Grounded sled with separate compressible member for stapling device

Abstract

A surgical stapling device includes a tool assembly including an anvil assembly, a cartridge assembly, and a drive assembly. The drive assembly includes a working member that moves forward to push an actuation sled of the cartridge assembly forward to push staple pushers upwards, pushing staples into tissue located above the cartridge assembly. The actuation sled may be grounded or supported by a channel member of the cartridge assembly or the working member. When the actuation sled experiences forces exerted by the staple pushers onto the actuation sled during firing of the stapling device, such forces are directed towards the channel member or the working member via a separate compression member instead of towards a tissue gap compression member.

Description

PATENT APPLICATION Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01 GROUNDED SLED WITH SEPARATE COMPRESSIBLE MEMBER FOR STAPLING DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 778,800, filed March 27, 2025, 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] In an aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly, the cartridge assembly comprising: a channel member that defines an internal channel; a plurality of staple pushers configured to push staples towards the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of staple pushers; a tissuegap compression member coupled to the channel member; and a sled-coupled compressionAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with a bottom channel wall of the channel member.

[0005] In another aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a 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 pushers configured to push staples; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled actuation sled and positioned between a bottom surface of the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces when the actuation sled pushes the plurality of pushers; and a working member that pushes the actuation sled and the sled-coupled compressible member distally during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0006] In another aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body and 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 of staples are received within the staple receiving pockets; a tissue-gap compression member coupled to the bottom wall of the channel, wherein the tissue-gap compression member is configured to compress based on a thickness of tissue clamped between the staple cartridge and the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces from the actuation sled when the actuation sled pushes the pushers; and a working member that pushes the sled support component distally, which pushes the actuation sled distally, during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0007] 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 DRAWINGSAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0008] 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.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical stapling device with an indicated tool assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the tool assembly as shown in FIG. 1.

[0011] FIG. 3A is a perspective exploded view of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0012] FIGs. 3B and 3C are perspective views of a channel member of FIG. 3A and a tissue gap compression member disposed thereon, and a portion of the tissue gap compression member, respectively.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a channel member of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a cartridge assembly of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2 with a separate compression member uncompressed.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the cartridge assembly of the tool assembly shown in FIG. 2 with the separate compression member compressed.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an actuation sled of the cartridge assembly shown in FIG. 2.

[0017] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the actuation sled and a sled support component.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the sled support component.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative actuation sled.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a bottom perspective view of the actuation sled.

[0021] FIGs. 12A and 12B are perspective views of a separate compressible member, specifically, a uniform rectangular spring.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a hollow tube spring.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a hollow lofted tube spring.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a canted spring.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0025] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a disc washer spring.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, an oval split spring.

[0027] FIG. 18 is another perspective view of the oval split spring.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a C-spring.

[0029] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 12 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0030] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 13 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0031] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 14 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0032] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 15 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0033] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 16 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0034] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 17 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0035] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the separate compressible member of FIG. 19 with a sled support component and an actuation sled.

[0036] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a separate compressible member, specifically, a keel.

[0037] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a working member from FIGs. 3A, 5, and 6.

[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.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[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] 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 an actuation sled is concurrently translated forward along with the knife. The actuation 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.

[0041] Some surgical stapling devices use adaptive tissue gap technologies. With adaptive tissue gap technology, the gap between the cartridge and anvil changes to accommodate different tissue thicknesses. One example of an adaptive tissue gap technology uses a floating cartridge concept where the cartridge, or a portion thereof, effectively floats on a spring or other compressible member(s). Some examples are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 11,806,014, titled Surgical Stapling Device with Floating Staple Cartridge, and International Patent Publication WO 2024 / 092093 Al, titled Surgical Stapling Device with Tissue Gap Control, both of which are incorporated herein in their entireties. To the extent those disclosures conflict with this present application, this application shall control. In those examples, the compressible members allow the staple cartridge to move or float in relation to the anvil assembly of the tool assembly to accommodate tissues of different thicknesses.

[0042] In such examples where the staple cartridge moves to adapt to tissue gap technologies, force exerted when actually firing the stapling device may cause undesirable effects in some instances. For example, thicker tissues cause greater forces on the cartridge and the cartridge moves down to accommodate a larger gap, as intended by the floating cartridge technology. When the stapling device is fired, the actuation sled interacts with the pushers to push the staples through the tissue and into the anvil. The forces of this staple firing, however, may cause the actuation sled to further compress the compress the compressible member. In some cases, these stapling forces cause the compressible member to fully compress. This additional compression duringAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01firing may be undesired as the intent of the floating cartridge is to adapt for tissue gap differences — not stapling firing forces.

[0043] The technology disclosed herein addresses, among other things, the above issues by introducing a grounded actuation sled with a separate, sled-coupled compressible member for the actuation sled. The grounded actuation sled is biased upwards (e.g., inwards) by the sled-coupled compressible member, and the actuation sled is able to be moved downwards via compression of the separate compressible member due to forces exerted by, for example, the pushers, during staple firing. This allows for the actuation sled to “move with” the pushers such that when the pushers are fired, such force is redirected to the sled-coupled compressible member rather than the tissuegap compressible member.

[0044] In some examples, the device includes a sled support component with a sled-coupled compressible member disposed at least partially underneath the actuation sled. The sled-coupled compressible member may be grounded or in contact with a channel member of a cartridge assembly of the surgical stapler. The sled-coupled compressible member sets the vertical position of the actuation sled with respect to the channel member, and thus the tissue-gap compressible member is able to remain at rest or otherwise be unaffected by the forces exerted by the staple pushers.

[0045] The sled-coupled compressible member may take various forms and be attached to the sled support component in various ways. For example, the sled-coupled compressible member may include one or more springs, one or more hollow lofted tube springs, one or more canted springs, one or more disc washer springs, one or more C-springs, a rubber / elastic material, or other compressible configurations..

