Interlock for linear surgical stapling device

Abstract

A surgical stapling device includes a tool assembly including an anvil assembly, a cartridge assembly, and a drive assembly. The cartridge assembly includes a deployable knife that is movable from a lowered position to a raised position in response to movement of the drive assembly from a drive retracted position towards a drive advanced position. The tool assembly supports a lockout member that is movable from a locked position to an unlocked position in response to advancement of the drive assembly from the drive retracted position towards the drive advanced position when a knife and / or actuation sled is present. The lockout member is provided to prevent firing of the stapling device when a knife and / or actuation sled is not present in the tool assembly.

Description

PATENT APPLICATIONAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01INTERLOCK FOR LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent application No.63 / 735,105, filed December 17, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] Surgical stapling devices configured for endoscopic use are commonly used during surgical procedures to minimize patient trauma and reduce patient recovery times. Typically, endoscopic stapling devices include a tool assembly and a drive assembly that is movable in relation to the tool assembly to actuate the tool assembly. The tool assembly includes an anvil and a cartridge assembly that are coupled to each other by a pivot member and movable in relation to each other between unclamped and clamped positions in response to movement of the drive assembly from a retracted position to an advanced position. The cartridge assembly includes a staple cartridge that includes a cartridge body that supports staples. A drive assembly may then actuate a sled through the cartridge that causes the staples to be ejected into clamped tissue. Once the tissue is stapled, or concurrently with the stapling, the tissue is cut via a knife of the stapler.SUMMARY

[0003] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0004] The technology disclosed herein relates to a lockout member within a surgical stapling device. The surgical stapling device includes a tool assembly including an anvil assembly, a cartridge assembly, and a drive assembly. The tool assembly also includes a working member (e.g., I-beam) that supports the lockout member. The lockout member is movable from a locked position to an unlocked position in response to advancement of the drive assembly from a drive retracted position (e.g., proximal position) towards a drive advanced position (e.g., a distal position) when a knife and / or actuation sled is present. The lockout member may be rotatably coupled to the working member (e.g., I-beam). When the lockout member contacts the knife, theAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 lockout member rotates to pull a protruding leg of the lockout member inward, which allows the working member to continue advancing distally through the tool assembly (e.g., through the cartridge and the anvil). If the lockout member does not contact the knife (because the knife is missing), the lockout member does not rotate, and the protruding leg remains in its extended, outward position. Advancement of the working member is prevented because the protruding foot contacts a hard stop of the tool assembly (e.g., a distal wall of a lockout slot).

[0005] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following Detailed Description are explanatory and are intended to provide further aspects and examples of the disclosure as claimed.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The following drawing figures, which form a part of this application, are illustrative of aspects of systems and methods described below and are not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure in any manner, which scope shall be based on the claims.

[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical stapling device with an indicated tool assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the tool assembly as shown in FIG. 1.

[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0010] FIG. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a channel member of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0012] FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0013] FIG. 7 is a side cross-sectional view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0015] FIG. 9 is a side cross-sectional view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2, but without a knife.

[0016] FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2, but without a knife.

[0017] FIG. 11 is a perspective exploded view of a working member and a lockout member shown in FIG. 3.Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01

[0018] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the working member and the lockout member of FIG.11.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the working member and the lockout member of FIG.11.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a top view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0022] FIG. 16 is a bottom view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0023] FIG. 17 is a front view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0024] FIG. 18 is a rear view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0025] FIG. 19 is a side view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0026] FIG. 20 is a side view of the working member of FIG. 11.

[0027] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0028] FIG. 22 is a top view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0029] FIG. 23 is a bottom view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0030] FIG. 24 is a front view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0031] FIG. 25 is a rear view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0032] FIG. 26 is a side view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0033] FIG. 27 is a side view of the lockout member of FIG. 11.

[0034] FIG. 28 is a perspective cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0035] FIG. 29 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the other embodiment of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 28.

[0036] FIG. 30 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the other embodiment of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 28.

[0037] FIG. 31 is another perspective cross-sectional view of the other embodiment of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 28.

[0038] While examples of the disclosure are amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific aspects have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention is not to limit the scope of the disclosure to the particular aspects described. On the contrary, the disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure and the appended claims.Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The disclosed surgical stapling device will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views.

[0040] In this description, the term “proximal” is used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is closer to a clinician during use of the device in its customary fashion, while the term “distal” is used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is farther from the clinician during use of the device in its customary fashion. Additionally, the term left (or sinister) is used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is left of a clinician during use of the device in its upright position, while the term right (or dexter) is used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is right of the clinician during use of the device in its upright position.

[0041] In addition, directional terms such as front, rear, upper, lower, top, bottom, and similar terms are used to assist in understanding the description when the device in in an upright position and are not intended to limit the disclosure. Further, the term “clinician” is used generally to refer to medical personnel including doctors, nurses, surgeons, and support personnel. Additionally, the terms “inside”, “inner”, “internal”, and the like are used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is relatively closer to longitudinal axis X as illustrated in FIGs. 1 and 7-10 (e.g., closer to a central or most internal point), while the terms “outside”, “outer”, “external”, and the like are used generally to refer to that portion of the device that is further away from longitudinal axis X (e.g., closer to an outermost point).

[0042] As discussed briefly above, medical staplers often both staple and cut tissue of a patient. For instance, tissue is first clamped between the jaws of the stapler (e.g., between an anvil and a cartridge). Once clamped, the tissue is stapled on both sides of a cut line. A knife is then translated forward along the cut line to cut and separate the tissue. In some examples, the stapling and cutting process are related in that a sled is concurrently translated forward along with the knife. The sled travels in front (e.g., distally) of the knife and causes the staples to be ejected prior to the knife cutting the tissue. The activation and performance of this stapling (and cutting) process is often referred to as “firing” the stapling device.

