CN106999183B

CN106999183B - Surgical staple and driver arrangement for a staple cartridge

Info

Publication number: CN106999183B
Application number: CN201580064655.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·L·哈里斯; J·R·摩根; M·S·齐纳; F·E·谢尔顿四世
Original assignee: Ethicon LLC
Current assignee: Ethicon LLC
Priority date: 2014-09-26
Filing date: 2015-09-08
Publication date: 2021-08-10
Anticipated expiration: 2035-09-08
Also published as: AU2015321820A1; JP2017529185A; JP6698638B2; RU2017114363A; MX2017003959A; RU2712860C2; BR112017005976B1; AU2015321820B2; CN106999183A; RU2017114363A3; BR112017005976A2

Abstract

The invention discloses an end effector and a nail bin. The staple cartridge comprises an array of staples, wherein at least one staple is angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. The angled staples provide longitudinal flexibility to the stapled tissue. Additionally, the staple cartridge and/or the end effector are configured to provide a variable degree of compression to tissue. For example, compression of the tissue may be optimized before, during, and/or after suturing.

Description

Surgical staple and driver arrangement for a staple cartridge

Technical Field

The present invention relates to stapling instruments and, in various embodiments, to a surgical stapling instrument for preparing one or more rows of staples.

The stapling instrument can include a pair of cooperating elongated jaw members, wherein each jaw member can be adapted to be inserted into a patient and positioned relative to tissue to be stapled and/or incised. In various embodiments, one of the jaw members can support a staple cartridge having at least two laterally spaced rows of staples housed therein, and the other jaw member can support an anvil having staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the staple cartridge. In general, the stapling instrument can further include a pusher bar and a knife blade that are slidable relative to the jaw members to sequentially eject staples from the staple cartridge via cam surfaces on the pusher bar and/or cam surfaces on a wedge sled that is pushed by the pusher bar. In at least one embodiment, the camming surface can be configured to actuate a plurality of staple drivers carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples to urge the staples against the anvil and form laterally spaced rows of deformed staples in tissue clamped between the jaw members. In at least one embodiment, the blades can follow the cam surface and cut tissue along the path between the rows of staples. An example of such a stapling instrument is disclosed in U.S. patent 7,794,475 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPOSITABLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTING FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME," THE entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

The above discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of every aspect of the present technology in the field of the present invention and should not be taken as negating the scope of the claims.

Drawings

Various features of the embodiments described herein are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. However, various embodiments as to the organization and method of operation, together with advantages thereof, may be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a surgical fastening instrument according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an end effector of the surgical fastening instrument of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the fastener cartridge of the end effector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of an anvil of the end effector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a partial bottom plan view of an anvil according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a partial bottom plan view of an anvil according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of an end effector including a staple cartridge including angularly oriented staples, a set of first multi-staple drivers, and a set of second multi-staple drivers according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of one of the first multi-staple drivers of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8A is a plan view of the first multi-staple driver of FIG. 8;

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the first multi-staple driver of FIG. 8, and further illustrating the staples of FIG. 7 supported by the multi-staple driver;

FIG. 8C is a perspective view of one of the second multi-staple drivers of FIG. 7;

FIG. 8D is a plan view of the second multi-staple driver of FIG. 8C;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the second multi-staple driver of FIG. 8C, and further illustrating the staples of FIG. 7 supported by the multi-staple driver;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a staple cartridge according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of an arrangement of a multi-staple driver and a drive wedge according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of an arrangement of multiple staple drivers and drive wedges according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an arrangement of multiple staple drivers and drive wedges according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a plan view of an arrangement of a single staple driver and drive wedge according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 is a front view of the driving wedge of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of an arrangement of staples and a drive wedge according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of staples shown in an unformed or unfired configuration in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a front view of the nail of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an elevation view of the staples of FIG. 17 in a formed or fired configuration;

FIG. 20 is an elevation view of a staple including an expandable coating shown in an unformed or unfired configuration in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a partial bottom plan view of the staple of FIG. 20 deployed into a patient's tissue;

FIG. 22 is a partial bottom plan view of the staple of FIG. 20 deployed into a patient's tissue, showing the coating in an expanded state;

FIG. 23 illustrates tissue stapled by staples or wires, according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 24 shows tissue stapled by staples and threads, according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 25 illustrates tissue stapled by staples or wires, according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 26 is a front view of a driving wedge and staple according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the drive wedge and staple of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a plan view of the drive wedge and staple of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a circular suturing device;

FIG. 29A is a perspective view of a portion of a stapling head and a fastener cartridge assembly of a circular stapling device;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a portion of a stapling head and another fastener cartridge assembly of a circular stapling device;

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a portion of a stapling head and another fastener cartridge assembly of a circular stapling device;

FIG. 32 illustrates tissue stapled by staple lines wherein at least some of the staples in the staple lines overlap, according to at least one embodiment;

FIG. 33 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple line of FIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a partial plan view of an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge of FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge configured to deploy a staple line in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 36 is a partial plan view of an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is an exploded perspective view of an end effector including a driverless staple cartridge having a sled according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the slider of FIG. 37;

FIG. 38A is a partial plan view of the sled and staples of FIG. 37 illustrating the deployment of the staples;

FIG. 38B is an elevation view of the sled and staples of FIG. 37 illustrating the deployment of the staples;

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the sled of the driverless staple cartridge of FIG. 37 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 39A is a partial plan view of a driverless staple cartridge having angled staples and the sled of FIG. 39 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 39B is a partial perspective view of the sled of FIG. 39 and the staple of FIG. 20 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 40 is a partial perspective view of a sled and staple according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 41 is a plan view of an array of staples according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 42 is a plan view of an array of staples and drive wedges according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 43 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge having an arrangement of angled staple cavities therein according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 44 is a partial plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a perspective cross-sectional partial view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 43 showing the staples and drivers positioned within the staple cartridge;

FIG. 46 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge having an arrangement of angled staple cavities therein according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 47 is a partial plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 46;

FIG. 48 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 46;

FIG. 49 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge having an arrangement of angled staple cavities therein according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 50 is a partial plan view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 49;

FIG. 51 is a partial perspective cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 49 showing the staples and multi-staple drivers positioned within the staple cartridge;

FIG. 52 illustrates a prior staple pattern implanted in tissue;

FIG. 52A illustrates a staple pattern deployed from the staple cartridge of FIG. 3;

FIG. 52B shows the staple pattern of FIG. 52A in an extended state;

FIG. 53 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge including a cartridge body and an implantable adjunct material positioned thereon in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 54 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 55 is a partial plan view of a staple cartridge including a cartridge body and an implantable adjunct material positioned thereon in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 56 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material in accordance with at least one embodiment;

fig. 57 is a partial plan view of an implantable adjunct material in accordance with at least one embodiment;

FIG. 58 is an exploded perspective view of a portion of the surgical stapling instrument and end effector;

FIG. 59 is a perspective view of a surgical staple cartridge having a support member supported on the deck of the staple cartridge in a position in which the supports are removable from the cartridge;

FIG. 60 is a top view of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIG. 59;

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIGS. 59 and 60;

FIG. 62 is a top view of another portion of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIGS. 59-61;

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of the proximal end of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIGS. 59-62;

FIG. 64 is another perspective view of the proximal end of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIGS. 59-63 with the retention tab folded for insertion into the longitudinal slot in the cartridge;

FIG. 65 is another perspective view of the proximal end of the surgical staple cartridge and support member of FIGS. 59-64 with the retention tab inserted into the longitudinal slot and retained therein by the staple sled;

FIG. 66 is an exploded assembly view of another surgical staple cartridge and another support member;

FIG. 67 is a bottom view of the support member of FIG. 66;

FIG. 68 is an enlarged view of a portion of the support member of FIG. 67, with the underlying staple cavities in the staple cartridge shown in phantom;

FIG. 69 is an enlarged view of a portion of another support member with the underlying staple cavities in the staple cartridge shown in phantom;

FIG. 70 is a top view of a portion of another support member with the underlying staple cavities in the staple cartridge shown in phantom;

FIG. 71 is a top view of a portion of another support member;

FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of the support member of FIG. 71 taken along line 72-72 of FIG. 71;

FIG. 73 is a perspective view of another surgical staple cartridge;

FIG. 74 is a top view of the surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 73;

FIG. 75 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of FIGS. 73 and 74;

FIG. 76 is a top view of another surgical staple cartridge;

FIG. 77 is a side elevational view of a portion of the surgical stapling device with tissue "T" clamped between the surgical staple cartridge of FIG. 76 and an anvil of the device;

FIG. 78 is an enlarged view of a portion of the surgical staple cartridge of FIGS. 76 and 77, a portion of which is shown in cross-section;

FIG. 79 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of a staple cartridge and anvil according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and is

Fig. 80 is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of a staple cartridge and anvil according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

Detailed Description

The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on the same day as the present application, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________ entitled "CIRCULAR FASTENER CARTRIDGES FOR APPLYING RADIALLY EXPANDABLE FASTENER LINES" having attorney docket number END7503 USNP/140283;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________ entitled "SURGICAL STAPLE AND DRIVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR STAPLE CARTRIDGES," attorney docket number END7504 USNP/140284;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________ entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING BUTTRESSES AND ADJUNCT MATERIALS" attorney docket No. END7506 USNP/140286;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. __________ entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE," attorney docket number END7507 USNP/140287; and

U.S. patent application Ser. No. END7508USNP/140288, attorney docket number "METHOD FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE".

The applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications filed on 30/6/2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety:

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,996 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSION HAVING DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,006 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE Comprising FASTENER CAVITIES INCLUDING FASTENER CONTROL FEATURES";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,014 entitled "END EFFECTOR COMPRISING AN ANVIL INCLUDING PROJECTONS EXTENDING THEREFROM";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,004 entitled "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,008 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,997 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGING MEMBERS";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,002 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,013 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVER ARRANGEMENTS"; and

U.S. patent application serial No. 14/319,016 entitled "FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED thermoo".

Numerous specific details are set forth herein to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the drawings. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus, it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and exemplary. Variations and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the scope of the claims.

The term "comprising" (and any form of inclusion, such as "comprising" and "comprising)", "having" (and any form of having, such as "having" and "having)", "containing" (and any form of containing, such as "containing" and "containing") are open-ended verbs, and thus a surgical system, device, or apparatus that "comprises", "has", "contains", or "contains" one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements An apparatus, or a component of a device, has, but is not limited to having, only these one or more features.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to a clinician manipulating a handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term "distal" refers to the portion away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that for simplicity and clarity, spatial terms such as "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," and "lower" may be used herein in connection with the figures. However, surgical instruments are capable of use in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

A surgical fastening instrument 100 is shown in fig. 1. The surgical fastening instrument 100 is configured to deploy an expandable staple line. Various expandable staple lines are disclosed herein and the surgical fastening instrument 100 can deploy any of these expandable staple lines. Further, surgical instruments other than the surgical fastening instrument 100 can be configured to deploy any of the expandable staple lines disclosed herein.