[0046] More specifically, examples of the technology disclosed herein includes a sled support component 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 cartridge assembly includes an actuation sled that supports the sled support component. The actuation sled is movable from a proximal to a distal position upon firing of the stapling device (e.g., a working member of the drive assembly pushes the actuation sled distally). The actuation sled is grounded to the channel member. The sled support component may be formed with the actuation sled as a single integral part, or the sled support component may be a separate part from the actuation sled. A sled-coupled compressible member may be attached to the sled support component below the actuation sled,Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01and the sled-coupled compressible member may be in contact with the channel member (e.g., bottom channel wall).

[0047] 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. 1-4 are discussed concurrently below.

[0048] 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. The distal and proximal directions generally are in a direction of a longitudinal X axis, as shown in FIG. 1 and discussed further below. 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. Additionally, the term “vertical” may refer to directions oriented along the Y axis, that is orthogonal to the X axis (FIG. 1). Reference to “up” may refer to a direction along axis Y that is upwards of a clinician during use of the device in its upright position, and “down” directions may refer to a direction along axis Y that is downwards of a clinician during use of the device in its upright position.

[0049] 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. For example, “upper” may refer to a more positive Y axis direction in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, and “lower” may refer to a more negative Y axis direction in the orientation shown in FIG. 1. 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 X axis as illustrated in FIG. 1 (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 X axis (e.g., closer to an outermost point).Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0050] In the depicted example, 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. Actuation buttons 19 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, 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] 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. 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.

[0053] 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 channelAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01wall 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 stapling 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.

[0054] Each of the side walls 30 of the channel member 26 has an upper end that defines a recess 36. The bottom channel 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 channel wall 32 defines an elongate slot 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. In some examples, channel member 26 may include tissue-gap compression member 55 as illustrated. Tissue-gap compression member 55 as illustrated in FIG. 3A may be a simplified version of tissue gap compression member 55 as illustrated in FIGs. 3B and 3C. Either illustrated tissue gap compression member may be used in various examples.

[0055] Referring to FIGs. 3A, 3B, 3C, 5, and 6, tissue-gap compression member 55 may include proximal compression member end 303, compression member hook 301, distal compression member end 305, channel member hook recess 304, compression member slot 302, and compression member extensions 306A and 306B. Tissue-gap compression member 55 may be disposed in channel member 26. For example, tissue- gap compression member 55 may be disposed on bottom channel wall 32. In some examples, a distance between bottom channel wall 32 and an apex of a wave of tissue gap compression member 55 may be at least 0.020 inches. In some examples, tissue-gap compression member 55 may be referred to as a wave spring or wave spring. However, in other examples, the tissue-gap compression member 55 may be in a form other than a wave spring, such as one or more elongate compressible pads.

[0056] In some examples, tissue gap compression member 55 may be welded or otherwise attached or coupled to channel member 26 (e.g., to bottom channel wall 32) at proximal compression member end 303 of tissue gap compression member 55. Proximal compression member end 303 may be disposed proximal to handle assembly 12 as compared to the rest of tissue gap compression member 55.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0057] In some examples, compression member hook 301 may be disposed at distal compression member end 305, which may be opposite of proximal compression member end 305, and may be disposed distal to handle assembly 12 as compared to the rest of distal tissue gap compression member end 305. Compression member hook 301 may include a bent protrusion that wraps back around proximally and underneath tissue gap compression member 55.

[0058] Compression member hook 301 may be configured to hook into channel member hook recess 304. Channel member hook recess 304 may be disposed at a distal end of channel member 26. Channel member hook recess 304 may be disposed in bottom channel wall 32. Channel member hook recess 304 may extend through channel wall 32 so that compression member hook 301 is able to hook onto bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26. Channel member hook recess 304 may include additional clearance in the distal direction (e.g., several times the width of compression member hook 301) to allow the for compression member hook 301 to move distally within channel member hook recess 304.

[0059] Tissue-gap compression member 55 may include a compression member slot 302 that extends down the middle of at least a portion of (e.g., most) of the length of tissue-gap compression member 55, splitting a portion or majority of tissue gap compression member 55 into two halves (e.g., compression member extensions 306A and 306B).

[0060] Compression member extensions 306A and 306B may be separated by compression member slot 302. However, compression member extensions 306A and 306B may be joined at distal compression member end 305 as illustrated. Compression member extensions 306A and 306B may be separate from one another at proximal compression member end 303. In some examples, compression member extensions 306A and 306B may be wavy and may be able to flatten when compressed. As such, when tissue gap compression member 55 is compressed (e.g., due to thick tissue present in the jaws of stapling device 10), tissue gap compression member 55 may expand, lengthen, or stretch (e.g., distally).

[0061] In some examples, separate compression member 502 is disposed in between tissue gap compression member extensions 306A and 306B, that is, in compression member slot 302, and contacts a portion of bottom channel wall 32 that is in between (more central than) the portions of bottom channel wall 32 that are contacted by separate compression member 502.

[0062] The example staple cartridge 28 includes a cartridge body 38 (FIG. 3 A), an actuation sled 52, staples 42, pushers 44, and a staple guard 46. The cartridge body 38 defines a knife slotAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ0148 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 37 A in the channel member 26.

[0063] 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.

[0064] The actuation sled 52 is received within and is 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 fins 53A, 53B (FIG. 3) that have angled fin 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 from the cartridge body 38.

[0065] 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 drive assembly 120 advances the actuation sled 52 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 remains in the sled retracted position.

[0066] 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.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0067] 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 engages the actuation sled 52 to move the actuation sled 52 from the sled retracted position to the sled advanced position.

[0068] 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.

[0069] FIGs. 5 and 6 illustrate perspective views of stapling device 10 showing partial cross-sectional views of tool assembly 16 (e.g., specifically, cartridge assembly 22) including working member 124, actuation sled 52A, staple pushers 44, channel member 26, tissue gap compression member 55, cartridge body 38, sled support component 501, and separate compression member 502. Generally, FIGs. 5 and 6 illustrate the interactions between the aforementioned components during firing of stapling device 10. FIG. 5 illustrates a “minimum-gap” scenario with separate compression member 502 uncompressed, while FIG. 6 illustrates a “maximum-gap” scenario with separate compression member 502 at least partially compressed, as described further below. FIGs.5 and 6 illustrate staple pushers 44 as being disposed in an upwards position in cartridge body 38, as if actuation sled 52A had already pushed staple pushers 44 up towards anvil 20. In use, however, staple pushers 44 that are distal relative to actuation sled 52A are disposed at the bottom of cartridge body 38 (e.g., away from anvil 20).

