Abstract: A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include an articulation mechanism including a ball screw to selectively articulate the jaw assembly relative to an elongate shaft. The handle assembly can include a mechanism to lock out selection of the staple firing mode and actuation of the articulation mechanism if a reload shaft is not securely coupled to the handle assembly.

Abstract: A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include an articulation mechanism including a ball screw to selectively articulate the jaw assembly relative to an elongate shaft. The handle assembly can include a mechanism to lock out selection of the staple firing mode and actuation of the articulation mechanism if a reload shaft is not securely coupled to the handle assembly.

Abstract: A handle assembly for a surgical stapler can comprise a rotatable actuation shaft. The actuation shaft can have a first rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a staple firing mode, and a second rotational orientation in which it can actuate a jaw assembly in a reversing mode. The handle assembly can include an articulation mechanism including a ball screw to selectively articulate the jaw assembly relative to an elongate shaft. The handle assembly can include a mechanism to lock out selection of the staple firing mode and actuation of the articulation mechanism if a reload shaft is not securely coupled to the handle assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to prosthetic devices that include antimicrobial substances for reducing microbial infection, and method of using such implants for repairing, reconstructing and/or augmenting a defect or a weakness in a wall of a muscle, tissue or organ.

Abstract: An implantable prosthesis is provided for repairing or augmenting anatomical weaknesses or defects, and is particularly suitable for the repair of soft tissue and muscle wall openings. The prosthesis may include a repair fabric that is constructed and arranged to allow tissue ingrowth and is susceptible to erosion into and the formation of adhesions with tissue and organs. One or more regions of the prosthesis may be configured to inhibit erosion into and/or the formation of adhesions with tissue and organs. The prosthesis may include an erosion resistant edge to buffer an edge of the fabric from the adjacent tissue or organs. The erosion resistant edge may be provided along an opening that is adapted to receive a tube-like structure, such as the esophagus.

Abstract: A method for forming vascular graft prostheses is described. In particular, the method relates to determining the carrying volume of a gelable material to fill the interstices of a fabric prosthesis, applying that carrying volume of gelable material to the prosthesis, and crosslinking the gelable material to form uniform gel-coated prostheses having low porosity.