The surgical fastening instrument 100 includes a handle 110, a shaft 120, and an end effector 200. The handle 110 includes a pistol grip 140, a closure trigger 150 configured to operate a closure system, a firing trigger 160 configured to operate a firing system, and an articulation actuator 170 configured to operate an articulation system for articulating the end effector 200 relative to the shaft 120. The disclosure of U.S. patent 7,845,537 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES," published 12, 7, 2010, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Other embodiments are contemplated that include a single trigger configured to operate both the closure system and the firing system. Various embodiments are contemplated in which the end effector of the surgical instrument is not capable of articulation. The disclosure of U.S. patent application serial No. 13/974,166 entitled "fire machinery recovery DEVICES FOR POWERED heating appliances" filed on 23.8.2013 is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The closure trigger 150 may be rotated toward the pistol grip 140 to actuate the closure system. Referring first to FIG. 2, the closure system includes a closure tube 122 that advances distally as a closure trigger 150 moves toward the pistol grip 140. The closure tube 122 is engaged with a first jaw of an anvil 220 that includes the end effector 200. In at least one instance, the anvil 220 includes one or more tabs 228 extending therefrom that are positioned in one or more elongated slots 212 defined in the second jaw. The projections 228 and the elongated slots 212 are structured and arranged to enable the anvil 220 to rotate between an open position and a closed position relative to the stationary or fixed cartridge channel 210 of the second jaw. In various alternative embodiments, the cartridge channel can rotate relative to a stationary or fixed anvil 220. Regardless of whether the cartridge channel or anvil of the end effector is fixed, the end effector may be articulatable or non-articulatable relative to the shaft.

Referring again to FIG. 2, the anvil 220 includes tabs 226 that engage the slots 124 defined in the closure tube 122. As the closure tube 122 is moved distally by the closure trigger 150, the sidewalls of the slot 124 can engage the tabs 226 and rotate the cartridge channel 210 toward the anvil 220. As the closure tube 122 moves proximally, the other sidewall of the slot 124 can engage the tab 226 and rotate the anvil 220 away from the cartridge channel 210. In some instances, a biasing spring can be positioned intermediate the anvil 220 and the cartridge channel 210, which can be configured to bias the anvil 220 away from the cartridge channel 210.

Referring again to fig. 2, the firing trigger 160 may be rotated toward the pistol grip 140 to actuate the firing system. The firing system includes a firing member that extends within the shaft 120. The firing system also includes a sled 250 operably engaged with the firing member. When the firing trigger 160 is rotated toward the pistol grip 140, the firing trigger 160 drives the firing member and sled 250 distally within the end effector 200. The end effector 200 further includes a staple cartridge 230 positioned within the cartridge channel 210. The staple cartridge 230 is replaceable and therefore removable from the cartridge channel 210; however, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the staple cartridge 230 is not easily replaceable and/or removable from the cartridge channel 210.

Staple cartridge 230 includes a plurality of staple cavities 270. Each staple cavity 270 is configured to removably store a staple therein, but it is possible that some staple cavities 270 may not accommodate a staple stored therein. The staple cartridge 230 further includes a plurality of staple drivers 240 movably positioned therein. Each driver 240 is configured to support three staples and/or simultaneously or concurrently lift three staples out of their respective staple cavities 270. Although the embodiment shown in fig. 1-4 has each driver 240 deploying three staples simultaneously, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the drivers may deploy less than three staples or more than three staples simultaneously. The sled 250 includes one or more ramp surfaces 252 configured to slide under the driver 240 and lift the driver 240 upwardly toward the deck surface 233 of the staple cartridge 230. Sled 250 is movable from proximal end 231 toward distal end 232 of staple cartridge 230 to sequentially lift drivers 240. When the drivers 240 are lifted by the sled 250 toward the deck, the drivers 240 lift the staples toward the anvil 220. As sled 250 advances distally, staples are driven against anvil 220 and ejected from staple cavities 270 by drivers 240. The staple cartridge 230 can further include a support tray 260 attached thereto that extends around the bottom of the staple cartridge 230 and retains the drivers 240, staples, and/or sled 250 within the cartridge 230.

Sled 250 and/or a pusher bar member that advances sled 250 distally may be configured to engage a first jaw comprising anvil 220 and/or a second jaw comprising staple cartridge 230 and position anvil 220 and staple cartridge 230 relative to one another. In at least one instance, the sled 250 includes at least one first projection 256 extending therefrom that is configured to engage the anvil 220, and at least one second projection 258 configured to engage the cartridge channel 210. The

projections

256 and 258 can position the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230 relative to one another. As the sled 250 advances distally, the

projections

256 and 258 can position the anvil 220 and set a tissue gap between the anvil 220 and the platform 233.

The end effector 200 may further comprise a cutting member configured to incise tissue captured between the staple cartridge 230 and the anvil 220. Referring again to fig. 2, slide 250 includes a knife 254; however, any suitable cutting member may be used. As sled 250 advances distally to deploy staples from staple cavities 270, knife 254 moves distally to transect tissue. In certain alternative embodiments, the firing member that pushes the sled 250 distally can comprise a cutting member. Cartridge 230 includes a longitudinal slot 234 configured to at least partially receive a knife 254. The anvil 220 further includes a longitudinal slot configured to at least partially receive the knife 254; however, embodiments are contemplated wherein only one of the cartridge 230 and the anvil 220 comprises a slot configured to receive a cutting member.

In addition to the above, referring primarily to fig. 1, the handle 110 of the surgical instrument 100 includes an articulation actuator 170 that, when actuated, can articulate the end effector 200 about an articulation joint 180. When actuator 170 is pushed in a first direction, end effector 200 may be rotated in a first direction, and when actuator 170 is pushed in a second direction, end effector 200 may be rotated in a second or opposite direction. Referring now to fig. 2, the end effector 200 includes an articulation lock plate 182 mounted to a proximal end thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock plate 182 is mounted to the cartridge channel 210 by a pin 184 that extends through apertures 214 defined in the cartridge channel 210 and the lock plate 182. The shaft 120 may also include a lock movable between a first engaged position, in which the lock is engaged with the lock plate 182, and a second or disengaged position, in which the lock is disengaged from the lock plate. When the lock is in its engaged position, the lock may hold the end effector 200 in place. When the lock is in its disengaged position, the end effector 200 may rotate about the articulation joint 180. The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/314,788 entitled "ROBOTIC-CONTROLLED SHAFT BASED ROTARY DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", filed on 25.6.2014, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The disclosure of U.S. patent application serial No. 2013/0168435 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR", filed 2013, 2, 26, is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Turning now to fig. 3 and 4, the staple cavities 270 of the staple cartridge 200 can be positioned and arranged such that the staples stored therein are deployed as part of a malleable staple line. The staple cavities 270 are arranged in an array of staple cavities. The staple cavity array includes a first row of staple cavities 270a that removably store a first row of staples. A first row of staple cavities 270a extends along a first longitudinal axis 272a adjacent to longitudinal slot 234. The staple cavity array includes a second row of staple cavities 270b that removably store a second row of staples. The second row of staple cavities 270b extends along a second longitudinal axis 272b adjacent to the first row of staple cavities 270 a. The staple cavity array includes a third row of staple cavities 270c that removably store a third row of staples. The third row of staple cavities 270c extends along the second row of staple cavities 270 b.

Referring again to fig. 3 and 4, the first longitudinal axis 272a is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the second longitudinal axis 272 b; however, other arrangements are possible in which the first longitudinal axis 272a is not parallel to the second longitudinal axis 272 b. The second longitudinal axis 272b is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the third longitudinal axis 272 c; however, other arrangements are possible in which the second longitudinal axis 272b is not parallel to the third longitudinal axis 272 c. The first longitudinal axis 272a is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the third longitudinal axis 272 c; however, other arrangements are possible in which the first longitudinal axis 272a is not parallel to the third longitudinal axis 272 c.

Referring again to fig. 3 and 4, staple cartridge 230 comprises a first portion of an array of staple cavities comprising first, second, and

third rows

270a, 270b, and 270c on a first side of longitudinal slot 234, and a second portion of the array of cavities comprising first, second, and

third rows

270a, 270b, and 270c on a second side of longitudinal slot 234. The first cavity array portion is a mirror image of the second cavity array portion with respect to the longitudinal slot; however, other arrangements may be used.

Staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy the array of staples shown in fig. 52A. The staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy a first row of staples 280a along a first longitudinal axis 282a, a second row of staples 280b along a second longitudinal axis 282b, and a third row of staples 280c along a third longitudinal axis 282 c. In various circumstances, the staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy the first, second, and third rows of

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c on a first side of the longitudinal cut 284 and the first, second, and third rows of

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c on a second side of the longitudinal cut 284. The first row of staples 280a can be positioned adjacent to the longitudinal cut 284 and the third row of staples 280c can be positioned furthest from the longitudinal cut 284. Each second row of staples 280b can be positioned intermediate the first row of staples 280a and the third row of staples 280 c.

In addition to the above, first staples 280a are removably stored in first staple cavities 270a, second staples 280b are removably stored in second staple cavities 270b, and third staples 280c are removably stored in third staple cavities 270 c. The staple cavities 270a-270c are constructed and arranged to deploy staples 280a-280c in the arrangement shown in FIG. 52A. The first staple 280a is oriented at a first angle 274a relative to the longitudinal axis 282 a. Second staple 280b is oriented at a second angle 274b with respect to longitudinal axis 282 b. Third staple 280c is oriented at a third angle 274c with respect to longitudinal axis 282 c. The first angle 274a is different from the second angle 274 b; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 274a and the second angle 274b may be the same. Third angle 274c is different than second angle 274 b; however, in other embodiments, third angle 274c and second angle 274b may be the same. First angle 274a is the same as third angle 274 c; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 274a and the third angle 274c may be different.

In addition to the above, the first angle 274a may be measured relative to the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second angle 274b may be measured relative to the second longitudinal axis 282b, and the third angle 274c may be measured relative to the third longitudinal axis 282 c. When the first, second, and/or third

longitudinal axes

282a, 282b, and/or 282c are parallel to one another, the first, second, and/or third angles 274a, 274b, and 274c may be measured with respect to any of the first, second, and third

longitudinal axes

282a, 282b, and 282 c. When the first, second, and/or third

longitudinal axes

282a, 282b, and/or 282c are parallel to the longitudinal slot 234, the first, second, and/or third angles 274a, 274b, and/or 274c may be measured relative to the longitudinal slot 234. Accordingly, when the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c are parallel to the tissue transection 284, the first angle 274a, the second angle 274b, and/or the third angle 274c can be measured relative to the tissue transection 284.

First staple 280a, second staple 280b, and third staple 280c may be positioned and arranged such that they provide laterally overlapping staple lines. More specifically, referring again to fig. 52A, the longitudinal row of second staples 280b is positioned laterally relative to the longitudinal row of first staples 280a such that the second staples 280b are aligned with the gaps between the first staples 280a, and similarly, the longitudinal row of third staples 280c is positioned laterally relative to the longitudinal row of second staples 280b such that the third staples 280c are aligned with the gaps between the second staples 280 b. Such an arrangement may restrict the flow of blood from the tissue T to the transverse section 284.

In the illustrated embodiment, each first staple 280a includes a distal leg 283a that is distal with respect to the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b, and a proximal leg 285a that is otherwise proximal with respect to the distal leg 283 b. Similarly, each third staple 280c includes a distal leg 283c that is distal with respect to the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b, and a proximal leg 285c that is otherwise proximal with respect to the distal leg 283 b. Second staple 280b, adjacent to first staple 280a and third staple 280c described above, includes a proximal leg 285b that is proximal relative to

proximal legs

285a, 285c of first staple 280a and third staple 280 c. This is merely an exemplary embodiment and any suitable arrangement may be used.