[0070] As working member 124 advances forward during firing, working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52A forward. Fins 53A and 53B of actuation sled 52A push staple pushers 44 upwards as staple pushers 44 slide up fins 53A, 53B. When pushing staple pushers 44 upwards, force is also exerted onto actuation sled 52A downwards by the staple pushers 44. As described above, in some floating cartridge designs, this stapling force may cause actuation sled 52A to be displaced downwards and / or exert force onto a tissue-gap compression member 55 (e.g., a wave spring or compression strips), undesirably causing additional or full compression of the tissue gap compression member 55. The tissue gap compression member 55 is typically meant to compressAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01only to accommodate different tissue gap thicknesses, rather than from forces from staple pushers 44. For further description of the tissue gap compression member 55, International Patent Publication WO 2024 / 092093 Al, titled Surgical Stapling Device with Tissue Gap Control. (While the compression member 55 is depicted as a wave spring, in other examples the compression member 55 may be one or more compression strips, such as those discussed in U.S. Patent No.11,806,014, titled Surgical Stapling Device with Floating Staple Cartridge.)

[0071] In the currently disclosed technology, a separate, sled-coupled compressible member 502 prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member 55 by the actuation sled 52A. For instance, the separate compressible member 502 vertically supports actuation sled 52A such that when staple pushers 44 exert force onto actuation sled 52A, actuation sled 52A is correspondingly pushed downwards, compressing separate compressible member 502. As actuation sled 52A, and thus sled support component 501, is pushed forwards during firing, separate compressible member 502 maintains sled support component 501 and actuation sled 52A at a constant height or vertical position relative to channel member 26 or working member 124, where the height is set as a result of how much staple pushers 44 push down onto actuation sled 52A and thus compress separate compressible member 502.

[0072] In particular, FIG. 5 illustrates a minimum-gap scenario when a tissue gap compression member 55 is not compressed or minimally compressed (e.g., due to the tissue between the jaws of the surgical stapler being relatively thin), and thus cartridge assembly 22 is not displaced downwards, or remains in its vertical position. The “minimum gap” refers to the distance between the tissue contacting surface of anvil 20 and the tissue contacting surface 201 of staple cartridge 28 (FIG. 2), where the distance between the tissue contacting surface of anvil 20 and the tissue contacting surface 201 of staple cartridge 28 is minimal because the cartridge assembly 22 has not been displaced downwards (e.g., due to relatively thin tissue being between the jaws of surgical stapler 10, or when there is no tissue present such as during a test firing). In this scenario, there may be a relatively large gap 526 between inter-fin sled surface 503 and bottom cartridge surface 504 (e.g., approximately 0.020 inches).

[0073] When actuation sled 52 pushes staple pushers 44 upwards, and when staple pushers 44 are pushed upwards to a maximum height, there may be a relatively small interference distance between bottom staple pusher surfaces 506 and angled fin surfaces 505. For example, the bottom staple pusher surfaces 506 may be disposed slightly lower than the angled fin surfaces 505, creatingAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01a small interference (e.g., 0.002 inches). In contrast, FIG. 6 illustrates a maximum-gap scenario when the tissue gap compression member 55 is significantly compressed (e.g., due to the tissue between the jaws of the surgical stapler being relatively thick), and thus cartridge assembly 22 is displaced vertically downwards. The “maximum gap” refers to the distance between the tissue contacting surface of anvil 20 and the tissue contacting surface 201 of staple cartridge 28 (FIG. 2), where the distance between the tissue contacting surface of anvil 20 and the tissue contacting surface 201 of staple cartridge 28 is at its greatest because the cartridge assembly 22 has been displaced downwards (e.g., tissue gap compression member 55 is fully compressed). In this scenario, there may be a relatively small gap, or substantially no gap, between inter- fin sled surface 503 and bottom cartridge surface 504. In either the “maximum gap” or “minimum gap” scenarios, the staple pushers 44 travel a same distance along the length of fins 53A and 53B in order for actuation sled 52 to push staple pushers 44 up to the same height (e.g., to angled fin surfaces 505 of actuation sled 52) since staple cartridge 28 pushes down on separate compressible member 502 in both scenarios, that is, once staple cartridge 28 contacts actuation sled 52, actuation sled and staple cartridge 28 move together downwards the same amount due to the compressibility of separate compressible member 502.

[0074] Referring to FIGs. 7-8, actuation sled 52A includes angled inner and outer fins 53A, 53B, angled fin surfaces 505, inter-fin sled surfaces 513, center projection 515, sled support recess 509, sled support protrusion recess 516, rear sled recess 508, front sled protrusion recess 520, and bottom sled surface 512.

[0075] Angled inner and outer fins 53A, 53B are vertical walls that extend substantially vertically and perpendicularly to inter-fin sled surfaces 513. Pushers 44 slide up angled inner and outer fins 53A, 53B as actuation sled 52A is pushed forward during firing. In some examples, sled 52A may include two outer fins 53B and two inner fins 53A. In some examples, inner fins 53A may be disposed slightly distal relative to outer fins 53B. When actuation sled 52A moves forward during firing, fins 53A and 53B force staple pushers 44 up the angled fin surfaces 505 while portions of cartridge body 38 are disposed in between fins 53 A and 53B, and are disposed proximal and above inter- fin sled surfaces 513.

[0076] Angled fin surfaces 505 are top diagonal flat surfaces disposed on angled inner and outer fins 53A, 53B. Angled fin surfaces 505 are lower at a distal end of actuation sled 52A and higher at a proximal end of actuation sled 52A. Pushers 44 slide up angled fin surfaces 505 from,Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01for example, the distal ends of the angled fin surfaces 505 to the proximal ends of angled fin surfaces 505. Angled fin surfaces 505 may form an acute angle with respect to inter-fin sled surfaces 513. The “distal end” or “proximal end” of actuation sled 52 A, or any component described herein, refer to the distal half or third, or proximal half or third, respectively, of the component referenced.

