Apparatus and method for separately applying buttresses to the jaws of a surgical stapler end effector - Patent Application 20070122997

Abstract

An apparatus is configured to apply an auxiliary material to a stapling surface of a jaw of a surgical stapler. The jaw includes an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface. The apparatus includes a housing and an arm. The housing includes a first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw. The arm is operably coupled to the housing. The arm includes a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw. The first and second contact mechanisms are configured to cooperate to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism, clamping the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] In some surgical situations, endoscopic surgical instruments may be preferred over traditional open surgical devices because they utilize smaller incisions within the patient, which can reduce postoperative recovery time and complications. Some endoscopic surgical instruments are suitable for positioning a distal end effector at a desired surgical site through a trocar cannula. These distal end effectors can 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 between the end effector and a handle portion, which is manipulated by the clinician. Such a shaft can facilitate 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, entitled "Articulating Surgical Stapling Instrument Incorporating a Two-Piece E-Beam Firing Mechanism," issued June 3, 2008; U.S. Pat. No. 8,408,439, entitled "Surgical Stapling Instrument with An Articulatable End Effector," issued April 2, 2013; and U.S. Pat. No. 8,453,914, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Cutting Instrument with Electric Actuator Directional Control Assembly," issued June 4, 2013. 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 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 is a perspective view of an exemplary surgical stapling instrument; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is a perspective view of the end effector of the instrument of FIG. 1 in an open state. [Figure 4A] 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 with the firing beam in a proximal position. [Figure 4B] 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 3 with the firing beam in a distal position. [Figure 5] 5 is a cross-sectional end view of the end effector of FIG. 3 taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 7] 4 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 after being placed in tissue and actuated once within the tissue. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an exemplary pair of buttress assemblies, each of which may be applied to the jaws of the end effector of FIG. 3. [Figure 9A] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional end view of a portion of the end effector of FIG. 3 with the buttress assembly of FIG. 8 applied to the upper and lower jaws of the end effector, showing the jaws in an open state with tissue positioned between the upper and lower jaws. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional end view of the end effector and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A with the end effector jaws in a closed position on tissue. [Figure 9C]9B is a cross-sectional end view of the formed staple and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A after being secured to tissue by the end effector of FIG. 3; [Figure 10] 9B is a perspective view of the formed staple and buttress assembly of FIG. 9A after being secured to tissue by the end effector of FIG. 3; FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplary buttress applier cartridge that may be used to carry and apply the buttress assembly of FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a top view of the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. [Figure 13A] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 and the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 11 showing the end effector and buttress applier cartridge aligned with one another; [Figure 13B] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the end effector of FIG. 3 and the buttress applier cartridge of FIG. 11 with the end effector jaws closed on the platform of the buttress applier cartridge. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first exemplary alternative applicator device. [Figure 15A] 15 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 14, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator device securing an already-applied buttress assembly to a distal portion of the upper jaw of the end effector. [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device, buttress assembly, and end effector of FIG. 15A, with the applicator device securing an already-applied buttress assembly to a proximal portion of the upper jaw; [Figure 15C] 15C is a cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 15B with a buttress assembly secured to the upper jaw and the second buttress assembly of FIG. 8 secured to the lower jaw of the end effector. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second exemplary alternative applicator device, with selected internal components shown schematically in phantom. [Figure 17A] 17 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 16 and the end effector of FIG. 3 , with the applicator device applying and securing a continuous buttress assembly from a material dispenser to a proximal portion of the upper jaw of the end effector. [Figure 17B] 17B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device and end effector of FIG. 17A, the applicator device applying and securing a continuous buttress assembly from a material dispenser to a distal portion of the upper jaw. FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a third exemplary alternative applicator device. [Figure 19A] 19 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 18, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the arm of the applicator device pivoted toward the upper jaw. [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device, buttress assembly, and end effector of FIG. 19A with the lateral weakened portions of the arms separated to release the buttress assembly from the applicator device and apply and secure the buttress assembly to the upper jaw; [Figure 19C] 19B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device, buttress assembly, and end effector of FIG. 19A with the buttress assembly secured to the upper jaw and the applicator device removed from the upper jaw; [Figure 20] 9 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary applicator device, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the arm of the applicator device pivoted toward the lower jaw of the end effector. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a fifth exemplary alternative applicator device. [Figure 22A] 22 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 21, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, with the applicator device being moved proximally along the upper jaw of the end effector. [Figure 22B]FIG. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device, buttress assembly, and end effector of FIG. 22A, with the applicator device being rotated via the tab to apply and secure the buttress assembly to the upper jaw; [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a sixth exemplary alternative applicator device. [Figure 24A] 24 is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device of FIG. 23, the buttress assembly of FIG. 8, and the end effector of FIG. 3, wherein the applicator device and buttress assembly are moved proximally along the upper jaw of the end effector. [Figure 24B] FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of the applicator device, buttress assembly, and end effector of FIG. 24A, with the arms of the applicator device rotated via the tabs to apply and secure the buttress assembly to the upper jaw; [Figure 25] 10A-10C illustrate an exemplary method of applying a buttress assembly.

[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. Therefore, 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 a 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 a human or robotic surgical instrument operator. Additionally, 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. Exemplary Surgical Stapler 1-7 illustrate an exemplary surgical stapling and severing instrument 10 sized for insertion into a surgical site on a patient through a trocar cannula or an incision (e.g., a thoracotomy) to perform a surgical procedure. The instrument 10 in this example includes a handle portion 20 connected to a shaft 22, 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 cannula passage of the trocar, the articulation joint 11 may be remotely articulated by an articulation control 13, as depicted in phantom in FIG. 1, to deflect the end effector 12 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 effected via a closure tube 32 and a closure ring 33, both of which translate longitudinally relative to the handle portion 20 in response to pivoting of the closure trigger 26 relative to the pistol grip 24. The closure tube 32 extends along the length of the shaft 22, and the closure ring 33 is positioned distal to the articulation joint 11. The articulation joint 11 is operable to transmit / transmit longitudinal movement from the closure tube 32 to the closure ring 33.

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

[0013] As best seen in Figures 3-6, the end effector (12) employs a firing beam (14) that includes a transversely oriented upper pin (38), a firing beam cap (44), a transversely oriented middle pin (46), and a distally presented cutting edge (48). The upper pin (38) is positioned within a longitudinal anvil slot (42) of the anvil (18) and is translatable within the longitudinal anvil slot (42). The firing beam cap (44) slidably engages 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) pivoted to an open configuration to removably load an unused staple cartridge (37) into a channel in the lower jaw (16). As best seen in Figures 5-6, the staple cartridge (37) of this embodiment includes a cartridge body (70) presenting an upper deck (72) coupled to a lower cartridge tray (74). The upper deck (72) is disposed opposite the outer surface (60). 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 proximally relative 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 seen in Figures 4A, 4B, and 6, wedge-shaped sled (41) presents an angled cam surface that urges staple driver (43) upward as wedge-shaped sled (41) is driven distally through staple cartridge (37).

[0015] As shown in Figures 4A and 4B, when the end effector 12 is closed by distally advancing the closure tube 32 and closure ring 33, the firing beam 14 is advanced distally, and the upper pin 38 enters the longitudinal anvil slot 42, 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 and 4B, the middle pin 46 and pusher block 80 together actuate the staple cartridge 37 by entering the vertical slot 49 therein, driving the wedge-shaped sled 41 upward into camming contact with the staple driver 43, which in turn drives the staples 47 out through the staple openings 51 and into forming contact with the staple-forming pockets 53 (shown in FIG. 3) on the contact surface 52 of the anvil 18. The anvil 18 includes proximal and distal portions 54, 56 and an outer surface 58 disposed opposite the contact surface 52. 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 and 4B. The anvil (18) has been intentionally omitted from the view of FIG.