[0043] During manufacturing or assembly of the stapling devices, the knife or other components of the stapling device may be unintentionally omitted or malformed. When the knifeAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 is missing, at least partial stapling of the tissue may still occur, but cutting of the tissue is not possible, which is undesirable.

[0044] The technology disclosed herein addresses, among other things, a missing knife (or other components) within the stapling device. More specifically, the device includes a unique mechanical lockout that prevents the firing the stapling device when a knife or sled of the stapling device is missing or improperly configured. The lockout member of the stapling device described herein pivots in a manner that allows for firing when the knife and / or sled are properly included and positioned within the stapling device. When the knife and / or sled are missing, the lockout member does not pivot, and firing of the stapling device is prevented.

[0045] More specifically, the technology disclosed herein includes a lockout member within a surgical stapling device. The surgical stapling device includes a tool assembly including an anvil assembly, a cartridge assembly, and a drive assembly. The tool assembly also includes a working member (e.g., I-beam) that supports the lockout member. The lockout member is movable from a locked position to an unlocked position in response to advancement of the drive assembly from a drive retracted position (e.g., proximal position) towards a drive advanced position (e.g., a distal position) when a knife and / or actuation sled is present. The lockout member may be rotatably coupled to the working member (e.g., I-beam). When the lockout member contacts the knife, the lockout member rotates to pull a protruding leg of the lockout member inward, which allows the working member to continue advancing distally through the tool assembly (e.g., through the cartridge and the anvil). If the lockout member does not contact the knife (because the knife is missing), the lockout member does not rotate, and the protruding leg remains in its extended, outward position. Advancement of the working member is prevented because the protruding foot contacts a hard stop of the tool assembly (e.g., a distal wall of a lockout slot).

[0046] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a surgical stapling device shown generally as stapling device 10 that includes a handle assembly 12, an elongate body 14, and a tool assembly 16. FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a perspective cross- sectional view of a channel member of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2. FIGs. 1-5 are discussed concurrently below.

[0047] The handle assembly 12 is powered and includes a stationary handgrip 18 and an actuation button or buttons 19. Although not shown, the stationary handgrip 18 supports a motor and control circuitry to drive the mechanisms of the stapling device 10. The actuation buttons 19Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 are operable to activate the motor to actuate various functions of the tool assembly 16 via the elongate body 14 (e.g., approximation of the tool assembly 16, and stapling and cutting of tissue). In aspects of the disclosure, the handle assembly 12 supports batteries (not shown) that provide power to the handle assembly 12 to operate the stapling device 10. Although the stapling device 10 is illustrated as a powered stapling device, it is envisioned that the advantages of this disclosure are suitable for use with manually powered surgical stapling devices as well as robotically controlled stapling devices. For instance, the tool assembly 16 may be connected to a robotic arm of the robotic surgical system. U.S. Patent No. 5,865,361 describes a stapling device that includes example aspects of a manually powered stapling device.

[0048] The elongate body 14 of the stapling device 10 defines a longitudinal axis “X” and includes a proximal portion 14a and a distal portion 14b. The proximal portion 14a of the elongate body 14 is coupled to the handle assembly 12, and the distal portion 14b of the elongate body 14 supports the tool assembly 16. In some examples, the tool assembly 16 is pivotably coupled to the distal portion 14b of the elongate body 14 to facilitate articulation of the tool assembly 16 in relation to the elongate body 14.

[0049] The tool assembly 16 includes an anvil assembly 20 and a cartridge assembly 22. The cartridge assembly 22 may be pivotably supported in relation to the anvil 20 to facilitate movement of the tool assembly 16 between an unclamped position (FIG. 1) and a clamped position (such as shown in FIGs. 7-10). In some examples, the tool assembly 16 includes a mounting assembly 24 that supports the anvil assembly 20 and the cartridge assembly 22 for movement between the unclamped position and the clamped position and for coupling the tool assembly 16 to the elongate body 14 for articulation about the articulation axis “Y”. In some examples, the anvil assembly 20 and the cartridge assembly 22 are coupled to the mounting assembly 24 by screws or pins 25 (FIG. 3). The mounting assembly 24 can be formed from mounting members 24a, 24b (FIG. 3) that are coupled together with rivets, screws, pins, adhesives, welding, or the like. In examples, the mounting assembly 24 is fixedly coupled to the anvil 20 and pivotably supports the cartridge assembly 22.

[0050] FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate the cartridge assembly 22 which includes a channel member 26 and a staple cartridge 28. The channel member 26 includes side walls 30 and a bottom wall 32 that define a cavity 34. In some examples, the staple cartridge 28 may be removably received within the cavity 34 of the channel member 26 and is replaceable to facilitate reuse of the staplingAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 device 10 after each firing of the stapling device 10. In other examples, the entire tool assembly 16 is removably attached to the shaft, and the tool assembly may be replaced rather than just the staple cartridge 28 itself.

[0051] Each of the side walls 30 of the channel member 26 has an upper end that defines a recess 36. The bottom wall 32 of the channel member 26 includes an internal wall portion 32a and an outer wall portion that define an internal channel 37 that extends from the proximal end of the channel member 26 towards the distal end of the channel member 26 along the longitudinal axis X of the channel member 26. The inner wall portion 32a of the bottom wall 32 defines an elongate slot (not shown) that communicates with the cavity 34 and the internal channel 37. The internal channel 37 and the elongate slot 37a receive a portion of a drive assembly 120 as described below.