[0077] Inter-fin sled surfaces 513 are disposed in between fins 53 A, 53B and between fins 53 A and center projection 515 and are substantially flat surfaces extending from a distal end of actuation sled 52A to a proximal end of actuation sled 52A. In some examples, cartridge body 38 may contact or come into close proximity with inter-fin sled surfaces 513 as illustrated in FIG. 6. Depending on the position of cartridge body 38, such portions of cartridge body 38 may be spaced from inter-fin sled surfaces 513 or may be substantially adjacent or spaced less with respect to inter-fin sled surfaces 513 as described previously.

[0078] Center projection 515 is a vertical wall that extends substantially vertically and perpendicularly to inter- fin sled surfaces 513. Center projection 515 may extend from a distal end of actuation sled 52A to a proximal end of actuation sled 52A. Center projection 515 may be disposed substantially in the center of actuation sled 515, for example, between angled inner fins 53 A. Center sled keel 515 may be aligned with working member 124. Center projection 515 may include a proximal portion 524 that extends distally to proximally and terminates in the middle of the top flat portion 525 of angled inner fins 53A as viewed from the side (FIG. 8).

[0079] Sled support recess 509 is an indent into the bottom of actuation sled 52A that generally has a substantially same or similar shape as sled support base 507 such that sled support base 507 fits into sled support recess 509. For example, sled support recess 509 may be disposed on an underside of actuation sled 52A (e.g., opposite fins 53A and 53B). Sled support recess 509 may include front sled protrusion recess 520. A depth of sled support recess 509 may be defined from bottom sled surface 512 and to a depth substantially equal to the depth of sled support base 507 (e.g., as defined from top sled support surface 518 to bottom sled support surface 511).

[0080] Sled support protrusion recess 516 is a substantially oblong indent that extends from recessed bottom sled surface 522 that generally has a substantially same or similar shape as sled support protrusion 510 such that sled support protrusion 510 fits into sled support protrusion recess 516.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0081] Rear sled recess 508 is a through-hole that extends through recessed bottom sled surface 522 and through actuation sled 52A. Rear sled recess 508 is disposed at a proximal end of actuation sled 52A. At least a portion of working member 124 may be received in rear sled recess 508 to push actuation sled 52A.

[0082] Front sled protrusion recess 520 is a portion of sled support recess 509 at a distal end of actuation sled 52A. Front sled protrusion recess 520 is at least partially constrained by front sled recess walls 523, which extend downwards and perpendicular with respect to bottom sled surface 512.

[0083] Bottom sled surface 512 is a substantially flat and horizontal surface disposed at a distal end of actuation sled 52A. Bottom sled surface 512 is offset from recessed bottom sled surface 522 and is disposed lower than recessed bottom sled surface 522. Bottom sled surface 512 is substantially flush with bottom sled support surface 511 when sled support component 501 is received in sled support recess 509.

[0084] Referring to FIGs. 8-9, sled support component 501 includes sled support base 507. Separate compression member 502 is attached to sled support component 501, and specifically, sled support base 507. Sled support base 507 and separate compression member 502 may form a single integrated part (e.g., a monolithic or unibody component), or may be separate attached components. Sled support component 501 may fit into sled support recess 509 of actuation sled 52A. In particular, sled support base 507 may fit into sled support recess 509 of actuation sled 52A. Sled support base 507 may include top sled support surface 518, bottom sled support surface 511, sled support protrusion 510, rear sled support recess 517, proximal front sled support protrusion 519, distal front sled support protrusion 527, and chamfered or filleted edges 521. Distal front sled support protrusion 527 may be coupled to proximal front sled support protrusion 519 and may be more distal and have a shorter width than proximal front sled support protrusion 519. In some examples, a height of sled support base 507 (e.g., measured from top sled support surface 518 to bottom sled support surface 511) may be substantially equal to a depth of sled support recess 509 such that bottom sled support surface 511 of sled support base 507 is flush with bottom sled surface 512 of actuation sled 52A when sled support component 501 fits into sled support recess 509 of actuation sled 52A.

[0085] Top sled support surface 518 is a substantially flat surface that is substantially adjacent to and in contact with recessed bottom sled surface 522 when sled support protrusion 501 isAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01received in sled support recess 509. Bottom sled support surface 511 is a substantially flat surface that is substantially opposite top sled support surface 518. Sled support protrusion 510 may be disposed on bottom sled support surface 511.

[0086] Sled support protrusion 510 may be disposed on an opposite side of sled support base 507 as compared to separate compression member 502. Sled support protrusion 510 may be configured to fit into sled support protrusion recess 516 of actuation sled 52A. Sled support protrusion 510 may be a substantially oblong protrusion. Sled support protrusion recess 516 may similarly be a substantially oblong recess matching the shape of sled support protrusion 510. Both sled support protrusion 510 and sled support protrusion recess 516 may be oriented perpendicular to the direction of travel of actuation sled 52A during firing.

[0087] Rear sled support recess 517 may be disposed substantially adjacent to separate compression member 502. Rear sled support recess 517 may be substantially adjacent to rear sled recess 508, through both of which at least a portion of working member 124 may be disposed in use. Rear sled support recess 517 may extend through sled support base 507 (e.g., from bottom sled support surface 511 to top sled support surface 518) and may be open on the rear side of sled support base 507.

[0088] Front sled support protrusion 519 may be disposed at a distal end of sled support base 507. Front sled support protrusion 519 may have a width thinner than that of the rest of sled support base 507 and may extend distally from the rest of sled support base 507. Front sled support protrusion 519 may fit into front sled protrusion recess 520.

[0089] Chamfered or filleted edges 521 may be partially or fully chamfered or filleted edges disposed on edges of sled support component 501 and adjacent to bottom sled support surface 511.