In addition to the above, the first staple 280a spans the first longitudinal axis 282 a. Distal leg 283a of first staple 280a is positioned on one side of first longitudinal axis 282a and proximal leg 285a is positioned on the other side of first longitudinal axis 282 a. In other words, the legs of first staple 280a are offset relative to first longitudinal axis 282 a. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the first staple 280a is aligned or collinear with the first longitudinal axis 282 a.

Second staple 280b spans second longitudinal axis 282 b. The distal leg 283b of the second staple 280b is positioned on one side of the second longitudinal axis 282b and the proximal leg 285b is positioned on the other side of the second longitudinal axis 282 b. In other words, the legs of second staple 280b are offset relative to second longitudinal axis 282 b. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the second staple 280b is aligned or collinear with the second longitudinal axis 282 b.

Third staple 280c spans third longitudinal axis 282 c. The distal leg 283c of the third staple 280c is positioned on one side of the third longitudinal axis 282c and the proximal leg 285c is positioned on the other side of the third longitudinal axis 282 c. In other words, the legs of the third staple 280c are offset relative to the third longitudinal axis 282 c. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the third staple 280c is aligned or collinear with the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

In certain embodiments, a first staple 280a may include a proximal leg 285a that is aligned with a distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280 b. Similarly, a third staple 280c may include a proximal leg 285c that is aligned with the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280 b. In various embodiments, a first staple 280a may include a proximal leg 285a that is positioned distally relative to a distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280 b. Similarly, the third staple 280c may include a proximal leg 285c that is positioned distally relative to the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280 b.

The row of second staples 280b is defined by the row of first staples 280a and the row of third staples 280 c. The second peg 280b is bounded on one side by the first peg 280a and on the other side by the third peg 280 c. More specifically, first staples 280a are positioned laterally inward with respect to proximal legs 285b of second staples 280b, and similarly, third staples 280c are positioned laterally outward with respect to distal legs 283b of second staples 280 b. Thus, the first staple 280a may provide a boundary on one side of the second staple 280b, and the third staple 280b may provide a boundary on the other side of the second staple 280 b.

A conventional staple array is shown in fig. 52. The staple array includes a first row of staples 380a positioned along a first longitudinal axis 382a on a first side of an incision 384 in tissue T, a second row of staples 380b positioned along a second longitudinal axis 382b, and a third row of staples 380c positioned along a third longitudinal axis 382 c. The nail 380a is aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the first longitudinal axis 382 a; the nail 380b is aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the second longitudinal axis 382 b; and the nail 380c is aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the third longitudinal axis 382 c. In other words, the first staples 380a are not oriented at an angle relative to the first longitudinal axis 382a, the second staples 380b are not oriented at an angle relative to the second longitudinal axis 382b, and the third staples 380c are not oriented at an angle relative to the third longitudinal axis 382 c. The staple array also includes a first row of staples 380a positioned along a first longitudinal axis 382a, a second row of staples 380b positioned along a second longitudinal axis 382b, and a third row of staples 380c positioned along a third longitudinal axis 382c, positioned on a second or opposite side of the cut 384.

When a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T stapled by the array of staples shown in FIG. 52, the tissue will stretch longitudinally. Further, in various circumstances, the

staples

380a, 380b, and 380c can longitudinally translate as the tissue is longitudinally stretched. Such an arrangement may be suitable in many cases; however, the

staples

380a, 380b, and 380c may limit the stretching and/or movement of the tissue. In some cases, the tissue that has been stapled by

staples

380a, 380b, and 380c may be much less flexible than adjacent tissue that has not been stapled. In other words, the array of

staples comprising staples

380a, 380b, and 380c may cause abrupt changes in the material properties of the tissue. In at least one instance, a large strain gradient can be created within the tissue due to the staple array, which in turn can create a large stress gradient within the tissue.

As the staples 380a-380c are ejected from the staple cartridge, the legs of the staples can pierce the tissue T. Thus, the staple legs create holes in the tissue. Various types of tissue are elastic and can stretch around the staple legs as they pass through the tissue. In various circumstances, the elasticity of the tissue can enable the tissue to stretch toward and elastically return back toward the staple legs to reduce or eliminate the gap that exists between the tissue and the staple legs. Such elasticity may also enable the tissue to stretch when a stretching force is applied to the tissue; however, such elasticity may be inhibited by certain pin patterns. In at least one instance, the staple pattern shown in FIG. 52 can inhibit longitudinal stretching of tissue. When a longitudinally extending force is applied to the tissue stapled by the staple pattern of FIG. 52, the tissue may begin to pull away from the staple legs and create a gap therebetween. In some cases, particularly in bariatric resection applications, such gaps can lead to increased bleeding from the stomach tissue. In some cases, particularly in lung resection applications, air leakage can lead to lung tissue.

The array of staples shown in FIG. 52A is more flexible than the array of staples shown in FIG. 52. Referring now to fig. 52B, when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T, the

staples

280a, 280B, and 280c can be (first) longitudinally translated as the tissue is longitudinally stretched and/or (second) rotated as the tissue is longitudinally stretched. The compliant staple array shown in fig. 52 can produce significant extensibility along the staple line, such as in a longitudinal direction defined by the staple line, for example. Such longitudinal extensibility may reduce stress and/or strain gradients within the stapled tissue T and/or the tissue T surrounding the stapled tissue T. Further, the compliant staple array shown in fig. 52A can reduce or eliminate gaps between the staple legs and the tissue T when longitudinal stretching forces are applied to the tissue, and thus reduce bleeding and/or air leakage between the staple legs and the tissue.

For longitudinal translation of

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c, a first staple 280a may move along a first longitudinal axis 282a, a second staple 280b may move along a second longitudinal axis 282b, and a third staple 280c may move along a third longitudinal axis 282 c. As the first staples 280a move along the first longitudinal axis 282a, the first staples 280a may spread out on the first longitudinal axis 282 a. In other words, the distance or gap distance between the first staples 280a may increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along and/or parallel to the first longitudinal axis 282 a. Similarly, when the second staple 280b is moved along the second longitudinal axis 282b, the second staple 280b may be spread out on the second longitudinal axis 282 b. The distance or gap distance between the second staples 280b can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along and/or parallel to the second longitudinal axis 282 b. In addition, similarly, when the third staple 280c moves along the third longitudinal axis 282c, the third staple 280c may spread out on the third longitudinal axis 282 c. The distance or gap distance between the third staples 280c can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along and/or parallel to the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

As discussed above,

staples

280a, 280b, and/or 280c may move with tissue T as tissue T is stretched. When the tissue T is pulled longitudinally, in addition to the above, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c may remain parallel to each other. In some cases, such as when a lateral force (i.e., a force transverse to the longitudinal force) is applied to, for example, tissue T, the orientation of the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c may become non-parallel. In some instances, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c may move closer to one another when the tissue T is pulled longitudinally. Such movement may be the result of lateral contraction occurring within the tissue T when a longitudinally extending force is applied to the tissue T. In some cases, such as when a lateral force is applied to, for example, tissue T, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c may move away from one another.

With respect to the rotational movement of

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c, first staple 280a can rotate relative to first longitudinal axis 282a when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to tissue T. Each first staple 280a can rotate between an initial first angle 274a and another first angle 274a when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each first staple 280a can be rotated between an initial orientation in which the first staple 280a extends in a lateral direction to the first longitudinal axis 282a and another orientation that is more closely aligned with the first longitudinal axis 282 a. In some cases, applying a longitudinal pulling force to tissue T can cause first staple 280a to rotate to an orientation that is collinear with first longitudinal axis 282 a. In various circumstances, each first staple 280a can rotate about an axis that extends through the first longitudinal axis 282 a.

As described above, the first staples 280a can rotate between an initial first angle 274a and another first angle 274a when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial or unstretched first angle 274a may be between, for example, about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees. In certain embodiments, the initial or unstretched first angle 274a may be between, for example, about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched first angle 274a may be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched first angle 274a may be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the first angle of extension 274a may be between about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees, for example. In some cases, the first angle of extension 274a may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the first angle of extension 274a can be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one instance, the first angle of extension 274a can be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the difference between the unextended first angle 274a and the extended first angle 274a may be between, for example, about 1 degree and about 45 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unstretched first angle 274a and the stretched first angle 274a may be, for example, about 1 degree, about 2 degrees, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees, and/or about 5 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unextended first angle 274a and the extended first angle 274a may be, for example, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, and/or about 25 degrees.

In addition to the above, second staple 280b can rotate relative to second longitudinal axis 282b when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to tissue T. Each second staple 280b can rotate between an initial second angle 274b and another second angle 274b when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each second staple 280b can be rotated between an initial orientation in which the second staple 280b extends in the lateral direction to the second longitudinal axis 282b and another orientation that is closer to being aligned with the second longitudinal axis 282 b. In some cases, application of a longitudinal pulling force to tissue T can cause second staple 280b to rotate to an orientation that is collinear with second longitudinal axis 282 b. In various circumstances, each second staple 280b can rotate about an axis that is aligned with and/or extends through the second longitudinal axis 282 b.

As described above, second staple 280b may be rotated between an initial second angle 274b and another second angle 274b when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial or unstretched second angle 274a may be between, for example, about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees. In certain embodiments, the initial or unstretched second angle 274b may be between, for example, about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched second angle 274b may be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched second angle 274b may be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the second angle of extension 274b may be between about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees, for example. In some cases, the second angle of extension 274b may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the second angle of extension 274b can be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one instance, the second angle of extension 274b can be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b may be between, for example, about 1 degree and about 45 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b may be, for example, about 1 degree, about 2 degrees, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees, and/or about 5 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b may be, for example, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, and/or about 25 degrees.

In addition to the above, the third staple 280c can rotate relative to the third longitudinal axis 282c when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. Each third staple 280c can rotate between an initial third angle 274c and another third angle 274c when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each third staple 280c can be rotated between an initial orientation in which the third staple 280c extends in the lateral direction to the third longitudinal axis 282c and another orientation that is more closely aligned with the third longitudinal axis 282 c. In some cases, applying a longitudinal pulling force to tissue T can cause third staple 280c to rotate to an orientation that is collinear with third longitudinal axis 282 c. In various circumstances, each third staple 280c can rotate about an axis that is aligned with and/or extends through the third longitudinal axis 282 c.

As described above, the third staple 280c can rotate between an initial third angle 274c and another third angle 274c when a longitudinal pulling force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial or unstretched third angle 274c may be between, for example, about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees. In certain embodiments, the initial or unstretched third angle 274c may be between, for example, about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched third angle 274c may be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one embodiment, the initial or unstretched third angle 274c may be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the third degree of extension 274c may be between about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees, for example. In some cases, the third degree of extension 274c may be between about 30 degrees and about 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the extended third angle 274c can be, for example, about 45 degrees. In at least one instance, the extended third angle 274c can be, for example, about 10 degrees, about 20 degrees, about 30 degrees, about 40 degrees, about 50 degrees, about 60 degrees, about 70 degrees, and/or about 80 degrees.

In various instances, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c may be between, for example, about 1 degree and about 45 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c may be, for example, about 1 degree, about 2 degrees, about 3 degrees, about 4 degrees, and/or about 5 degrees. In some cases, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c may be, for example, about 5 degrees, about 10 degrees, about 15 degrees, about 20 degrees, and/or about 25 degrees.