[0016] Figure 7 shows the end effector 12 actuated through one 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 complete, 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 any of the teachings of the following references, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411, entitled "Motor-Driven Surgical Instrument," issued July 3, 2012; U.S. Pat. No. 9,186,142, entitled "Surgical Instrument End Effector Articulation Drive with Pinion and Opposing Racks," issued November 17, 2015; U.S. Pat. No. 9,517,065, entitled "Integrated Tissue Positioning and Jaw Alignment Features for Surgical Stapler," issued December 13, 2016; U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,746, entitled "Distal Tip Features for End Effector of Surgical Instrument," issued April 18, 2017; U.S. Pat. No. 9,622,746, entitled "Lockout Feature for No. 9,717,497 entitled "Movable Cutting Member of Surgical Instrument," U.S. Patent No. 9,795,379 entitled "Surgical Instrument with Multi-Diameter Shaft," issued October 24, 2017, U.S. Patent No. 9,808,248 entitled "Installation Features for Surgical Instrument End Effector Cartridge," issued November 7, 2017, U.S. Patent No. 9,839,421 entitled "Jaw Closure Feature for End Effector of Surgical Instrument," issued December 12, 2017, and / or U.S. Patent No. 10,092,292 entitled "Staple Forming Features for Surgical Stapling Instrument," issued October 9, 2018.

[0018] II. Exemplary Buttress Assemblies and Buttress Applier Cartridges In some cases, it may be desirable to provide the end effector 12 of the surgical instrument 10 with a supplemental material, such as a buttress, to reinforce the mechanical fastening of tissue provided by the staples 47. Such a buttress can 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 site of staple 47 application. In addition to or instead of providing structural support and integrity to the line of staples 47, the buttress can provide various other types of benefits, such as filling voids or gaps, delivering therapeutic agents, and / or another benefit. In some cases, the buttress may be provided on the upper deck 72 of the staple cartridge 37. As mentioned above, the deck 72 houses the staples 47 that are driven by the staple driver 43. In some other cases, the buttress may be provided on the surface of the anvil 18 that faces the staple cartridge 37. It should also be 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 shapes 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 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. Patent No. 10,166,023, entitled "Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler End Effector," issued January 1, 2019, and / or U.S. Patent No. 10,349,939, entitled "Method of Applying a Buttress to a Surgical Stapler," issued July 16, 2019, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] A. Exemplary Configurations of Buttress Assemblies FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary pair of buttress assemblies (110, 112) (each individually referred to as a "buttress"). The buttress assembly (110) in this example includes a buttress body (114) and an upper adhesive layer (116). Similarly, the buttress assembly (112) includes a buttress body (118) and a lower adhesive layer (120). In this example, each buttress body (114, 118) includes a strong yet flexible material configured to provide structural support for a line of staples (47). By way of example only, each buttress body (114, 118) may include a mesh of polyglactin 910 material by Ethicon, Inc. (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. Exemplary stapling of tissue with a buttress assembly 9A-9C illustrate an exemplary 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), thereby securing the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the same tissue layers (T1, T2) with the staples (47). Specifically, FIG. 9A illustrates the layers of tissue (T1, T2) positioned between an anvil (18) and a staple cartridge (37), with the anvil (18) in an open position. The buttress assembly (110) is adhered to the underside (124) of the anvil (18) via an adhesive layer (116), and the buttress assembly (112) is adhered to the upper deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37) via an adhesive layer (120). The layers of tissue 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 layers of tissue T1, T2 are compressed between the anvil 18 and the staple cartridge 37, and the buttress assemblies 110, 112 engage opposing surfaces of the layers of tissue T1, T2. The end effector 12 is then actuated as described above, driving the staples 47 through the buttress assemblies 110, 112 and 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, when the end effector 12 is pulled away from the tissue T1, T2, the buttress assemblies 110, 112 disengage from the end effector, thereby maintaining the buttress assemblies 110, 112 secured to the tissue T1, T2 by the staples 47. In this manner, the buttress assemblies 110, 112 structurally reinforce the line of staples 47 formed in the tissue T1, T2. As can also be seen in FIG. 10 , the cutting edge (48) of firing beam (14), shown distally, also cuts through the midline of the buttress tissue assemblies (110, 112), separating each buttress assembly (110, 112) into a corresponding pair of portions, each of which remains fixed in a corresponding cut region of tissue (T1, T2).

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

[0026] In this example, 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 as a unit across slots 42, 49 of anvil 18 and staple cartridge 37. More specifically, the outer edge of the platform (218) includes a retention feature (530) in the form of a ridge that further engages 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 mechanisms 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, and 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 and 13B only show the buttress assembly 110 on the platform 218, the buttress assembly 112 is retained on and released from the platform 218 in an identical manner. To load the end effector 12 with the cartridge 210, the operator 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 advances cartridge (210) proximally to position platform (218) and buttress assembly (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 assembly (110, 112) to anvil (18) and staple cartridge (37) and simultaneously depressing cam surface (232). Depression of cam surface (232) acts on 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. Exemplary Alternative Applicator Devices and Associated Methods for 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 material to one or both jaws of a surgical stapler end effector 12 while the jaws are still open or without closing the jaws by actuation of the stapler's end effector 12 closure system, such as by actuation of the closure trigger 26 of the surgical stapler 10. Additionally, it may be beneficial to separately apply auxiliary material to one or both jaws of the end effector 12 of the surgical stapler 10. The exemplary applicator devices 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 described below provide such functionality, and thus the applicator devices 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 are configured to be manipulated relative to the end effector 12 to separately apply auxiliary material to one or both jaws without requiring actuation of the jaws to close as shown in Figures 13A and 13B above. The applicator device (310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810) may apply minimal pressure to properly seat the supplemental material against the desired jaw (e.g., lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)).

[0030] It will be appreciated that any of the exemplary applicator devices described below may be configured to apply supplemental material in the form of buttresses, such as the buttress assemblies (110, 112) described above, or tissue thickness compensators, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 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 staple reinforcement elements to the jaws of the end effector (12) may be achieved using adhesive mechanisms as described above and / or mechanical interlocking mechanisms, for example, of the type disclosed in U.S. Patent Application 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.

[0031] A. First Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 14-15C illustrate a first exemplary alternative applicator device (310) configured to apply supplemental material (e.g., buttress assemblies (110, 112) or tissue thickness compensators) to the jaws (e.g., lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)) of the end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (310) adjusts the thickness of the anvil (18) or lower jaw (16), allowing the applicator device (310) to suitably apply supplemental material to both the anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16) separately. As shown in FIG. 14, the applicator device (310) includes a housing (312), an arm (314), a resilient mechanism (316), and a linkage mechanism (shown as a pin (318)). The housing (312) includes a body member (320), a protrusion (322) extending from the body member (320), and a first contact feature (324). The first contact feature (324) may extend from the body member (320) and be translatably fixed relative to the body member (320). The arm (314) may be coupled to the housing (312) using a pin (318) extending through a cavity (not shown) disposed in the body member (320) of the housing (312). However, other suitable structures for coupling the housing (312) and the arm (314) are also contemplated. The arm (314) includes a proximal end (326) and a distal end (328), and a second contact feature (330) is disposed at the distal end (328) of the arm (314).

