proximal and distal guide features (236, 238) configured to assist in providing proper alignment between the end effector (40) and the cartridge (210).

[0028] Figure 13A shows the cartridge 210 in a configuration in which the retainer arms 228 are positioned to hold the buttress assemblies 110, 112 against the platform 218, while Figure 13B shows the cartridge 210 in a configuration in which the retainer arms 228 are positioned to release the buttress assemblies 110, 112 from the platform 218. While Figures 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 the same manner. To load the end effector 12 with the cartridge 210, the operator would first position the cartridge 210 and end effector 12 so that the end effector is aligned with the open end 212 of the cartridge 210, as shown in Figure 13A. The operator then advances end effector (12) distally and / or retracts cartridge (210) proximally to position platform (218) and buttress assemblies (110, 112) between anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37), as shown in FIGURE 13B. Closure trigger (26) of instrument (10) is then squeezed by the operator to close end effector jaws (16, 18) on platform (218), thereby adhesively attaching buttress assemblies (110, 112) to anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) and simultaneously depressing cam surface (232). Depression of cam surface (232) acts to actuate retainer arms (228) laterally outward, 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. Representative Alternative Applicator Devices with Authentication Features and Related Methods of Applying Buttresses to Surgical Stapler End Effectors In some cases, it may be desirable to provide an applicator device 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 via actuation of the stapler's end effector closure system, such as via actuation of a closure trigger (26) of the surgical stapler (10). The exemplary applicator devices described below provide such functionality, whereby 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 actuation of the jaws to close as shown in Figures 13A-13B above. Additionally, the exemplary applicator devices described below may be operable to apply minimal pressure to properly seat the auxiliary material on the desired jaw (e.g., lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)).

[0030] It should be noted that in such embodiments, it may also be desirable for such applicator devices to include particular features to facilitate alignment between the applicator device and the jaws of the end effector. Such features may additionally or alternatively be used to prevent reuse of such applicator devices, end effectors, or both. Such features may additionally or alternatively be used to authenticate such applicator devices with a given end effector to facilitate use of such applicator devices only with a particular, predetermined end effector or end effectors having a particular, predetermined configuration.

[0031] It will be appreciated that any of the exemplary applicator devices described below may be configured to apply buttresses, such as the buttress assemblies (110, 112) described above, or auxiliary elements in the form of tissue thickness compensators, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0080336, published April 5, 2012, and now abandoned, entitled "Staple Cartridge Comprising Staples Positioned Within A Compressible Portion Thereof," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Additionally, application of the staple reinforcing elements to the end effector jaws may be achieved using adhesive features as described above and / or mechanical interlocking features, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,665,646, issued February 23, 2010, and 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.

[0032] A. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with Lockout FIG. 14A illustrates an exemplary alternative buttress applier cartridge (410) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply supplemental material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to an end effector (12). The buttress applier cartridge (410) of this embodiment is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridge (210) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like the cartridge, the cartridge (410) of this embodiment includes an open end (412) and a closed end (414). Like the open end (212) described above, the open end (412) of this embodiment is configured to receive the end effector (12), as described in more detail below. Similarly, the cartridge (410) of this embodiment further includes a first housing (416a) and a second housing (416b), each of which generally defines a "U" shape overall and presents an open end (412). A platform (418) is similarly sandwiched between the first housing (416a) and the second housing (416b).

[0033] Similar to platform 218 described above, platform 418 in this embodiment is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of platform 418 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of platform 418. Platform 418 is exposed in recesses formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of first housing 416a and second housing 416b. Although each buttress assembly 110, 112 is provided as a separate, corresponding pair of sections to avoid spanning across slots 42, 49 of anvil 18 and staple cartridge 37, respectively, platform 418 could equally easily support wider buttress assemblies 110, 112 that span as a unit across slots 42, 49 of anvil 18 and staple cartridge 37, respectively.

[0034] Unlike the platform 218 described above, the platform 418 of this embodiment is generally configured to expand in one or more directions for application of the buttress assemblies 110, 112. As described in more detail below, this functionality may be achieved by the platform 418 operating as an expandable wedge. By way of example only, this functionality may be achieved in some embodiments by configuring the platform 418 or other suitable features of the cartridge 410 in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP2], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Driven Member," filed on even date herewith, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0035] Similar to the cartridge 210 described above, the first housing 416 a and the second housing 416 b include gripping features 422. However, unlike the gripping features 222 described above, the gripping features 422 in this example are movable to selectively expand the platform 418. As described in more detail below, the gripping features 422 are generally configured to translate relative to the housings 416 a, 416 b, thereby actuating the expansion of the platform 418. It should also be understood that, in certain configurations, the gripping features 422 may be locked to prevent platform expansion or to provide a lockout application for the buttress assemblies 110, 112, as described in more detail below.

[0036] Unlike the cartridge 210 described above, the cartridge 410 of this embodiment includes a lockout assembly 440 disposed within the housing 416a, 416b. The lockout assembly 440 is generally configured to prevent expansion of the platform 418 until the cartridge 410 is properly positioned within the end effector 12, thereby preventing misapplication of the buttress assemblies 110, 112. In other words, the lockout assembly 440 is generally configured to allow deployment of the buttress assemblies 110, 112 only when a predetermined portion of the end effector 12 engages the lockout assembly 440. Such engagement can then be used to allow movement of the gripping feature 422 to actuate expansion or other movement of the platform 418.

[0037] The lockout assembly 440 of this example includes two actuators 442 positioned adjacent the open end 412 and extending inwardly from opposite sides of the cartridge 410 into the open end 412. Each actuator 442 includes an engagement portion 444, a spring collar 446, a release opening 448, and a locking end 449. While not shown, it should be understood that each actuator 442 in this example is configured as an elongated rod, I-beam, or other elongated structure. Of course, various other suitable cross-sectional shapes may be used for each actuator 442, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0038] The engagement portion 444 of each actuator 442 defines a length suitable for extending from the housing 416 a, 416 b into the open end 412. In this embodiment, this extension length of each engagement portion 444 is generally equal to half the lateral length of the open end 412. Thus, the engagement portions 444 of each actuator 442 extend toward one another such that they collectively occupy the entire lateral length of the open end 412. Alternatively, the engagement portions 444 of each actuator 442 may collectively occupy a majority of the lateral length of the open end 412, defining a slight gap at the end of each engagement portion 444. As described in more detail below, such a gap between the engagement portions 444 may be desirable to facilitate movement of each actuator 442 through engagement with a portion of the end effector 12.

[0039] A spring collar (446) is disposed along the length of each actuator (442) between the respective engagement portion (444) and release opening (448). The spring collar (446) is generally configured to engage a spring (450) disposed within one or more of the housings (416a, 416b) to bias each actuator (442) toward a predetermined position. In this embodiment, the combination of the spring collar (446) and the spring (450) is configured to bias each actuator (442) toward a locked position corresponding to the configuration shown in FIG. 14A. As described in more detail below, each actuator (442) is positioned to prevent movement of the corresponding gripping feature (442) when in the locked position.

[0040] A release opening (448) is defined in each actuator (442) proximate the locking end (449). As described in more detail below, the release opening (448) is generally configured to receive a portion of a corresponding gripping feature (422). To facilitate such configuration, each release opening (448) corresponding to each actuator (442) extends through the actuator (442) from one side to the other. Thus, each release opening (448) is configured as a through-hole extending through the corresponding actuator (442).

[0041] Adjacent the release opening (448), a locking end (449) of each actuator (442) is located on its outermost end. Each locking end (449) is generally configured to prevent movement of a portion of a corresponding gripping feature (422). It should be understood, therefore, that the locking end (449) is generally solid. As described in more detail below, each actuator (442) is generally configured to move laterally within the cartridge (410) to shift engagement between a portion of the gripping feature (422) and the locking end (449) or between a portion of the gripping feature (422) and the release opening (448).

