CN112153945A - Cartridge including latch key configured to lift firing member - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention discloses a surgical suture assembly (45000). The surgical stapling assembly includes a stapling instrument configured to receive a staple cartridge (45300) in the surgical stapling assembly. The stapling instrument includes a first jaw (45200), a second jaw (45400) movable relative to the first jaw, a firing member (45520) configured to push a slider (45340) to deploy staples, and A latch configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member when the staple cartridge is not properly seated within the stapling instrument and when the staple cartridge slide is not in the unfired position, wherein when the staple cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument The latch key (45300) of the staple cartridge deactivates the first stage of the latch when in the stapling instrument, and wherein the slide (45340) deactivates the latch when the slide is in the unfired position and the cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument The second stage fails.

Description

Cartridge including latch key configured to lift firing member

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,310, filed on February 19, 2019, entitled "METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWEREDSURGICAL STAPLER THAT HAS SEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS", filed on February 19, 2019, entitled US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,319 for "SURGICAL STAPLINGDEVICES WITH IMPROVED LOCKOUT SYSTEMS" and US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,309 for "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED ROTARYDRIVEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS", filed February 19, 2019 , the disclosures of these applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/650,887, filed March 30, 2018, entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH OPTIMIZED SENSING CAPABILITIES," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. This application claims US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,302, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH ENCRYPTED COMMUNICATION CAPABILITIES," and entitled "DATA STRIPPING METHOD TO INTERROGATE PATIENT RECORDS." AND CREATE ANONYMIZEDRECORD" U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,294, filed March 28, 2018, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,300, filed March 28, 2018, titled "SURGICALHUB SITUATIONAL AWARENESS" U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,309 for "SURGICAL HUB SPATIAL AWARENESS TO DETERMINE DEVICES IN OPERATINGTHEATER," U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,310, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "COMPUTERIMPLEMENTED INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS," U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,291, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "USE OF LASER LIGHT AND RED-GREEN-BLUE COLORATION TODETERMINE PROPERTIES OF BACK SCATTERED LIGHT," filed March 28, 2018, entitled US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,296 for "ADAPTIVE CONTROL PROGRAM UPDATES FOR SURGICAL DEVICES", US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. for "CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS FOR CUSTOMIZATION AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO A USER" filed March 28, 2018 62/649,333, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,327, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "CLOUD-BASED MEDICALANALYTICS FOR SECURITY AND AUTHENTICATION TRENDS AND REACTIVE MEASURES," filed March 28, 2018 US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,315, entitled "DATA HANDLING ANDPRIORITIZATION IN A CLOUD ANALYTICS NETWORK," US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62, entitled "CLOUD INTERFACE FOR COUPLED SURGICAL DEVICES," filed March 28, 2018 /649,313, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,320, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTSFOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS," filed March 28, 2018, entitled "AUTOMATIC TOOL ADJUSTMENTS FOR ROBOT- ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS" U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,307, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,323, filed March 28, 2018, entitled "SENSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS", these applications The disclosure of the entirety of is incorporated herein by reference.

Background technique

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments designed to staple and cut tissue and staple cartridges for use therewith.

Description of drawings

The various features of the embodiments described herein, along with their advantages, can be understood from the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings:

1 is a perspective view of a powered surgical suturing system;

2 is a perspective view of an interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 1;

3 is an exploded assembled view of portions of the handle assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 1;

Figure 4 is an exploded assembly view of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of Figure 2;

Figure 5 is another partially exploded assembly view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical shaft assembly of Figure 4;

6 is a perspective view of another powered surgical suturing system;

7 is an exploded assembled view of a portion of the shaft assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 6;

8 is an exploded assembled view of portions of the handle assembly of the powered surgical stapling system of FIG. 6;

9 is a side elevational view of another surgical end effector usable with a rotary powered surgical stapling system;

Figure 10 is an exploded assembled view of the surgical end effector of Figure 9;

11 is an exploded assembly view of a rotationally powered firing member usable with the surgical end effector of FIGS. 9 and 10;

12 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 9 showing initial insertion of a new unfired surgical staple cartridge therein;

13 is another partial cross-sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 12 after the surgical staple cartridge has been operably installed therein;

14 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the firing member and cam action assembly of the end effector of FIG. 13;

15 is another partial cross-sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 9 prior to insertion of a new surgical staple cartridge therein and with its firing member latch assembly in a locked position;

16 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the firing member and latching lug of the end effector of FIG. 15, with the cam action assembly and end effector passageway omitted for clarity;

Figure 17 is a side elevational view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position;

Figure 18 is a partial bottom perspective view of the surgical end effector of Figure 17;

Figure 19 is a perspective view of the channel mounting feature and anvil latch spring of the surgical end effector of Figure 17;

20 is a partial bottom perspective view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 17 with the surgical staple cartridge not installed and its anvil in a locked position;

21 is another partial bottom perspective view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 20 after a compatible surgical staple cartridge has been installed therein and the anvil latching spring has been moved to an unlocked position;

Figure 22 is a perspective view of the proximal end portion of the surgical staple cartridge shown in Figure 21;

23 is a partially exploded assembled view of the surgical staple cartridge and the corresponding anvil and anvil latching system of the surgical end effector;

24 is a partially exploded assembled view of a surgical staple cartridge and a corresponding anvil and anvil latching system of another surgical end effector;

25 is a partial bottom view of a channel of another end effector with a compatible surgical staple cartridge loaded therein, with portions of the compatible surgical staple cartridge omitted for clarity;

Figure 26 is a side elevational view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Figure 25 with portions of the channel, anvil and cartridge omitted for clarity;

Figure 27 is a partial cutaway end view of the surgical end effector of Figures 25 and 26 with the anvil shown in a closed position on a compatible surgical staple cartridge;

Figure 28 is another partial cutaway end view of the surgical end effector of Figures 25 and 26 with its anvil shown in a locked open position;

29 is a side elevational view of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of FIGS. 25 and 26 shown in a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration (shown in phantom);

Figure 30 is a side elevational view of a portion of another surgical end effector with portions of the channel, anvil and cartridge omitted for clarity;

Figure 31 is a front elevational view of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Figure 30;

Figure 32 is a top view of the anvil lock of Figure 31;

33 is a cross-sectional side view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position and with a compatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

34 is a partial perspective view of the proximal end of the compatible surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 33 in relation to a portion of the anvil locking feature of the surgical end effector of FIG. 33;

35 is a top view of a portion of a channel of the surgical end effector of FIG. 33 and an outline of the compatible surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 33 inserted therein;

Figure 36 is another cross-sectional side view of the surgical end effector of Figure 33 with its anvil in an open position during initial installation of an incompatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

37 is a cross-sectional side view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position during installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

38 is a cross-sectional side view of portions of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position during installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

39 is a cross-sectional side view of portions of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position during installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

40 is a cross-sectional side view of the end effector of FIG. 39 during installation of an incompatible cartridge therein;

41 is a partial perspective view of the proximal end portion of the anvil;

Figure 42 is a partial perspective view of a proximal end portion of another anvil;

Figure 43 is a partial cutaway end view of portions of another surgical end effector;

Figure 44 is a partial perspective view of the proximal end portion of the anvil of the surgical end effector of Figure 43;

Figure 45 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a passageway and a portion of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Figure 43 with the anvil lock in a locked position;

46 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 43 with the anvil in an open position and its anvil lock shown in phantom in a locked position;

Figure 47 is another partial cutaway perspective view of a passageway and a portion of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Figure 43 with the anvil lock in an unlocked position;

Figure 48 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 43 with the anvil in a closed position and its anvil lock shown in phantom in an unlocked position;

Figure 49 is a partial cutaway end view of portions of another surgical end effector;

Figure 50 is a partial perspective view of the proximal end portion of the anvil of the surgical end effector of Figure 49;

Fig. 51 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a passageway and a portion of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Fig. 49 with the anvil lock in a locked position;

52 is a partial side elevational view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position and its anvil lock shown in phantom in a locked position;

Figure 53 is a side elevational view of a portion of the anvil of the surgical end effector of Figure 52;

Figure 54 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the anvil of Figure 53;

Figure 55 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a passageway and a portion of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Figure 52 with the anvil lock in a locked position;

Figure 56 is another partial cutaway perspective view of a passageway and a portion of the anvil lock of the surgical end effector of Figure 52 with the anvil lock in an unlocked position;

Figure 57 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 52 with the anvil in a closed position and its anvil lock shown in phantom in an unlocked position;

Figure 58 is a partial perspective view of another anvil;

Figure 59 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a portion of another channel that may be used in conjunction with the anvil of Figure 58;

Figure 60 is a side elevational view of a portion of another anvil;

Figure 61 is a perspective view of a portion of the anvil of Figure 60;

Figure 62 is a perspective view of a portion of another anvil;

Figure 63 is a side elevational view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position prior to installing a surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 64 is another side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 63 after a compatible surgical staple cartridge has been installed therein;

Figure 65 is an end elevational view of the surgical end effector closure tube of the surgical end effector of Figure 63 with its closure latch in a locked position;

Figure 66 is another end elevation view of the surgical end effector closure tube and closure latch of Figure 65, with the closure latch shown in an unlocked position;

67 is a partial perspective view of a portion of the surgical end effector of FIG. 63 that is compatible with a surgical staple cartridge and closure lock;

Figure 68 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 63 with its anvil in an open position and prior to installing a surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 69 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 68 with its anvil in an open position and during installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 70 is a partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 68 with its anvil in an open position and during initial installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 71 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 70 with its anvil in an open position and after a compatible surgical staple cartridge has been operably seated therein;

Figure 72 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a portion of the compatible surgical staple cartridge shown in Figures 70 and 71;

Fig. 73 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Fig. 70 with its anvil in an open position and a surgical staple cartridge lacking a compatible cam action assembly in a starting position during its installation;

Figure 74 is a partial side elevational view of another surgical end effector with its anvil in an open position and during initial installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 75 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 74 with its anvil in an open position and after a compatible surgical staple cartridge has been operably seated therein;

Figure 76 is a perspective view of the anvil lock and channel mounting features of the surgical end effector of Figures 74 and 75;

Figure 77 is a perspective view of a portion of a surgical staple cartridge compatible with the surgical end effector of Figures 74 and 75;

Figure 78 is another partial side elevational view of the surgical end effector of Figure 74 with its anvil in an open position and after an incompatible surgical staple cartridge has been positioned therein;

Figure 79 is a side elevational view of another surgical end effector with a compatible surgical staple cartridge loaded and its anvil in an open position;

Fig. 80 is a top view of a portion of a surgical staple cartridge compatible with the surgical end effector of Fig. 79, with portions thereof omitted for clarity;

81 is a partial cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 80 installed in the surgical end effector of FIG. 79, taken along line 81-81 in FIG. 80, showing the cartridge nose in a locked position components;

Fig. 82 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of Fig. 80 installed in the surgical end effector of Fig. 79, taken along line 82-82 in Fig. 80, shown in an unlocked position warehouse nose assembly;

Fig. 83 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of Fig. 80 installed in the surgical end effector of Fig. 79, taken along line 83-83 in Fig. 80, shown in a locked position warehouse nose assembly;

Fig. 84 is another partial cross-sectional side view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of Fig. 80 installed in the surgical end effector of Fig. 79, taken along line 84-84 in Fig. 80, shown in an unlocked position warehouse nose assembly;

Figure 85 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the firing member and cam action assembly of the surgical staple cartridge with the cam action assembly in the home position and locked and unlocked engagement with the firing member on the firing member;

Figure 86 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the firing member of Figure 85 with the firing member lock in the locked position;

87 is a side elevational view of a portion of an anvil of another surgical end effector with the anvil in an open position relative to a compatible surgical staple cartridge mounted in a corresponding channel, the channel omitted for clarity;

Figure 88 is another side elevation view of the anvil and surgical staple cartridge of Figure 87 during initial closure of the anvil;

Figure 89 is another side elevation view of the anvil and surgical staple cartridge of Figure 87 after the anvil has been moved to a closed position;

Figure 90 is a perspective view of a portion of the compatible surgical staple cartridge shown in Figures 87-89;

Figure 91 is a partial bottom view of the anvil of Figures 87-89;

Figure 92 is a perspective view of a portion of a surgical staple cartridge that is not compatible with the anvil of Figures 87-89;

93 is a side elevational view of the anvil of FIGS. 87-89 in an open position relative to the incompatible surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 92 mounted in a corresponding channel, the channel being omitted for clarity;

Figure 94 is another side elevation view of the anvil and surgical staple cartridge of Figure 93 during initial closure of the anvil;

Figure 95 is another side elevational view of the anvil and surgical staple cartridge of Figure 93 after the anvil has been moved to a closed position;

96 is a partial cutaway side view of a portion of another surgical end effector with a compatible surgical staple cartridge loaded and its anvil omitted for clarity;

Figure 97 is a top view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge and surgical end effector of Figure 96;

Figure 98 is a perspective view of a portion of the proximal end of the compatible surgical staple cartridge shown in Figure 97;

Fig. 99 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Fig. 96 showing the installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

Fig. 100 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Fig. 96 showing the installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge therein;

Figure 101 is a top view of the surgical end effector and compatible surgical staple cartridge of Figure 98;

Fig. 102 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Fig. 96 showing the installation of an incompatible surgical staple cartridge;

Fig. 103 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Fig. 96 showing the installation of an incompatible surgical staple cartridge;

Figure 104 is a top view of the surgical end effector and incompatible surgical staple cartridge of Figure 103;

Fig. 105 is another partial cutaway side view of a portion of the surgical end effector of Fig. 96 showing the installation of an incompatible surgical staple cartridge;

Figure 106 is a top view of the surgical end effector and incompatible surgical staple cartridge of Figure 105;

Figure 107 is a partial cutaway perspective view of portions of another surgical end effector with an incompatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

Figure 108 is a partial top view of the surgical end effector and portions of the incompatible surgical staple cartridge of Figure 107;

Figure 109 is another partial top view of the surgical end effector of Figure 105 with a compatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

110 is a partial cutaway perspective view of portions of another surgical end effector with a compatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

Figure 111 is a partially exploded assembled view of portions of the surgical end effector of Figure 110;

Figure 112 is a partial cutaway end view of the surgical end effector and compatible surgical staple cartridge of Figure 110;

Figure 113 is another partial cutaway surgical end view of the end effector of Figure 110 with an incompatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

114 is another partial cutaway perspective view of portions of the surgical end effector of FIG. 110 with an incompatible surgical staple cartridge installed therein;

Figure 115 is a top view of the surgical end effector and surgical staple cartridge of Figure 114;

Figure 116 is a top view of a portion of another surgical staple cartridge;

Figure 117 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of Figure 116 with its camming assembly in a locked position;

Figure 118 is another top view of the surgical staple cartridge of Figure 116 interfaced with a compatible actuator portion of a surgical end effector;

Figure 119 is another partial cutaway perspective view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of Figure 116 with its cam action assembly in an unlocked position;

120 is a partial front view of a stapling instrument shown with some components removed, the stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, and a firing member, wherein the firing member is in a position in accordance with at least one embodiment, according to at least one embodiment unfired position;

Fig. 121 is a partial elevation view of the stapling instrument of Fig. 120, showing the firing member in a locked position;

122 is a partial front view of a stapling instrument shown with some components removed, the stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, and a firing member, wherein the firing member is in a position in accordance with at least one embodiment, according to at least one embodiment unfired position;

Figure 123 is a partial front view of the stapling instrument of Figure 122, showing the firing member in an unlocked position;

Fig. 124 is a partial elevation view of the stapling instrument of Fig. 122, showing the firing member in a locked position;

Figure 125 is a partial bottom view of the stapling instrument of Figure 122, showing the firing member in an unfired position;

Figure 126 is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge of Figure 122;

127 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

128 is a partial front view of a stapling instrument shown with some components removed, the stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, and a firing member, wherein the firing member is in accordance with at least one embodiment, according to at least one embodiment unfired position;

Figure 129 is a partial elevation view of the stapling instrument of Figure 128, showing the firing member in an unlocked position;

Figure 130 is a partial top view of the stapling instrument of Figure 128 shown in the unfired position of Figure 128;

Figure 131 is a partial top view of the stapling instrument of Figure 128 shown in the unlocked position of Figure 129;

132 is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 128 in an unexhausted configuration;

133 is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 128 in an exhausted configuration;

134 is a partial front view of a stapling instrument shown with some components removed, the stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, and a firing member, wherein the firing member is in accordance with at least one embodiment, according to at least one embodiment unfired position;

Fig. 135 is a partial elevation view of the stapling instrument of Fig. 134, showing the firing member in a locked position;

Figure 136 is a partial perspective view of a stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, a firing member, and a firing member lock, shown with some components removed, according to at least one embodiment, wherein the firing member has been unlocked by the cartridge;

Figure 137 is a fragmentary elevation view of the stapling instrument of Figure 136 showing an incorrect staple cartridge seated in the cartridge channel;

Figure 138 is a partial cutaway plan view of the stapling instrument of Figure 136 showing an incorrect staple cartridge seated in the cartridge channel;

Figure 139 is a partial cutaway plan view of the stapling instrument of Figure 136 showing the firing member lock unlocked by the staple cartridge;

140 is a partial cross-sectional view of a stapling instrument that has been unlocked with a staple cartridge, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

141 is a partial cross-sectional view of a stapling instrument that has been unlocked with a staple cartridge, according to at least one alternative embodiment;

Figure 142 is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge of Figure 140;

Figure 143 is a partial perspective view of the staple cartridge of Figure 141;

144 is a partial cutaway perspective view of a staple cartridge tray in accordance with at least one embodiment;

145 is a partial perspective view of a stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, a firing member, and a firing member lock, shown with some components removed, according to at least one embodiment, wherein the firing member is unlocked by the cartridge;

Figure 146 is a partial perspective view of the stapling instrument of Figure 145 showing a different staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel without unlocking the firing member;

Figure 147 is a partial perspective view of the stapling instrument of Figure 145 showing the firing member in a locked configuration;

Figure 148 is a partial perspective view of a stapling instrument configured to be unlocked by the different staple cartridges of Figure 146;

Figure 149 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge similar to the staple cartridge of Figure 146 and configured to unlock the stapling instrument of Figure 148;

Figure 150 is a perspective view of a staple cartridge similar to the staple cartridge of Figure 145 and configured to unlock the stapling instrument of Figure 145;

151 is a partially exploded view of a stapling instrument shown with some components removed, the stapling instrument including a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge channel, a firing member, an anvil, and two locking with a firing member/anvil, wherein the stapling instrument is shown in a locked state;

Figure 152 is a partial perspective view of the stapling instrument of Figure 151 unlocked by inserting the staple cartridge into the cartridge channel;

Fig. 153 is a partial cross-sectional view of the stapling instrument of Fig. 151, showing the stapling instrument in the locked state of Fig. 151;

Fig. 154 is a partial cross-sectional view of the stapling instrument of Fig. 151, showing the stapling instrument in the unlocked state of Fig. 152;

Figure 155 is a perspective view of the firing member/anvil lock of Figure 151;

Figure 155A is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

155B is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

Figure 155C is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

Figure 155D is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

155E is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment;

156 is a partial cross-sectional view of a surgical stapling assembly including an anvil, a staple cartridge, a firing member, and a firing latch;

Figure 157 is a partial cross-sectional view of the firing member and firing latch of Figure 156 shown in an unlocked configuration;

Figure 158 is a partial cross-sectional view of the firing member and firing latch of Figure 156 shown in a locked configuration;

159 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of FIG. 156, wherein the surgical stapling assembly further includes an external access hole configured to allow a user to manually move the firing latch to an unlocked configuration using a separate latch key ;

Figure 160 is a perspective view of the latch member of the firing latch of Figure 156;

161 is a partial cross-sectional view of a surgical stapling assembly including a latch and an external access aperture configured to allow a user to manually move the firing latch to an unlocked configuration using a separate latch key type;

Figure 162 is a bottom plan view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 161;

163 is a partial cross-sectional view of a surgical stapling assembly including a firing member, a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge configured to be installed into the cartridge channel, and a latch, where the latch is shown in an unengaged configuration type;

Fig. 164 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of Fig. 163, wherein the latch is shown in an engaged configuration;

Figure 165 includes a front view of two staple cartridges, each including a different latch key;

Figure 166 is a graph showing knife lift timing provided by each latch key of the staple cartridge of Figure 165;

Figure 167 is a graph showing the knife lift displacement provided by each latch key of the staple cartridge of Figure 165;

Figure 168 is a perspective view of a first staple cartridge for use with a surgical stapling system, wherein the first staple cartridge includes a cartridge body, a disk, a slider, and a first latching key;

Figure 169 is a perspective view of a second staple cartridge for use with the surgical stapling system with which the first staple cartridge of Figure 168 is used, wherein the second staple cartridge includes a cartridge body, a disc, a slider, and a second latch key;

170 is a front view of a surgical stapling assembly including a firing member, a first jaw including a staple cartridge, a second jaw including an anvil movable relative to the first jaw, and a latch;

Figure 171 is a partial perspective view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170;

Figure 172 is a partial elevation view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170 with the staple cartridge not installed within the first jaw;

Figure 173 is a partial elevation view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170 with the staple cartridge installed within the first jaw;

Figure 174 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170 with the staple cartridge installed in the first jaw and the firing member in an unfired position;

Fig. 175 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of Fig. 170 with the staple cartridge installed in the first jaw and the firing member in a partially fired position;

Figure 176 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170 with the staple cartridge not installed within the first jaw and the firing member in the unfired position;

Figure 177 is a partial cross-sectional view of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170 with the staple cartridge not installed in the first jaw and the firing member in the locked position;

Fig. 178 is a partial elevation view of the surgical stapling assembly of Fig. 170 with the staple cartridge installed in the first jaw and the firing member in a partially fired position, with some components shown in hidden lines;

Figure 179 is a perspective view of the staple cartridge of the surgical stapling assembly of Figure 170, the staple cartridge including a latching key extending from a proximal end thereof;

Fig. 180 is a partial plan view of the staple cartridge of Fig. 179; and

181 is a partial plan view of a second staple cartridge configured for use with a system including the staple cartridge of FIG. 179, wherein the second staple cartridge includes a latch key that includes a different latch key than the staple cartridge of FIG. 179 configuration.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention in one form, and such exemplifications should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Detailed ways

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on the same date as the present application and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application entitled "METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER THAT HASSEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS", Attorney Docket No. END9020USNP1/180504-1M;

- US patent application entitled "surgical staplers with arrangements for maintaining a firing member thereof in a locked configuration unless a compatible cartridge hasbeen installed therein", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP2/180505-2;

- US patent application entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING CO-OPERATING LOCKOUT FEATURES", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP3/180505-3;

- US patent application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT AND ANEXTERIOR ACCESS ORIFICE TO PERMIT ARTIFICIAL UNLOCKING OF THE LOCKOUT", Attorney Docket No. END9021usnp4/180505-4;

- US Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH FEATURES FOR BLOCKINGADVANCEMENT OF A CAMMING ASSEMBLY OF AN INCOMPATIBLE CARTRIDGE INSTALLEDTHEREIN", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP5/180505-5;

- US patent application entitled "STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A DEACTIVATABLE LOCKOUT", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP6/18505-6;

- US patent application entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP7/180505-7;

- US Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH CARTRIDGE COMPATIBLE CLOSUREAND FIRING LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS", Attorney Docket No. END9021USNP8/180505-8;

- U.S. Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH FIRING MEMBER DRIVEN CAMMINGASSEMBLY THAT HAS an ONBOARD TISSUE CUTTING FEATURE", Attorney's Docket No. END9022USNP1/180508-1;

- US Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURESYSTEMS", Attorney Docket No. END9022USNP2/180508-2;

- US patent application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH ASYMMETRIC CLOSURE FEATURES", Attorney Docket No. END9022USNP3/180508-3;

- US patent application entitled "ROTARY DRIVEN FIRING MEMBERS WITH DIFFERENT ANVIL AND CHANNELENGAGEMENT FEATURES", Attorney Docket No. END9022USNP4/180508-4; and

- US Patent Application entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH SEPARATE ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSUREAND FIRING SYSTEMS AND FIRING MEMBER THAT ENGAGES BOTH JAWS WHILE FIRING", Attorney Docket No. END9022USNP5/180508-5.

The applicant of the present application has the following U.S. Provisional Patent Applications filed on February 19, 2019, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,310 entitled "METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER THAT HASSEPARATE ROTARY CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,319 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED LOCKOUT SYSTEMS"; and

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/807,309 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES WITH IMPROVED ROTARY DRIVEN CLOSURESYSTEMS".

The applicant of the present application has the following U.S. provisional patent applications filed on March 28, 2018, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,302 entitled "INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH encrypted COMMUNICATIONCAPABILITIES";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,294 entitled "DATA STRIPPING METHOD TO INTERROGATE PATIENT RECORDS ANDCREATE ANONYMIZED RECORD";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,300 entitled "SURGICAL HUB SITUATIONAL AWARENESS";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,309 entitled "SURGICAL HUB SPATIAL AWARENESS TO DETERMINE DEVICES INOPERATING THEATER";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,310 entitled "COMPUTER IMPLEMENTED INTERACTIVE SURGICAL SYSTEMS";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,291 entitled "USE OF LASER LIGHT AND RED-GREEN-BLUE COLORATION TO DETERMINEPROPERTIES OF BACK SCATTERED LIGHT";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,296 entitled "ADAPTIVE CONTROL PROGRAM UPDATES FOR SURGICAL DEVICES";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,333 entitled "CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS FOR CUSTOMIZATION ANDRECOMMENDATIONS TO A USER";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,327 entitled "CLOUD-BASED MEDICAL ANALYTICS FOR SECURITY AND AUTHENTICATION TRENDS AND REACTIVE MEASURES";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,315 entitled "DATA HANDLING AND PRIORITIZATION IN A CLOUD ANALYTICSNETWORK";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,313 entitled "CLOUD INTERFACE FOR COUPLED SURGICAL DEVICES";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,320 entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,307 entitled "AUTOMATIC TOOL ADJUSTMENTS FOR ROBOT-ASSISTED SURGICAL PLATFORMS"; and

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/649,323 entitled "SENSING ARRANGEMENTS FOR Robot-Assisted Surgical PLATFORMS".

The applicant of the present application has the following U.S. Provisional Patent Application filed on March 30, 2018, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62/650,887 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEMS WITH OPTIMIZED SENSING CAPABILITIES".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent application filed on December 4, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/209,423 entitled "METHOD OF COMPRESSING TISSUE WITHIN A STAPLING DEVICE ANDSIMULTANEOUSLY DISPLAYING THE LOCATION OF THE TISSUE WITHIN THE JAWS".

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on August 20, 2018, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,101 entitled "METHOD FOR FAbricating SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,183 entitled "REINFORCED DEFORMABLE ANVIL TIP FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVIL";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,150 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH STAPLE DIRECTING PROTRUSIONS ANDTISSUE STABILITY FEATURES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,098 entitled "FABRICATING TECHNIQUES FOR SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,140 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS WITH TISSUE STOP FEATURES CONFIGUREDTO AVOID TISSUE PINCH";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,081 entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,094 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE JAW CLOSUREARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,097 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS TOCONVERT LINEAR DRIVE MOTIONS TO ROTARY DRIVE MOTIONS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,104 entitled "POWERED ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLUTCHING ANDLOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR LINKING AN ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM TO A FIRINGDRIVE SYSTEM";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,119 entitled "ARTICULATABLE MOTOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITHDEDICATED ARTICULATION MOTOR ARRANGEMENTS";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 16/105,160 entitled "SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR MOTOR POWERED ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"; and

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/660,252 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER ANVILS".

The applicant of the present application owns the following US patent applications and US patents, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,185 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND REPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIESTHEREOF", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168642;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168649;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,221 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168646;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,209 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND FIRING MEMBERS THEREOF", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168645;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,198 entitled "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL END EFFECTORS ANDREPLACEABLE TOOL ASSEMBLIES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168644;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,240 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS AND ADAPTABLE FIRING MEMBERS THEREFOR", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168651;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,939 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168629;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,941 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FORSHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES ANDARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168630;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,943 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168631;

US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,950 entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTIONFEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168635;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,945 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168632;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,946 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168633;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,951 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAW OPENING FEATURES FOR INCREASINGA JAW OPENING DISTANCE", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168636;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,953 entitled "METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168637;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,954 entitled "FIRING MEMBERS WITH NON-PARALLEL JAW ENGAGEMENT FEATURES FORSURGICAL END EFFECTORS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168638;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,955 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH EXPANDABLE TISSUE STOPARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168639;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,948 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168584;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,956 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168640;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,958 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTINGFIRING SYSTEM ACTUATION UNLESS AN UNSPENT STAPLE CARTRIDGE IS PRESENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168641;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,947 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLECAVITIES THEREIN", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168634;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,896 entitled "METHOD FOR RESETTING A FUSE OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168597;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,898 entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENT TO ACCOMMODATE DIFFERENTTYPES OF STAPLES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168599;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,899 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING IMPROVED JAW CONTROL", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168600;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,901 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE AND STAPLE CARTRIDGE CHANNEL COMPRISING WINDOWS DEFINED THEREIN", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168602;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,902 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168603;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,904 entitled "STAPLE FIRING MEMBER COMPRISING A MISSING CARTRIDGE AND/ORSPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168605;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,905 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168606;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,907 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN END EFFECTOR LOCKOUTAND A FIRING ASSEMBLY LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168608;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,908 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168609;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,909 entitled "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MULTIPLE FAILED-STATE FUSE", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168610;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,920 entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168620;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,913 entitled "ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168614;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,914 entitled "METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OFSTAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168615;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,893 entitled "BILATERALLY ASYMMETRIC STAPLE-FORMING POCKET PAIRS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168594;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,929 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168626;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,911 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSING ANDFIRING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168612;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,927 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SMART STAPLE CARTRIDGES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168625;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,917 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPINGBREADTHS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168617;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,900 entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARYSIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168601;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,931 entitled "NO-CARTRIDGE AND SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FORSURGICAL STAPLERS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168627;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,915 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168616;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,897 entitled "STAPLE-FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING ZONED FORMING SURFACE GROOVES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168598;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,922 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FAILURE RESPONSE MODES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168622;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,924 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168624;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,910 entitled "ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168611;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,903 entitled "CLOSURE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168604;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,906 entitled "FIRING MEMBER PIN CONFIGURATIONS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168607;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,188 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH ASYMMETRICAL STAPLES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168585;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,192 entitled "STEPPED STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH TISSUE RETENTION AND GAPSETTING FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168643;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,206 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH DEFORMABLE DRIVER RETENTION FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168586;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,226 entitled "DURABILITY FEATURES FOR END EFFECTORS AND FIRING ASSEMBLIESOF SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168648;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,222 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITHPOSITIVE OPENING FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168647;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/386,236 entitled "CONNECTION PORTIONS FOR DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICALSTAPLING INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168650;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,887 entitled "METHOD FOR ATTACHING A SHAFT ASSEMBLY TO A SURGICALINSTRUMENT AND, ALTERNATIVELY, TO A SURGICAL ROBOT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168589;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,889 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRACTION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168590;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,890 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING SEPARATELY ACTUATABLE ANDRETRACTABLE SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168591;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,891 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPT THEOUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168592;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,892 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO ANARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OF THE SURGICAL SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168593;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,894 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168595;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,895 entitled "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND ARTICULATION LOCKOUTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168596;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,916 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168575;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,918 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168618;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,919 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168619;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,921 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBERCONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168621;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,923 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168623;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,925 entitled "JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OFA FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED CARTRIDGE ISINSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168576;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,926 entitled "AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOSURE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168577;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,928 entitled "PROTECTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN AMOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168578;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,930 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENINGFEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSING END EFFECTOR JAWS", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168579;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,932 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH ASYMMETRIC SHAFTARRANGEMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168628;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,933 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLELINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168580;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,934 entitled "ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR INAN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTUATION OF A JAW CLOSURE SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168581;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,935 entitled "LATERALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FORLOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT IN AN ARTICULATED CONFIGURATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168582;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/385,936 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKEAMPLIFICATION FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2018/0168583;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/318,996 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONS HAVING DIFFERENTCONFIGURATIONS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0297228;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,006 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING FASTENER CAVITIES INCLUDINGFASTENER CONTROL FEATURES", now US Patent 10,010,324;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/318,991 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZINGARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,833,241;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,004 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,844,369;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,008 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0297232;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/318,997 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGINGMEMBERS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0297229;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,002 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES", now US Patent 9,877,721;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,013 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVERARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0297233; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/319,016 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED THERETO", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0297235.

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,775 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0367695;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,807 entitled "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPEDSTAPLES", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0367696;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,834 entitled "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0367699;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,788 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0367698; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/191,818 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL STAPLE ROWS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0367697.

The applicant of the present application has the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,218 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER", now US Design Patent D826,405;

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,227 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER", now US Design Patent D822,206;

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,259 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE"; and

- US Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/569,264 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGE".

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on April 1, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,325 entitled "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281171;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,321 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281163;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,326 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281172;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,263 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIPPORTION", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281165;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,262 entitled "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLEBAILOUT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281161;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,277 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVILCONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281166;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,296 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL ENDEFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT A SHAFT AXIS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281168;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,258 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281178;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,278 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVECUTTING OF TISSUE", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281162;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,284 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281186;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,295 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSIONLOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281187;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,300 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281179;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,196 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSURE LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281183;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,203 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281184;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,210 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGELOCKOUT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281185;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,324 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MECHANISM", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281170;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,335 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281155;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,339 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281173;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,253 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO APPLY ANNULAR ROWS OFSTAPLES HAVING DIFFERENT HEIGHTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281177;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,304 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281188;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,331 entitled "ANVIL MODIFICATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281180;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,336 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281164;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,312 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUESUPPORT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281189;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,309 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281169; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/089,349 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING LOAD CONTROL", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0281174.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified US patent applications filed on December 31, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,488 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAILURE INPOWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0189018;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,525 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0189019; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/984,552 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARABLE MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROLCIRCUITS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0189020.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified US patent applications filed on February 9, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,220 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLYTRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224333;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,228 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224342;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,196 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MECHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224330;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,206 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLYARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224331;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,215 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224332;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,227 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATIONLINK ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224334;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,235 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLEDRIVEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224336;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,230 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAMARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224335; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/019,245 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0224343.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following identified US patent applications filed on February 12, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,254 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0231623;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,259 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0231626;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,275 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0231627; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 15/043,289 entitled "MECHANISMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAILURE IN POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2017/0231628.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on June 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,925 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENINGARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0367256;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,941 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSINGFEATURES", now US Patent 10,052,102;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,914 entitled "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0367255;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,900 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAMSTRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBER FOR ARTICULATION SUPPORT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0367254;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,885 entitled "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0367246; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/742,876 entitled "PUSH/PULL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 10,178,992.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on March 6, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,746 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,808,246;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,795 entitled "MULTIPLE LEVEL THRESHOLDS TO MODIFY OPERATION OF POWEREDSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/02561185;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,832 entitled "ADAPTIVE TISSUE COMPRESSION TECHNIQUES TO ADJUST CLOSURERATES FOR MULTIPLE TISSUE TYPES", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256154;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,935 entitled "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TOMEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256071;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,831 entitled "MONITORING SPEED CONTROL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTORFOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,895,148;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,859 entitled "TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINESTABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES", now US Patent 10,052,044;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,817 entitled "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 9,924,961;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,844 entitled "CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR CONTAINED WITHIN MODULARSHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROL PROCESSING FROM HANDLE", now US Patent 10,045,776;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,837 entitled "SMART SENSORS WITH LOCAL SIGNAL PROCESSING", now US Patent 9,993,248;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,765 entitled "SYSTEM FOR DETECTING THE MIS-INSERTION OF A STAPLE CARTRIDGEINTO A SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256160;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,799 entitled "SIGNAL AND POWER COMMUNICATION SYSTEM POSITIONED ON AROTATABLE SHAFT", now US Patent 9,901,342; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/640,780 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A LOCKABLE BATTERY HOUSING", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0256161.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on February 27, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,576 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSPECTION STATION", now US Patent 10,045,779;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,546 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO ASSESS WHETHER A PERFORMANCEPARAMETER OF THE SURGICAL APPARATUS IS WITHIN AN ACCEPTABLE PERFORMANCE BAND", now US Patent 10,180,463;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,560 entitled "SURGICAL CHARGING SYSTEM THAT CHARGES AND/OR CONDITIONS ONEOR MORE BATTERIES", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249910;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,566 entitled "CHARGING SYSTEM THAT ENABLES EMERGENCY RESOLUTIONS FORCHARGING A BATTERY", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249918;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,555 entitled "SYSTEM FOR MONITORING WHETHER A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT NEEDS TOBE SERVICED", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249916;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,542 entitled "REINFORCED BATTERY FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,931,118;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,548 entitled "POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249909;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,526 entitled "ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249945;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,541 entitled "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY", now US Patent Application 9,993,258; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/633,562 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFEPARAMETER", now US Patent 10,159,483.