[0090] Referring to FIGs. 10-11, actuation sled 52B illustrates another example of an actuation sled in accordance with the present disclosure. Features may be similar to those of actuation sled 52A with a difference in center projection 529, which may be generally smaller and / or lower than center projection 515. For example, center projection 529 may extend to a height below that of angled inner fins 53 A, while center projection 515 may extend to a height above that of angled inner fins 53A. Actuation sleds 52A and 52B are both compatible with all other features of the present disclosure.

[0091] The sled-support compression member 502 may be disposed substantially vertically downward from sled support base 507 (e.g., from bottom sled support surface 511). FIGs. 12-19Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01illustrate different examples of separate compression member 502. For example, separate compression member 502 may include uniform rectangular spring 1201, hollow tube spring 1301, hollow lofted tube spring 1401, canted spring 1501, disc washer spring(s) 1601, oval split spring 1701, or C-spring 1901. FIGs. 20-26 illustrate how the different examples of FIGs. 12-19 are attached to the actuation sled 52A (e.g., via sled support base 507).

[0092] Referring to FIGs. 12 A, 12B, and 20, uniform rectangular spring 1201 is a bent elongated single spring that extends distally or proximally along and underneath sled support base 507. Uniform rectangular spring 1201 may be disposed between sled support base 507 and channel member 26 (e.g., specifically, bottom channel wall 32). Uniform rectangular spring 1201 is coupled to sled support base 507 at its ends (e.g., proximal and distal ends such as distal front sled support protrusion 527 and proximal base contact surface 528) and bends downward in middle portion 1202 away from sled support base 507. Proximal base contact surface 528 may be disposed adjacent to rear sled recess 508 (e.g., slightly distally relative to rear sled recess 508) and may generally be disposed at a proximal end of sled support base 507. The middle portion 1202 contacts bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26.

[0093] Uniform rectangular spring 1201 may have a substantially rectangular cross-sectional area, taking a transverse cross section of uniform rectangular spring 1201. Uniform rectangular spring 1201 may be made of one or more materials, including organic materials, inorganic materials, metals, plastics, ceramics, or any other materials. Generally, uniform rectangular spring 1201 is at least somewhat elastic (or resilient) or has capabilities of significant elastic deformation. For example, uniform rectangular spring 1201 may be able to compress to a completely or at least partially flat or compressed profile and elastically return to its original bent or decompressed shape upon decompression.

[0094] In some examples, a proximal end of uniform rectangular spring 1201 may be in contact with working member 124 (e.g., specifically, with vertical surface 2001 of working member 124). When staple pushers 44 exert downward force on actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on uniform rectangular spring 1201, compressing uniform rectangular spring 1201 into a more linear, flat, or compressed shape (e.g., less curved) as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus uniform rectangular spring 1201 moves distally as uniform rectangular spring 1201 is coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shape of uniform rectangularAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01spring 1201 prior to firing may be maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is maintained at a substantially constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed. To the extent additional compression occurs, the uniform rectangular spring 1201 may prevent the actuation sled 52 from further compressing of the tissue-gap compression member 55.

[0095] In some examples, uniform rectangular spring 1201 may include one or more recesses 1203, as shown in FIG. 12B. Recesses 1203 may be disposed in middle portion 1202 of uniform rectangular spring 1201. Recesses 1203 may extend laterally across uniform rectangular spring 1201 (e.g., in a direction perpendicular to the length of uniform rectangular spring 1201). Recesses 1201 may include an opening at a top surface of uniform rectangular spring 1201 and may be recessed only partially through the depth of uniform rectangular spring 1201.

[0096] Referring to FIGs. 13 and 21, hollow tube spring 1301 is a bent elongated single spring that extends distally or proximally along and underneath sled support base 507. Hollow tube spring 1301 maybe hollow through the length of hollow tube spring 1301. Hollow tube spring 1301 may be disposed between sled support base 507 and channel member 26 (e.g., specifically, bottom channel wall 32). Hollow tube spring 1301 is coupled to sled support base 507 at its ends (e.g., proximal and distal ends such as distal front sled support protrusion 527 and proximal base contact surface 528) and bends downward in middle portion 1302 away from sled support base 507. Proximal base contact surface 528 may be disposed adjacent to rear sled recess 508 (e.g., slightly distally relative to rear sled recess 508) and may generally be disposed at a proximal end of sled support base 507. The middle portion 1302 contacts bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26.

[0097] Hollow tube spring 1301 may have a substantially annular cross-sectional area, taking a transverse cross section of hollow tube spring 1301. Hollow tube spring 1301 may be made of one or more materials, including organic materials, inorganic materials, metals, plastics, ceramics, or any other materials. Generally, hollow tube spring 1301 is at least somewhat elastic or has capabilities of significant elastic deformation. For example, hollow tube spring 1301 may be able to compress to a completely or partially flat or compressed profile and elastically return to its original bent or decompressed shape upon decompression. In some examples, a proximal end of hollow tube spring 1301 may be in contact with working member 124 (e.g., specifically, with vertical surface 2001 of working member 124). When staple pushers 44 exert downward force onAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on hollow tube spring 1301, compressing hollow tube spring 1301 into a more linear, flat, or compressed shape (e.g., less curved) as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus uniform rectangular spring 1201 moves distally as hollow tube spring 1301 is coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shape of hollow tube spring 1301 prior to firing is maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is maintained at a substantially constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed.

[0098] Referring to FIGs. 14 and 22, hollow lofted tube spring 1401 is substantially similar to hollow tube spring 1301, however, hollow lofted tube spring 1401 may have a substantially annular cross sectional area that is narrower closer to middle portion 1402 and wider distally and proximally relative to middle portion 1402, taking a transverse cross section of hollow lofted tube spring 1401.