[0032] As shown in FIG. 14, a resilient mechanism 316 may be coupled to the body member 320 of the housing 312 and the proximal end 326 of the arm 314. The arm 314 may be rotatably biased toward the housing 312 using the resilient mechanism 316 and the pin 318. The resilient mechanism 316 is configured to bias the arm 314, including the second contact mechanism 330, against the first contact mechanism 324 to apply a compressive force, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, to secure the assist material in the desired jaw. The resilient mechanism 316 may include at least one spring operably coupled to the housing 312. As shown in FIG. 14, the resilient mechanism 316 includes a tension spring 332. A first end (342) of the tension spring (332) may be coupled to the body member (320), and a second end (344) of the tension spring (332) may be coupled to the proximal end (326) of the arm (314). The tension spring (332) may bias the arm (314), including the second contact feature (330), against the first contact feature (324) by applying a compressive force. FIG. 14 shows the first contact feature (324) and the second contact feature (330) separated by a distance from each other in a neutral (i.e., resting) configuration. Alternatively, it is envisioned that the second contact feature (330) may contact the first contact feature (324) in the neutral configuration so as to apply a predetermined contact force to the first contact feature (324) before the applicator device (310) is used to secure the supplemental material to the jaws of the end effector (12).

[0033] The first contact mechanism (324) and / or the second contact mechanism (330) may include rollers. As shown in FIG. 14 , the first contact mechanism (324) includes a roller (334) coupled to the body member (320) using a linkage (336). Similarly, the second contact mechanism (330) includes a roller (338) coupled to the arm (314) using a linkage (340). The rollers (334, 338) are configured to apply a compressive force as the rollers (334, 338) move along the jaws. Specifically, the roller (338) applies a compressive force against the jaws of the end effector (12), and the roller (334) applies a reaction force. As a result, the roller (334) may be stationary and not deflectable relative to the body member (320). While rollers (334, 338) are shown in FIG. 14 as single elongated rollers, other suitable rollers, including rollers having discontinuous contact surfaces, are also contemplated. Linkage mechanisms (336, 340) may include, for example, a pin along mechanism or another suitable linkage that allows for rotation of roller (334) relative to body member (320) and rotation of roller (338) relative to arm (314). While first and second contact mechanisms (324, 330) are shown as including rollers (334, 338), it is also contemplated that first and second contact mechanisms (324, 330) may include support material or low-friction elements that may slide along the outer surfaces of the jaws.

[0034] 15A-15C show ancillary material secured on the stapling surfaces of the jaws of the end effector (12). As discussed above, the ancillary material may include buttress assemblies (110, 112), tissue thickness compensators, or other suitable materials. The stapling surface is intended to include the upper deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37) containing staple openings (50), or the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18) containing staple-forming pockets (53), as shown in FIG. 3. It is also contemplated that the anvil (18) may be disposed in the lower jaw and the staple cartridge (37) may be disposed in the upper jaw. The applicator device (310) is shown securing the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18), with the buttress assembly (110) already at least partially disposed on the anvil (18). In some variations, a user utilizing a separate device (not shown) may first apply the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18), so that the applicator device (310) more firmly presses the buttress assembly (110) against the anvil (18) and uses the desired pressure to secure the buttress assembly (110) in place. In other variations, the applicator device (310) may include or be coupled to a material dispenser that supplies supplemental material, similar to the material dispenser (430) described in detail below with reference to Figures 16-17B.

[0035] Figure 15A shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (310) of Figure 14 and the end effector (12) of Figure 3, with the applicator device (310) securing the buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of the anvil (18) of the end effector (12). As described above, the buttress assembly (110) includes an upper adhesive layer (116) configured to adhere the buttress assembly (110), including the buttress body (114), to the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18). As shown in Figure 15A, the anvil (18) includes an outer surface (58) disposed 180 degrees opposite the contact surface (52). The rollers 338 of the second contact mechanism 330 are configured to apply a compressive force to clamp the buttress assembly 110 against the distal portion 54 of the anvil 18 and secure the upper adhesive layer 116 of the buttress assembly 110 to the contact surface 52, thereby securing the upper adhesive layer 116 to the contact surface 52. As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B , the rollers 334, 338 are positioned opposite each other along a compression plane (CP). The roller 334 may rotate in an opposite direction relative to the roller 338. The roller 338 applies a compressive force as the roller 334 moves along the outer surface 58 of the anvil 18 and the roller 338 moves along the contact surface 52 of the anvil 18. In some variations, roller (338) may apply a compressive force as roller (334) moves along contact surface (52) of anvil (18) and roller (338) moves along outer surface (58) of anvil (18).

[0036] FIG. 15B shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (310) and end effector (12) of FIG. 15A showing the applicator device (310) applying the buttress assembly (110) to the proximal end (54) of the anvil (18) after the roller (334) rolls along the outer surface (58) of the anvil (18) and the roller (338) rolls along the buttress body (114) to adhere the upper adhesive layer (116) to the contact surface (52). A user may generally secure the buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of the anvil (18) and then secure the buttress assembly (110) to the proximal portion (56) of the anvil (18), although it is also envisioned that a user may secure the buttress assembly (110) to the proximal portion (56) of the anvil (18) and then secure the buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of the anvil (18).

[0037] Figure 15C shows a cross-sectional view of the end effector (12) of Figure 15B with a buttress assembly (110) secured to the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18) and a buttress assembly (112) secured to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). As shown, the buttress assembly (112) includes a lower adhesive layer (120) configured to adhere the buttress assembly (112), including the buttress body (118), to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16). Uses of the buttress assembly (112) may be similar to those of the buttress assembly (110) described above. For example, roller 338 may apply a compressive force as roller 334 moves along outer surface 60 of lower jaw 16 and roller 338 moves buttress body 118 to bond lower adhesive layer 120 to upper deck 72 of lower jaw 16. However, it is also contemplated that roller 338 may apply a compressive force as roller 334 moves along buttress body 114 to bond lower adhesive layer 120 to upper deck 72 of lower jaw 16 and roller 338 moves along outer surface 60 of lower jaw 16. Because lower jaw 16 is shown as being thicker than anvil 18, tension spring 332 may be stretched further to spread rollers 334, 338 further apart. By stretching the tension spring (332), a greater spring force may be created, which results in the lower jaw (16) being pinched between the rollers (334, 338).

[0038] B. Second Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 16-17B illustrate a second exemplary alternative applicator device (410) configured to apply supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., the lower jaw (16) or the anvil (18)) of the end effector (12) of the surgical stapler (10). The applicator device (410) adjusts the thickness of the anvil (18) or the lower jaw (16), allowing the applicator device (410) to suitably apply the supplemental material to the anvil (18) and the lower jaw (16). As a result, application of a buttress assembly (112) including a staple cartridge (37) to the lower jaw (16) using the applicator device (410) can be similar to application of the buttress assembly (110) described above. As shown in FIG. 16, the applicator device (410) includes a housing (412), an arm (414), and a resilient mechanism (416). The housing (412) includes a base (418), a first upright (420), a second upright (422), and a first contact feature (424). The first upright (420) and the second upright (422) extend outward from the base (418). The first upright (420) and the second upright (422) are shown parallel to one another. Optionally, the arm (414) may translate along a slot (426) disposed in the first upright (420) and the second upright (422). The arm (414) includes a second contact feature (428).

[0039] The housing (412) may include a supplemental material dispenser (430) that dispenses supplemental material from a spool (432) using a first contact mechanism (424). As shown, the supplemental material is a continuous buttress assembly (433). The buttress assembly (433) may include an adhesive surface for coupling with a stapling surface. Alternatively, it will be understood that the material dispenser (430) may be further constructed and operable in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0076212, entitled "Surgical End Effector Having Buttress Retention Features," published March 19, 2015, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The continuous buttress assembly (433) may be dispensed at the first contact mechanism (424). The first contact mechanism (424) applies the buttress assembly (433) to the contact surface (52). As shown, the first contact mechanism (424) includes a roller (434) secured to the first and second uprights (420, 422) and the material dispenser (430) using a linkage (436). Optionally, the spool (432) may be removed from the housing (412) by removing the linkage (436) that couples the first contact mechanism (424) with the material dispenser (430). The material dispenser (430) may deliver multiple buttresses without reloading. Additionally, a material dispenser (430) utilizing a single product code may dispense buttresses having various lengths. This may reduce the number of different buttress sizes a user needs to stock or otherwise have on hand.

