With Cutting Means Patents (Class 227/180.1)
  • Publication number: 20130334286
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device that comprises an end effector. According to various embodiments, the end effector comprises a circular anvil having a staple forming surface and a plurality of staples facing the staple forming surface of the anvil. The end effector also comprises a staple driver assembly comprising a plurality of staple drivers. Each staple driver supports one of the plurality of staples and is configured such that, when the staple driver assembly is actuated, each staple driver drives the staple into the staple forming surface of the anvil. A first quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a first height and a second quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a second height, wherein the first height is less than the second height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130334283
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device that comprises an end effector. According to various embodiments, the end effector comprises a circular anvil having a staple forming surface and a plurality of staples facing the staple forming surface of the anvil. The end effector also comprises a staple driver assembly comprising a plurality of staple drivers. Each staple driver supports one of the plurality of staples and is configured such that, when the staple driver assembly is actuated, each staple driver drives the staple into the staple forming surface of the anvil. A first quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a first height and a second quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a second height, wherein the first height is less than the second height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Enco-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130334288
    Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied without the need to use different sizes of staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130334285
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device that comprises an end effector. According to various embodiments, the end effector comprises a circular anvil having a staple forming surface and a plurality of staples facing the staple forming surface of the anvil. The end effector also comprises a staple driver assembly comprising a plurality of staple drivers. Each staple driver supports one of the plurality of staples and is configured such that, when the staple driver assembly is actuated, each staple driver drives the staple into the staple forming surface of the anvil. A first quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a first height and a second quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a second height, wherein the first height is less than the second height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130334284
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device that comprises an end effector. According to various embodiments, the end effector comprises a circular anvil having a staple forming surface and a plurality of staples facing the staple forming surface of the anvil. The end effector also comprises a staple driver assembly comprising a plurality of staple drivers. Each staple driver supports one of the plurality of staples and is configured such that, when the staple driver assembly is actuated, each staple driver drives the staple into the staple forming surface of the anvil. A first quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a first height and a second quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a second height, wherein the first height is less than the second height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 8608047
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge and an anvil member. The staple cartridge includes a plurality of surgical fasteners disposed in rows of retention slots. The staple cartridge may have an annular or linear configuration of retention slots. The tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge may be tapered or stepped. The anvil member has a tissue contacting surface that includes a number of pockets arranged for substantially aligning with the retention slots. In addition, the tissue contacting surface of the anvil member may complement the tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Henry E. Holsten, Frank J. Viola, Clifford L. Emmons, John W. Beardsley, Russell Heinrich, Nicola Cullinan
  • Publication number: 20130327810
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device that comprises an end effector. According to various embodiments, the end effector comprises a circular anvil having a staple forming surface and a plurality of staples facing the staple forming surface of the anvil. The end effector also comprises a staple driver assembly comprising a plurality of staple drivers. Each staple driver supports one of the plurality of staples and is configured such that, when the staple driver assembly is actuated, each staple driver drives the staple into the staple forming surface of the anvil. A first quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a first height and a second quantity of the plurality of staple drivers has a second height, wherein the first height is less than the second height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130327809
    Abstract: A staple cartridge for use with a stapling device that has an actuator that is selectively actuatable in an axial direction and an anvil portion that is selectively movable between open and closed positions is disclosed. Various embodiments of the present invention include a cartridge body that movably supports first and second staple drivers. The staple drivers each support a staple thereon and serve to drive the staples into forming contact with the anvil upon actuation by the actuator. The various embodiments of the present invention enable the final formed heights of the staples to be varied so as to apply various clamping forces and pressures to soft tissue captured within the staples. In at least one embodiment, the staples can include crowns formed thereon which can be utilized to adjust or control the clamping force and/or pressure applied by the staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Michael A. Murray, Christopher J. Hess, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Jerome R. Morgan, Steven G. Hall
