Abstract: A surgical instrument that includes jaw members, at least one of which may be moved to closed positions relative to the other jaw member upon actuation of a closure actuator. Actuation of the closure actuator causes an axially moveable closure member to apply closure motions to at least one of the jaw members. In at least one form, the closure actuator includes a first actuator portion that is configured to move through a first range of axial travel upon actuation of the closure actuator. A second actuator portion interfaces with the axially movable closure member such that upon actuation of said closure actuator, the second actuator portion moves the axially movable closure member through a second range of axial travel that is greater than the first range of axial travel.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to linear surgical staplers for joining tissue layers comprising a disposable cartridge installed in a first jaw connected to an opposing second jaw, said cartridge containing a plurality of deployable staples in arrays separated by a tissue resection slot and a plurality of resorbable medicant-releasing microneedles, said microneedles comprising elongated rods having a sharp tissue-penetrating distal end and a proximal end; said microneedles are releasably disposed on or within a tissue-facing surface of the cartridge, wherein the proximal end of the microneedles is supported on the cartridge. The present invention is also directed to methods of use of such stapler assembly devices.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises a body, a shaft assembly, an end effector, and an articulation joint. The end effector is operable to manipulate (e.g., staple) tissue. The articulation joint couples the end effector with the shaft assembly and permits the end effector to deflect away from the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly. The articulation joint comprises a locking assembly, which is operable to selectively lock the angular position of the end effector relative to the longitudinal axis. The locking assembly comprises a first locking member and a second locking member. The first locking member is unitarily secured to the end effector. The second locking member is movable along a first axis to selectively engage the first locking member to thereby selectively lock the angular position of the end effector relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly. The first axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A device for attaching a sheet-like implant to a target tissue. The device includes a fastener push rod including a first portion, a second portion and a force limiting mechanism operably coupled between the first portion and the second portion. A fastener is carried by the second portion of the fastener push rod. The force limiting mechanism transmits longitudinal movement of the first portion to the second portion while the forces applied to the fastener by the fastener push rod are less than a predetermined value such that longitudinal movement of the first portion of the fastener push rod causes substantially equivalent longitudinal movement of the second portion. The force limiting mechanism allows relative longitudinal motion between the first and second portions while the forces applied to the fastener are equal to or greater than the predetermined value such that the application of undue forces to the fastener is prevented.

Abstract: A robotic actuator assembly is disclosed. The robotic actuator assembly comprises a robotic system. The robotic actuator assembly also comprises a mounting portion selectively engageable with a drive assembly, an end effector, and an elongate shaft assembly. The robotic actuator assembly further comprises a transmission operably supported by the mounting portion. The transmission is configured to operably interface with the rotatable drive element of the drive assembly to receive a rotary output motion from the drive assembly.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an outer housing shell defining a cavity, the outer housing shell defining an upper outer housing half and a lower outer housing half, wherein the upper outer housing half defines a longitudinal axis and an instrument module selectively insertable into the cavity of the outer housing shell. The instrument module includes an inner housing shell, at least one motor disposed within the inner housing shell, a control board being in electrical communication with the at least one motor and an energy source being in electrical communication with the at least one motor and the control board. The instrument module is inserted into the cavity of the outer housing shell in such a manner that the operative axis of the at least one motor is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the upper outer housing half.

Abstract: An end effector includes a first jaw, a second jaw, and a cartridge. The first cartridge includes a sled and the second jaw includes an anvil. The first and second jaws are moveable relative to one another. The cartridge is disposed on the first jaw and has a plurality of staples. The sled is configured to engage each staple to the plurality of staples to eject the plurality of staples from the cartridge as the sled is longitudinally translated through the cartridge. A loading unit is also disclosed including an elongated body and an end effector that is articulable relative to the end effector. The end effector and the elongated body of the loading unit are configured to pass or fit through a 5 mm opening.

Abstract: Circular stapling instruments and anvil assemblies. The anvil assemblies may have collapsible anvil support members that may be inserted through an opening in a patient and then expanded to be attached to an anvil plate assembly that has a staple-forming surface thereon. The anvil support member is attachable to the anvil plate assembly in such a way that when the anvil assembly is coupled to the stapling head of a circular stapler, the staple-forming surface is in substantial registry with the staples supported in the stapling head. A variety of different anvil support members and anvil plate assemblies are disclosed.