In various circumstances, a first staple 280a in a first row of staples can be rotated a first amount and a second staple 280b in a second row of staples can be rotated a second amount different from the first amount. The first amount may be less than or greater than the second amount. In various circumstances, a first staple 280a in a first row of staples can be rotated a first amount and a third staple 280c in a third row of staples can be rotated a third amount different from the first amount. The first amount may be less than or greater than the third amount. In various circumstances, a third staple 280c in the third row of staples can be rotated a third amount and a second staple 280b in the second row of staples can be rotated a second amount different from the third amount. The third amount may be less than or greater than the second amount.

In at least one application, it may be desirable for the innermost staple row, i.e., the staple row closest to the incision, to be less flexible or inextensible than the other staple rows. For the outermost rows of staples, i.e., the rows of staples furthest from the slit, it may be desirable to be more flexible or malleable than the other rows of staples. When the angle between the first staple axis and the first longitudinal axis is less than the angle between the second staple axis and the second longitudinal axis, the first staple may have less space to rotate toward the first longitudinal axis than the second staple would have to rotate toward the second longitudinal axis and thus may stiffen the tissue more than the second staple. Similarly, when the angle between the second staple axis and the second longitudinal axis is less than the angle between the third staple axis and the third longitudinal axis, the second staple may have less room to rotate toward the second longitudinal axis than the third staple must rotate toward the third longitudinal axis and thus may stiffen tissue more than the third staple.

In addition to the above, the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A includes six longitudinal rows of staples. Other embodiments are contemplated, for example, which include less than six rows of staples, such as four rows of staples, or more than six rows of staples, such as eight rows of staples.

First staple 280a, second staple 280, and third staple 280c may include any suitable configuration, such as a V-shaped configuration or a U-shaped configuration. A staple including a V-shaped configuration may include a base, a first leg extending from a first end of the base, and a second leg extending from a second end of the base, wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directions that are non-parallel to each other. A staple including a U-shaped configuration may include a base, a first leg extending from a first end of the base, and a second leg extending from a second end of the base, wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directions parallel to each other.

For staple patterns such as disclosed in fig. 52A, each first staple 280a includes a proximal staple leg 285a and a distal staple leg 283 a. A staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in fig. 52A can comprise a proximal end and a distal end. Proximal staple leg 285a may be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than distal staple leg 283a, and similarly, distal staple leg 283a may be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than proximal staple leg 285 a. The base of each first peg 280a may define a first base axis. Proximal and distal

staple legs

285a, 283a may extend from the first base axis. The first staples 280a can be positioned and arranged such that the first base axis extends toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the distal end of the staple cartridge.

For staple patterns such as disclosed in fig. 52A, each second staple 280b includes a proximal staple leg 285b and a distal staple leg 283 b. As described above, a staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in fig. 52A can comprise a proximal end and a distal end. Proximal staple leg 285b may be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than distal staple leg 283b, and similarly, distal staple leg 283b may be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than proximal staple leg 285 b. The base of each second peg 280b may define a second base axis. Proximal and distal

staple legs

285b, 283b may extend from the second base axis. The second staples 280b can be positioned and arranged such that the second base axes extend toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge.

For staple patterns such as disclosed in fig. 52A, each third staple 280c includes a proximal staple leg 285c and a distal staple leg 283 c. As described above, a staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in fig. 52A can comprise a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285c may be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than the distal staple leg 283c, and similarly, the distal staple leg 283c may be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximal staple leg 285 c. The base of each third peg 280c may define a third base axis. Proximal and distal

staple legs

285c, 283c may extend from the third base axis. The third staple 280c can be positioned and arranged such that the third base axis extends toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the distal end of the staple cartridge.

For a staple pattern such as that disclosed in fig. 52A, the first staples 280a may be aligned with the third staples 280 c. Proximal staple leg 285a of first staple 280a may be aligned with proximal staple leg 285c of third staple 280 c. When the proximal staple leg 285a is aligned with the proximal staple leg 285c, the proximal staple leg 285a and the proximal leg 285c may be positioned along an axis perpendicular to the cut line 284. Distal staple leg 283a of first staple 280a may be aligned with distal staple leg 283c of third staple 280 c. When distal staple leg 283a is aligned with distal staple leg 283c, distal staple leg 283a and distal staple leg 283c may be positioned along an axis perpendicular to cut line 284. In such cases, the third staples 280c can seal the tissue with the first staples 280a deformed. Similarly, first staples 280a can hold tissue together while third staples 280c are deformed. In other embodiments, first staples 280a may not be aligned with third staples 280 c.

In addition to the above, the first staples 280a may be aligned with the third staples 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched state. When the staple pattern is longitudinally stretched, the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c may translate and/or rotate. In various circumstances, first staples 280a can remain aligned with third staples 280c as the tissue is longitudinally stretched. In other cases, first staples 280a may not remain aligned with third staples 280 c.

Again for the staple pattern disclosed in fig. 52A, the distal staple leg 283b of the second staple 280b may be aligned with the proximal staple leg 285a of the first staple 280a and/or the proximal leg 285c of the third staple 280 c. The distal staple leg 283b of the second staple 280b, the proximal staple leg 285a of the first staple 280a, and/or the proximal staple leg 285c of the third staple 280c may be positioned along an axis perpendicular to the cut line 284. Proximal staple leg 285b of second staple 280b may be aligned with distal staple leg 283a of first staple 280a and/or distal staple leg 283c of third staple 280 c. Proximal staple leg 285b of second staple 280b, distal staple leg 283a of first staple 280a, and/or distal staple leg 283c of third staple 280c may be positioned along an axis perpendicular to cut line 284.

In addition to the above, the staple legs of second staple 280b may be aligned with the staple legs of first staple 280a and/or third staple 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched state. First staple 280a, second staple 280b, and/or third staple 280c may translate and/or rotate as the staple pattern is longitudinally stretched. In various circumstances, the legs of second staple 280b may not remain aligned with the legs of first staple 280a and/or third staple 280c when the tissue is longitudinally stretched. In other cases, the legs of second staple 280b can remain aligned with the legs of first staple 280a and/or third staple 280c as the tissue is longitudinally stretched.

In various embodiments, the staple pattern can be arranged such that the staples in one longitudinal staple row overlap the staples in another longitudinal staple row. For example, distal staple leg 283b of second staple 280b may be positioned distally relative to proximal staple leg 285a of first staple 280a and/or proximal leg 285c of third staple 280 c. For example, proximal staple leg 285b of second staple 280b may be positioned proximal to distal staple leg 283a of first staple 280a and/or distal staple leg 283c of third staple 280 c. Proximal staple leg 285b of second staple 280b, distal staple leg 283a of first staple 280a, and/or distal staple leg 283c of third staple 280c may be positioned along an axis perpendicular to cut line 284.

As described above, second staples 280b may overlap first staples 280a and/or third staples 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched state. First staple 280a, second staple 280b, and/or third staple 280c may translate and/or rotate as the staple pattern is longitudinally stretched. In various circumstances, second staple 280b can remain overlapped with first staple 280a and/or third staple 280c as the tissue is longitudinally stretched. In some cases, second staple 280b may no longer overlap with first staple 280a and/or third staple 280c when the tissue is longitudinally stretched.

The staple pattern shown in FIG. 52A is shown in an unstretched state. When the tissue stapled by the staple pattern shown in FIG. 52A is longitudinally stretched, the staples may move longitudinally with the tissue and/or rotate within the tissue, as shown in FIG. 52B. Such movement is also shown in fig. 24.

The surgical instrument 100 is configured to be used during laparoscopic surgery. The end effector 200 and shaft 120 are sized and dimensioned to be inserted through a trocar or cannula into a patient. The trocar may include an internal passage that includes an inner diameter. In some cases, the inner diameter may be, for example, about 5mm or about 12 mm. The end effector 200 is a linear end effector that applies staples along a straight line. Other SURGICAL instruments are contemplated which apply staples along an at least partially curved line, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent 8,827,133, issued 9/2014 under the name "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR A FLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM". The entire disclosure of U.S. patent 8,827,133, entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR A FLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM," published 9/2014 is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Such surgical instruments are capable of applying curved expandable staple lines using the principles disclosed herein. While the surgical instrument 100 can be used during laparoscopic surgery, the surgical instrument 100 may also be used during open surgery, in which the surgical instrument 100 is inserted through a large incision in a patient. Further, the expandable staple lines disclosed herein may be applied by an open SURGICAL stapler, such as those disclosed in U.S. patent application publication 2014/0042205 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT," filed on 21/10.2013. The disclosure of U.S. patent application publication 2014/0042205 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT," filed 2013, 10, 21, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Turning now to fig. 4, anvil 220 includes an array of forming

pockets

290a, 290b, and 290c defined therein that are configured to deform

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c, respectively. The first forming pocket 290a is located along a first longitudinal axis 292a, the second longitudinal pocket 290b is located along a second longitudinal axis 292b, and the third forming pocket 290c is located along a third longitudinal axis 292 c. The

longitudinal axes

292a, 292b, and 292c are parallel and extend between the proximal end 221 and the distal end 222 of the anvil 220. The anvil 220 also includes a longitudinal slot 224 defined therein that is configured to receive at least a portion of the firing member. In at least one instance, the firing member includes a cutting portion that extends between the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230. The anvil 220 includes one row of first forming pockets 290a, one row of second forming pockets 290b, and one row of third forming pockets 290c on one side of the longitudinal slot 224, and another row of first forming pockets 290a, another row of second forming pockets 290b, and another row of third forming pockets 290c on the other side of the longitudinal slot 224. As the reader will appreciate, the forming

pockets

290a, 290b, and 290c are aligned with and correspond to staple cavities 270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively, defined in the staple cartridge 230.

Forming

pockets

290a, 290B, and 290c are configured to deform

staples

280a, 280B, and 280c into, for example, a B-shaped configuration. In various instances, forming

pockets

290a, 290B, and 290c are configured to enable staples and/or V-shaped staples to be deformed into, for example, such a B-shaped configuration. Each forming

pocket

290a, 290b, and 290c includes a proximal end configured to receive a proximal leg of a staple and a distal end configured to receive a distal leg of a staple. That is, any suitable anvil may be used to form the staples ejected from the staple cartridge into any suitable shape. Each forming

pocket

290a, 290b, and 290c may include a groove extending between proximal and distal ends thereof. The channel can include sidewalls configured to deform the staple within a plane and prevent, or at least limit, the staple legs from moving out of the plane when the staple legs are deformed.

Turning now to fig. 5, anvil 320 includes an array of forming

pockets

390a, 390b and 390c defined therein. Similar to the above, a first plurality of forming pockets 390a are arranged along a first longitudinal axis, a second plurality of forming pockets 390b are arranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a third plurality of forming pockets 390c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Each forming

pocket

390a, 390b, and 390c includes a proximal forming pocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each first forming pocket 390a includes a proximal end 393a configured to receive the proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 395a configured to receive the distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 390b includes a proximal end 393b configured to receive the proximal leg of a second staple and a distal end 395b configured to receive the distal leg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 390c includes a proximal end 393c configured to receive the proximal leg of a third staple and a distal end 395c configured to receive the distal leg of the third staple.

The proximal ends 393a, 393b, and 393c and the

distal ends

395a, 395b, and 395c can comprise any suitable configuration. Referring again to fig. 5, the proximal ends 393a, 393b, and 393c and the

distal ends

395a, 395b, and 395c each include an enlarged cup. The enlarged cup is wider than the channel 397 defined therebetween. In some cases, the enlarged cup and the channel extending therebetween may comprise an hourglass shape, for example. As the legs of the staple enter such a forming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cup, and the enlarged cup can guide the staple legs into the channel 397 as the staple legs deform. Each enlarged cup may include curved and/or angled sidewalls that may be configured to direct the staple legs toward the channel 397. In some cases, the magnifying cup may adjust the orientation of the misaligned tack leg.