[0042] To facilitate engagement between the gripping features (422) and the locking assembly (440), each gripping feature (422) includes a locking arm portion (424). In particular, each locking arm portion extends axially or proximally through the cartridge (410) from the body of the respective gripping feature (422) toward the respective actuator (442). Each locking arm portion (424) is generally configured as an elongated rod or beam having a cross-section corresponding to the shape of the respective release opening (448). As described in more detail below, each locking arm portion (424) is configured to be received within the respective release opening (448) to allow movement of the gripping feature (422).

[0043] As best shown in FIGS. 14A and 14B, the lockout assembly 440 generally locks and unlocks movement of the gripping feature 422 in response to predetermined portions of the end effector 12. As can be seen in FIGS. 15A and 15B, unlocking movement of the gripping feature 422 allows actuation of the cartridge 410 by the gripping feature 422 to extend the platform 418. Thus, the lockout assembly 440 is configured to transition from the locked configuration shown in FIG. 14A to the unlocked configuration of FIG. 14B. This transition enables the gripping feature 422 to actuate the extension of the platform 418, as can be seen in FIG. 15B.

[0044] As can be seen in FIG. 14A , in the locked configuration, each actuator (442) of the lockout assembly (440) is positioned inwardly such that each engagement portion (444) is in near contact (or alternatively in contact) with the opposing engagement portion (444). Correspondingly, each lock end (449) is positioned adjacent the proximal end of the corresponding lock arm portion (424). Thus, each lock end (449) prevents movement of each gripping feature (442) via the lock arm portion (424) when the lockout assembly (440) is in the locked configuration. Additionally, it should be understood that the lockout assembly (440) is biased toward the locked configuration by the spring (450) and the spring collar portion (446).

[0045] The transition of the lockout assembly 440 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration is shown in FIG. 14B. As can be seen, the transition of the lockout assembly 440 is driven by a predetermined portion of the end effector 12. In this example, this transition is driven by the cutting edge 48 of the end effector 12. The use of the cutting edge 48 in this example is generally desirable because the specific shape, size, and location of the cutting edge 48 may be unique to the end effector 12. Therefore, the use of the cutting edge 48 as described herein may function as a lockout feature to facilitate the use of a cartridge 410 having only certain end effectors corresponding to the end effectors 12 described above. In other words, an end effector having a different configuration than the end effector 12 described above may not be usable with the cartridge 410. The use of cutting edges 48 as described herein is further desirable to prevent deployment of buttress assemblies 110, 112 until cartridge 410 is properly positioned within end effector 12. While cutting edges 48 are shown and described herein as being usable to actuate lockout assembly 440, it should be understood that in other embodiments, various alternative portions of end effector 12 may be used to actuate the translation of lockout assembly 440. As should be understood, suitable portions of end effector 12 may include any portion of end effector 12 that is specific to or varies for other end effector configurations or styles.

[0046] Returning to this embodiment, the lockout assembly 440 is transitioned by engagement between the engagement portion 444 of each actuator 442 and the cutting edge 48 of the end effector 12. Specifically, the cartridge 410 is inserted into / onto the end effector 12 (or the end effector 12 is inserted into / onto the cartridge 410), bringing the cutting edge 48 into contact with each engagement portion 444. This contact pushes each actuator 442 outward a predetermined distance away from the opposing actuator 442. As shown in FIG. 14B, once this predetermined distance is reached, each release opening 448 is positioned adjacent to the proximal end of the corresponding locking arm portion 424. This allows each locking arm portion 424 to be received within the corresponding release opening 448. As a result, each gripping feature may be translated proximally relative to the housing (416a, 416b).

[0047] As shown in FIG. 15B, when the lockout assembly 440 is transitioned to the unlocked configuration, each of the gripping features 422 can be moved proximally to actuate the expansion of the platform 418. This expansion pushes the platform 418 toward the upper deck 72 and anvil 18 of the end effector 12, deploying the buttress assemblies 110, 112 thereon. While not shown, it should be understood that the gripping features 422 can be in communication with one or more features suitable for actuating the expansion of the platform 418. In this example, the gripping features 422 are used to drive the linkage assembly to expand the platform 418. As discussed above, the expansion of the platform 418 can be achieved using a variety of mechanical and / or electrical configurations.

[0048] B. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with Keyed Release FIG. 16 illustrates another exemplary buttress applier cartridge (510) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply supplemental material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to an end effector. The buttress applier cartridge (510) of this example is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridges (210, 410) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like cartridge (410), the cartridge (510) of this example includes a housing (not shown) defining an open end (not shown) and a closed end (not shown). A platform (518) is similarly inserted between one or more portions of the housing.

[0049] Similar to the platform 418 described above, the platform 518 of this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of the platform 518 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of the platform 518. Also similar to the platform 418, the platform 518 of this example is generally configured to be expandable to accommodate the buttress assemblies 110, 112. To support such expandability, the platform 518 includes an upper support 520 and a lower support 522 connected by a hinge 526. The upper support 520 includes an elongated, flat surface configured to support the buttress assemblies 110, while the lower support 522 also includes an elongated, flat surface configured to support the buttress assemblies 112.

[0050] The upper support (520) is connected to the lower support (522) at a hinge (526). The hinge (526) is located at the proximal end of each support (520, 522) such that the hinge (526) is generally configured for insertion into an end effector (612), as described in more detail below. The hinge (526) is generally configured to allow pivotal movement of the upper support (520) relative to the lower support (522).

[0051] The platform 518 of this example is configured to expand automatically (e.g., without an operator pushing or pulling on portions of the platform 518). To facilitate such automatic expansion, the platform 518 of this example further includes a resilient member or torsion spring 530 and a dashpot 532. The torsion spring 530 is configured to provide an outward force against the upper and lower supports 520 and 522 to bias the platform 518 toward the extended configuration. Meanwhile, the dashpot 532 is generally configured to provide a controlled force (e.g., an inward force) that opposes the torsion spring 530. As will be appreciated, the dashpot 532 is generally configured to act as a damper to prevent the torsion spring 530 from expanding the platform 518 at an undesirable rate. By way of example only, this functionality may be achieved in some embodiments by configuring platform (518) or other suitable features of cartridge (510) in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP2], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Driven Member," filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0052] To actuate the expansion of platform 518, cartridge 510 in this example further includes a release assembly 540. Release assembly 540 is generally configured to engage a predetermined portion of end effector 612 and, upon such engagement, actuate the expansion of platform 518. Thus, release assembly 540 is similar to lockout assembly 440 described above in that release assembly 540 facilitates use of cartridge 510 only with specific end effectors and facilitates actuation of cartridge 510 only when cartridge 510 is properly positioned within such end effector.

[0053] The opening assembly 540 of this example includes a probe 542 and a latch 548. The probe 542 includes a keyed end 544 and an elongated pusher 546 extending from the keyed end 544. A portion of the probe 542 extends proximally from the hinge 526 such that the keyed end 544 protrudes from the proximal end of the cartridge 510. As described in more detail below, a particular location of the probe 542 is configured to allow engagement between the keyed end 544 and a predetermined portion of the end effector 612 when the lower support 522 is properly seated within the end effector 610.

[0054] Elongated pusher 546 extends distally from hinge 526 and keyed end 544 toward torsion spring 530 and latch 548. Elongated pusher 546 is generally responsive to movement of keyed end 544, such that movement of keyed end 544 results in corresponding movement of elongated pusher 546. As described in more detail below, movement of elongated pusher 546 is configured to actuate latch 548, which releases torsion spring 530, thereby expanding platform 518.