  • Patent number: 8602288
    Abstract: A surgical tool for use with a robotic system includes an end effector comprising at least one component portion selectively movable between first and second positions and a shaft including an axially movable portion in operable communication with the at least one selectively movable component portion and a rotatably movable portion in operable engagement with the axially movable portion. An initial rotation of the rotatably movable portion causes the axially movable portion to move the selectively movable component portion from the first position into an intermediate position at a first rate. A subsequent rotation of the rotatably movable portion in a same direction causes the axially movable portion to move the selectively movable component portion from the intermediate position to the second position at a second rate different from the first rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery. Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Gary W. Knight
  • Patent number: 8596515
    Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument includes a handle assembly, an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle assembly, and a tool assembly coupled to a distal end of the elongate shaft. The tool assembly includes a cartridge assembly including a plurality of surgical staples each including a code embedded portion and a first sensor for detecting the position of the surgical staples prior to and during a formation of the staples. The tool assembly further includes an anvil assembly including a second sensor that detects the position of the surgical staples after the formation of the surgical staples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Gregory Okoniewski
  • Patent number: 8596513
    Abstract: A tool assembly for a surgical stapling device includes a channel member for supporting a staple cartridge therein and an anvil to deform a plurality of staples ejected from the staple cartridge thereagainst. The tool assembly also includes a sled which is movable to force the staples from the cartridge against the anvil to staple tissue disposed between the anvil and the staple cartridge. A dynamic clamping member is included which has a pin which movably engages the anvil and a flange which movably engages the channel assembly. The dynamic clamping member is mounted to and movable with the sled. The pin and the flange of the dynamic clamping member cooperating to oppose the forces associated with clamping and stapling tissue and also to maintain a substantially uniform gap between the anvil and the staple cartridge during stapling of the tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Lee Ann Olson, Philip Roy, John W. Beardsley, Ralph Stearns, David C. Racenet, Clifford L. Emmons
  • Publication number: 20130313306
    Abstract: An end effector for use with a surgical instrument includes a plurality of staples, an agent reservoir comprising a medical agent, a dispensing passage configured to convey the medical agent from the agent reservoir to tissue, and a firing system which includes a cutting member, a movable member, and a firing member, wherein the firing system is configured to cooperatively move the movable member and the firing member to simultaneously fire the plurality of staples and dispense at least a portion of the medical agent near the cutting member owing to the advancement of the firing member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Leslie M. Fugikawa
  • Publication number: 20130313305
    Abstract: A surgical fastener applying apparatus includes a cartridge-receiving assembly and a cartridge assembly releasably engagable therewith. The cartridge assembly includes a housing and a knife assembly having a knife translatable from an initial position to a deployed position and a knife guard pivotable between a storage position, wherein the knife guard substantially encloses the knife member, and a use position, wherein the knife member is exposed for translation through the housing. The knife guard engages to the knife member such that translation of the knife member rotates the guard to the use position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Paul A. Scirica, Eric Taylor, Peter Hathaway, Matthew J. Chowaniec
  • Patent number: 8590762
    Abstract: A staple cartridge including first and second staple cavities therein where the first cavity can define a first axis and the second cavity can define a second axis. In various embodiments, the first axis can be transverse to the second axis. In one embodiment, the first and second cavities can extend in directions which are not parallel to each other. In various embodiments, staples deployed from such first and second staple cavities can produce a staple pattern which can better constrict blood vessels in soft tissue and reduce blood flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher J. Hess, Lawrence E. Wells, Jr., William B. Weisenburgh, II
  • Patent number: 8590764
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing endoluminal anastomosis of an organ comprises an operative head including an endoscope receiving lumen for slidably receiving a flexible endoscope therein, the operative head including an annular tissue receiving space extending around a circumference of a distal end thereof and a stapling mechanism for firing staples around an entire circumference of the tissue receiving space and a tissue gripping mechanism for drawing into the tissue receiving space a portion of tissue extending around an entire circumference of the organ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell Hartwick, Malka Berndt, George Nunez