The

staple forming pockets

390a, 390b and 390c are nested. For example, the distal enlarged cup 395b of the second formed pocket 390b is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

393c, 395c of the adjacent third staple forming pocket 390c and, in addition, the proximal enlarged cup 393b of the second formed pocket 390b is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

393a, 395a of the adjacent first formed pocket 390 a. Also for example, the proximal enlarged cup 393a of a first formed pocket 390a is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

393b, 395b of an adjacent second formed pocket 390 b. Additionally, for example, the distal enlarged cup 395c of the third shaped pocket 390c is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

393b, 395b of the adjacent second shaped pocket 390 b. The enlarged forming cup of each staple cavity may define a rectangular perimeter within which the entire forming pocket may be positioned. As a result of the nested arrangement described above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavity may overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. For example, the rectangular perimeter of second shaped cavity 390b may overlap the rectangular perimeter of first shaped cavity 390a and/or the rectangular perimeter of third shaped cavity 390 c.

Turning now to fig. 6, the anvil 420 includes an array of forming

pockets

490a, 490b and 490c defined therein. Similar to the above, a first plurality of forming pockets 490a are arranged along a first longitudinal axis, a second plurality of forming pockets 490b are arranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a third plurality of forming pockets 490c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Each forming

pocket

490a, 490b, and 490c includes a proximal forming pocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each first forming pocket 490a includes a proximal end 493a configured to receive a proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 495a configured to receive a distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 490b includes a proximal end 493b configured to receive a proximal leg of a second staple and a distal end 495b configured to receive a distal leg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 490c includes a proximal end 493c configured to receive a proximal leg of a third staple and a distal end 495c configured to receive a distal leg of the third staple.

Proximal ends 493a, 493b, and 493c, and

distal ends

495a, 495b, and 495c may include any suitable configuration. Referring again to fig. 6, proximal ends 493a, 493b, and 493c and

distal ends

495a, 495b, and 495c each comprise an enlarged cup. The enlarged cup is wider than the channel 497 defined therebetween. In some cases, the enlarged cup and the channel extending therebetween may comprise an hourglass shape, for example. When the legs of the staple enter such a forming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cup, and the enlarged cup can guide the staple legs into the channels 497 as the staple legs deform. Each enlarged cup may include curved and/or angled sidewalls that may be configured to direct the staple legs toward the channel 497. In some cases, the magnifying cup may adjust the orientation of the misaligned tack leg.

The

staple forming pockets

490a, 490b and 490c are nested. For example, the distal enlarged cup 495b of the second shaped pocket 490b is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

493c, 495c of the adjacent third staple shaped pocket 490c, and further, the proximal enlarged cup 493b of the second shaped pocket 490b is positioned intermediate the

enlarged cups

493a, 495a of the adjacent first shaped pocket 490 a. Also for example, the proximal amplifier cup 493a of a first shaped pocket 490a is positioned intermediate the

amplifier cups

493b, 495b of adjacent second shaped pockets 490 b. Additionally, for example, the distal magnifier cup 495c of the third shaped dimple 490c is positioned intermediate the

magnifier cups

493b, 495b of the adjacent second shaped dimple 490 b. The enlarged forming cup of each staple cavity may define a rectangular perimeter within which the entire forming pocket may be positioned. As a result of the nested arrangement described above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavity may overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. For example, the rectangular perimeter of the second shaped cavity 490b may overlap the rectangular perimeter of the first shaped cavity 490a and/or the rectangular perimeter of the third shaped cavity 490 c.

Referring again to fig. 52A,

staples

280a, 280b and 280c do not overlap. Other embodiments are contemplated in which at least some of the staples in the staple pattern overlap. Turning now to fig. 32, the staple pattern disclosed therein includes a first row of longitudinal staples 580a and a second row of longitudinal staples 580 b. As the reader will appreciate, some of the staples 580a in the first row overlap with the staples 580b in the second row. In at least one instance, the base of the second staple 580b extends below the base of the first staple 580 a. In such instances, the distal leg 585b of the second staple 580b is positioned on one side of the base of the first staple 580a, and the proximal leg 583b of the second staple 580b is positioned on the other side of the base of the first staple 580 a. Similarly, in at least one instance, the base of the first staple 580a extends below the base of the second staple 580 b. In such instances, distal leg 585a of first staple 580a is positioned on one side of the base of second staple 580b, and proximal leg 583a of first staple 580a is positioned on the other side of the base of second staple 580 b. As a result of the above, the first staples 580a are interwoven with the second staples 580 b.

Referring again to fig. 32, the staple pattern includes a first row of staples 580a and a second row of staples 580b positioned on one side of the longitudinal tissue incision, and a first row of staples 580a and a second row of staples 580b positioned on the other side of the longitudinal tissue incision. The first staples 580a are oriented distally and toward the longitudinal tissue incision, while the second staples 580b are oriented proximally and toward the longitudinal tissue incision.

Referring again to fig. 32, a first row of staples 580a is positioned along a first longitudinal axis and a second row of staples 580b is positioned along a second longitudinal axis. Due to the overlap between the first staple 580a and the second staple 580b, in some cases, the first longitudinal axis may be adjacent to the second longitudinal axis. In some cases, the overlap between the first and second rows of staples may enable the angled staples in the rows to have the same centerline spacing, which may be achieved with a conventional longitudinally arranged staple pattern (e.g., such as the staple pattern shown in fig. 52). In some cases, the overlap between the first row of staples and the second row of staples can enable the angled staples in the rows to have a centerline spacing that is closer than the centerline spacing that can be achieved with conventional longitudinally arranged staple patterns. In at least one embodiment, the first longitudinal axis can be collinear with the second longitudinal axis.

The staple pattern shown in fig. 32 includes a repeating pattern. The repeating pattern includes two first staples 580a, followed by two second staples 580b, followed by two first staples 580a, followed by two second staples 580b, and so on. The repeating pattern extends longitudinally in a proximal-distal direction. A first row of staples 580a has breaks therein filled by staples 580b and, similarly, a second row of staples 580b has breaks therein filled by staples 580 a. The repeating pattern is present on one side of the longitudinal cut and the repeating pattern is present on the other side of the longitudinal cut. These repeating patterns are mirror images of each other. Other repeating patterns are contemplated.

A staple cartridge 530 configured to removably store and deploy the staple pattern disclosed in fig. 32 is shown in fig. 33. Staple cartridge 530 includes a first row of staple cavities 570a for removably storing first staples 580a and a second row of staple cavities 570b for removably storing second staples 580 b. At least some of the first and

second staple cavities

570a, 570b are interconnected to removably store overlapping first and

second staples

580a, 580 b. The first row of staple cavities 570a can be disposed along a first longitudinal axis and the row of second staple cavities 570b can be disposed along a second longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis may optionally be positioned adjacent or collinear to facilitate deployment of the staple patterns disclosed herein. First and second rows of

staple cavities

570a, 570b are positioned on a first side of longitudinal slot 534, and first and second rows of

staple cavities

570a, 570b are positioned on a second side of longitudinal slot 534. The longitudinal slot 534 is configured to receive a firing member. The firing member may include a cutting element, such as a knife.

An anvil 520 configured to deform the staples of the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 32 is shown in FIG. 34. The anvil 520 includes a repeating pattern of forming cavities including first forming cavities 590a configured to deform the legs of first staples 580a and second forming cavities 590b configured to deform the legs of second staples 580 b. First shaped cavities 590a and second shaped cavities 590b are arranged in an alternating pattern. The alternating pattern includes an array of first and second shaped

cavities

590a, 590b positioned along a first longitudinal axis on one side of longitudinal slot 524, and an array of first and second shaped

cavities

590a, 590b positioned along a second longitudinal axis. The alternating pattern also includes an array of first and second shaped

cavities

590a, 590b positioned along a first longitudinal axis on the other side of longitudinal slot 524, and an array of first and second shaped

cavities

590a, 590b positioned along a second longitudinal axis. The array of forming cavities 590a, 590b may define a mirror image with respect to the longitudinal slots 524. The longitudinal slot 524 is configured to receive a firing member. The firing member may include a cutting element, such as a knife.

The staple pattern shown in FIG. 32 includes two rows of staples on each side of the longitudinal tissue cut; however, such a staple pattern may include more than two rows of staples, such as three rows of staples, for example. Such a third row of staples can be interwoven with the first row of staples 580a and/or the second row of staples 580 b. Alternatively, such a third row of staples may not be interwoven with either the first row of staples 580a or the second row of staples 580 b. In such embodiments, the first and second rows of

staples

580a, 580b may be interwoven, and the third row of staples may be adjacent to, for example, the first and/or second rows of

staples

580a, 580 b.

The staple pattern shown in FIG. 35 includes a longitudinal row of first staples 680a, a longitudinal row of second staples 680b, and a longitudinal row of third staples 6870 c. The first staple 680a has a first base width. The second staple 680b has a second base width. The third staple 680c has a third base width. The width of the staple base may be defined as the distance between a first staple leg extending from the base and a second staple leg extending from the base, measured along the base extending between the first staple leg and the second staple leg. In at least one instance, the base width is measured between the cross-sectional center of the first staple leg and the cross-sectional center of the second staple leg. In any case, the first base width is shorter than the second base width; however, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the second base width is shorter than the first base width. The third base width is shorter than the first base width and the second base width; however, other embodiments are contemplated wherein the third base width is longer than the first base width and/or the second base width.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 35, the second staple 680b has the longest base width. Thus, as the staples in the staple pattern rotate within the tissue as the tissue is longitudinally stretched, the second staples 680b will sweep through a greater arc length than the first staples 680 a. Similarly, the first staple 680a will sweep through a greater arc length than the third staple 680 c. Thus, in various circumstances, a first staple 680a will sweep through a first arc length, a second staple 680b will sweep through a second arc length, and a third staple 680c will sweep through a third arc length, wherein the first, second, and third arc lengths are different. Such arc lengths may be different even where the angles of the

pins

680a, 680b, and/or 680c are the same. In some cases, the first arc length, the second arc length, and/or the third arc length may be the same.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 35, the first staples 680a are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in the staple cartridge 630. The distal-most first staple 680a is oriented toward the distal end of staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in staple cartridge 630. The next first staple 680a in the second longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of first staples 680 a.

The second staples 680b are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in the staple cartridge 630. The distal-most second staple 680b is oriented toward the distal end of staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in staple cartridge 630. The next second staple 680b in the second longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of second pins 680 b.

The third staples 680c are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in the staple cartridge 630. The third, distal-most staple 680c is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. The next third staple 680c in the third longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of third staples 680 c.

With further reference to the staple pattern shown in FIG. 35, a longitudinal row of first staples 380a is nested within a longitudinal row of second staples 380 b. Similarly, a longitudinal row of third staples 380c is nested within a longitudinal row of second staples 380 b.

In addition to the above, the staple cartridge 630 includes a plurality of first staple cavities 670a that are configured to removably store first staples 680a therein. The staple cartridge 630 further includes a plurality of second staple cavities 670b configured to removably store second staples 680b and a plurality of third staple cavities 670c configured to removably store third staples 680 c. Referring to fig. 36, the anvil 620 can be configured to deform the

staples

680a, 680b and 680c as they are ejected from the staple cartridge 630. Anvil 620 includes a staple forming pocket pattern that is aligned with

staple cavities

670a, 670b and 670 c. For example, the anvil 620 can include a plurality of first forming pockets 690a aligned with the first staple cavities 670a, a plurality of second forming pockets 690b aligned with the second staple cavities 670b, and a plurality of third forming pockets 690c aligned with the third staple cavities 670 c.