[0052] The example staple cartridge 28 includes a cartridge body 38 (FIG. 3), an actuation sled 52, knife assembly 54, staples 42, pushers 44, and a staple guard 46. The cartridge body 38 defines a knife slot 48 and staple receiving pockets 50 that are positioned on each side of the knife slot 48. The staple receiving pockets 50 may be aligned in two or more rows on opposite sides of the knife slot 48. The knife slot 48 is longitudinally aligned with the elongate slot 37a in the channel member 26.

[0053] The cartridge body 38 includes laterally extending protrusions 51 (one is shown) that are received within the recesses 36 (FIG. 2) of the channel member 26 to properly position the staple cartridge 28 within the cavity 34 of the channel member 26. The staples 42 and the pushers 44 are received within the staple receiving pockets 50 of the cartridge body 38, and the staple guard 46 is secured to the bottom of the cartridge body 38 to retain the staples 42 and pushers 44 within the cartridge body 38. The staple guard 46 also includes a bottom wall that defines an elongate slot 46a that is aligned with the elongate slot 37a and knife slot 48 defined in the channel member 26 and the cartridge body 38, respectively.

[0054] The actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 are received within and are movable through the cartridge body 38 from a sled retracted position to a sled advanced position. The actuation sled 52 includes angled inner and outer cam members 52a, 52b (FIG. 3) that have angled cam surfaces that are positioned to sequentially engage the pushers 44 as the actuation sled 52 moves through the cartridge body 38 from the sled retracted position towards the sled advanced position to lift the pushers 44 within the staple receiving pockets 50 and eject the staples 42 fromAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 the cartridge body 38. The knife assembly 54 is supported on the actuation sled 52 as described below.

[0055] The drive assembly 120 is movable through the tool assembly 16 from a drive retracted position, through a drive clamped position, to a drive advanced position. Movement of the driver assembly 120 advances the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 through the cartridge body 38 from a sled retracted position to a sled advanced position. In the drive clamped position, a working member 124 is advanced to a position to move the tool assembly 16 from the unclamped position to the clamped position while the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 remains in the sled retracted position.

[0056] The working member 124 may include a substantially vertical strut 130, that includes a first flange 126 on the anvil-side of the strut 130 (e.g., the side of the strut closest the anvil 20) and a second flange 128 on the cartridge-side of the strut 130 (e.g., the side closest the cartridge assembly and opposite the anvil-side of the strut 130). When the drive assembly 120 moves from the drive retracted position to the drive clamped position, the first flange 126 engages the anvil 20 and the second flange 128 is received within the internal channel 37 (FIG. 4) of the channel member 26 to move the tool assembly 16 from the unclamped position to the clamped position.

[0057] As the drive assembly 120 moves through the tool assembly 16 from the drive clamped position to the drive advanced position, the working member 124 of the drive assembly 120 initially engages the knife 90 of the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 to move the knife 90 from the non-deployed position to the deployed position and subsequently engage the actuation sled 52 to move the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 from the sled retracted position to the sled advanced position.

[0058] As the drive assembly 120 moves from the drive clamped position towards the drive advanced position, the first flange 126 of the working member 124 remains engaged with the anvil 20 and the second flange 128 of the working member 124 moves through the internal channel 37 of the channel member 26. When in the respective channels, the working member 124 thus prevents outward movement of the anvil 20 and the cartridge assembly 22 in relation to each other. The advancement of the working member 124 also limits the size of the tissue gap between the anvil 20 and the cartridge assembly 22.

[0059] In the example depicted, when the drive assembly 120 moves from the drive clamped position towards the drive advanced position in the direction, the strut 130 of the working memberAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01124 engages the knife 90 to pivot the knife 90 from the non-deployed position to the deployed position. The cam surface 134 of the strut 130 and knife 90 may define curved engagement surfaces. When the knife 90 is in the deployed position, knife 90 is received within the recess 132 defined in the strut 130 and knife 90 extends across the tissue gap defined between the anvil 20 and the cartridge assembly 22.

[0060] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of stapling device 10 showing bottom wall 32 of channel member 26, a lockout member 501 (e.g., including a leg portion 504 of lockout member 501 extending to or below bottom wall 32 of channel member 26), and the working member 124. If knife 90 is not present in stapling device 10 and when stapling device 10 is fired, working member 124 pushes lockout member 501 distally and leg portion 504 contacts bottom wall 32 of channel member 26 at contact area “C” This prevents the further advancement of working member 124, sled 52, and lockout member 501, and stops firing.

[0061] In the example depicted, a lockout slot 33 is formed in the channel member 26 of the cartridge assembly 22 (e.g., in the bottom wall 32 of the cartridge assembly 22). The lockout slot 33 allows the leg portion 504 of the lockout member 501 to traverse distally to the clamped position. However, further advancement of the lockout member 501 (and the working member 124) beyond the clamped position is prevented by the distal end of the lockout slot 33, which is hard stop at the contact area C, unless the leg portion 504 of the lockout member 501 is rotated inwards, as discussed further herein.

[0062] FIGs. 6-8 illustrate tool assembly 16 as the stapling device 10 is fired and when knife 90 is present. FIGs. 6-8 generally illustrate three stages of progression (FIGs. 6, 7, and 8, respectively) of firing stapling device 10.