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on December 18, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,478 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE ENDEFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER", now US Patent 9,844,374;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,483 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174969;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,139 entitled "DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,844,375;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,148 entitled "LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITHARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS", now US Patent 10,085,748;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,130 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLEABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE, now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0174972;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,143 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 10,004,501;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,117 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDMOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,943,309;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/575,154 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS ANDIMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,968,355;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,493 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now US Patent 9,987,000; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/574,500 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLEARTICULATION SYSTEM", now US Patent 10,117,649;

The applicant of the present application has the following patent applications filed on March 1, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,295 entitled "Articulatable Surgical Instruments With Conductive Pathways For Signal Communication", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246471;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,323 entitled "Rotary Powered Articulation Joints For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246472;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,338 entitled "Thumbwheel Switch Arrangements For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0249557;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,499 entitled "Electromechanical Surgical Device with Signal Relay Arrangement", now US Patent Application Publication 9,358,003;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,460 entitled "Multiple Processor Motor Control for Modular Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246478;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,358 entitled "Joystick Switch Assemblies For Surgical Instruments", now US Patent Application Publication 9,326,767;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,481 entitled "Sensor Straightened End Effector During Removal ThroughTrocar", now US Patent Application Publication 9,468,438;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,518 entitled "Control Methods for Surgical Instruments with RemovableImplement Portions", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0246475;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,375 entitled "Rotary Powered Surgical Instruments With Multiple Degrees of Freedom", now US Patent Application Publication 9,398,911; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/782,536 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP", now US Patent Application Publication 9,307,986.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 14, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,097 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now US Patent 9,687,230;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,193 entitled "CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 9,332,987;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,053 entitled "INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,883,860;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,210 entitled "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FORSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,808,244;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,148 entitled "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263554;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,066 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,629,623;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,117 entitled "ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 9,351,726;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,130 entitled "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 9,351,727; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,159 entitled "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,888,919;

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent application filed on March 7, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/200,111 entitled "CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 9,629,629.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on March 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,106 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272582;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,099 entitled "STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT", now US Patent 9,826,977;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,094 entitled "VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272580;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,117 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUITAND WAKE UP CONTROL", now US Patent 10,013,049;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,075 entitled "MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFTASSEMBLIES", now US Patent 9,743,929;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,093 entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICALINSTRUMENTS", now US Patent 10,028,761;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,116 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272571;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,071 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETYPROCESSOR", now US Patent 9,690,362;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,097 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS", now US Patent 9,820,738;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,126 entitled "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication 10,004,497;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,133 entitled "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0272557;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,081 entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT", now US Patent 9,804,618;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,076 entitled "POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLEVOLTAGE PROTECTION", now US Patent 9,733,663;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,111 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent 9,750,499; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,125 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT", now US Patent Application Publication 2015/0280384.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on September 5, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,103 entitled "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent 10,111,679;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,119 entitled "ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUECOMPRESSION", now US Patent 9,724,094;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,908 entitled "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION", now US Patent 9,737,301;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/478,895 entitled "MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'SOUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION", now US Patent 9,757,128;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,110 entitled "POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET TO IDENTIFY CARTRIDGE TYPE", now US Patent 10,016,199;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,098 entitled "SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION", now US Patent 10,135,242;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,115 entitled "MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", now US Patent 9,788,836; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/479,108 entitled "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION", now US Patent Application Publication 2016/0066913.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 9, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,590 entitled "MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVESHAFTS", now US Patent 9,826,976;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,581 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRINGDRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT", now US Patent 9,649,110;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,595 entitled "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING FIRST AND SECOND DRIVE SYSTEMS", now US Patent 9,844,368;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,588 entitled "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0309666;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,591 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A GAP SETTING SYSTEM", now US Patent 10,149,680;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,584 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENTFEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS", now US Patent 9,801,626;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,587 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER", now US Patent 9,867,612;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,586 entitled "DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICALINSTRUMENT", now US Patent 10,136,887; and

- US Patent Application Serial No. 14/248,607 entitled "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUSINDICATION ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,814,460.

The applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications filed on April 16, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,365 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,376 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER";

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,382 entitled "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP";

- U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,385 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS ANDMOTOR CONTROL"; and

- US Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 61/812,372 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY ASINGLE MOTOR".

Numerous specific details are set forth herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the general structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are by way of non-limiting example, so that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative, and may be appreciated. Variations and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

The term "comprise" (and any form of "comprise" such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and "have" any form, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of "include", such as "includes" and "including" "), and "contain" (and any form of "contain" such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended copulas. Thus, a surgical system, device, or device that "comprises," "has," "comprises," or "contains" one or more elements has those one or more elements, but is not limited to having only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, apparatus, or device that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features has those one or more features, but is not limited to having only those one or more features feature part.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician, and the term "distal" refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It should also be understood that, for brevity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein in connection with the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in a variety of surgical procedures and applications, including, for example, in conjunction with open surgery. With continued reference to this detailed description, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into the body in any manner, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in tissue, and the like. The working or end effector portion of the instrument can be inserted directly into the patient or through an access device having a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument can be advanced.

The surgical stapling system can include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the staple cartridge cannot be removed from the first jaw, or at least easily replaceable from the first jaw. The second jaw includes an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about the closing axis; however, other embodiments are contemplated in which the first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system also includes an articulation joint configured to allow rotation or articulation of the end effector relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are contemplated that do not include articulation joints.

The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a platform extending between the proximal and distal ends. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of tissue to be stapled, and the anvil is positioned on a second side of tissue. The anvil is moved toward the staple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the platform. The staples, which are removably stored in the cartridge body, can then be deployed into tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein, wherein the staples are removably stored in the staple cavities. The nail cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples are also possible.

The staples are supported by staple drivers in the cartridge body. The driver is movable between a first or unfired position and a second or fired position to fire staples from the staple cavity. The driver is retained in the cartridge body by a retainer that extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes a resilient member configured to grip and retain the retainer to the cartridge body. The driver can be moved between its unfired position and its fired position by means of a slide. The slider is movable between a proximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal position adjacent the distal end. The slider includes a plurality of ramp surfaces configured to slide under the driver toward the anvil and to lift the driver, and the staples are supported on the driver.

In addition to the above, the slider can also be moved distally by the firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the slider and urge the slider toward the distal end. A longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive a firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member also includes a first cam engaging the first jaw and a second cam engaging the second jaw. The first and second cams may control the distance or tissue clearance between the platform of the staple cartridge and the anvil as the firing member is advanced distally. The firing member also includes a knife configured to cut through tissue captured between the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable for the knife to be positioned at least partially proximate the ramp surface so that the nails are fired ahead of the knife.

FIG. 1 shows a surgical instrument 1010 including an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 operably coupled to a housing 1012. FIG. 2 shows the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 separated from the housing 1012 or handle 1014 . As can be seen in FIG. 3, the handle 1014 may include a pair of interconnectable handle housing segments 1016 and 1018, which may be interconnected by means of screws, snap features, adhesives, and the like. In the illustrated arrangement, handle housing segments 1016 and 1018 cooperate to form a pistol grip portion 1019 . 1 and 3 illustrate a motor-driven surgical cutting and fastening instrument 1010 that may or may not be reusable. In the illustrated embodiment, the instrument 1010 includes a previous housing 1012 that includes a handle 1014 that is configured to be grasped, manipulated, and actuated by a clinician. Housing 1012 is configured for operative attachment to an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 having a surgical end effector 1300 operably coupled thereto that is configured to enable Perform one or more surgical tasks or surgical procedures. With continued reference to this detailed description, it will be appreciated that the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can also be effectively used in conjunction with robotically controlled surgical systems. Thus, the term "housing" may also encompass a housing or similar portion of a robotic system that houses or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system configured to generate and apply forces useful for actuation as described herein. At least one control action of the disclosed interchangeable shaft assemblies and their corresponding equivalents. Additionally, various components may be "housed" or contained within, or "associated with" the housing. In such cases, the components may not be contained within or directly supported by the housing. The term "frame" may refer to a portion of a hand-held surgical instrument. The term "frame" may also refer to a portion of a robotically controlled surgical instrument and/or a portion of a robotic system that may be used to operatively control a surgical instrument. For example, the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in US Patent 9,072,535, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS," which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Incorporated herein.

The previous housing 1012 shown in FIG. 1 is shown in conjunction with an interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 ( FIGS. 2 , 4 and 5 ) that includes an end effector 1300 that includes an end effector configured to A surgical cutting and fastening device in which a surgical staple cartridge 4000 can be operably supported. The housing 1012 can be configured for use in conjunction with an interchangeable shaft assembly including an end effector adapted to support different sizes and types of staple cartridges with different shaft lengths, size and type, etc. In addition, the housing 1012 is also effective for use with a variety of other interchangeable shaft assemblies, including those configured to enable application of other actions and forms of energy, such as, for example, radio frequency (RF) energy, ultrasonic energy, and/or motion to Those components of end effector arrangements suitable for use in connection with various surgical applications and procedures. Additionally, the end effector, shaft assembly, handle, surgical instrument, and/or surgical instrument system may utilize any suitable fasteners that can be grasped and manipulated by a clinician. As will be discussed in further detail below, the handle 1014 operably supports a plurality of drive systems therein that are configured to generate and apply various control actions to operably attached thereto. The corresponding part of the interchangeable shaft assembly.

Referring now to FIG. 3, the handle 1014 may also include a frame 1020 that operably supports a plurality of drive systems. For example, the frame 1020 operably supports a "first" or closing drive system, generally designated 1030, that can be used to apply closing and opening actions to operably attached or coupled thereto The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200. In at least one form, the closure drive system 1030 can include an actuator in the form of a closure trigger 1032 pivotally supported by the frame 1020 . More specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 , closure trigger 1032 is pivotally coupled to handle 1014 via pin 1033 . This configuration enables the closure trigger 1032 to be manipulated by the clinician such that when the clinician grasps the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle portion 1014, the closure trigger 1032 can be easily initiated or "unactuated" by it. The position is pivoted to an "actuated" position, and more specifically, to a fully compressed or fully actuated position. The closure trigger 1032 may be biased to the unactuated position by a spring or other biasing arrangement (not shown). In various forms, the closure drive system 1030 also includes a closure linkage assembly 1034 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032 . As can be seen in FIG. 3 , the closure link assembly 1034 may include a first closure link 1036 and a second closure link 1038 pivotally coupled to the closure trigger 1032 by a pin 1035 . The second closure link 1038 may also be referred to herein as an "attachment member" and includes a lateral attachment pin 1037 .

Still referring to FIG. 3 , it can be observed that the first closure link 1036 may have a locking wall or locking end 1039 thereon configured to be releasable with a closure pivotally coupled to the frame 1020 Assembly 1060 mates. In at least one form, the closure release assembly 1060 can include a release button assembly 1062 having a distally protruding locking pawl 1064 formed thereon. The release button assembly 1062 can be pivoted in a counterclockwise direction by a release spring (not shown). When the clinician presses the closure trigger 1032 from its unactuated position towards the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014, the first closure link 1036 pivots upward to a point where the locking pawl 1064 falls to remain engaged with the locking wall 1039 on the first closure link 1036, preventing the closure trigger 1032 from returning to the unactuated position. Thus, the closure release assembly 1060 serves to lock the closure trigger 1032 in the fully actuated position. When the clinician desires to unlock the closure trigger 1032 to allow it to be biased to the unactuated position, the clinician need only pivot the release button assembly 1062 so that the locking pawl 1064 moves into engagement with the latch on the first closure link 1036 Locking wall 1039 disengages. When the locking pawl 1064 has moved out of engagement with the first closure link 1036, the closure trigger 1032 can pivot back to the unactuated position. Other closure trigger locking and releasing arrangements may also be employed.

Arm 1061 can extend from release button assembly 1062 . Magnetic elements 1063 such as permanent magnets may be mounted to the arm 1061, for example. When the release button assembly 1062 is rotated from its first position to its second position, the magnetic element 1063 can move toward the circuit board 1100 . The circuit board 1100 may include at least one sensor configured to detect movement of the magnetic element 1063 . In at least one embodiment, for example, a "Hall Effect" sensor (not shown) may be mounted to the bottom surface of circuit board 1100 . The Hall effect sensor may be configured to detect changes in the magnetic field that occur around the Hall effect sensor caused by movement of the magnetic element 1063 . The Hall effect sensor can be in signal communication with, for example, a microcontroller that can determine whether the release button assembly 1062 is in its first configuration associated with the unactuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and the open configuration of the end effector. A position, its second position associated with the actuated position of the closure trigger 1032 and the closed configuration of the end effector, and/or any position between the first and second positions.

In at least one form, the handle 1014 and the frame 1020 can operably support another drive system, referred to herein as a firing drive system 1080, that is configured to be interchangeable with a drive system attached thereto. The corresponding portion of the shaft assembly applies the firing action. The firing drive system 1080 may also be referred to herein as a "second drive system." The firing drive system 1080 may employ an electric motor 1082 located in the pistol grip portion 1019 of the handle 1014. In various forms, the motor 1082 may be, for example, a DC brush drive motor with a maximum rotation of about 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor may comprise a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor 1082 may be powered by a power source 1090 , which in one form may include a removable power pack 1092 . As can be seen in FIG. 3 , for example, the power pack 1092 can include a proximal housing portion 1094 configured for attachment to a distal housing portion 1096 . Proximal housing portion 1094 and distal housing portion 1096 are configured to operably support a plurality of batteries 1098 therein. Batteries 1098 may each include, for example, lithium ion ("LI") or other suitable batteries. The distal housing portion 1096 is configured for removably operative attachment to the circuit board 1100 that is also operatively coupled to the motor 1082 . A plurality of batteries 1098 that can be connected in series can be used as a power source for the surgical instrument 1010. Additionally, the power source 1090 may be replaceable and/or rechargeable.

As outlined above with respect to the various other forms, the electric motor 1082 may include a rotatable shaft (not shown) operatively interfacing with a gear reducer assembly 1084 that drives a set or rack of gears Teeth 1122 are mounted on the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 in meshing engagement. In use, the polarity of the voltage provided by the power source 1090 can operate the electric motor 1082 in a clockwise direction, wherein the polarity of the voltage applied to the electric motor by the battery can be reversed to operate the electric motor 1082 in a counterclockwise direction. When the electric motor 1082 is rotated in one direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in the distal direction "DD". When the motor 82 is driven in the opposite rotational direction, the drive member 1120 will be driven axially in the proximal direction "PD". The handle 1014 may include a switch configured to reverse the polarity applied to the electric motor 1082 by the power source 1090 . As with the other forms described herein, the handle 1014 may also include a sensor configured to detect the position of the drive member 1120 and/or the direction in which the drive member 1120 is moving.

Actuation of the motor 1082 may be controlled by a firing trigger 1130 pivotally supported on the handle 1014 . The firing trigger 1130 is pivotable between an unactuated position and an actuated position. The firing trigger 1130 may be biased to the unactuated position by the spring 1132 or other biasing formation, such that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 1130, the firing trigger may be pivoted or otherwise returned to the unactuated position by the spring 1132 or the biasing formation. Actuation position. In at least one form, the firing trigger 1130 may be positioned "outside" the closure trigger 1032, as discussed above. In at least one form, the firing trigger safety button 1134 can be pivotally mounted to the closure trigger 1032 by the pin 1035 . A safety button 1134 can be positioned between the firing trigger 1130 and the closing trigger 1032 and has a pivot arm 1136 projecting therefrom. See Figure 3. When the closure trigger 1032 is in the unactuated position, the safety button 1134 is housed in the handle 1014 where the button may not be easily accessible by a clinician or in a safe place to prevent actuation of the firing trigger 1130 The position is moved between a firing position where the firing trigger 1130 can be fired. When the clinician presses the closure trigger 1032, the safety button 1134 and firing trigger 1130 pivot downward and can then be manipulated by the clinician.

As described above, in at least one form, the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 has a rack of teeth 1122 formed thereon for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear 1086 of the gear reducer assembly 1084 . At least one form also includes a manually actuatable "emergency" assembly 1140 configured to enable a clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 1120 if the motor 1082 becomes inoperative. The emergency assembly 1140 may include a lever or emergency handle assembly 1142 configured to be manually pivotable into ratchet engagement with teeth 1124 also provided in the drive member 1120 . Thus, the clinician can manually retract the drive member 1120 using the emergency handle assembly 1142 to ratchet the drive member 1120 in the proximal direction "PD". US Patent 8,608,045 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM" discloses emergency arrangements and other components, arrangements and systems that may also be used with the various apparatuses disclosed herein. US Patent 8,608,045 is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Turning now to FIGS. 2 and 5 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a surgical end effector 1300 that includes an elongated channel 1310 configured to operably support a staple cartridge 4000 therein. The end effector 1300 may also include an anvil 2000 pivotally supported relative to the elongated channel 1310 . The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include an articulation joint 3020 and an articulation lock 2140, which may be configured to releasably retain the end effector 1300 in a desired position relative to the shaft axis SA. Examples of various features of at least one form of end effector 1300, articulation joint 3020, and articulation lock can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. entitled "ARTICULATABLESURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", filed March 14, 2013 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541). The complete disclosure of US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541 ), filed March 14, 2013, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", is hereby incorporated by reference This article. As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include a proximal housing or nozzle 1201 comprised of nozzle portions 1202 and 1203 .

The interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include a closure system or closure member assembly 3000 that may be used to close and/or open the anvil 2000 of the end effector 1300 . The shaft assembly 1200 can include a spine 1210 configured to: first, slidably support a firing member therein; and second, slidably support a closure member assembly 3000 extending around the spine 1210 . As can be seen in FIG. 5 , the distal end 1212 of the ridge 1210 terminates in an upper lug mounting feature 1270 and a lower lug mounting feature 1280 . The upper lug mounting feature 1270 has formed therein a lug slot 1272 adapted to mount and support the upper mounting connector 1274 therein. Similarly, the lower lug mounting feature 1280 has formed therein a lug slot 1282 adapted to mountably support the lower mounting connector 1284 therein. The upper mounting link 1274 includes therein a pivot socket 1276 adapted to rotatably receive therein a pivot pin 1292 formed at a proximal end portion attached to the elongated channel 1310 1312 on the channel cap or anvil holder 1290. The lower mounting link 1284 includes a lower pivot pin 1286 adapted to be received within a pivot hole 1314 formed in the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310 . See Figure 5. The lower pivot pin 1286 is vertically aligned with the pivot bearing socket 1276 to define an articulation axis AA about which the surgical end effector 1300 can articulate relative to the shaft axis SA. See Figure 2.

In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 1300 is selectively articulatable by the articulation system 2100 about the articulation axis AA. In one form, the articulation system 2100 includes a proximal articulation driver 2102 pivotally coupled to an articulation link 2120 . As can be seen most particularly in FIG. 5 , offset attachment lugs 2114 are formed on the distal end 2110 of the proximal articulation driver 2102 . A pivot hole 2116 is formed in the offset attachment lug 2114 and is configured to pivotally receive a proximal link pin 2124 formed on the proximal end 2122 of the articulation link 2120 therein. Distal end 2126 of articulation link 2120 includes pivot hole 2128 configured to pivotally receive channel pin 1317 formed on proximal end portion 1312 of elongated channel 1310 therein . Accordingly, axial movement of the proximal articulation driver 2102 will thereby impart an articulation motion to the elongated channel 1310, thereby articulating the surgical end effector 1300 relative to the spine 1210 about the articulation axis AA. More details regarding the construction and operation of the articulation system 2100 can be found in the various references incorporated herein by reference, including the U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 15/635,631, now US Patent Application Publication 2019/0000464, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. In various cases, the proximal articulation driver 2102 can be held in place by the articulation lock 2140 when the proximal articulation driver 2102 is not moving in a proximal or distal direction. Additional details regarding examples of articulation locks 2140 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 15/635,631, now US Patent Application Publication 2019/0000464, and other references incorporated herein by reference.

In various cases, spine 1210 can include a proximal end 1211 that is rotatably supported in base 1240 . In one arrangement, for example, proximal end 1211 of spine 1210 has threads 1214 formed thereon for threading attachment to spine bearing 1216 configured to be supported within base 1240 . See Figure 4. This arrangement facilitates the rotatable attachment of the spine 1210 to the base 1240 so that the spine 1210 can be selectively rotated relative to the base 1240 about the shaft axis SA.

Referring primarily to Figure 4, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 includes a closure shuttle 1250 that is slidably supported within a base 1240 such that the closure shuttle moves axially relative to the base. The closure shuttle 1250 includes a pair of proximally protruding hooks 1252 (FIG. 3) configured for attachment to an attachment pin 1037 that is attached to the second closure link 1038, as will be described below Discussed in further detail. In at least one example, closure member assembly 3000 includes a proximal closure member segment 3010 having a proximal end 3012 coupled to closure shuttle 1250 for rotation relative thereto. For example, U-shaped connector 1263 is inserted into annular slot 3014 in proximal end 3012 of proximal closure member segment 3010 and retained within vertical slot 1253 in closure shuttle 1250. Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure member segment 3010 to the closure shuttle 1250 to travel axially with the closure shuttle while enabling the proximal closure member segment 3010 to pivot relative to the closure shuttle 1250 The axis SA rotates. A closure spring 1268 journalled on the proximal closure member segment 3010 for biasing the proximal closure member segment 3010 in the proximal direction "PD" is available when the shaft assembly is operably coupled to the handle 1014 to pivot the closure trigger 1032 to the unactuated position.

In at least one form, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 may also include an articulation joint 3020 . However, other interchangeable shaft assemblies may not be able to articulate. As can be seen in FIG. 5 , for example, a distal closure member or distal closure tube segment 3030 is coupled to the distal end of the proximal closure member segment 3010 . Articulation joint 3020 includes dual pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022. According to various forms, the dual pivot closure sleeve assembly 3022 includes an end effector closure tube 3050 having an upper tang 3052 and a lower tang 3054 projecting distally. The upper dual pivot link 3056 includes an upwardly projecting distal pivot pin and a proximal pivot pin that respectively engage the upper distal portion of the proximally projecting upper tang 3052 on the distal closure tube segment 3030 Pin hole and upper proximal pin hole in distally projecting upper tang 3032. The lower dual pivot link 3058 includes an upwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins that engage a lower distal pin hole in the proximally projecting lower tang 3054 and a distally projecting, respectively. The lower proximal pin hole in the lower tang 3034. See Figures 4 and 5. As will be discussed in further detail below, the closure member assembly 3000 is translated distally (direction "DD") to close the anvil 2000 , eg, in response to actuation of the closure trigger 1032 . The anvil 2000 is opened by proximally translating the closure member assembly 3000, which interfaces the end effector closure tube 3050 with the anvil 2000 and pivots it to the open position.

Also as described above, the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 also includes a firing member 1900 that is supported for axial travel within the spine 1210 . The firing member 1900 includes an intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 configured for attachment to the distal cutting portion or shank 1910 . Intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 can include longitudinal slots 1223 in its distal end that can be configured to receive tabs 1912 on the proximal end of distal blade shank 1910 . The longitudinal slot 1223 and the proximal end tab 1912 can be sized and configured to allow relative movement between the longitudinal slot and the proximal end tab and can include a sliding joint 1914 . The sliding joint 1914 may allow movement of the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the firing member 1900 to articulate the end effector 1300 without moving the knife bar 1910, or at least substantially not moving the knife bar 1910. Once the end effector 1300 has been properly oriented, the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 can be advanced distally until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1223 comes into contact with the tab 1912 to advance the arbor 1910 and fire positioned in the channel Cartridge 4000 inside 1310. Knife bar 1910 includes knife portion 1920 that includes a blade or tissue cutting edge 1922 and includes upper anvil engagement tabs 1924 and lower channel engagement tabs 1926. Various firing member configurations and operations are disclosed in various other references incorporated herein by reference.

As can be seen in FIG. 4 , the shaft assembly 1200 also includes a switch barrel 1500 rotatably received on the proximal closure member segment 3010 . The switching cartridge 1500 includes a hollow shaft section 1502 having a shaft boss formed thereon for receiving an outwardly projecting actuating pin therein. In each case, the actuating pin extends through a longitudinal slot provided in the lock sleeve to facilitate axial movement of the lock sleeve with the lock sleeve engaged with the articulation driver. Rotary torsion spring 1420 is configured to engage a boss on switch cylinder 1500 and a portion of nozzle housing 1203 to apply a biasing force to switch cylinder 1500 . Switching cartridge 1500 may also include at least a portion of a peripheral opening 1506 defined therein that may be configured to receive peripheral mounting brackets extending from nozzle portions 1202, 1203 and permit relative rotation between switching cartridge 1500 and nozzle 1201 to prevent Not a relative translation. The mount also extends through the opening 3011 in the proximal closure member segment 3010 to be seated in the groove 1219 in the spine 1210. Rotation of the switch barrel 1500 about the shaft axis SA will ultimately cause rotation of the actuating pin and rotation of the lock sleeve between its engaged and disengaged positions. In one arrangement, rotation of the switching cartridge 1500 may be associated with axial advancement of the closure tube or closure member. Thus, in essence, actuation of the closure system may operatively engage and disengage the articulation drive system from the firing drive system in the various manners described in US Patent Application Serial No. entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK" No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and US Patent 9,913,642 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM", the entire disclosures of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein . For example, when the closure member segment 3010 is in its proximal-most position corresponding to the "jaws open" position, the closure member segment 3010 will have positioned the switching cartridge 1500 to connect the articulation system with the firing drive system. When the closure tube has moved to its distal position corresponding to the "jaw closed" position, the closure tube has rotated the switching barrel 1500 to a position in which the articulation system is disconnected from the firing drive system.

As also shown in FIG. 4, the shaft assembly 1200 may include a slip ring assembly 1600, which may be configured, for example, to conduct electrical power to and/or from the end effector 1300, and /or transmit signals to and/or receive signals from the end effector 1300. The slip ring assembly 1600 can include a proximal connector flange 1604 mounted to a base flange 1242 extending from the base 1240 and a distal connector flange positioned at the base 1240. Confined within a slot in the shaft housing. The proximal connector flange 1604 can include a first face, and the distal connector flange can include a second face, wherein the second face is positioned adjacent the first face and is movable relative to the first face. The distal connector flange is rotatable relative to the proximal connector flange 1604 about the shaft axis SA. The proximal connector flange 1604 can include a plurality of concentric or at least substantially concentric conductors defined in a first face thereof. The connector may be mounted on the proximal side of the connector flange and may have a plurality of contacts, where each contact corresponds to and is in electrical contact with one of the conductors. This arrangement allows relative rotation between the proximal connector flange 1604 and the distal connector flange while maintaining electrical contact between the two flanges. For example, proximal connector flange 1604 can include electrical connectors 1606 that can enable conductors to communicate in signal with shaft circuit board 1610 mounted to shaft base 1240 . In at least one instance, a wire harness including a plurality of conductors can extend between the electrical connector 1606 and the shaft circuit board 1610 . The electrical connector 1606 can extend proximally through the connector opening 1243 defined in the base flange 1242 . See Figure 4. For example, further details regarding slip ring assembly 1600 can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING ANARTICULATION LOCK", filed March 13, 2013 US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552) entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM" and US Patent 9,345,481 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM". US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541), US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552), and US Patent 9,345,481 are each hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety .

As discussed above, the shaft assembly 1200 can include a proximal portion that is fixedly mountable to the handle 1014, and a distal portion that is rotatable about a longitudinal axis. The rotatable distal shaft portion is rotatable relative to the proximal portion about the slip ring assembly 1600 as described above. The distal connector flange of slip ring assembly 1600 can be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. Also, in addition to the above, the switching cartridge 1500 may also be positioned within the rotatable distal shaft portion. When the rotatable distal shaft portion rotates, the distal connector flange and switching barrel 1500 can rotate in synchronization with each other. Additionally, the switching barrel 1500 is rotatable relative to the distal connector flange between a first position and a second position. When the switching cartridge 1500 is in its first position, the articulation drive system may be operably disengaged from the firing drive system, and thus, operation of the firing drive system may not articulate the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200. When the switching cartridge 1500 is in its second position, the articulation drive system can be operably engaged with the firing drive system, and thus, operation of the firing drive system can articulate the end effector 1300 of the shaft assembly 1200. As the switch barrel 1500 moves between its first position and its second position, the switch barrel 1500 moves relative to the distal connector flange. In various cases, shaft assembly 1200 may include at least one sensor configured to detect the position of switching cartridge 1500 .

Referring again to Figure 4, the base 1240 includes at least one, preferably two tapered attachment portions 1244 formed thereon, such attachment portions being adapted to be received within corresponding dovetail-shaped slots 1702 that are A slot is formed in the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. See Figure 3. Each dovetail slot 1702 may be tapered, or in other words, may be slightly V-shaped to receive the attachment portion 1244 therein in a seating manner. As can be further seen in FIG. 4 , a shaft attachment lug 1226 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 . As will be discussed in further detail below, when the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 is coupled to the handle 1014, the shaft attachment lugs 1226 are received by firing shaft attachments formed in the distal end 1125 of the longitudinal drive member 1120 in bracket 1126. See Figure 3.

Various shaft assembly embodiments employ a latch system 1710 for removably coupling the shaft assembly 1200 to the housing 1012 and, more specifically, to the frame 1020 . As seen in FIG. 4 , for example, in at least one form, latch system 1710 includes a lock member or locking yoke 1712 movably coupled to base 1240 . In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the locking yoke 1712 is U-shaped with two spaced apart and downwardly extending legs 1714. The legs 1714 each have pivot lugs 1715 formed thereon that are adapted to be received in corresponding holes 1245 formed in the base 1240 . This arrangement facilitates pivotal attachment of locking yoke 1712 to base 1240 . The locking yoke 1712 can include two proximally projecting locking lugs 1716 configured to engage with corresponding locking pawls or grooves 1704 in the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020. Releasably engage. See Figure 3. In various forms, the locking yoke 1712 is biased in the proximal direction by a spring or biasing member (not shown). Actuation of locking yoke 1712 may be accomplished by latch button 1722 slidably mounted on latch actuator assembly 1720 mounted to base 1240 . The latch button 1722 can be biased in a proximal direction relative to the locking yoke 1712 . As will be discussed in further detail below, the locking yoke 1712 can be moved to the unlocked position by biasing the latch button in the distal direction, which also pivots the locking yoke 1712 out of the distal attachment flange of the frame 1020 Portion 1700 remains engaged. The locking lugs 1716 remain seated within corresponding locking pawls or grooves 1704 in the distal attachment flange portion 1700 when the locking yoke 1712 is "retained" with the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020 .

When employing interchangeable shaft assemblies that include end effectors of the type described herein, as well as other types of end effectors suitable for cutting and securing tissue, it may be advantageous to prevent the interchangeable shaft assembly from performing at the end Inadvertent disengagement from the housing during actuator actuation. For example, in use, the clinician can actuate the closure trigger 1032 to grasp the target tissue and manipulate it into a desired position. Once the target tissue is positioned within the end effector 1300 in the desired orientation, the clinician can fully actuate the closure trigger 1032 to close the anvil 2000 and hold the target tissue in place for cutting and stapling. In this case, the first drive system 1030 has been fully actuated. After the target tissue has been clamped in the end effector 1300, it may be advantageous to prevent the shaft assembly 1200 from inadvertently disengaging from the housing 1012. One form of latch system 1710 is configured to prevent such inadvertent disengagement.

As best seen in FIG. 4 , the locking yoke 1712 includes at least one, and preferably two, locking hooks 1718 adapted to contact corresponding locking lug portions 1256 formed on the closure shuttle 1250 . With the closure shuttle 1250 in the unactuated position (ie, the first drive system 1030 is unactuated and the anvil 2000 is open), the locking yoke 1712 can pivot in the distal direction to lock the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 unlocks from housing 1012. In this position, the locking hook 1718 does not contact the locking lug portion 1256 on the closure shuttle 1250. However, with the closing shuttle 1250 moved to the actuated position (ie, the first drive system 1030 is actuated and the anvil 2000 is in the closed position), the locking yoke 1712 is blocked from pivoting to the unlocked position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to pivot the locking yoke 1712 to the unlocked position, or, for example, the locking yoke 1712 is inadvertently bumped or contacted in a manner that might otherwise have caused it to pivot distally, the locking yoke 1712 is placed on the locking yoke 1712. The locking hook 1718 will contact the locking lug portion 1256 on the closure shuttle 1250 and prevent the locking yoke 1712 from moving to the unlocked position.

The attachment of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 will now be described. To begin the coupling process, the clinician may position the base 1240 of the interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 over or near the distal attachment flange portion 1700 of the frame 1020 such that the tapered attachment portion 1244 formed on the base 1240 is in contact with the frame 1020 Dovetail slot 1702 in the alignment. The clinician can then move the shaft assembly 1200 along a mounting axis perpendicular to the shaft axis SA to position the attachment portion 1244 in "operative engagement" with the corresponding dovetail receiving slot 1702 . In doing so, the shaft attachment lug 1226 on the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 will also seat in the bracket 1126 in the longitudinally movable drive member 1120, and the portion of the pin 1037 on the second closure link 1038 will seat in the into corresponding hooks 1252 in the closing shuttle 1250 . As used herein, the term "operably engaged" in the context of two components means that the two components are sufficiently engaged with each other such that once an actuation action is applied thereto, the components can perform their intended actions, functions and/or or program.

At least five systems of interchangeable shaft assembly 1200 can be operably coupled with at least five corresponding systems of handle 1014 . The first system may include a frame system that couples and/or aligns the frame or spine of the shaft assembly 1200 with the frame 1020 of the handle 1014 . Another system can include a closure drive system 1030 that can operably connect the closure trigger 1032 of the handle 1014 with the closure tube 1260 of the shaft assembly 1200 and the anvil 2000. As outlined above, the closure shuttle 1250 of the shaft assembly 1200 can engage with the pin 1037 on the second closure link 1038 . Another system may include a firing drive system 1080 that may operably connect the firing trigger 1130 of the handle 1014 with the intermediate firing shaft portion 1222 of the shaft assembly 1200 . As outlined above, the shaft attachment lugs 1226 may be operably connected with the brackets 1126 of the longitudinal drive member 1120 . Another system may include an electrical system capable of: sending a signal to a controller (such as a microcontroller) in handle 1014 that a shaft assembly (such as shaft assembly 1200 ) has operably engaged with handle 1014 , and/ Alternatively, power and/or communication signals are conducted between the shaft assembly 1200 and the handle 1014 . For example, the shaft assembly 1200 may include an electrical connector 1810 operably mounted to the shaft circuit board 1610 . The electrical connectors 1810 are configured for mating engagement with corresponding electrical connectors 1800 on the handle control board 1100 . More details on the circuitry and control system can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 13/803,086 (now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263541) and US Patent Application Serial No. 14/226,142 (now US Patent 9,913,642), both of which The complete disclosures of each of these were previously incorporated herein by reference. The fifth system may consist of a latch system for releasably locking the shaft assembly 1200 to the handle 1014 .

In the illustrated example, anvil 2000 includes an anvil body 2002 that terminates in anvil mounting portion 2010 . Anvil mounting portion 2010 is movably or pivotably supported on elongated channel 1310 for selective pivoting relative to the elongated channel about a fixed anvil pivot axis PA transverse to shaft axis SA. In the illustrated arrangement, pivot members or anvil trunnions 2012 extend laterally out of each lateral side of anvil mounting portion 2010 to receive upstanding walls formed in proximal end portion 1312 of elongated channel 1310 1315 in the corresponding trunnion bracket 1316. Anvil trunnions 2012 are pivotally retained in their corresponding trunnion brackets 1316 by channel caps or anvil retainers 1290 . The channel cap or anvil retainer 1290 includes a pair of attachment lugs configured to be retainably received in upstanding walls 1315 formed in the proximal end portion 1312 of the elongated channel 1310 Corresponding lug grooves or notches. See Figure 5.

Still referring to Figure 5, in at least one arrangement, the distal closure member or end effector closure tube 3050 employs two axially offset proximal positive jaw opening features 3060 and distal positive jaw opening features 3062. The positive jaw opening features 3060, 3062 are configured to interface with corresponding relief areas and stepped portions formed on the anvil mounting portion 2010, as described in US Patent Application Serial entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AXIALLY MOVABLE CLOSURE MEMBER" Ser. No. 15/635,631, now described in further detail in US Patent Application Publication 2019/0000464, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Other jaw opening arrangements are available.

FIGS. 6-8 illustrate a previous surgical cutting and fastening instrument 5010 configured to generate a rotational drive action for operating a surgical end effector 5012. Endoscopic surgical instrument 5010 includes a handle 5006, a shaft 5008, and an articulating surgical end effector 5012 pivotally connected to the shaft 5008 at an articulation pivot 5014. Articulation controls 5016 may be provided adjacent the handle 5006 to enable rotation of the end effector 5012 about the articulation pivot 5014. It should be understood that various embodiments may include a non-pivoting end effector, and thus may not have an articulation pivot 5014 or articulation controls 5016.

The handle 5006 of the instrument 5010 can include a closure trigger 5018 and a firing trigger 5020 for actuating the end effector 5012. It should be understood that instruments with end effectors related to different surgical tasks may have different numbers or types of triggers or other suitable controls for operating the end effector 5012. In one embodiment, the clinician or operator of the instrument 5010 may articulate the end effector 5012 relative to the axis 5008 by utilizing the articulation controls 5016, as described in a pending titled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING ENDEFFECTOR" Described in more detail in US Patent 7,670,334, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In this example, the end effector 5012 includes, among other things, a staple channel 5022 and a pivotally translatable clamping member, such as an anvil 5024, held in a Ensure effective suturing and severing at the spacing of the tissue held in the end effector 5012. The handle 5006 includes a pistol grip 5026 towards which the clinician pivotally pulls the closure trigger 5018 to clamp or close the anvil 5024 towards the staple channel 5022 of the end effector 5012, thereby clamping Tissue positioned between the anvil 5024 and the channel 5022 is held.

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 7, in addition to the aforementioned channel 5022 and anvil 5024, the end effector 5012 includes a cutting instrument 5032, a slider 5033, a staple cartridge 5034 removably seated in the channel 5022, and Helical screw shaft 5036. Cutting instrument 5032 may be, for example, a knife. Anvil 5024 includes pivot pins 5025 that are movably supported in corresponding slots in channel 5022. In one arrangement, the anvil 5024 includes a tab 5027 at its proximal end that is inserted into a component of a mechanical closure system (described further below) to open and close the anvil 5024.

Still referring to FIG. 7 , shaft 5008 includes proximal closure tube 5040 and distal closure tube 5042 pivotally connected by pivot connection 5044 . The distal closure tube 5042 includes an opening 5045 into which the tabs 5027 on the anvil 5024 are inserted to open and close the anvil 5024, as described further below. A proximal spinal canal 5046 can be disposed within the closure canals 5040, 5042. A primary rotational (or proximal) drive shaft 5048 can be disposed within the proximal spinal canal 5046 in communication with the secondary (or distal) drive shaft 5050 via bevel gear assemblies 5052a-c. Secondary drive shaft 5050 is connected to drive gear 5054 which engages proximal drive gear 5056 of helical screw shaft 5036 . The vertical bevel gear 5052b can be located in and pivoted in an opening 5057 in the distal end of the proximal spinal canal 5046 . The distal spine 5058 can be used to enclose the secondary drive shaft 5050 and drive gears 5054, 5056. Primary drive shaft 5048, secondary drive shaft 5050, and articulation assemblies (eg, bevel gear assemblies 5052a-c) are sometimes collectively referred to herein as "primary drive shaft assemblies."

A bearing 5038 positioned at the distal end of the staple channel 5022 receives the helical screw shaft 5036, allowing the helical screw shaft 5036 to rotate freely relative to the channel 5022. The helical screw shaft 5036 can interface with a threaded opening (not shown) of the knife 5032, such that rotation of the helical screw shaft 5036 causes the knife 5032 to translate distally or proximally (depending on the direction of rotation) through the staple channel 5022.