As described above, the staple pattern may include several rows. The staples in each row may have the same orientation or different orientations. Fig. 23 illustrates an embodiment including a row of staples having a first set of staples 780a oriented in a first direction and a second set of staples 780b oriented in a second direction. The first and

second spikes

780a, 780b are positioned along a longitudinal axis. The first spike 780a is angled relative to the longitudinal axis and the second spike 780b is aligned with the longitudinal axis. Other arrangements are possible. The staples 780a are arranged in an alternating pattern with the staples 780 b.

With continued reference to FIG. 23 and reference again to FIG. 24, as the tissue is longitudinally stretched, the staples within the staple rows can translate and rotate within the tissue. In some cases, translation and/or rotation of the staples within the tissue can create holes or gaps between the staples and the tissue. Such holes or gaps may create leaks. Even though the various staple patterns disclosed herein may minimize such leakage, certain improvements may be made to the staples themselves to reduce and/or eliminate such leakage.

Turning now to fig. 17 and 18, staples such as

staples

280a, 280b, 280c, 380a, 380b, 380c, 580a, 580b, 680a, 680b, 680c, 780a, and/or 780b are shown in an unfired configuration. The unfired configuration of the staples is V-shaped; however, the principles discussed herein may be applied to staples of any suitable shape. FIG. 19 shows the staples of FIGS. 17 and 18 in a fired configuration. The fired configuration of the staple is B-shaped; however, the principles discussed herein may be applied to staples of any suitable shape. FIG. 20 illustrates the spike 881 of FIGS. 17-19 including a coating thereon; this staple will be referred to hereinafter as staple 880. Fig. 21 shows staples 880 deployed into tissue and holes or gaps 882 existing between the staples 880 and the tissue. Fig. 22 shows the coating 881 in an expanded state on a staple 880. The intumescent coating 881 may fill the entire gap 882. In some cases, the intumescent coating 881 may stretch the tissue. In various other cases, the coating 881 may not fill the entire gap 882.

The peg 880 may be constructed of any suitable material, such as, for example, metal. In some cases, the staples 880 may be constructed of, for example, titanium and/or stainless steel.

The expandable pin coating 881 may be composed of any suitable material. The pin coating 881 may be composed of, for example, poly-L-lactic acid and/or poly-95L/5D-lactic acid. Other copolymer compositions of PLA can be used. In various instances, once the staples 880 are implanted into tissue, the staple coating 881 can begin to form a gel, wherein the gel can expand to fill or at least partially fill the gaps 882. In various instances, the coating 881 may be applied to the staples 880 by dipping the staple lines into one or more solutions of a coating line. In at least one instance, for example, the staple line can be dipped into a first solution to apply the base coating and then into a second solution to apply the PLA. In some cases, the coating 881 may be applied to the staples 880 when the staples 880 are positioned in the staple cartridge. Chen et al, ELASTOMERIC BIOMATERIALS FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING, Progress In Polymer Science (Vol. 38, p. 584-671, 2013) are hereby incorporated by reference.

The pin coating 881 may be composed of, for example, a hydrophilic material. The hydrophilic material may comprise, for example, a hydrogel derivatized with a peptide containing microspheres of the RGD peptide sequence. The metal wires of the staples 880 may be coated with, for example, a natural biopolymer, such as hyaluronic acid or hyaluronic acid. Other hydrogels may be used. In various instances, once the staples 880 are implanted into tissue, the staple coating 881 may begin to expand, wherein the coating 881 may expand to fill or at least partially fill the gaps 882. In various instances, the coating 881 may be applied to the staples 880 by dipping the staple lines into one or more solutions of a coating line. In at least one instance, for example, the staple line can be dipped into a first solution to apply the base coating, and then into a second solution to apply the peptide-loaded hyaluronic acid. In some cases, the coating 881 may be applied to the staples 880 when the staples 880 are positioned in the staple cartridge. The entire disclosure of ATTACHMENT OF HYALURONAN TO METALLIC SURFACES, j.biomed.mater.res, (volume 68A, pages 95-106, 2004) by William g.pitt et al is incorporated herein by reference.

The pin coating 881 may be composed of, for example, xerogel. The pin coating 881 may be composed of, for example, gelatin microspheres and/or nanospheres. Gelatin includes collagen in at least partially denatured or fully denatured form, to which cells can bind and be degraded enzymatically. In various instances, gelatin may be loaded with, for example, fibroblast and/or platelet-derived growth factors. As the coating 881 degrades, the coating 881 may at least partially fill and at least partially seal the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881 may be applied to the staples 880 by: the staple line is dipped into a water-in-oil emulsion and then gelatin microspheres and/or nanospheres are lyophilized onto the staple line. The entire disclosure OF TGELATIN MICROPHORESS CROSS-LINKED WITH GENIPIN FOR LOCAL DELIVERY OF GROWTH FACTORS, J.tissue ENG.Regen.Med. (Vol.4, p. 514-523, 2010) by Luis Solorio et al is incorporated herein by reference.

The staple 880 is made of a wire having a circular cross-section; however, the staple 880 may be comprised of a wire having any suitable cross-section, such as, for example, a polygonal cross-section. For some overall width, the non-circular cross-section may have a larger circumference than the circular cross-section. Such non-circular cross-sections may support a greater amount of coating material than a circular cross-section, which may enable the coating to expand and fill larger holes than a nail having a circular cross-section. In some cases, the non-circular cross-section may be formed to create one or more grooves in the circular cross-section. In at least one such case, such grooves can extend longitudinally along the staple legs. In some cases, the longitudinal groove may extend along the axis. In some cases, the longitudinal groove may be looped around the staple leg. In at least one instance, such longitudinal grooves may extend in a helical manner around the leg.

The staples of the staple cartridge may be deployed with or without the use of, for example, a secondary material, such as a buttress material. Typically, the adjunct material can be placed on a top surface or deck of the staple cartridge such that the staples can capture the adjunct material against tissue as the staples are ejected from the staple cartridge. FIG. 55 shows two pieces of adjunct material 239 positioned on a deck surface 238 of staple cartridge 230. A first piece of auxiliary material 239 is positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot 234 and a second piece of auxiliary material 239 is positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot 234. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein a single piece of adjunct material is supported by a deck surface 238 that extends on both sides of the longitudinal slot 234 and the staple cartridge 230. Referring again to fig. 55, each piece of secondary material 239 is substantially rectangular and extends over a staple pattern that includes a row of first staple cavities 270a, a row of second staple cavities 270b, and a row of third staple cavities 270 c.

Staples

280a, 280b, and 280c, stored in

staple cavities

270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively, penetrate through the adjunct material 239 as they are ejected from staple cartridge 230 and capture a portion of the adjunct material 239 therein as the

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c are formed by anvil 220.

In addition to or in lieu of a adjunct material positioned on the staple cartridge, an adjunct material can be positioned on the anvil. Tissue-penetrating staples may penetrate the anvil adjunct before contacting the anvil and then re-penetrate the anvil adjunct before re-entering the tissue.

After the

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c have been deformed by the anvil 220, the adjunct material 239 is captured by the

staples

280a, 280b, and 280c against the tissue, in addition to the above. In other words, the adjunct material 239 is implanted against the tissue by the

staples

280a, 280b, and 280 c. When the tissue is longitudinally stretched, the adjunct material 239 can be stretched with the tissue, as described above.

The auxiliary material may provide a number of benefits. The secondary material may help seal the puncture created by the staple leg. In various circumstances, the staple legs can push the adjunct material into the puncture as the staple legs pass through the tissue. The adjunct material can also help seal the gap created between the staple legs and the tissue as the tissue is stretched longitudinally. The adjunct material can support tissue. In various circumstances, the adjunct material can reinforce the tissue and inhibit the staples from tearing the tissue.

Referring again to fig. 55, the reader will appreciate that portions of the auxiliary material 239 are not captured by the

pegs

280a, 280b, and 280 c. For example, portions of the secondary material extending around the periphery of the staple may not be captured by the staple. Similarly, portions of the secondary material positioned in the middle of the staple may not be captured by the staple. Such uncaptured portions of the adjunct material 239 can provide no sealing benefits described above, while inhibiting the ductility provided by the staple patterns discussed herein. Such uncaptured portions may also inhibit rotation of the staples within tissue, as described above. Improvements to the embodiment of fig. 55 are shown in fig. 53, 54, 56 and 57. Such embodiments include depressions, notches, cuts, slits, apertures, and/or any other suitable interruptions configured to increase the extensibility of the secondary material. Moreover, such interruptions can facilitate rotation of the staples within the tissue.

Referring to fig. 53, the secondary material 939 includes scalloped edges or sides 938. Scalloped side 938 includes a recess or notch 937 defined therein. The notch 937 comprises a curved configuration; however, suitable configurations may be used. The notch 937 reduces the perimeter of the uncaptured material extending around the perimeter of the secondary material 939 and increases the flexibility and extensibility of the secondary material 939.

Referring again to fig. 53, the secondary material 939 further includes an aperture 936 defined therein. Opening 936 is oval-shaped and includes a through hole; however, alternative embodiments are envisaged. The aperture 936 is located intermediate adjacent second staple cavities 270b, and intermediate first staple cavities 270a and third staple cavities 270 c; however, alternative locations are contemplated. The apertures 936 reduce the uncaptured material within the staple line and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the secondary material 939.

Referring again to fig. 53, the body of secondary material 939 extends over the

staple cavities

270a, 270b, and 270 c. Alternative embodiments are contemplated wherein the adjunct material 939 does not extend over the

staple cavities

270a, 270b, and/or 270 c. Turning now to fig. 54, secondary material 939' includes slots or

openings

935a, 935b, and 935c that extend partially over

staple cavities

270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively.

Openings

935a, 935b, and 935c are larger than openings 936; however, the

openings

935a, 935b, and/or 935c may be the same size as the apertures 936 and/or larger than the apertures 936.

Referring to fig. 56, the secondary material 1039 includes a notch edge or side 1038. The notch side 1038 includes a depression or notch 1037 defined therein. The notch 1037 includes an angled configuration; however, suitable configurations may be used. The notches 1037 reduce the perimeter of the uncaptured material extending around the secondary material 1039 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the secondary material 1039.

Referring again to fig. 56, the secondary material 1039 also includes a slot 1036 defined therein. The slot 1036 is oval-shaped and includes a through-hole; however, alternative embodiments are envisaged. The secondary material 1039 includes a first row of slits 1036a and a second row of slits 1036 b. Slits 1036a are located intermediate adjacent second staples 1080b and intermediate first and

third staples

1080a, 1080 c; however, alternative locations are contemplated. Slits 1036b are located intermediate adjacent third staples 1080c and intermediate second and

fourth staples

1080b, 1080 d; however, alternative locations are contemplated. Slits 1036a are parallel to first and

third staples

1080a, 1080c, and similarly, slits 1036b are parallel to second and

fourth staples

1080b, 1080 d; however, the slits may have any suitable orientation. The

slits

1036a and 1036b reduce the uncaptured material within the staple line and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the secondary material 1039.