  • Publication number: 20130299557
    Abstract: A surgical stapling device including a handle assembly, an endoscopic portion and an end effector is disclosed. The endoscopic portion extends distally from the handle assembly and defines a first longitudinal axis. The end effector defines a second longitudinal axis and includes an anvil assembly and a cartridge assembly. The anvil assembly is supported adjacent a distal end of the endoscopic portion and includes a dissecting tip extending therefrom. The cartridge assembly is pivotably mounted adjacent the distal end of the endoscopic portion. The cartridge assembly is mounted for pivotal movement in relation to the anvil assembly between open and approximated positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventors: Todd Demmy, Lee Ann Olson
  • Patent number: 8579178
    Abstract: A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge and an anvil member. The staple cartridge includes a plurality of surgical fasteners disposed in rows of retention slots. The staple cartridge may have an annular or linear configuration of retention slots. The tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge may be tapered or stepped. The anvil member has a tissue contacting surface that includes a number of pockets arranged for substantially aligning with the retention slots. In addition, the tissue contacting surface of the anvil member may complement the tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Henry E. Holsten, Frank J. Viola, Clifford L. Emmons, John W. Beardsley, Russell Heinrich, Nicola Cullinan
  • Publication number: 20130292452
    Abstract: A cutting and stapling device for use as an attachment to an electromechanical device driver comprises an upper jaw and a lower jaw which separate and close against one another in a continuously parallel alignment. The upper jaw includes a series of staple guides corresponding to one or more staples in a removable staple tray disposed within a lower jaw, whereby a blade and wedge having a threaded bore travel upon a matching threaded shaft in a channel disposed in the lower jaw below the staple tray, such that rotation of the threaded shaft causes movement of the wedge through the channel while a sloped surface of the wedge contacts the staples to push the staples against the staples guides, closing the staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Inventor: Michael P. Whitman
  • Patent number: 8573464
    Abstract: A stapling cartridge assembly for a circular stapling instrument includes a casing, a staple driver, and a blade. The staple driver is receivable within the casing and configured to move within the casing from a pre-fired position to a fired position. The blade is attachable to the staple driver. The blade includes a cutting edge and a breakaway washer attachment member for fixedly attaching to a breakaway washer when the staple driver is moved from the pre-fired position to the fired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Anil K. Nalagatla, Michael L. Kruszynski, Thomas E. Adams
  • Patent number: 8573465
    Abstract: A self contained motor-powered disposable loading unit for use with a robotic system configured to generate control systems therefor. The disposable loading unit may contain a battery that is retained in a disconnected position when the disposable loading unit is not in use and is moved to a connected position when the disposable loading unit is coupled to the robotic system to permit the motor to be selectively powered thereby. Indicators may be supported on the disposable loading unit to indicate when the axial drive assembly thereof is in a starting position and an ending position. Another indicator may be provided to indicate when the anvil assembly is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 8573459
    Abstract: An OTC surgical device includes a handle having therein a compression controller and thereat an end effector, which has an electrically controlled tissue-compressor coupled to the controller and powered thereby to selectively control tissue compression. A mechanical binary-output electrical switch is disposed in-line with the compressor to place a compressing force directed upon the compressed tissue proportionally upon the switch. The switch has two switching states initiated and changed only by mechanical movement. The switch includes a biasing device retaining the switch in a first switching state until a force imparted thereupon overcomes the bias force to change to the second switching state. A switching-state-status output provides information identifying a current state and communicates with the compression controller to selectively control compression of tissue based upon the information. With appropriate feedback, the controller can keep the tissue at OTC while the surgical procedure is carried out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc
    Inventors: Kevin W. Smith, Thomas Bales, Derek Dee Deville, Carlos Rivera, Matthew A. Palmer
  • Publication number: 20130277410
    Abstract: A surgical stapling and cutting device is constructed with a knife safety lockout element to prevent a knife element from cutting tissue if staples cannot be applied first to the tissue prior to being cut. The surgical stapling and cutting device comprises of a staple holder for holding a staple cartridge, an anvil movably coupled to the staple holder for opposing and deforming staples, a knife safety lockout element for blocking a knife element from being deployed, and a safety spring element for activating or biasing the knife safety lockout element into an active state to block the knife element from being deployed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Cardica, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony J. Fernandez, Bryan D. Knodel, Jinhoon Park
  • Patent number: 8561874