Turning next to FIG. 8 , handle 5006 includes outer underside pieces 5059 , 5060 and nozzle pieces 5061 , 5062 that fit together to form the exterior of handle 5006 as a whole. A battery 5064 such as a lithium ion battery may be provided in the pistol grip 5026 of the handle 5006. A battery 5064 powers a motor 5065 disposed in the upper portion of the pistol grip portion 5026 of the handle portion 5006. Motor 5065 can drive 90° bevel gear assembly 5066 including first bevel gear 5068 and second bevel gear 5070 . The bevel gear assembly 5066 may drive the planetary gear assembly 5072 . Planetary gear assembly 5072 may include pinion gears 5074 connected to drive shaft 5076 . Pinion 5074 can drive a mating ring gear 5078 which drives helical gear drum 5080 via a drive shaft. Ring 5084 may be threaded on helical gear drum 5080. Thus, as the motor 5065 rotates, the ring 5084 is driven along the helical gear drum 5080 by the interposed bevel gear assembly 5066, the planetary gear assembly 5072 and the ring gear 5078.

The handle 5006 can include an intermediate handle member 5104 adjacent the upper portion of the firing trigger 5020. The handle 5006 may also include a biasing spring 5112 connected between the post on the intermediate handle member 5104 and the post on the firing trigger 5020. The biasing spring 5112 can bias the firing trigger 5020 to its fully open position. Thus, when the operator releases the firing trigger 5020, the biasing spring 5112 pulls the firing trigger 5020 to its open position. The distal end of the helical gear drum 5080 includes a distal drive shaft 5120 that drives a ring gear 5122 that mates with a pinion gear 5124. The pinion 5124 is connected to the main drive shaft 5048 of the main drive shaft assembly. As such, rotation of the motor 5065 causes the main drive shaft assembly to rotate, which results in actuation of the end effector 5012. Ring 5084 threaded onto helical gear drum 5080 may include posts 5086 disposed within slots 5088 of slotted arms 5090 . The slotted arm 5090 has an opening 5092 in its opposite end 5094 that receives a pivot pin 5096 connected between the handle outer pieces 5059,5060. Pivot pin 5096 is also disposed through opening 5100 in firing trigger 5020 and opening 5102 in intermediate handle member 5104.

Intermediate handle member 5104 includes rear shoulder 5106 that engages slotted arm 5090. The intermediate handle member 5104 also has a forward action stop 5107 that engages the firing trigger 5020. Movement of the slotted arm 5090 is controlled by the rotation of the motor 5065. As the slotted arm 5090 rotates counterclockwise as the ring 5084 travels from the proximal end to the distal end of the helical gear drum 5080, the intermediate handle member 5104 will be free to rotate counterclockwise. Thus, when the user pulls in on the firing trigger 5020, the firing trigger 5020 will engage the forward motion stop 5107 of the intermediate handle member 5104, thereby rotating the intermediate handle member 5104 counterclockwise. However, since the rear shoulder 5106 engages the slotted arm 5090, the intermediate handle member 5104 will only be able to rotate counterclockwise as far as the slotted arm 5090 allows. In this way, if the motor 5065 should stop rotating for some reason, the slotted arm 5090 will stop rotating and the user will not be able to pull the firing trigger 5020 any further because the middle handle member 5104 will not be free due to the slotted arm 5090 Earth rotates counterclockwise.

Also shown in FIG. 8 are components of an exemplary closure system for closing (or clamping) the anvil 5024 of the end effector 5012 by retracting the closure trigger 5018. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure system includes a yoke 5250 connected to the closure trigger 5018. The pivot pin 5252 is inserted through aligned openings in both the closure trigger 5018 and the yoke 5250 so that they both rotate about the same point. The distal end of yoke 5250 is connected to first closure bracket 5256 via pin 5254. The first closure bracket 5256 is connected to the second closure bracket 5258. The closure brackets 5256, 5258 collectively define an opening in which the proximal end of the proximal closure tube 5040 (see FIG. 7) is seated and retained such that longitudinal movement of the closure brackets 5256, 5258 causes the proximal closure tube 5040 Vertical action. Instrument 5010 also includes a closure drive shaft 5260 disposed within proximal closure tube 5040. The closure drive shaft 5260 may include a window 5261 in which a post 5263 is positioned on one of the handle outer members (such as the outer underside 5059 in the illustrated embodiment) to securely connect the closure drive shaft 5260 to the Handle 5006. In this way, the proximal closure tube 5040 is capable of longitudinal movement relative to the closure drive shaft 5260. The closure drive shaft 5260 may also include a distal collar 5267 that fits into a lumen in the proximal spinal canal 5046 and is held therein by a cap.

In operation, when yoke 5250 is rotated due to retraction of closure trigger 5018, closure brackets 5256, 5258 move proximal closure tube 5040 distally (ie, away from the handle end of instrument 5010), which causes The distal closure tube 5042 is moved distally, causing the anvil 5024 to rotate about the pivot pin 5025 to a clamped or closed position. When the closure trigger 5018 is unlocked from the locked position, the proximal closure tube 5040 is caused to slide proximally, which causes the distal closure tube 5042 to slide proximally by inserting the tab 5027 into the opening 5045 of the distal closure tube 5042 , the anvil 5024 is caused to pivot about the pivot pin 5025 into the open or released position. In this way, by retracting and locking the closure trigger 5018, the operator can clamp tissue between the anvil 5024 and the channel 5022, and can release the closure trigger 5018 from the locked position after the cutting/stapling operation organize. More details regarding the construction and operation of the existing surgical instrument 5010 can be found in US Patent 7,845,537, entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES," the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Other rotary drive arrangements configured for use with various forms of robotic systems are disclosed in US Patent Application Publication 2016/0287251 entitled "STAPLING END EFFECTOR CONFIGURED TO COMPENSATEFOR AN UNEVEN GAP BETWEEN A FIRST JAW AND A SECOND JAW" , the entire disclosure of this patent application publication is hereby incorporated by reference.

9-16 illustrate a surgical end effector 20012 that may be used, for example, in conjunction with the powered surgical instrument 5010 described above. The surgical end effector 20012 may also be effectively used with various other rotationally powered or robotic powered surgical systems disclosed in the various references incorporated herein by reference. Those components shown in FIGS. 9-16 that are identical to those of the powered surgical instrument 5010 have been labeled with similar part numbers. In the illustrated example, the surgical end effector 20012 includes an elongated channel 20020 configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 20040 therein. Apart from the noted differences, the elongated channel 20020 is similar to the channel 5022 described above. Turning to FIG. 10 , the elongated channel 20020 includes a pair of spaced apart upstanding walls 20022 and a bottom 20024 . The helical screw shaft 5036 is supported in the channel 20020 by a bearing 5038 which enables the helical screw shaft 5036 to rotate freely relative to the channel 20020. The surgical end effector 20012 also includes an anvil 5024 having a pivot pin or trunnion 5025 that is received in a corresponding slot 20026 provided in the upright channel wall 20022.

In the illustrated arrangement, the staple cartridge 20040 includes an elongated cartridge body 20042 sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 20020. The cartridge body 20042 includes a cartridge slot 20050 extending from the proximal end portion 20046 to the distal end portion 20044 of the cartridge body 20042. The cartridge body 20042 also includes a cartridge deck surface 20043 that faces the staple forming lower surface 5029 of the anvil 5024 when the cartridge 20040 is seated in the channel 20020 and the anvil 5024 is pivoted to the closed position. Also in the illustrated example, three rows of surgical staple pockets 20052 are formed on each side of the cartridge slot 20050 and open through the cartridge deck surface 20043. Each staple pocket 20052 can have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon.

Still referring to Figure 10, the staple cartridge 20040 also includes a cam action assembly 20060 that includes a cam action assembly body 20062 having a passageway 20064 therethrough configured to span the helical screw shaft 5036 without affecting its rotation. In other embodiments, the cam action assembly 20060 may have a series of internal threads (not shown) configured to threadably engage the helical screw shaft 5036 for drive therefrom. In such an arrangement, for example, the helical screw shaft 5036 may be provided with a non-threaded portion corresponding to the starting position of the cam action assembly 20060. Such cam action assembly arrangements are further described in various references which have been incorporated herein by reference. In the illustrated example, the cam action assembly 20060 is driven distally through the cartridge body 20042 by the firing member 20120.

As further seen in FIG. 10 , the cam action assembly body 20062 includes a series of cam members 20066 that align with corresponding staple drivers supported in rows within the staple cartridge body 20042. In the illustrated example, the cam action assembly 20060 includes an on-board tissue cutting member or blade 20068. The tissue cutting member 20068 extends above the platform surface 20043 such that when the cam action assembly 20060 is driven distally, the tissue cutting member 20068 cuts tissue clamped between the anvil 5024 and the staple cartridge 20040. The cam action assembly 20060 is in a home position within the cartridge 20040 when the staple cartridge is "fresh" or new (ie, the cartridge has never been fired and contains staples or fasteners that are ready to fire). When the cam action assembly 20060 is in the home position, the tissue cutting member 20068 is located within a parking portion 20048 formed on the proximal end portion 20046 of the cartridge body 20042 to prevent injury when handling a fresh cartridge 20040. In one aspect, the cam member 20066 extends distally beyond the tissue cutting member 20068 such that the staples or fasteners are deployed through the tissue before the tissue cutting member 20068 cuts through the tissue. Thus, as the firing member 20120 and cam action assembly 20060 are driven distally, the clamped tissue is stapled and subsequently cut. Once the firing member 20120 and cam action assembly 20060 have been driven to their distal-most end positions, the firing member 20120 can be retracted back to its starting position by rotating the helical screw shaft 5036 in the reverse rotational direction while the cam The action assembly 20060 remains in its end position. In at least one arrangement, the tissue cutting member 20068 is movable from a deployed cutting position to a storage position in which the tissue cutting member 20068 is stored below the cartridge deck surface 20043 to prevent the disposal of a fired or depleted cartridge 20040 Injuried. For example, a retraction member (not shown) can be strategically located in the distal end 20044 of the cartridge body 20042 to contact the tissue cutting member 20068 and remove it from the tissue cutting member 20068 when a portion of the tissue cutting member 20068 is brought into contact with the retraction member. The deployment position moves to the storage position.

FIG. 11 shows one form of firing member 20120. As can be seen in Figure 11, the firing member 20120 includes a body portion 20122 that includes two downwardly extending hollow mounting portions 20124 that are unthreaded and spaced apart to receive a threaded therebetween The drive nut 20130. The threaded drive nut 20130 is configured to threadably engage the helical screw shaft 5036 . The drive nut 20130 includes a vertical tab portion 20131 sized to extend through an axial slot 20025 in the bottom 20024 of the elongated channel 20020 (FIG. 10). Two laterally extending retention flanges 20134 are formed on the threaded drive nut 20130 and are configured to engage the bottom 20024 of the elongated channel 20020. Additionally, two laterally extending anvil engagement tabs 20126 are formed on the top of the firing member body 20122 and are configured to engage the anvil upon axial movement of the firing member 20120 within the surgical end effector 20012. Corresponding flange 20102 in 5024.

As can also be seen in FIG. 11 , the firing member 20120 may also be equipped with an onboard firing member lockout assembly 20140 that includes a lockout member 20142 pivotally coupled to the firing member body 20122 . The blocking member 20142 includes a slider latch 20148 that is configured to be engaged by the cam action assembly 20060 when the cam action assembly 20060 is in the unfired position. As can be seen in FIGS. 12 and 13 , the cam action assembly 20060 includes a firing member flange 20061 configured to engage the slider latch 20148 on the blocking member 20142 . The latching spring 20150 is mounted in the elongated channel 20020 and is configured to bias the latching member 20142 downwardly such that if the cam action assembly 20060 is not in its unfired starting position, the latching member 20142 contacts each of the elongated passages 20020. The latching lugs 20028 are formed on portions of the inner surfaces of the upright side walls 20022. See Figure 15. When in this position, if the user inadvertently attempts to advance the firing member 20120 distally, the blocking member 20142 contacts the blocking lugs 20028 on the channel 20020 to prevent distal advancement of the firing member 20120.

FIG. 12 shows the initial insertion of a fresh, unfired surgical staple cartridge 20040 into the channel 20020. As can be seen in Figure 12, the cam action assembly 20060 is in the starting position and the proximal end portion 20046 of the surgical staple cartridge 20040 is inserted at an angle relative to the channel 20020, then pushed up in the proximal direction PD until the cam action assembly The firing member flange 20061 on the 20060 unlockably engages the slider latch portion 20148 of the blocking member 20142. 13 and 14 illustrate the surgical staple cartridge 20040 in the correct installation position. As can be seen in Figure 13, the firing member latch assembly 20140 is in an unlocked position. Rotational actuation of the helical screw shaft 5036 in the first rotational direction will move the firing member 20120 distally in the distal direction DD. As the firing member 20120 is moved distally, the cam action assembly 20060 is also driven distally thereby. The cam member 20066 cams the driver stored in the bin 20040 upward in the bin body 20042. As the driver is cammed upward, the staples or fasteners supported thereon are driven through the tissue that has been clamped between the anvil 5024 and the cartridge 20040 and into forming contact with the staple forming lower surface 5029 on the anvil 5024 . The stapled tissue is then cut by tissue cutting member 20068. Once the firing member 20120 has been driven to its distal-most position in the cartridge 20040, the helical screw shaft 5036 can be rotated in a second, opposite rotational direction to retract the firing member 20120 back to its starting position. The cam action assembly 20060 is retained in the distal end portion 20044 of the cartridge body 20042. The spent bin 20040 can then be removed from the channel 20020.

FIG. 14 shows the end effector 20012 after the spent cartridge has been removed from the channel 20020. As can be seen in FIG. 14 , the spring 20150 biases the latch member 20142 of the firing member latch assembly 20140 into locking engagement with the latch lug 20028 in the channel 20020 . If the user attempts to fire the surgical end effector 20012 (advance the firing member 20120 distally), the blocking member 20142 will prevent distal movement of the firing member 20120. Likewise, if the user attempts to reuse a depleted cartridge, the firing member lockout assembly 20140 will prevent distal advancement of the firing member 20120 because the cam action assembly 20060 is not in the starting position.

In the illustrated arrangement, the blocking member 20142 is pivotally coupled to the firing member body 20122 by a pivot pin 20143 that is received in a hole 20123 extending through the firing member body 20122. See Figures 14 and 16. In at least one arrangement, the pivot pin 20143 is sized relative to the hole 20123 in the firing member body 20122 to facilitate free pivotal travel of the blocking member 20142 and to account for tolerance differences in components. As can be seen in Figure 14, the firing member 20120 includes a proximally facing firing surface 20145 configured to abut a distally facing bearing on the firing member body 20122 when the firing member latch assembly 20140 is in the unlocked position Surface 20125. Thus, as the firing member 20120 is advanced distally, the resistive forces encountered by the cam action assembly 20060 during its distal movement are applied directly to the distally facing bearing surface 20125 on the firing member body 20122. Such an arrangement prevents these resistive forces from being transmitted back to the pivot pin 20143, which could cause the pivot pin 20143 to fail under such loads. Similarly, as can be seen in FIG. 16 , the proximally facing angled bearing surface 20145 of the firing member 20120 is configured to abut a distally facing bearing on the firing member body 20122 when the firing member lockout assembly 20140 is in the locked position Surface 20125. Such an arrangement may prevent resistive locking forces caused by locking engagement of the latch member 20142 with the locking lugs 20028 from being transmitted back to the pivot pin 20143, which could cause the pivot pin 20143 to fail under such loads. The loose fit between the pin 20143 and the hole 20123 in the firing member body 20122 facilitates some translation of the blocking member 20142 under load to transfer the load into the firing member body 20122 and not to the pin 20143 itself.

In another arrangement, or in addition to the latching member 20142 arrangement described above, the amount of current drawn by the motor used to apply a rotational action to the helical screw shaft 5036 is monitored. Once the current increases beyond a predetermined threshold, control circuitry for a surgical instrument or robotic system or the like can stop the motor to prevent any further rotation of the helical screw shaft 5036 and movement of the firing member 20120, thereby preventing damage to the aforementioned components.

Some previous firing member latching arrangements, which required the user to actively retract the firing member to the proximal-most starting position before allowing the anvil to open, were configured to prevent the firing member of the end effector from escaping. Advance unless a fresh, unfired cartridge is properly installed in the surgical end effector. If the user attempts to open the anvil before the firing member moves back to its proximal-most position, he may not understand why the anvil fails to open. The above arrangement prevents such confusion.

17-21 illustrate a surgical end effector 20300 that may be used, for example, in conjunction with the powered surgical instrument 1010 described above. The surgical end effector 20300 can also be effectively used with various other robotic powered surgical systems disclosed in various references incorporated herein by reference. Those components shown in FIGS. 17-21 that are identical to those of surgical instrument 1010 have been labeled with similar part numbers. For the sake of brevity, those configurations and functions of those components of the surgical instrument 1010 that are not necessary to understand the operation of the surgical end effector 20300 will not be repeated herein.

Referring now to FIGS. 17-21 , the surgical end effector 20300 includes an elongated channel 20310 configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 20600 therein. In the illustrated example, the elongated channel 20310 includes a channel bottom 20312 and a pair of upstanding side walls 20314. Channel 20310 is coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) by channel mounting features 20340 that may facilitate its articulation about articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5). As can be seen in Figure 19, in one arrangement, for example, the channel mounting feature 20340 includes a body portion 20342 consisting of an upright support 20344 having a slot 20346 extending therethrough to receive therethrough The firing member beam 1900 (FIG. 5). The channel mounting feature 20340 can be movably or pivotally mounted to the proximal end 20316 of the channel 20310 by a channel mounting feature or channel pin 20320. Specifically, the channel mounting feature 20320 also includes a lateral pin opening 20348 that is configured to be coaxially aligned with the hole 20318 in the side wall 20314 of the channel 20310 to receive the channel pin 20320 therethrough.

As discussed above, shaft assembly 1200 includes ridges 1210 that terminate in upper lug mounting feature 1270 and lower lug mounting feature 1280 . See Figure 5. The upper lug mounting feature 1270 has formed therein a lug slot 1272 adapted to mount and support the upper mounting connector 1274 therein. Similarly, the lower lug mounting feature 1280 has formed therein a lug slot 1282 adapted to mountably support the lower mounting connector 1284 therein. The upper mounting link 1274 includes a pivot socket 1276 therein adapted to rotatably receive therein a pivot pin 1292 formed at a proximal end portion attached to the elongated channel 20310 20316 on the channel cap or anvil holder 1290. As can be seen in Figure 19, the channel mounting feature 20340 also includes a shaft mounting flange 20350 extending proximally therefrom. In one arrangement, for example, the shaft mounting flange 20350 has a centrally positioned pivot hole 20352 therethrough that pivotally receives a lower mounting link 1284 on the lower lug mounting feature 1280 Pivot pin 1286 (FIG. 5). The lower pivot pin 1286 is vertically aligned with the pivot socket 1276 to define an articulation axis AA about which the surgical end effector 20300 can articulate relative to the spine 1210. In one arrangement, proximal articulation driver 2102 ( FIG. 5 ) may be directly coupled to articulation lugs 20354 formed on shaft mounting flange 20350 . In other arrangements, the proximal articulation driver 2102 may be attached to one or more articulation links attached to the shaft mounting flange 20350. In either case, axial movement of the proximal articulation driver 2102 in the manner described above will cause the channel mounting feature to pivot relative to the spine 1210 about the articulation axis (FIG. 5) to articulate the end effector 20300 about the articulation axis The axis AA is articulated.

Aside from the differences discussed below, the surgical end effector 20300 also includes an anvil 20400 that is very similar to the anvil 2000 described above. Anvil 20400 includes an elongated anvil body portion 20402 having a staple forming lower surface 20404 and an anvil mounting portion 20410 configured to be closed with the end effector in the manner described above Tube 3050 (FIG. 5) is handed over. Anvil 20400 is pivotally mounted on elongated channel 20310 by a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnions 20412 received in upstanding channel walls 20314 of the corresponding elongated trunnion slots 20322. Axial movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 in the distal direction will cause the anvil 20400 to pivot to the closed position about the pivot axis defined by the anvil trunnions 20412 and the end effector closure tube 3050 in the proximal direction Movement of the anvil will cause the anvil to pivot relative to the elongated channel 20310 to the open position.

FIG. 22 shows one form of staple cartridge 20600 that may be used in conjunction with the surgical end effector 20300. In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 20600 includes an elongated cartridge body 20602 sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 20310. The cartridge body 20602 includes a cartridge slot 20608 extending from the proximal end portion 20604 of the cartridge body 20602 to the distal end portion 20606 (FIG. 17). The cartridge body 20602 also includes a cartridge deck surface 20610 that faces the staple forming lower surface 20404 of the anvil 20400 when the cartridge 20600 is seated in the channel 20310 and the anvil 20400 is pivoted to the closed position. Also in the illustrated example, three rows of surgical staple pockets 20612 are formed on each side of the cartridge slot 20608 and open through the cartridge deck surface 20610. Each staple pocket 20612 can have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 20602 is molded from a polymeric material with the spike pockets 20612 molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets 20612 also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 20602 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets 20612. The cartridge pan 20620 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 20602 once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets 20612. In one form, the cartridge pan 20620 is fabricated from a metallic material and includes a bottom 20622 spanning the bottom of the cartridge body 20602 and two upstanding side walls 20624 corresponding to each side of the cartridge body 20602. The cartridge tray 20620 can be removably attached to the cartridge body 20602 by a series of hooks 20626 formed on the side walls 20624 and configured to engage corresponding portions of the cartridge body 20602 in the form of hooks. See Figure 22. When installed, the cartridge pan 20620 may (among other things) prevent the drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 20602 during the handling and installation of the cartridge 20600 into the elongated channel 20310.

As described above in connection with the cartridge 20040, the cartridge 20600 operably supports the cam action assembly therein. The cam action assembly includes a series of spaced cam members configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 20609 formed in each of the cartridge slots 20608 in the cartridge body 20602 on the side. The cam slots 20609 are aligned with corresponding rows of drivers in the cartridge body 20602 to be driven through the staple cartridge 20600 to the distal end portion 20606 at the starting position of the cam action assembly from within the proximal end portion 20604 of the cartridge body 20602 The inner end position facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member.

The example shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 also employs a firing member 20500 attached to the distal end of the firing member beam 1900 and configured to operably interface with a cam action assembly in the staple cartridge 20600 , to drive the cam action assembly from its starting position within the bin 20600 to its ending position. In at least one arrangement, the firing member 20500 is configured to interface with a cam action assembly (not shown) in the staple cartridge 20600 that has been properly installed in the elongated channel 20310. For example, the firing member 20500 includes a firing member body 20502 having a tissue cutting surface or blade 20504 formed thereon or attached thereto. The firing member body 20502 is dimensioned within an axial anvil slot (not shown) in the anvil 20400 and a cartridge slot 20608 in the cartridge body 20602 and a channel slot (not shown) in the elongated channel 20310 Axial movement. A lower foot assembly 20506 including a pair of laterally extending lower flanges 20508 extends from the bottom end of the firing member body 20502 to slidably engage corresponding channel flanges (not shown) formed on each side of the channel slot. ). An upper foot (not shown) including two laterally extending anvil tabs may be formed on the upper end of the firing member body 20502 and configured to slidably engage each side of the anvil slot formed anvil flange (not shown). In at least one arrangement, the firing member 20500 also includes a pair of central tabs 20510 extending laterally from each side of the firing member body 20502.

Still referring to Figures 20 and 21, in one arrangement, the firing member body 20502 is configured with a proximally extending spring tail 20512 configured to operably interface with the firing member latch spring 20520, which A firing member latching spring is mounted in the elongated channel 20310 and is configured to bias the firing member 20500 downward (arrow DN) in the elongated channel 20310 into a locked position. When in the locked position, the firing member feet 20506 and/or the central tabs 20510 are not aligned with the corresponding passageways in the channel 20310, and thus, if the user attempts to advance the firing member 20500 distally while in the locked state, the firing The member 20500 will not move distally due to such misalignment. That is, the feet 20506 and/or the central tab 20510 contact portions of the elongated channel, thereby preventing distal advancement of the firing member 20500. In one arrangement, a slider latch 20514 is formed on the firing member body 20502 and is configured to be engageable by a corresponding portion formed on a cam action assembly operably supported in the surgical staple cartridge 20600. When a fresh, unfired staple cartridge 20600 with its cam action assembly in its home position has been operably installed in the elongated channel 20310, a portion of the cam action assembly engages the slider latch 20514 on the firing member body 20502 and enables The firing member 20500 moves upward (arrow up in Figure 20) into an unlocked position where the lower foot assembly 20506 and/or the central tab 20510 are aligned with their corresponding passageways in the channel 20310 to allow the firing member 20500 to pivot in its center to advance. When the user advances the firing member 20500 distally into the cartridge 20600, the firing member 20500 also drives the cam action assembly therein which cams the driver upward to drive the staples or fasteners supported thereon and the anvil The underside of the seat makes contact. The tissue cutting member 20504 on the firing member 20500 then cuts through the stapled tissue. Once the firing member 20500 has been driven to its distal-most position corresponding to the end position of the cam action assembly, the firing member 20500 is retracted to its most distal position, leaving the cam action assembly at the distal end 20606 of the cartridge 20600 middle. When the firing member 20500 returns to its most proximal starting position, the firing member latching spring 20520 again biases the firing member 20500 back to its locked position. Thus, if a user inadvertently attempts to reuse a depleted cartridge 20600, the cam action assembly is not in the starting position it needs to unlock the firing member 20500.

The surgical end effector 20300 may also employ a closed latch system 20700 to prevent movement of the anvil 20400 from the open position to the closed (clamping) position unless a corresponding compatible surgical staple cartridge 20600 has been operably installed in the elongated channel 20310 . In the illustrated example, the closure latch system 20700 includes an anvil lock 20702 configured to be movable between an anvil locked position and an anvil unlocked position in response to installation of the staple cartridge 20600 therein. Figure 19 shows one form of anvil lock 20702. Anvil lock 20702 can be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and includes proximal biasing arms 20704 that can be configured to seat in lateral spring mounting slots 20343 that Provided in the body portion 20342 of the channel mounting feature 20340. Anvil lock 20702 also includes a distally extending body portion 20706 having downwardly extending mounting tabs 20708 and upwardly extending anvil locking tabs 20710 projecting therefrom. As can be seen in FIGS. 17 , 18 and 20 , the mounting tabs 20708 extend into clearance windows 20319 formed in the elongated channel 20310 .

Figure 19 shows the surgical end effector 20300 without a surgical staple cartridge installed. As can be seen in Figure 19, the proximal biasing arm 20704 has biased the anvil lock 20702 in the distal "anvil lock" position. When in this position, the anvil locking tab 20710 is aligned with a portion of the anvil locking lug 20414 formed on the anvil mounting portion 20410 of the anvil 20400. If the user attempts to close the anvil 20400, the anvil locking lugs 20414 will contact the anvil locking tabs 20710, preventing any further travel of the anvil 20400 in the closing direction.

Returning to Figure 21, in at least one arrangement, the staple cartridge 20600 includes an anvil unlock feature or tab 20630 that protrudes proximally from the cartridge body 20602 and is aligned to allow access to the cartridge 20600. The actuating tabs 20712 formed on the distal end of the anvil lock 20702 unlockably engage when operatively mounted in the elongated channel 20310. FIG. 20 shows the surgical staple cartridge 20600 operably mounted in the elongated channel 20310. As can be seen in Figure 21, the anvil unlock tab 20630 on the cartridge body 20602 has contacted the actuation tab 20712 of the anvil latch 20702 and biased the anvil latch 20702 to the unlocked position in the proximal direction PD, In the unlocked position, the anvil locking tabs 20710 are no longer aligned with the anvil locking lugs 20414 on the anvil 20400. When in this position, the user can pivot the anvil 20400 to the closed position. If a user attempts to install an inappropriate cartridge that lacks the anvil unlock tab 20630 or is designed to unlock a similar feature that engages the anvil latch 20702, the user will be unable to close the anvil 20400 to complete the surgical stapling procedure.

Figure 23 shows an alternative closure latch system 20700' for preventing movement of the anvil 20400' of the surgical end effector 20300' from the open position to the closed (clamping) position unless the corresponding correct surgical staple cartridge 20600' Has been operably mounted in a corresponding elongated channel (not shown). Except for the differences discussed below, the surgical end effector 20300' is substantially the same as the surgical end effector 20300 described above. The closure latch system 20700' includes substantially the same anvil latch 20702' as the anvil latch 20702 described above, except for the following differences. For example, the anvil latch 20702 may be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and include a distally extending body portion 20706' having a spring portion 20707' formed therein. The proximal end of the anvil latch 20702' has anchor tabs 20703' formed thereon for coupling the anvil latch 20702' to the channel mounting feature 20340 (FIG. 19). Additionally, the body portion 20706' includes downwardly extending mounting tabs 20708' and upwardly extending anvil latching tabs 20710' projecting therefrom. An actuation tab 20712' is formed on the distal end of the body portion 20706'.

The surgical staple cartridge 20600' is similar to the surgical staple cartridge 20600 described above and includes a cartridge body 20602' Cartridge body 20602' includes a cartridge slot 20608' extending from a proximal end portion 20604' to a distal end portion of the cartridge body 20602'. The cartridge body 20602' also includes a cartridge deck surface 20610' and three rows of surgical staple pockets 20612' on each side of the cartridge slot 20608'. As can be seen in Figure 23, the staple pockets 20612' and the staples or fasteners (not shown) therein are aligned parallel to the pocket axis PA' of the cartridge slot 20608'. Thus, the staples/fasteners are applied in rows generally parallel to the cartridge slot 20608' and the tissue cut line. Similar to the surgical staple cartridge 20600, the surgical staple cartridge 20600' includes a cartridge tray 20624' and an anvil unlocking feature or tab 20630' protruding proximally from the cartridge body 20602'.

Still referring to Figure 23, the anvil 20400' is similar to the anvil 20400 except for the differences discussed below. Anvil 20400' includes an elongated anvil body portion 20402' and an anvil mounting portion 20410' configured to interface with end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the manner described above. Anvil body portion 20402' includes a staple forming lower surface 20404' bisected by anvil slot 20405' that is configured to accommodate firing member 20500 therethrough. As can be seen in Figure 23, the staple forming lower surface 20404' includes three rows of staple forming pockets 20407' arranged on a forming pocket axis FPA parallel to the anvil slot 20405'. When the anvil 20400' is moved to the closed position, the anvil slot 20405' is vertically aligned with the cartridge slot 20608' to allow the firing member 20500 to pass therethrough. The rows of staple forming pockets 20407' are aligned with the staple pockets 20612' such that when the staples are driven from the cartridge 20600', they contact a corresponding pair of staple forming pockets 20407' to be crimped. Accordingly, the array of staple forming pockets in the anvil 20400' must correspond to the array of staple pockets 20612' in the cartridge 20600' to ensure proper staple formation. As further seen in FIG. 23, in this arrangement, the anvil 20400' includes a downwardly extending anvil locking lug 20414' formed distal to the anvil mounting portion 20410' side, but otherwise configured to contact the anvil latch tab 20710' when the anvil latch 20702' is in the locked position (eg, a cartridge has not been inserted into the channel 20310 or an incorrect cartridge has been placed in the channel 20310 middle). When the cartridge 20600' has been properly seated in the elongated channel 20310, the anvil unlock feature 20630' thereon contacts the actuation tab 20712' on the anvil latch 20702' to bring the latch 20702' closer The side is biased to an unlocked position where the anvil locking tabs 20710' are out of locking alignment with the anvil locking lugs 20414' to allow the anvil 20400' to pivot to the closed position.

Figure 24 shows an alternative closure latching system 20700" for preventing movement of the anvil 20400" of another surgical end effector 20300" from an open position to a closed (clamping) position unless a surgical staple cartridge 20600" is compatible Has been operably mounted in the elongated channel 20310. Except for the differences discussed below, the surgical end effector 20300" is substantially the same as the surgical end effector 20300 described above. The closure latch system 20700" includes substantially the same as the anvil lockout 20702 described above, except for the differences discussed below. Anvil lockout 20702". For example, anvil lockout 20702" may be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and includes a distally extending body portion 20706" having a spring portion 20707" formed therein. The proximal end of the anvil lockout 20702" has anchor tabs 20703" formed thereon for coupling the anvil lockout 20702" to the channel mounting feature 20340 (FIG. 19). Additionally, the body portion 20706" includes downwardly extending mounting tabs 20708" and upwardly extending anvil latching tabs 20710" projecting therefrom. An actuation tab 20712" is formed on the distal end of the body portion 20706".

The surgical staple cartridge 20600" is similar to the surgical staple cartridge 20600 described above and includes a cartridge body 20602" sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 20310. Cartridge body 20602" includes a cartridge slot 20608" extending from a proximal end portion 20604" of the cartridge body 20602" to a distal end portion. Cartridge body 20602" also includes a cartridge deck surface 20610" and two rows of surgical staple pockets 20612" on each side of cartridge slot 20608". As can be seen in Figure 24, the staple pockets 20612" and the staples or fasteners (not shown) therein are aligned on the pocket axis PA" transverse to the cartridge slot 20608". Thus, the staples/fasteners Apply in a row generally transverse to the cartridge slot 20608" and the tissue cut line. Such an arrangement of fasteners creates a "flexible" or "stretchable" staple line. Further details on staple cartridges for developing flexible or stretchable staple rows can be found in US Patent Application Serial No. 14/498,121 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE," now US Patent 9,801,627, Its entire disclosure is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Similar to the surgical staple cartridge 20600, the surgical staple cartridge 20600" includes a cartridge tray 20624" and an anvil unlocking feature or tab 20630" that protrudes proximally from the cartridge body 20602'.

Still referring to Figure 24, the anvil 20400" is similar to the anvil 20400, except for differences discussed below. The anvil 20400" includes an elongated anvil body portion 20402" and an anvil mounting portion 20410" that is configured to interface with the end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the manner described above. Anvil body portion 20402" includes a staple-forming lower surface 20404" bisected by anvil slot 20405" configured to accommodate firing member 20500 therethrough. As can be seen in Figure 24, the staple-forming lower surface 20404" Surface 20404" includes rows of staple forming pockets 20407" disposed on forming pocket axis FPA transverse to anvil slot 20405". When the anvil 20400" is moved to the closed position, the anvil slot 20405" is vertically aligned with the cartridge slot 20608" to allow the firing member 20500 to pass therethrough. The rows of staple forming pockets 20407" are aligned with the staple pockets 20612" are aligned so that when the staples are driven from the cartridge 20600", they contact a corresponding pair of staple forming pockets 20407" to be crimped. Therefore, the array of staple forming pockets 20407" in the anvil 20400" must correspond to the cartridge An array of staple pockets 20612" in A lower extending anvil locking lug is formed or attached to the anvil mounting portion 20410", the weapon is configured to contact the anvil lockout tab 20710" when the anvil lockout 20702" is in the locked position (eg, the cartridge is not locked). Insert into channel 20310 or insert an incorrect cartridge into channel 20310). When the cartridge 20600" has been properly seated in the elongated channel 20310, the anvil unlocking features 20630" thereon contact the actuation tabs 20712" on the anvil latch 20702" to bring the latch 20702" closer The side is biased to an unlocked position where the anvil locking tabs 20710" are out of locking alignment with the anvil locking lugs 20414" to allow the anvil 20400" to pivot closed.

As mentioned above, various surgical staple cartridges may have different arrays and/or orientations of staples/fasteners therein. Depending on the specific surgical procedure or application, the size of the staples or fasteners, as well as the number of fasteners, can vary by cartridge type. To ensure that the staples are properly crimped or formed, a surgical staple cartridge must be used in conjunction with a corresponding anvil having an appropriate array of staple forming pockets therein. If an "incompatible" cartridge is loaded into an end effector with an anvil that does not match the cartridge, the staples may not form properly during the firing process, which may lead to catastrophic results. For example, the surgical staple cartridge 20600' shown in Figure 23 is mated or "compatible" with the anvil 20400' shown in Figure 23. The surgical staple cartridge 20600" shown in Fig. 24 is mated or compatible with the anvil 20400" shown in Fig. 24. However, for example, the surgical staple cartridge 20600" of Figure 24 is not compatible with the anvil 20400' shown in Figure 23.

The closed latch system employed in the above example may avoid activation of mismatched cartridges that would otherwise be loaded into the end effector. For example, the anvil unlock feature or tab 20630' on the staple cartridge 20600' is located on the left side of the cartridge slot 20608' and is positioned so that when the cartridge 20600' is properly loaded in the channel 20310 of the end effector 20300' The center contacts the actuator tab 20712' on the anvil latch spring 20707'. Conversely, the anvil unlock feature or tab 20630" on the cartridge 20600" is located on the right side of the cartridge slot 20608" and is aligned to contact the anvil latch 20702 when the cartridge 20600" is properly loaded in the channel 20310 ” on the actuator tab 20712”. If the user loads the cartridge 20600" into the channel 20310 of the end effector 20300', the anvil unlock feature or tab 20630" on the staple cartridge 20600" will not contact the actuation on the anvil latch 20702' and the user will not be able to pivot the anvil 20400' closed. Likewise, if the user loads the cartridge 20600' into the channel of the end effector 20300", the The anvil unlock feature or tab 20630' on the staple cartridge 20600' will not contact the actuator tab 20712" on the anvil latch 20702" to move it to the unlocked position and the user will not be able to unlock the anvil 20400" pivots to close. If the user inadvertently loads another cartridge that lacks the correct anvil unlocking feature or tab corresponding to the anvil latch in the end effector, the user will not be able to close the anvil The location, shape, length, etc. of the anvil unlocking features or tabs on the surgical staple cartridge can vary by cartridge type and differ from the actuator member on the corresponding anvil latch in the corresponding surgical end effector (size, location, shape, number, etc.) are interrelated. For example, an anvil unlocking feature or tab may be integrally formed on the cartridge body, machined or molded into the cartridge body, attached to the cartridge body, The cam action assembly attached to the cartridge is either integrally formed on the cam action assembly of the cartridge, or includes a portion of the cartridge pan. All such variations are contemplated herein and are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Figures 25-29 illustrate a surgical end effector 21300, which is very similar to the surgical end effectors 20300, 20300', 20300" described above, except for the differences discussed below. In this embodiment In, for example, the end effector 21300 includes an elongated channel 21310 configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge 21600 therein. In the illustrated example, the elongated channel 21310 includes a channel bottom 21312 and a To upstanding sidewall 21314. Although not shown, channel 21310 may be coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) via channel mounting features 20340 (described above) that may facilitate articulation thereabout Joint 3020 (FIG. 5) is articulated. Surgical end effector 21300 includes an anvil 21400, which may be very similar to the anvil 20400 described above, except for the differences discussed below. Anvil 21400 includes an elongated anvil body portion 21402 and Anvil mounting portion 21410, the elongated anvil body portion having a staple forming lower surface, is configured to interface with end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the manner described above. Anvil 21400 passes through a Pivotally mounted on the elongated channel 21310 is a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnions 21412 that are received in corresponding elongated ears formed in the upright channel wall 21314 Axial movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 in the distal direction will cause the anvil 21400 to translate distally until the trunnion 21412 contacts the distal end of its corresponding trunnion slot 21320 and pivots To the closed position. Conversely, movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 in the proximal direction will pivot the anvil 21400 relative to the elongated channel 21310 to the open position.