[0063] FIG. 6 illustrates stapling device 10 with jaws (e.g., anvil 20 and cartridge assembly 22)) of stapling device 10 in an unclamped position. Knife 90 is disposed outside of recess 132 and lockout member 501 is disposed outside of or substantially adjacent to bottom wall 32 of channel member 26. Working member 124 is in a pre- fired position, and remains in a proximal, unfired and unclamped position. When the stapling device 10 is fired and after stapling device 10 is clamped, the drive assembly 120 is advanced in the direction indicated by arrows “H” to advance strut 130 of the working member 124 into the proximal side of the knife 90 to pivot the knife 90 in the direction indicated by arrow “I” from the non-deployed position to the deployed position. When in the unclamped position, a biasing member 510 (e.g., a spring) biases the lockout memberAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01501 forward, which causes the leg portion 504 to rotate downward or outward into the locked position.

[0064] FIG. 7 illustrates stapling device 10 with jaws of stapling device 10 in a clamped position and with knife 90 received in recess 132. In this clamped position, the knife 90 contacts and pushes against a top portion 505 of lockout member 501. The contact of the proximal side of knife 90 with the distal side of the top portion 505 of the lockout member 501 causes the leg portion 504 to rotate inward and be disposed inside channel member 26.

[0065] For example, when the knife 90 moves to the deployed position, the knife 90 is received within the recess 132 defined in the vertical strut 130. A rear surface 91 (FIG. 7 and FIG. 29) of knife 90 contacts top portion 505 of lockout member 501, and lockout member 501 rotates and compresses the biasing member 510. The top portion 505 of the lockout member 501 is received in a recess 514 of the working member 124 (FIG. 11), and leg portion 504 rotates to be received within (e.g., fully within) channel member 26. The position of the leg portion 504 of the lockout member 501 within cavity to a point where the leg portion 504 will not contact the contact area C at the end the lockout slot 33 when traversed distally may be referred to as the unlocked position of the lockout member 501.

[0066] FIG. 8 illustrates stapling device 10 with jaws of stapling device 10 in a clamped position and being fired, with working member 124 advancing distally to push knife 90 and sled 52 distally to a firing position where the sled 52 contacts one or more pushers 44 to push staples 42 into tissue. Lockout member 501 remains in its unlocked position that is disposed above bottom wall 32 of channel member 26. As such, lockout member 501 is able to move forward through the cartridge assembly 22 and channel member 26 as illustrated. As the drive assembly 120 continues to move in the direction indicated by arrows “H” with the knife 90 is in the deployed position, the working member 124 advances the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 in the direction indicated by arrow “J”. As lockout member 501 is disposed above bottom wall 32 (e.g., within channel member 26), lockout member 501 advances past contact area “C” (FIG. 5) and firing completes.

[0067] FIGs. 9-10 illustrate tool assembly 16 as the stapling device 10 is attempted to be fired without knife 90. FIGs. 9 and 10 illustrate two stages of progression of attempting to fire stapling device 10.Attomev Docket No,: A0013071WQ01

[0068] In FIG. 9, the stapling device 10 is again in the clamped position, and the lockout member 501 is biased forwards by biasing member 510. However, since no knife 90 is present to contact top portion 505 of lockout member 501 and cause rotation of lockout member 501 as described previously, lockout member 501 simply stays in its position with leg portion 504 disposed at least partially outside of channel member 26 in the locked position.

[0069] As illustrated in FIG. 10, as working member 124 moves forwards and pushes lockout member 501 forwards, leg portion 504 contacts bottom wall 32 of channel member 26 at contact area “C”, stopping further advancement of working member 124 or drive assembly 120 and stopping firing of stapling device 10. Stapling device 10 can be reset by retracting working member 124 back to its pre-clamped position and replace the tool assembly 16 to one with a different tool assembly 16 that is properly assembled with a knife 90.

[0070] As discussed above and shown in FIG. 5, when the leg portion 504 contacts the end the lockout slot 33 at contact area C, visual feedback is provided to the clinician because the leg portion 504 can be seen from outside the tool assembly 16 (e.g., on the exterior of the cartridge assembly 22). For instance, upon receiving resistance to advancing the drive assembly 120, the clinician can inspect the exterior and see that the leg portion 504 of the lockout member 501 has reached the end of the lockout slot 33 and remains in the locked position.

[0071] FIG. 11 depicts a perspective, exploded view of the working member 124 and the lockout member 501. FIGs. 12 and 13 depict different perspective views of the working member 124 and the lockout member 501 in their assembled state. FIGs. 12-20 depict different views of the working member 124 alone. FIGs. 11-20 are discussed together below.

[0072] As illustrated in FIGs. 11-20, the working member 124 of the drive assembly 120 may have an I-beam configuration that includes a first flange 126, a second flange 128, and a strut 130 (e.g., a vertical strut) that secures the first flange 126 to the second flange 128 at a fixed distance from each other. The first flange 126 may be substantially parallel to the second flange 128. The first flange 126 and the second flange 128 may be substantially perpendicular to the strut 130. The first flange 126 is on the anvil side (e.g., upper side) and the second flange 128 is the on the cartridge side (e.g., lower side).

[0073] The strut 130 defines a knife-receiving recess 132 and includes a cam surface 134 that curves both rearwardly (proximally) and upwardly (outwardly) towards the first flange 126 in the proximal direction. The recess 132 receives the knife 90 when the knife 90 moves from the non-Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 deployed position to the deployed position. In the example depicted, the recess 132 is defined by the cam surface 134, the first flange 126, and a strut wall 133 that is formed by a portion of the strut 130. Thus, one lateral side of the recess may be open as well as the distal / front side of the recess.