[0040] The applicator device (410) may use a resilient mechanism (416) to control the force with which the supplemental material is applied from the material dispenser (430) to the jaws. The resilient mechanism (416) may be disposed between the base (418) of the housing (412) and the arm (414). The resilient mechanism (416) may be configured to bias the arm (414), including the second contact mechanism (428), against the first contact mechanism (424) to apply a compressive force, as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B. The arm (414) is configured to translate relative to the base (418) using the resilient mechanism (416). For example, the resilient mechanism (416) may include at least one spring. As shown in FIG. 16, the resilient mechanism (416) includes a pair of compression springs (438). However, more or fewer compression springs (438), such as a single compression spring, are also contemplated.

[0041] As shown in Figures 17A and 17B, a first end (440) of the compression spring (438) may be coupled to the base (418), and a second end (442) of the compression spring (438) may be coupled to the arm (414). The compression spring (438) is configured to apply a compressive force to bias the arm (414), including the second contact feature (428), against the first contact feature (424). In other words, the compression spring (438) urges the arm (414) upward onto the outer surface (58) of the anvil (18). The compression spring (438), disposed between the arm (414) and the base (418), may provide the desired applied pressure to secure the support material to the stapling surface of the jaw. 16 shows the first and second contact features (424, 428) separated from each other by a distance in a neutral (i.e., resting) configuration. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the second contact feature (428) may contact the first contact feature (424) in the neutral configuration to apply a predetermined contact force to the first contact feature (424) before the applicator device (410) is used, securing the supplemental material to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16) or contacting the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18).

[0042] The first contact mechanism (424) and / or the second contact mechanism (428) may include rollers. As shown in FIG. 16 , the second contact mechanism (428) includes a pair of rollers (444) configured to apply a compressive force as the rollers (444) move along the outer surface of the jaw. While a pair of rollers (444) is shown, a greater or lesser number of rollers (444) are contemplated. The rollers (444) on the arm (414) enable smooth application of the supplemental material along the length of the jaw. The arm (414) including the rollers (444) is configured to translate relative to the base (418) to simultaneously contact the outer surface as the spool (432) applies supplemental material to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16) or the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18). The rollers (444) may be coupled to the arm (414) using a coupling mechanism (446). Specifically, roller 444 is configured to apply a compressive force against the jaws of end effector 12, and roller 434 is configured to apply a reaction force. As a result, roller 434 may be stationary and not biased relative to base 418. As shown in FIG. 14 , rollers 434, 444 are positioned opposite each other along a compression plane (CP). While roller 434 is depicted in FIG. 16 as a single elongated roller, other rollers are contemplated, including rollers with discontinuous contact surfaces or multiple separate rollers. Linkage mechanisms 436, 446 may include, for example, pins or another suitable linkage along a mechanism that allows rotation of roller 434 relative to material dispenser 430 and roller 444 relative to arm 414. Although the second contact mechanism (428) is shown as including a roller (444), it is also envisioned that the second contact mechanism (428) may include a low friction element that may slide along the jaws.

[0043] Figures 17A and 17B illustrate supplemental material being applied and secured onto the stapling surfaces of the jaws of the end effector 12. In particular, Figure 17A illustrates a cross-sectional view of the applicator device 410 of Figure 16 and the end effector 12 of Figure 3, with the applicator device 410 securing the buttress assembly 110 to the proximal portion 56 of the anvil 18. As shown, the buttress assembly 110 includes an upper adhesive layer 116 configured to adhere the buttress assembly 110, including the buttress body 114, to the contact surface 52 of the anvil 18. The outer surface 58 of the anvil 18 is disposed 180° opposite the contact surface 52. As shown in FIG. 17A , roller (444) of second contact mechanism (428) applies a compressive force to pinch buttress assembly (110) against proximal portion (56) of anvil (18), securing upper adhesive layer (116) of buttress assembly (110) to contact surface (52). Roller (434) may rotate in the opposite direction relative to roller (444). Roller (444) applies a compressive force as roller (434) moves along outer surface (58) of anvil (18) and as roller (434) moves along buttress body (114), adhering upper adhesive layer (116) to contact surface (52) of anvil (18). The applicator device (410) exerts a clamping force on the anvil (18) between the proximal tip of the roller (434) and the center point of the roller (444) of the arm (414), which acts as a bottom force limiting anti-reverse device.

[0044] FIG. 17B shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (410) and end effector (12) of FIG. 17A, with the roller (434) rolling along the buttress body (114) to adhere the upper adhesive layer (116) to the contact surface (52), and the roller (444) rolling along the outer surface (58) of the anvil (18), after which the applicator device (410) applies and secures the buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of the anvil (18). A user may generally secure buttress assembly (110) to the proximal portion (56) of anvil (18) and then secure buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of anvil (18), although it is also envisioned that a user may secure buttress assembly (110) to the distal portion (54) of anvil (18) and then secure buttress assembly (110) to the proximal portion (56) of anvil (18). The application of buttress assembly (112) to lower jaw (16) containing staple cartridge (37) may be similar to the application of buttress assembly (110) described above.

[0045] C. Third Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 18-19C illustrate a third exemplary alternative applicator device (510) configured to apply supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., the anvil (18)) of the end effector (12) of the surgical stapler (10). As shown in FIG. 18, the applicator device (510) includes a housing (512), an arm (514), and a hinge (516). The hinge (516) pivotally connects the arm (514) to the housing (512) at a hinge point (HP) such that the arm (514) can pivot relative to the housing (512) to apply and secure the supplemental material (shown as a buttress assembly (110)) to the anvil (18). The housing (512) includes a first contact feature (518), shown as a generally flat base. The first contact feature (518) includes an inner surface (520) and an outer surface (522), with the inner surface (520) facing the arm (514). The arm (514) includes a connecting portion (524) and a second contact feature (526), ​​shown as a generally flat platform. The connecting portion (524) has a first thickness (D1) to accommodate the thickness of the anvil (18). The connecting portion (524) may include an opening (527) to allow the jaws to extend therethrough, as shown in Figures 19A-19C. The second contact feature (526) includes an inner surface (528) and an outer surface (530), with the inner surface (528) facing the inner surface (520) of the first contact feature (518). As shown in Figures 19A and 19B, the cavity (532) is disposed between the inner surface (520) of the first contact feature (518) and the inner surface (528) of the second contact feature (526).

[0046] The second contact mechanism (526) is configured to pivot relative to the first contact mechanism (518) between an open configuration (shown in FIG. 19A ) and a closed configuration (shown in FIG. 19B ) in which the second contact mechanism (526) urges the buttress assembly (110) into contact with the stapling surface. As shown in FIG. 18 , the second contact mechanism (526) includes an inner portion (534), an outer portion (536), and a retaining portion (538). The inner portion (534) and the outer portion (536) are connected to each other by lateral weakened portions (540, 542). The lateral weakened portions (540, 542) are configured to separate upon application of a predetermined pressure to release the supplemental material from the applicator device (510). The retaining portion (538) is located at an end of the second contact mechanism (526) opposite the hinge (516). The lateral weakened portions (540, 542) are configured to break to separate the inner portion (534) and the outer portion (536), except for the retaining portion (538) that keeps the inner portion (534) and the outer portion (536) connected to one another.

