Abstract: An end effector assembly of an ultrasonic surgical instrument includes an ultrasonic blade configured to mechanically couple to an ultrasonic transducer configured to transmit ultrasonic vibration energy to the ultrasonic blade and a jaw member movable relative to the ultrasonic blade from a spaced-apart position to an approximated position for clamping tissue therebetween. The jaw member includes a structural body and a jaw liner engaged with the structural body. The jaw liner defines a tissue contacting surface positioned to oppose the ultrasonic blade in the approximated position, and includes a wear indicator disposed within the jaw liner and configured to provide an alert indicating that the jaw liner is worn beyond a pre-determined threshold.

Abstract: In a method of manufacturing a member having a cross-sectional area which varies along its length, the member is produced by filling a cavity 6 in a die 5 with powdered material and compressing it. The die includes portions 8, 9 and 10 at different heights around the opening 7 so as to enable the amount of powdered present in the cavity to be varied along its length without compromising the shape of the final item to be manufactured.