[0055] Latch 548 is generally configured to selectively engage torsion spring 530 to retain torsion spring 530 in a compressed configuration. In this embodiment, latch 548 comprises an elongated rod or wire including coupler 550 and release portion 552. Coupler 550 is pivotally coupled to lower support 522 to allow latch 548 to pivot relative to lower support 522. Release portion 552 is disposed opposite coupler 550 such that it is configured to releasably engage torsion spring 530 and / or a portion of upper support 520 to retain torsion spring 530 in a compressed configuration. As described in more detail below, elongated pusher (546) is generally configured to engage latch (548) and pivot latch (548) about coupler (550) to disengage release portion (552) from a portion of torsion spring (530) and / or upper support (520).

[0056] While release assembly 540 is shown having a particular configuration, it should be understood that various alternative configurations may be used in other embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, other mechanical release mechanisms may be used to enable selective expansion of platform 518 via torsion spring 530 or other mechanisms configured for storing potential energy. In other embodiments, release assembly 540 may use various electrical / mechanical components, such as solenoids, motors, push buttons, sensors, etc. Of course, there are various other suitable configurations for release assembly 540, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0057] As can be seen in FIG. 17A , the cartridge (510) of this embodiment is configured for use with an end effector (612). The end effector (612) of this embodiment is substantially similar to the end effector (12) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like the end effector (12) described above, the end effector (612) of this embodiment employs a firing beam (614) that can be used to cut and staple tissue in a single stroke. Like the firing beam (14) described above, the firing beam (614) of this embodiment may be driven against an anvil (not shown) (similar to the anvil (18)) and an unused staple cartridge (not shown) (similar to the staple cartridge (37)) to cut and staple tissue. Like the staple cartridge (37), the staple cartridge of the end effector (612) is removably mounted within a channel in the lower jaw (616).

[0058] Unlike the end effector 12 described above, the end effector 612 of this embodiment includes a cartridge lockout portion 630 incorporated therein. The lockout portion 630 is generally configured to mate with a specific corresponding component of a staple cartridge. Such a mating arrangement moves the lockout portion 630 into a predetermined position to unlock specific operations of the end effector 612, such as movement of the firing beam 614 and closing of the anvil. It should be understood, therefore, that the lockout 630 is configured to prevent use of the end effector 612 when no staple cartridge is installed, when an inappropriate staple cartridge (e.g., lacking a mating feature) is installed, or when the staple cartridge is improperly installed. In some embodiments, lockout (630) and other related features of end effector (612) and staple cartridge may be configured in accordance with the teachings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 453,273, filed June 26, 2019, entitled "Method for Providing an Authentication Lockout in a Surgical Stapler with a Replaceable Cartridge," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0059] Use of the buttress applier cartridge (510) with an end effector (612) is illustrated in Figures 17A-18. As can be best seen in Figure 17A, the cartridge (510) may be inserted into the end effector (612) first, positioning the lower support (522) to align with the lower jaw (616) of the end effector (612). The insertion direction is such that the hinge (526) and keyed end (544) are inserted into the end effector (612) first, toward the lockout portion (630).

[0060] When cartridge 510 is fully inserted into end effector 612, keyed end 544 engages a portion of lockout portion 630, as can be seen in FIG. 17B. In some embodiments, the particular geometric shape of keyed end 544 may be configured to correspond to particular geometric features of lockout portion 630 to further facilitate accurate positioning of cartridge 510 relative to end effector 612. In any event, upon engagement between keyed end 544 and lockout portion 630, keyed end 544 pushes probe 542 distally.

[0061] As best shown in FIG. 18 , as the probe (542) moves distally, the elongated pusher (546) engages the latch (548). In response, the latch (548) is pushed by the elongated pusher (546) to pivot about the coupler (550), thereby disengaging the release portion (552) from the torsion spring (530) and / or the upper support (520). Once the torsion spring (530) is released, the platform (518) can be expanded at a controlled pace using the force applied by the torsion spring (530) and the dashpot (532) to apply the buttress assembly (110, 112) to the end effector (612).

[0062] C. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with RFID Authentication 19A and 20A illustrate yet another exemplary alternative buttress applier cartridge (710) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply supplemental material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to an end effector. The buttress applier cartridge (710) of this example is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridges (210, 410, 510) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like cartridge (410), the cartridge (710) of this example includes a housing (716) defining an open end (712) and a closed end (714). A platform (718) is similarly inserted between one or more portions of the housing.

[0063] Similar to platform 418 described above, platform 718 of this embodiment is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of platform 718 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of platform 718. Also similar to platform 418, platform 718 of this embodiment is generally configured to be expandable to accommodate buttress assemblies 110, 112. To support such expandability, platform 718 generally includes some mechanism configured to facilitate its expansion. By way of example only, platform 718 of this embodiment includes an expandable wedge driven by a linkage mechanism similar to platform 418 described above. However, it should be understood that other suitable mechanisms, such as an expandable balloon, a spring-loaded wedge, a lead screw drive mechanism, or the like, may be used in other embodiments. In still other embodiments, platform 718 may be configured according to one or more of the teachings of [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP2], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Driven Member," filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0064] Unlike the platform 418 described above, the expansion of the platform 718 in this embodiment is motor-driven rather than manually driven by an operator. In particular, as best shown in FIG. 20A , the interior of the cartridge 710 includes a motor 730, a power source 734, and a switch 738, all of which are integrated into a circuit. While not shown, it should be understood that the motor 730 in this embodiment may communicate with one or more features of the platform 718 to drive the expansion of the platform 718. For example, as described above, the platform 718 in this embodiment may use a linkage mechanism to provide its expansion. Thus, in such an embodiment, the motor 730 may be configured to rotate a lead screw or other drive mechanism to move the platform 718 from the flat configuration to the extended configuration. Of course, in other configurations in which an alternative expansion mechanism is used, the motor 730 may be modified as needed. For example, in some embodiments, the motor 730 may include a vacuum pump, a linear actuator, or the like.

[0065] Switch 738 is in communication with motor 730 and power source 734 to selectively activate and deactivate power provided to motor 730 via power source 734. While power source 734 in this example is shown as a battery, any other suitable power source may be used, including a DC and / or AC power source. Although not shown, it should be understood that motor 730, power source 734, and switch 738 may be connected to other electrical circuits, such as a microcontroller, controller, relays, diodes, capacitors, inductors, resistors, inverters, etc.

[0066] Returning to FIG. 19A , cartridge (710) further includes RFID module (740). As described in more detail below, RFID module (740) is generally configured to respond to one or more corresponding RFID components of end effector (812). This relationship is generally desirable to provide both confirmation that cartridge (710) is being used with a suitable end effector similar to end effector (810) and confirmation that cartridge (710) is properly positioned prior to deployment of buttress assemblies (110, 112) via platform (718).

[0067] As can be seen, RFID module 740 is in communication with switch 738. In this example, RFID module 740 is configured to trip or otherwise actuate the switch between an open circuit configuration and a closed circuit configuration. As will be appreciated, this configuration allows RFID module 740 to actuate motor 730, thereby expanding platform 718 for deployment of buttress assemblies 110, 112, only when RFID module 740 is in proximity to a specific corresponding feature of end effector 812.