[0047] 19A and 19B show a supplemental material (shown as buttress assembly 110) secured onto the upper jaw (shown as anvil 18) of end effector 12. As shown, applicator device 510 can load and secure buttress assembly 110 to anvil 18. Specifically, FIG. 19A shows a cross-sectional view of applicator device 510 of FIG. 18 and end effector 12 of FIG. 3, with arm 514 of applicator device 510 pivoted toward the upper jaw (shown as anvil 18). An outer surface 58 of anvil 18 is disposed 180° opposite contact surface 52. As shown, the buttress assembly (110) includes an upper adhesive layer (116) configured to adhere the buttress assembly (110), including the buttress body (114), to the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18). As shown in FIG. 19A , the second contact feature (526) of the arm (514) provides an elongated platform to which the first side of the buttress assembly (110) is releasably attached (e.g., via adhesive). In other words, the buttress body (114) may be temporarily attached to the inner surface (528) of the second contact feature (526) using an adhesive or a mechanical interlocking mechanism. The inner portion (534) of the second contact feature (526) may be perforated along its side, excluding the retaining portion (538).

[0048] Figure 19B shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device 510 and end effector 12 of Figure 19A with the lateral weakened portions 540, 542 breaking to release the applicator device 510 from the anvil 18. The second contact mechanism 526 applies a compressive force to pinch the buttress assembly 110 against the proximal portion 56 of the anvil 18, applying and securing the buttress assembly 110 to the contact surface 52. When the arm 514 is rotated toward the jaw of the end effector 12 and compressed against the jaw of the end effector 12 with sufficient force, the lateral weakened portions 540, 542 are released. This causes the inner portion (534) to deform into a flap (544) having a free end that remains hingedly attached to the retaining portion (538), such that the remainder of the arm (514), including the flap (544), is not a completely loose part that could fall onto the patient or the floor. The retaining portion (538) may include a bendable portion configured to bend but not break when the buttress assembly (110) is released from the applicator device (510), as shown in FIG. 19B . The buttress assembly (110) separates from the inner portion (534) of the second contact feature (526) in response to closure of the arm (514) on the jaws of the end effector (12). As a result, the applicator device (510) can use the lateral weakened portions (540, 542) to control the force that the buttress assembly (110) applies to the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18).

[0049] The lateral weakened portions (540, 542) are shown as spaced perforations along each side of the medial portion (534), but are not shown at the distal end. To facilitate application, the lateral weakened portions (540, 542) may be positioned around the area adjacent to the buttress assembly (110), such that when the buttress assembly (110) is applied, the lateral weakened portions (540, 542) rupture, securing the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18). The lateral weakened portions (540, 542) may be modified to increase or decrease the force that the buttress assembly (110) applies to the anvil (18) before the lateral weakened portions (540, 542) detach. For example, the spacing between adjacent perforations and / or the ratio of material to gap may be changed. The lateral weakened portions (540, 542) on the applicator device (510) may prevent reuse of the supplemental material after deployment. The applicator device (510) is prevented from being reused by the severed lateral weakened portions (540, 542). In some variations, the arms (514) may destroy themselves or lock into an unclosable state once the arms (514) are opened, so that the detent can be overcome but is difficult to reset.

[0050] Figure 19C shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (510) and end effector (12) of Figure 19B with the buttress assembly (110) applied to the anvil (18) and the applicator device (510) being actively removed. For example, the applicator device (510) may be slid distally relative to the end effector (12) using openings located in the arms (514).

[0051] D. Fourth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 20 illustrates a fourth exemplary alternative applicator device (610) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., the lower jaw (16)) of the end effector (12) of the surgical stapler (10). As illustrated, the applicator device (610) includes a housing (612), an arm (614), and a hinge (616). The hinge (616) pivotally connects the arm (614) to the housing (612) at a hinge point such that the arm (614) can pivot relative to the housing (612) to apply and secure the supplemental material (shown as a buttress assembly (112)) to the lower jaw (16). The housing (612) includes a first contact feature (618), shown as a generally flat base. The first contact feature (618) includes an inner surface (620) and an outer surface (622), with the inner surface (620) facing the arm (614).

[0052] The arm (614) includes a connecting portion (624) and a second contact feature (626), shown as a generally flat platform. The connecting portion (624) has a second thickness (D2) to accommodate the thickness of the lower jaw (16). As a result, the connecting portion (624) may be longer than the connecting portion (524) to account for the increased thickness (i.e., height) of the lower jaw (16) compared to the anvil (18). The connecting portion (624) may include an opening (627) to allow the jaw to extend therethrough, as shown in FIGS. 19A-19C. The second contact feature (626) includes an inner surface (628) and an outer surface (630), with the inner surface (628) facing the inner surface (620) of the first contact feature (618). As shown, the cavity (632) is disposed between the inner surface (620) of the first contact feature (618) and the inner surface (628) of the second contact feature (626). The second contact feature (626) is configured to pivot relative to the first contact feature (618) between an open configuration (similar to FIG. 19A in connection with the applicator device (510)) and a closed configuration (shown in FIG. 20) that, when disposed on the second contact feature (626), urges the buttress assembly (110) into contact with the stapling surface. The second contact feature (626) includes an inner portion (634), an outer portion (not shown) similar to the outer portion (536), and a retaining portion (638). The inner portion (634) is connected to the outer portion by lateral weakened portions (not shown), which are similar to the lateral weakened portions (540, 542) described above.

[0053] Figure 20 illustrates a supplemental material (shown as a buttress assembly (112)) secured onto the lower jaw (16) of the end effector (12). As shown, an applicator device (610) can load and secure the buttress assembly (110) to the lower jaw (16). Specifically, Figure 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (610) and the end effector (12) of Figure 3, with the arm (614) of the applicator device pivoted toward the lower jaw (16) containing the staple cartridge (37) of the end effector (12). The outer surface (60) of the lower jaw (16) is positioned 180 degrees opposite the upper deck (72). As shown, the buttress assembly (110) includes a lower adhesive layer (120) configured to adhere the buttress assembly (112), including the buttress body (118), to the upper deck (72) of the staple cartridge (37) of the lower jaw (16). As shown, when the arms (614) are rotated toward the jaws of the end effector (12) and compressed against the jaws of the end effector (12) with sufficient force, the lateral weakened portions are severed, causing the inner portion (634) to transform into a flap (not shown) having a free end that remains hingedly attached to the retaining portion (638).

[0054] The application of the buttress assembly (112) to the lower jaw (16) containing the staple cartridge (37) may be similar to the application of the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18) described above. It may be desirable to package the applicator devices (510, 610) together, or the applicator devices (510, 610) and the buttress assemblies (110, 112) together. For example, a kit may include one applicator device (610) and associated buttress assembly (110) and one applicator device (610) and associated buttress assembly (112). As shown, the applicator devices (510, 610) are configured to apply the buttress assemblies (110, 112) to the desired jaw of the end effector. The applicator devices (510, 610) may include buttress assemblies (110, 112) to be applied, which are individually fitted onto each jaw, closed, and then removed to create a force limit. The applicator devices (510, 610) may accommodate different thicknesses to account for the different thicknesses of each end effector jaw. Optionally, indicia (not shown) may be placed on the applicator devices (510, 610) to indicate the desired jaw for use.

[0055] E. Fifth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 21-22B illustrate a fifth exemplary alternative applicator device (710) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., the anvil (18)) of the end effector (12) of the surgical stapler (10). As shown in FIG. 21, the applicator device (710) includes a housing (712) and an arm (714). The arm (714) includes a connecting portion (716) that couples with the housing (712). The housing (712) includes a first contact feature (718), which is shown as a U-shaped channel. The first contact feature (718) includes an inner surface (720) and opposing upwardly facing walls (722, 724). The upwardly facing walls (722, 724) include respective notches (726). The connecting portion (716) allows the arm (714) to be used as a pivot element for applying and securing a supplemental material (shown as the buttress assembly (110)) to the anvil (18). The arm (714) includes a second contact feature (728). The second contact feature (728) includes an inner surface (730) and an outer surface (732), with the inner surface (730) facing the inner surface (720) of the first contact feature (718). As shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, a channel (734) is disposed between the inner surface (720) of the first contact feature (718) and the inner surface (730) of the second contact feature (728). The housing (712) includes a downwardly extending tab (736) that can be used to secure the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18).