Slits

1036a and 1036b are shorter than the bases of

staples

1080a, 1080b, 1080c, and 1080 d; however, embodiments are contemplated wherein slits 1036a and/or 1036b are the same length and/or longer than the base of

staples

1080a, 1080b, 1080c, and 1080 d.

Referring to fig. 57, the secondary material 1139 includes notched edges or sides 1138. The notch side 1138 includes a recess or notch 1137 defined therein. Notch 1137 includes a curved configuration; however, suitable configurations may be used. The notches 1137 reduce the perimeter of the uncaptured material extending around the adjunct material 1139 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 1139.

Referring again to fig. 57, the secondary material 1139 also includes slots 1136 defined therein. The slot 1136 is oval and includes a through hole; however, alternative embodiments are envisaged. The auxiliary material 1139 includes a first row of slits 1136a and a second row of slits 1136 b. Slots 1136a are located intermediate adjacent second pegs 1180b and intermediate first and

third pegs

1180a, 1180 c; however, alternative locations are contemplated. Slots 1136b are located intermediate adjacent third pegs 1180c and intermediate second and

fourth pegs

1180b, 1180 d; however, alternative locations are contemplated. Slots 1136a are parallel to first and

third pegs

1180a, 1180c, and similarly slots 1136b are parallel to second and

fourth pegs

1180b, 1180 d; however, the slits may have any suitable orientation. The

slits

1136a and 1136b reduce the uncaptured material within the staple line and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the secondary material 1139.

Slots

1136a and 1136b are shorter than the base of

staples

1180a, 1180b, 1180c, and 1180 d; however, embodiments are contemplated in which slots 1136a and/or 1136b are the same length as and/or longer than the base of

staples

1180a, 1180b, 1180c, and 1180 d.

As described herein, a firing member and/or a wedge sled can traverse the staple cartridge to fire the staples and/or eject the staples from staple cavities defined into the staple cartridge. For example, the firing member and/or wedge sled can translate along a firing path within the staple cartridge, and the firing member and/or wedge sled can engage the staple drivers and/or the staples themselves along the firing path to drive the staples from the staple cavities. As also described herein, a staple arrangement including angularly oriented staples may provide various benefits and advantages. For example, an array of angularly oriented staples may provide increased flexibility and/or longitudinal extensibility in the stapled tissue.

When the staples are angularly oriented relative to the firing path, at least a portion of the staple drivers and/or staples can be non-overlapping with and/or overlying the firing path. For example, the bases of the angularly oriented staples can span the firing path such that the staple legs are positioned on opposite sides of the firing path. In addition, angularly oriented staple drivers can traverse the firing path, and the ends of the staple drivers can be positioned on opposite sides of the firing path. In other instances, only the ends of the staples and/or staple drivers may overlie the firing path, and in other instances, the staples and/or staple drivers may be completely offset from, for example, the firing path.

In instances in which at least a portion of the staples and/or staple drivers are offset from the firing path, the moment arms between the firing path and the portions of the staples and/or staple drivers positioned on either side of the firing path can generate a torque within the staples and/or within the staple drivers. The torque may affect the tilt and/or tip-over of the staple during deployment. Thus, the staple legs of the torque staples may not engage tissue with equivalent force and/or speed, and/or the staple legs may not simultaneously pierce and/or capture tissue. Because twisting and/or rotation of the staples during deployment may adversely affect tissue penetration and/or staple formation, in various circumstances, it may be desirable to prevent and/or minimize torque generation during deployment of the angularly oriented staples.

When the staple drivers are angled relative to the firing path of the wedge sled, only a portion of the angled drivers may receive the driving or lifting force from the wedge sled. For example, the driving force may be applied to an angled driver along a diagonal path. To stabilize the angled driver and prevent twisting and/or rotation of the driver and thus the staples supported thereon, the wedge sled can include a plurality of drive wedges, and at least two of the drive wedges can contact the driver to apply a driving force at a plurality of locations on the driver. For example, a pair of laterally spaced drive wedges may engage and lift the angled drive such that the driving force is distributed at laterally spaced intervals along the length of the drive. Further, in at least one instance, the laterally spaced drive wedges can be equidistant from the centroid of the angled drive such that the drive is mass balanced with respect to the plurality of drive wedges.

Additionally or alternatively, multiple drivers may be connected and/or linked together in order to stabilize the angled drivers and prevent twisting and/or rotation of the drivers and thus the angled staples supported thereon. In some cases, the angled multi-staple drivers may be integrally formed. The connected drivers and/or multi-staple drivers may support multiple staples, which may reduce the number of moving parts within the staple cartridge and may prevent relative movement between the staple supporting surfaces of each interconnected and/or integrally formed staple rack. Further, the angled multi-staple drivers can be larger (i.e., wider and/or longer) than the single staple drivers. Thus, the multi-staple driver can have an increased aspect ratio. For example, the multi-staple driver may have an aspect ratio of 1: 1. In some cases, the aspect ratio may be 3:2 or 2: 1. In other cases, the aspect ratio may be, for example, less than 1:1 or greater than 2: 1. A higher aspect ratio multi-staple driver can provide greater stability to the staples supported thereon.

In various circumstances, a single drive wedge may engage an angled multi-staple driver, and in some circumstances, the driving force exerted by the drive wedge on the driver may be balanced relative to the center of mass of the driver. In other cases, multiple drive wedges can engage angled multi-staple drivers that can distribute the driving force laterally across the drivers. In various circumstances, the cumulative drive forces exerted by the laterally spaced drive wedges on the angled multi-staple driver can be balanced relative to the center of mass of the driver.

In other instances, the staples can be fired without a driver in order to stabilize the angled staples within the staple cartridge and prevent twisting and/or rotation thereof during deployment. For example, the wedge sled can include a staple-engaging surface that directly engages the sled-engaging surface of the staples in the driverless staple cartridge. The wedge sled can contact each staple at a plurality of laterally spaced locations along the base of the staple. For example, the wedge sled may include a plurality of driving wedges, and at least two driving wedges may contact the angled staple to apply the driving force at a plurality of locations. In each case, a pair of laterally spaced drive wedges can engage and lift the angled staple such that the driving force is evenly distributed at laterally spaced intervals along the length of the base of the staple. Further, in at least one instance, the laterally spaced drive wedges can be equidistant from the center of mass of the angled staple such that the staple is mass balanced with respect to the drive wedges.

An end effector assembly 2000 is disclosed in fig. 7. As shown, the end effector assembly 2000 includes a first jaw 2002, a second jaw 2004, a closure tube or frame 2006, and an end effector articulation joint 2009. The end effector assembly 2000 is movable between a first or open position and a second or closed position. As shown, the first jaw 2002 includes a pivot pin 2008 that is movably positioned within the closure slot 2010 of the second jaw 2004. For example, the pivot pin 2008 is configured to pivot and translate within the closure slot 2010 of the second jaw 2004 as the first jaw 2002 pivots relative to the second jaw 2004 and relative to the frame 2006 of the illustrated end effector assembly 2000.

In other instances, the first jaw 2002 can be fixed relative to the frame 2006, and the second jaw 2004 can pivot relative to the first jaw 2002 to open and close the

jaws

2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. In other instances, the

jaws

2002, 2004 can both pivot and/or otherwise move to open and/or close the

jaws

2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. For example, at least one of the

jaws

2002, 2004 can rotate, slide, and/or translate relative to the

other jaw

2002, 2004 and/or relative to the frame 2006 to open and/or close the

jaws

2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

Still referring to fig. 7, the end effector assembly 2000 is sized and configured to receive a staple cartridge 2020 that is configured for removable positioning within the end effector assembly 2000. For example, the illustrated staple cartridge 2020 can be a single use and/or disposable cartridge that can be replaced with another staple cartridge after staples 2012 have been fired therefrom. The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in fig. 7 comprises a deck 2026, a cartridge body 2024, and a housing 2022 that partially surrounds or encloses the cartridge body 2024. The illustrated staple cartridge 2020 further comprises staples 2012 ejectably positioned in the cartridge body 2024. The staple 2012 disclosed in fig. 7 is a generally "V-shaped" staple having legs that extend non-parallel.

In various instances, a staple cartridge (such as staple cartridge 2020) can be integrally formed with end effector assembly 2000, for example, and/or can be permanently secured within one of

jaws

2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, end effector assembly 2000 may be a single use and/or disposable end effector. In other instances, a staple cartridge secured to the end effector assembly 2000 can be reloaded with additional staples for subsequent firing, for example.

Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in fig. 7, a longitudinal slot 2032 is defined at least partially through the cartridge body 2024. The illustrated longitudinal slot 2032 extends along a longitudinal axis L that extends between the proximal end 2023 and the distal end 2025 of the cartridge body 2024. A longitudinal slot 2032, shown in fig. 7, extends from the proximal end 2023 toward the distal end 2025 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body 2024.

In some instances, the longitudinal slot 2032 can traverse the entire length of the cartridge body 2024. In other instances, the longitudinal slot 2032 can extend, for example, from the distal end 2023 toward the proximal end 2025. In other instances, the cartridge body 2024 may not include predetermined and/or pre-shaped longitudinal slots. For example, the firing member and/or cutting element can transect and/or cut the cartridge body 2024 during the firing stroke to form a slot therein.

The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in fig. 7 is configured to fire an array 2011 of staples 2012 into tissue. The staple array 2011 shown in fig. 7 includes angled staples 2012 that are angled relative to the longitudinal axis L and relative to the firing path of the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b, which are further described herein. The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in fig. 7 also includes

multiple staple drivers

2040a, 2040b, which are further described herein, to drivingly support the angled staples 2012 in the array 2011.

The angled staples 2012 are removably positioned in angled staple cavities 2028, which are defined in the cartridge body 2024 disclosed in fig. 7. For example, the illustrated staple cavity 2028 is angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. The illustrated arrangement of staple cavities 2028 corresponds to the illustrated array of staples 2011 positioned in staple cartridge 2020. Each staple cavity 2028 shown in fig. 7 includes an opening 2030 in the deck 2026, and each opening 2030 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a staple axis extending between the proximal and distal ends. The staple axes of the openings 2030 are skewed and/or angled with respect to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. For example, in the staple cartridge 2020 of fig. 7, all of the staple cavities 2028 defined into the cartridge body 2024 are angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the various staple cavities 2028 are angularly oriented relative to the other staple cavities 2028.

The staple cavities 2028 disclosed in fig. 7 are arranged in multiple rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, a portion of the staple cavities 2028 are arranged in a first inside row 2033, a first outside row 2035, and a first middle row 2037 on a first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032, and another portion of the staple cavities 2028 are arranged in a second inside row 2034, a second outside row 2038, and a second middle row 2036 on a second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. In the staple cartridge 2020 shown in fig. 7, the staple cavities 2028 and their

rows

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal slot 2032.

Although the staple cavities 2028 are shown as not intersecting or otherwise contacting each other, the

longitudinal rows

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 of staple cavities 2028 overlap. For example, the various staple cavities 2028 shown in fig. 7 extend laterally outboard and/or laterally inboard through the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 2028. In addition, the various illustrated staple cavities 2028 extend proximally and/or distally through the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 2028. Because the staples 2012 are arranged in overlapping arrays 2011, bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue can be controlled. Overlapping arrays of staples (such as staple array 2011) may be incorporated into other staple cartridges and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein, for example.