The end effector 21300 is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 21600, which can be substantially the same as the surgical staple cartridge 20600, except that the anvil unlocking feature or tab 21630 includes a portion of the cartridge tray 21620 . Anvil unlock feature 21630 is configured to operably interface with axially movable anvil lock 21702 supported by channel 21310 . Turning to Figure 27, the anvil lock 21702 is supported for axial movement between a distal locked position and a proximal locked position by a guide block 21720 attached to a portion of the channel 21310. In one example, the anvil lock 21702 may be formed of metal and the guide block 21720 may be made of 40% carbon filled nylon 6/6 and attached to the sidewall of the channel 21310 by a suitable adhesive or other fastening means 21314. The guide block 21720 can define a guide slot 21722 configured to support the locking tab portion 21710 of the anvil lock 21702 . Anvil lock 21702 also includes a vertical body portion 21706 having actuation tabs 21712 formed on a distal end thereof. Anvil lock 21702 is biased to the distal locked position by extension spring 21730 attached to anvil lock 21702 and channel sidewall 21314. When the cartridge is not present, the tension spring 21730 biases the anvil lock 21702 to the distal locking position where the locking tab portion 21710 contacts a portion of the anvil 21400 to prevent the anvil 21400 from pivoting to the closed position. When the correct or compatible cartridge 21600 is loaded into the elongated channel 21310, the unlocking features or tabs 21630 of the cartridge tray 21620 contact the actuation tabs 21712 on the anvil lock 21702 to cause the anvil lock 21702 to face proximally Movement to the unlocked position, where the locking tab portion 21710 of the anvil lock 21702 no longer prevents pivotal movement of the anvil 21400. As can be seen in Figure 25, the anvil unlocking feature 21630 of the surgical staple cartridge 21600 is "asymmetrical" in design. That is, the anvil unlocking feature 21630 is located only on one side of the proximal end of the cartridge 21600. Figure 25 shows the old release areas 21315 present in the previous channel arrangement and the new release areas 21317, 21319 provided in the channel 21310 to accommodate the cartridge 21600 therein.

Figure 30 shows the same parts of the surgical end effector 21300' as the end effector 21300, except that the end effector 21300' employs an anvil lock 21702' as shown in Figures 31 and 32. In one example, the anvil lock 21702' may be made of 40% carbon filled nylon 6/6 and includes a vertical body portion 21706' having a locking portion 21710' formed on its upper end. Actuation tabs 21712' are formed on the distal end, and gussets 21714' are also used to provide additional support for the actuation tabs 21712'. As described above, when the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge 21600 is loaded into the elongated channel 21310, the unlocking features or tabs 21630 of the cartridge tray 21620 contact the actuation tabs 21712' on the anvil lock 21702' to The anvil lock 21702' is moved proximally to an unlocked position where the locking tab portion 21710' of the anvil lock 21702' no longer prevents pivotal movement of the anvil 21400.

FIG. 33 shows another surgical end effector 22300 employing an anvil lockout system 22700. Aside from the noted differences, the end effector 22300 is similar to the end effector 20300 described above. In this embodiment, the end effector 22300 includes an elongated channel 22310 configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge 22600 therein. In the illustrated example, the elongated channel 22310 includes a channel bottom 22312 and a pair of upstanding side walls 22314. Although not shown, channel 22310 may be coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) by channel mounting features 20340 (described above) that may facilitate its articulation around articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5) Do joint exercises. Aside from the differences discussed below, the surgical end effector 22300 also includes an anvil 22400 that is very similar to the anvil 20400 described above. Anvil 22400 includes an elongated anvil body portion 22402 and an anvil mounting portion 22410 configured to interface with end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the manner described above. The anvil 22400 is pivotally mounted on the elongated channel 22310 by a pair of laterally extending anvil pins or trunnions 22412 that are received in side walls 22314 formed in the upright channel Corresponding elongated trunnion slot 22320 in . Axial movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 in the distal direction will cause the anvil trunnion 22412 to translate the trunnion slot 22320 distally upward to pivot the anvil 22400 to the closed position. Conversely, movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 in the proximal direction will pivot the anvil 22400 relative to the elongated channel 22310 to the open position.

The end effector 22300 is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 22600, which may be substantially the same as the surgical staple cartridge 20600, except that an anvil unlocking feature or tab 22630 is formed on the cartridge body 22602. The proximal end portion 22604 is on the right side and has a contoured proximal end surface 22632. In the illustrated example, the contoured proximal end surface 22632 has an arcuate shape. Anvil unlock feature 22630 is configured to operatively interface with axially movable anvil lock 22702 of anvil lockout system 22700 supported by channel 22310. In the illustrated example, the anvil lock 22702 is supported for axial movement within the proximal end portion 22316 of the elongated channel 22310 between a distal locked position and a proximal unlocked position. In the illustrated example, the anvil lock 22702 includes an elongated body portion 22706 having an anvil locking tab 22710 formed on a proximal end thereof and configured to engage with Locking lugs 22413 formed on anvil mounting portion 22410 of anvil 22400 lockingly interface. See Figure 33. Actuation tabs 22712 are formed on the distal end of the body portion 22706. The actuation tab 22712 has a contoured actuation surface 22714 formed therein that is configured to substantially mate or mate with the contoured proximal end surface 22632 on the anvil unlock feature 22630. See Figure 34.

In at least one arrangement, a spring or biasing member 22730 (leaf spring, coil spring, etc.) may be attached to or mounted within the channel 22310 and configured to bias the anvil lock 22702 in the distal direction DD Press into the locked position where the anvil locking tabs 22710 thereon block alignment with the locking lugs 22413 on the anvil mounting portion 22410 to prevent the anvil 22400 from closing. When the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge 22600 is operably loaded into the channel 22310, the anvil unlocking features or tabs 22630 are brought into engagement with the contoured surfaces 22714 on the actuation tabs 22712 of the anvil lock 22702. The surgical staple cartridge 22600 is then moved proximally to seat the cartridge 22600 within the channel 22310. As the surgical staple cartridge 22600 is moved proximally, the anvil unlock feature 22630 contacts the actuation tabs 22712 of the anvil lock 22702 and biases the anvil lock 22702 proximally to an unlocked position where the Anvil locking tabs 22710 move out of blocking alignment with locking lugs 22413 on anvil mounting portion 22410 to allow anvil 22400 to pivot closed. When the surgical staple cartridge 22600 is removed from the channel 22310, the spring 22730 biases the anvil lock 22702 distally back to the locked position. 35 shows the contoured proximal end 22632 of the anvil unlock feature 22630 formed on the right side of the proximal end portion 22604 of the cartridge body 22602 and the matching contours on the actuation tabs 22712 of the anvil lock 22702 The surface 22714 enables the cartridge 22600 to facilitate the unlocking interface between the unlocking feature 22630 and the actuation tab 22712 even when the cartridge is mounted at a mounting angle IA relative to the central axis EA of the end effector 22300. See Figure 35.

Figure 36 shows an attempt to use an incompatible cartridge 22600X that lacks the unlocking feature to move the anvil lock 22702 from the locked position to the unlocked position. As can be seen in FIG. 36, the locking tabs 22710 block alignment with the locking lugs 22413 on the anvil 22400, preventing the anvil 22400 from closing even after the cartridge 22600X has been seated in the channel 22310.

Figure 37 shows that another surgical end effector 22300' is substantially identical to the surgical end effector 22300 described above, except for the noted differences. The end effector 22300' is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 22600' that is substantially identical to the cartridge 20600 and includes an anvil unlocking feature or tab 22630' having a contoured proximal end surface 22632' . In the illustrated example, the anvil lock 22702' includes an elongated body portion 22706' having an anvil locking tab 22710' formed on its proximal end 22711' and is configured to lockingly interface with locking lugs 22413' formed on the anvil mounting portion 22410 of the anvil 22400. The distal end 22712' of the anvil lock 22702' includes a contoured actuation surface 22714' formed therein that is configured to interact with the contoured proximal end on the anvil unlock feature 22630' in the manner described above The top surface 22632' substantially mates or fits. A spring or biasing member 22730' (leaf spring, coil spring, etc.) may be attached to or mounted within the channel 22310' and configured to bias the anvil lock 22702' to the locked position in the distal direction DD , in the locked position, the anvil locking tabs 22710' thereon are in blocking alignment with the locking lugs 22413' on the anvil mounting portion 22410 to prevent the anvil 22400 from closing.

When the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge 22600' is operably loaded into the channel 22310', the anvil unlocking feature or tab 22630' is brought into engagement with the contoured surface 22714' of the anvil lock 22702'. Cartridge 22600' is then moved proximally in proximal direction PD to seat cartridge 22600' within channel 22310'. When the cartridge 22600' is moved proximally, the anvil unlock feature 22630' contacts the distal end of the anvil lock 22702' and biases the anvil lock 22702' proximally to the unlocked position, where it rests on the The anvil locking tab 22710' moves out of blocking alignment with the locking lugs 22413' on the anvil mounting portion 22410 to allow the anvil 22400 to pivot closed. When the cartridge 22600' is removed from the channel 22310', the spring 22730' biases the anvil lock 22702' distally back to the locked position. As can be seen in Figure 37, the anvil lock 22702' has a more stable body portion 22706' when compared to the anvil lock 22702 described above. In at least one example, clearance notches 22709' are provided in the body portion 22706' to provide sufficient clearance for the locking lugs 22413' when the anvil 22400 is pivoted to the closed position. Additionally, a channel stop 22313' is formed on the bottom 22312' of the channel 22310' and is configured to contact the proximal end 22711' of the anvil lock 22702' when the anvil lock 22702' is in the unlocked position to Further proximal movement of the anvil lock 22702' is prevented, thereby ensuring that the locking lugs 22413' remain aligned with the clearance notches 22709' in the anvil lock 22702' during closure of the anvil 22400.

Figure 38 shows that another surgical end effector 22300" is substantially identical to the surgical end effector 22300 described above, except for the differences noted. The end effector 22300" includes an elongated channel 22310" that is The long channel includes an anvil 22400" pivotally supported thereon. Channel 22310" is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 22600 compatible with the staple forming lower surface of anvil 22400" and employs anvil locking system 22700" configured to prevent closure of anvil 22400" unless surgical The staple cartridge 22600 has been operably mounted in the end effector 22300". In the illustrated example, the anvil locking system 22700" includes an anvil lock 22702" that includes a body portion 22706" having a The distal end portion 22712" is higher than the proximal portion of the body 22706". When the anvil lock 22702" is in its distal most locking position, a portion of the anvil 22400" contacts the higher distal end portion 22712" to prevent the anvil 22400" from closing. The distal end portion 22712" of the anvil lock 22702" includes a contoured actuation surface 22714" configured to approximate the contours of the anvil unlock feature 22630 formed on the cartridge 22600 in the manner described above. The side end surfaces 22632 are substantially mated or mated. A spring or biasing member 22730" (leaf spring, coil spring, etc.) may be attached to or mounted within the channel 22310" and configured to lock the anvil lock 22702 " is biased in the distal direction DD to a locked position in which the distal end portion 22712" is in blocking alignment with a corresponding portion of the anvil 22400" to prevent the anvil 22400" from closing.

When the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge 22600 is operably loaded into the channel 22310", the anvil unlock feature 22630 on the cartridge 22600 and the contoured surface on the distal end 22712" of the anvil lock 22702" 22714" engaged. The cartridge 22600 is then moved proximally to seat the cartridge 22600 within the channel 22310". As the cartridge 22600 is moved proximally, the anvil unlock feature 22630 contacts the distal end 22712" of the anvil lock 22702" and displaces the anvil Lock 22702" is biased proximally to an unlocked position where distal end portion 22712" moves out of blocking alignment with a corresponding portion of anvil 22400" to allow anvil 22400" to pivot to a closed position. When the cartridge 22600 is removed from the channel 22310", the spring 22730" biases the anvil lock 22702" distally back to the locked position. As can also be seen in Figure 38, a channel stop 22313" is formed on the bottom 22312" of the channel 22310" and is configured for contact with the proximal end 22711" of the anvil lock 22702" to prevent the cartridge 22600 from facing proximally Inserted too far into end effector 22300".

Figures 39 and 40 illustrate another surgical end effector 23300 that is similar to other surgical end effectors described herein, except for various differences noted below. The end effector 23300 includes an elongated channel 23310 that includes an anvil 23400 pivotally supported thereon. The channel 23310 is configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 22600 compatible with the staple forming lower surface of the anvil 23400 and employs an anvil locking system 23700 configured to prevent the anvil 23400 from closing unless the cartridge 22600 is already operable installed in the end effector 23300. In the illustrated example, the anvil locking system 23700 includes an anvil lock 23702 that includes a body portion 23706 having a distal end portion 23712. The distal end portion 23712 of the anvil lock 23702 includes a contoured actuation surface 23714 configured to engage the contoured proximal end on the anvil unlock feature 22630 formed on the cartridge 22600 in the manner described above Surface 22632 substantially mates or fits. A spring or biasing member 23730 is mounted within the channel 23310 and is configured to bias the anvil lock 23702 to a "locked" position in the distal direction DD.

In the illustrated example, anvil 23400 includes an elongated anvil body 23402 and an anvil mounting portion 23410 configured to interface with end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the manner described above. Anvil 23400 is pivotally mounted on elongated channel 22310 by a pair of laterally extending trunnion forming portions 23412 that are received in corresponding trunnion slots 23320 formed in the upstanding side walls of channel 23310 middle. At least one trunnion-forming portion 23412 includes a laterally projecting actuator lobe 23414 that defines an actuator flange 23416. Trunnion pins 23418 project outwardly from actuator lobes 23414 and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 23320.

As can be seen in FIG. 39 , the at least one trunnion slot 23320 includes an arcuate actuation portion 23322 and a locking offset portion 23324 formed at a proximal end 23321 of the trunnion slot 23320 . FIG. 39 shows the insertion of the cartridge 22600 into the elongated channel 23310. To install the cartridge 22600 into the elongated channel 23310, the anvil 23400 is first moved to the open position. This can be accomplished by actuating the closure system to move the end effector closure tube 3050 (FIG. 5) in the proximal direction PD. As the closure tube 3050 moves proximally, it interfaces with the opening tabs 23411 formed on the anvil mounting portion 23410. When the closure tube 3050 interfaces with the anvil mounting portion 23410, the anvil 23400 translates proximally and begins to pivot open, which causes the trunnion forming portion 23412 to translate downwardly corresponding to the trunnion slit when the anvil 23400 reaches its fully open position The arcuate actuation portion 23322 of the slot 23320 enters the proximal end 23321 of the trunnion slot 23320.

During installation of the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge 22600 into the channel 23310, the anvil unlocking feature or tab 22630 is brought into engagement with the contoured surface 23714 on the distal end 23712 of the anvil lock 23702. The cartridge 22600 is then moved proximally to seat the cartridge 22600 within the channel 22310. When the cartridge 22600 is moved proximally, the anvil unlocking feature 22630 contacts the distal end 23712 of the anvil lock 23702 and biases the anvil lock 23702 proximally by the unlocking distance UD to close the anvil lock body 23706 proximally. The side end 23710 engages an actuator lobe 23414 on the at least one trunnion forming portion 23412 to move the trunnion forming portion 23412 to a position in which, when a closing action is applied to the anvil mounting portion 23410, The trunnion forming portion 23412 can translate upwardly along the arcuate actuation portion 23322 of the corresponding trunnion slot 23320. In other words, the proximal end 23710 of the anvil lock 23702 prevents the trunnion forming portion 23412 from entering the locking offset portion 23324 formed at the proximal end 23321 of the trunnion slot 23320 to allow the trunnion forming portion 23412 The arcuate actuation portion 23322 of the trunnion slot 23320 can be advanced.

Figure 40 shows an attempt to insert an incompatible cartridge 22600X that lacks the necessary unlocking features or tabs 22630 to move the anvil lock 23702 out of the distal locked position. However, if the user places the incompatible cartridge 22600X in the channel 23310 and then attempts to close the anvil 23400, the anvil locking system 23700 will prevent the closure of the anvil 23400. For example, to close the anvil 23400, the closure system is activated to move the closure tube (or other closure member) distally into operative contact with the anvil mounting portion 23410 of the anvil 23400, thereby imparting a closing action thereto. Initial application of the closing action of the anvil mounting portion 23410 causes the anvil mounting portion 23410 to move downward (arrow DL in FIG. 40 ), which causes the anvil trunnion forming portion 23412 to enter the lock formed in the trunnion slot 23320 Offset section 23324. Thus, during application of a closing action to the anvil 23400, the anvil trunnion-forming portion 23412 cannot translate into the arcuate actuation portion 23322 of the corresponding trunnion slot 23320 and then prevent the anvil 23400 from closing.

Figure 41 shows a portion of an alternative anvil 23400' that includes an anvil mounting portion 23410' having a trunnion-forming portion 23412' formed thereon. Each trunnion forming portion 23412' includes a laterally projecting actuator lobe 23414' that defines an actuator configured to interface with the anvil locking system 23700 in the manner described above Flange 23416'. As can be seen in Figure 41, the actuator flange 23416' is vertically offset (distance OD) from the bottom surface 23415' of the anvil mounting portion 23410'. Trunnion pins 23418' project outwardly from actuator lobes 23414' and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 23320. In this example, the trunnion pin 23418' has a trunnion pin diameter TRD approximately equal to the width LW of the actuator lobe 23414'.

42 shows a portion of an alternative anvil 23400" that includes an anvil mounting portion 23410" having trunnion forming portions 23412" formed thereon. Each trunnion forming portion 23412" includes a side The laterally protruding actuator lobes 23414" define actuator flanges 23416" that are configured to interface with the anvil locking system 23700 in the manner described above. As can be seen in Figure 42, the actuator flange 23416" is coextensive (eg, not offset) with the bottom edge 23415" of the anvil mounting portion 23410". The trunnion pin 23418" extends from the actuator lobe 23414" to the The trunnion pin 23418" has a trunnion pin diameter approximately equal to the width LW' of the actuator lobe 23414' in this example. TRD'.

43 is a partial cutaway end elevation view of a surgical end effector 24100 including an anvil 24400 pivotally supported on an elongated channel 24310. Anvil 24400 includes an anvil mounting portion 24410 having trunnion-forming portions 24412 formed thereon. Each trunnion forming portion 24412 includes a laterally projecting actuator lobe 24414 that defines a bottom lobe surface 24416 configured to interface with the anvil locking system 24700 in the manner described above . As can be seen in FIG. 44 , the bottom lobe surface 24416 is vertically offset (distance OD ₁ ) from the bottom surface 24415 of the anvil mounting portion 24410 . Trunnion pins 24418 project outwardly from actuator lobes 24414 and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 24320 formed in elongated channel 24310. In this example, the trunnion pin 24418 has a trunnion pin diameter TRD ₁ approximately equal to the width LW ₁ of the actuator lobe 24414 .

Channel 20310 includes a channel bottom 24312 and a pair of upstanding side walls 24314. Channel 24310 may be coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) by channel mounting features 20340, which may facilitate its articulation about articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5). FIG. 45 shows a portion of the proximal end 24316 of the channel 24310. In one example, each channel wall 24314 has a trunnion slot 24320 formed therein. In the illustrated arrangement, a lobe flange 24340 is formed in each channel wall 24314 such that the top surface 24342 of the lobe flange 24340 is coextensive with the bottom surface 24321 of the corresponding trunnion slot 24320. Each trunnion 24418 is received within a corresponding trunnion slot 24320 and is free to rotate and translate therein.

Still referring to Fig. 45, a portion of the anvil lock 24702 of the anvil locking system 24700 is shown. Anvil lock 24702 operates in the same manner as anvil lock 20702 described above, and includes a latch body 24706 having an actuator tab (not shown) formed on its distal end, the actuator The tabs are configured to be contactable by unlocking features that protrude proximally from the compatible compartment. Anvil lock 24702 may be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and include proximal biasing arms 24704 that may be configured to seat in transverse spring mounting slots (not shown) that transverse A spring mounting slot is provided in the body portion of the channel mounting feature (not shown). Anvil lock 24702 also includes upwardly extending anvil lock tabs 24710 projecting therefrom that are configured to extend over corresponding lobe flanges 24340 and contact corresponding lobes 24414, as will described below.

Figures 45 and 46 show the anvil lock 24702 in the locked position where the anvil 24400 is pivoted to the open position. This can be done when no cartridge has been inserted into the channel 24310 or an incompatible cartridge (eg, a cartridge that lacks the correct anvil unlocking feature necessary to bias the anvil locking spring proximally, among other things) has been inserted into the channel 24310 when it happens. When the anvil lock 24702 is in the distal locking position shown in FIGS. 45 and 46 , if the user inadvertently attempts to close the anvil 24400 , the corresponding lobes 24414 will contact the anvil locking tabs 24710 and prevent the anvil 24400 Pivot to closed position. Figures 47 and 48 show the position of the anvil lock 24702 in the proximal unlocked position where the anvil lock tab 24710 is positioned proximal of the lobe 24414 to allow the lobe 24414 to pivot to closed position.

49 is a partial cutaway end elevation view of a surgical end effector 24100' including an anvil 24400' pivotally supported on an elongated channel 24310'. Anvil 24400' includes an anvil mounting portion 24410' having trunnion forming portions 24412' formed thereon. Each trunnion forming portion 24412' includes a laterally projecting actuator lobe 24414' that defines a bottom lobe configured to interface with the anvil locking system 24700' in the manner described above Corner surface 24416'. As can be seen in Figure 50, the bottom lobe surface 24416' is coextensive from the bottom surface 24415' of the anvil mounting portion 24410'. Trunnion pins 24418' project outwardly from actuator lobes 24414' and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 24320' formed in elongated channel 24310'. In this example, the trunnion pin 24418' has a trunnion pin diameter _TRD2 that is less than the width LW2 of the actuator lobe ₂₄₄₁₄ '.

Channel 20310' includes a channel bottom 24312' and a pair of upstanding side walls 24314'. Channel 24310' may be coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) by channel mounting features 20340 that may facilitate its articulation about articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5). Figure 51 shows a portion of the proximal end 24316' of the channel 24310'. In one example, each channel wall 24314' has a trunnion slot 24320' formed therein. In the illustrated arrangement, a lobe flange 24340' is formed in each channel wall 24314' such that the top surface 24342' of the lobe flange 24340' is vertically offset from the bottom surface 24321' of the corresponding trunnion slot 24320' Move the offset distance OSD. The offset distance OSD may be approximately equal to the distance TSD between the trunnion pin 24418' and the bottom lobe surface 24416'. See Figure 50. Each trunnion pin 24418' is received within a corresponding trunnion slot 24320' and is free to rotate and translate therein.

Still referring to Figure 51, a portion of anvil lock 24702' of anvil lock system 24700' is shown. Anvil lock 24702' operates in the same manner as anvil lock 20702 described above, and includes a latch body 24706' having an actuator tab (not shown) formed on its distal end that causes The actuator tabs are configured to be contactable by unlocking features that protrude proximally from the compatible compartment. Anvil lock 24702' can be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and includes proximal biasing arms 24704' that can be configured to be seated in transverse spring mounting slots (not shown), The transverse spring mounting slot is provided in the body portion of the channel mounting feature (not shown). Anvil lock 24702' also includes upwardly extending anvil lock tabs 24710' projecting therefrom that are configured to extend over corresponding lobe flanges 24340' and contact corresponding lobes 24414 ', as described above.

Figure 51 shows the anvil lock 24702' in the locked position with the anvil 24400 pivoted to the open position. This can be done when no cartridge has been inserted into the channel or an incompatible cartridge (eg, a cartridge lacking the correct anvil unlocking feature necessary to bias the anvil locking spring proximally, among other things) has been inserted into the channel 24310 ' occurs in the middle. When the anvil lock 24702' is in the distal locking position shown in Figure 45, if the user inadvertently attempts to close the anvil 24400', the corresponding lobes 24414' will contact the anvil locking tabs 24710' and prevent the anvil 24400' pivots to closed position. Once a compatible surgical staple cartridge has been loaded into the end effector 24100', the anvil lock 24702' will be biased to the unlocked position (see, e.g., Figure 47), and the anvil 24400' will be free to pivot to the closed position.

52 shows a portion of a surgical end effector 24100" that includes an anvil 24400" pivotally supported on an elongated channel 24310". Anvil 24400" includes an anvil mounting portion 24410" that Has a trunnion forming portion 24412" formed thereon. As can be seen in Figures 53 and 54, each trunnion forming portion 24412" includes a laterally projecting actuator lobe 24414" that defines a laterally projecting actuator lobe that is configured to interact with the Anvil locking system 24700" meets bottom lobe surface 24416". As can be seen in Figure 53, the actuator lobe 24414" and the bottom lobe surface 24416" of the actuator lobe 24414" are relative to the end effector axis EA and the bottom edge 24419" of the anvil mounting portion 24410" and 53, the bottom lobe surface 24416" is parallel to the lobe axis LBA, which is at a lobe angle relative to the end effector axis EA LA positioning. Trunnion pins 24418" project outwardly from actuator lobes 24414" and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 24320" formed in elongated channel 24310". See Figure 55. In this example, the trunnion pin 24418" has a trunnion pin diameter _TRD3 equal to the width LW3 of the actuator lobe ₂₄₄₁₄ ".

55, channel 24310" includes a channel bottom 24312" and a pair of upstanding side walls 24314". Channel 24310" may be coupled to elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) through channel mounting features 20340, which may have It is facilitated to articulate about articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5) in various ways as described herein. Figure 55 shows a portion of the proximal end 24316" of the channel 24310". In one example, each channel wall 24314" has a trunnion slot 24320" formed therein. In the illustrated arrangement, a lobe flange 24340" is formed in each channel wall 24314" such that the proximal surface portion 24344" of the top surface 24342" of the lobe flange 24340" is in contact with the corresponding trunnion slot 24320" The bottom surface 24321" is coextensive. In the illustrated arrangement, the bottom surface 24321" of the trunnion slot 24320" is substantially parallel to the end effector axis EA and/or the bottom 24312" of the channel 24310". As can be seen in Figure 56 , sloped portion 24346" of top surface 24342" extends distally from proximal surface portion 24344" at angle TSA and terminates in horizontal distal surface portion 24348". In one arrangement, for example, distal surface portion 24348" is approximately Parallel to end effector axis EA and/or bottom 24312" of channel 24310" and angle TSA = angle LA. However, in other embodiments, the angle TSA may be different from the angle LA. Each trunnion 24418" is received within a corresponding trunnion slot 24320" and is free to rotate and translate therein.

55 and 56, a portion of anvil lock 24702" of anvil lock system 24700" is shown. Anvil lock 24702" operates in the same manner as anvil lock 20702 described above and includes a latch body 24706" having an actuator tab (not shown) formed on its distal end that The actuator tab is configured to be contactable by an unlocking feature protruding proximally from a compatible surgical staple cartridge. Anvil lock 24702" may be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and include proximal biasing arms 24704" that may be configured to seat in transverse spring mounting slots (not shown), The transverse spring mounting slot is provided in the body portion of the channel mounting feature (not shown). Anvil lock 24702" also includes an upwardly extending anvil lock tab 24710" projecting therefrom and configured to extend over a distal surface portion 24348" of a corresponding lobe flange 24340" , and flush or flush with the proximal surface portion 24344" of the lobe flange 24340".

Figure 55 shows the anvil lock 24702'" in the distal locking position with the anvil 24400" pivoted to the open position. This may occur when no surgical staple cartridge has been inserted into the channel 24310" or is incompatible with a surgical staple cartridge (eg, lacks the correct anvil unlocking feature necessary to proximally bias the anvil lock 24702", among other things Occurs when the surgical staple cartridge) has been inserted into the channel 24310". When the anvil lock 24702" is in this position, the anvil trunnions 24418" are located in the proximal ends of their corresponding trunnion slots 24320", and at least one The bottom lobe surface 24416" of the lobe 24414" rests on the proximal surface portion 24344" of the corresponding lobe flange 24340" and on the anvil lock tab 24710". When the anvil lock 24702" is in Figures 52 and 55 In the distal locked position shown, if the user inadvertently attempts to close the anvil 24400", the anvil locking tab 24710" will prevent the lobe 24414" from pivoting down to the ramped surface portion of the lobe flange 24340" 24346", this prevents the anvil 24400" from pivoting to the closed position. See Figure 52. Once the compatible surgical staple cartridge has been loaded into the end effector 24100", the anvil locking feature thereon biases the anvil lock 24702" proximally to the unlocked position. See Figure 56 and Figure 57. When the anvil lock 24702" is in the proximal unlocked position, the anvil locking tab 24710" locks proximally of the ramp surface 24346" on the lobe flange 24340", allowing the lobe 24414" to pivot down thereon This results in the closure of the anvil 24400".

Figure 58 shows a proximal portion of another anvil 24400"' configured to be pivotally supported in an elongated channel 24310"' that is similar to channel 24310 except for the differences discussed below ". Anvil 24400"' includes an anvil mounting portion 24410"' having trunnion forming portions 24412"' formed thereon. Each trunnion-forming portion 24412"' includes a laterally protruding actuator lobe 24414"' that defines an actuator lobe that is configured to interface with the anvil locking system 24700" in the manner described above. Bottom lobe surface 24416"'. The actuator lobe 24414"' and the bottom lobe surface 24416"' of the actuator lobe 24414"' are positioned at the same angle as the angle LA described above with respect to the actuator lobe 24414". Trunnion pins 24418"' project outwardly from actuator lobes 24414"' and are sized to translate and pivot within corresponding trunnion slots 24320"' formed in elongated channels 24310"'. See Figure 59. In this example, the trunnion pin 24418"' has a trunnion pin diameter TRD4 equal to the width _LW4 of the actuator lobe ₂₄₄₁₄ "'.

As can be seen in Figure 59, the channel 24310"' includes a channel bottom 24312"' and a pair of upstanding side walls 24314"'. The channel 24310"' may be coupled to the elongated shaft assembly 1200 (Figure 5) through a channel mounting feature 20340, The channel mounting feature may facilitate its articulation about the articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5). Figure 59 shows a portion of the proximal end 24316"' of the channel 24310"'. In one example, each channel wall 24314"' has a trunnion slot 24320"' formed therein. In the illustrated arrangement, a lobe flange 24340"' is formed in each channel wall 24314"' such that the top surface 24342"' of the lobe flange 24340"' extends from the bottom surface of the corresponding trunnion slot 24320"'24321"' Vertical offset offset distance OSD ₁ . The offset distance OSD ₁ may be approximately equal to the distance between the trunnion 24418"' and the bottom lobe surface 24416"'. In the illustrated arrangement, the top surface 24342"' of the lobe flange 24340"' is the same as the top surface 24342" of the lobe flange 24340" and includes a bottom surface 24321"' that is parallel to the trunnion slot 24320"' The proximal portion 24344"' and the inclined surface 24346"' and the distal surface 24348"'.

Anvil locking system 24700" works in the same manner to prevent anvil 24400"' from closing. The anvil locks when no or an incompatible cartridge is present in the channel 24310"' (eg, a cartridge lacking the correct anvil unlocking feature that biases the anvil locking spring proximally) has been inserted into the channel 24310"' The tabs 24710" are in their distal-most locked positions, preventing the corresponding actuator lobes 24414"' from pivoting down onto the ramp surfaces 24346"', thereby maintaining the anvil 24400"' in the open position. Once the compatible surgical staple cartridge has been loaded into the end effector 24100"', the anvil locking feature thereon biases the anvil lock 24702" proximally to the unlocked position. When the anvil lock 24702" is in the proximal unlocked position, the anvil lock tab 24710" locks proximally of the ramp surface 24346"' on the lobe flange 24340"', allowing the lobe 24414"' to rest thereon Pivoting down, this results in the closure of the anvil 24400"'.

Figures 60 and 61 show another anvil _24400A that is identical in construction and operation to the anvil 24400 described above, except that the trunnion forming portion _24412A is removed from the anvil mounting portion _24410A of the anvil _24400A . Bottom edge 24415 _A is offset vertically. Figure 62 shows another anvil _24400B that is identical in construction and operation to the anvil 24400' described above, except that the trunnion-forming portion _24412B extends from the bottom edge of the anvil mounting portion _24410B of the anvil _24400B 24415 _B Vertical offset.

The example depicted in FIGS. 41-62 employs a trunnion-forming portion that includes lobe structures of various shapes and configurations for interfacing with anvil locking features such that the anvil locks The interface between the feature and the corresponding lobe structure serves to facilitate the positioning of the anvil trunnion within its corresponding trunnion slot. This positioning of the lobe structure allows the anvil to close when a closing action is applied to it when a compatible surgical staple cartridge is loaded into the end effector. In the event that an incompatible surgical staple cartridge has been loaded into the end effector, the anvil locking feature holds the corresponding trunnion forming portion in a position where the anvil cannot be closed even when a closing action is applied to the anvil. Thus, the initial position of the trunnion formation prevents closure, but loading the correct or compatible surgical staple cartridge into the channel changes the position of the trunnion formation to allow closure to occur. The various lobe features described herein are also generally more robust than previous trunnion arrangements, which can result in improved anvil reliability.

63-69 illustrate a surgical end effector 25300 that may be used, for example, in conjunction with the powered surgical instrument 1010 described above. The surgical end effector 25300 includes an anvil 25400 pivotally supported on an elongated channel 25310 configured to operably support a surgical staple cartridge 25600. Anvil 25400 is movable between an open position and a closed position by interfacing with an axially movable closure member in various manners disclosed herein. In the illustrated example, anvil 25400 includes an anvil body 25402 and an anvil mounting portion 25410. Anvil mounting portion 25410 includes a pair of laterally extending trunnions 25412 operatively received within corresponding trunnion slots provided in upstanding side walls 25314 of channel 25310 in various manners disclosed herein . As discussed above with respect to the end effector 1300, the anvil 25400 can be pivoted between open and closed positions by interfacing with the end effector closure tube 3050 in various ways as described herein. For example, the end effector closure tube 3050 can be moved axially by actuating the closure trigger 1032 of the surgical instrument 1010 . In other arrangements, the end effector 25300 and the shaft assembly to which it is attached may operably interface with a robotic system, as described in detail in many of the references that have been incorporated herein by reference. In such applications, the end effector closure tube 3050 can be advanced and retracted axially by actuation of the closure control system of the robotic system.

In the illustrated arrangement, distal movement of the end effector closure tube 3050 operatively interfaces the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 with the camming surface 25411 formed on the anvil mounting portion 25410, to push the anvil 25400 toward the closed position. When the end effector closure tube 3050 is axially retracted in the proximal direction, the end effector closure tube 3050 can be configured to interface with various formations, flanges or tabs to apply an opening action to the anvil 25400. More details can be found in various other references which have been incorporated herein by reference.

The elongated channel 25310 can be coupled to the elongated shaft assembly 1200 (FIG. 5) by a channel mounting feature 20340 that can facilitate its movement around the articulation joint 3020 (FIG. 5) in various ways as described herein joint movement. The example shown also includes a firing member 20500 ( FIG. 20 ) that is attached to the distal end of the firing member beam 1900 ( FIG. 5 ) and is configured to interact with the surgical staple cartridge 25600 that has been loaded into the channel 25310 The cam action assemblies in the operably interface. To ensure that the compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600 is loaded into the end effector 25300 before the anvil 25400 is closed, the end effector employs a closed latch system 25700. In the illustrated example, closure latch system 25700 is configured to prevent distal movement of end effector closure tube 3050 unless compatible cartridge 25600 has been properly seated within channel 25310. In one example, the closure latch system 25700 includes a closure lock 25702 configured to be movable between a locked position and an unlocked position in response to installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600 therein. FIGS. 65-69 illustrate one form of closure lock 25702 which may be made of spring steel or other suitable metal and include a body portion 25706 that extends through a pivot hole in the body portion 25706 The pivot pin 25709 of the 25707 is pivotally pinned to the body portion 20342 of the channel mounting feature 20340. The closure lock 25702 also includes a proximal biasing arm 25704 that can be configured to be seated in a slot (not shown) provided in the body portion 20342 of the channel mounting feature 20340. Such an arrangement serves to bias the closure latch 25702 downwardly within the channel 25310.

As seen most particularly in FIGS. 65 and 66 , in the illustrated example, the closure latch 25702 also includes a blocking feature 25710 that protrudes from the bottom of the body portion 25706 and extends laterally outward. As shown in FIG. 65 , the blocking feature 25710 is positioned to block distal advancement of the end effector closure tube 3050 when the closure lock 25702 is in the locked position. When the closure latch 25702 is in the unlocked position as shown in FIG. 66 , the blocking feature 25710 is moved away from the blocking position to allow distal advancement of the end effector closure tube 3050 .

Turning to FIG. 67 , the closure lock 25702 also includes an actuator portion 25712 extending proximally for engagement by a closure unlock feature 25630 formed on the proximal end 25604 of the compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600. In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 25600 includes an elongated cartridge body 25602 sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 25310. The cartridge body 25602 includes a cartridge slot 25608 extending from the proximal end portion 25604 of the cartridge body 25602 to the distal end portion 25606 (FIG. 64). The cartridge body 25602 also includes a cartridge deck surface 25610 that faces the lower staple forming surface 25404 of the anvil 25400 when the cartridge 25600 is seated in the channel 25310 and the anvil 25400 is pivoted to the closed position. Although not shown in FIG. 67 , the surgical staple cartridge 25600 can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 25608 that are opened through the cartridge deck surface 25610 . Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 25602 is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 25602 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. The cartridge pan 25620 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 25602 once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets. When installed, the cartridge pan 25620 may (among other things) prevent the drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 25602 during the handling and installation of the cartridge 25600 into the elongated channel 25310. As described above in connection with the cartridge 20040, the cartridge 25600 operably supports the cam action assembly therein. The cam action assembly includes a series of spaced cam members configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 25609 formed in each of the cartridge slots 25608 in the cartridge body 25602 on the side. The cam slots 25609 are aligned with corresponding rows of drivers in the cartridge body 25602 to be driven through the staple cartridge 25600 to the distal end portion 25606 at the starting position of the cam action assembly from within the proximal end portion 25604 of the cartridge body 25602 The inner end position facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member.