    Abstract: A surgical instrument including a handle portion, a body portion, an articulating tool assembly and at least one coupling member is disclosed. 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 has a proximal end including at least one recess therein. The articulating tool assembly is securable to a distal end of the body portion and is movable from a first position where the first and second longitudinal axes are substantially aligned to at least a second position where the first and second longitudinal axes are at an angle. The coupling member has at least one spring arm and is securable to the body portion. At least a portion of the spring arm is receivable in the recess of the articulating tool assembly to releasably retain the articulating tool assembly in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Paul Scirica
  • Publication number: 20130264372
    Abstract: A linear cutting stapler comprises: an upper jaw and a lower jaw (1) capable of closing or opening relative to each other. A staple cartridge (2) is disposed at a distal end of the lower jaw (1). The lower jaw (1) has a U shape, in which a striker (5) and a pushing rod are slidably disposed. The linear cutting stapler further comprises a safety mechanism. The safety mechanism comprises a safety piece (4), and an opening (52) opened on the striker (5) and for receiving the safety piece. The installation or removal of the staple cartridge (2) may drive the safety piece (4) to move in a direction perpendicular to the axis of the lower jaw (1), so that the safety piece (4) is disengaged from or engaged with the opening (52) of the striker (5). The linear cutting stapler has a simple structure, can be easily fabricated, and is safe and reliable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2011
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Applicant: TOUCHSTONE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL SCIENCE CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wangdong Chen, Tuo Shu, Yongwang Pei
  • Publication number: 20130256384
    Abstract: A surgical device is described herein that can be used to fire different types and sizes of disposable loading units. In a preferred embodiment, the device applies parallel rows of surgical fasteners to body tissue and concomitantly forms an incision between the rows of staples during an endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical procedure. The device can be utilized with disposable loading units configured to apply linear rows of staples measuring from about 15 mm in length to about 60 mm in length and can be used to fire disposable loading units containing surgical clips and individual staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Dominick L. Mastri, Frank J. Viola, Thomas W. Alesi, JR., Robert J. Geiste, Jon Wilson
  • Publication number: 20130256383
    Abstract: An anvil-attachable layer for use with a surgical stapler, or fastening instrument, wherein a proximal end portion of the layer is attached to a staple cartridge assembly, for example. The layer may be attached to the staple cartridge assembly by an adhesive, weld, or a staple-cartridge-based clamp, wherein the attachment is weak enough to allow the layer to pull away from the staple cartridge assembly with stapled tissue. Alternatively, the layer can include two or more lateral slits that define a connector region that can be cut by a knife of a surgical stapler to release the layer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.
    Inventors: Taylor W. Aronhalt, Bret W. Smith, Katherine J. Schmid, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Cortney E. Henderson, Charles J. Scheib, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130261661
    Abstract: A stapling and cutting system for use by a physician in the cutting and stapling together of layers of body tissue. The system includes first and second handles that are pivotally coupled together at a pivot joint located between proximate and distal ends of each of handles. First and second jaws are coupled together and movable between an open and closed position. Mounted on a distal end of the first jaw for positioning on one side of the layers of tissue is a disposable staple cartridge, which includes a plurality of staples. An anvil, mounted on the distal end of the second jaw, is positioned on opposing side of the tissue to be stapled. To manipulate the jaws, a closure mechanism couples the first and second handles to the first and second jaws. The closure mechanism maintains the anvil and the staple cartridge substantially parallel to and opposite from one another when the first and second jaws are in the open position and moved to the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventor: Hadi A. Piraka
  • Publication number: 20130256382
    Abstract: A cutting blade for a surgical cutting and stapling instrument is disclosed therein. The cutting blade can include one or more features to direct or displace substances released from within the tissue thickness compensators used with the surgical instrument. The cutting blade may include a textured surface that can cause substances from the tissue thickness compensator to spread across the blade surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Swayze, Joshua R. Uth, Richard L. Leimbach, John L. Stammen, Samuel P. Tidwell, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 8544712
    Abstract: Surgical stapling apparatus are disclosed including an anvil having a working surface with a shaped topography; and a staple cartridge, in juxtaposition with the anvil. The staple cartridge includes a working surface with shaped topography which is complementary to the shaped topography of the working surface of the shaped anvil. When the anvil and the staple cartridge are approximated with or toward one another, at least a portion of the working surface of the anvil cooperates with at least a portion of the working surface of the staple cartridge to enhance alignment of the staple cartridge and the anvil in at least one of a transverse and longitudinal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Bruce K. Jankowski