Abstract: A surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument includes: a handle assembly; a jaw assembly comprising a staple cartridge containing a plurality of staples and an anvil to form the plurality of staples upon firing; a drive assembly at least partially located within the handle and connected to the jaw assembly and the lockout mechanism; a motor disposed within the handle assembly and operatively coupled to the drive assembly; and a controller operatively coupled to the motor, the controller configured to control supply of electrical current to the motor and to monitor a current draw of the motor, wherein the controller is further configured to terminate the supply of electrical current to the motor in response to a rate of change of the current draw indicative of a mechanical limit of at least one of the jaw assembly, the drive assembly, or the motor.

Abstract: A surgical instrument that comprises a housing, an elongate shaft configured for operable attachment to a surgical end effector, and a selectively lockable rotation system is disclosed. The selectively lockable rotation system comprises a mounting member coupled to the elongate shaft and being rotatably supported on the housing for selective rotation relative to the housing about a longitudinal axis defined by the elongate shaft. The selectively lockable rotation system further comprises a switch member supported for selective longitudinal movement relative to the housing and the mounting member between an unlocked position wherein the mounting member is freely rotatable relative to the housing and a locked position wherein a locking formation on a distal end of the switch member is in retaining engagement with the mounting member to prevent the mounting member and the elongate shaft from rotating relative to the housing.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surgical device, comprising: a jaw assembly defining a first longitudinal axis and including a first jaw and a second jaw moveable relative to the first jaw; an elongated body defining a second longitudinal axis and coupled to a proximal end of the jaw assembly, wherein the jaw assembly is configured to articulate about an articulation axis transverse to the second longitudinal axis relative to the elongated body; a handle assembly coupled to a proximal end of the elongated body and comprising at least one motor mechanically coupled to the jaw assembly; and a control assembly coupled to the handle assembly, the control assembly including a first control button, a second control button, a first rocker device disposed about the first control button and configured to rotate thereabout, and a second rocker device disposed about the second control button and configured to rotate thereabout.

Abstract: A surgical device including an end effector that is configured and adapted to receive an interchangeable tip is disclosed. Also disclosed are several interchangeable tips that are configured and adapted for different surgical procedures. The interchangeable tips facilitate the performance of different surgical procedures while using the same device.

Abstract: An apparatus includes an end effector, a shaft assembly including a translating drive member, and a drive assembly. The end effector includes a distally advancing cutting member and staple driver. The translating drive member is operable to actuate the end effector. The drive assembly is in communication with the translating drive member and includes a motor, a rotary drive member, a first link, and at least one toggle link. The rotary drive member is in communication with the motor. The first link is in communication with the rotary drive member. The at least one toggle link is in communication with the first link and the translating drive member. The rotary drive member is operable to convey linear motion to the first link. The first link is able to convey linear motion to the translating drive member.

Abstract: Adjunct material is provided that has multiple reservoirs formed therein and releasably carrying a plurality of vessels that each retain at least one medicant. An implantable adjunct has at least one bioabsorbable polymer configured to maintain the vessels within a reservoir. Disruption of the at least one bioabsorbable polymer allows release of the vessels from at least one of the reservoirs. A rate of the vessels' release can be controlled by a degradation rate of the at least one bioabsorbable polymer. The released vessels are, in turn, disrupted to thereby cause at least one medicant disposed therein to release and thus provide a desired effect on tissue in-growth.

Abstract: Apparatus for generating, applying and maintaining compression to a site in a human or animal body, the apparatus comprising: a staple comprising: a bridge configured to be elastically bendable; a first leg connected to the bridge by a first hinge region configured to be elastically bendable; and a second leg connected to the bridge by a second hinge region configured to be elastically bendable; wherein the first hinge region comprises a first hole configured to mate with a first element of a delivery device and the second hinge region comprises a second hole configured to mate with a second element of a delivery device; and wherein the first and second legs are angled toward one another when they are in an unstrained state; whereby, when the staple is mounted to a delivery device so that the first hole of the first hinge region mates with a first element of a delivery device and the second hole of the second hinge region mates with a second element of a delivery device, and when the delivery device applies a

Abstract: A motor driven surgical instrument that includes a surgical end effector configured to perform at least one surgical procedure in response to firing motions applied thereto from a firing system. The surgical instrument further includes an articulation system that is configured to facilitate articulation of the end effector relative to an elongated tool axis. The instrument further includes a coupler assembly configured to enable the motor to selectively power the firing system and the articulation system.