[0068] The RFID module 740 in this example is positioned adjacent the proximal end of the cartridge 710, proximate the open end 712. While only a single RFID module 740 is visible, it should be understood that additional RFID modules 740 may be positioned on each side of the cartridge 710 (e.g., one on the off-page side of FIG. 19A and one on the on-page side of FIG. 19A). As described in more detail below, this proximal positioning is generally desirable to confirm proper positioning of the cartridge 710 within the end effector 812. In other examples, any suitable number of RFID modules 740 may be used. For example, in some examples, four RFID modules 740 may be used, two on the proximal end of the cartridge 710 and two on the distal end of the cartridge 710. Such a configuration may be desirable to provide improved position confirmation. Thus, in other embodiments, even more RFID modules 740 may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. Additionally, in embodiments in which multiple RFID modules 740 are used, it should be understood that all RFID modules 470 may be in communication with switch 738, such that all RFID modules 740 may be used to transition switch 738 between an open circuit configuration and a closed circuit configuration.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 19A , the cartridge (710) can be used with an end effector (812). The end effector (812) of this embodiment is substantially similar to the end effector (12) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like the end effector (12) described above, the end effector (812) of this embodiment employs a firing beam (814) that can be used to cut and staple tissue in a single stroke. Like the firing beam (14) described above, the firing beam (814) of this embodiment may be driven relative to an anvil (818) and an unused staple cartridge (837) to cut and staple tissue. Like the staple cartridge (37), the staple cartridge (837) is removably mounted within a channel in the lower jaw (816).

[0070] Unlike the end effector 12 described above, the end effector 812 of this embodiment includes an RFID module 840 positioned adjacent to the crotch formed by the anvil 818 and the lower jaw 816. The RFID module 840 of the end effector 812 is generally configured to communicate with the RFID module 740 of the cartridge 710. By way of example only, the RFID module 840 of the end effector 812 is configured as an RFID sensor or antenna, while the RFID module 740 of the cartridge 710 is configured as an RFID chip or transmitter for transmitting radio frequencies to the RFID module 840 of the end effector 812. Of course, in other embodiments, this configuration can be reversed, with the RFID module 840 configured as a chip or transmitter and the RFID module 740 configured as a sensor or antenna.

[0071] While the end effector 812 in this example is shown as having a single RFID module 840, it should be understood that in other examples, the end effector 812 may include any suitable number of RFID modules 840. For example, in some examples, an array of RFID modules 840 may be used within the end effector 812, with a group of RFID modules 840 configured to serve a particular purpose. In such a configuration, one group of RFID modules 840 may be used to detect and authenticate the presence of a particular staple cartridge similar to staple cartridge 837, while another group of RFID modules 840 may be used to detect and authenticate the presence of a particular buttress applier cartridge similar to buttress applier cartridge 710. Yet another group of RFID modules 840 may be used to detect and authenticate the presence (or absence) of other auxiliary components, such as staple cartridge retainers. In some embodiments, a suitable configuration of RFID module 840 may follow at least a portion of the teachings of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 458,108, filed June 30, 2019, entitled "Surgical Instrument System Comprising an RFID System," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] An example use of this embodiment is shown in Figures 19A-20B. As can be seen, the end effector 812 is first moved relative to the cartridge 710 to insert the cartridge 710 into the end effector 812. Figure 20A shows the switch 738 of the cartridge 710 in an open configuration during insertion. This open configuration corresponds to the platform 718 being in a non-extended configuration. Although not shown, it should be understood that in some uses, the end effector 812 can be electronically locked prior to and during insertion of the cartridge 710. For example, the RFID module 840 may generate a signal corresponding to the cartridge 710 not being detected. This signal may then be communicated to electronic circuitry within the end effector (810) or other portion of the instrument (not shown) to physically or electronically lock the instrument or portion of the end effector (810) from moving (e.g., to prevent distal advancement of the firing beam (814)).

[0073] When cartridge 710 is fully inserted into end effector 812, RFID module 740 of cartridge 710 is adjacent to RFID module 840 of end effector 812, as can be seen in FIG. 19B. RFID module 740 then responds to the presence of RFID module 840 by transitioning switch 738 from an open configuration to a closed configuration, as shown in FIG. 20B. This transition of switch 738 activates motor 730, thereby expanding platform 718, thereby applying buttress assembly 110, 112 to anvil 818 and staple cartridge 837 of end effector 812.

[0074] In some uses, RFID module 840 may also respond to the presence of RFID module 740. For example, RFID module 840 may generate one or more signals upon detecting the presence of RFID module 740. Such signals may then be transmitted to end effector 812 or other portions of the instrument to release or otherwise disengage certain lockout features. Alternatively, such lockout features may remain activated but disengage either after a predetermined time or until the presence of RFID module 740 is no longer detected.

[0075] D. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with External Power Input FIG. 21A illustrates yet another exemplary alternative buttress applier cartridge (910) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply supplemental material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to an end effector. The buttress applier cartridge (810) of this example is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridges (210, 410, 510, 710) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, similar to cartridge (410), the cartridge (910) of this example includes a housing (916) defining an open end (912) and a closed end (914). A platform (918) is similarly inserted between one or more portions of the housing (916).

[0076] Similar to platform 418 described above, platform 918 of this embodiment is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of platform 918 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of platform 918. Also similar to platform 418, platform 918 of this embodiment is generally configured to be expandable to accommodate buttress assemblies 110, 112. To support such expandability, platform 918 generally includes some mechanism configured to facilitate its expansion. By way of example only, platform 918 of this embodiment includes an expandable wedge driven by a linkage mechanism similar to platform 418 described above. However, it should be understood that other suitable mechanisms, such as an expandable balloon, a spring-loaded wedge, a lead screw drive mechanism, or the like, may be used in other embodiments. In still other embodiments, platform 918 may be configured according to one or more of the teachings of [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP2], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Driven Member," filed on the same day as this application, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0077] Unlike the platform 418 described above, the expansion of the platform 918 in this embodiment is motor-driven rather than manually driven by an operator. Specifically, as best shown in FIG. 21A , the cartridge 910 includes a power input or keyed driver 930. The power input 930 is shown in communication with one or more features of the platform 918 to drive the expansion of the platform 918. Such features of the platform 918 may be driven by the power input 930 in a variety of ways. For example, as described above, the platform 918 in this embodiment may use a linkage mechanism to provide its expansion. Thus, in such an embodiment, the power input 930 may be configured to rotate a lead screw or other drive mechanism to move the platform 918 from a flat configuration to an extended configuration. Of course, in other configurations in which alternative expansion mechanisms are used, the power input 930 may be modified as needed. For example, in some embodiments, power input 930 may include a vacuum pump, a linear actuator, or the like.

[0078] The power input 930 is configured to communicate with certain features of the end effector 1012. As described in more detail below, in some embodiments, the end effector 1012 may include certain power outputs or rotary drive features that may be used to power, drive, or actuate certain accessory components configured for use with the end effector 1012. Therefore, it should be understood that the cartridge 910 of this embodiment does not require an internal power source to operate. Instead, the cartridge 910 may be powered by an external power source, including, but not limited to, certain rotary drive components integrated into the end effector 1012.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 21A , the cartridge 910 can be used with an end effector 1012. The end effector 1012 of this embodiment is substantially similar to the end effector 12 described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like the end effector 12 described above, the end effector 1012 of this embodiment employs a firing beam 1014 that can be used to cut and staple tissue in a single stroke. Like the firing beam 14 described above, the firing beam 1014 of this embodiment may be driven against an anvil 1018 and an unused staple cartridge 1037 to cut and staple tissue. Like the staple cartridge 37, the staple cartridge 1037 is removably mounted within a channel in the lower jaw 1016.

[0080] Unlike the end effector 12 described above, the end effector 1012 of this embodiment includes a power output or rotational driver 1040 disposed adjacent to the crotch formed by the anvil 1018 and the lower jaw 1016. The power output 1040 of the end effector 1012 is generally configured to engage the power input 930 of the cartridge 910 to transfer power from the end effector 1012 to the cartridge 910. By way of example only, the power output 1040 of this embodiment is configured to transfer rotational motion to the cartridge 910 via the power input 930. As best shown in FIG. 22 , both the power input 930 and the power output 1040 are fixed relative to one another to facilitate the transfer of such rotational motion.