Figures 63 and 68 illustrate the surgical end effector 25300 with the surgical staple cartridge not installed. As can be seen in FIG. 68 , the proximal biasing arm 25704 has biased the closure latch 25702 downward in the channel 25310 , which causes the blocking feature 25710 to move into block with the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050 Aligned (locked position). If the user activates the closure system to move the end effector closure tube 3050 distally, the blocking feature 25710 will block distal advancement of the end effector closure tube 3050, preventing application of a closing action to the anvil 25400. Returning to Figure 67, in at least one arrangement, the staple cartridge 25600 includes an anvil unlock feature or tab 25630 that protrudes proximally from the cartridge body 25602 and is aligned to allow access to the cartridge 25600. The actuating tabs 25712 formed on the distal end of the closure latch 25702 unlockably engage when operatively mounted in the elongated channel 25310. In one example, the unlocking feature 25630 has a slightly angled surface 25632 configured to operably interface with the angled surface 25713 on the actuation tab 25712 such that when the angled surface 25632 and the angled surface 25713 When engaged, the closure lock 25702 pivots in the upward direction. When the closure latch 25702 is pivoted up to the unlocked position, the blocking feature 25710 is no longer in blocking alignment with the end effector closure tube 3050. See Figure 66.

64 and 69 illustrate a surgical end effector 25300 with a compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600 operably mounted in the elongated channel 25310. As can be seen in Figure 69, the angled surface 25632 on the unlock feature 25630 on the staple cartridge body 25602 has contacted the angled surface 25713 on the actuation tab 25712 on the closure lock 25702 (shown in Figure 68) to The closure lock 25702 is biased to the unlocked position. When in this position, the user can advance the end effector closure tube 3050 distally to apply a closing action to the anvil 25400. If a user attempts to install in place an inappropriate cartridge that lacks the unlocking feature 25630 or a similar feature designed to unlock the engagement closure lock 25702, the user will be unable to advance the end effector closure tube 3050 distally to Close the anvil 25400.

Figures 70 and 71 illustrate a surgical end effector 25300' including an anvil 25400' pivotally supported on a channel 25310' and substantially the same as the end effector 25300 described above, except The closure locking system 25700' employs a different closure latch 25702' that is configured to interface with an unlocking feature on a cam action assembly 25650' provided within the surgical staple cartridge 25600'. As can be seen in Figures 70 and 71, the closure lock 25702' includes an elongated body 25706' having a tapered actuator tab portion 25712' on its distal end. The body 25706' is pivotally attached to the channel mounting feature 20340, and the proximal biasing arm 25704' biases the closure latch 25702' within the channel 25310'.

Figure 72 shows a surgical staple cartridge 25600' that includes an elongated cartridge body 25602' sized to be removably seated in an elongated channel 25310'. Cartridge body 25602' includes a cartridge slot 25608' extending from a proximal end portion 25604' to a distal end portion of the cartridge body 25602'. The cartridge body 25602' also includes a cartridge deck surface 25610' that faces the staple forming lower surface 25404 of the anvil 25400' when the cartridge 25600' is seated in the channel 25310' and the anvil 25400' is pivoted to the closed position '. Although not shown in Figure 72, the surgical staple cartridge 25600' can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 25608' that pass through the cartridge deck surface 25610' open. Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 25602' is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 25602' to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. Once the driver and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets, the cartridge pan 25620' is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 25602'. When installed, cartridge tray 25620' may (among other things) prevent drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of cartridge body 25602' during cartridge 25600' handling and installation into elongated channel 25310'. Cam action assembly 25650' is operably supported in cartridge body 25602'. In at least one arrangement, the cam action assembly 25650' includes a series of spaced apart cam members 25652' configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 25609' formed in the cartridge on each side of the cartridge slot 25608' in the body 25602'. The cam slots 25609' are aligned with corresponding row drivers in the cartridge body 25602' to be driven through the staple cartridge 25600' at the starting position of the cam action assembly 25650' from within the proximal end portion 25604' of the cartridge body 25602' To the end position within the distal end portion, camming contact with the corresponding cam member 25652' is facilitated. In at least one example, the cam action assembly 25650' includes a closed unlock feature or tab 25660' that protrudes proximally from the cam action assembly 25650' and is aligned so that the cartridge 25600' has been Operably mounted in elongated channel 25310' and cam action assembly 25650' unlockingly engages actuation tabs 25712 formed on the distal end of closure lock 25702' when in its unfired starting position within cartridge 25600' '.

Returning to Figure 71, in one example, the unlocking feature 25660' has a tapered nose portion 25662' that is configured to operably interface with the actuation tab 25712' such that when the tapered nose portion 25662' When the portion 25662' is engaged with the actuation tab 25712', the closure latch 25702' pivots upward. When the closure latch 25702' is pivoted up to the unlocked position, the blocking feature 25710' on the closure latch 25702' is no longer in blocking alignment with the end effector closure tube 3050.

As can be seen in Figure 72, the cartridge body 25602' may also include a locking safety device 25670' protruding proximally from the proximal end of the cartridge body 25602' and adjacent the tapered nose portion 25662'. The upper surface 25672' of the locking safety device 25670' is angled to match the tapered nose portion 25662', but when the cam action assembly 25650' is in its most proximal starting position, the tapered nose portion 25662' protrudes proximally beyond the locking End of safety device 25670'.

Figure 70 shows the initial insertion of an unfired compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600' into the channel 25310'. As can be seen in Figure 70, the tapered nose portion 25662' has made initial contact with the actuator tab portion 25712' on the closure latch 25702'. The closure latch 25702' remains biased downward into a locked position where the blocking feature 25710' of the closure latch 25702' is in blocking alignment with the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. As the cartridge 25600' is advanced further proximally into the seated position within the channel 25310', the tapered nose portion 25662' on the cam action assembly 25650' raises the actuation tab 25712' up to the position of the locking safety device 25670' Angle the upper surface 25672' above to enable the closure latch 25702' to pivot to an unlocked position where the blocking feature 25710' is no longer in blocking alignment with the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. When in this position, the user can advance the end effector closure tube 3050 distally to apply a closing action to the anvil 25400'. Thus, in this embodiment, the closure lockout system 25700' is actuated by the cam action assembly 25650', but only when the cam action assembly 25650' is in the unfired start position.

Figure 73 shows the insertion of the staple cartridge 25600X with the staple cartridge cam action assembly not in the proximal most unfired position. This can occur, for example, when a user attempts to use a previously used staple cartridge 25600X. Because the cam action assembly is not in its unfired starting position, there is no tapered nose portion that begins to bias the closure latch 25702' into an upward position above the closure safety device 25670'. When the cartridge 25600X is fully seated in the channel 25310', the action tab 25712' of the closure lock 25702' is positioned below the lower locking surface 25674'. The closure latch 25702' remains in a locked position in which the blocking feature 25710' of the closure latch is in blocking alignment with the distal end 3051 of the end effector closure tube 3050. If the user inadvertently attempts to advance the end effector closure tube 3050 distally to close the anvil 25400', the distal end 3051 will contact the blocking feature 25710' and the closure safety device 25670' will further prevent closure of the latch 25702 'Pivot up to unlocked position under closed load.

Figures 74 and 75 show a surgical end effector 25300" including an anvil 25400" pivotally supported on a channel 25310" and substantially the same as the end effector 25300' described above. End effector The device 25300" employs a closure locking system 25700" including a closure lock 25702". As can be seen in Figure 76, the closure latch 25702" includes an elongated body 25706" having an actuator tab portion 25712" on its distal end. The body 25706" includes a Lower spring arm 25720". The lower spring arm 25720" is installed to apply a downward biasing force to the closure lock 25702", as will be discussed below. As will also be discussed in further detail below, the closure lock 25702" also includes a vertically extending anvil locking tab 25710" that is configured to engage with an anvil mounting portion 25410 formed on the anvil 25400" The locking lugs 25414" on the "interface lockingly. In addition, the closure lock 25702" includes a proximal biasing spring 25704" for biasing the closure lock 25702" in the distal direction DD (FIG. 76). . As can be seen in Figure 74, the channel 25310" can be coupled to the elongated shaft assembly 1200 (Figure 5) by a channel mounting feature 20340 that can facilitate its articulation about the joint in various ways as described herein 3020 (FIG. 5) is articulated. As can be seen in FIG.

Similar to the closure of the anvil 25400' described above, distal movement of the end effector closure tube causes the distal end of the end effector closure tube to act with a cam formed on the anvil mounting portion 25410" of the anvil 25400" The surfaces 25411" operably interface to cam the anvil 25400" to the closed position. When the end effector closure tube is axially retracted in the proximal direction, the end effector closure tube can be configured to engage with each The seed formations, flanges or tabs interface to apply an opening action to the anvil 25400". More details can be found in various other references which have been incorporated herein by reference.

Figure 77 shows a surgical staple cartridge 25600" that includes an elongated cartridge body 25602" sized to be removably seated in an elongated channel 25310". The cartridge body 25602" includes a The proximal end portion 25604" of the cartridge body 25602" extends to the cartridge slot 25608" of the distal end portion. The cartridge body 25602" also includes a cartridge deck surface 25610' when the cartridge 25600" is seated in the channel 25310" and the anvil When the seat 25400" is pivoted to the closed position, the cartridge deck surface faces the staple forming lower surface 25404" of the anvil 25400". Although not shown in FIG. There are multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side that are opened through the cartridge deck surface 25610". Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 25602' is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 25602" to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. The cam action assembly 25650" is operably supported within the cartridge body 25602" In at least one arrangement, the cam action assembly 25650" includes a series of spaced apart cam members 25652" configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 25609" formed in On each side of the cartridge slot 25608" in the cartridge body 25602". The cam slots 25609" are aligned with corresponding row drivers in the cartridge body 25602" to be driven through the staple cartridge 25600" at the starting position of the cam action assembly 25650" from within the proximal end portion 25604" of the cartridge body 25602" To the end position within the distal end portion, camming contact with the corresponding cam member 25652" is facilitated. In at least one example, the camming assembly 25650" includes a closure-unlocking feature or tab 25660" that closes and unlocks the feature The portion or tab protrudes proximally from the cam action assembly 25650" and is aligned so that the surgical staple cartridge 25600" has been operably installed in the elongated channel 25310" and the cam action assembly 25650" is in its position within the cartridge 25600" The actuating tabs 25712" formed on the distal end of the closure lock 25702" are unlocked in the unfired starting position.

Returning to Figure 77, in one example, the unlocking feature 25660" has a tapered nose portion 25662" that is configured to operably interface with the actuation tab 25712" such that when the tapered nose portion 25662" When the portion 25662" engages the actuation tab 25712", the closure lock 25702" moves upward against the downward biasing force caused by the lower spring 25720". When the closure lock 25702" is pivoted upwardly to the unlocked position, the closure lock 25702" The anvil locking tabs 25710" on the" are no longer in blocking alignment with the locking lugs 25414" on the anvil mounting portion 24410".

Figure 74 shows the initial insertion of an unfired compatible surgical staple cartridge 25600" into the channel 25310". As can be seen in Figure 74, the tapered nose portion 25662" of the cam action assembly 25650" has not yet interfaced with the actuator tab portion 25712" on the closure latch 25702". The closure lock 25702" remains biased downward into the locked position where the anvil locking tabs 25710" of the closure lock 25702" and the locking lugs 25414" on the anvil mounting portion 25410" of the anvil 25400" block the allow. As the surgical staple cartridge 25600" is advanced further proximally into the seated position within the channel 25310", the tapered nose portion 25662" on the cam action assembly 25650" contacts the actuation tab 25712" and biases the closure latch 25702" upwardly Press to the unlocked position where the anvil locking tabs 25710" are no longer aligned with the anvil locking lugs 25414". When in this position, the user can close the anvil 25400" by advancing the end effector closure tube distally to apply a closing action to the anvil 25400". Thus, in this embodiment, the closure locking system 25700" is actuated by the cam action assembly 25650", but only when the cam action assembly 25650" is in the unfired starting position. Once the surgical staple cartridge 25600" has been released from the channel 25310" When removed, the lower spring 25720" on the closure lock 25702" will bias the closure lock 25702" downwardly to its locked position where the anvil locking tabs 25710" and the locking lugs on the anvil 25400" Ears 25414" block alignment.

Figure 78 shows the insertion of a staple cartridge 25600X" with a cam action assembly in it that is not in the proximal-most unfired position. Because the cam action assembly is not in its unfired starting position, there is no closing lock 25702" Tapered nose section biased upwards to unlocked position. The closure lock 25702' remains in the locked position where the anvil locking tabs 25710" of the closure lock are in blocking alignment with the anvil locking lugs 25414" on the anvil 25400". If the user inadvertently attempts to close the anvil 25400", the anvil locking lugs 25414" will contact the anvil locking tabs 25710" on the closure lock 25702" and prevent the anvil 25400" from pivoting to the closed position.

Figures 79-83 illustrate an alternative cartridge nose assembly 25800 that can be used with any of the cartridge and channel arrangements disclosed herein to provide for secure insertion of an end effector The surgical staple cartridge in the channel is another mechanism that is compatible with the end effector and provides the user with another visual indicator that the cartridge has been fired. For example, the cartridge nose assembly 25800 can be used with the cartridge 25600 and the channel 25310 of the end effector 25300 (FIG. 64). In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge nose assembly 25800 includes a nose assembly body 25802 that is movably coupled to the distal end 25606 of the cartridge body 25602. As can be seen in FIGS. 81 and 82 , the distal end portion 25606 of the cartridge body 25602 includes a distally extending tapered portion 25605 adapted to receive a complementary shaped nose in the nose assembly body 25802 inside the notch 25804. Additionally, the nose assembly body 25802 is configured with an axial alignment feature (not shown) that can be slidably supported in a shaft disposed in the distal end portion 25606 of the cartridge body 25602 Axial groove 25607.

As can be seen in FIGS. 83 and 84 , the nasal retainer latch arm 25810 extends proximally from the upper portion of the nasal assembly body 25802 into a latch cavity 25680 formed in the cartridge body 25602. The nose assembly body 25802 is axially movable from the locked position shown in FIGS. 81 and 83 to the unlocked position shown in FIGS. 82 and 84 . When the nose assembly body 25802 is in the unlocked position, the retention latch 25812 formed on the proximal end of the retainer latch arm 25810 engages the retention lug 25682 formed on the distal end portion 25606 of the cartridge body 25602, to retain the cartridge nose assembly 25800 on the distal end 25606 of the cartridge body 25602.

Referring now to FIGS. 81 and 82 , the nose assembly body 25802 also includes a proximally extending nose tab portion 25820 sized to frictionally engage the distal end 25315 formed on the channel 25310 Corresponding distally extending channel flanges 25317 to hold the nose assembly 25800 in a proximally forward "locked position". As can be seen in FIGS. 83 and 84 , the nose assembly body 25802 may also include an integral spring arm 25830 configured to engage with a distally extending tapered portion 25605 formed on the cartridge body 25602 The spring lugs 25684 meet. The spring arms 25830 apply a distal biasing force BF to the cartridge nose assembly 25800 to increase the frictional force between the nose tab portion 25820 and the channel flange 25317 to maintain the cartridge nose assembly 25800 in the locked position.

In operation, when the cartridge 25600 is in its unfired state and ready to be installed in the channel 25310, the cartridge nose assembly 25800 is in the locked position. To install the unfired cartridge 25600 into the end effector 25300, the cartridge body 25602 is placed in the channel 25310 and then advanced proximally therein to engage the channel flange 25317 with the nose tab portion 25820, as shown 81 and Figure 82. As described above, when the cartridge 25600 is not fired, the cam action assembly 25650 is in its proximal most starting position. During the firing process, the cam action assembly 25650 is driven in the cartridge body 25602 to its most distal position therein. When the cam action assembly 25650 reaches its distal-most position, the central body portion 25651 of the cam action assembly 25650 contacts the cartridge nose assembly 25800 with sufficient force to overcome the frictional force FF that holds the cartridge nose assembly 25800 in the locked position , and axially move the cartridge nose assembly 25800 to the unlocked position. In an alternative alternative, the user may disengage the cartridge nose assembly 25800 by pulling the cartridge nose assembly distally to the unlocked position. Once the cartridge nose assembly 25800 is moved to the unlocked position, the cartridge 25600 can be removed from the elongated channel 25310. Additionally, the distally extending cartridge nose assembly 25800 can provide the user with a visual indication that the cartridge has been fired (depleted).

Figures 85 and 86 show a portion of a surgical end effector 26300 employing a firing member 26120 that can be configured to be advanced distally by a rotationally powered firing system or an axially powered (non-rotationally powered) firing system . In particular, the firing member 26120 may incorporate any of the various end effector arrangements and firing drive system configurations disclosed herein as well as those described in the various references incorporated herein by reference External actuator and firing drive system configurations are used.

As can be seen in FIGS. 85 and 86, the firing member 26120 includes a firing member body 26122 that includes a firing member latch system 26140 that includes a firing member latch pivotally attached to the firing member body 26122 Piece 26142. The firing member latch 26142 includes a latch body 26144 that includes a pair of legs 26146 spanning across the firing member body 26122 and pivotally attached thereto. The latch body 26144 also includes a slider latch 26148 that is configured to contact a cam-action slider or cam-action assembly 26650 operably supported in a staple cartridge (not shown). Figure 85 shows the firing member 26120 in the proximal-most starting position. As can be seen in FIGS. 85 and 86, a firing lockout aperture 26315 is provided through the bottom portion 26312 of the elongated channel 26310 of the end effector 26300. The latching spring 26150 is mounted in the elongated channel 26310 and is configured to bias the firing member latch 26142 downward such that if a fresh, unfired staple cartridge has not been properly loaded into the elongated channel 26310, the latching of the main body 26144 is blocked. The distal edge 26149 engages the angled distal edge 26317 of the firing latch hole 26315. When in this position, the firing member latch 26142 prevents distal advancement of the firing member 26120 if the user inadvertently attempts to advance the firing member 26120 distally, as shown in FIG. 86 .

A fresh, unfired surgical staple cartridge contains a cam action assembly 26650 in a starting or unfired position proximal of the rows of staple drivers supported in the cartridge body. As used herein, the term "fresh, unfired" means that all of the intended staples or fasteners of the staple cartridge are in their respective unfired positions and the cam action assembly is in the proximal unfired starting position. When a fresh, unfired surgical staple cartridge has been properly seated within the elongated channel 26310, the proximally extending unlocking portion 26653 on the cam action assembly 26650 engages the slider latch 26148 on the firing member latch 26142 to allow firing The member latch 26142 pivots to an unlocked position where the firing member latch 26142 does not extend into the firing latch aperture 26315 in the elongated channel 26310. Figure 85 shows the cam action assembly 26650 in the starting position, and the firing member 26120 is free to advance distally by actuating the firing drive system.

Upon completion of the firing process, the cam action assembly 26650 can remain at the distal end of the staple cartridge (ie, in the "fired" position) while the firing member 26120 is retracted to its starting position, where the anvil The seat can be opened and the spent bin removed from the channel 26310. Thus, once the surgical staple cartridge has been depleted (eg, fully fired), the cam action assembly 26650 does not return to its starting position. Therefore, if a depleted cartridge is to be inadvertently re-installed in the end effector 26300, the cam action assembly 26650 is not in the starting position where the cam action assembly 26650 can unlock the firing member latch 26142. Accordingly, the firing member lockout system 26140 may also be referred to herein as an "exhausted cartridge lockout system."

87-90 illustrate an anvil 26400 configured to be pivotably supported on various types of channels 26310 or similar channels disclosed herein. In Figures 87 and 89, channels have been omitted for clarity. In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil 26400 includes a cartridge verification system 26440 that can be configured to prevent firing of an incompatible cartridge that would otherwise be positioned in the cartridge. Anvil 26400 and cartridge validation system 26440 may be used in conjunction with surgical end effector 26300 employing firing member 26120 equipped with an on-board firing member latching system 26140 configured to Distal advancement of the firing member 26120 can be prevented unless the firing member latch 26142 has been moved to the unlocked position by interfacing with a corresponding cam action assembly located in the surgical staple cartridge. The cartridge validation system 26440 can also be used in conjunction with a surgical end effector that employs an axially advanced (non-rotating) firing member otherwise equipped with a similar firing member latching system 26140. The firing member lockout system.

90 shows a portion of a surgical staple cartridge 26600 that is compatible with a surgical end effector 26300. In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 26600 includes an elongated cartridge body 26602 sized to be removably seated in an elongated channel of the end effector 26300. The cartridge body 26602 includes a cartridge slot 26608 extending from the proximal end portion 26604 of the cartridge body 26602 to the distal end portion. The cartridge body 26602 also includes a cartridge deck surface 26610 that faces the staple forming lower surface 26404 of the anvil 26400 when the cartridge 26600 is seated in the channel and the anvil 26400 is pivoted to the closed position. Although not shown in FIG. 90 , the surgical staple cartridge 26600 can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 26608 that are opened through the cartridge deck surface 26610 . Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 26602 is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 26602 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. The cartridge pan 26620 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 26602 once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets. When installed, the cartridge pan 26620 may (among other things) prevent the drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 26602 during the handling and installation of the cartridge 26600 into the elongated channel 26310.

In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge 26600 operably supports the cam action assembly 26650 therein. Cam action assembly 26650 includes a central body portion 26652 and a series of spaced apart cam members 26654 configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 26609 forming cartridges in cartridge body 26602 Slot 26608 on each side. The cam slots 26609 are aligned with corresponding rows of drivers in the cartridge body 26602 to be driven through the staple cartridge 26600 to the distal end of the cartridge body 26602 at the starting position of the cam action assembly 26650 from within the proximal end portion 26604 of the cartridge body 26602 The end position within the side end portion facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member 26654. The central body portion 26652" includes a proximally extending unlocking portion 26653" that is configured to engage the slider latch 26148 on the firing member lock 26142 when the cartridge 26600" has been properly loaded into the channel 26310". As can be seen in Figure 90, each of the cam members 26654 can protrude proximally when the cam action assembly 26650 is in its proximal-most starting position, wherein the unlocking portion 26653 can move the firing member latch 26142 to the unlocked position out of its corresponding cam slot 26609.

Referring now to FIGS. 87 and 91 , in the arrangement shown, the cartridge verification system 26440 includes a cartridge verification member or shuttle member 26442 attached to the anvil mounting portion 26410 of the anvil 26400 underside. The cartridge validation member 26442 may be of unitary construction and includes a pair of downwardly extending shuttle legs 26444 bifurcated by a firing member slot 26447 (FIG. 91) for for the passage of the firing member 26120 therebetween. In other arrangements, the cartridge validation member 26442 may be of a two-piece construction consisting of two separate downwardly extending shuttle legs 26444 separated from each other by a spacing 26448 that is constructed to accommodate the firing member body 26122 to pass therethrough. In either case, the shuttle member 26442 may be made of a compliant polymer or rubber material and may be attached to the underside of the anvil mounting portion 26410 by a suitable adhesive in a fastener arrangement.

In the illustrated example, each shuttle leg 26444 includes a distally projecting slider actuator arm 26446. Returning to FIG. 90 , the cartridge body 26602 includes two proximally projecting authentication features or cartridge key portions 26630 that are configured to be unlocked when the cartridge 26600 is operably seated in the channel 26310 The slider actuator arms 26446 on the corresponding shuttle legs 26444 are engaged. As will be discussed further below, if there is no authentication feature 26630 contacting the corresponding slider actuator arm 26446, the slider actuator arm 26446 would otherwise contact the protruding cam member 26654 and push the cam action assembly 26650 away Side push or push to a position where the unlocking portion 26653 on the cam action assembly 26650 is no longer in unlocking engagement with the slider latch 26148 on the firing member lock 26142.

The interface between the bin verification system 26440 and the bin 26600 can be understood with reference to FIGS. 87-92 . 87 shows the initial installation of a compatible surgical staple cartridge 26600 into the end effector 26300. Anvil 26400 is shown in a fully open position, although the channel has been omitted from the drawings. In the illustrated example, the anvil 26400 is movably journaled on the channel such that when an initial closing action is applied thereto from the closure member arrangement of many of the various closure systems described herein, the anvil 26400 pivots Go to the partially closed or neutral position shown in Figure 88. When in this position, each slider actuator arm 26446 is face-aligned with a corresponding verification feature 26630 on the cartridge body 26602. Further application of a closing action to the anvil 26400 may also cause the anvil 26400 to be translated distally to the closed position. When the anvil 26400 is moved distally, the verification features 26630 block the distal movement of the corresponding compliant slider actuator arms 26446 to prevent the slider actuator arms 26446 from contacting the proximally protruding cam members 26654. Thus, the cam action assembly 26650 remains in its starting position in which the unlocking portion 26653 on the cam action assembly 26650 remains in unlocked engagement with the slider latch 26148 on the firing member lock 26142. Thus, upon actuation of the firing drive system, the firing member 26120 is free to move distally through the cartridge 26600.

FIG. 92 shows a cartridge 26600X that may be very similar to the cartridge 26600 but is "incompatible" with the surgical end effector 26300. For example, bin 26600X lacks the authentication feature or key portion 26630 of bin 26600. In addition to lacking the authentication feature or key 26630, the cartridge 26600X may also differ from the cartridge 26600 in the number, size, location, etc. of the fasteners contained therein, despite the fact that the cartridge 26600X may have a cam action assembly 26650 that cam The action assembly is identical in construction and use to the cam action assembly 26650 employed in the cartridge 26600.

93-95 illustrate the insertion of the incompatible cartridge 26600X into the surgical end effector 26300. 93 shows the initial installation of the incompatible surgical staple cartridge 26600X into the end effector 26300. Anvil 26400 is shown in a fully open position, although the channel has been omitted from the drawings. Figure 94 shows the anvil 26400 in an intermediate position when an initial closing action is applied thereto. When in this position, each slider actuator arm 26446 is in facing alignment with a corresponding cam member 26654 that protrudes proximally out of its corresponding cam slot 26609. Further application of a closing action to the anvil 26400 may cause the anvil 26400 to be translated distally to a final closed position. When the anvil 26400 is moved distally, the slider actuator arm 26446 contacts the proximally protruding cam member 26654 and moves the cam action assembly 26650 distally to a point where the unlocking portion 26653 on that point is No longer engages the slider latch 26148 on the firing member lock 26142. Accordingly, the firing member latch 26142 remains in locking engagement with the elongated channel 26310 of the end effector 26300 to prevent distal advancement of the firing member 26120 when the firing drive system is actuated.

FIGS. 96-98 illustrate another cartridge validation system 26440 that may be used with an end effector 26300 employing a firing member axially advanced by the firing member beam 1900 in various manners discussed herein 20500. As described above, the firing member 20500 includes a firing member body 20502 that is configured to pass axially through the anvil (not shown), the staple cartridge 26600', and the vertically aligned vertical passages 26310'. slot. A lower foot assembly 20506 including a pair of laterally extending lower flanges extends from the bottom end of the firing member body 20502 to slidably engage corresponding channel flanges formed on each side of the channel slot. An upper foot including two laterally extending anvil tabs 20507 may be formed on the upper end of the firing member body 20502 and configured to slidably engage an anvil formed on each side of the anvil slot Flange (not shown). In at least one arrangement, the firing member 20500 also includes a pair of central tabs (not shown) extending laterally from each side of the firing member body 20502.

The firing member body 20502 is also configured to have a proximally extending spring tail 20512 configured to operably interface with a firing member latching spring (not shown) mounted in the elongated channel 26310 and configured to bias the firing member 20500 downwardly in the elongated channel 26310 to the locked position. When in the locked position, the firing member feet 20506 and/or central tabs are not aligned with the corresponding passageways in the channel 20310', and thus, if the user attempts to advance the firing member 20500 distally while in the locked state, the firing The member 20500 will not move distally due to such misalignment. That is, the feet 20506 and/or the central tab contact portions of the elongated channel 20310', thereby preventing distal advancement of the firing member 20500. In one arrangement, the slider latch 20514 is formed on the firing member body 20502 and is configured to be engageable by a proximally extending unlocking portion 26653' on the cam action assembly 26650' that is operatively Supported at the proximal-most starting position within the compatibility compartment 26600', which has been operably seated in the channel 26310'. When a fresh, unfired staple cartridge 26600' with its cam action assembly 26650' in its unfired position has been operably installed in the elongated channel 26310', the unlocking portion 26653' on the cam action assembly 26650' engages the firing member body The slider on 20502 latches 20514 and moves the firing member 20500 up into an unlocked position where the lower foot assembly 20506 and/or the central tab aligns with their corresponding passages in the channel 26310' to allow the firing member 20500 to remain in place. where axial advance. When the user advances the firing member 20500 distally into the cartridge 26600', the firing member 20500 also drives the cam action assembly 20650' therein which cams the driver upward to drive the staples or fasteners supported thereon The piece comes into contact with the underside of the anvil. The tissue cutting member 20504 on the firing member 20500 then cuts through the stapled tissue. Once the firing member 20500 has been driven to its distal-most position corresponding to the end position of the cam action assembly 26650', the firing member 20500 is retracted to its most distal position, leaving the cam action assembly 26650' in the position of the cartridge 26600' in the distal end. When the firing member 20500 returns to its most proximal starting position, the locking spring again biases the firing member 20500 back to its locked position. Thus, if a user inadvertently attempts to reuse a depleted cartridge, the cam action assembly 26650' is not in its desired starting position to unlock the firing member 20500. Accordingly, this firing member latching arrangement may also be referred to herein as an "exhausted cartridge latching arrangement".

In the arrangement shown in Figures 96 and 97, the cartridge verification system 26440' includes an axially movable cartridge verification member or placement shuttle 26442' supported by the axially movable cartridge verification member or placement shuttle Within channel 26310' for axial movement from a distal-most cartridge engagement position within channel 26310' to a proximal verification position. A shuttle spring 26449' is mounted within the channel 26310' and is used to bias the cartridge verification member or placement shuttle 26442' to the distal-most cartridge engagement position. As can be seen in Figures 96 and 97, the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 26442' also includes a pair of distally projecting slider actuator arms 26446'. The slider actuator arm 26446' is positioned to contact a corresponding cam member on the cam action assembly of the non-compliant cartridge, as will be discussed below.

Figure 98 shows a proximal end portion 26604' of a surgical staple cartridge 26600' compatible with a surgical end effector 26300'. In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 26600' includes an elongated cartridge body 26602' sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 26310'. The cartridge body 26602' includes a cartridge slot 26608' extending from the proximal end portion 26604' to the distal end portion of the cartridge body 26602'. The cartridge body 26602' also includes a cartridge deck surface 26610' that faces the staple forming lower surface of the anvil when the cartridge 26600' is seated in the channel 26310' and the anvil is pivoted to the closed position. Although not shown in Figure 98, the surgical staple cartridge 26600' can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 26608' that pass through the cartridge deck surface 26610' open. Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 26602' is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 26602' to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. Once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets, the cartridge pan 26620' is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 26602'. When installed, cartridge tray 26620' may (among other things) prevent drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of cartridge body 26602' during cartridge 26600' handling and installation into elongated channel 26310'.

In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge 26600' operably supports the cam action assembly 26650' therein. Cam action assembly 26650' includes a central body portion 26652' and a series of spaced apart cam members 26654' configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 26609' formed in the cartridge body 26602' on each side of the cartridge slot 26608'. Cam slot 26609' is aligned with a corresponding row of drivers in cartridge body 26602' to be driven through staple cartridge 26600' at a starting position of cam action assembly 26650' from within proximal end portion 26604' of cartridge body 26602' To the end position within the distal end portion of the cartridge body 26602' facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member 26654'. The central body portion 26652' includes a proximally extending unlocking portion 26653' configured to engage the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500 when the cartridge 26600' has been properly loaded into the channel 26310'.

Compatible cartridge 26600' also includes proximally protruding authentication features or key formations 26630' that are configured to engage the slider when cartridge 26600' is operably seated in channel 26310' Actuator arm 26446'. In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge body 26602' additionally has two side authentication features or cartridge key forming portions 26632' that are also configured to engage a cartridge authentication member or shuttle Piece 26442'. As will be discussed further below, if there are no authentication formations 26630', 26632' contacting the corresponding slider actuator arm 26446' and the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 26442', the slider actuator arm 26446' will be otherwise contacts the protruding cam member 26654' and pushes or pushes the cam action assembly 26650' distally into which the unlocking portion 26653' on the cam action assembly 26650' is no longer in unlocking engagement with the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500 s position.

Turning now to Figures 99-101, in the illustrated arrangement, the verification features or key forming portions 26630', 26632' each have an angled lower alignment surface 26634' thereon, the angled lower alignment surface The initial insertion of the cartridge 26600' into the channel 26310' at the first position angle FPA is facilitated, wherein the angled lower alignment surface 26634' avoids abutting contact with the slider actuator arm 26446'. Surface 26634' may be referred to herein as a subsurface. Once the user has positioned the surgical staple cartridge 26600' in the first installation position, the cartridge 26600' is pivoted down into the channel 26310', into position 2, where the verification feature or cartridge key forming portion 26630', 26632' is on The vertical abutment surfaces 26636' (minor surfaces) abut the corresponding vertical abutment surfaces 26641' and 26647' (major surfaces) on the cartridge verification member or shuttle 26442'. The user can then advance the cartridge 26600' proximally to position 3 within the elongated channel 26310'.

Figure 102 shows the insertion of the incompatible cartridge 26600X' into the surgical end effector 26300'. In this example, the incompatible cartridge 26600X' lacks the verification features or cartridge key forming portions 26630', 26632' disposed on the compatible cartridge 26600' to engage the cartridge verification member or shuttle 26442'. Thus, when the cartridge 26600X' is seated in the channel 26310', the slider actuator arm 26446' contacts the protruding cam member 26654' and pushes or pushes the cam action assembly 26650' distally or onto the cam action assembly 26650' therein The position where the unlocking portion 26653' does not unlock engagement with the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500. Thus, the firing member 20500 remains locked in place and the user will not be able to advance the firing member 20500 distally into the incompatible cartridge 26600X'.

FIGS. 103 and 104 illustrate the insertion of the incompatible cartridge 26600X' into the end effector 26300', where the incompatible cartridge 26600X' has initially been inserted proximally too far into the channel 26310', such that the distal side of the firing member 20500 The end has contacted and pushed the cam action assembly 26650' or "slider" too far distally within the cartridge 26600X' to be in position unlocked after the cartridge 26600X' has finally settled in place in the channel 26310' The slider latch 20514 portion of the firing member 20500 is engaged. Likewise, when the incompatible cartridge 26600X' is initially inserted into the diagonal position 1 as described above, and then moved to positions 2 and 3, the firing member 20500 can knock the cam action assembly 26650' or slider distally out of the firing member unlocked position, Such that once properly seated, the cam action assembly 26650' will not be able to unlock the firing member 20500. See Figure 105 and Figure 106.

Figures 107-109 illustrate another cartridge validation system 26440" that can be used with an end effector 26300" that employs an axially advanced by firing member beam 1900 in various manners discussed herein Firing member 20500. As described above, the firing member 20500 includes a firing member body 20502 that is configured to pass axially through the anvil (not shown), the staple cartridge, and vertically aligned slots in the elongated channel 26310" A lower foot assembly (not shown) including a pair of laterally extending lower flanges extends from the bottom end of the firing member body 20502 to slidably engage corresponding channel flanges formed on each side of the channel slot An upper foot 20507 including two laterally extending anvil tabs 20509 may be formed on the upper end of the firing member body 20502 and configured to slidably engage a Anvil flange (not shown). In at least one arrangement, the firing member 20500 also includes a pair of central tabs 20510 extending laterally from each side of the firing member body 20502.

The firing member body 20502 is also configured to have a proximally extending spring tail (not shown) configured to operably interface with a firing member latching spring (not shown) that is mounted to the firing member latching spring In the elongated channel 26310" and configured to bias the firing member 20500 downwardly in the elongated channel 26310' to a locked position. When in the locked position, the firing member feet and/or center tabs 20510 communicate with the channel. When the corresponding passages in 20310 are misaligned, and therefore, if the user attempts to advance the firing member 20500 distally while in this locked state, the firing member 20500 will not move distally due to such misalignment. That is, the foot The outer and/or central tabs 20510 contact portions of the elongated channel 26310", thereby preventing distal advancement of the firing member 20500. In one arrangement, a slider latch 20514 is formed on the firing member body 20502 and is configured to be engageable by a proximally extending unlocking portion on a cam action assembly operably supported in a compatible cartridge In the proximal-most starting position, the compatible cartridge has been operably seated in channel 26310".

When a fresh, unfired compatible staple cartridge with its cam action assembly in its starting (unfired) position has been operably installed in the elongated channel 26310", the unlocking portion on the cam action assembly engages the latch on the firing member body 20502. The slider latches 20514 and moves the firing member 20500 upward into an unlocked position where the lower foot assembly and/or center tab 20510 is aligned with its corresponding passage in the channel 26310" to allow the firing member 20500 to axially therein. advance. When the user advances the firing member 20500 distally into the cartridge, the firing member 20500 also drives the cam action assembly therein which cams the driver upward to drive the staples or fasteners supported thereon and the anvil contact on the underside. The tissue cutting member 20504 on the firing member 20500 then cuts through the stapled tissue. Once the firing member 20500 has been driven to its distal-most position corresponding to the end position of the cam action assembly, the firing member 20500 is retracted to its most distal position, leaving the cam action assembly at the distal end of the cartridge (firing location). When the firing member 20500 returns to its most proximal starting position, the locking spring again biases the firing member 20500 back to its locked position. Thus, if a user inadvertently attempts to reuse a depleted cartridge, the cam action assembly is not in the starting position it needs to unlock the firing member 20500. Such firing member locking systems may also be referred to herein as "exhausted cartridge locking systems."