[0074] Working member 124 includes, in addition to knife-receiving recess 132, a lockout recess 502 configured to receive a portion of the lockout member 501. For example, working member 124 may receive at least a portion of body portion 503 of lockout member 501 within the lockout recess 502. The lockout recess 502 is formed into the strut 130 below the knife-receiving recess 132 (e.g., closer to or towards the second flange 128). The lockout recess 502 may be considered a partial cutout of the strut 130 where a lockout-retention segment 507 of the strut 130 remains. Due to the presence of the lockout recess 502, the lockout-retention segment 507 has a thickness that is less than the maximum or average width of the strut 130 (e.g., 40%-60% of the maximum width of the strut 130). The recess 502 may also be shaped to substantially match the body portion 503 of the lockout member 501. For instance, the proximal side of the recess 502 defined by the strut 130 may have a rounded or semi-circular shape.

[0075] The strut 130 further includes a through-hole 509, which may be defined in the lockout-retention segment 507 of the strut. The protrusion 506 of the lockout member 501 is configured to fit into through-hole 509. Through-hole 509 may be a substantially circular hole extending transversely across working member 124. As such, lockout member 501 may be able to rotate with respect to working member 124 due to the protrusion 506 rotating within the through- hole 509. For example, when through-hole 509 receives protrusion 506, protrusion 506 rotates within through-hole 509. The protrusion 506 rotates about a rotation axis that is parallel to a Z- axis, which may be substantially perpendicular to right strut surface 513, the X-axis, and the Y- axis. The curved profile of body portion 503 may be able to rotate within lockout recess 502. In some examples, the through-hole 509 may be in the form of a recess that does not extend all the way through the strut 130. Thus, the strut 130 defines a protrusion-receiving element either in the form of the through-hole 509 or a recess that receives the protrusion 506 of the lockout member 501.

[0076] In some examples, the width (e.g., thickness) of lockout member 501 from left lockout surface 508 to right lockout surface 511 is substantially equal to or less than the width (e.g., thickness) of strut 130 from left strut surface 512 to right strut surface 513. In some examples,Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 right strut surface 513 may be substantially coplanar with a right lockout surface 511 of the right lockout surface 511 when lockout member 501 is supported in working member 124.

[0077] In the example depicted, the strut 130 also defines a spring-receiving recess 517 on the distal side of the strut 130. The spring-receiving recess 517 protrudes proximally (e.g., rewards) and is sized to receive biasing member 510. The biasing member 510 may be coupled to or in contact with working member 124 and lockout member 501. For example, biasing member 510 may be at least partially disposed within the spring-receiving recess 517 of working member 124. Biasing member 510 may be configured to bias top portion 505 of lockout member 501 distally. In some examples, biasing member 510 is a compression spring.

[0078] FIGs. 21-27 depict different views of the lockout member 501 alone. FIGs. 21-27 are discussed together below. In the examples illustrated in FIGs. 21-27, lockout member 501 includes body portion 503, leg portion 504, top portion 505, and protrusion 506. Body portion 503, leg portion 504, top portion 505, and protrusion 506 may form a single integral part. The body portion 503 may include a curved profile designed to fit into, and rotate within, recess 502 of working member 124.

[0079] Leg portion 504 is adjacent to body portion 503. In some examples, leg portion 504 may be visible from outside of stapling device 10 (as shown in FIG. 5) (e.g., when viewing along axis X when the jaws are closed). For example, leg portion 504 may at least partially extend outside of bottom wall 32 of channel member 26 when lockout member 501 is in the locked position. The leg portion 504 extends both downwardly (e.g., outwardly) toward the second flange 128 (when assembled with the working member 124) from the body portion 503.

[0080] The top portion 505 extends from upwardly (e.g., inwardly) toward the first flange 126 (when assembled with the working member 124) from the body portion 503. The proximal side of the top portion 505 is biased forward by the biasing member 510. The distal side of the top portion 505 is configured to contact the knife assembly to push the top portion 505 distally.

[0081] Protrusion 506 extends transversely from body portion 503. The protrusion 506 is disposed proximally relative to the leg portion 504 and the top portion 505 when lockout member 501 is positioned in working member 124 and in tool assembly 16. The protrusion 506 may include a substantially cylindrical body. When viewing lockout member 501 in a distal direction, as shown in FIG. 25, the protrusion 506 extends to the left or sinisterly. For example, the protrusion 506 extends perpendicularly from a body surface 515 of the body portion 503. In some examples, theAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 protrusion 506 may intersect a plane defined by left lockout surface 508. The protrusion 506 may include left protrusion surface 516 at the terminus of the protrusion 506. Left protrusion surface 516 may be substantially coplanar to left lockout surface 508 when lockout member is supported in working member 124.

[0082] In some examples, the biasing member 510 may be a wire spring rather than the compression spring shown in the examples described above. FIGs. 28-31 depict another configuration of the lockout member and the working member where a wire spring is used to bias the lockout member.

[0083] Referring to FIGs. 28-31, a wire spring 2801 may be configured to bias lockout member2804 forwards. Lockout member 2804 may include one or more similar features as lockout member 2804, with differences described herein. When knife 90 contacts top portion 2805 of lockout member 2804, lockout member 2804 rotates as described previously, and wire spring 2801 is compressed and / or bent upwards. Lockout member 2804 may include slot 2802 within which wire spring 2801 is disposed. Slot 2802 may be disposed on the right or dexter side of lockout member 2804. Slot 2802 may be disposed substantially adjacent to top portion 2805 and body portion 503 of lockout member 2804. Slot 2802 may extend horizontally across lockout member 2804. Slot 2802 may be a recess disposed on right lockout surface 2809.