[0081] While the power input 930 and power output 1040 in this example are configured for the transmission of rotational mechanical power, it should be understood that in other examples, various forms of energy may be transmitted between the power input 930 and the power output 1040. For example, in some examples, the power output 1040 may be configured to transmit translational motion to the power input 930. In other examples, the power output 1040 may be configured to transmit electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power to the power input 930. In such examples, the cartridge 910 may include other components suitable for using such electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic power, such as motors, pumps, valves, filters, and / or the like. Of course, in still other examples, various alternative power transmission mechanisms may be used, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0082] 21A and 21B illustrate a typical use of the buttress applier cartridge (910) with the end effector (1012). As can be seen in FIG. 21A, the cartridge (910) and end effector (1012) are initially separated. In this position, the platform (918) is in a flat configuration. Note that the power input (930) is not in communication with the power output (1040), and therefore the platform (918) cannot transition to an extended configuration. Thus, when the cartridge (910) and end effector (1012) are initially separated, the power input (930) and power output (1040) functionally act as lockout features to prevent inadvertent or premature deployment of the buttress assembly (110, 112).

[0083] Next, as can be seen in FIG. 21B , the cartridge (910) is moved into position within the end effector (1012) by moving the end effector (1012) relative to the cartridge (910) or by moving the cartridge relative to the end effector (1012). In this position, the open end (912) of the cartridge (910) is inserted into the end effector (1012) to allow engagement between the power input (930) and the power output (1040). Once the power input (930) and the power output (1040) are engaged, the platform (918) can be expanded by rotating the power input (930) via the power output (1040) to deploy the buttress assembly (110, 112) onto the anvil (1018) and staple cartridge (1037). It should be understood that engagement between the power input portion (930) and the power output portion (1040) is required for expansion of the platform (918), and therefore the power input portion (930) and the power output portion (1040) function as alignment features to facilitate proper positioning of the buttress assemblies (110, 112).

[0084] In some uses, the power output 1040 may be incorporated into a drive for the firing beam 1014 and / or other operating components of the end effector 1012. In such embodiments, it should be understood that the power output 1040 may rotate in one direction to drive the firing beam 1014 and / or other operating components of the end effector 1012, while the power output 1040 may rotate in the opposite direction to drive the expansion of the platform 918 via the power input 930. In some embodiments, such an operating feature may be desirable to prevent inadvertent movement of the end effector 1012 (e.g., firing of the firing beam 1014), such as during deployment of the buttress assemblies 110, 112.

[0085] E. Representative Alternative Applicator Devices with Positioning Features FIG. 23 illustrates another exemplary buttress applier cartridge (1110) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator") that may be used to support, protect, and apply supplemental material, such as buttress assemblies (110, 112), to an end effector. The buttress applier cartridge (1110) of this example is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridge (510) described above, except as expressly described herein. For example, like cartridge (510), the cartridge (1110) of this example includes a platform (1118) configured to expand or otherwise move the buttress assemblies (110, 112) for application to an end effector. Although not shown, it should be understood that in other examples, the cartridge (1110) may also include other additional features similar to a housing.

[0086] Similar to the platform 518 described above, the platform 1118 of this example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies 110 on one side of the platform 1118 and another pair of buttress assemblies 112 on the other side of the platform 1118. Also similar to the platform 518, the platform 1118 of this example is generally configured to be expandable to accommodate the buttress assemblies 110, 112. To support such expandability, the platform 1118 includes an upper support 1120 and a lower support 1122 connected by a hinge 1126. The upper support 1120 includes an elongated flat surface configured to support the buttress assemblies 110, while the lower support 1122 also includes an elongated flat surface configured to support the buttress assemblies 112.

[0087] The upper support (1120) is connected to the lower support (1122) at a hinge (1126). The hinge (1126) is disposed at a proximal end of each support (1120, 1122) such that the hinge (1126) is generally configured for insertion into an end effector (12), as described in more detail below. The hinge (1126) is generally configured to allow pivoting of the upper support (1120) relative to the lower support (1122).

[0088] Unlike the platform 518 described above, the platform 1118 of this example is configured to be manually expanded by actuation by an operator. To facilitate such manual expansion, the platform 1118 of this example further includes a manipulation tab 1130 and a locking tab 1132. The manipulation tab 1130 extends distally from the upper support 1120 and is generally configured to be grasped by an operator to manually pull or otherwise manipulate the upper support 1120 about the hinge 1126.

[0089] A locking tab (1132) extends distally from the lower support (1122). As described in more detail below, the locking tab (1132) is generally configured to be fastened to a staple cartridge (37) of the end effector (12) to secure the lower support (1122) to the staple cartridge (37). To facilitate such fastening, the locking tab (1132) is generally shaped to correspond to the shape of the distal end of the staple cartridge (37). In addition, the locking tab (1132) includes a locking tooth (1134) extending proximally from the distal end of the locking tab (1132). As will be appreciated, the locking tooth (1134) is generally configured to engage a portion of the staple cartridge (37) to releasably secure the locking tab (1132) to the staple cartridge (37).

[0090] Platform 1118 further includes upper and lower inserts 1140 and 1142 extending from upper and lower supports 1120 and 1122, respectively. As described in more detail below, both upper and lower inserts 1140 and 1142 are configured to engage portions of the end effector 12 / staple cartridge 37 to provide positioning features or mechanical grounds to ensure proper placement of cartridge 1110 within end effector 12. Lower support 1122 is further useful for detecting certain features of end effector 12 (e.g., wedge sled 41) to prevent use of cartridge 1110 with end effector 12 in an improper state (e.g., after firing of wedge sled 41).

[0091] The upper insert 1140 extends upwardly from the upper surface of the upper support 1120. The particular size and shape of the upper insert 1140 is generally configured to allow reception of the upper insert 1140 within the longitudinal anvil slot 42 of the anvil 18. As will be appreciated, this configuration allows the upper insert 1140 to ensure proper positioning of the upper support 1120 relative to the anvil 18 for proper application of the buttress assembly 110. In other words, the upper insert 1140 is configured to act similar to a limit gauge to prevent application of the buttress assembly 110 if the cartridge 1110 is mistakenly aligned with, or used entirely with, an improper end effector 12.

[0092] The lower insert (1142) extends downwardly from the lower surface of the lower support (1122). The particular size and shape of the lower insert (1142) is generally configured to allow the lower insert (1142) to be received within the vertical slot (49) of the staple cartridge (37). As will be appreciated, this configuration allows the lower insert (1142) to ensure proper alignment of the lower support (1122) with respect to the staple cartridge (37). Furthermore, the lower insert (1142) is configured to prevent use of the staple cartridge (1110) when the staple cartridge (37) is in a fired state. As will be appreciated, this function is generally provided by the lower insert (1142) being shaped to avoid the wedge-shaped sled (41) when the wedge-shaped sled (41) is in a home or unfired position. Meanwhile, the lower insertion portion (1142) is also shaped to contact the wedge-shaped thread (41) when the wedge-shaped thread (41) is in the firing position, thereby preventing full insertion of the cartridge (1110) into the end effector (12).

[0093] 24A-24C illustrate exemplary use of cartridge (1110) with end effector (12) to apply buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the end effector (12) / staple cartridge (37). As can be seen in FIG. 24A, cartridge (1110) can be first loaded onto staple cartridge (37) prior to insertion of staple cartridge (37) into lower jaw (16) of end effector (12). Cartridge (1110) can be loaded onto staple cartridge (37) by inserting lower insert (1142) into vertical slot (49) of staple cartridge (37) and then snapping locking tab (1132) onto the distal end of staple cartridge (37). It should be noted that the step of loading cartridge (1110) onto staple cartridge (37) may also include applying buttress assembly (112) to upper deck (72) of staple cartridge (37).

[0094] Although this use shows cartridge (1110) being loaded onto staple cartridge (37) prior to insertion of staple cartridge (37) into lower jaw (16) of end effector (12), it should be understood that in other uses, staple cartridge (37) may simply be inserted into lower jaw (16) first. In such alternative uses, staple cartridge (37) may be inserted into lower jaw (16), and then cartridge (1110) may be loaded onto staple cartridge (37).

