Abstract: A surgical staple and stapler for use in stapling together the tissue of a patient. The staple is a rounded M-shape or gull wing shape in form. The surgical staple has a base which is bent downward in the center while the legs of the staple at each end of the base are outwardly bent. The outwardly bent legs of the staple are cut or formed to a sharp points at the end of the legs. The staple is circular in cross-section, but has a flat surface on the lower side. This staple facilitates stacking, feeding and removal of the staple. It further ensures a clean puncturing of the tissue that is stapled when used with the surgical stapling instrument.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved reciprocating jaw type hemostatic clip applier or ligator. The improved apparatus is provided with an improved camming mechanism which interfaces with the jaws to cam the jaws closed and which is designed to maintain its alignment with respect to the jaws to prevent misalignment of the jaws during closure and malformation of clips. The improved apparatus is also provided with a lockout mechanism which prevents the jaws from being closed once the last clip has been formed and released from the instrument.