Abstract: A surgical instrument for performing endoscopic surgical procedures. In one embodiment, the instrument includes a knife that remains unexposed until initiation of a cutting sequence, and returns to an unexposed position at the conclusion of the cutting sequence, minimizing the risk of injury to the person handling the instrument. In another embodiment, the instrument includes a flexible neck for articulating a surgical head assembly with respect to the shaft of the instrument. In another embodiment, a device for locking the articulated head at an angle of articulation is provided. In yet another embodiment, a mechanism for opening and closing an anvil assembly is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a mechanical morcellator which includes a rotatable and relatively retractable cutting head. User manipulation varies the amount the cutting head extends out of a sheath, the amount of suction communicated to the cutting head, and the operation of a motor which rotatably drives the cutting head. Suction is communicated to the cutting head to aspirate the tissue fragmented by the cutting head. The morcellator is adapted to be inserted through a laparoscopic port site and directly fragment and aspirate tissue from within a patient's body. Alternate embodiments of the present invention provide different cutting head extension and retraction devices. The morcellator of the present invention allows removal of tissue without the need for large entry incisions.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device for laparoscopic use in tissue dissection and coagulation. The device includes a barrel member having a dissection tip at the distal end thereof that is connected to a source of electrical energy. An insulating sheath member surrounds the barrel member. The sheath member is movable between a first position wherein the distal end thereof extends distally beyond the dissection tip and a second position wherein the dissection tip extends distally beyond the distal end portion of the sheath member. The device includes means to flush and vacuum the surgical site. The device also includes pressure relief means to limit the internal pressure within the device.

Abstract: A lockout mechanism actuable upon the firing of staples in a surgical staple cartridge such that the lockout mechanism prevents the refiring of the spent staple cartridge when that cartridge remains loaded within the surgical stapler. In addition, the lockout mechanism will prevent reloading of a spent staple cartridge within a surgical stapler after the spent staple cartridge has been removed from the surgical stapler.

Abstract: An initiating device which imparts stored potential energy to the driver and cutter in an internal organ stapler. Also disclosed is an overriding device which prevent the use of such a device until the proper clamping of the jaws of the stapler with each other.

Abstract: A stapler having a pistol grip which can be entirely formed as a one-piece molding, without need for separate springs, connectors or other parts. The main springs are not stressed until the trigger is pulled for the first time. Staples of a special configuration are closed by a driver having a specially shaped forming end.

Abstract: A lockout mechanism actuable upon the firing of staples in a surgical staple cartridge such that the lockout mechanism prevents the refiring of the spent staple cartridge when the cartridge remains loaded within the surgical stapler. In addition, the lockout mechanism will prevent reloading of a spent staple cartridge within a surgical stapler after the spent staple cartridge has been removed from the surgical stapler.