[0099] Referring to FIGs. 15 and 23, canted, coil spring 1501 is an elongated spring system that extends distally or proximally along and underneath sled support base 507. FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the canted spring 1501, and FIG. 23 shows the canted spring 1501 wrapped in a cover or outer sleeve 1504. Canted spring 1501 may be disposed between sled support base 507 and channel member 26 (e.g., specifically, bottom channel wall 32). Canted spring 1501 may be coupled to and / or in contact with sled support base 507 at its ends (e.g., proximal and distal ends such as distal front sled support protrusion 527 and proximal base contact surface 528) or across a length of sled support base 507 from distal front sled support protrusion to proximal base contact surface 528, and is substantially straight or linear. That is, the springs 1503 themselves may be coiled, but the overall spring system is substantially linear as illustrated. Proximal base contact surface 528 may be disposed adjacent to rear sled recess 508 (e.g., slightly distally relative to rear sled recess 508) and may generally be disposed at a proximal end of sled support base 507. A portion or all of canted spring 1501 contacts bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26.

[0100] Canted spring 1501 may have a substantially circular, oval, or annular cross-sectional area, taking a transverse cross section of canted spring 1501. Canted spring 1501 may be made of one or more materials, including organic materials, inorganic materials, metals, plastics, ceramics, or any other materials. Canted spring 1501 may include one or more springs 1503 internal to an outer sleeve 1504. Outer sleeve 1504 may be omitted or optional in some examples. Springs 1503Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01may be coiled horizontally, for example, in a proximal-distal direction as illustrated. Generally, canted spring 1501 is at least somewhat elastic or has capabilities of significant elastic deformation. For example, canted spring 1501 may be able to compress to a completely or partially flat or compressed profile and elastically return to its original shape upon decompression. In some examples, a proximal end of canted spring 1501 may be in contact with working member 124 (e.g., specifically, with vertical surface 2001 of working member 124). When canted spring 1501 is compressed, springs 1503 are compressed radially rather than longitudinally, where longitudinally is defined in a direction parallel to axis Z through the cavity defined by springs 1503 as illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0101] When staple pushers 44 exert downward force on actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on canted spring 1501, compressing canted spring 1501 into a flatter shape as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus canted spring 1501 moves distally as canted spring 1501 is coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shape of canted spring 1501 prior to firing is substantially maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is maintained at a constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed.

[0102] In some examples, sled support component 501 may include one or more (e.g., two) support bars (not shown in FIGs. 15 and 23) that extend downwardly from sled support base 507 and support canted spring 1501. For example, each support bar may extend at least partially through or within the cavity formed within springs 1503. Support bar 1502A may extend through a distal end of canted spring 1501, and support bar 1502B may extend through a proximal end of canted spring 1501. Support bar 1502A may be coupled to sled support base 507 at front sled support protrusion 527, and support bar 1502B may be coupled to sled support base 507 at proximal base contact surface 528. Support bars 1502 may be shown in FIG. 26 (not shown in FIGs, 15 and 23).

[0103] Referring to FIGs. 16 and 24, disc washer spring 1601 is a bent spring sheet that extends distally or proximally along and underneath sled support base 507. Specifically, the depicted example disc washer springs 1601 are bent or curved tabs. For example, each disc washer spring 1601 may be curved or bent in substantially a wide “n” shape or a “c” shape. In some examples, an apex of each disc washer spring 1601 may be in contact with sled support base 507 and ends ofAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01each disc washer spring 1601 may be in contact with channel member 26. One or more disc washer springs 1601 may be coupled to sled support base 507 as illustrated in FIG. 23 (e.g., via screws, adhesive at the apex of each disc washer spring 1601), and may be spaced proximally-distally underneath sled support base 507. For example, disc washer springs 1601 may include apertures 1602 disposed at the apex of disc washer springs 1601 and extending through disc washer springs 1601. Screws, welds, adhesives, or other attachment mechanisms may be employed to couple disc washer springs 1601 to actuation sled 52 (e.g., via sled support base 507) via apertures 1602.

[0104] Disc washer springs 1601 may be disposed between sled support base 507 and channel member 26 (e.g., specifically, bottom channel wall 32). Disc washer springs 1601 are coupled to sled support base 507 at its ends (e.g., proximal and distal ends such as distal front sled support protrusion 527 and proximal base contact surface 528). A portion (e.g., the ends) of disc washer springs 1601 contact bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26. Disc washer springs 1601 may be made of one or more materials, including organic materials, inorganic materials, metals, plastics, ceramics, or any other materials. Generally, disc washer springs 1601 are at least somewhat elastic or have capabilities of significant elastic deformation. For example, disc washer springs 1601 may be able to compress to a completely or mostly flat or compressed profile and elastically return to their original bent or decompressed shape upon decompression. When staple pushers 44 exert downward force on actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on disc washer springs 1601, compressing disc washer springs 1601 into flatter shapes as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus disc washer springs 1601 move distally as disc washer springs 1601 are coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shapes of disc washer springs 1601 prior to firing are substantially maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is substantially maintained at a constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed.

[0105] Referring to FIGs. 17, 18, and 25, oval split spring 1701. The oval split spring 1701 may operate similar to the other springs discussed herein. For instance, the oval split spring 170 may be coupled to the underside of the actuation sled 52 between the actuation sled 52 and the bottom wall of the channel member. The oval split spring 1701 then helps maintain the position of the actuation sled 52 during firing of the stapling device. For instance, as the pushers apply downward pressure on the actuation sled 52, the oval split spring 1701 resists the forces and helpsAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01maintain the position of the actuation sled 52 such that the actuation sled 52 does not further compress the tissue-gap compressible member 55.

[0106] Referring to FIGs. 19 and 26, C-spring 1901 is an elongated spring system that extends distally or proximally along and underneath sled support base 507. C-spring 1901 may be disposed between sled support base 507 and channel member 26 (e.g., specifically, bottom channel wall 32). C-spring 1901 may be coupled to and / or in contact with sled support base 507 at its ends (e.g., proximal and distal ends such as distal front sled support protrusion 527 and proximal base contact surface 528) or across a length of sled support base 507 from distal front sled support protrusion 527 to proximal base contact surface 528, and is substantially straight or linear. Proximal base contact surface 528 may be disposed adjacent to rear sled recess 508 (e.g., slightly distally relative to rear sled recess 508) and may generally be disposed at a proximal end of sled support base 507. In some examples, a portion of C-spring 1901 contacts bottom channel wall 32 of channel member 26. C-spring 1901 may be made of one or more materials, including organic materials, inorganic materials, metals, plastics, ceramics, or any other materials.

