Abstract: A laparoscopic instrument includes a handgrip and an articulated lever. A shank is attached to the handgrip at its closer end, and tissue acting actuators are installed at the further end of the shank. A string moves the actuators. A further end of the string is connected to the actuators, and a closer end is connected to the lever. The movement of the lever is coupled with movement of the actuators. The instrument has an integrated latching mechanism, which includes a toothed bar and a latch, holding the actuators in the operating position, and a locking and releasing mechanism equipped with a switching lever for holding and disengaging the latching mechanism. The switching lever is rotatably mounted on the handgrip and has a pushback element which, in the release position of the switching lever, disengages the latching mechanism move the toothed bar away from the latch.

Abstract: A cartridge for ligating clips includes compartments formed of partitions lying in spaced parallel planes and a stringer spanning between the partitions. The legs of a clip are joined at a hinge which is seated over the stringer. The stringer comprises a substantially cylindrical body and a depending narrow support flange. Opposed faces of adjacent partitions include areas of reduced thickness spaced apart a distance sufficient to permit limited pivotal movement of the clip about the stringer. An abutment edge of the partition face provides a stop which is engaged by bosses at the ends of the clip legs to limit pivotal movement of the clip legs and prevent ribs of the clip from engaging the stringer.