[0056] Figures 22A and 22B show the buttress assembly (110) being applied and secured onto the upper jaw (shown as the anvil 18) of the end effector (12). However, it is envisioned that the applicator device (710) may be modified to apply the buttress assembly (112) to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16). As shown, the applicator device (710) is capable of loading and securing the buttress assembly (110) onto the anvil (18). Specifically, Figure 22A shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (710) of Figure 21 and the end effector (12) of Figure 3, with the applicator device (710) having been moved proximally along the anvil (18). As shown in FIG. 22A , the second contact mechanism (728) of the arm (714) provides an elongated platform to which a first side of the buttress assembly (110) is releasably attached (e.g., via adhesive). The outer surface (78) of the anvil (18) is disposed 180 degrees opposite the contact surface (52). The second contact mechanism (728) is configured to be used as leverage against the first contact mechanism (718) as the second contact mechanism (728) urges the buttress assembly (110) into contact with the stapling surface.

[0057] Figure 22B shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (710) and end effector (12) of Figure 22A with the distal end (738) of the applicator device (710) rotated to contact the anvil (18) and apply the buttress assembly (110) to the anvil (18). Figure 22B shows the jaws of the end effector (12) rotated downward such that the anvil (18) is fully received within the channel (734) and compressively contacts the buttress assembly (110), inducing adhesion using the leverage provided by contact between the outer surface (58) of the anvil (18) and the inner surface (730) of the second contact feature (728). The application of buttress assembly (112) to lower jaw (16) containing staple cartridge (37) may be similar to the application of buttress assembly (110) described above, except that the additional thickness of lower jaw (16) is accommodated in the modification of applicator device (710).

[0058] F. Sixth Exemplary Alternative Applicator Device 23-24B illustrate a sixth exemplary alternative applicator device (810) configured to apply a supplemental material to the jaws (e.g., the anvil (18)) of the end effector (12) of the surgical stapler (10). As shown in FIG. 23, the applicator device (810) includes a housing (812), an arm (814), and a coupling mechanism (816) that pivotally couples the arm (814) to the housing (812). The housing (812) includes a first contact mechanism (818), which is depicted as a U-shaped channel. The first contact mechanism (818) includes an inner surface (820) and opposing upwardly facing walls (822, 824). The upwardly facing walls (822, 824) include an opening (826) configured to receive the coupling mechanism (816). The coupling mechanism (816) allows the arm (814) to pivot to apply and secure a supplemental material (shown as a buttress assembly (110)) to the anvil (18). The arm (814) includes a body portion (828). The body portion (828) includes a handle portion (830) disposed opposite a second contact mechanism (832), shown as a cam mechanism. The second contact mechanism (832) includes a first cam surface (834) and a second cam surface (836). As shown in FIG. 24A , the first cam surface (834) may be spaced a first distance (D1) from the coupling mechanism (816). A channel (838) is disposed between an inner surface (820) of the first contact mechanism (818) and the first cam surface (834) and the second cam surface (836) of the second contact mechanism (832). When the applicator device (810) is loaded onto the anvil (18), the first cam surface (834) of the second contact mechanism (818) is positioned across the channel (838) from the inner surface (820) of the first contact mechanism (832).

[0059] Figures 24A and 24B show a buttress assembly (110) secured onto the upper jaw of an end effector (12). As shown, an applicator device (810) is capable of loading and securing the buttress assembly (110) to the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18). However, it is envisioned that the applicator device (810) may be modified to apply the buttress assembly (112) to the upper deck (72) of the lower jaw (16). Specifically, Figure 24A shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device (810) of Figure 23 and the end effector (12) of Figure 3, with the applicator device (810) moved proximally along the anvil (18). As shown in Figure 24A, the second contact feature (832) of the arm (814) provides an elongated platform to which a first side of the buttress assembly (110) is releasably attached (e.g., via adhesive). The second contact mechanism (832) is configured to be used as leverage against the first contact mechanism (818) when the second contact mechanism (832) pushes the buttress assembly (110) into contact with the contact surface (52) of the anvil (18).

[0060] Figure 24B shows a cross-sectional view of the applicator device 810 and end effector 12 of Figure 24A with the handle portion 830 of the arm 814 of the applicator device 810 rotated to contact the distal portion 54 of the anvil 18 and apply the buttress assembly 110 to the anvil 18. Figure 24B shows the jaws of the end effector 12 rotated downward such that the anvil 18 is fully received within the channel 838 and compressively contacts the buttress assembly 110, inducing adhesion using the leverage provided by contact between the outer surface 58 of the anvil 18 and the second cam surface 836 of the second contact feature 832. As shown in Figure 24B, the second cam surface 836 may be spaced a second distance D2 from the coupling feature 816. The application of buttress assembly (112) to lower jaw (16) containing staple cartridge (37) may be similar to the application of buttress assembly (110) described above, except that the additional thickness of lower jaw (16) is accommodated in the modification of applicator device (810).

[0061] G. Exemplary Methods of Applying Supplemental Material to End Effector Jaws Also described is a method (910) of applying a supplemental material (e.g., a buttress assembly (110, 112) or a tissue thickness compensator) to a stapling surface (e.g., an upper deck (72) or a contact surface (52)) of a first jaw or a second jaw (e.g., a lower jaw (16) or anvil (18)) of an end effector (12) of a surgical stapler (10) using an applicator device (310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810). At step (912), the method (910) can include opening the jaws of the end effector (12) such that the lower jaw (16) and the anvil (18) are spaced apart. In step 914, the method 910 may include, with the lower jaw 16 or anvil 18 in an open configuration, sandwiching the supplemental material between the first contact feature 324, 424, 518, 618, 718, 818 and the second contact feature 330, 428, 526, 626, 728, 832 to attach the supplemental material to a stapling surface (e.g., the upper deck 72 or the contact surface 52) of one of the lower jaw 16 or anvil 18 of the end effector 12. To apply the supplemental material to the stapling surface of one of the first or second jaws, the buttress assembly 110, 112 may be sandwiched by applying a localized compressive force between the rollers 334, 338, 434, 444 using the applicator device 310, 410.

[0062] IV. Exemplary Combinations The following examples illustrate various non-exhaustive ways in which the teachings herein may be combined or applied. It should be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the claims that may be presented at any time in this application or any subsequent application related to this application. No disclaimer is intended. The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. It is contemplated that the various teachings herein may be configured and applied in many other ways. It is also contemplated that certain features referred to in the following examples may be omitted in some variations. 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 presented 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 reason regarding patentability. [Example]

[0063] 1. An apparatus configured to apply an auxiliary material to a stapling surface of a jaw of a surgical stapler, the jaw including an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface, the stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple-forming pockets; the apparatus comprising: (a) a housing including a first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; and (b) an arm operably connected to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism configured to cooperate to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism, clamping the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0064] 2. The device of Example 1, further comprising a resilient mechanism operably coupled to the housing and the arm, the resilient mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force. [Example]

[0065] 3. The device of example 2, wherein the resilient mechanism includes a spring operably coupled to the housing and the arm, the spring configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force. [Example]

[0066] 4. The device of any one or more of Examples 2 or 3, wherein the resilient mechanism includes a tension spring configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force. [Example]

[0067] An apparatus described in any one or more of Examples 2 or 3, wherein the arm includes a platform and the elastic mechanism includes a compression spring, the compression spring being configured as a whole to translate the platform to bias the second contact mechanism and apply a compressive force. [Example]

[0068] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-5, wherein at least one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes a roller configured to apply a compressive force and rotate along the stapling surface of the jaw or along an outer surface of the jaw. [Example]

