Abstract: An apparatus is provided for applying a plurality of surgical fasteners to body tissue. The apparatus includes a staple carrying cartridge having an internal lockout mechanism for preventing operation of the apparatus after the staples have been fired from the cartridge. The lockout mechanism is movable between a first position prior to a staple firing operation wherein a firing mechanism is permitted to enter the staple cartridge and a second position upon retraction of the firing mechanism from the staple cartridge following a staple firing operation wherein the firing mechanism is prevented from entering the staple cartridge.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for applying surgical fasteners to body tissue includes a cartridge containing a plurality of fasteners, an anvil positioned opposite the cartridge, and a locking mechanism to prevent re-approximation of the cartridge towards the anvil after the fasteners are fired and the cartridge is withdrawn from the anvil.

Abstract: A handle for an endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical instrument including a flexible member positioned within a tubular body member extending from the handle. The flexible member is secured about a rotatable flywheel spool in said handle and extends to a tool mechanism at a distal end of the instrument. The flexible member is wound about the flywheel spool and is extended or withdrawn upon movement of the handle.

Abstract: A surgical fastener, such as a stapler, is constructed of a pair of opposed jaws, one of which comprises an anvil and the other of which holds the fastener holder assembly, such as a cartridge, oriented towards the anvil. A clamp bar operable by a lever is longitudinally displaceable to advance the cartridge towards the anvil to clamp the subject matter prior to fastening. The clamp bar rides within a frame which supports the lever and the jaws. A thrust bar is longitudinally displaceable in response to the pivoting of a trigger to operate staple pushing elements within the cartridge to eject the fasteners towards the anvil for engagement with body tissue to be fastened. The thrust bar rides within the clamp bar. A pin is inserted between ends of the jaws to secure the jaws against loss of any portion of the body tissue during the clamping procedure. The pin has a cam surface which moves during a securing of the pin. A lockout system is provided for preventing both clamping and ejection of the fasteners, e.g.