[0095] Regardless of the particular order of loading the staple cartridge (1110) into the staple cartridge (37) and the staple cartridge (37) into the lower jaw (16), once both components are loaded, the upper support (1120) of the cartridge (1110) may be used to apply the buttress assembly (110). Specifically, as best shown in FIG. 24B , the buttress assembly (110) may be applied by an operator grasping the manipulation tab (1130) and pivoting the upper support (1120) upwardly toward the anvil (18) about the hinge (1126). The upper insert (1140) may then be received by the longitudinal anvil slot (42) to ensure proper alignment between the upper support (1120) and the anvil (18). Upon receiving the upper insert (1140) within the longitudinal anvil slot (42), the upper support (1120) may further pivot about the hinge (1126) to apply the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18).

[0096] After the buttress assembly (110) has been applied to the anvil (18) as described above, the cartridge (1110) may be removed from the end effector (12), as shown in Figure 24C. With the cartridge (1110) removed, the end effector (12) may then be used for a procedure.

[0097] F. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with Reuse Lock In some buttress applier cartridges similar to the buttress applier cartridge (1110) described above, it may be desirable to include certain features to prevent or inhibit reuse of the cartridge after application of the buttress assembly (110, 112). FIG. 25 illustrates an exemplary alternative buttress applier cartridge (1210), which is substantially similar to the buttress applier cartridge (1110) described above, unless expressly stated otherwise herein. For example, similar to the cartridge (1110), the cartridge (1210) of this example includes a platform (1218) having an upper support (1220) and a lower support (1222). Although not shown, it should be understood that the upper support (1220) and the lower support (1222) may include structure similar to the manipulation tab (1130), locking tab (1132), upper insert (1140), and lower insert (1142).

[0098] Cartridge 1210 also includes hinge 1226, similar to hinge 1126 described above. However, unlike hinge 1126, hinge 1226 in this example includes one-way stop 1250. One-way stop 1250 is generally configured to act as a ratchet mechanism by allowing hinge 1226 to open while preventing full re-closure after opening. In this example, one-way stop 1250 is configured as a protrusion or detent feature integrated into a portion of hinge 1226 to allow rotation of upper support 1220 in one direction but prevent rotation of upper support 1220 in another direction after upper support 1220 passes a certain predetermined rotation point.

[0099] While one-way stop 1250 is shown in this embodiment as being integrated into hinge 1226, it should be understood that in other embodiments, one-way stop 1250 may be readily integrated into other components of cartridge 1210. Alternatively, in other embodiments, one-way stop 1250 may be an entirely separate component attached to one or more elements of cartridge 1210. Various alternative configurations for one-way stop 1250 will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

[0100] In use, the cartridge (1210) may be used in a similar manner as described above with respect to the cartridge (1110). For example, the cartridge (1210) may first be loaded onto the staple cartridge (37). The combination of the cartridge (1210) and staple cartridge (37) may then be inserted into the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). The upper support (1220) may then be pivoted about the hinge relative to the lower support (1222) to apply the buttress assembly (110). However, unlike the use described above, it should be understood that once the support (1220) is pivoted past a certain point, the one-way stop (1250) functions to prevent pivoting in the reverse direction. Thus, when the cartridge (1210) is removed after application of the buttress assemblies (110, 112), the cartridge (1210) may remain at least partially open, providing a positive indication of its previous use and thereby preventing its reuse. It should be understood that while the one-way stop (1250) prevents some counter-pivoting of the upper support (1220), at least some counter-pivoting may still be permitted to allow removal of the cartridge (1210) from the end effector (12) after application of the buttress assembly (110, 112).

[0101] G. Representative Alternative Applicator Device with Liner In embodiments, it may be desirable to use the above-described buttress assemblies (110, 112) with a single-use, pre-applied liner. Such a liner may be desirable to protect the buttress assemblies (110, 112) until their application onto the end effector. As can be seen in FIG. 26A , the above-described buttress applier cartridge (1110) is shown having an additional liner (1150) disposed over the buttress assembly (110). While the liner (1150) is described herein as being used with the cartridge (1110), it should be understood that the liner (1150) described below may alternatively be used with any of the other cartridges (210, 410, 510, 710, 810, 1210) described herein.

[0102] The liner (1150) in this embodiment is a single-material covering configured to cover the buttress assembly (110). In this embodiment, the liner (1150) comprises a paper or polymeric material. In other embodiments, various alternative materials may be used. Further, in addition to, or alternatively, such materials of the liner (1150) may be coated with one or more coating layers of various materials, such as waxes, polymers, alloys, combinations of different materials, etc.

[0103] Liner (1150) includes a cover portion (1152) and a surplus portion (1144). Cover portion (1152) corresponds to the size and shape of buttress assembly (110) for covering buttress assembly (110), while surplus portion (1144) extends proximally from buttress assembly (110). As described in more detail below, surplus portion (1144) is generally configured to engage a portion of end effector (12) to provide a visual cue for removing liner (1150).

[0104] Figures 26A and 26B illustrate a representative use of the cartridge 1110 having the liner 1150. It should be understood that the use of the cartridge 1110 having the liner 1150 is substantially similar to the use described above with respect to Figures 24A-24C, unless expressly stated otherwise herein. For example, as described above, the cartridge 1110 may first be loaded onto the staple cartridge 37, and then both the cartridge 1110 and the staple cartridge 37 may be inserted into the lower jaw 16 of the end effector 12. However, unlike the use described above, in this use, the liner 1150 is pre-applied to the cartridge 1110 such that the liner 1150 is also inserted into the lower jaw 16 along with the cartridge 1110 and the staple cartridge 37, as can be seen in Figure 26A.

[0105] As cartridge 1110 is inserted into lower jaw 16, excess portion 1144 engages the crotch of end effector 12 formed at the intersection of lower jaw 16 and anvil 18. This engagement causes excess portion 1144 of liner 1150 to be compressed, coiled, or bunched within the space between the crotch of end effector 12 and buttress assembly 110. This change in excess portion 1144 may provide a visual cue to remind the operator to remove liner 1150 before proceeding. Although not shown, it should be understood that in some embodiments, such functionality of the excess portion (1144) may be added by the excess portion (1144) including a T-shaped or otherwise extended proximal end to avoid the possibility of the excess portion (1144) remaining longitudinally extended by entering a portion of the end effector (12).

[0106] The liner (1150) may then be removed by an operator grasping the excess portion (1144) or other portion of the liner (1150) configured to aid in removal (e.g., a removal tab). Once the liner (1150) is removed, the operator may apply the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18) by grasping the manipulation tab (1130) and pivoting the upper support (1120), similar to what was described above with respect to FIG. 24B. The cartridge (1110) may then be removed, and the end effector (12) may be readily used in a procedure.