[0069] 6. The apparatus of any one or more of Examples 1-5, wherein the first contact mechanism includes a first roller and the second contact mechanism includes a second roller, the second roller configured to apply a compressive force as the second roller rotates along the jaw. [Example]

[0070] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-5, wherein one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes first and second rollers configured to apply a compressive force as the first and second rollers move along the stapling surface or outer surface of the jaws. [Example]

[0071] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-5, further comprising a spool including a supply of auxiliary material, the spool coupled to the housing, and the first contact mechanism including a roller configured to apply the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0072] The device of Example 9, wherein the housing further comprises a base, and the arm comprises a second contact mechanism configured to translate relative to the base and simultaneously contact the outer surface when the spool applies the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0073] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-10, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to the housing at a hinge point between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the jaw is configured to be inserted between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism, and in the closed configuration, the second contact mechanism is configured to contact the stapling surface. [Example]

[0074] 12. The device of Example 11, wherein the second contact mechanism comprises (i) inner and outer portions connected to one another by first and second lateral weakened portions, and (ii) a retaining portion disposed at an end of the second contact mechanism disposed opposite the hinge, wherein the first and second lateral weakened portions are configured to break to separate the inner and outer portions but are held together by the retaining portion. [Example]

[0075] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-10, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to the housing at the hinge point, wherein the second contact mechanism includes first and second lateral weakened portions configured to separate upon application of a predetermined pressure to release the auxiliary material from the device. [Example]

[0076] A device described in any one or more of Examples 1 to 13, wherein the auxiliary material includes at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator that is releasably secured to the second contact mechanism. [Example]

[0077] The device of any one or more of Examples 1-13, wherein the supplemental material comprises a buttress assembly, the buttress assembly comprising an adhesive surface configured to adhere the buttress assembly to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0078] 1. An apparatus for loading the jaws of a surgical stapler, the jaws including a stapling surface and an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface, the stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple-forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) an auxiliary material including a coupling mechanism; (b) a housing including a first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; (c) an arm operably coupled to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; and (d) a resilient mechanism operably coupled to the housing and the arm, the resilient mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism, thereby clamping the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0079] The device of Example 16, wherein the auxiliary material includes at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator. [Example]

[0080] The device of example 16, wherein the auxiliary material comprises a buttress assembly and the connecting mechanism comprises an adhesive surface configured to adhere to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0081] A method for securing an auxiliary material to a stapling surface of a first jaw or a second jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler using an apparatus, wherein the stapling surface includes a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: a housing; and an arm operably connected to the housing, the housing including a first contact mechanism, and the arm including a second contact mechanism movable relative to the first contact mechanism, the method comprising: (a) separating the first jaw and the second jaw into an open configuration; and (b) while the first jaw and the second jaw are in the open configuration, applying a compressive force using the second contact mechanism to sandwich the auxiliary material between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0082] The method of example 19, wherein the second contact mechanism includes a first roller, and the first contact mechanism includes a second roller, and applying a compressive force further includes applying a compressive force to sandwich the auxiliary material between the first roller and the second roller and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0083] The method of any one or more of Examples 19 or 20, wherein applying a compression force further comprises applying a compression force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism to clamp the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0084] 22. The method of any one or more of Examples 19-21, wherein the device includes a resilient mechanism operably coupled to the housing and the arm, and the method further includes using the resilient mechanism to bias the arm, including the second contact mechanism, against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force. [Example]

[0085] 23. The method of example 22, wherein the elastic mechanism includes a tension spring operably connected to the housing and the arm, and the method further includes using the tension spring to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism. [Example]

[0086] 22. The method of any one or more of Examples 19-21, wherein the arm includes a platform and the resilient mechanism includes a compression spring, and the method further includes using the compression spring to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to translate the platform. [Example]

[0087] 24. The method of any one or more of Examples 19, 21, 22, and 23, wherein at least one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes a roller, and applying the compressive force further includes rotating the roller along the stapling surface or along the outer surface of the jaw. [Example]

[0088] 24. The method of any one or more of Examples 19, 21, 22, and 23, wherein the first contact mechanism includes a first roller and the second contact mechanism includes a second roller, and applying the compressive force further includes rotating the second roller along the jaw. [Example]

[0089] 24. The method of any one or more of Examples 19, 21, 22, and 23, wherein one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes first and second rollers, and applying the compressive force further includes rotating and moving the first and second rollers along the stapling surface or along the outer surface of the jaw to apply the compressive force. [Example]

[0090] The method of any one or more of Examples 19, 21, 22, and 23, wherein the device further comprises a spool including a supply of auxiliary material, the first contact mechanism comprises a roller, and applying the compressive force further comprises rotating the roller along the stapling surface to provide the compressive force while applying the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0091] The method of Example 28, wherein the housing further comprises a base, and applying the compressive force further comprises translating an arm including a second contact mechanism relative to the base so that the arm contacts the outer surface simultaneously as the spool applies the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0092] The method of Example 19, wherein the device further comprises a hinge, and the method further comprises (a) opening the device to an open configuration in which the jaw is inserted between the first contact feature and the second contact feature, and (b) pivoting the arm relative to the housing at the hinge point to a closed configuration in which the second contact feature contacts the stapling surface. [Example]

[0093] 20. The method of example 19, wherein the device includes a hinge, the second contact mechanism includes inner and outer portions connected to each other by first and second lateral weakened portions, and a retaining portion located at an end of the second contact mechanism located on the opposite side of the hinge, and applying the compressive force further includes rotating an arm including the inner and outer portions toward the first contact mechanism, separating the first and second lateral weakened portions to separate the inner and outer portions that are still held together by the retaining portion. [Example]

[0094] The method of Example 31, wherein separating the first and second lateral weakened portions further comprises separating the first and second lateral weakened portions when a predetermined pressure is applied that releases the auxiliary material from the device. [Example]

[0095] The method of any one or more of Examples 19-32, wherein the auxiliary material comprises at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator, and wherein applying the compressive force further comprises applying the compressive force using a second contact mechanism, sandwiching the at least one of the buttress assembly or the tissue thickness compensator between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism, and attaching the at least one of the buttress assembly or the tissue thickness compensator to the stapling surface. [Example]

[0096] 33. The method of any one or more of Examples 19-32, wherein the supplemental material comprises a buttress assembly, the buttress assembly comprising an adhesive surface, and wherein applying the compressive force further comprises applying the compressive force using a second contact mechanism, wherein when the buttress assembly is to the staple surface, sandwiching the buttress assembly between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism and attaching the adhesive surface.

[0097] V. Other It should be understood that any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein can be combined with any one or more of the other teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein. Thus, the above teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. should not be considered in isolation 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 appended claims.

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

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

[0100] 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).

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

[0102] By way of example only, the variations described herein may be sterilized before and / or after treatment. In one sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device may then be placed in a field of radiation 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] [Embodiment] (1) An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to a stapling surface of a jaw of a surgical stapler, the jaw including an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface, the stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple-forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a housing including a first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; (b) an arm operably connected to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw, wherein the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism are configured to cooperate to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism to clamp the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. (2) The device described in embodiment 1, further comprising an elastic mechanism operably connected to the housing and the arm, the elastic mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force. (3) The device of embodiment 2, wherein the elastic mechanism includes a spring operably connected to the housing and the arm, the spring configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force. (4) The device described in embodiment 2, wherein the elastic mechanism includes a tension spring, and the tension spring is configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force. (5) The device described in embodiment 2, wherein the arm includes a platform, the elastic mechanism includes a compression spring, and the compression spring is configured as a whole to translate the platform to bias the second contact mechanism and apply the compression force.