Abstract: A surgical instrument can comprise a handle, a shaft assembly, a first sensor configured to detect a condition of the surgical instrument, and a second sensor configured to detect the condition of the surgical instrument. The surgical instrument can further comprise a processor, wherein the first sensor and the second sensor are in signal communication with the processor, wherein the processor receives a first signal from the first sensor, wherein the processor receives a second signal from the second sensor, wherein the processor is configured to utilize the first signal and the second signal to determine the condition, and wherein the processor is configured to communicate instructions to the surgical instrument in view of the condition.

Abstract: A surgical instrument and method of controlling the surgical instrument are disclosed. The surgical instrument includes a housing and an elongated shaft that extends distally from the housing and defines a first longitudinal axis. The surgical instrument also includes a firing rod disposed in the elongated shaft and a drive mechanism disposed at least partially within the housing. The drive mechanism mechanically cooperates with the firing rod to move the firing rod. A sensor senses a parameter of light reflected from the surface of the firing rod, which includes markings that change the reflectivity of the firing rod. The measurement unit determines a parameter of the motion of the firing rod, such as the position and speed of the firing rod, based on the sensed parameter of the light reflected from the surface of the firing rod.

Abstract: Devices and methods for forming an anastomosis between two body lumens are described herein. In one embodiment, an anastomosis can be formed by transecting a body lumen using a linear surgical stapler that delivers a plurality of sealing adjuncts in combination with a plurality of surgical staples along a staple line, where the plurality of sealing adjuncts are coupled to one another by a suture. A circular surgical stapler can be used to create an anastomosis with a second body lumen across the staple line. Before actuating the circular stapler, the proximal and distal ends of the staple line can be drawn into a central lumen of the circular stapler using the suture extending between the plurality of sealing adjuncts such that the staple line is resected when the circular stapler is actuated.

Abstract: A method of performing a bariatric procedure through a natural body orifice is disclosed. The method comprises the step of providing a surgical instrument, comprising a handle portion, an elongated portion extending distally from the handle portion, and an end effector disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongated portion. The method also comprises the steps of inserting the surgical instrument through a natural body orifice of a patient such that the end effector is adjacent a portion of the patient's stomach, and using the surgical instrument to perform a surgical task.

Abstract: A surgical stapling assembly that comprises an end effector, a staple cartridge, a plurality of staples, a shaft assembly, a housing, a rotary motion actuator, a first actuation system configured to cause the end effector to perform a first function, and a second actuation system configured to cause the end effector to perform a second function is disclosed. The surgical stapling assembly further comprises a selector arrangement transitionable between a first orientation and a second orientation. The rotary motion actuator is configured to operably interface with the first actuation system in the first orientation to cause the end effector to perform the first function. The rotary motion actuator is configured to operably interface with the second actuation system to cause the end effector to perform the second function in the second orientation.

Abstract: An electrosurgical device includes a body, an end effector, a cutting member, and a shaft. The end effector comprises a pair of jaws and at least one electrode that is operable to deliver RF energy to tissue clamped between the jaws. The cutting member is operable to cut tissue clamped between the jaws. The shaft includes an articulation section that is operable to selectively position the end effector at non-parallel positions relative to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The body includes a controller operable to selectively actuate the articulation section. The controller may include a rotary knob, a pivoting knob, or a pivoting fin, among other things. An electrical coupling may contact a conductive moving member along at least two axes. A resiliently biased lever may assist a trigger in returning from an actuated position to a home position.

Abstract: A surgical fastening apparatus includes a fastener retaining frame having a first annular portion having a plurality of retainers circumferentially disposed thereon and a second annular portion having a plurality of circumferentially arranged perforations. The fastener retaining frame is detachably secured to a supporting structure. After the plurality of surgical fasteners has been mated with the plurality of retainers, an annular blade severs the perforations.

Abstract: A surgical stapling system for treating the tissue of a patient is provided. Various embodiments of the surgical stapling system include a handle including a rotary motion generator, a shaft extending from the handle, and a disposable loading unit attachable to the shaft. The disposable loading unit includes a cartridge body including a distal end, staples removably stored in the cartridge body, and a firing system. The firing system includes a cutting portion configured to cut the tissue. The disposable loading unit includes a lockout configured to block the firing system from moving toward the distal end. The surgical stapling system includes an actuation system configured to regulate a force applied to the firing system.

Abstract: A surgical stapling system for treating the tissue of a patient is provided. Various embodiments of the surgical stapling system include a handle including a rotary motion generator, a shaft extending from the handle, and a disposable loading unit attachable to the shaft. The disposable loading unit includes a cartridge body including a distal end, staples removably stored in the cartridge body, and a firing system, wherein the firing system includes a cutting portion configured to cut the tissue. The surgical stapling system includes an actuation system configured to regulate a firing force applied to the firing system by the rotary motion generator.