[0084] Wire spring 2801 may extend from slot 2802 of lockout member 2804 to be fixedly attached to working member 2808. For example, working member 2808 may include slot 2803 disposed on right strut surface 2810. Slot 2803 may be a recess defined on right strut surface 2810. Wire spring 2801 may be disposed in slot 2803 and extend to a rear surface 2806 of working member 2808 where wire spring 2801 may be fixedly attached to working member 2808.

[0085] FIGs. 28-30 illustrate a progression of the tool assembly 16 as the stapling device 10 is fired and when knife 90 is present. FIG. 28 depicts the tool assembly 16 when in a clamped position prior to the lockout member 2804 engaging or contacting the knife 90 (e.g., the lockout member is in the locked position). FIG. 29 depicts the tool assembly 16 as the lockout member engages the knife 90, which causes the lockout member 2804 to rotate into the unlocked position. FIG. 30 depicts the tool assembly 16 as the lockout member and working member 2808 continue with in the firing process and move further distally in the unlocked position.

[0086] As more detail, when the stapling device 10 is fired, the drive assembly 120 is advanced in the direction indicated by arrows “H” to advance strut of the working member 2808 into theAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 proximal side of the knife 90 to pivot the knife 90 in the direction indicated by arrow “I” from the non-deployed position to the deployed position. When the knife 90 moves to the deployed position, the knife 90 is received within the recess defined in the vertical strut. A rear surface 91 of knife 90 contacts top portion 2805 of lockout member 2804, and lockout member 2804 rotates and compresses wire spring 2801. Top portion 2805 is received in recess 514, and leg portion 2807 rotates to be received within channel member 26. As such, lockout member 2804 is disposed above bottom wall 32 of channel member 26 and is able to move forward through channel member 26. As the drive assembly 120 continues to move in the direction indicated by arrows “H” with the knife 90 is in the deployed position, the working member 2808 advances the actuation sled 52 and knife assembly 54 in the direction indicated by arrow “J”.

[0087] FIG. 31 illustrates tool assembly 16 as the stapling device 10 is attempted to be fired and when knife 90 is not present. In this example, lockout member 2804 is biased forwards by wire spring 2801. However, since no knife 90 is present to contact top portion 2805 of lockout member 2804 and cause rotation of lockout member 2804 as described previously, lockout member 2804 simply stays in its locked position with leg portion 2807 disposed at least partially outside of channel member 26. As working member 2808 moves forwards and pushes lockout member 2804 forwards, leg portion 2807 contacts bottom wall 32 of channel member 26, stopping further advancement of working member 124 and stopping firing of stapling device 10.

[0088] In some other examples, working member 2808 or 124 may include a knife as a single integral part with working member 2808 or 124, for example, disposed within recess 132 of working member 2808 or 124. In such examples, a separate knife 90 may not be needed, and instead, working member 2808 or 124 may push against actuation sled 52 when stapling device 10 is fired. Lockout member 2804 or 501 may be configured to contact actuation sled 52 and thus rotate as previously described such that leg portion 2807 or 504 is disposed within channel member 26. Working member 2808 or 124 is then able to move forward and push actuation sled 52 to push staples 42 upwards. For example, top portion 2805 or 505 of lockout member 2804 or 501 may contact actuation sled 52. However, when actuation sled 52 is not present, lockout member 2804 or 501 may remain in position with leg portion 2807 or 504 extending outside of channel member 26. As such, bottom wall 32 of channel member 26 may act as a stop to prevent lockout member 2804 or 501, and thus working member 2808 or 124, from moving forward and completing the firing of stapling device 10.Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01

[0089] As should be appreciated from the foregoing, the technology disclosed herein relates to various aspects of a surgical stapling device with a lockout member. In an aspect, the technology relates to a surgical stapling device. The surgical stapling device includes a cartridge assembly including a channel member that defines an external lockout slot, and a knife. The surgical stapling device further includes a working member comprising a strut that pushes the knife distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member supported on the strut. The lockout member includes a body portion coupled to the strut; and a leg portion extending from the body portion, wherein the lockout member is movable, from a locked position to an unlocked position, via rotation of the lockout member.

[0090] In an example, the strut further defines a lockout recess that receives at least a portion of the body portion of the lockout member. In a further example, the body portion rotates relative to the strut to transition between the locked position and the unlocked position. In another example, the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and wherein the surgical stapling device further comprises a biasing member coupled to the working member and in contact with a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member distally. In still another example, at least a portion of the biasing member is disposed in a spring-receiving recess defined in the strut. In yet another example, in the locked position, the leg portion extends through the external lockout slot; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion is received within the channel member. In still yet another example, the working member further includes a first flange attached to the strut on an anvil-side of the strut, wherein the first flange travels through a channel defined within an anvil assembly; and a second flange attached to the strut on a cartridge-side of the strut, wherein the second flange travels through an internal channel of the channel member.

[0091] In another example, the body portion comprises a protrusion that is received in a protrusion receiving element defined in the strut of the working member. In yet another example, the leg portion extends outward from the channel member when the lockout member is in the locked position. In still another example, the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and the leg portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from an anvil-side of the strut; and the top portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from a cartridge-side of the strut. In still yetAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 another example the knife is supported on an actuation sled, and the knife is pivotally movable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position.

[0092] In another example, the strut further defines a knife-receiving recess that receives a portion of the knife when the strut contacts the knife. In still another example, the lockout member is a single integral part.