In the arrangement shown in Figures 107-109, the cartridge verification system 26440" includes an axially movable cartridge verification shuttle 26442" supported within the channel 26310", for axial movement from the distal-most cartridge engagement position within the channel 26310" to the proximal verification position. A shuttle spring 26449" is installed within the channel 26310" and is used to bias the cartridge verification shuttle 26442" to the distal-most cartridge engagement position. As can be seen in Figures 107 and 108, the cartridge verification shuttle 26442" Also included are a distally extending shuttle base member 26644" and a pair of laterally movable shuttle drive arms 26450". Each shuttle drive arm 26450" has drive latch features 26452" thereon with angled proximal drive surfaces 26454" and angled distal drive surfaces 26456" The angled proximal drive surface and the angled distal drive surface converge to form point 26548". Shuttle drive arm 26450" is biased laterally inwardly to the drive position by shuttle spring 26449". When the shuttle drive arm 26450" is in the drive position, the angled proximal drive surface 26454" is in driving engagement with the central tab 20510 on the firing member 20500, as shown in Figures 107 and 108. When the shuttle drive arm 26450" is in the driving position In this position, distal advancement of the firing member 20500 will cause the placement shuttle 26442" to move distally with it.

Figure 109 shows the proximal end portion 26604" of the surgical staple cartridge 26600" compatible with the surgical end effector 26300" and seated within the channel 26310". In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 26600" includes an elongated cartridge body 26602" sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 26310". The cartridge body 26602" includes an elongated cartridge body 26602" The proximal end portion 26604" of the "extends into a cartridge slot 26608" of the distal end portion. The cartridge 26600" operably supports a cam action assembly 26650" therein. The cam action assembly 26650" includes a central body portion 26652" and A series of spaced apart cam members 26654" configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 26609" formed in each of the cartridge slots 26608" in the cartridge body 26602" The cam slots 26609" align with corresponding row drivers in the cartridge body 26602" to be driven through the staples at the starting position of the cam action assembly 26650" from within the proximal end portion 26604" of the cartridge body 26602" The end position of the cartridge 26600" into the distal end portion of the cartridge body 26602" facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member 26654". The central body portion 26652" includes a proximally extending unlocking portion 26653" that unlocks The portion is configured to engage the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500 when the cartridge 26600" has been properly loaded into the channel 26310".

Compatible cartridge 26600" also includes proximally protruding unlocking features or cartridge key formations 26630" that are configured to engage when cartridge 26600" is operably seated in channel 26310" Shuttle drive arms 26450". As can be seen in Figure 109, during distal advancement of firing member 20500, verification shuttles 26442" are driven distally until each shuttle drive arm 26450" contacts the corresponding Cartridge key formation 26630", which causes shuttle drive arm 26450" to be biased laterally outward. As firing member 20500 continues to move distally, drive latch feature 26452" on shuttle drive arm 26450" Disengages from corresponding central tabs 20510 on the firing member body 20502 to allow the firing member 20500 to move distally without driving the verification shuttle 26442" distally. Thus, in this case, it is verified that the shuttle 26442" has not moved distally enough to cause the cam action assembly 26650" to move out of unlocking engagement with the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500. Thus, the firing member 20500 can be driven distally through the compatible cartridge 26600" to drive fasteners therefrom and cut tissue that has been clamped in the end effector 26300". When the firing member 20500 is retracted to its starting position, the tapered surface 20511 on each central tab 20510 contacts the angled distal drive surface 26456" on the corresponding drive latch feature 26452" to deflect laterally Depressing the shuttle arm 26450" allows the central tab 20510 to re-engage the angled proximal drive surface 26454" so that the verification shuttle 26442" can again be driven distally with the firing member 20500.

Figures 107 and 108 show the incompatible cartridge 26600X" loaded into the surgical end effector 26300". As can be seen in those figures, the incompatible cartridge 26600X" lacks the proximally protruding unlock feature or cartridge key forming 26630" disposed on the compatible cartridge 26600". Thus, when the firing member 20500 is advanced distally, the cartridge Verify that the shuttle 26442" also moves distally with the firing member 20500. As the cartridge verification shuttle 26442" moves distally, the distal end 26645" of the distally extending shuttle base member 26644" contacts the cam action assembly 26650" and moves the cam action assembly 26650" into Not in unlocking engagement with the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500. When the unlocking portion 26653" of the cam action assembly 26650" is disengaged from the slider latch 20514, the firing member body 20502 will fall into engagement with the elongated channel 26310" Locking engagement prevents further distal advancement of the firing member 20500.

As further seen in Figures 108 and 109, in the illustrated arrangement, lateral stiffener members 26470" project laterally outward from each shuttle arm 26450". When the firing member 20500 and verification shuttle 26442" are in their respective proximal-most starting positions, each lateral stiffener member 26470" is lateral to a corresponding channel notch 26472" provided in each channel sidewall 26314" to provide clearance for shuttle arm 26450" to move laterally when compatible cartridge 26600" has been properly loaded into end effector 26300". However, when incompatible cartridge 26600X" is loaded into the end When the user begins to advance the firing member 20500 distally in the actuator 26300" and verify the shuttle 26442", the lateral stiffener member 26470" is no longer aligned with the channel notch 26472" in the channel sidewall 26314", As can be seen in Figure 108. In this case, the lateral stiffener members 26470" prevent the shuttle arms 26450" from biasing laterally outwardly into engagement with the centrally extending laterally from each side of the firing member body 20502. Sheet 20510 is disengaged.

The cartridge validation system described herein may address various issues that may be encountered from time to time when using an end effector capable of initially receiving multiple cartridges, some of which are not otherwise particularly compatible with the end effector. For example, a cartridge may operably fit into a channel of an end effector, but the cartridge may lack the correct fastener configuration compatible with the shaped pockets on the end effector anvil. Incompatible bins may not have the correct number and form of staples, etc. The cartridge may not have a cam action assembly compatible with the firing member latch arrangement employed by the end effector. Some cartridges may have suitable cam action assemblies, but the cam action assemblies may have moved to an edge unlocked position at some point where they unlockably or not engage the firing member latch arrangement. At least some of the warehouse verification systems can solve this problem. The bin verification system disclosed herein may also provide the ability to distinguish between an old discarded bin and a newer more suitable bin having features that, for example, mate better with end effector components. The cartridge verification system also ensures that the cartridge is properly seated in the end effector channel and minimizes any misalignment of the cartridge in the channel where the proximal end of the cartridge is positioned in an undesired position relative to the firing member, where In this position, the central tab on the firing member can be positioned below the cartridge pan rather than on top of it as desired. Such misalignment can lead to damage and buckling of the cartridge pan, which can lead to premature locking of the firing member.

Figures 110-115 illustrate another cartridge validation system 27440 that may be used with an end effector 27300 employing a firing member axially advanced by the firing member beam 1900 in various manners discussed herein 20500 (as above). In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge validation system 27440 includes an axially movable cartridge validation member or shuttle 27442 supported within the channel 27310 of the end effector 27300 , for axial movement from the distal-most cartridge engagement position within the channel 27310 to the proximal verification position. The cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 may be made of spring steel and includes an elongated body 27444 having blocking hooks 27446 formed on a distal end 27445 of the elongated body 27444. See Figure 111. The cartridge validation member or shuttle 27442 also includes an actuator portion 27448 formed on the proximal end 27447 of the elongated body 27444.

Still referring to FIG. 111 , the cartridge validation member or shuttle 27442 is configured to move axially within the shuttle track 27360 formed in the channel bottom 27312 of the channel 27310 . As can be seen in Figure 111, shuttle track 27360 includes a curved transverse portion 27362 extending transversely with respect to channel slot 27313 centrally positioned in channel bottom 27312 to accommodate axial passage of firing member 20500 therethrough . The laterally curved portion 27362 of the shuttle track 27360 terminates in an inclined track portion 27364 on the other side of the channel slot 27313. As can be seen in FIG. 111 , the inclined track portion 27364 has an angled bottom surface 27366 . The proximal end 27370 of the shuttle track 27360 abuts an axial spring cavity 27380 configured to support a shuttle spring 27382 that is journaled on the spring retainer pin 27449, The spring retainer pin protrudes proximally from the actuator portion 27448 of the cartridge validation member or shuttle 27442. Shuttle spring 27382 is used to bias verification shuttle 27442 to the most distal locked position where cartridge verification member or shuttle 27442 blocks distal advancement of cam action assembly 27650 and firing member 20500 .

110 shows a proximal end portion 27604 of a surgical staple cartridge 27600 that is compatible with the surgical end effector 27300. In at least one arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 27600 includes an elongated cartridge body 27602 sized to be removably seated in the elongated channel 27310. The cartridge body 27602 includes a cartridge slot 27608 extending from the proximal end portion 27604 of the cartridge body 27602 to the distal end portion. The cartridge body 27602 also includes a cartridge deck surface 27610 that faces the staple forming lower surface of the anvil when the cartridge 27600 is seated in the channel 27310 and the anvil is pivoted to the closed position. Although not shown in FIG. 110 , the surgical staple cartridge 27600 can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 27608 that are opened through the cartridge deck surface 27610 . Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 27602 is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 27602 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. The cartridge pan 27620 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 27602 once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets. When installed, the cartridge pan 27620 may (among other things) prevent the drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 27602 during the handling and installation of the cartridge 27600 into the elongated channel 27310.

In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge 27600 operably supports the cam action assembly 27650 therein. The cam action assembly 27650 includes a central body portion 27652 and a series of spaced apart cam members 27654 configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 27609 forming cartridges in the cartridge body 27602 Slot 27608 on each side. The cam slots 27609 are aligned with corresponding rows of drivers in the cartridge body 27602 to be driven through the staple cartridge 27600 to the distal end of the cartridge body 27602 at the starting position of the cam action assembly 27650 from within the proximal end portion 27604 of the cartridge body 27602 The end position within the side end portion facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam member 27654. The central body portion 27652 includes a proximally extending unlocking portion 27653 configured to engage the slider latch 20514 on the firing member 20500 when the cartridge 27600 has been properly loaded into the channel 27310.

Compatible cartridge 27600 also includes a proximally protruding authentication feature or cartridge key formation 27630 configured to engage slider actuation when cartridge 27600 is operably seated in channel 27310 27448. The authentication feature 27630 biases the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 to a proximal-most unlocked position in which the cam action assembly 27650 and firing member 20500 can be displaced distally through the cartridge 27600. When the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 is in the unlocked position, blocking hooks 27446 formed on the distal end 27445 of the elongated body 27444 of the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 are retracted to the curvature of the shuttle track 27360 The transverse portion 27362 does not extend across the channel slot 27313 in the channel bottom 27312. When blocking hook 27446 does not extend across channel slot 27313, firing member 20500 and cam action assembly 27650 can be advanced into cartridge 27310".

114 and 115 illustrate a surgical end effector 27300 with an incompatible cartridge 27600X installed therein. In this example, the incompatible cartridge 27600X lacks an authentication feature or cartridge key forming portion 27630 disposed on the compatible cartridge 27600 to engage the actuator portion 27448 of the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442. Thus, the shuttle spring 27382 has biased the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 distally to its locked position, in which it is formed distal to the elongated body 27444 of the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 27442 Blocking hooks 27446 on end 27445 extend laterally across channel slot 27313 and into inclined track portion 27364. When blocking hook 27446 enters inclined track portion 27364, angled bottom surface 27366 causes blocking hook 27446 to move upwardly to a position where blocking hook 27446 blocks distal advancement of cam action assembly 27650 and firing member 20500. Thus, when in this position, if the user inadvertently attempts to advance the firing member 20500 distally, the blocking hook 27446 will block distal advancement of the cam action assembly 27650 and firing member 20500.

In at least one arrangement as shown in Fig. 115, the portion of the blocking hook 27446 that is attached laterally across the channel slot 27313 can be reinforced with an additional reinforcing blocking portion 27450. That is, the cross-sectional thickness of the reinforced portions of the blocking hook 27446 is greater than the cross-sectional thickness of the remaining body portion of the cartridge authentication member or shuttle 26442. Alternative arrangements are contemplated for use with those end effectors disclosed herein that employ an axially movable closure member (eg, an end effector closure tube) to move the anvil to a closed position . In such an end effector arrangement, for example, the end effector closure tube may be configured to bias the verification shuttle to the locked blocking position when the closure member is actuated to close the anvil. The cartridge validation system 27440 can also be effectively used with surgical end effectors having rotationally powered firing member arrangements with firing member latching systems of the type disclosed herein.

116-119 illustrate an alternative surgical staple cartridge 28600 that may be used in conjunction with the various end effector arrangements disclosed herein. In the illustrated arrangement, the surgical staple cartridge 28600 includes an elongated cartridge body 28602 sized to be removably seated in an elongated channel of an end effector. 117, the cartridge body 28602 includes a cartridge slot 28608 extending from the proximal end portion 28604 of the cartridge body 28602 to the distal end portion of the cartridge body 28602. The cartridge body 28602 also includes a cartridge deck surface 28610 that faces the staple forming lower surface of the anvil when the cartridge 28600 is seated in the channel and the anvil is pivoted to the closed position. Although not shown in Figure 117, the surgical staple cartridge 28600 can have multiple rows (typically three rows) of surgical staple pockets on each side of the cartridge slot 28608 that are opened through the cartridge deck surface 28610 . Each staple pocket may have a staple driver (not shown) associated therewith that supports surgical staples or fasteners (not shown) thereon. In at least one example, the cartridge body 28602 is molded from a polymeric material having spike pockets molded or machined therein. In one arrangement, the staple pockets are also open through the bottom of the cartridge body 28602 to facilitate installation of drivers and fasteners into their respective pockets. The cartridge pan 28620 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 28602 once the drivers and fasteners are inserted into their respective staple pockets. When installed, the cartridge pan 28620 may (among other things) prevent the drivers and fasteners from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 28602 during the handling and installation of the cartridge 28600 into the elongated channel.

In the illustrated arrangement, the cartridge 28600 operably supports the cam action assembly 28650 therein. The cam action assembly 28650 includes a central body portion 28652 and a series of spaced apart cam members 28654, 28654' configured for axial movement within corresponding cam slots 28609 formed in the cartridge body 28602 on each side of the cartridge slot 28608. The cam slots 28609 are aligned with corresponding row drivers in the cartridge body 28602 to be driven through the staple cartridge 28600 to the distal end of the cartridge body 28602 at the starting position of the cam action assembly 28650 from within the proximal end portion 28604 of the cartridge body 28602 The end position within the side end portions facilitates camming contact with the corresponding cam members 28654, 28654'.

Still referring to Figure 117, the cartridge 28600 is equipped with a cam action assembly locking system 28440 that is configured to hold the cam action assembly 28650 in its starting position unless the cartridge 28600 has been loaded into a compatible end performer in the device. In the illustrated arrangement, for example, the cam action assembly locking system 28440 includes a laterally displaceable locking feature 28442 that includes an actuator portion 28444 and a locking tab 28446. As can be seen in Figure 117, when the cam action assembly 28650 is in the locked position, the locking tabs 28446 are configured to be received within the locking cavities 28655 provided in the corresponding cam members 28654'. See Figures 116 and 117. The actuator portion 28444 is configured to be contacted by an actuator lug or other portion of the end effector anvil when the anvil is moved to the closed position. For example, the actuator lugs 28411 may be formed on the anvil mounting portion of any of the various anvils disclosed herein and configured to enable the actuator portion 28444 to be moved when the anvil is moved to the closed position Biased sideways to unlocked position. When the actuator portion 28444 is in the unlocked position, the locking tab 28446 moves laterally out of the locking cavity 28655 in the cam member 28654', and when the firing drive system is activated as described herein, the cam assembly 28650 can then move distally Advance through bin 28600. See Figures 118 and 119.

In various instances, the surgical stapling instrument includes a cartridge jaw configured to receive a replaceable staple cartridge. The stapling instrument also includes a staple firing system configured to eject or fire staples from the staple cartridge and an anvil that includes a shaped surface or pocket configured to deform the staples. The staple firing system includes a tissue cutter that moves from the proximal end toward the distal end of the staple cartridge during the staple firing stroke. During the staple firing stroke, the tissue cutter abuts and pushes a slide in the staple cartridge that drives the staples toward and against the anvil. When the staples are deformed against the anvil, the staples are implanted in tissue in longitudinal rows, and the tissue cutter cuts into tissue between two of the longitudinal rows of staples. After the staple firing stroke has been completed, and/or after a sufficient length of staple firing stroke has been completed, the tissue cutter is retracted proximally. However, the cartridge slide is not retracted proximally with the tissue cutter. Instead, the cartridge slider remains at the most distal position to which it is pushed by the tissue cutter. After the staple cartridge has been fired or at least partially fired, the staple cartridge is removed from the cartridge jaws, if desired, and replaced with another replaceable staple cartridge. At this point, the stapling instrument can be reused to continue stapling and incising the patient tissue. However, in some cases, a previously fired staple cartridge may be accidentally loaded into the cartridge jaws. If the tissue cutter were to be advanced distally within such a previously fired staple cartridge, the stapling instrument would cut the patient tissue without stapling the patient tissue. If the tissue cutter is advanced distally to complete the staple firing stroke without the staple cartridge positioned in the cartridge jaws at all, the stapling instrument will similarly cut the patient tissue without stapling the patient tissue. To this end, the stapling instrument includes one or more latches that prevent this from happening, as discussed in more detail below.

The disclosures of the following patent applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety: US Patent Application Publication 2004/0232200, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT," filed May 20, 2003; US Patent Application Publication 2004/0232199, HAVING A FIRINGLOCKOUT FOR AN UNCLOSED ANVIL"; US Patent Application Publication 2004/0232197, filed May 20, 2003, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN E-BEAM FIRINGMECHANISM"; US Patent Application Publication 2004/0232196, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS," filed May 20, 2003; "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION," filed May 20, 2003 OF FIRING" US Patent Application Publication 2004/0232195; and US Patent Application Publication 2018/0085123, entitled "ARTICULATINGSURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING A TWO-PIECE E-BEAM FIRINGMECHANISM", filed August 17, 2017.

120, a surgical stapling instrument 30000 includes a cartridge jaw or channel 30010 and a staple cartridge 30020 disposed in the cartridge jaw 30010. The staple cartridge 30020 includes a cartridge body 30022, staple cavities defined in the cartridge body 30022, and staples removably stored in the staple cavities. The staple cartridge 30020 also includes a sled 30030 and staple drivers that are driven by the sled 30030 to eject staples from the staple cavity as the sled 30030 is advanced distally during the staple firing stroke. The stapling instrument 30000 also includes a firing member 30040 configured to engage the slider 30030 and urge the slider 30030 distally, as discussed in more detail below.

In addition to the above, the firing member 30040 includes a cutting portion 30042 that includes a tissue knife 30044. The cutting portion 30042 also includes a distal nose 30043 that when the slider 30030 is in its unfired position in the staple cartridge 30020 and the firing member 30040 is moved distally from its unfired position shown in Figure 120 It is configured to be able to rest on a shoulder 30033 defined on the slider 30030. Once the distal nose 30043 is positioned on the slider shoulder 30033, the firing member 30040 can be advanced distally to perform the staple firing stroke. Notably, the cutting portion 30042 also includes a first camming member 30046 configured to engage a camming surface of the channel 30010 and a second camming member 30048 configured to engage a camming surface on the anvil of the stapling instrument 30000, The first cam member and the second cam action member cooperate to position the anvil and staple cartridge 30020 relative to each other. Even so, embodiments without one or both of the camming members 30046 and 30048 are contemplated.

121, the firing member 30040 is spring biased toward the channel 30010, and if the slider 30030 is not in its unfired position when the firing member 30040 is advanced distally to initiate the staple firing stroke, the distal nose of the cutting portion 30042 30043 will miss or not land on shoulder 30033 and cut portion 30042 will instead dive down towards channel 30010. The cutting portion 30042 includes latching pins 30045 extending laterally therefrom that enter latching windows or grooves 30012 defined in the channel 30010 when the distal nose 30043 does not rest on the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. In such cases, the firing member 30040 is allowed to travel distally within the lockout window 30012; however, the distal end of the lockout window 30012 includes a lockout shoulder 30015 that is contacted by the lockout pin 30045 to stop firing Distal advancement of member 30040. In such cases, therefore, the firing member 30040 is locked and prevented from performing its staple firing stroke. However, if the sled 30030 was in its unfired position, the interface between the distal nose 30043 of the cutting portion 30042 and the shoulder 30033 of the sled 30030 would have prevented the firing member 30040 from diving into the locking window 30012 and possibly executing the stapling firing stroke.

In addition to the above, if the firing member 30040 is advanced distally without the staple cartridge being positioned in the cartridge channel 30010 and/or the staple cartridge is not properly seated in the cartridge channel, the firing member 30040 will dive into the latching window 30012. In view of the foregoing, surgical instrument 30000 includes a latch that prevents staple firing travel if a staple cartridge in surgical instrument 30000 is missing, improperly seated, and/or at least partially depleted. Even so, various situations can arise where the staple cartridge has not yet been fired, ie, all of its staples are still positioned in the staple cavities of these staples, however, due to, for example, various manufacturing tolerances, the distal nose 30043 of the cutting portion 30042 may Missing shoulder 30033 of slider 30030. Such a situation would cause the firing member 30040 to lock out unnecessarily and require the clinician to replace the staple cartridge with another. Such conditions may not occur frequently, but when they do occur, they can be inconvenient to clinicians.

The surgical instrument 30100 is shown in FIG. 122 and includes improvements that reduce the likelihood that the distal nose 30043 of the cutting portion 30042 misses the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. Surgical instrument 30100 is similar in many respects to surgical instrument 30000, but includes staple cartridge 30120 instead of staple cartridge 30020. The staple cartridge 30120 includes a cartridge body 30122, staple cavities defined in the cartridge body 30122, and staples removably stored in the staple cavities. Referring to Figure 123, staple cartridge 30120 also includes a slider 30030 that, similar to the above, can be freed during the staple firing stroke if the distal nose 30043 of the cutting portion 30042 rests on the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. The firing position is moved distally. If not, see FIG. 124 , as the firing member 30040 is advanced distally, the cutting portion 30042 is pushed into the latching window 30012 defined in the cartridge channel 30010.

125 and 126, the cartridge body 30122 includes proximal ramps 30126 configured to lift the firing member 30040 upwardly as the firing member 30040 is advanced distally. More specifically, blocking pins 30045 extending laterally from the firing member 30040 contact the ramp surface 30127 defined on the proximal ramp 30126 and guide the cutting portion 30042 away from the blocking window 30012 as the firing member 30040 is advanced distally. In addition to the above, these latching pins do so against the spring biasing force that pushes the firing member 30040 toward the cartridge channel 30010. Raising the firing member 30040 in this manner increases the probability that the nose 30043 of the firing member 30040 will land on the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030 even if the slider 30030 has accidentally been pushed slightly distally from its unfired position. Thus, the possibility of accidental latching of an unfired staple cartridge is reduced. However, if the staple cartridge 30120 has been at least partially fired, the nose 30043 will miss the shoulder 30033 and the latching pin 30045 will fall into the latching window 30012 through the window 30125 defined between the proximal ramps 30126. Thus, as described above, if an at least partially depleted staple cartridge 30120 is seated in the cartridge channel 30010, the surgical instrument 30100 will be latched. Furthermore, as described above, if the staple cartridge is missing from the cartridge channel 30010, the surgical instrument 30100 will be latched and the staple firing stroke will be initiated when the firing member 30040 will immediately enter the latching window 30012 due to the absence of the proximal ramp 30126.

Notably, in addition to the above, the ramp 30126 is positioned proximally relative to the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. Thus, when the firing member 30040 is moved distally to perform the staple firing stroke, the firing member 30040 must continuously pass the missing cartridge/incorrect cartridge latch provided by the ramp 30126 and the spent cartridge provided by the slider 30030 locking piece. Additionally, the ramp 30126 lifts the firing member 30040 to the correct height supported by the slider 30030. Ultimately, the ramp 30126 of the cartridge body 30122 and the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030 work together to disable the latch of the stapling instrument 30100.

A staple cartridge 30220 according to at least one alternative embodiment is shown in FIG. 127 . The staple cartridge 30220 includes a cartridge body 30222 that is similar in many respects to the cartridge body 30122. Even so, the cartridge body 30222 includes a proximal ramp 30226 that extends more proximally than the proximal ramp 30126. Thus, when the staple cartridge 30220 is used, the firing member 30040 will be lifted earlier in its staple firing stroke. In various cases, the staple cartridge 30220 can include a larger drop window 30225 than the drop window 30125. Additionally, proximal ramp 30226 includes ramp surface 30227 that is shorter than ramp surface 30127 . In such a case, the firing member 30040 will not be lifted as high as when the staple cartridge 30220 is used, as compared to when the staple cartridge 30120 is used. In any event, such parameters can be used to train the firing member 30040 for proper lifting action.

As discussed above, the latching pin 30045 of the firing member 30040 is configured to contact the ramp 30226 that lifts the firing member 30040 so that if the slide 30030 is properly positioned in the staple cartridge 30220, the firing member 30040 can fall on the shoulder of the slide 30030 Section 30033 on. Even so, alternative embodiments are contemplated in which the ramp can lift any suitable portion of the staple firing member onto the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. For example, the firing member 30040 may include lamination rods attached to the cutting portion 30042 that contact the ramps 30226 and cause the firing member 30040 to be lifted upward upon initiation of the staple firing stroke.

Referring again to FIG. 127 , the staple cartridge 30220 includes a disk 30024 extending at least partially below the cartridge body 30222. The tray 30024 is configured to prevent the staple drivers and/or staples within the cartridge body 30222 from falling out of the bottom of the cartridge body 30222. The tray 30024 includes a latch 30021 that engages a slot defined in the cartridge body 30222. The tray 30024 also includes windows 30029 defined therein that cooperate with protrusions extending from the cartridge body 30222 to align the tray 30024 with the cartridge body 30222. In addition to or in lieu of the above, a lift ramp 30226 may extend from the disk 30024, for example.

Surgical stapling instrument 30300 is shown in FIG. 128 . Stapling instrument 30300 is similar to stapling instrument 30200 in many respects. Even so, stapling instrument 30300 includes staple cartridge 30320 instead of staple cartridge 30220. The staple cartridge 30320 includes a cartridge body 30322, staple cavities defined in the cartridge body 30322, and staples removably stored in the staple cavities. The cartridge body 30322 also includes a longitudinal slot 30023 defined therein that is configured to receive the firing member 30040, and a proximal ramp 30327 that additionally extends forward of the longitudinal slot 30023 if the slider 30030 is in or at least nearly in its unfired position position, these proximal ramps lift the firing member 30040 onto the slide 30030 as shown in FIG. 129 . If the slider 30030 has been advanced at least partially through its staple firing stroke, the shoulder 30033 will not catch the nose 30043 of the firing member 30040 and the cut portion 30042 will pass through the window defined between the ramp supports 30326 and falls into the locking window 30012. 130 and 132, the ramp 30327 also includes a door configured to pivot away from the firing member 30040 when sufficient thrust is applied to the firing member 30040. The ramp 30327 includes a first end rotatably mounted to one of the ramp supports 30326 and a second end releasably attached to the other ramp support 30326 . 131 and 133, the second end of the ramp 30327 is configured to be released from its ramp support 30326 after the firing member 30040 has been raised upward, so that once the ramp 30327 is deformed, if the slider 30030 is in its unfired position At least near its unfired position, the nose 30043 of the firing member 30040 rests on the shoulder 30033 of the slider 30030. At this point, the ramp 30327 no longer prevents distal movement of the firing member 30040, and the firing member 30040 can be advanced distally through the longitudinal slot 30023. The ramp 30327 remains displaced to the side during the entire staple firing stroke and after the firing member 30040 has been retracted to its unfired position. Thus, if the firing member 30040 were to be advanced distally again, the displaced ramp 30327 would not be able to lift the firing member 30040. In such a case, if the firing member 30040 is advanced distally before the depleted staple cartridge 30320 is replaced, the latching pin 30045 of the cutting portion 30042 will be pushed into the latching window 30012 by the spring acting on the firing member 30040. Thus, ramp 30327 acts as an exhausted bin lock. In at least one alternative embodiment, the ramp 30327 is configured to disengage from the cartridge body 30322 to release the firing member 30040.

Furthermore, in addition to the above, the latching arrangement of the stapling instrument 30300 also acts as an incorrect/incompatible cartridge latch. If an incorrect or incompatible staple cartridge without the ramp 30327 or another suitably configured ramp is placed in the cartridge channel 30010, the firing member 30040 will not be lifted onto the slide of the incorrect cartridge, and Instead, the lockout pin 30045 will be forced into the lockout window 30012, thereby locking out the staple firing system. In such cases, the firing member 30040 can be retracted to its unfired position and the incorrect/incompatible staple cartridge can be replaced with a correct/compatible staple cartridge. In operating rooms where certain staple cartridges are intended to be used only with certain stapling instruments, among other things, accidental exchange of an incorrect staple cartridge with a correct staple cartridge can occur.

As mentioned above, the ramp 30327 extends behind the slider 30030. Thus, the ramp 30327 can protect the slider 30030 from being accidentally knocked distally. In each case, the staple cartridge 30320 is loaded into the stapling instrument 30300 by first inserting the proximal end of the staple cartridge 30320 into the cartridge channel 30010 and then seating the staple cartridge 30320 in the cartridge channel 30010. Thus, there is a possibility that the slider 30030 will contact, for example, the cartridge channel 30010 and be pushed distally within the staple cartridge 30320 from its proximal unfired position. In such a case, the sled 30030 can no longer be positioned to disable the staple firing latch of the stapling instrument 30300 when the staple firing stroke is activated, so the staple cartridge 30320 will be considered depleted by the stapling firing latch, and The staple cartridge must be replaced in order to use the stapling instrument 30300. The ramp 30327 can prevent this as it extends proximally behind the slider 30030, and can prevent the slider 30030 from being knocked distally within the staple cartridge 30320 when the staple cartridge 30320 is installed.

As described above, the slider 30030, when properly positioned in the staple cartridge, disables the staple firing latch of the stapling instrument so that the staple firing stroke can be completed. In use, the firing member 30040 is advanced at least partially distally to assess whether the slider 30030 is properly positioned and whether the staple firing latch has failed. More specifically, the firing member 30040 is advanced distally until the firing member 30040 is supported by the sled 30030 to perform the staple firing stroke (if the sled 30030 is properly positioned in the staple cartridge 30320) or contact the latch shoulder 30015 (if slid). piece 30030 is not properly positioned in the staple cartridge 30320 or the staple cartridge 30320 is missing from the cartridge channel 30010). If the firing member 30040 contacts the latch shoulder 30015, it may be necessary to retract the firing member 30040 to be able to insert the unused staple cartridge 30320 into the cartridge channel 30010 and/or retract to begin another staple firing stroke. Accordingly, the surgical instrument 30400 of FIGS. 134 and 135 is configured to limit the travel of the firing member so that if the staple cartridge is missing from the cartridge channel, the firing member may stop before it reaches the latch shoulder 30015, as described in more detail below discuss.

In addition to the above, the firing member 30440 of the surgical instrument 30400 is similar in many respects to the firing member 30040, but includes a cutting member 30442 that includes a secondary blocking pin 30449 extending laterally therefrom. If the staple cartridge 30320 is not positioned in the cartridge channel 30410 of the stapling instrument 30400, when the firing member 30440 is advanced distally, the cutting member 30442 will immediately enter the latching window 30012 and the secondary latching pin 30449 will snap into contact with a Secondary latch shoulder 30419. Thus, if the staple cartridge 30320 is not present in the cartridge channel 30410, the firing member 30440 will not have to travel distally until it contacts the latch shoulder 30015. In such cases, the distance that the firing member 30440 needs to be retracted is at least reduced. In some cases, the secondary latch shoulder 30419 is positioned such that the cutting member 30442 does not need to be retracted at all. Thus, under such circumstances, the unused staple cartridge 30320 can be inserted into the channel 30410 and the staple firing stroke can be completed without having to retract the firing member 30440.

In addition to the above, the interface between the latch pin 30449 and the latch shoulder 30419 provides the missing bin latch. If the staple cartridge 30320 is seated in the cartridge channel 30410, the cutting member 30442 engages the ramp 30327 of the staple cartridge 30320, which lifts the latch pin 30449 over the latch shoulder 30419. In other words, the presence of the staple cartridge 30320 in the cartridge channel 30010 disables the secondary staple firing latch. Even so, the sled 30030 of the staple cartridge 30320 must be properly positioned in the staple cartridge 30320 to complete the staple firing stroke while the nose 30043 of the cutting member 30442 must still land on the shoulder 30033 of the sled 30030 in order to lock the latch The pin 30045 is raised over the latch shoulder 30015, as described above. In other words, the presence of the slider 30030 in its unfired position in the staple cartridge 30320 disables the primary firing latch, and the presence of the staple cartridge 30320 in the cartridge channel 30410 disables the secondary firing latch. Thus, stapling instrument 30400 includes a primary missing cartridge latch and a secondary missing cartridge latch, wherein the primary missing cartridge latch also serves as a depleted cartridge latch.

Surgical stapling instrument 30500 is shown in FIG. 136 . Stapling instrument 30500 is similar to stapling instrument 30000 in many respects. The stapling instrument 30500 includes, among other things, a cartridge channel 30510, a staple cartridge 30520 removably positionable in the cartridge channel 30510, a firing member 30040, and a staple firing latch 30514. The staple firing latch 30514 includes, for example, a resilient metal spring mounted in the cartridge channel 30510. Even so, the staple firing latch 30514 may be constructed of any suitable material. The staple firing latch 30514 includes a base mounted in the cartridge channel 30510 and a flexible locking arm 30516 extending from the base. Each flexible locking arm 30516 moves independently of each other and includes a locking window 30515 defined therein that is configured to receive and releasably capture a locking pin 30045 extending from the firing member 30040. The flexible locking arms 30516 are configured such that the arms extend inwardly toward and/or against the sides of the firing member 30040 and are thus biased to capture the locking pin 30045. When one or both of the latching pins 30045 are captured in the locking window 30515, the staple firing member 30040 is prevented from advancing distally to complete the staple firing stroke.

In addition to the above, the staple cartridge 30520 includes a cartridge body 30522, staple cavities defined in the cartridge body 30522, and staples removably stored in the staple cavities. The staple cartridge 30520 also includes a disk 30024 attached to the cartridge body 30522 and a slider configured to be able to travel distally within the staple cartridge 30520 to eject staples from the staple cavity during the staple firing stroke. Similar to the above, once the firing member 30040 has been unlocked, the firing member 30040 is configured to push the slider distally to perform the staple firing stroke. To this end, referring to FIGS. 136 and 139 , the cartridge body 30522 includes proximally extending protrusions or keys 30526 therefrom that are configured to engage the locking arms when the staple cartridge 30520 is seated in the cartridge channel 30510 30516. Notably, the ends of the locking arms 30516 flare outward so that when the tabs 30526 contact the locking arms 30516, the locking arms 30516 are not captured between the tabs 30526 and the firing member 30040. Accordingly, the protrusions 30526 bend the locking arms 30516 laterally outward so that when the staple cartridge 30520 is seated in the cartridge channel 30510, the locking pin 30045 extending from the firing member 30040 is no longer positioned in the locking window 30515 of the firing lock 30514 . Thus, the act of positioning the staple cartridge 30520 in the cartridge channel 30510 unlocks the stapling instrument 30500.

If the staple cartridge 30520 is not seated in the cartridge channel 30510 as described above, the firing member 30040 remains locked by the firing latch 30514 and the stapling instrument 30500 cannot be used to staple patient tissue. If a staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 30020, is placed in a cartridge channel 30510 that does not have tabs or keys 30526, it will not unlock the firing latch 30514, as shown in Figures 137 and 138, and thus the stapling instrument 30500 cannot be used for suturing patient tissue. As shown in FIGS. 137 and 138 , the proximal end of the cartridge body 30022 does not engage and/or displace the locking arms 30516 sufficiently. Thus, in this case, staple cartridge 30020 would be the incorrect staple cartridge because it would not unlock the staple firing drive of stapling instrument 30500, and accordingly, staple cartridge 30520 would be the correct staple cartridge since it could be unlocked Staple firing drive of stapling instrument 30500. Thus, the firing latch 30514 is both a missing and an incorrect cartridge latch. The stapling instrument 30500 may also include an exhausted cartridge latch. In the event that an incorrect staple cartridge is seated in stapling instrument 30500 and stapling instrument 30500 cannot be fired, the incorrect staple cartridge can be removed and the correct staple cartridge (ie, staple cartridge 30520 ) can be seated in stapling instrument 30500 to unlock the nail firing drive.

As described above in connection with stapling instrument 30000, referring again to FIG. 121, if slider 30030 is not in its correct position in staple cartridge 30020, latching pin 30045 of firing member 30040 engages locking shoulder 30015. Also as described above, the firing member 30040 of the stapling instrument 30000 is advanced distally before engaging the locking shoulder 30015, and thus has time to accelerate before contacting the locking shoulder 30015. Thus, the firing member 30040 of the stapling instrument 30000 can impact the locking shoulder 30015 with significant velocity and energy. Thus, the locking shoulder 30015 is robustly designed to absorb this impact; however, there is a possibility that the firing member 30040 could plow or blow over the locking shoulder 30015, thereby inadvertently deactivating the staple firing latch of the stapling instrument 30000. The latch 30514 of Figures 136 and 137 may reduce, if not eliminate, these potential problems. For example, the locking window 30515 of the firing latch 30514 is sized and configured to prevent little, if any, proximal and distal translation of the staple firing member 30040 when the locking arm 30516 is engaged with the locking pin 30045 , so the staple firing member 30040 has little, if any, time to accelerate before being stopped by the distal end of the locked window 30515. Furthermore, once the latching pin 30045 engages the distal end of the locking window 30515, the locking arms 30516 are placed under tension and thus can handle significant loads before failing if they fail completely.

As described above, when the staple cartridge 30520 is seated in the stapling instrument 30500, the two locking arms 30516 are disengaged from the firing member 30040 through the cartridge body 30522. Even so, alternative embodiments are contemplated in which a first component of the staple cartridge unlocks the first locking arm 30516 and a second component of the staple cartridge unlocks the second locking arm 30516 when the staple cartridge is seated in the stapling instrument 30500. For example, the cartridge body of the staple cartridge can unlock the first locking arm 30516 and the slide of the staple cartridge can unlock the second locking arm 30516.