Abstract: A surgical device including a first jaw and a second jaw is presented. The surgical device also includes a biasing element that biases the distal end of the first jaw towards the distal end of the second jaw. The device also includes a first driver disposed in the second jaw and coupled to the first jaw. The first driver is configured to cause separation of the first jaw and the second jaw. The device further includes at least one of a cutting element and a stapling element disposed within the second jaw, preferably a blade rotatably mounted on a wedge. A second driver is configured to move the cutting element and/or the stapling element proximally from a distal end toward the proximal end of the second jaw to at least one of cut and staple a section of tissue disposed between the first and second jaws.

Abstract: A staple comprising: a bridge configured to be elastically stretchable; a first leg connected to said bridge and configured to be elastically bendable; and a second leg connected to said bridge and configured to be elastically bendable; said first and second legs being connected to said bridge so that they are angled toward one another when they are in an unstrained state; such that when said bridge is elastically strained into an elongated condition, and said first and second legs are elastically strained so that they extend substantially parallel to one another, and said first and second legs are disposed in appropriate holes on opposing sides of a fracture line, and when the strain on said staple is thereafter released, compression will be provided across the fracture line by both said bridge and said first and second legs.

Abstract: An anvil assembly suitable for trans-oral delivery is provided. The anvil assembly includes a housing configured to receive a guide suture that is severed during a stapling procedure. An anvil delivery assembly including the anvil assembly and a suture guide assembly secured to the anvil assembly is also provided.

Abstract: A circumcision stapler comprises three parts: an upper stapler, a lower stapler and a rivet fastening and regulating member, wherein an outer knife, an inner knife anti-skidding groove, an anti-skidding bulge, a frenum protecting part and a plurality of rivet holes with same sizes are arranged on the upper stapler; an inner knife, an outer knife anti-skidding groove, an anti-skidding bulge, a frenum protecting part and a plurality of rivet holes with same sizes, and a rivet fastening column are arranged on the lower stapler.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shell having a housing and a shaft. The shell including first and second shell components configured to engage one another to form the shell, each of which is monolithically formed to include a housing portion and a shaft portion. Upon engagement of the first and second shell components with one another, the housing portions cooperate to form the housing of the shell while the shaft portions cooperate to form the shaft of the shell. An end effector assembly is operably coupled to the shaft at a distal end of the shaft. A handle assembly is operably coupled to the housing. A drive assembly disposed within the shell is operably coupled between the handle assembly and the end effector assembly such that actuation of the handle assembly manipulates the end effector assembly.

Abstract: Medical devices robotically manipulated by a medical robotic system for performing a medical procedure on a patient are bundled together as a bundled unit and inserted into the patient through a single entry port. Bracing of the bundled unit at a surgical site is performed by extending a suction surface disposed at a distal end of the bundled unit towards a bracing surface at the surgical site and applying a suction force between the suction surface and the bracing surface. The suction surface is ring-shaped with holes distributed about the ring so that controllably extendable and retractable tubes coupled at distal ends to the holes provide suction to the suction surface when coupled at proximal ends to a vacuum source.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to surgical fastener applying apparatus and the application of variable compression to tissue. More specifically, the presently disclosed surgical fastener applying apparatus act to limit the flow of blood through tissue immediately adjacent a cut-line formed therein to effectuate hemostasis, while maximizing the flow of blood through tissue more removed from the cut-line to limit unnecessary necrosis. In one embodiment, a surgical fastener applying apparatus is disclosed having a tool assembly coupled to a distal end thereof with first and second jaws respectively including an anvil and a surgical fastener cartridge. The surgical fastener cartridge includes, among other things, angled pushers that engage surgical fasteners of varying lengths.

Abstract: A surgical instrument system is disclosed. The surgical instrument system can include a handle and a plurality of shafts which can be selectively assembled to the handle. Each shaft can include an end effector, a drive system, and a system of sensors which can direct the operation of the handle during use.

Abstract: A shaft assembly for a surgical instrument that includes a movable drive member. In at least one form, the surgical instrument includes a spine assembly that is couplable to the surgical instrument and has a surgical end effector coupled thereto by an articulation joint. The shaft assembly in one form includes a proximal firing member and an intermediate firing member that is coupled to a distal firing member. The distal firing member is configured for selective travel through the surgical end effector. At least one articulation driver is coupled to the surgical end effector to apply articulation motions thereto. A clutch assembly interfaces with the primary and intermediate firing members and the articulation driver such that when in an articulation orientation, movement of the drive member results in movement of the articulation driver and when in a firing orientation, movement of the drive member results in movement of the intermediate and distal firing members.

Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a tool assembly, at least one surgical buttress, and a resilient, porous material. The tool assembly includes a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly pivotably coupled to the cartridge assembly. The cartridge assembly includes a first tissue facing surface defining staple retaining slots. The anvil assembly includes a second tissue facing surface defining staple pockets for forming staples expelled from the staple retaining slots of the cartridge assembly. The at least one surgical buttress is releasably disposed on at least one of the first and second tissue facing surfaces. The resilient, porous material is releasably disposable between the first and second tissue facing surfaces and in contact with the at least one surgical buttress. The resilient, porous material is configured to expel a liquid therefrom upon compression thereof by an approximation of the cartridge assembly and the anvil assembly.

Abstract: A two-part tissue thickness compensator assembly can include a first tissue thickness compensator configured to be positioned relative to an anvil of a surgical stapler, a second tissue thickness compensator configured to be positioned relative to a staple cartridge of the surgical stapler, and a hinge connecting the first tissue thickness compensator to the second tissue thickness compensator. The first and/or second tissue thickness compensators may include additional engagement features, such as a raised ridge that engages a slot in the anvil and/or the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, the first and/or second tissue thickness compensators may include an encasement that contains a suitable biologic agent. An end effector assembly may be provided for attachment to a surgical instrument that includes, for example, a staple cartridge, an anvil, a first tissue thickness compensator positioned on the anvil, and a second tissue thickness compensator positioned on the staple cartridge.

Abstract: A retainer for assembling tissue thickness compensators to a surgical stapler can comprise a grip, a first surface for supporting a first tissue thickness compensator, a second surface for supporting a second tissue thickness compensator, and clips for aligning and attaching the retainer to the surgical stapler. The clips may align and attach the retainer to a staple cartridge of the surgical instrument. The clips may align the retainer with an anvil of the surgical instrument. An insertion tool may be used in combination with the retainer to insert the retainer into the surgical stapler and to push the tissue thickness compensators against the anvil and/or the staple cartridge of the surgical instrument.

Abstract: An introducer for being fitted with a circular stapler, is a flexible plastic member in a whole shape of conical with an inner cavity; the introducer has a proximal end and a distal end, outer diameter of the introducer is gradually increased from the distal end to the proximal end and a maximum outer diameter of the proximal end is less than or equal to a maximum outer diameter of a staple cartridge assembly; when pulled by an external force, the plastic member may be unwound spirally and finally forms a strip body capable of being disengaged from the circular stapler. The introducer provided by the present disclosure has the advantages that: as the maximum outer diameter of the introducer is approximately equal to the maximum outer diameter of the staple cartridge assembly, the process of introducing can be achieved without bad influence resulting from increasing the outer diameter of the circular stapler.

Abstract: Jaw assemblies for a surgical stapler are provided. The jaw assemblies comprise a first jaw having a first clamping surface and a plurality of staples disposed therein and second jaw assembly having a second clamping surface. The jaw assemblies can be actuated from a closed configuration in which the first clamping surface contacts or is adjacent to the second clamping surface to an open configuration in which the second jaw is pivoted away from the first jaw to a stapling position in which the second clamping surface is parallel to the first clamping surface and spaced apart from the first clamping surface. A pivoting link or sliding pivot joint can couple the second jaw to the first jaw to facilitate motion between the closed position, the open position, and the stapling position.

Abstract: A surgical instrument including a handle portion, a body portion, an articulating tool assembly and a locking assembly is disclosed. The handle portion includes a movable handle. The body portion extends distally from the handle portion and defines a first longitudinal axis. The articulating tool assembly defines a second longitudinal axis and is movable from a first position where the second longitudinal axis is substantially aligned with the first longitudinal axis to at least a second position where the second longitudinal axis is at an angle to the first longitudinal axis. The locking assembly includes a member that is advanceable distally with respect to the body portion. The member engages the articulating tool assembly upon manipulation of the movable handle to move an anvil and a cartridge assembly in approximation with one another to help maintain the articulating tool assembly in its first position.