[0107] C -spring 1901 may include two slots 1902A and 1902B extending through the length of C-spring 1901. Slots 1902 may be oriented on top of one another or vertically with respect to one another. Slots 1902 may be open to a lateral side of C-spring 1901 (e.g., both slots 1902 may be open to the same lateral side but not the other lateral side). Generally, C-spring 1901 is at least somewhat elastic or has capabilities of significant elastic deformation. For example, C-spring 1901 may be able to compress to a flatter or compressed profile and elastically return to its original uncompressed shape upon decompression. In some examples, a proximal end of C-spring 1901 may be in contact with working member 124 (e.g., specifically, with vertical surface 2001 of working member 124). When staple pushers 44 exert downward force on actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on C-spring 1901, compressing C-spring 1901 into a flatter or compressed shape as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus C-spring 1901 moves distally as C-spring 1901 is coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shape of C-spring 1901 prior to firing is substantially maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is maintained at a constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0108] In some examples, the sled support component 501 (e.g., sled support base 507) may include one or more (e.g., two) support bars 1502 that extend downwardly from sled support base 507 and support C-spring 1901. For example, each support bar 1502 may extend at least partially through or within one or both of slots 1902 of the C-spring 1901. Support bar 1502A may extend through a distal end of C-spring 1901, and support bar 1502B may extend through a proximal end of C-spring 1901. Support bar 1502Amay be coupled to sled support base 507 at front sled support protrusion 527, and support bar 1502B may be coupled to sled support base 507 at proximal base contact surface 528.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 27, separate compression member 502 may include a solid keel 2701 extending downwards from the actuation sled 52 (e.g., from sled support base 507) and in contact with bottom channel wall 32. The keel 2701 may be solid material with a rectangular-prism shape . The keel 2701 may have substantially elastic properties (e.g., a rubber) and may be molded or otherwise coupled to sled support base 507. The keel 2701 may have a substantially flat bottom surface that is in contact with channel member 26. Similarly, the keel 2701 may have a substantially flat top surface that is in contact with sled support base 507.

[0110] In some examples, an outer covering 2702 is coupled to and covers the distal and bottom surfaces of the keel 2701. The outer covering 2702 may be made of a material that is different from that of the keel 2701. For instance, the covering 2702 may be made of a low-friction material (e.g., a material having a lower friction with the channel member than the material of the keel 2701) to allow for easier sliding against the bottom wall of the channel member. In other examples, the keel 2701 is made of a rigid material and the outer covering 2702 is made of an elastic material that absorbs the forces from the pushers.

[0111] When staple pushers 44 exert downward force on actuation sled 52 as described previously, actuation sled 52 in turn exerts force on keel 2701, compressing rectangular prism shaped material 2701 into a flatter or compressed shape as actuation sled 52 moves vertically downwards. When working member 124 pushes actuation sled 52 distally (and thus keel 2701 moves distally as rectangular keel 2701 is coupled to sled support base 507), the compressed or uncompressed shape of keel 2701 prior to firing is substantially maintained throughout the firing process such that actuation sled 52 is maintained at a substantially constant height during firing to ensure that staples 42 are properly formed.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0112] Referring to FIGs. 3 A, 5, 6, and 28, working member 124 includes 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). In some examples, working member 124 includes knife blade 131 disposed in recess 133 of working member 124. Recess 133 is an indent into a top portion of strut 130. Strut 130 may be a substantially rectangular prism (aside from recess 133 and knife blade 131) extending from first flange 126 to second flange 128. Working member 124 may include a substantially flat, continuous, and vertical surface 2001 extending approximately from recess 133 to second flange 128.

[0113] As will be appreciated from the foregoing, the technology of the present application relates to at least the following examples. In an aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly, the cartridge assembly comprising: a channel member that defines an internal channel; a plurality of staple pushers configured to push staples towards the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of staple pushers; a tissue-gap compression member coupled to the channel member; and a sled-coupled compression member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with a bottom channel wall of the channel member.

[0114] In some examples, the actuation sled is configured to exert force onto the sled-coupled compression member to compress the sled-coupled compression member between the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member. In some examples, the surgical stapling device comprises a sled support base coupled to the bottom side of the actuation sled, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is coupled to the sled support base. In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member is disposed in a slot between extensions of the tissue-gap compression member. In some examples, the sled-coupled compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member. In some examples, the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid elastic material. In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member during firing of the stapling device.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01

[0115] In another aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a 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 pushers configured to push staples; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled actuation sled and positioned between a bottom surface of the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces when the actuation sled pushes the plurality of pushers; and a working member that pushes the actuation sled and the sled-coupled compressible member distally during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0116] In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member is coupled to a center of the bottom side of the actuation sled. In some examples, the surgical stapling device further comprises a tissue-gap compression member that is different from the sled-coupled compression member, and wherein the tissue-gap compression member is disposed on the bottom channel wall of the channel member. In some examples, the separate compression member is disposed in a slot between extensions of the tissue-gap compression member. In some examples, the separate compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member. In some examples, the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid rubber / elastic material.

[0117] In another aspect, the present application relates to a surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body and 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 of staples are received within the staple receiving pockets; a tissue-gap compression member coupled to the bottom wall of the channel, wherein the tissue-gap compression member is configured to compress based on a thickness of tissue clamped between the staple cartridge and the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces from the actuation sled whenAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01the actuation sled pushes the pushers; and a working member that pushes the sled support component distally, which pushes the actuation sled distally, during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0118] In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member during firing of the stapling device. In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member is not in contact with the tissue-gap compression member. In some examples, the sled-coupled compression member is disposed in between a slot between extensions of the tissue gap compression member. In some examples, the sled-coupled compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member. In some examples, the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid rubber / elastic material. In some examples, the compression member comprises a spring.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 skill 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.