[0093] In another aspect, the technology relates to a surgical stapling device that includes an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly coupled to the anvil assembly to facilitate movement of the surgical stapling device from an unclamped position to a clamped position. The cartridge assembly includes a lockout slot with a distal end and a knife. The surgical stapling device further includes a strut that pushes the knife distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member rotatably supported on the strut. The lockout member includes a body portion; a leg portion extending from the body portion; and a top portion extending from the body portion. The lockout member rotates, upon the top portion contacting the knife, from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the locked position, the leg portion contacts the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of strut during distal movement of the working member; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion does not contact the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of the working member.

[0094] In an example, the rotation from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the leg portion to move inwardly into the cartridge assembly. In another example, the lockout slot is externally visible. In still another example, the surgical stapling device further includes a biasing member coupled to the strut and in contact with a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member distally. In yet another example, the body portion further includes a protrusion that is received in a through-hole in the strut.

[0095] In another aspect, the technology relates to a surgical stapling device that includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly coupled to the anvil assembly to facilitate movement of the surgical stapling device from an unclamped position to a clamped position. The cartridge assembly includes a channel member that defines an internal channel and an external lockout slot with a distal end; and a staple cartridge coupled to the channel member. The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body that defines a knife slot and staple receiving pockets positioned on sides of the knife slot; a plurality of staples disposed in the cartridge body; a plurality of pushers configured to push the plurality of staples, wherein the plurality of pushers and the plurality ofAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 staples are received within the staple receiving pockets. The stapling device further includes actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers, and a knife supported on the actuation sled, wherein the knife is pivotally movable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position. The stapling device also includes a strut configured to push the knife distally, the strut defining: a lockout recess; a spring-receiving recess; and a through-hole defined in the lockout recess. The stapling device further includes a lockout member supported on the strut, the lockout member includes a body portion disposed in the lockout recess of the strut; a protrusion extending transversely from the body portion and through the through-hole of the strut; a leg portion extending from the body portion; and a top portion extending from the body portion. The lockout member rotates, upon the top portion contacting the knife, about the protrusion from a locked position to an unlocked position. In the locked position, the leg portion contacts the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of strut; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion does not contact the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of the strut. The stapling device further includes a spring, disposed in the spring-receiving recess of the strut, contacting a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member towards the locked position.

[0096] In an example, the lockout member is a single integral part; the leg portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from an anvil-side of the strut; and the top portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from a cartridge-side of the strut.

[0097] Persons skilled in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary aspects of the disclosure. It is envisioned that the elements and features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the elements and features of another without departing from the scope of the disclosure. Also, one skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the disclosure based on the above-described aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, the disclosure is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims.

[0098] Further, as used herein and in the claims, the phrase “at least one of element A, element B, or element C” is intended to convey any of: element A, element B, element C, elements A and B, elements A and C, elements B and C, and elements A, B, and C. In addition, one having skillAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 in the art will understand the degree to which terms such as “about” or “substantially” convey in light of the measurements techniques utilized herein. To the extent such terms may not be clearly defined or understood by one having skill in the art, the terms “about” and “substantially” shall mean plus or minus ten percent or, if in relation to an angle, plus or minus ten degrees.

[0099] Numerous other changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the disclosure and as defined in the appended claims. While various aspects have been described for purposes of this disclosure, various changes and modifications may be made which are well within the scope of the disclosure. Numerous other changes may be made which will readily suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and which are encompassed in the spirit of the disclosure and as defined in the claims.

[0100] The following examples are illustrative of the techniques described herein.

[0101] Example 1. A surgical stapling device, comprising: a cartridge assembly comprising: a channel member that defines an external lockout slot, and a knife; a working member comprising a strut that pushes the knife distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member supported on the strut, the lockout member comprising: a body portion coupled to the strut; and a leg portion extending from the body portion, wherein the lockout member is movable, from a locked position to an unlocked position, via rotation of the lockout member.

[0102] Example 2. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the strut further defines a lockout recess that receives at least a portion of the body portion of the lockout member.

[0103] Example 3. The surgical stapling device of example 2, wherein the body portion rotates relative to the strut to transition between the locked position and the unlocked position.

[0104] Example 4. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and wherein the surgical stapling device further comprises a biasing member coupled to the working member and in contact with a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member distally.

[0105] Example 5. The surgical stapling device of example 4, wherein at least a portion of the biasing member is disposed in a spring-receiving recess defined in the strut.

[0106] Example 6. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein: in the locked position, the leg portion extends through the external lockout slot; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion is received within the channel member.Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01

[0107] Example 7. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the working member further comprises: a first flange attached to the strut on an anvil-side of the strut, wherein the first flange travels through a channel defined within an anvil assembly; and a second flange attached to the strut on a cartridge-side of the strut, wherein the second flange travels through an internal channel of the channel member.

[0108] Example 8. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the body portion comprises a protrusion that is received in a protrusion receiving element defined in the strut of the working member.

[0109] Example 9. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the leg portion extends outward from the channel member when the lockout member is in the locked position.

[0110] Example 10. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and wherein: the leg portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from an anvil-side of the strut; and the top portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from a cartridge-side of the strut.

[0111] Example 11. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the knife is supported on an actuation sled, and the knife is pivotally movable between a non-deploy ed position and a deployed position.

[0112] Example 12. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the strut further defines a knife-receiving recess that receives a portion of the knife when the strut contacts the knife.

[0113] Example 13. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the lockout member is a single integral part.