Abstract: A surgical instrument including a handle portion, a body portion, a movable handle, a tool assembly, a drive beam and a closure apparatus is disclosed. At least one of the closure apparatus and a contact surface of the tool assembly include a plastic surface. The body portion extends distally from the handle portion. The movable handle is located on the handle portion and is in mechanical cooperation with a drive member. The tool assembly includes an anvil, a cartridge assembly and a contact surface. The drive beam includes a proximal engagement portion and is configured to engage a portion of the drive member. The closure apparatus is configured to engage the contact surface of the tool assembly. At least a partial actuation of the movable handle moves the closure apparatus distally into engagement with the contact surface to approximate the anvil and the cartridge assembly.

Abstract: A coupling assembly selectively interconnects a surgical device with an adapter assembly. The adapter assembly is configured for connection with a surgical attachment. The coupling assembly includes a first connector, a second connector and an outer tube. The first connector is configured for mating engagement with a surgical device. The second connector is configured for mating engagement with an adapter assembly. The outer tube extends between and has a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis therebetween. The first end of the outer tube supports the first connector. The second end of the outer tube supports the second connector. The longitudinal axis of the outer tube extends transversely relative to a longitudinal axis defined by a surgical device.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a body, a shaft, and an end effector. The end effector has a staple cartridge, a lower jaw, an anvil, and a firing beam. The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body and a lower cartridge tray. One or both of the cartridge body or the lower cartridge tray comprises at least one notch. The lower jaw is configured to be coupled with the cartridge body and comprises protrusions. The protrusions of the lower jaw align with the notches of the cartridge body and/or lower cartridge tray when the lower jaw and staple cartridge are coupled. The body comprises a handle portion and a series of actuators capable of closing the anvil on the staple cartridge and driving the firing beam to vertically drive a plurality of staples.

Abstract: A locking shipping wedge is provided and generally includes a body portion having an elongate transverse member projecting from the body portion which is engageable with a drive assembly of a loading unit. A locking mechanism is provided on the body portion of the shipping wedge which is engageable with locking structure movably mounted within the loading unit.

Abstract: Methods and devices for controlling motorized surgical devices are provided. In general, the methods and devices can allow a surgical device to grasp and cut tissue. In some embodiments, the device's motor can begin providing power for grasping and/or cutting tissue in response to an output from the device's sensor, the device can adjust power provided by the motor based on whether the device is clamping tissue or is being fired, the device can adjust an amount of power provided by the motor based on an amount of user-applied force to the device's actuator and/or can control drive direction of the motor based on the amount of the force, the device can maintain a force applied to the device, the device can self-shift the motor, and/or the device can adjust an amount of power provided to the device's end effector based on a degree of the end effector's closure.

Abstract: A stapling system comprising a housing is disclosed. The housing comprises a first rotatable drive disk. The stapling system further comprises a closure member configured to transmit a closing motion from the first rotatable drive disk to an anvil to move the anvil into a closed position. The stapling system further comprises a second rotatable drive disk, wherein the second rotatable drive disk is operable independently of the first rotatable drive disk and is configured to transmit a second operative motion. The stapling system further comprises a firing member configured to perform a firing stroke in response to the second operative motion. The stapling system further comprises a control system that assures that the closing motion and the firing stroke are separate and distinct and that prevents the firing stroke from occurring prior to the completion of the closing motion.

Abstract: A surgical implant comprising a receiver member and deployment member for clamping and sealing tissue of variable thickness, a corresponding applicator tool and surgical system for connecting, sealing, fastening and/or attaching tissue to itself, to other tissue and/or to non-tissue structures, and/or sealing the flow of fluid at and/or between structures such as tissue and vessel structures.

Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument including a handle assembly, an elongated body portion, a shell assembly and an anvil assembly. The elongated body portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis. The shell assembly is disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongated body portion and includes a non-planar, tissue-contacting surface oriented obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis. The anvil assembly includes a non-planar, tissue-contacting surface oriented obliquely with respect to the longitudinal axis. The tissue-contacting surface of the anvil assembly is configured to align with the tissue-contacting surface of the shell assembly when the anvil assembly and shell assembly are in the approximated position.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to devices and methods for suturing tissue. The invention provides methods and devices for suturing by pushing two ends of a suture through tissue from a proximal side of the tissue and fastening the two ends together on a distal side of the tissue through one operation of a trigger.

Abstract: A medical tool comprising an electromechanical driver and a surgical instrument attachment for use in invasive surgery, including a handle coupled to a flexible sheath which is in turn coupled to a surgical attachment. The handle of the driver includes the electromechanical driver and at least one processor element which controls the actions of the electromechanical driver, and therefore the application elements of the surgical attachment, based on information relayed between the processor element and remotely activatable sensor assemblies in the surgical instrument attachment.