[0105] (6) The device of embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes a roller configured to apply the compressive force and to rotate along the stapling surface or along the outer surface of the jaw. (7) The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first contact mechanism includes a first roller and the second contact mechanism includes a second roller, the second roller configured to apply the compressive force as the second roller rotates along the jaw. (8) The device of embodiment 1, wherein one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes first and second rollers configured to apply the compressive force as the first and second rollers move along the stapling surface or the outer surface of the jaw. (9) The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a spool including a supply of the auxiliary material, the spool coupled to the housing, and the first contact mechanism including a roller configured to apply the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. (10) The device of embodiment 9, wherein the housing further comprises a base, and the arm includes the second contact mechanism configured to translate relative to the base and simultaneously contact the outer surface when the spool applies the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

[0106] (11) The device of embodiment 1, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to the housing at a hinge point between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration, the jaw is configured to be inserted between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism, and in the closed configuration, the second contact mechanism is configured to contact the stapling surface. (12) The second contact mechanism includes: (i) inner and outer portions connected to one another by first and second lateral weakened portions; (ii) a retaining portion located at an end of the second contact mechanism located opposite the hinge, wherein the first and second lateral weakened portions are configured to break to separate the inner and outer portions but are held together by the retaining portion. (13) The device of claim 1, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to a housing at a hinge point, and the second contact mechanism including first and second lateral weakened portions configured to separate when a predetermined pressure is applied to release the auxiliary material from the device. (14) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the auxiliary material includes at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator releasably secured to the second contact mechanism. (15) The device of embodiment 1, wherein the supplemental material includes a buttress assembly, the buttress assembly including an adhesive surface configured to adhere the buttress assembly to the stapling surface.

[0107] (16) An apparatus for loading the jaws of a surgical stapler, said jaws including a stapling surface and an outer surface disposed opposite said stapling surface, said stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple forming pockets, said apparatus comprising: (a) a support material including a linking mechanism; (b) a housing including a first contact mechanism, the first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; (c) an arm operably coupled to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the back-up material or the outer surface of the jaw; (d) an elastic mechanism operably connected to the housing and the arm, the elastic mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism, clamping the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface. (17) The device of embodiment 16, wherein the auxiliary material includes at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator. (18) The device of embodiment 16, wherein the supplemental material includes a buttress assembly and the connecting mechanism includes an adhesive surface configured to adhere to the stapling surface. (19) A method of securing a support material to a stapling surface of a first jaw or a second jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler using an apparatus, wherein the stapling surface includes a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising a housing and an arm operably connected to the housing, the housing including a first contact mechanism, and the arm including a second contact mechanism movable relative to the first contact mechanism, the method comprising: (a) separating the first jaw and the second jaw to an open configuration; (b) with the first jaw and the second jaw in the open configuration, using the second contact mechanism to apply a compressive force to sandwich the support material between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism and attach the support material to the stapling surface. (20) The method of claim 19, wherein the second contact mechanism includes a first roller, and the first contact mechanism includes a second roller, and applying the compressive force further includes applying the compressive force to sandwich the auxiliary material between the first roller and the second roller and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

Claims

1. 1. An apparatus configured to apply a supplemental material to a stapling surface of a jaw of a surgical stapler, the jaw including an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface, the stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple-forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a housing including a first contact mechanism, the first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; (b) an arm operably connected to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw, wherein the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism are configured to cooperate to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism to clamp the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

2. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a resilient mechanism operably coupled to the housing and the arm, the resilient mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force.

3. 3. The device of claim 2, wherein the resilient mechanism includes a spring operably coupled to the housing and the arm, the spring configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force.

4. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the resilient mechanism includes a tension spring configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force.

5. 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the arm includes a platform and the resilient mechanism includes a compression spring, the compression spring collectively configured to translate the platform to bias the second contact mechanism and apply the compressive force.

6. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes a roller configured to apply the compressive force and to roll along the stapling surface or along the outer surface of the jaw.

7. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first contact mechanism includes a first roller and the second contact mechanism includes a second roller, the second roller configured to apply the compressive force as the second roller rotates along the jaws.

8. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein one of the first contact mechanism or the second contact mechanism includes first and second rollers configured to apply the compressive force as the first and second rollers move along the stapling surface or the outer surface of the jaw.

9. 10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a spool including a supply of the auxiliary material, the spool coupled to the housing, and the first contact mechanism including a roller configured to apply the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

10. 10. The device of claim 9, wherein the housing further comprises a base, and the arm includes the second contact mechanism configured to translate relative to the base and simultaneously contact the outer surface when the spool applies the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

11. 10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to the housing at a hinge point between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein in the open configuration the jaw is configured to be inserted between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism, and in the closed configuration the second contact mechanism is configured to contact the stapling surface.

12. The second contact mechanism includes: (i) inner and outer portions connected to one another by first and second lateral weakened portions; (ii) a retaining portion located at an end of the second contact mechanism located opposite the hinge, wherein the first and second lateral weakened portions are configured to break to separate the inner and outer portions but are held together by the retaining portion.

13. 2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a hinge pivotally connecting the arm to the housing at a hinge point, the second contact mechanism including first and second lateral weakened portions configured to separate upon application of a predetermined pressure to release the auxiliary material from the device.

14. The device of claim 1 , wherein the ancillary material comprises at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator releasably secured to the second contact mechanism.

15. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the support material includes a buttress assembly, the buttress assembly including an adhesive surface configured to adhere the buttress assembly to the stapling surface.

16. 1. An apparatus for loading the jaws of a surgical stapler, the jaws including a stapling surface and an outer surface disposed opposite the stapling surface, the stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple-forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: (a) a support material including a linkage; (b) a housing including a first contact mechanism, the first contact mechanism configured to contact one of the auxiliary material or the outer surface of the jaw; (c) an arm operably coupled to the housing, the arm including a second contact mechanism configured to move relative to the first contact mechanism to contact the other of the back-up material or the outer surface of the jaw; (d) an elastic mechanism operably connected to the housing and the arm, the elastic mechanism configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply a compressive force in a direction toward the first contact mechanism, clamping the auxiliary material against the stapling surface and attaching the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

17. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the supplemental material comprises at least one of a buttress assembly or a tissue thickness compensator.

18. The apparatus of claim 16 , wherein the support material comprises a buttress assembly and the connecting mechanism comprises an adhesive surface configured to adhere to the stapling surface.

19. 1. A method of securing a support material to a stapling surface of a first jaw or a second jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler using an apparatus, wherein the stapling surface includes a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple forming pockets, the apparatus comprising: a housing; an arm operably connected to the housing; and a resilient mechanism operably connected to the housing and the arm, the housing including a first contact mechanism and the arm including a second contact mechanism movable relative to the first contact mechanism, the method comprising: (a) separating the first jaw and the second jaw to an open configuration; (b) with the first jaw and the second jaw in the open configuration, applying a compressive force using the second contact mechanism to sandwich the support material between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism and attach the support material to the stapling surface; The method, wherein the resilient mechanism is configured to bias the arm including the second contact mechanism against the first contact mechanism to apply the compressive force.

20. A method of securing ancillary material to a stapling surface of a first jaw or a second jaw of an end effector of a surgical stapler using an apparatus, said stapling surface including a plurality of staple openings or a plurality of staple forming pockets, said apparatus comprising a housing and an arm operably connected to said housing, said housing including a first contact mechanism, said arm including a second contact mechanism movable relative to said first contact mechanism, said method comprising: (a) separating the first jaw and the second jaw to an open configuration; (b) with the first jaw and the second jaw in the open configuration, applying a compressive force using the second contact mechanism to sandwich the support material between the first contact mechanism and the second contact mechanism and attach the support material to the stapling surface; The method, wherein the second contact mechanism includes a first roller, and the first contact mechanism includes a second roller, and applying the compressive force further includes applying the compressive force to sandwich the auxiliary material between the first roller and the second roller and attach the auxiliary material to the stapling surface.

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