  • Publication number: 20130248581
    Abstract: Electrically operated surgical instrument, comprising a handle having a power supply; a drive assembly having an electrical motor, a controller electrically connected to the power supply and motor, and a drive part selectively moved by the motor between a fully extended position and a fully retracted position; and a control assembly operably connected to the motor to control a rotation of the motor; an end effector having a tissue-cutting assembly comprising: a blade connected to the drive part to move between opposing compression surfaces over the course of a blade stroke to cut tissue compressed between the compression surfaces, the blade stroke being comprised of the drive part advancing the blade towards the tissue to an extended position and retreating proximally to a retracted position, the control assembly being operable to selectively cause the motor to automatically retreat the drive part to place the blade in the retracted position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin W. Smith, Thomas O. Bales, JR., Derek Dee Deville, Carlos Rivera, Matthew A. Palmer
  • Publication number: 20130248582
    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. The movable handle 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 plurality of layers and at least one layer has 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. At least one of the layers of the drive beam is affixed to an adjacent layer of the drive beam via at least one spot weld.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: Covidien LP
    Inventor: Paul A. Scirica
  • Patent number: 8540133
    Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument and, in addition, a staple cartridge comprising a cutting member positioned therein. The staple cartridge can comprise alignment features configured to align the cutting member of the staple cartridge with a distal end of a drive bar when the staple cartridge is assembled to the surgical stapling instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Bedi, Chester O. Baxter, III
  • Patent number: 8540129
    Abstract: A surgical stapling instrument including an actuator knob which can be moved from one side of the stapling instrument to another side in order to reposition the actuator knob without having to reposition the stapling instrument within a surgical site. A stapling instrument can include a pusher bar, a housing having a first side and a second side, and an actuator knob rotatably mounted to the pusher bar wherein the actuator knob can be configured to be rotated between a first position in which the actuator knob can be moved along the first side of the housing and a second position where the actuator knob can be moved along a second side of the housing. Alternatively, a surgical stapling instrument can comprise one or more actuator knobs which can be operably engaged and disengaged with a pusher bar in order to selectively utilize the actuator knobs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Chester O. Baxter, III, James J. Bedi
  • Patent number: 8540128
    Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a cutting member having a cutting surface, wherein the cutting member is relatively movable with respect to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In at least one embodiment, one of the anvil and the staple cartridge defines a slot which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cutting member and guide the cutting member as it is moved relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In these embodiments, the slot can define a path having linear and/or curved portions. In various embodiments, the path can include a curved portion having a first portion that extends away from the shaft axis and a second portion that extends toward the axis. In one embodiment, the path can include a curved portion defined by an arc corresponding to an angle greater than 90 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Jerome R. Morgan, Stephen J. Balek
  • Patent number: 8540130
    Abstract: A self contained motor-powered disposable loading unit for use with a surgical cutting and stapling apparatus. The disposable loading unit may contain a battery that is retained in a disconnected position when the disposable loading unit is not in use and is moved to a connected position when the disposable loading unit is coupled to the surgical cutting and stapling apparatus to permit the motor to be selectively powered thereby. Indicators may be supported on the disposable loading unit to indicate when the axial drive assembly thereof is in a starting position and an ending position. Another indicator may be provided to indicate when the anvil assembly is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Kyle P. Moore, Frederick E. Shelton, IV, William B. Weisenburgh, II, Jerome R. Morgan, Mark H. Ransick, Eugene L. Timperman
  • Patent number: 8540131
    Abstract: Surgical staple cartridges and methods for manipulating the severed ends of divided tissue. In various forms, the staple cartridge has at least one base material temporarily supported thereon that is oriented to be stapled to a corresponding end of the divided tissue. At least one elongated tether is non-removably affixed to each piece of base material. Once the base material is stapled to the corresponding piece of divided tissue, the clinician may manipulate that pieced of divided tissue by applying manipulation motions to the tether. Corresponding grooves or pockets may be provided on the cartridge body for temporarily supporting the tethers therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Swayze
  • Publication number: 20130240604