[0107] IV. Representative Combinations The following examples illustrate various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein can be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of any claims that may be filed at any time in this application or any subsequent application thereof. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided merely for illustrative purposes. 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. Accordingly, none of the aspects or features referred to below should be considered critical unless later expressly indicated as such by the inventors or their successors. If a claim filed in this application or any subsequent application related to this application includes additional features other than those referred to below, those additional features should not be considered added for any reasons of patentability. [Example]

[0108] An apparatus comprising: a platform including an upper support and a lower support; an auxiliary material disposed on the upper support or the lower support, wherein the upper support is configured to move relative to the lower support in a direction toward the jaws of an end effector of a surgical stapler to apply the auxiliary material to the jaws; and an engagement feature configured to interact with a predetermined portion of the end effector to allow movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, thereby applying the auxiliary material to the jaws of the end effector, the engagement feature configured to prevent movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the engagement feature is disengaged from the predetermined portion of the end effector. [Example]

[0109] The device of example 1, wherein the engagement feature includes an actuator having an engagement portion configured to engage a predetermined portion of the end effector to move the actuator, thereby enabling movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. [Example]

[0110] 3. The apparatus of example 2, further comprising a gripping feature, the gripping feature being movable relative to the platform to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. [Example]

[0111] 4. The apparatus of example 3, wherein the actuator is configured to engage a portion of the gripping feature to stop movement of the gripping feature relative to the platform. [Example]

[0112] 5. The device of claim 3 or 4, wherein the actuator includes a release opening, and the actuator is configured to move the release opening relative to the gripping feature to selectively lock and unlock movement of the gripping feature. [Example]

[0113] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-6, wherein the engagement feature includes a probe having a keyed end, the keyed end configured to mate with a predetermined portion of the end effector, and the keyed end configured to engage with a corresponding portion of the end effector to enable movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. [Example]

[0114] The apparatus of example 6, further comprising a latch configured to couple the upper support to the lower support, the keyed end configured to translate in response to engagement with a corresponding portion of the end effector, thereby separating the upper support from the lower support. [Example]

[0115] 8. The apparatus of example 7, further comprising a spring, the spring configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support. [Example]

[0116] 8. The apparatus of example 7, further comprising a spring and a dashpot, wherein the spring is configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support, and the dashpot is configured to damp the movement driven by the spring. [Example]

[0117] An apparatus described in any one or more of Examples 7 to 9, wherein the latch includes an elongated member configured to rotate relative to the lower support, and the actuator includes an elongated pusher configured to rotate the elongated member of the latch. [Example]

[0118] 11. The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1-10, wherein the supplemental material comprises a first buttress assembly and a second buttress assembly, the first buttress assembly being disposed on the upper support and the second buttress assembly being disposed on the lower support. [Example]

[0119] The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1-11, further comprising: a motor; and a power source in communication with the motor, the motor in communication with at least the upper support to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, and the engagement feature configured to activate the motor in response to engagement with a predetermined portion of the end effector. [Example]

[0120] 13. The device of any one or more of Examples 1-12, wherein the engagement feature comprises an upper insert and a lower insert, the upper insert extending upward from the upper support and the lower insert extending downward from the lower support. [Example]

[0121] 14. The device of example 13, wherein the upper insertion portion is configured to engage with an anvil of the end effector and the lower support is configured to engage with a staple cartridge of the end effector. [Example]

[0122] 15. The device of example 14, wherein the upper support is configured to pivot relative to the lower support to drive engagement between the upper insert and the anvil of the end effector. [Example]

[0123] an end effector including an anvil and jaws configured to support a plurality of staples, the anvil and the jaws pivotable relative to one another to clamp tissue; a buttress applier cartridge including a platform having a lower support and an upper support, the upper support configured to transition the platform to an expanded configuration relative to the lower support; and an end effector engagement assembly configured to enable transition of the platform to the expanded configuration when a portion of the end effector engagement assembly engages a portion of the end effector; and a buttress assembly disposed on the upper support or the lower support of the buttress applier cartridge, the upper support or the lower support configured to apply the buttress assembly to the end effector when the platform is in the expanded configuration. [Example]

[0124] 17. The apparatus of example 16, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a probe, the probe having an engagement portion keyed to a portion of the end effector, the engagement portion configured to engage with the end effector when the buttress applier cartridge is aligned with the anvil and lower jaw of the end effector. [Example]

[0125] An apparatus as described in Example 16 or 17, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a first locator and a second locator, the first locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the anvil, and the second locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the jaw. [Example]

[0126] 1. A method comprising: inserting a lower insert of a buttress applier cartridge into a slot of an unused staple cartridge to apply a first buttress assembly from a lower support platform of the buttress applier cartridge onto an upper deck of the staple cartridge; moving an upper support platform of the buttress applier cartridge relative to the lower support platform to insert an upper insert of the buttress applier cartridge into an anvil slot of an anvil of a surgical stapler end effector; and applying a second buttress assembly onto the anvil using movement of the upper support platform while the upper insert is received in the anvil slot. [Example]

[0127] The method of Example 19, further comprising inserting an unused staple cartridge into the lower jaw of the surgical stapler end effector after inserting the lower insertion portion into the slot of the unused staple cartridge. [Example]

[0128] 19. The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1-18, further comprising a linkage assembly in communication with the upper and lower supports of the platform, a portion of the linkage assembly configured to rotate or translate to drive the upper and lower supports away from each other. [Example]

[0129] 22. The device of any one or more of Examples 1-18 and 21, wherein at least a portion of the platform is configured to removably couple to an end effector. [Example]

[0130] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-18 and 21-22, further comprising a housing having an open end and a closed end, the open end of the housing configured to receive the distal end of the end effector. [Example]

[0131] 20. The method of example 19, further comprising engaging an end effector engagement assembly of the buttress applier cartridge with a predetermined portion of the surgical stapler end effector, wherein engaging the end effector engagement assembly with the predetermined portion of the surgical stapler end effector enables movement of the upper support platform relative to the lower support platform. [Example]

[0132] 25. The method of example 24, wherein the predetermined portion of the surgical stapler end effector is a cutting edge. [Example]

[0133] 25. The method of example 24, wherein the predetermined portion of the surgical stapler end effector is a lockout feature. [Example]

[0134] The method of any one or more of Examples 19 and 24-26, wherein the step of moving the upper support platform relative to the lower support platform includes releasing a spring-loaded drive assembly in communication with the upper support platform and the lower support platform. [Example]

[0135] The method of any one or more of Examples 19 and 24-26, wherein the step of moving the upper support platform relative to the lower support platform includes actuating a linkage assembly in communication with the upper support platform and the lower support platform.

[0136] 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 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 within the scope of the claims.

[0137] 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 Bas" (filed on the same day as this application); U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP2], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Apply Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler via Driven Member" (filed on the same day as this application); 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); U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP4], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Close End Effector of Surgical No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP5], entitled "Apparatus and Method to Detect Full Seating of Buttress Applicator in End Effector of Surgical Stapler" (filed on the same day as this application), and / or U.S. Patent Application No. [Attorney Docket No. END9286USNP7], entitled "Method of Applying Buttress to End Effector of Surgical Stapler" (filed on the same day as this application), the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0138] It should be understood that the whole 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 contradict existing definitions, views, or other disclosure set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as expressly set forth herein shall supersede any conflicting statements incorporated herein by reference. Any content, or portions thereof, referred to herein as being incorporated by reference but which contradicts current definitions, views, or other disclosure set forth herein shall be incorporated only to the extent that no conflict arises between the incorporated content and the current disclosure.

[0139] Variations of the above-described 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).

[0140] Variations of the devices described above may be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they may be designed to be used multiple times. Variations, in either or both cases, may be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning may 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 variations of devices may be disassembled, and any number of particular portions or parts of the device may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and / or replacement of particular parts, some variations of devices may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility or by a user immediately prior to a procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

[0141] 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 a high-energy electron beam. 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.

[0142] While various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, further adaptations of the methods and systems described herein may be realized by those skilled in the art through appropriate modifications without departing from the scope of the present invention. While some such possible modifications have been described, 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. Accordingly, it will be understood that the scope of the present invention should be considered in terms of the following claims and is not limited to the details of construction and operation shown and described in the specification and drawings.