[0114] Example 14. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly coupled to the anvil assembly to facilitate movement of the surgical stapling device from an unclamped position to a clamped position, the cartridge assembly comprising: a lockout slot with a distal end; and a knife; a strut that pushes the knife distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member rotatably supported on the strut, the lockout member comprising: a body portion; a leg portion extending from the body portion; and a top portion extending from the body portion; wherein the lockout member rotates, upon the top portion contacting the knife, from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein: in the lockedAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 position, the leg portion contacts the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of strut during distal movement of the working member; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion does not contact the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of the working member.

[0115] Example 15. The surgical stapling device of example 14, where the rotation from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the leg portion to move inwardly into the cartridge assembly.

[0116] Example 16. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the lockout slot is externally visible.

[0117] Example 17. The surgical stapling device of example 14, further comprising a biasing member coupled to the strut and in contact with a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member distally.

[0118] Example 18. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the body portion further includes a protrusion that is received in a through-hole in the strut.

[0119] Example 19. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly coupled to the anvil assembly to facilitate movement of the surgical stapling device from an unclamped position to a clamped position, the cartridge assembly comprising: a channel member that defines an internal channel and an external lockout slot with a distal end; and a staple cartridge coupled to the channel member, the staple cartridge comprising: a cartridge body that defines a knife slot and staple receiving pockets positioned on sides of the knife slot; a plurality of staples disposed in the cartridge body; and a plurality of pushers configured to push the plurality of staples, wherein the plurality of pushers and the plurality of staples are received within the staple receiving pockets; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a knife supported on the actuation sled, wherein the knife is pivotally movable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position; a strut configured to push the knife distally, the strut defining: a lockout recess; a spring-receiving recess; and a through-hole defined in the lockout recess; a lockout member supported on the strut, the lockout member comprising: a body portion disposed in the lockout recess of the strut; a protrusion extending transversely from the body portion and through the through-hole of the strut; a leg portion extending from the body portion; and a top portion extending from the body portion; wherein the lockout member rotates, upon the top portion contacting the knife, about the protrusion from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein: in the locked position, the leg portion contacts the distal end of the lockout slot during distalAttorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 movement of strut; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion does not contact the distal end of the lockout slot during distal movement of the strut; and a spring, disposed in the spring-receiving recess of the strut, contacting a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member towards the locked position.

[0120] Example 20. The surgical stapling device of example 19, wherein: the lockout member is a single integral part; the leg portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from an anvil-side of the strut; and the top portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from a cartridge-side of the strut.

Claims

Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A surgical stapling device, comprising: a cartridge assembly (22) comprising: a channel member (26) that defines an external lockout slot, and a knife (90); a working member (124) comprising a strut (130) that pushes the knife (90) distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member (501) supported on the strut (130), the lockout member (501) comprising: a body portion (503) coupled to the strut (130); and a leg portion (504) extending from the body portion, wherein the lockout member (501) is movable, from a locked position to an unlocked position, via rotation of the lockout member (501).

2. The surgical stapling device of claim 1 , wherein the strut further defines a lockout recess that receives at least a portion of the body portion of the lockout member.

3. The surgical stapling device of claim 2, wherein the body portion rotates relative to the strut to transition between the locked position and the unlocked position.

4. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and wherein the surgical stapling device further comprises a biasing member coupled to the working member and in contact with a proximal side of the top portion of the lockout member to bias the lockout member distally.

5. The surgical stapling device of claim 4, wherein at least a portion of the biasing member is disposed in a spring-receiving recess defined in the strut.

6. The surgical stapling device of claim 1 , wherein: in the locked position, the leg portion extends through the external lockout slot; and in the unlocked position, the leg portion is received within the channel member.Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ017. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the working member further comprises: a first flange attached to the strut on an anvil-side of the strut, wherein the first flange travels through a channel defined within an anvil assembly; and a second flange attached to the strut on a cartridge-side of the strut, wherein the second flange travels through an internal channel of the channel member.

8. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the body portion comprises a protrusion that is received in a protrusion receiving element defined in the strut of the working member.

9. The surgical stapling device of claim 1 , wherein the leg portion extends outward from the channel member when the lockout member is in the locked position.

10. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the lockout member further comprises a top portion extending from the body portion, and wherein: the leg portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from an anvil-side of the strut; and the top portion extends, from the body portion in the locked position, distally and away from a cartridge-side of the strut.

11. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the knife is supported on an actuation sled, and the knife is pivotally movable between a non-deployed position and a deployed position.

12. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the strut further defines a knifereceiving recess that receives a portion of the knife when the strut contacts the knife.

13. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the lockout member is a single integral part.

14. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly (20);Attorney Docket No,: A0013071WQ01 a cartridge assembly (22) coupled to the anvil assembly (20) to facilitate movement of the surgical stapling device from an unclamped position to a clamped position, the cartridge assembly (22) comprising: a lockout slot (33) with a distal end; and a knife (90); a strut (130) that pushes the knife (90) distally during firing of the stapling device; and a lockout member (501) rotatably supported on the strut (130), the lockout member (501) comprising: a body portion (503); a leg portion (504) extending from the body portion; and a top portion (505) extending from the body portion; wherein the lockout member (501) rotates, upon the top portion contacting the knife (90), from a locked position to an unlocked position, wherein: in the locked position, the leg portion (504) contacts the distal end of the lockout slot (33) during distal movement of strut (130); and in the unlocked position, the leg portion (504) does not contact the distal end of the lockout slot (33) during distal movement of the strut (130).

15. The surgical stapling device of claim 14, where the rotation from the locked position to the unlocked position causes the leg portion to move inwardly into the cartridge assembly.

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