FIG. 140 shows surgical stapling instrument 30600 and FIG. 141 shows surgical stapling instrument 30700. Stapling instruments 30600 and 30700 are similar to stapling instrument 30500 in many respects. 140, the stapling instrument 30600 includes a cartridge channel 30610, a staple cartridge 30620 removably positionable in the cartridge channel 30610, and a staple firing latch 30614 mounted to the cartridge channel 30610 that prevents advancement of the firing member 30040 The staple firing stroke is completed unless the staple cartridge 30620 is seated in the cartridge channel 30610. Similarly, referring to Figure 141, stapling instrument 30700 includes a cartridge channel 30710, a staple cartridge 30720 removably positionable in cartridge channel 30710, and a staple firing latch 30714 mounted to cartridge channel 30710 that prevents firing The member 30040 is advanced to complete the staple firing stroke unless the staple cartridge 30720 is seated in the cartridge channel 30710. It is worth noting, however, that placing the staple cartridge 30720 in the stapling instrument 30600 does not unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument 30600, and likewise, placing the staple cartridge 30620 in the stapling instrument 30700 does not unlock the staple firing of the stapling instrument 30700 system. Thus, despite the fact that staple cartridges 30620 and 30720 may be confusingly similar, stapling instruments 30600 and 30700 can be used simultaneously in the same operating room without the possibility of being used with the wrong staple cartridge.

142, in addition to the above, the staple cartridge 30620 includes a cartridge body 30622 that includes a proximal end 30626 that is angled such that the center of the cartridge body 30622 (ie, the portion closest to the longitudinal slot 30023) ) extends further proximally than the lateral sides of the cartridge body 30622. The staple cartridge 30620 also includes a slider 30630, which is similar in many respects to the slider 30030 and includes a proximal end 30636 having a profile that matches or at least matches the proximal end 30626 of the cartridge body 30622 Basically matching contours. Referring again to FIG. 140 , the firing latch 30614 is similar to the firing latch 30514 . Among other things, the firing latch 30614 includes a locking arm 30616 that releasably retains the firing member 30040 in its unfired position until the locking arm 30616 passes through the proximal end of the cartridge body 30622 and/or the slide 30630 The proximal end is displaced laterally to release the latching pin 30045 from the locking window defined in the locking arm 30616. If the staple cartridge 30620 is removed from the cartridge channel 30610, the locking arm 30616 resiliently returns to its locked position.

143, in addition to the above, the staple cartridge 30700 includes a cartridge body 30722 that includes a proximal end 30726 that is angled such that the lateral side of the cartridge body 30722 (ie, furthest from the longitudinal slot 30023) distal portion) extends farther proximally than the center of the cartridge body 30722. The staple cartridge 30720 also includes a slider 30730, which is similar in many respects to the slider 30030, and includes a proximal end 30736 having a profile matching or at least a proximal end 30726 of the cartridge body 30722 Basically matching contours. Referring again to FIG. 141 , the firing lockout 30714 is similar to the firing lockout 30514 . Among other things, the firing latch 30714 includes a locking arm 30716 that releasably retains the firing member 30040 in its unfired position until the locking arm 30716 passes through the proximal end of the cartridge body 30722 and/or the slide 30730 The proximal end is displaced laterally to release the latching pin 30045 from the locking window defined in the locking arm 30716. If the staple cartridge 30720 is removed from the cartridge channel 30710, the locking arm 30716 resiliently returns to its locked position.

Notably, in addition to the above, if the staple cartridge 30620 is to be positioned in the stapling instrument 30700, the proximal end of the staple cartridge 30620 will not displace, or at least sufficiently displace the locking arm 30716 of the firing latch 30714 position to disengage the firing latch 30714 from the firing member 30040. Furthermore, if the staple cartridge 30720 is to be positioned in the stapling instrument 30600, the proximal end of the staple cartridge 30720 will not displace the locking arm 30616 of the firing latch 30614, or at least displace sufficiently to allow the firing latch 30614 to interact with the stapling latch 30614. The firing member 30040 is disengaged. Accordingly, staple cartridges 30620 and 30720 each include unique keying features that unlock their corresponding or correct stapling instruments.

In various cases, in addition to the above, the cartridge body and/or slider or cartridge type of the staple cartridge may include one or more unique keying features that only Ability to unlock its corresponding stapling instrument. In some cases, a tray extending below the cartridge body may include a proximal feature or key configured to unlock the staple firing drive of its stapling instrument. Referring to Figure 144, a cartridge tray 30824, which is similar in many respects to tray 30024, includes a proximal protrusion or key 30826 configured to unlock the staple firing drive of the stapling instrument. The tabs 30826 are constructed of folded sheet metal to form, for example, a tubular structure. The tubular structure is reinforced by nested interconnects including tabs 30827 and slots 30828.

145 and 147 show surgical stapling instrument 30900, and FIG. 148 shows surgical stapling instrument 31000. Stapling instruments 30900 and 31000 are similar to stapling instrument 30500 in many respects. 145, a stapling instrument 30900 includes a cartridge channel 30910, a staple cartridge 30920 removably positionable in the cartridge channel 30910, and a staple firing latch 30914 mounted to the cartridge channel 30910 that prevents advancement of the firing member 30040 The staple firing stroke is completed unless the staple cartridge 30920 is seated in the cartridge channel 30910. Similarly, referring to Figure 148, stapling instrument 31000 includes a cartridge channel, a staple cartridge 31020 removably positionable in the cartridge channel, and a staple firing latch 31014 mounted to the cartridge channel that prevents advancement of the firing member 30040 The staple firing stroke is completed unless the staple cartridge 31020 is seated in the cartridge channel.

Notably, the staple firing latch 30914 includes only one locking arm 30916 that extends along the right side of the firing member 30040. Even so, one locking arm 30916 includes a locking window defined therein that is configured to capture and properly retain the latching pin 30045 of the firing member 30040 to retain the firing member 30040 in its unfired position, as shown in FIG. 147 shown until the staple cartridge 30920 is seated in the cartridge channel 30910, as shown in FIG. More specifically, the cartridge body 30922 of the staple cartridge 30920 includes a proximal tab or key 30926 extending from the right side of the cartridge body 30922 that engages and locks when the staple cartridge 30920 is seated in the cartridge channel 30910 arm 30916 and bend the locking arm 30916 laterally outward. Notably, the cartridge body 30922 does not include a protrusion or key 30926 extending from the left side of the cartridge body 30922.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the staple firing latch 31014 includes only one locking arm 31016 that extends along the right side edge of the firing member 30040. Even so, one locking arm 31016 includes a locking window defined therein that is configured to capture and properly retain the latching pin 30045 of the firing member 30040 to retain the firing member 30040 in its unfired position, as shown in FIG. 148 shown until the staple cartridge 31020 is seated in the cartridge channel of the stapling instrument 31000. More specifically, the cartridge body 31022 of the staple cartridge 31020 includes a proximal protrusion or key 31026 extending from the left side of the cartridge body 31022 that engages and locks when the staple cartridge 31020 is seated in the stapling instrument 31000 arm 31016 and bend the locking arm 31016 laterally outward. Notably, the cartridge body 31022 does not include a protrusion or key 31026 extending from the right side of the cartridge body 31022.

Due to the asymmetry of the cartridge bodies 30922 and 31022 and the corresponding asymmetry of the staple firing latches 30914 and 31014, the placement of the staple cartridge 31020 in the stapler instrument 30900 does not unlock the staple firing system of the stapler instrument 30900, and likewise, the staples The placement of the cartridge 30920 in the stapling instrument 31000 does not unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument 31000. Thus, despite the fact that staple cartridges 30920 and 31020 may be confusingly similar, stapling instruments 30900 and 31000 can be used simultaneously in the same operating room without the possibility of being used with the wrong staple cartridge. In some cases, the staple pattern produced by staple cartridge 30920 is different from the staple pattern produced by staple cartridge 30120, and thus, the anvil of stapling instrument 30900 will have a different arrangement of shaped pockets than the anvil of stapling instrument 31000. In such cases, the asymmetric key/fire latch arrangement disclosed herein may prevent a mismatch between the arrangement of the staple cavity and the arrangement of the staple forming pockets.

149 and 150, staple cartridge 31120 includes a cartridge body 31122 that includes parallel longitudinal rows of staple cavities, and staple cartridge 31220 includes a cartridge body 31222 that includes rows of staple cavities oriented in a transverse direction. Similar to the above, see Figure 149, the proximal end of the cartridge body 31122 includes a key 31126 that extends from the left side of the cartridge body 31122, but does not extend from the right or opposite side of the cartridge body 31122, see Figure 150, the cartridge The proximal end of the body 31222 includes a key 31226 that extends from the right side of the cartridge body 31222, but does not extend from the left side of the cartridge body 31222. The staple cartridge 31120 (FIG. 149) is used with a first stapling instrument having parallel longitudinal rows of anvil staple forming pockets and a left staple firing latch, such as the firing latch 31014 (FIG. 148). The staple cartridge 31220 (FIG. 150) is used with a second stapling instrument having a longitudinal row of transverse staple forming pockets and a right staple firing latch, such as the firing latch 30914 (FIG. 147). The staple cartridge 31220 does not unlock the first stapling instrument, and similarly, the staple cartridge 31120 does not unlock the second stapling instrument. As such, the key 31126 of the staple cartridge 31120 cannot unlock a stapling instrument having staple forming pockets extending in the transverse direction, and correspondingly, the key 31226 of the staple cartridge 31220 cannot unlock stapling having staple forming pockets extending in parallel longitudinal rows instrument.

Notably, staple cartridge 31120 and staple cartridge 31220 have substantially the same length and have substantially the same shape. Additionally, both staple cartridges 31120 and 31220 are configured to produce staple lines in patient tissue that are approximately 60 mm in length. However, both staple cartridges 31120 and 31220 are configured to be capable of producing staple lines that are, for example, approximately 30 mm or 45 mm in length. Furthermore, it is entirely possible for the cartridge body 31122 and the cartridge body 31222 to be the same color. In various cases, commercial suppliers may color-code the cartridge bodies of the staple cartridges they sell to indicate the size of the staples stored therein. For example, a cartridge body containing unformed staples having an unformed height of approximately 4 mm is, for example, green. Cartridge bodies containing unformed staples having an unformed height of approximately 2.5 mm may be, for example, white. Therefore, it is entirely possible for staple cartridges 31120 and 31220 to be the same color. Therefore, when a clinician wants to grasp one staple cartridge, he may grasp another staple cartridge and install that staple cartridge in the wrong stapling instrument. The improvements disclosed herein take into account such possibilities and lock out the stapling instrument under such circumstances.

Surgical instrument 30800 is shown in FIGS. 151-155 . 153 and 154, the surgical instrument 30800 includes a cartridge channel 30810, a staple cartridge 30820 removably positioned in the cartridge channel 30810, a firing member 30040, and a latch 30814 mounted to the cartridge channel 30810. The latch 30814 includes a leaf spring 30816 including a proximal end anchored in a hole defined in the cartridge channel 30810 and a distal end movable relative to the fixed proximal end. 153 and 155, the latch 30814 also includes a latch box 30815 configured to capture one of the latch pins 30045 extending from the cut portion 30042 of the firing member 30040, and when the staple cartridge 30820 is not The firing member 30040 is held in the unfired position when seated in the cartridge channel 30810. The locking box 30815 includes a distal wall configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member 30040, a proximal wall configured to prevent proximal retraction of the firing member 30040, and proximal and distal walls connecting the locking box 30815 bottom wall of the wall. However, the top of the latch box 30815 is open, but may be closed.

The staple cartridge 30820 includes a cartridge body 30822, a slider, and a disk 30824 that is attached to the cartridge body 30822 and extends below the cartridge body. In addition to the above, the disc 30824 includes a proximal protrusion 30826 configured to engage the leaf spring 30816 of the latch 30814 when the staple cartridge 30820 is seated in the cartridge channel 30810, as shown in FIGS. 152 and 154 Show. When the protrusion 30826 contacts the leaf spring 30816, the leaf spring 30816 flexes laterally so that the latch pin 30045 is no longer captured in the latch box 30815 of the latch 30814. At this point, the firing member 30040 has been unlocked and the firing member 30040 can be advanced distally to perform the staple firing stroke. 154, the distal end or free end of the leaf spring 30816 extends into a window 30819 defined in the cartridge channel 30810. The window 30819 provides clearance for the leaf spring 30816 as the leaf spring 30816 is flexed by the staple cartridge 30820. Additionally, the bottom side wall of the window 30819 supports the distal end of the leaf spring 30816 so that the distal end is at least simply supported. In any event, latch 30814 provides a missing cartridge latch and an incorrect cartridge latch for staple cartridges that do not have an appropriate key for unlocking stapling instrument 30800, such as staple cartridge 30020.

As described above, when the staple cartridge 30820 is seated in the cartridge channel 30810 of the stapling instrument 30800, the latch 30814 moves from the locked position (FIGS. 152 and 153) to the unlocked position (FIG. 154). This deflection is visible in Figure 155, which shows the latch 30814 in its locked position (shown in solid lines) and its unlocked position (shown in phantom lines). In the event that an incorrect or incompatible staple cartridge (ie, one that does not have a suitable key) is seated in the cartridge channel 30810, the leaf spring 30816 will not deflect, or at least deflect properly, to unlock the firing member 30040. Notably, the latch 30814 also includes a tab 30817 extending from the leaf spring 30816 such that when the latch 30814 is deflected, the tab 30817 moves laterally with the leaf spring 30816. When the latch 30814 is in its locked position, as shown in FIG. 153, the tabs 30817 prevent movement of the anvil of the surgical instrument 30800 (ie, the anvil 30050) to the closed or fully clamped position, as described in more detail below.

Anvil 30050 is rotatably coupled to cartridge channel 30810 about a pivot pin 30051 mounted in a hole defined in cartridge channel 30810. When the anvil 30050 is rotated toward the cartridge channel 30810 by the closure system of the surgical instrument 30800 and the staple cartridge 30820 is not seated in the cartridge channel 30810, the bottom surface 30057 of the anvil 30050 contacts the tabs 30817 and blocks movement of the anvil 30050 until it closes or fully clamped position. However, when the staple cartridge 30820 is seated in the cartridge channel 30810, the tabs 30817 are displaced laterally so that when the anvil 30050 is closed, the anvil 30050 does not contact the tabs 30817, and the anvil 30050 can be moved until it is closed or fully Clamping position. Accordingly, the latch 30814 also includes an anvil closure latch because the latch 30814 prevents the anvil 30050 from closing when the staple cartridge 30820 is not seated in the cartridge channel 30810. In such cases, the clinician will quickly realize that an incorrect staple cartridge is positioned in the cartridge channel 30810 and/or realize that the staple cartridge is completely missing because they will not be able to close the anvil 30050. Because the anvil 30050 cannot close on the tissue, the staple firing stroke of the stapling instrument 30800 will also be prevented under such circumstances. In an alternative embodiment in which the staple cartridge jaws can be rotated instead of the anvil, such a latch can be used to prevent the staple cartridge from being properly positioned in the staple cartridge jaws or if the staple cartridge is completely missing from the cartridge jaws Cartridge jaws rotate to closed or fully clamped position.

As discussed above, the latch 30814 is configured to resist the closure of the anvil 30050. To this end, in addition to the above, the proximal end of the latch 30814 is fixedly supported in the cartridge channel 30810 and the distal end of the latch 30814 is simply supported by the side walls of the window 30819. This is the case when the latch 30814 is in both its locked (FIG. 153) and unlocked (FIG. 154) configurations. Thus, the latch 30814 can act as a beam supported at both ends and is well suited to withstand the clamping loads applied by the anvil 30050. Similarly, tabs 30817 extending from latch 30814 are also supported by cartridge channel 30810. More specifically, tabs 30817 are slidably supported in slots 30818 defined in cartridge channel 30810 when latch 30814 is in both its locked ( FIG. 153 ) and unlocked ( FIG. 154 ) configurations. Thus, the latches 30814 can act as beams supported at both ends and in the middle and are well suited to withstand the clamping loads applied by the anvil 30050. Even so, any suitable support arrangement can be used.

As described above, the latch 30814 is configured to prevent movement of the anvil 30050 of the stapling instrument 30800 to the closed or fully clamped position when the staple cartridge 30820 is not seated in the cartridge channel 30810. Even so, the latch 30814 is configured to prevent the anvil 30050 from closing substantially completely when the staple cartridge 30820 is not seated in the cartridge channel 30810. In such cases, the anvil 30050 can move slightly toward the cartridge channel 30810; however, when the anvil 30050 contacts the tabs 30817 of the latch 30814, the anvil 30050 can open significantly. In various alternative embodiments, movement of the anvil 30050 is prevented until the staple cartridge 30820 is seated in the cartridge channel 30810. In either case, when the anvil 30050 is latched, the stapling instrument 30800 cannot be inserted into the patient through the trocar. More specifically, the trocar includes an internal passage or cannula sized and configured to tightly receive a surgical instrument therein, and when the anvil 30050 is latched as described above, the anvil. The distance between 30050 and cartridge channel 30810 is too great for stapling instrument 30800 to fit through this internal passage. Thus, in such situations, the clinician using the stapling instrument 30800 will be aware that an incorrect staple cartridge is positioned in the stapling instrument 30800 before inserting the stapling instrument 30800 into the patient.

A staple cartridge 31520 is shown in Figure 155A. The staple cartridge 31520 includes a cartridge body 31522 and a disk 31524 attached to the cartridge body 31522. The tray 31524 includes locking arms 31521 that engage lateral channels defined in the cartridge body 31522 that retain the tray 31524 to the cartridge body 31522. Disc 31524 is constructed of stamped metal, such as stainless steel. The disc 31524 includes two lateral sides, one on each side of the longitudinal slot 30023. Each lateral side of the disk 31524 extends along a lateral side of the cartridge body 31522 and under a portion of the cartridge body 31522 . Each lateral side of the disc 31524 also includes a proximal end 31527 that wraps over the proximal end of the cartridge body 31522. The proximal end 31527 extends orthogonally, or at least substantially orthogonally, to the lateral side of the disc 31524. Each proximal end 31527 includes a tab that is folded to form a proximally extending key 31526. Similar to the above, the key 31526 is configured to unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument when the staple cartridge 31520 is seated in the stapling instrument.

In addition to the above, each key 31526 includes a rounded proximal end formed by folding the tabs outwards so that the ends of the tabs come back into contact with the proximal end 31527. Thus, the key 31526 is robust and prevents or at least substantially reduces deflection of the key 31526. In this way, when the staple cartridge 31520 is seated in the stapling instrument, the key 31526 will reliably deflect the firing system lock to unlock the firing system. Each proximal end 31527 also includes one or more retention teeth 31529 that extend into slots 31528 defined in the proximal end 31527 . The slot 31528 facilitates folding of the proximal end 31527 and also prevents or at least limits movement and/or deflection within the key 31526. Teeth 31529 snap into proximal end 31527 and retain key 31526 in its collapsed configuration.

The staple cartridge 31620 is shown in Figure 155B. The staple cartridge 31620 includes a cartridge body 31522 and a disk 31624 attached to the cartridge body 31522. The tray 31624 includes locking arms 31621 that engage lateral channels defined in the cartridge body 31522 that retain the tray 31624 to the cartridge body 31522. The disc 31624 is constructed of stamped metal, such as stainless steel. The disc 31624 includes two lateral sides, one on each side of the longitudinal slot 30023. Each lateral side of the disk 31624 extends along a lateral side of the cartridge body 31522 and under a portion of the cartridge body 31522. Each lateral side of the disc 31624 also includes a proximal end that wraps down over the proximal end of the cartridge body 31522. The proximal end extends orthogonally, or at least substantially orthogonally, to the lateral side of the disc 31624. Each proximal end includes a tab that is folded to form a proximally extending key 31626. Similar to the above, the key 31626 is configured to unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument when the staple cartridge 31620 is seated in the stapling instrument.

In addition to the above, each key 31626 includes a laterally facing U-shaped channel. More specifically, each key 31626 includes an inner base 31627 , a laterally extending top side 31628 extending from the inner base 31627 , and a laterally extending bottom side 31629 extending from an opposite side of the inner base 31627 . The U-shaped configuration of the key 31626 prevents the key 31626 from buckling under longitudinal loading and/or deflecting under lateral direction torque. Notably, the keys 31626 are folded by the tabs extending from the disc 31624 in such a manner as to form a gap 31625 below the keys 31626. The gap 31625 is sized and configured to allow the locking pin of the firing member to pass under the key 31626 during the staple firing stroke of the firing member.

The staple cartridge 31720 is shown in Figure 155C. The staple cartridge 31720 includes a cartridge body 31522 and a disk 31724 attached to the cartridge body 31522. The tray 31724 includes locking arms 31721 and 31721 ′ that engage lateral channels defined in the cartridge body 31522 that retain the tray 31724 to the cartridge body 31522 . Disc 31724 is constructed of stamped metal, such as stainless steel. The disc 31724 includes two lateral sides, one on each side of the longitudinal slot 30023. Each lateral side of the disk 31724 extends along a lateral side of the cartridge body 31522 and under a portion of the cartridge body 31522. One lateral side of the disc 31724 also includes a proximal end 31727 that wraps down over the proximal end of the cartridge body 31522. The proximal end 31727 extends orthogonally, or at least substantially orthogonally, to the lateral side of the disc 31724. The proximal end 31727 includes a tab that is folded to form a proximally extending key 31726. Similar to the above, the key 31726 is configured to unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument when the staple cartridge 31720 is seated in the stapling instrument.

In addition to the above, the lateral side of the disc 31724 includes an arcuate or circular cutout, and the proximal end 31727 includes an arcuate or circular protrusion 31723 that curves around the side of the cartridge body 31522 into a circular cutout. The protrusions 31723 are tightly received in the cutouts such that the proximal end 31727 of the disc 31724 is greatly stiffened or strengthened by this arrangement. The key 31726 includes an L-shaped tab that bends proximally from the disc 31724. The key 31726 includes a shoulder 31728 that curves upwardly from the proximal end 31727 to form the L-shaped configuration. The shoulder 31728 includes at least one notch or strain relief 31729 configured to facilitate flexing of the key 31726. The L-shaped configuration of the key 31726 prevents the key 31726 from buckling under longitudinal loading and/or deflecting under lateral direction torque. Notably, the key 31726 is folded by the tabs extending from the disc 31724 in such a way as to form a gap 31725 below the key 31726. The gap 31725 is sized and configured to allow the locking pin of the firing member to pass under the key 31726 during the staple firing stroke of the firing member.

The staple cartridge 31920 is shown in Figure 155E. The staple cartridge 31920 includes a cartridge body 31522 and a disk 31924 attached to the cartridge body 31522. The tray 31924 includes locking arms 31921 that engage lateral channels defined in the cartridge body 31522 that retain the tray 31924 to the cartridge body 31522. Disc 31924 is constructed of stamped metal, such as stainless steel. The disc 31924 includes two lateral sides, one on each side of the longitudinal slot 30023. Each lateral side of the tray 31924 extends along a lateral side of the cartridge body 31522 and under a portion of the cartridge body 31522. One lateral side of the disc 31924 also includes a proximal end 31927 that wraps over the proximal end of the cartridge body 31522. The proximal end 31927 extends orthogonally, or at least substantially orthogonally, to the lateral side of the disk 31924. The proximal end 31927 includes a tab that is folded to form a proximally extending key 31926. Similar to the above, the key 31926 is configured to unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument when the staple cartridge 31920 is seated in the stapling instrument.

In addition to the above, the key 31926 includes an L-shaped tab that curves proximally from the disc 31924. The key 31926 includes a shoulder 31928 that curves upwardly from the proximal end 31927 to form the L-shaped configuration. The L-shaped configuration of the key 31926 prevents the key 31926 from buckling under longitudinal loading and/or deflecting under lateral direction torque. In addition, the free edge of shoulder 31928 is welded, welded and/or brazed to proximal end 31927 to strengthen key 31926. Even so, any suitable number of welds 31929 may be used to secure or strengthen the keys 31926. Notably, the keys 31926 are folded by the tabs extending from the disc 31924 in such a way as to form a gap 31925 below the keys 31926. The gap 31925 is sized and configured to allow the locking pin of the firing member to pass under the key 31926 during the staple firing stroke of the firing member.

The staple cartridge 31820 is shown in Figure 155D. The staple cartridge 31820 includes a cartridge body 31522 and a disk 31824 attached to the cartridge body 31522. The tray 31824 includes locking arms 31821 that engage with lateral channels defined in the cartridge body 31522 that retain the tray 31824 to the cartridge body 31522. The disc 31824 is constructed of stamped metal, such as stainless steel. The disc 31824 includes two lateral sides, one on each side of the longitudinal slot 30023. Each lateral side of the disc 31824 extends along a lateral side of the cartridge body 31522 and under a portion of the cartridge body 31522. One lateral side of the disc 31824 also includes a proximal end 31827 that wraps over the proximal end of the cartridge body 31522. The proximal end 31827 extends orthogonally, or at least substantially orthogonally, to the lateral side of the disc 31824. The proximal end 31827 includes a tab that is folded to form a proximally extending key 31826. Similar to the above, the key 31826 is configured to unlock the staple firing system of the stapling instrument when the staple cartridge 31820 is seated in the stapling instrument.

In addition to the above, the key 31826 includes a rounded proximal end formed by folding the tabs outward so that the ends of the tabs come back into contact with the proximal end 31827. Thus, the key 31826 is robust and prevents or at least substantially reduces deflection of the key 31826. In this way, when the staple cartridge 31820 is seated in the stapling instrument, the key 31826 will reliably deflect the firing system lock to unlock the firing system. The proximal end 31827 also includes one or more retention teeth 31829 that extend into slots 31828 defined in the proximal end 31827. Slot 31828 facilitates folding of proximal end 31827 and also prevents or at least limits movement and/or deflection within key 31826. Teeth 31829 snap into proximal end 31827 and retain key 31826 in its collapsed configuration. Notably, the keys 31826 are folded by the tabs extending from the disc 31824 in such a way as to form a gap 31825 below the keys 31826. The gap 31825 is sized and configured to allow the locking pin of the firing member to pass under the key 31826 during the staple firing stroke of the firing member.

Many of the latches disclosed herein fail when a compatible or correct staple cartridge is placed in the stapling instrument. When deployed, the staple cartridge is locked in place within the stapling instrument. In such cases, there is little, if any, relative movement between the staple cartridge and the stapling instrument until the staple cartridge is unloaded from the stapling instrument.

In various cases, the surgical stapling assembly includes a shaft and an end effector extending distally from the shaft, the end effector including a first jaw and a second jaw rotatable relative to the first jaw. The surgical stapling assembly may include a blocking member configured to prevent accidental firing of the surgical stapling assembly and/or clamping of the surgical stapling assembly until the blocking key unlocks the blocking member. The latching key may be, for example, part of a staple cartridge configured to be mountable in one of the first jaw and the second jaw. In particular, the latch key may be part of the cartridge's slider such that the cartridge may unlock the latch member when the slider is in its unfired position, thereby indicating that the cartridge is not in use when installed within the surgical stapling assembly do. In at least one instance, further action may be required to unlock the latch with the latch key. For example, an end effector may be required to achieve a fully clamped configuration before the latch key can unlock the latch member. An example of a latch can be found in US Patent Application Publication 2016/0249921 entitled "SURGICAL APPARATUS WITH CONDUCTOR STRAIN RELIEF," now US Patent 10,085,749, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

In at least one instance, a surgical stapling assembly, such as the surgical stapling assembly described above, can be used with a surgical robot. The surgical stapling assembly can be configured to be attachable to and operated by a robotic arm of the robotic system. These robotic systems allow surgeons to be outside the sterile field where the patient is. In at least one instance, a technician and/or another surgeon, for example, may be located within the boundaries of the sterile field to monitor the interface between the tool and the patient. The technician and/or surgeon may attach and detach instruments to and from the robotic arm during surgery. In some cases, it may be advantageous to be able to actively bypass a locking member of a surgical stapling assembly. Providing this capability would enable a surgeon or technician to manually deactivate the latching device of the staple cartridge if the latching device cannot automatically deactivate for any reason. Providing this capability also enables the surgeon to test the operability of the blocking member to ensure that the blocking member is functional prior to use of the surgical stapling assembly. In the event that the surgeon wants to manually manipulate the blocking member to fire the staple cartridge, the surgeon or clinician may know that the installed staple cartridge is the correct unfired cartridge and may want to fire the staple cartridge regardless of the fact that the blocking member The fact that it has not expired. In at least one instance, the clinician may want to remove the blocking member from the firing sequence and prevent it from being part of the firing stroke. Furthermore, providing direct access to the latching member within the end effector itself for manual unlocking may provide the advantage of a system with or without automatic disabling of the latching member. The blocking member directly into the end effector can eliminate additional components that might otherwise be present in a system that utilizes an unlocking mechanism located further upstream of the blocking member to unlock the blocking member. For example, the use of an unlocking mechanism located further upstream of the locking member within the shaft of the surgical instrument may introduce additional components that may jam or fail during application of the unlocking actuation.

156-160 illustrate a surgical stapling assembly 41000 configured to grip, staple, and cut patient tissue. Surgical stapling assembly 41000 is configured to be attachable to, detachable from, and operated by a surgical robot and/or surgical instrument handle. Surgical stapling assembly 41000 includes shaft 41100 , first jaw 41200 pivotably supported within shaft 41100 , and second jaw 41300 attached to shaft 41100 . The first jaw 41200 is movable between a release configuration and a clamping configuration to clamp and release tissue positioned between the first jaw 41200 and the second jaw 41300. Surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes staple cartridge 41230 that includes a plurality of staples removably stored therein. The staple cartridge 41230 is configured to be installed into the first jaw 41200 and replaced with another staple cartridge. Surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes a firing member 41400 extending through a shaft 41100 configured to move the first jaw 41200 relative to the second jaw 41300 between a released configuration and a clamped configuration, from The staple cartridge 41230 deploys the staples and cuts the tissue with the knife or blade 41422 during the firing stroke. The firing member 41400 is configured to be actuated by the surgical robot and/or the drive system of the surgical instrument handle. Embodiments are contemplated in which the firing member 41400 is driven with a rotary drive shaft. Embodiments are also contemplated in which the jaws configured to receive the staple cartridge are secured to the shaft and the jaws containing the anvil are movable between a clamped configuration and a release configuration.

The surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes a latch 41500 ( FIG. 160 ) configured to prevent distal movement of the firing member 41400 beyond a certain position unless the correct unused staple cartridge is installed within the first jaw 41200 and The first jaw 41200 is in a fully clamped configuration. In at least one instance, regardless of the condition of the latch 41500, the firing member 41400 is allowed to move a first distance between a home position and a specified position to allow gripping and loosening of tissue, as discussed in more detail below. The latch 41500 is biased toward a locked configuration wherein the firing member 41400 is prevented from moving distally beyond a certain position. The latch 41500 is movable to an unlocked configuration in which the firing member 41400 is allowed to move distally beyond a certain position to deploy staples from the staple cartridge 41230. As discussed in more detail below, the surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes a direct access port defined therein that is configured to allow a clinician to manually or manually unlock the latch 41500, ie, move the latch 41500 to Unlock configuration.

The first jaw 41200 includes a channel 41210 configured to receive a staple cartridge 41230 in the first jaw. The staple cartridge 41230 is configured to fit within the channel 41210 and to be easily replaced with another staple cartridge. The staple cartridge 41230 also includes a slider 41235 movable between an unfired position and a fired position to remove the staple cartridge from the staple cartridge when the slider 41235 is pushed distally through the cartridge body 41232 of the staple cartridge 41230 by the firing member 41400 41230 shoots nails. The second jaw 41300 includes an anvil 41320 that includes a staple forming surface 41310 configured to form staples ejected from the staple cartridge 41230.

The first jaw 41200 is movable relative to the second jaw 41300 by the firing member 41400 between the release configuration and the clamped configuration. Embodiments in which the second jaw 41300 is movable relative to the first jaw 41200 are contemplated. To grip tissue, the firing member 41400 is moved distally a first distance from the home position to cam the first jaw 41200 to a gripping configuration. 159, the firing member 41400 includes an anvil cam action portion 41423 configured to engage the ramp 41332 of the anvil channel 41330 defined within the second jaw 41300 and a bottom surface configured to engage the first jaw 41200 Channel cam action portion 41424 of ramp 41222 of 41220. Anvil cam action portion 41423 and channel cam action portion 41424 extend laterally from the distal portion 41420 of the firing member 41400 and are configured to control the first jaw 41200 as the distal portion 41420 of the firing member moves through its firing stroke Distance from the second jaw 41300. During the first distance described above, the anvil cam action portion 41423 and the channel cam action portion 41424 engage the first jaw 41200 and the second jaw 41300 and cam the first jaw 41200 to the clamping configuration. Further distal movement of the distal portion 41420 of the firing member 41400 holds the first and second jaws 41200 and 41300 relative to each other during the firing stroke and pushes the slider 41235 distally to fire the staples stored in the staple cartridge 41230 .

Surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes a latch 41500 configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member beyond the first distance unless the correct unused staple cartridge is installed in the first jaw 41200 and the first jaw 41200 fully clamped. The latch 41500 includes a latch member 41510 pivotally supported within the shaft 41100 and movable between an unlocked configuration (FIG. 157) and a locked configuration (FIG. 158), wherein the unlocked configuration allows the firing member The 41400 moves beyond the first distance to complete the firing stroke, and the locked configuration prevents the firing member 41400 from moving beyond the first distance. The latching member 41510 is biased into a locked configuration by a spring 41520. When the first jaw 41200 is moved to the gripping configuration, the correct unused staple cartridge installed in the channel 41210 can overcome the bias provided by the spring 41520.

To unlock the latch 41500, the first jaw 41200 must be moved to its gripping configuration to assume the slide 41235, thereby engaging and unlocking the latch member 41510. Slider 41235 cannot disable latch 41500 when first jaw 41200 is not in its gripping configuration. An embodiment is envisaged in which the cartridge jaws cannot pivot but the anvil jaws can pivot. In such embodiments, only inserting the staple cartridge presents the slider 41235 to disable the latch 41500. In such embodiments, the latch 41500 may fail before any clamping action is applied to the anvil jaws.

In order to unlock the latch 41500, the correct unused staple cartridge must be installed in the first jaw 41200 of the surgical stapling assembly 41000, as described above. The staple cartridge 41230 includes a slider 41235 that includes a latch key 41237 extending proximally from the slider. The latch key 41237 is configured to move the latch member 41510 to the unlocked configuration when the slider 41235 is in the unfired position and the first jaw 41200 is moved to the clamped configuration. To unlock the latch, the latch key 41237 pivots the latch member 41510 to unlock by moving the latch flange or leg 41511 of the latch member 41510 away from the latch notch 41412 in the firing shaft or lever 41410 defined in the firing member 41400 configuration, the latching notch would otherwise prevent distal movement of the firing member 41400 beyond the initial distance for gripping when the first jaw 41200 is moved to the gripping configuration. The blocking member 41510 includes a pair of arms 41512 extending distally from the blocking flange 41511 that are configured to span the firing member 41400 as the firing member 41400 moves through its firing stroke.

157 shows the latch key 41237 engaged with the distal end 41516 of the arm 41512 on the distal end 41515 of the latch member 41510. As shown in FIG. 157 , the latching member 41510 has been pivoted to the unlocked configuration relative to the shaft 41100 about the tabs 41513 ( FIG. 160 ) of the latching member 41510 . When the blocking member 41510 is in the unlocked configuration, the blocking notch 41412 of the firing shaft 41410 will be offset from the blocking flange 41511 of the blocking member 41510, allowing the firing member 41400 to move distally through the staple cartridge 41230. Referring to Figure 158, if the latch key 41237 is not present when clamping the first jaw 41200 to the clamping configuration, the latch member 41510 abuts the tab 41514 (Figure 160) of the latch member 41510 by means of the spring 41520 (Figure 159) Pushing remains biased to the locked configuration, wherein the latching flange 41511 engages the notch 41412 of the firing shaft 41410 to block distal movement of the firing member 41400 beyond the initial distance for gripping.

As described above, surgical stapling assembly 41000 also includes a direct access port 41425 defined therein that is configured to allow a clinician to manually move blocking member 41510 to an unlocked configuration. Aperture 41425 may be positioned in any suitable component such that tool 41590 may enter latch member 41510 through aperture 41425 to move latch member 41510 to an unlocked configuration. A bore 41425 is defined in the channel cam action portion 41424 of the distal portion 41420 of the firing member 41400. Aperture 41425 may include, for example, an entry slit defined in channel cam action portion 41424. In at least one instance, bore 41425 is defined in shaft 41100 and/or components thereof. Nonetheless, the latching member 41510 is directly accessible through the aperture 41425. Tool 41590 includes hook portion 41591 configured to be inserted through hole 41425 and opening 41517 defined between arms 41512 of latching member 41510 for hooking or latching on the upper side of flange 41511 for pulling The flange 41511, and thus against the spring bias that urges the latch member 41510 into the locked configuration, pivots the latch member 41510 to the unlocked configuration. The holes 41425 may be configured such that tools such as screwdrivers that would normally be avoided do not fit within the apertures or external access holes 41425. Portions of the latching member 41510 are shown in phantom in the unlocked configuration, where the tool 41590 has positioned the latching member 41510 into the unlocked configuration. Arm 41512' and flange 41511' are the dashed version of arm 41512 and flange 41511 of latch member 41510 shown in the unlocked configuration.

Once the blocking member 41510 is manually or manually deactivated to move the blocking member 41500 to the unlocked configuration, the firing member 41400 is allowed to move distally beyond the unfired position and into the staple cartridge 41230. The unfired position is defined as the position after clamping but before firing. Once the firing member 41400 is advanced distally beyond its unfired position, the tool 41590 can be disengaged from the blocking member 41510 and removed from the aperture 41425 to allow the blocking member 41500 to resume normal operation. For example, when the firing member 41400 returns to the unfired position after the staple cartridge has been at least partially fired, the latching member 41510 will pivot to the locked configuration. During the firing stroke, the blocking member 41510 is accessible with the tool 41590 through the secondary access hole 41160 defined between the proximal end of the channel 41210 and the distal end of the shaft 41100. Even so, the latching member 41510 will remain disabled during the staple firing stroke. In at least one instance, a direct access hole is positioned within the shaft 41100, for example, and can provide access to the blocking member 41510 during the firing stroke of the firing member 41400. In at least one instance, the secondary access aperture 41160 includes a primary latch access aperture.

The latch 41500 may be positioned in any suitable location. In at least one instance, the latch 41500 can be positioned proximal of the distal portion 41420 of the firing member 41400 when the firing member 41400 is in its proximal-most position, such as that shown in FIG. 159 . In this case, the access aperture may be defined in the shaft housing or frame of the surgical stapling assembly 41000. In at least one instance, an access hole is defined in channel 41210.