    Abstract: An exemplary surgical apparatus for treating tissue may include an anvil; a jaw pivotally connected to the anvil; and a first cartridge detachably connected to the anvil, holding staples of a first size; where a first clamp gap between the anvil and first cartridge is set by the connection between the first cartridge and jaw. An exemplary cartridge for a surgical stapler may include a cartridge housing; a plurality of staples held within the cartridge housing; and a sled slidable within, and retained by, the cartridge housing, including a central platform, at least one wedge connected to the central platform, and a knife rotatable relative to the central platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: Cardica, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan D. Knodel
  • Patent number: 8534528
    Abstract: A surgical instrument having a remotely controllable user interface, and a firing drive configured to generate a rotary firing motion upon a first actuation of the remotely controllable user interface and a rotary refraction motion upon an other actuation of remotely controllable user interface. The instrument is such that when the remotely controllable user interface operates a first drive member, the first actuation advances a cutting member a first distance, wherein, when the remotely controllable user interface operates a second drive member, the other actuation retracts the cutting member a second distance, and wherein the second distance is greater than the first distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Publication number: 20130233909
    Abstract: A surgical fastener applying apparatus having a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a cartridge body having plurality of surgical fasteners disposed therein. The plurality of surgical fasteners include a plurality of first surgical fasteners having a first backspan with a first configuration, and a plurality of second surgical fasteners having a second backspan with a second, different configuration such that the plurality of first surgical fasteners apply a first compressive force to tissue upon formation and the plurality of second surgical fasteners apply a second, different compressive force to tissue upon formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventors: Frank J. Viola, Keith L. Milliman
  • Publication number: 20130228610
    Abstract: A system for stapling tissue comprises a flexible endoscope and an operative head including a pair of opposed, curved tissue clamping jaws sized to pass through an esophagus, the jaws being moveable with respect to one another between an open tissue receiving configuration and a closed tissue clamping configuration, a first one of the curved jaws including a stapling mechanism and a second one of the jaws including a staple forming anvil surface, the stapling mechanism including staple slots through which staples are fired arranged in a row extending from a proximal end of the first jaw to a distal end thereof in combination with a control handle which, when the operative head is in an operative position within one of a patient's stomach and esophagus, remains outside the patient, the control handle including a first actuator for moving the jaws relative to one another and a second actuator for operating the stapling mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: REX MEDICAL, L.P.
    Inventors: James F. McGUCKIN, JR., Peter W.J. HINCHLIFFE
  • Patent number: 8523042
    Abstract: A cartridge for a surgical apparatus includes a housing having a slot configured to accommodate a blade. A plurality of fasteners is configured to be deployed by the housing. A first row of the plurality of fasteners is positioned on a first side of the slot and a second row of the plurality of fasteners is positioned on a second side of the slot. The first row of the plurality of fasteners is the nearest row of fasteners to the slot on the first side of the slot that are deployed by the housing, and the first row of the plurality of fasteners is spaced apart from the slot such that an undamaged tissue margin is formed on a section of tissue during operation of the surgical apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: The General Hospital Corporation
    Inventors: Peter T Masiakos, Andrew Rosenberg, Henning Gaissert
  • Patent number: 8523043
    Abstract: A surgical tool system includes a surgical tool for cutting and stapling tissue and a tactile feedback system integrated onto a handle of the tool that generates relevant feedback in at least the form of haptic effects to the user. The tactile feedback alerts the user of tissue properties, i.e., the type of tissue or other structures located within the jaws of the stapler, whether the quantity or thickness of tissue located within the jaws of the stapler is appropriate for the selected stapler cartridge, whether the proper length of staples has been fired based on the length of tissue located in the jaws, whether a blood vessel is located within the jaws of the stapler, whether the stapling process has successfully sealed the tissue located within the jaws of the stapler, the position of the cutting element, and/or when the stapling procedure or firing cycle is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Ullrich, Ali Modarres, Pedro Gregorio, Cheryl Shimek
  • Patent number: 8517244
    Abstract: In various embodiments, an assembly of a surgical instrument is disclosed. The assembly includes a housing, a cutting member relatively movable with respect to the housing, and an agent cartridge connected to the housing. The agent cartridge houses a medical agent. The assembly is configured to deliver the medical agent proximate a cutting surface of the cutting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick E. Shelton, IV, Joseph C. Hueil, Jerome R. Morgan, Leslie M. Fugikawa
  • Patent number: 8517243
    Abstract: A surgical instrument, such as an endoscopic or laparoscopic instrument. The surgical instrument may comprise an end effector comprising at least one sensor. The surgical instrument may also comprise an electrically conductive shaft having a distal end connected to the end effector wherein the sensor is electrically insulated from the shaft. The surgical instrument may also comprise a handle connected to a proximate end of the shaft. The handle may comprise a control unit electrically coupled to the shaft such that the shaft radiates signals as an antenna from the control unit to the sensor and receives radiated signals from the sensor. Other components electrically coupled to the shaft may also radiate the signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Giordano, Jeffrey S. Swayze, Frederick E. Shelton, IV
