Abstract: A specimen retrieval device for endoscopic procedures includes a sleeve, barbed sutures, guide members, and a contractible band that is supported about an open distal end of the sleeve. Each of the barbed sutures have an elongate body, a distal portion, a proximal portion, and barbs that extend proximally from the elongate body. The guide members are secured to an inner surface of the sleeve and slidably receive respective barbed sutures. A tissue specimen to be removed from a patient is placed within a cavity defined by the sleeve and within the confines of the barbed sutures. Proximal portions of the barbed threads can be independently or simultaneously pulled in a proximal direction to withdraw the tissue specimen and the sleeve from the body cavity.

Abstract: A surgical stapling device includes a replaceable staple cartridge that includes a knife sharpener for sharpening a cutting blade of the stapling device prior to each firing of the stapling device. In aspects of the disclosure, the staple cartridge includes wipers positioned distally of the knife sharpener to remove particulate material from the cutting blade before the cutting blade engages tissue.

Abstract: An endoscopic surgical instrument includes an elongated shaft and a pair of elongated arms extending through the shaft. The arms have a distal end portion configured to grasp tissue therebetween. The distal end portion of at least one of the arms is equipped with a sensor for sensing a property of the tissue.