[0143] [Embodiment] (1) A device comprising: (a) a platform including an upper support and a lower support; (b) an auxiliary material disposed on the upper support or the lower support, the upper support configured to move relative to the lower support in a direction toward a jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler to apply the auxiliary material to the jaw; and (c) an engagement feature configured to interact with a predetermined portion of the end effector to allow movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, thereby applying the supplemental material to the jaws of the end effector, and wherein the engagement feature is configured to prevent movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the engagement feature is disengaged from the predetermined portion of the end effector. (2) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the engagement feature includes an actuator having an engagement portion configured to engage the predetermined portion of the end effector to move the actuator, thereby enabling movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. (3) The device of claim 2, further comprising a gripping feature, the gripping feature being movable relative to the platform and driving movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. (4) The device of claim 3, wherein the actuator is configured to engage a portion of the gripping feature to stop movement of the gripping feature relative to the platform. (5) The device of embodiment 4, wherein the actuator includes a release opening, and the actuator is configured to move the release opening relative to the gripping feature to selectively lock and unlock movement of the gripping feature.

[0144] (6) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the engagement feature includes a probe having a keyed end configured to mate with the predetermined portion of the end effector, the keyed end configured to engage with the corresponding portion of the end effector to enable movement of the upper support relative to the lower support. (7) The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a latch configured to couple the upper support to the lower support, the keyed end configured to translate in response to engagement with the corresponding portion of the end effector, thereby separating the upper support from the lower support. (8) The device of claim 7, further comprising a spring configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support. (9) The device of embodiment 7, further comprising a spring and a dashpot, wherein the spring is configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support, and the dashpot is configured to damp movement driven by the spring. (10) The device of embodiment 9, wherein the latch includes an elongated member configured to rotate relative to the lower support, and the actuator includes an elongated pusher configured to rotate the elongated member of the latch.

[0145] (11) The apparatus of embodiment 1, wherein the supplemental material includes a first buttress assembly and a second buttress assembly, the first buttress assembly being disposed on the upper support and the second buttress assembly being disposed on the lower support. (12) The apparatus of embodiment 1, further comprising a motor and a power source in communication with the motor, the motor in communication with at least the upper support to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, and the engagement feature configured to actuate the motor in response to engagement with the predetermined portion of the end effector. (13) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the engagement feature includes an upper insert and a lower insert, the upper insert extending upward from the upper support and the lower insert extending downward from the lower support. (14) The device of embodiment 13, wherein the upper insert is configured to engage an anvil of the end effector and the lower support is configured to engage a staple cartridge of the end effector. (15) The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the upper support is configured to pivot relative to the lower support to drive engagement between the upper insert and the anvil of the end effector.

[0146] (16) An apparatus comprising: (a) an end effector, the end effector comprising: (i) an anvil; (ii) an end effector comprising jaws configured to support a plurality of staples, the anvil and the jaws being pivotable relative to one another to clamp tissue; (b) a buttress applier cartridge, the buttress applier cartridge comprising: (i) a platform having a lower support and an upper support, the upper support configured to move relative to the lower support to transition the platform from an unextended configuration to an extended configuration; (ii) an end effector engagement assembly configured to enable transition of the platform to the expanded configuration when a portion of the end effector engagement assembly engages a portion of the end effector; and (c) a buttress assembly disposed on the upper support or the lower support of the buttress applier cartridge, the upper support or the lower support configured to apply the buttress assembly to the end effector when the platform is in the expanded configuration. (17) The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a probe having an engagement portion keyed to a portion of the end effector, the engagement portion configured to engage the end effector when the buttress applier cartridge is aligned with the anvil and the lower jaw of the end effector. (18) The apparatus of embodiment 16, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a first locator and a second locator, the first locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the anvil, and the second locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the jaw. (19) A method comprising: (a) inserting a lower insert of a buttress applier cartridge into a slot of an unused staple cartridge to apply a first buttress assembly from a lower support platform of the buttress applier cartridge onto an upper deck of the staple cartridge; (b) moving an upper support platform of the buttress applier cartridge relative to the lower support platform to insert an upper insert of the buttress applier cartridge into an anvil slot of an anvil of a surgical stapler end effector; (c) applying a second buttress assembly onto the anvil using the movement of the upper support platform while the upper insert is received within the anvil slot. (20) The method of claim 19, further comprising, after the step of inserting the lower insertion portion into the slot of the unused staple cartridge, inserting the unused staple cartridge into a lower jaw of the surgical stapler end effector.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus comprising: (a) a platform including an upper support and a lower support; (b) an auxiliary material disposed on the upper support or the lower support, the upper support configured to move relative to the lower support in a direction toward a jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler to apply the auxiliary material to the jaw; and (c) an engagement feature configured to interact with a predetermined portion of the end effector to allow movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, thereby applying the supplemental material to the jaws of the end effector, and wherein the engagement feature is configured to prevent movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the engagement feature is disengaged from the predetermined portion of the end effector.

2. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the engagement feature includes an actuator having an engagement portion configured to engage the predetermined portion of the end effector to move the actuator, thereby enabling movement of the upper support relative to the lower support.

3. The apparatus of claim 2 , further comprising a gripping feature, the gripping feature being movable relative to the platform to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support.

4. The device of claim 3 , wherein the actuator is configured to engage a portion of the gripping feature to stop movement of the gripping feature relative to the platform.

5. 5. The device of claim 4, wherein the actuator includes a release opening, the actuator configured to move the release opening relative to the gripping feature to selectively lock and unlock movement of the gripping feature.

6. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the engagement feature comprises a probe having a keyed end configured to mate with the predetermined portion of the end effector, the keyed end configured to engage the corresponding portion of the end effector to allow movement of the upper support relative to the lower support.

7. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a latch configured to couple the upper support to the lower support, the keyed end configured to translate in response to engagement with the corresponding portion of the end effector, thereby separating the upper support from the lower support.

8. The apparatus of claim 7 , further comprising a spring configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support.

9. 8. The apparatus of claim 7, further comprising a spring and a dashpot, the spring configured to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support when the latch is separated from the upper support, and the dashpot configured to damp movement driven by the spring.

10. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the latch includes an elongated member configured to rotate relative to the lower support, and the probe includes an elongated pusher configured to rotate the elongated member of the latch.

11. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the support material includes a first buttress assembly and a second buttress assembly, the first buttress assembly being disposed on the upper support and the second buttress assembly being disposed on the lower support.

12. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a motor; and a power source in communication with the motor, the motor in communication with at least the upper support to drive movement of the upper support relative to the lower support, and the engagement feature configured to actuate the motor in response to engagement with the predetermined portion of the end effector.

13. The device of claim 1 , wherein the engagement feature includes an upper insert and a lower insert, the upper insert extending upwardly from the upper support and the lower insert extending downwardly from the lower support.

14. The device of claim 13, wherein the upper insert is configured to engage an anvil of the end effector and the lower support is configured to engage a staple cartridge of the end effector.

15. The apparatus of claim 14 , wherein the upper support is configured to pivot relative to the lower support to drive engagement between the upper insert and the anvil of the end effector.

16. 1. An apparatus comprising: (a) an end effector, the end effector comprising: (i) an anvil; (ii) an end effector comprising jaws configured to support a plurality of staples, the anvil and the jaws being pivotable relative to one another to clamp tissue; (b) a buttress applier cartridge, comprising: (i) a platform having a lower support and an upper support, the upper support configured to move relative to the lower support to transition the platform from an unextended configuration to an extended configuration; (ii) an end effector engagement assembly configured to allow transition of the platform to the expanded configuration when a portion of the end effector engagement assembly engages a portion of the end effector; and (c) a buttress assembly disposed on the upper support or the lower support of the buttress applier cartridge, the upper support or the lower support configured to apply the buttress assembly to the end effector when the platform is in the expanded configuration.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a probe having an engagement portion keyed to a portion of the end effector, the engagement portion configured to engage the end effector when the buttress applier cartridge is aligned with the anvil and the jaws of the end effector.

18. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the end effector engagement assembly includes a first locator and a second locator, the first locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the anvil and the second locator configured to be received within at least a portion of the jaw.

Images