  • Patent number: 8517240
    Abstract: A medical device comprising an actuator, an extension portion, and a tissue interaction portion. The extension portion is coupled to the actuator and comprises at least first and second telescoping sections with each telescoping section having (i) at least one extended hook section having a head portion and a neck portion, and (ii) at least one body section being one of coupled and integrated to the at least one extended hook section. The at least one extended hook section of the first telescoping section is operatively coupled to the body section of the second telescoping section. The tissue interaction portion is operatively coupled to the extension portion and comprises at least one of a gripping mechanism, a stapling mechanism, and a cutting mechanism. The actuator is adapted to control at least one of the extension portion and tissue interaction portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Just Right Surgical, LLC
    Inventors: Vincent Mata, Alan Bachman, Richard N. Granger
  • Patent number: 8511533
    Abstract: An assembly for joining tissue is provided and includes an anvil assembly and a body portion juxtaposed with respect to one another along a shaft and arranged so as to be approximated with respect to one another; and an applicator supported on the anvil assembly and configured for retaining a wound treatment material therein and for dispensing the wound treatment material therefrom. A method for joining tissue is provided and includes the steps of dispensing the wound treatment material from the applicator so as to distribute wound treatment material onto at least one of a first tissue section and a second tissue section; and approximating the anvil assembly and the body portion to one another so that the first tissue section and the second tissue section are in contact with one another with the dispensed wound treatment material interposed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: Frank J. Viola, Christopher J. Criscuolo, David Fowler, Michael J. Bettuchi, Danyel J. Tarinelli, Robert Capella, Kevin Sniffin, Ahmad R. Hadba
  • Publication number: 20130200132
    Abstract: A detachable motor-powered surgical instrument. The instrument may include a housing that includes at least one engagement member for removably attaching the housing to an actuator arrangement. A motor is supported within the housing for supplying actuation motions to various portions of a surgical end effector coupled to the housing. The housing may include a contact arrangement that is configured to permit power to be supplied to the motor only when the housing is operably attached to the actuator arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.
    Inventor: ETHICON ENDO-SURGERY, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130200131
    Abstract: A circular stapling instrument including a stapling forming assembly that is actuated independently from actuation of the cutting assembly is provided. The instrument includes a handle assembly, an elongate body extending from the handle assembly, a cartridge assembly mounted on a distal end of the elongate body. The cartridge assembly includes a pusher and a knife assembly. The knife assembly is selectively fixed relative to the pusher.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2012
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: David Racenet, Patrick Mozdzierz, Christopher Penna
  • Patent number: 8499994
    Abstract: A surgical instrument, such as a surgical stapling instrument (1), comprises a tissue manipulating portion (2) which is intended to be introduced in the body of a patient, a handle portion (3) with an actuating mechanism (7) adapted to generate actuating movements for the actuation of the tissue manipulating portion (2) and comprising at least a pair of rotary output members (33; 40) and an actuating transmission device (5, 5?; 6, 6?) connecting the actuating mechanism (7) of the handle portion (3) to the tissue manipulating portion (2) and comprising at least one pair of rotary rods (17, 17?; 19, 19?) for transmitting rotational actuating movements from the pair of rotary output members (33; 40) to the tissue manipulating portion (2). The actuating mechanism (7) comprises synchronization means (31, 32, 32?; 38, 20 39, 39?) which link the movements of the two rotary output members (33; 40) of the pair of rotary output members such that they counter-rotate at substantially the same speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc.
    Inventor: Michele D'Arcangelo
  • Publication number: 20130193192
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a surgical stapling device and a method for joining tissue portions. The surgical stapling device includes a handle assembly and a tubular body portion supported on a distal end of the handle assembly having a staple cartridge assembly containing a plurality of surgical staples in an annular array. An anvil assembly is at a distal end of the stapling device and has a shaft for removably connecting the anvil assembly to the tubular body portion. The anvil assembly and tubular body portion are juxtaposed with respect to one another along the shaft and are arranged so as to be approximated with respect to one another. A support member extends from the tubular body portion towards the anvil assembly and a buttress material is supported by the support member and removably attached to the support member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2012
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Thomas Casasanta, JR., Andrew Miesse, Sally Carter