[0121] 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.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01Numerous 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.

[0122] The following examples are illustrative of the techniques described herein.

[0123] Example 1. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a cartridge assembly, the cartridge assembly comprising: a channel member that defines an internal channel; a plurality of staple pushers configured to push staples towards the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of staple pushers; a tissue-gap compression member coupled to the channel member; and a sled-coupled compression member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with a bottom channel wall of the channel member.

[0124] Example 2. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the actuation sled is configured to exert force onto the sled-coupled compression member to compress the sled-coupled compression member between the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member.

[0125] Example 3. The surgical stapling device of example 1, further comprising a sled support base coupled to the bottom side of the actuation sled, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is coupled to the sled support base.

[0126] Example 4. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is disposed in a slot between extensions of the tissue-gap compression member.

[0127] Example 5. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member.

[0128] Example 6. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid elastic material.

[0129] Example 7. The surgical stapling device of example 1, wherein the sled-coupled compression member prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member during firing of the stapling device.

[0130] Example 8. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a stapleAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01cartridge comprising: a cartridge body that defines a knife slot and staple receiving pockets positioned on sides of the knife slot; a plurality of pushers configured to push staples; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality of pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled actuation sled and positioned between a bottom surface of the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces when the actuation sled pushes the plurality of pushers ; and a working member that pushes the actuation sled and the sled-coupled compressible member distally during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0131] Example 9. The surgical stapling device of example 8, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is coupled to a center of the bottom side of the actuation sled.

[0132] Example 10. The surgical stapling device of example 8, further comprising a tissue-gap compression member that is different from the sled-coupled compression member, and wherein the tissue-gap compression member is disposed on the bottom channel wall of the channel member.

[0133] Example 11. The surgical stapling device of example 10, wherein the separate compression member is disposed in a slot between extensions of the tissue-gap compression member.

[0134] Example 12. The surgical stapling device of example 8, wherein the separate compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member.

[0135] Example 13. The surgical stapling device of example 8, wherein the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid rubber / elastic material.

[0136] Example 14. A surgical stapling device, comprising: an anvil assembly; a channel member that defines an internal channel and a bottom channel wall; and a staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body and 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 of staples are received within the staple receiving pockets; a tissue-gap compression member coupled to the bottom wall of the channel, wherein the tissue-gap compression member is configured to compress based on a thickness of tissue clamped between the staple cartridge and the anvil assembly; an actuation sled configured to push the plurality ofAttorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01pushers; a sled-coupled compressible member coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with the bottom channel wall of the channel member, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member is configured to receive compression forces from the actuation sled when the actuation sled pushes the pushers; and a working member that pushes the sled support component distally, which pushes the actuation sled distally, during firing of the surgical stapling device.

[0137] Example 15. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein sled-coupled compression member prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member during firing of the stapling device.

[0138] Example 16. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is not in contact with the tissue-gap compression member.

[0139] Example 17. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is disposed in between a slot between extensions of the tissue gap compression member.

[0140] Example 18. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by the working member.

[0141] Example 19. The surgical stapling device of example 14, wherein the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid rubber / elastic material.

[0142] Example 20. The surgical stapling device of example 19, wherein the compression member comprising a spring.

Claims

Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ01WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A surgical stapling device (10), comprising:an anvil assembly (20);a cartridge assembly (22), the cartridge assembly comprising:a channel member (26) that defines an internal channel;a plurality of staple pushers (44) configured to push staples towards the anvil assembly;an actuation sled (52) configured to push the plurality of staple pushers;a tissue-gap compression member (55) coupled to the channel member; and a sled-coupled compression member (502) coupled to a bottom side of the actuation sled and in contact with a bottom channel wall of the channel member.

2. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the actuation sled is configured to exert force onto the sled-coupled compression member to compress the sled-coupled compression member between the actuation sled and the bottom channel wall of the channel member.

3. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-2, further comprising a sled support base coupled to the bottom side of the actuation sled, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is coupled to the sled support base.

4. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the sled-coupled compression member is disposed in a slot between extensions of the tissue-gap compression member.

5. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the sled-coupled compressible member moves with the actuation sled as the actuation sled is pushed by a working member.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ016. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the separate compression member comprises a hollow tube spring, a hollow lofted tube spring, at least one canted spring, at least one disc washer spring, a C-spring, or a solid elastic material.

7. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the sled-coupled compression member prevents further compression of the tissue-gap compression member during firing of the stapling device.

8. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the cartridge assembly further comprises a staple cartridge, and wherein the channel member includes side walls and the bottom channel wall that define a cavity that receives the staple cartridge.

9. The surgical stapling device of claim 8, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body that defines a knife slot and staple receiving pockets positioned on each side of the knife slot.

10. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-9, further comprising a drive assembly including a working member configured to engage the actuation sled and move the actuation sled from a sled retracted position toward a sled advanced position.

11. The surgical stapling device of claim 10, wherein the working member comprises a strut including a first flange on an anvil-side of the strut and a second flange on a cartridge-side of the strut, and wherein the second flange is received within the internal channel of the channel member.

12. The surgical stapling device of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the actuation sled defines a sled support recess on a bottom side of the actuation sled, and wherein a sled support base is received within the sled support recess.Attorney Docket No,: A0013261WQ0113. The surgical stapling device of claim 12, wherein a bottom sled support surface of the sled support base is flush with a bottom sled surface of the actuation sled when the sled support base is received in the sled support recess.

14. The surgical stapling device of claim 3, wherein the sled-coupled compression member comprises a uniform rectangular spring that is coupled to the sled support base at proximal and distal ends of the uniform rectangular spring, and wherein a middle portion of the uniform rectangular spring contacts the bottom channel wall of the channel member.

15. The surgical stapling device of claim 1, wherein the sled-coupled compression member comprises a solid keel extending downward from the actuation sled and in contact with the bottom channel wall, and wherein an outer covering is coupled to and covers distal and bottom surfaces of the keel, the outer covering comprising a low-friction material.

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