In at least one instance, a tool 41590 can be inserted through the direct access hole 41425 to unlock the latch 41500 prior to insertion of the staple cartridge 41230 into the channel 41210. Moving the latch 41500 to its unlocked configuration prior to insertion of the staple cartridge may aid in cartridge installation by preventing the latch 41500 from engaging the staple cartridge during installation. Some latches disable incorrect staple cartridges by bumping the cartridge's slider from its unfired, fireable position to its unfired, non-fireable position, which can result in immediate depletion of the staple cartridge. Furthermore, such latches may strike the slides of the correct staple cartridge during installation of the correct staple cartridge. Unlocking the latch 41500 prior to installation of the staple cartridge ensures that the correct staple cartridge is not accidentally deactivated during installation.

161 and 162 illustrate a surgical stapling assembly 42000 for gripping, stapling, and cutting patient tissue. Surgical stapling assembly 42000 is similar in many respects to other stapling assemblies described herein. Surgical stapling assembly 42000 includes firing assembly 42100 and a cartridge channel 42200 configured to receive a staple cartridge therein. The firing assembly 42100 is configured to push the correct unused cartridge sled mounted within the cartridge channel 42200 to deploy the staples of the cartridge and cut the stapled tissue. The surgical stapling assembly 42000 also includes a latch 42300 configured to prevent the firing assembly 42100 from being advanced through an incorrect staple cartridge. The latch 42300 includes a spring 42310 that biases the latch 42300 toward the locked configuration. The latch 42300 is configured to be pushed proximally by the correct unused staple cartridge to unlock the firing assembly 42100. Notably, the latch 42300 is configured such that the latch 42300 does not inadvertently push the correct staple cartridge slide into a position that would cause a latched condition of the firing assembly 42100. The latch 42300 may employ any suitable latching method. The firing assembly 42100 is similar to other firing assemblies described herein.

Surgical stapling assembly 42000 also includes a direct access cut or hole 42210 defined in the bottom of cartridge channel 42200 at the proximal end of longitudinal slot 42230 defined in cartridge channel 42200. The firing assembly 42100 can move through the slot 42230 of the cartridge channel 42200 during the staple firing stroke. Direct access incision 42210 allows tools to be inserted into surgical stapling assembly 42000 for direct access to latch 42300. The tool can be inserted through the direct access cutout 42210 to move the latch 42300 to the unlocked configuration (FIG. 162). Unlocking the latch 42300 in this manner may be referred to as manually unlocking the latch 42300, since an under-used staple cartridge has not automatically unlocked the latch 42300 for any reason. Direct access cutout 42210 includes a proximal end 42211 and a distal end 42213 that includes a wider cutout portion than proximal end 42211. The wider cutout portion of the distal end 42213 can assist in proper insertion of the tool into the channel 42200. For example, the tool may include a locking engagement portion that fits in the distal end 42213 instead of the proximal end 42211, thereby eliminating the possibility of misinsertion of the tool into the proximal end 42211. In addition, the latch 42300 and its position relative to other components of the surgical stapling assembly 42000 are also directly visible through the direct access incision 42210. Nonetheless, a tool can be inserted through the cutout 42210 to pull and/or push the latch 42300 proximally, thereby overcoming the spring bias and moving the latch 42300 to the unlocked configuration. The tool can also be removed and disengaged from the latch 42300 so that the latch 42300 can resume normal operation. Additionally, providing the ability to manually move the latch 42300 may allow the clinician to move the latch 42300 away from its locked position prior to installing the staple cartridge into the cartridge channel 42200 to prevent premature movement of the latch 42300 from being installed into the cartridge channel 42200 Slider in the staple cartridge.

Figures 163 and 164 illustrate a surgical stapling assembly 43000 that includes a firing assembly 43100, a frame 43400 supporting the firing assembly 43100 therein, a cartridge channel 43300 pivotably attached to the frame 43400, and configured to enable Latch key mechanism 43500 to deactivate the latch of surgical stapling assembly 43000. Surgical stapling assembly 43000 may include any suitable latch; however, the following describes a dive knife ( diving knife) closure.

The firing assembly 43100 includes a firing shaft 43110 and a firing member 43120 attached to the distal end of the firing shaft 43110. Although a linear firing shaft is shown, the firing assembly 43100 may be configured to have a rotational drive shaft. The firing shaft 43110 is configured to be actuated by, for example, a surgical instrument handle and/or a firing driver of a surgical robot. Any suitable drive mechanism may be used. The firing member 43120 includes an anvil cam action pin 43122 and a channel cam action pin 43123 extending laterally therefrom. The pins 43122, 43123 are configured to control the clamping pressure captured on tissue within the surgical stapling assembly 43000 during the firing stroke. The firing member 43120 also includes a cutting edge 43121 configured to cut the clamped tissue. The firing member 43120 also includes a flange or distal nose 43124 configured to engage and/or rest on top of the sled of the correct unfired cartridge such that the firing member 43120 does not fall into the groove of the latch.

The firing assembly 43100 also includes an extension 43111 configured to be biased downward toward the channel 43300 by a spring member mounted within the frame 43400. As discussed in more detail below, the downward bias of the extension 43111 urges the firing assembly 43100 toward its latched state. This downward bias is overcome when there is an unexhausted correct staple cartridge installed in the cartridge channel 43300.

The latch key mechanism 43500 includes a spring 43530 , a wedge 43520 slidably supported within the frame 43400 , and a lifter spring 43510 mounted to the proximal end 43511 of the frame 43400 . The wedge 43520 includes a ramp 43521 on which the distal end 43512 of the lifter spring 43510 rests. When the staple cartridge is inserted into the cartridge channel 43300, the staple cartridge 43200 pushes the wedge 43520 proximally. Proximal movement of wedge 43520 causes lifter spring 43510 to lift firing member 43120 to disable the first stage of the latch. The lifter spring 43510 includes a notch 43513 defined on the distal end 43512 that is configured to engage a lift extending laterally from the firing member 43120 when the lifter spring 43510 is lifted by the wedge 43520 of the staple cartridge 43200 Device pin 43125.

Once the first stage of the lockout has been overcome, the firing assembly 43100 is advanced distally to assess the second stage of the lockout. This second phase of the latch fails when the slider of the staple cartridge 43200 is in its proximal unfired position. Similar to the above, when the firing shaft 43110 is advanced distally, the firing shaft 43110 can be lifted onto the slide by the staple cartridge 43200.

In order for the nose 43124 of the firing member 43120 to land on the unfired slide of the staple cartridge 43200 to disable the second stage of the latch and prevent the firing member 43120 from falling into the latch groove, a cartridge body key 43211 is provided on the cartridge body 43210 on the proximal end of 43201. Referring now to FIG. 164, when the staple cartridge 43200 is installed in the cartridge channel 43300, the cartridge body key 43211 pushes the wedge 43520 proximally and overcomes the spring bias provided by the spring 43530. As wedge 43520 is pushed proximally, wedge 43520 lifts lifter spring 43510. At this point, the notch 43513 can catch the lifter pin 43125 and lift the firing assembly 43100. Raising the firing assembly 43100 in this manner may be referred to as disabling the first stage of the latch. Notably, a staple cartridge that does not have the correct cartridge latch key may be able to fit in the cartridge channel 43300, but will not be able to raise the firing assembly 43100. Once the staple cartridge 43200 is installed in the cartridge channel 43300 and the firing assembly 43100 is raised, the firing assembly 43100 can be advanced distally so that the notches 43513 can hold the firing assembly 43100 at the correct height and distance so that the nose Portion 43124 can land on an unfired sled in staple cartridge 43200, avoiding the latch groove. Landing the nose 43124 on the unfired slide may be referred to as disabling the second stage of the latch. If the slider in the staple cartridge 43200 is not in its unfired position, the firing assembly 43100 will fall into the latch groove and cannot be advanced distally beyond its locked configuration. In at least one instance, the cartridge body key 43211 extends proximally from the cartridge body tray 43220 of the staple cartridge 43200.

165 shows a first staple cartridge 43610 that includes a proximal end 43611 and a latch key 43613 extending from the proximal end 43611. The latch key 43613 includes a first profile. 165 shows a second staple cartridge 43620 that includes a proximal end 43621 and a latch key 43623 extending from the proximal end 43621. The latch key 43623 includes a second profile that is different from the first profile of the latch key 43613 . The first staple cartridge 43610 is configured to unlock only the stapling instruments that are compatible with it, and the second staple cartridge 43620 is configured to unlock only the stapling instruments that are compatible with it.

Referring back to the latching key mechanism 43500 in Figures 163 and 164, a cartridge using different key profiles can be used to ensure that the firing member is raised in the proper position and at the proper height. Referring to Figure 165, raising the firing member at different locations results in different timing of raising the firing member. This can be used to ensure that an incorrect cartridge cannot unlock an incompatible instrument. 166 and 167 contain graphs showing different lift timings 43610', 43620' and displacements 43610", 43620" provided by bins 43610, 43620. The staple cartridge 43610 is configured to lift the firing member earlier than the staple cartridge 43620. In a compatible surgical instrument, the first staple cartridge 43610 will cause a wedge, such as the wedges described herein, to lift the firing member at the appropriate time and location such that the firing member will land on the unfired slide of the first staple cartridge 43610, To deactivate the latch and enable the firing member to be advanced distally to perform the staple firing stroke. In an incompatible surgical instrument, the first staple cartridge 43610 would cause the wedge to lift the firing member at an incorrect time and location, for example, causing the firing member to drop before reaching the slide or causing the firing member to be lifted onto the slide The slider was bumped distally before. Two situations involving the installation of incompatible cartridges and instruments will result in the firing member entering a latched state when attempting to move the firing member through the firing stroke. The second staple cartridge 43620 works in a similar fashion. Even so, the second staple cartridge 43620 cannot unlock instruments compatible with the first staple cartridge 43610, and vice versa.

168 and 169 illustrate a system 44000 including a first cartridge 44100 (FIG. 168) and a second cartridge 44200 (FIG. 169). The first staple cartridge 44100 includes a cartridge body 44110 that includes a proximal end 44111, a distal end 44112, and a plurality of staple cavities 44114 extending in rows between the proximal end 44111 and the distal end 44112 . The first staple cartridge 44100 also includes a cartridge tray 44130 configured to retain the staples in the cartridge body 44110, and a slider 44120 configured to deploy the staples from the cartridge body 44110. Cartridge body 44110 also includes a longitudinal slot 44113 defined therein that is configured to receive a firing member of a surgical stapling assembly. The longitudinal slot 44113 defines a first lateral side and a second lateral side labeled "A" and "B", respectively. Cartridge body 44110 also includes a latch key 44116 extending from proximal side 44115 of first lateral side "A" of cartridge body 44110.

The second staple cartridge 44200 includes a cartridge body 44210 that includes a proximal end 44211, a distal end 44212, and a plurality of staple cavities 44214 extending in rows between the proximal end 44211 and the distal end 44212 . The second staple cartridge 44200 also includes a cartridge tray 44230 configured to retain the staples in the cartridge body 44210, and a slider 44220 configured to deploy the staples from the cartridge body 44210. Cartridge body 44210 also includes a longitudinal slot 44213 defined therein that is configured to receive a firing member of a surgical stapling assembly. The longitudinal slot 44213 defines a first lateral side and a second lateral side labeled "A" and "B", respectively. The cartridge body 44210 also includes a latch key 44216 extending from the proximal side 44215 of the second lateral side "B" of the cartridge body 44210.

The staple cavity 44114 includes three rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 44113. Each row defines a row axis with which each staple cavity in the row is aligned. In other words, the proximal and distal ends of each lumen in a single row are aligned with the row axis of that row. The staple cavity 44214 includes three rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 44213. Each row defines a row axis with which each staple cavity in the row is laterally aligned. Each side of the staple cartridge 44200 includes an outer row of staple cavities 44214, an inner row of staple cavities 44214, and an intermediate row of staple cavities 44214 positioned between the outer row of staple cavities 44214 and the inner row of staple cavities 44214. The staple cavities 44214 in the middle row define a lumen axis that is transverse to the lumen axis defined by the staple cavities 44214 in the inner row and the staple cavities 44214 in the outer row.

System 44000 provides a means of preventing incorrect staple cartridges from being used with surgical stapling assemblies by providing latching keys for each cartridge on different sides of the staple cartridge. Providing latching keys on different sides of the staple cartridge prevents a stapling assembly that includes corresponding staple forming pockets for the first staple cartridge 44100 from being used with the second staple cartridge 44200 and prevents the A stapling assembly corresponding to the staple forming pockets is used with the first staple cartridge 44100. Therefore, the first staple cartridge 44100 will not be able to unlock the firing latch for the surgical stapling assembly of the second staple cartridge 44200, and the second staple cartridge 44200 will not be able to unlock the firing lock for the surgical stapling assembly of the first staple cartridge 44100 pieces. This prevents incorrect cartridge installation that could result in the deployment of staples against anvils with non-corresponding staple forming pockets.

170-179 illustrate a surgical stapling assembly 45000 configured to grip, staple, and cut patient tissue. Surgical stapling assembly 45000 may be used with a surgical robot and/or surgical instrument handle. Surgical stapling assembly 45000 includes a first jaw 45200 , a second jaw 45400 movable relative to the first jaw 45200 between a release configuration and a clamped configuration, and a firing assembly 45500 . The surgical stapling assembly 45000 also includes a replaceable staple cartridge 45300 that includes a plurality of staples removably stored therein configured to be deployable by the firing assembly 45500. The first jaw 45200 includes a channel 45210 configured to receive a replaceable staple cartridge 45300. The second jaw 45400 includes an anvil 45410 that includes a staple forming surface 45415 configured to form staples deployed from the staple cartridge 45300. The first jaw 45200 also includes a pin hole 45212 ( FIG. 171 ) in which the pivot pin 45413 of the second jaw 45400 is received to allow the second jaw 45400 to pivot relative to the first jaw 45200 . Embodiments are contemplated in which the stationary jaw includes an anvil and the movable jaw includes a channel and a staple cartridge.

To grip tissue with surgical stapling assembly 45000, second jaw 45400 includes a camming surface 45412 formed on a proximal end 45411 thereof that is configured to be engageable by a closure member. The closure member includes, for example, a closure tube, but may include any other suitable configuration. The closure member is configured to cam the second jaw 45400 from the release configuration toward the channel 45210 to the clamped configuration by engaging and sliding along the camming surface 45412. To release the surgical stapling assembly 45000, the closure member is retracted proximally. When the closure member is disengaged from the camming surface 45412, a spring may be provided to bias the second jaw 45400 to the released configuration.

In order to staple and cut tissue with surgical stapling assembly 45000, the correct unused staple cartridge must be installed within surgical stapling assembly 45000. When the correct unused staple cartridge is installed in the channel 45210, the firing assembly 45500 can be actuated through the staple cartridge 45300 to urge the slider 45340 of the staple cartridge 45300 distally from the unfired position to the fired position, thereby causing the The staples stored in the staple cartridge 45300 are deployed during the staple firing stroke. As the firing assembly 45500 moves to complete the staple firing stroke, the cutting edge 45523 of the firing assembly cuts the tissue clamped between the first jaw 45200 and the second jaw 45400. In at least one instance, the cutting edge 45523 follows the deployment of the staples to prevent tissue from being cut before being stapled.

172-175, the firing assembly 45500 includes a firing member 45520 that includes a cutting edge 45523, an anvil cam action portion 45521, and a channel cam action portion 45522 that is configured to be capable of firing during the staple firing stroke During control of the distance between the first jaw 45200 and the second jaw 45400, and a laterally extending portion 45525 positioned between the anvil cam action portion 45521 and the channel cam portion 45522, the laterally extending portion is configured to enable into the latch, as discussed in more detail below. The firing member 45520 also includes a tail 45526 extending proximally therefrom that is configured to interface with a spring 45240 mounted in the shaft, as discussed in more detail below.

To prevent the firing assembly 45500 from being advanced through an incorrect and/or spent staple cartridge, the surgical stapling assembly 45000 also includes a latching system. Surgical stapling assembly 45000 includes a submersible knife latch, such as those disclosed herein, in which firing assembly 45500 falls into the latch pocket if the correct unused staple cartridge is not installed within surgical stapling assembly 45000. A proper unused staple cartridge, such as staple cartridge 45300, is configured to prevent the firing assembly 45500 from falling into the latch pocket by raising the firing assembly 45500 when the staple cartridge 45300 is not used up. In such a case, the distal end of the firing assembly would land on the unfired slide of the staple cartridge 45300. The firing assembly 45500 can then be advanced through the staple cartridge 45300.

The staple cartridge 45300 includes a latch key 45330 to lift the firing assembly 45500 to the correct height and distance to allow the firing assembly 45500 to land on the unfired sled and deactivate the latch of the surgical stapling assembly 45000. The staple cartridge 45300 also includes a cartridge body 45310 that includes a proximal end 45301 having a proximal side 45313 and a longitudinal slot 45311 configured to receive the firing assembly 45500 during the staple firing stroke. The latch key 45330 extends proximally from the proximal side 45313 of the cartridge body 45310 and includes a pair of protrusions that define a proximal longitudinal slot portion 45333 of the longitudinal slot 45311 . The proximal longitudinal slot portion 45333 is configured to span the firing member 45520 when the staple cartridge 45300 is installed in the channel 45210. Each protrusion of the latch key 45330 includes an inclined surface or portion 45331 and a non-inclined portion or surface 45332. The staple cartridge 45300 also includes a tray 45320 configured to retain staples within the cartridge body 45310. The disc 45320 is configured to be clipped onto the platform 45312 of the cartridge body 45310. The tray 45320 can be removably attached to the cartridge body 45310 by a series of hooks 45321 formed on the side walls of the cartridge tray 45320 and configured to engage corresponding portions of the cartridge body 45310 in the form of hooks. In at least one instance, the disc may include a latch key.

The firing assembly 45500 includes a firing shaft 45510 configured to transmit firing action to the firing member 45520. The firing member 45520 is attached to the distal end 45513 of the firing shaft 45510. The firing member 45520 is biased downward by a spring 45420 mounted in the shaft. More specifically, the spring 45420 pushes the tail 45526 of the firing member 45520 downward to bias the firing member 45520 unless the firing member 45520 is lifted up away from the firing latch. To lift the firing assembly 45500, the surgical stapling assembly 45000 includes a floating pin 45600 positioned behind the firing member 45520 of the firing assembly 45500. The floating pin 45600 is supported within a slot or channel 45213 defined in the side of the cartridge channel 45210. The floating pin 45600 is configured to move vertically within the slot 45213 by means of the inclined surface 45331. More specifically, the floating pin 45600 is pushed up by the latch key 45330 into the cartridge channel 45210, which in turn contacts the bottom edge of the firing member 45520 and pushes the firing member 45520 up. Thus, when the staple cartridge 45300 is seated in the staple cartridge channel 45210, the floating pin 45600 prevents the firing member 45520 from diving into the firing latch. In this way, the latch key 45330 overcomes the downward spring bias applied by the spring 45240 to the firing member 45520.

Once the staple cartridge 45300 is fully installed and the firing assembly 45500 is raised to the position shown in FIG. Therefore, with the correct latch key, the first stage of the latch is deactivated. If the slider 45340 is in its unfired position, the distal nose or shelf 45524 of the firing member 45520 will rest on the corresponding platform 45341 of the slider 45340 and avoid the latching described above. Landing the distal nose 45524 of the firing member 45520 on the platform 45341 of the slider 45340 when the slider 45340 is in its unfired position disables the second stage of the latch. When the firing assembly 45500 is advanced distally, the bottom surface 45511 rides over the floating pin 45600, and the height of the firing assembly 45500 is controlled by the engagement between the floating pin 45600, the bottom surface 45511 of the firing shaft 45510, and the latching key 45600.

Because the height of the firing assembly 45500 is controlled by the engagement between the floating pin 45600, the bottom surface 45511 of the firing shaft 45510, and the latching key 45600, the firing shaft 45510 is configured so that when the slider 45340 of the staple cartridge 45300 is not in its unfired position When in position, the firing assembly 45500 can still drop into the latch. 176 and 177, the bottom surface 45511 includes a notch 45515 defined proximal of the distal end 45513 of the firing shaft 45510. The notch 45515 is configured so that if the slider 45340 is not present in its unfired position, the firing shaft 45510 will drop into the latch. 176 shows the staple cartridge 45300 installed within the channel 45210; however, the slider 45340 is not present in its unfired position. Thus, turning to Fig. 177, the firing shaft 45510 is not lifted up enough by the floating pin 45600 to lift the firing shaft 45510 out of the latch. Conversely, as the firing assembly 45500 is advanced distally due to the fitting of the floating pin 45600 in the recess 45515, the firing shaft 45510 is pulled downward by the spring 45240. In order to perform the staple firing stroke, the incorrect cartridge must be removed and replaced with the correct unfired staple cartridge.

If the staple cartridge is installed in a surgical stapling assembly that does not have the correct latch key, the floating pin 45600 will remain in its lowermost position as shown in FIG. 172 . If an attempt is made to advance the firing assembly 45500 distally, the firing assembly 45500 will not be able to overcome the first stage of the latch.

Figure 180 shows the staple cartridge 45300 described above. 181 shows a second staple cartridge 45900 including a cartridge body 45910 and a disk 45920 configured to retain a plurality of staples in the staple cartridge 45900. Cartridge body 45910 also includes a latch key 45930 extending proximally from proximal side 45913 of cartridge body 45910. As can be seen in FIGS. 180 and 181, the staple cartridge 45300 and the second staple cartridge 45900 include similar features; however, these staple cartridges include latching keys with different configurations. The latch key 45330 of the staple cartridge 45300 includes a first length 45338 and a first height 45339, while the latch key 45930 of the second staple cartridge 45900 includes a second length 45938 and a second height different from the first length 45338 and the first height 45339, respectively 45939. The staple cartridges 45300, 45900 are part of a system in which the staple cartridge 45300 can only unlock the first instrument and not the second instrument, and the second staple cartridge 45900 can only unlock the second instrument and not the first instrument. The latch key 45930 includes an inclined surface 45931 and a flat surface 45932 that are different in size from the surfaces 45331 , 45332 of the latch key 45330 . For comparison purposes, the latch key 45330 of the staple cartridge 45300 is shown in phantom in FIG. 181 .

For example, different latching key configurations between similar looking cartridges can prevent a clinician from inserting and using an incompatible cartridge in a second instrument. In this case, the latching keys 45330, 45930 will cause the firing assembly of the instrument to be raised to different heights and at different times during the firing stroke of the firing assembly. Referring back to the floating pin 45600, the firing assembly 45500 will be lifted by the floating pin 45600 with the second staple cartridge 45900 installed in the surgical stapling assembly 45000 less than the firing assembly 45500 will be floated with the staple cartridge 45300 installed 45600 The height of the lift. This would result in the firing assembly 45500 not being able to land on the slider platform of the second cartridge, but would instead be latched. This will prevent the use of an incorrect staple cartridge within the stapling instrument.

An instrument that can be used with the second staple cartridge 45900 can include a similar floating pin system as described above; however, the floating pin can be positioned in a different location relative to the second staple cartridge 45900 such that the latch key 45930 can lock the instrument. The firing member is raised to the appropriate height and falls on the slide of the second cartridge 45900 at the appropriate time to bypass the lockout of the instrument. In at least one instance, the latching keys described herein include, for example, cartridge body flaps.

Various aspects of the subject matter described herein are set forth in the following examples:

Example 1 - A surgical stapling assembly including a staple cartridge and a stapling instrument configured to receive the staple cartridge in the stapling instrument. The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body including a latch key, a plurality of staples stored within the cartridge body, and a slider configured to deploy the staples from the cartridge body. The slider is movable between an unfired position and a fired position. The stapling instrument includes a first jaw, a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw, a firing member configured to push the slider to deploy the staples, and a latch, the A latch is configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member when the staple cartridge is not properly seated within the stapling instrument and when the slide of the staple cartridge is not in the unfired position . The latch key deactivates the first stage of the latch when the staple cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument. When the slider is in the unfired position and the staple cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument, the slider disables the second stage of the latch.

Embodiment 2 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiment 1, wherein the latching key comprises a cartridge body flap extending proximally from a proximal end of the cartridge body.

Embodiment 3 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the stapling instrument further comprises a floating pin supported within the first jaw, and wherein the floating pin is configured to be operable by the A latch key engages to lift the firing member away from the latch, thereby disabling the first stage of the latch.

Embodiment 4 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiment 3, wherein the latching key comprises a cartridge body flap extending proximally from a proximal end of the cartridge body, and wherein the cartridge body flap A ramp surface is included that is configured to lift the floating pin.

Embodiment 5 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 3 or 4, wherein the firing member comprises a knife body and a firing shaft, wherein the firing shaft is configured to transmit a firing motion to the knife body, and wherein the floating pin is configured to contact the firing shaft to lift the firing member.

Embodiment 6 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 3, 4, or 5, wherein the firing member comprises a knife configured to cut tissue, and wherein the floating pin is configured when the knife is in a home position On the proximal side of the knife.

Embodiment 7 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, wherein the firing member includes a shelf configured to be able to hold the slider in any position. The slider is engaged in the unfired position to disable the second stage of the lockout after the first stage of the lockout has failed.

Embodiment 8 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7, wherein the latch includes a biasing member configured to The firing member is biased toward the locked configuration.

Embodiment 9 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiment 8, wherein the surgical stapling assembly further comprises a spring-biased cam-action member configured to be capable of being activated by the latch key engaged, and wherein the spring-biased cam-action member is configured to lift the firing member away from the locking configuration when the spring-biased cam-action member is engaged by the lockout key to cause the The first stage of the lockout fails.

Embodiment 10 - The surgical stapling assembly of Embodiments 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or 9, wherein the first stage of the closure must be The second stage failed before.

Example 11 - A surgical staple cartridge configured for use with a stapling instrument. The stapling instrument includes a first jaw, a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw, and a firing member including a tissue cutter. The surgical staple cartridge includes a cartridge body including proximal and distal ends, a plurality of staples stored within the cartridge body, and a slider configured to be removable from the cartridge body deploys the pegs. The slider is movable within the cartridge between an unfired position and a fired position. The cartridge body includes a latch key ramp extending proximally from the proximal end of the cartridge body. The latch key ramps are configured to disable a first stage of a corresponding latch of the stapling instrument by contacting the tissue cutting element when the surgical staple cartridge is properly seated within the stapling instrument the firing member proximal to the knife to lift the firing member. The slider is configured to disable a second stage of a corresponding latch in the stapling instrument when the slider is in the unfired position.

Embodiment 12 - The surgical staple cartridge of Embodiment 11, wherein the latching key ramp extends proximally from the proximal end of the cartridge body.

Embodiment 13 - The surgical staple cartridge of Embodiment 11 or 12, wherein the cartridge body includes a first side and a second side, and wherein the latch key ramp includes the first side from the cartridge body a first ramp extending proximally laterally and a second ramp extending proximally from the second side of the cartridge body.

Embodiment 14 - A stapling assembly configured to receive a surgical staple cartridge therein. The stapling assembly includes a firing assembly including a firing member configured to deploy staples of a surgical staple cartridge installed in the stapling assembly, a first jaw, movable relative to the first jaw the second jaw, and a latch configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member when an unfired surgical staple cartridge is not installed within the stapling assembly. The latch includes a biasing member configured to bias the firing member toward a locked configuration. The firing assembly also includes a cam action member and a shelf. The cam-action member is configured to lift the firing member to disable the first stage of the latch. The cam-action member is configured to be engageable by a latch key of the surgical staple cartridge. The shelf is configured to prevent the firing member from falling into the latch to disable the second stage of the latch. The shelf is configured to engage an unfired slide of the surgical staple cartridge to disable the second stage of the latch.

Embodiment 15 - The suturing assembly of Embodiment 14, wherein the firing member comprises a knife, and wherein the cam-action member is positioned proximal of the knife.

Embodiment 16 - The stapling assembly of Embodiment 14 or 15, wherein the first jaw includes a channel configured to receive the surgical staple cartridge, wherein the cam-action member is included in the firing member A floating pin is supported below in the channel.

Embodiment 17 - The suturing assembly of Embodiments 14, 15, or 16, wherein the second jaw is pivotable about a pivot axis, and wherein the cam acting member is positioned distal to the pivot axis side.

Embodiment 18 - The suturing assembly of Embodiments 14, 15, 16, or 17, wherein the firing member includes a shelf configured to engage the sled when the slider is in the unfired position. a slide of the surgical staple cartridge to disable the second stage of the lockout after the first stage of the lockout fails.

Embodiment 19 - The suturing assembly of Embodiments 14, 15, 16, 17, or 18, wherein the latch includes a biasing member configured to bias the firing member toward a locking member type bias.

Embodiment 20 - The suturing assembly of Embodiments 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, or 19, wherein the suturing assembly further comprises a spring-biased camming member that is configured to be engageable by a latch key of the surgical staple cartridge, and wherein the spring-biased cam-action member is configured to be capable of firing the firing when the spring-biased cam-action member is engaged by the latch key A member is lifted away from the locked configuration to disable the first stage of the latch.

Many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are actuated by electric motors; however, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated in any suitable manner. In various instances, for example, the surgical instrument systems described herein may be actuated by manually operated triggers. In some cases, the motors disclosed herein may include part or parts of a robotic control system. Furthermore, any end effector and/or tool assembly disclosed herein may be used with a robotic surgical instrument system. For example, US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 (now US Patent 9,072,535) entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENTARRANGEMENTS" discloses several examples of robotic surgical instrument systems in greater detail.

The surgical instrument systems described herein have been described in conjunction with deployment and deformation of the staples; however, the embodiments described herein are not so limited. For example, various embodiments are contemplated that deploy fasteners other than nails, such as clips or tacks. In addition, various embodiments are contemplated that utilize any suitable device for sealing tissue. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal tissue. Additionally, for example, end effectors according to certain embodiments may apply vibrational energy to seal tissue.

The entire disclosures of the following patents are hereby incorporated by reference:

- US Patent 5,403,312 entitled "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE", issued April 4, 1995;

- US Patent 7,000,818 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVINGSEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" issued on February 21, 2006;

- US Patent 7,422,139 entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING ANDFASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK" issued on September 9, 2008;

- US Patent 7,464,849 entitled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENTWITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS" issued on December 16, 2008;

- US Patent 7,670,334 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING ANARTICULATING END EFFECTOR" issued on March 2, 2010;

- US Patent 7,753,245 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" issued on July 13, 2010;

- US Patent 8,393,514 entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLEFASTENER CARTRIDGE" issued March 12, 2013;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 11/343,803 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES", now US Patent 7,845,537;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,573, filed February 14, 2008, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/031,873 (now US Patent 7,980,443), filed February 15, 2008, entitled "END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING ANDSTAPLING INSTRUMENT";

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,782 entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 8,210,411;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/235,972 entitled "MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Patent 9,050,083.

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/249,117 entitled "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM", now US Patent 8,608,045;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/647,100, entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTINGINSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY," filed December 24, 2009, now US Patent 8,220,688;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 12/893,461, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE", filed September 29, 2012, now US Patent 8,733,613;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/036,647, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT", filed February 28, 2011, now US Patent 8,561,870;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLEDEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", now US Patent 9,072,535;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/524,049, entitled "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTCOMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE," filed June 15, 2012, now US Patent 9,101,358;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,025, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM", filed March 13, 2013, now US Patent 9,345,481;

- US Patent Application Serial No. 13/800,067, entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSORSYSTEM", filed March 13, 2013, now US Patent Application Publication 2014/0263552;

- US Patent Application Publication 2007/0175955, filed January 31, 2006, entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM"; and

- US Patent Application Publication 2010/0264194, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH ANARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR", filed April 22, 2010, now US Patent 8,308,040.

Although various apparatuses have been described herein in connection with certain embodiments, many modifications and variations of these embodiments can be implemented. The particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, without limitation, a particular feature, structure or characteristic illustrated or described in connection with one embodiment may be combined in whole or in part with the features, structures or characteristics of one or more other embodiments. Additionally, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may also be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced with a single component, to perform a given function or functions. The foregoing detailed description and the following claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned after at least one use. Reconditioning may include any combination of steps including, but not limited to, disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of specific components of the device, and subsequent reassembly of the device. Specifically, the refurbishment facility and/or surgical team may disassemble the device, and after cleaning and/or replacing certain components of the device, the device may be reassembled for subsequent use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the trimming device can be disassembled, cleaned/replaced, and reassembled using a variety of techniques. The use of such techniques and the resulting trimming devices are within the scope of this application.

The devices disclosed herein can be processed prior to surgery. First, new or used instruments are available and cleaned as needed. The instruments can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and device can then be exposed to a radiation field that penetrates the container, such as gamma radiation, X-rays, and/or high-energy electrons. Radiation kills bacteria on instruments and in containers. The sterilized instruments can then be stored in sterile containers. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until the container is opened in the medical facility. The device may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta radiation, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, plasma peroxide, and/or steam.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, this invention can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, this application is intended to cover any adaptations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using the general principles of the invention.

Claims (20)

1. A surgical stapling assembly comprising:

a staple cartridge, the staple cartridge comprising:

a cartridge body comprising a latch key;

a plurality of staples stored within the cartridge body; and

a sled configured to deploy the staples from the cartridge body, wherein the sled is movable between an unfired position and a fired position; and

a stapling instrument configured to receive the staple cartridge therein, wherein the stapling instrument comprises:

a first jaw;

a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw;

a firing member configured to push the sled to deploy the staples; and

a lockout configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member when the staple cartridge is not properly seated within the stapling instrument and when the sled of the staple cartridge is not in the unfired position, wherein the lockout key disables a first stage of the lockout when the staple cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument, and wherein the sled disables a second stage of the lockout when the sled is in the unfired position and the staple cartridge is fully seated in the stapling instrument.

2. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 1, wherein said lockout key comprises a cartridge body flap extending proximally from a proximal end of said cartridge body.

3. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 1, wherein said stapling instrument further comprises a floating pin supported within said first jaw, wherein said floating pin is configured to be engaged by said lockout key to lift said firing member away from said lockout to disable said first stage of said lockout.

4. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 3, wherein said lockout key comprises a cartridge body flap extending proximally from a proximal end of said cartridge body, and wherein said cartridge body flap comprises a ramped surface configured to lift said floating pin.

5. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 4, wherein said firing member comprises a knife body and a firing shaft, wherein said firing shaft is configured to transmit a firing motion to said knife body, and wherein said floating pin is configured to contact said firing shaft to lift said firing member.

6. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 4, wherein said firing member comprises a knife configured to cut tissue, and wherein said floating pin is proximal to said knife when said knife is in a home position.

7. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 1, wherein said firing member comprises a shelf configured to engage said sled when said sled is in said unfired position to disable said second stage of said lockout after said first stage of said lockout is disabled.

8. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 1, wherein said lockout comprises a biasing member configured to bias said firing member toward a locked configuration.

9. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 8, wherein said surgical stapling assembly further comprises a spring biased camming member configured to be engaged by said lockout key, and wherein said spring biased camming member is configured to lift said firing member away from said locked configuration to disable said first stage of said lockout when said spring biased camming member is engaged by said lockout key.

10. The surgical stapling assembly of claim 1, wherein said first stage of said lockout must fail prior to said second stage of said lockout.

11. A surgical staple cartridge configured for use with a stapling instrument, wherein said stapling instrument comprises a first jaw, a second jaw movable relative to said first jaw, and a firing member comprising a tissue cutting knife, and wherein said surgical staple cartridge comprises:

a cartridge body comprising a proximal end and a distal end;

a plurality of staples stored within the cartridge body; and

a sled configured to deploy the staples from the cartridge body, wherein the sled is movable within the cartridge body between an unfired position and a fired position,

wherein the cartridge body comprises a latch key ramp extending proximally from the proximal end of the cartridge body, and wherein the latch key ramp is configured to disable a first stage of a corresponding latch of the stapling instrument by: when the surgical staple cartridge is properly seated within the stapling instrument, contacting the firing member proximal to the tissue cutting knife to lift the firing member, and wherein the sled is configured to disable the second stage of the corresponding lockout in the stapling instrument when the sled is in the unfired position.

12. The surgical staple cartridge of claim 11 wherein said lockout key ramp extends proximally from a proximal end of said cartridge body.

13. The surgical staple cartridge of claim 11 wherein said cartridge body comprises a first side and a second side and wherein said lockout key ramp comprises a first ramp extending proximally from said first side of said cartridge body and a second ramp extending proximally from said second side of said cartridge body.

14. A stapling assembly configured to receive a surgical staple cartridge therein, wherein said stapling assembly comprises:

a firing assembly comprising a firing member configured to deploy staples of a surgical staple cartridge mounted in the stapling assembly;

a first jaw;

a second jaw movable relative to the first jaw; and

a lockout configured to prevent distal advancement of the firing member when an unfired surgical staple cartridge is not installed within the stapling assembly, wherein the lockout comprises a biasing member configured to bias the firing member toward a locked configuration,

Wherein the firing assembly further comprises:

a camming member configured to lift the firing member to disable the first stage of the lockout, wherein the camming member is configured to be engaged by a lockout key of the surgical staple cartridge; and

a rack configured to prevent the firing member from falling into the lockout to disable the second stage of the lockout, wherein the rack is configured to engage an unfired sled of the surgical staple cartridge to disable the second stage of the lockout.

15. The stapling assembly of claim 14, wherein said firing member comprises a knife, and wherein said camming member is positioned proximal to said knife.

16. The stapling assembly of claim 15, wherein said first jaw comprises a channel configured to receive said surgical staple cartridge, wherein said camming member comprises a floating pin supported within said channel beneath said firing member.

17. The stapling assembly of claim 15, wherein the second jaw is pivotable about a pivot axis, and wherein the camming member is positioned distal to the pivot axis.

18. The stapling assembly of claim 14, wherein said firing member comprises a shelf configured to engage a sled of said surgical staple cartridge when said sled is in an unfired position to disable said second stage of said lockout after said first stage of said lockout is disabled.

19. The stapling assembly of claim 14, wherein said lockout comprises a biasing member configured to bias said firing member toward a locked configuration.

20. The stapling assembly of claim 14, wherein the stapling assembly further comprises a spring-biased camming member configured to be engaged by a lockout key of the surgical staple cartridge, and wherein the spring-biased camming member is configured to lift the firing member away from the locked configuration to disable the first stage of the lockout when the spring-biased camming member is engaged by the lockout key.

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