In other instances, more or less than three rows of staple cavities 2028 can be positioned on either

side

2027, 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. In some cases, one of the

sides

2027, 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020 can include a different number of rows of staple cavities 2028 than the

other side

2027, 2029. In some cases, the staple cavities 2028 may not longitudinally and/or laterally overlap the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cavities 2028 and/or rows thereof can be asymmetric with respect to the longitudinal slot 2032 and/or the longitudinal axis L.

Still referring to fig. 7, the illustrated staple cavities 2028 in each longitudinal row are parallel or substantially parallel. For example, as disclosed in fig. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in the first inside row 2033 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the first outside row 2035 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the first middle row 2037 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the second inside row 2034 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the second outside row 2036 are parallel to each other, and the staple cavities 2028 in the second middle row 2038 are parallel to each other.

As also disclosed in fig. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in each longitudinal row are angularly oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in an adjacent longitudinal row. For example, on the first side 2027 of the illustrated cartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 in the first intermediate row 2037 are angularly oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in the first inner row 2033 and in the first outer row 2035. Additionally, on the second side 2029 of the illustrated cartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 in the second intermediate row 2038 are angularly oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in the second inner row 2034 and the second outer row 2036.

In other instances, only a portion of the staple cavities 2028 in each

longitudinal row

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can be parallel to one another and/or less than all of the

longitudinal rows

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can include staple cavities 2028 that are parallel to one another. Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2028 can be randomly oriented. In some cases, at least one staple cavity in a staple cavity 2028 in a

longitudinal row

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can be parallel to at least one staple cavity in a staple cavity 2028 in an adjacent

longitudinal row

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038. In certain instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can comprise at least one staple cavity 2028 and/or at least one row of staple cavities parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. See, for example, fig. 10.

The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in fig. 7 includes

drivers

2040a, 2040b that are structured and dimensioned to movably fit within a cartridge body 2024 (fig. 7). Referring to fig. 7-9, the drivers 2040a, 2040B include a first driver 2040a (fig. 8-8B) and a second driver 2040B (fig. 8C-9). The first and

second drivers

2040a, 2040b are each configured to support a plurality of staples 2012. As shown in fig. 7-9, the multi-staple first driver 2040a has a first geometry and the multi-staple second driver 2040b has a second geometry. The geometry of the

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040b corresponds to the array 2011 of staples 2012 and to the arrangement of staple cavities 2028 shown in FIG. 7.

As described herein, the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028 on the first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032 is a mirror image of the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028 on the second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. Additionally, the geometry of the first driver 2040a is a mirror image of the geometry of the second driver 2040 b. As shown in fig. 7, the first driver 2040a is positioned on the first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032 and the second driver 2040b is positioned on the second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032.

In some cases, the drivers on one side of the cartridge body may not be a mirror image of the drivers on the other side of the cartridge body. Additionally, the first and/or second

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040b can be positioned on different and/or two

sides

2027, 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, multiple staple drivers having different geometries may be positioned on the same side of the longitudinal slot 2032. In still other instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can include multiple staple drivers having three or more different geometries. For example, specialized and/or different staple drivers may correspond to particular staples and/or groups of staples. Alternatively, in some cases, all of the multi-staple drivers in the staple cartridge 2020 can have the same geometry.

The first and second pluralities of

staple drivers

2040a, 2040b disclosed in fig. 7-9 include a plurality of slots or staple supporting shelves 2042. Further, each of the illustrated

drivers

2040a, 2040b is configured to drive a plurality of staples 2012. For example, the first driver 2040a (fig. 8-8B) includes a first leg 2042a, a second leg 2042B, and a third leg 2042c, each sized and configured to support one staple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 8B) of the staple 2012 is positioned in each of the

legs

2042a, 2042B, 2042c of the first driver 2040 a. In addition, referring primarily to fig. 8C-9, the second driver 2040b further includes a first support 2042a, a second support 2042b, and a third support 2042C, each sized and configured to support one staple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 9) of the staple 2012 is positioned in each of the

legs

2042a, 2042b, 2042c of the second driver 2040 a.

As disclosed in fig. 7, the first driver 2040a is a right driver that is positioned on the right or first side 2027 of the staple cartridge 2020. The first standoffs 2042a (fig. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a are configured to align with the staples 2012 in the first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second standoffs 2042B (fig. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a are configured to align with the staples 2012 in the first intermediate row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and the third standoffs 2042c (fig. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a are configured to align with the staples 2012 in the first inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028.

As further disclosed in fig. 7, the second driver 2040b is a left driver that is positioned on the left or second side 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020. For example, the first shelf 2042a (fig. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to align with staples 2012 in the second outer row 2036 of staple cavities 2028, the second shelf 2042b (fig. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to align with staples 2012 in the second intermediate row 2038 of staple cavities 2028, and the third shelf 2042C (fig. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to align with staples 2012 in the second inner row 2034 of staple cavities 2028.

Each of the

brackets

2042a, 2042b, 2042c disclosed in fig. 8-9 is defined into a step or platform 2045 of the first or

second driver

2040a, 2040 b. For example, the illustrated first and

second drivers

2040a, 2040b include platforms 2045, and a

support

2042a, 2042b, 2042c is defined into each of the platforms 2045. The platforms 2045 disclosed in fig. 8-9 of

drivers

2040a, 2040b are of the same height or elevation and are configured to maintain each staple 2012 in array 2011 at the same height or elevation relative to other staples 2012 in array 2011. Still referring to fig. 8-9, a connecting flange 2048 is also disclosed that extends between the steps 2045 of each

driver

2040a, 2040 b. Connecting flange 2048 may limit and/or constrain relative movement between steps 2045.

In other cases, steps or platforms 2045 may have different heights and/or elevations. For example, the height of each step 2045 can be varied to control the formed height of the staples 2012, thereby controlling the compression of the tissue captured within the formed staples 2012. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of each

shelf

2042a, 2042b, 2042c can be varied to control the height of the formed staples 2012, thereby controlling the compression of the tissue captured within the formed staples 2012.

Will drive the firstThe drivers 2040a and second drivers 2040b and their

supports

2042a, 2042b, 2042c are oriented in an arrangement that is complementary to the arrangement of the staple cavities 2028 and the array of staples 2011 in the staple cartridge 2020. As disclosed in fig. 8A and 8D, each

support

2042a, 2042b, 2042c includes a first end 2044 and a second end 2046, and the first end 2044 of each

support

2042a, 2042b, 2042c is distal to the second end 2046 of the

same support

2042a, 2042b, 2042 c. Additionally, an axis is defined between the first end 2044 and the second end 2046 of each

support

2042a, 2042b, 2042. For example, the first axis A_aDefined by the first support 2042a, the second axis A_bIs defined by the second support 2042b and has a third axis A_cDefined by the third support 2042 c.

In the arrangement shown, the first axis A_aIs configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled nails 2012 supported by the first support 2042a, the second axis a_bIs configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled nail 2012 supported by the second support 2042b, and a third axis a_cIs configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled spikes 2012 supported by the third leg 2042 c.

As disclosed in fig. 8A and 8D, the first axis a_aParallel or substantially parallel to the third axis A_c. In addition, a second axis A is shown in FIGS. 8A and 8D_bWhile traversing the first axis A_aAnd a third axis A_c. For example, as disclosed in fig. 8A and 8D, the second axis a_bPerpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first axis A_aAnd a third axis A_c。

Where the

drivers

2040a, 2040b are used in staple cartridges having different arrangements of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028, the relative orientations of the

carriages

2042a, 2042b, 2042c may be different. In some arrangements, for example, all axes A_a、A_b、A_cMay be parallel. In other arrangements, e.g. all axes A_a、A_b、A_cMay be interleaved. In some cases, one axis A_a、A_b、A_cCan be perpendicular to at least one other axis A_a、A_b、A_c. Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, one axis a _a、A_b、A_cMay be parallel to at least one other axis A_a、A_b、A_c。

Referring primarily to fig. 8-8C, the first and

second drivers

2040a, 2040b are integrally formed parts. For example, each

driver

2040a, 2040b is comprised of an integrally molded component. In other cases, at least one step 2045 and/or connecting flange 2048 may be formed separately. In such cases, the multiple pieces may be glued, welded, and/or otherwise adhered together, for example, to form a unitary piece.

The

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040b disclosed in fig. 7-9 are configured to drive staples 2012 from the staple cavities 2028 through a plurality of

longitudinal rows

2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2039. In staple cartridge 2020, shown in fig. 7, staples 2012 are arranged in three longitudinal rows on each side of slot 2032, and

drivers

2040a, 2040b are configured to support and drive the staples 2012 in each of the three longitudinal rows. For example, each of the illustrated first drivers 2040a is configured to drive staples 2012 positioned in a first inner row 2033, staples 2012 positioned in a first intermediate row 2037, and staples 2012 positioned in a first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028. In addition, each illustrated second driver 2040b is configured to drive staples 2012 positioned in a second inner row 2034, staples 2012 positioned in a second intermediate row 2038, and staples 2012 positioned in a second outer row 2036 of staple cavities 2028.

In other instances, staples 2012 can be arranged in more than three longitudinal rows or less than three longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032, and the

drivers

2040a, 2040b can be configured to engage staples 2012 in each of the longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032. For example, the staple cartridge 2020 can have two rows of staple cavities 2028 on either side of the longitudinal axis L, and the multi-staple driver positioned therein can comprise two racks that can be configured to support the staples in each of the two rows. In some cases, multiple staple drivers may fire multiple staples 2012 from the same row of staple cavities 2028. For example, a multi-staple driver can fire adjacent staples 2012 in the same row, such as, for example, the more proximal staples 2012 and the more distal staples 2012. In some cases, the multi-staple drivers may not engage the staples 2012 in each row on the sides of the longitudinal slots 2032. For example, separate and distinct drivers may engage staples in one of the rows (e.g., such as the outermost row and/or the innermost row). Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can comprise at least one multi-staple driver and at least one single staple driver. See, for example, fig. 12.

The end effector assembly 2000 disclosed in fig. 7 further comprises a firing member 2060 configured to move relative to the cartridge body 2024. During the firing stroke, the firing member 2060 is configured to traverse the cartridge body 2024 and drivingly engage the sled 2058 to move the sled 2058 through the cartridge body 2024. For example, a portion of the firing member 2060 is shown sized and positioned to fit within the longitudinal slot 2032. As disclosed in fig. 7, the portion of the firing member 2060 configured to fit within the longitudinal slot 2032 comprises a cutting edge 2061 configured to cut into tissue clamped between the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

The wedge sled 2058 disclosed in fig. 7 is configured to engage the

drivers

2040a, 2040b to lift the

drivers

2040a, 2040b to fire the staples 2012 supported thereon into the tissue. In the illustrated end effector assembly 2000, the intermediate wedges 2062 of the sled 2058 are slidable and/or translatable within the longitudinal slots 2032, and laterally positioned drive wedges or drive

rails

2064a, 2064b defined on the sled 2058 may engage the

staple drivers

2040a, 2040 b. For example, the sled 2058 shown in FIG. 7 includes drive wedges or

rails

2064a, 2064b configured to follow the firing path F during the firing stroke₁(FIG. 8A) and F₂(FIG. 8D) move to contact and fire path F₁、F₂A longitudinally aligned plurality of staple first drivers 2040a and second drivers 2040 b.

As disclosed in fig. 7, the slide 2058 includes

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b on either side of the central portion 2062. Nail binThe drive wedges 2064a on the first side 2027 of 2020 are configured to follow a first firing path F₁(FIG. 8A) and the drive wedge 2064b on the second side 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020 is configured to follow a second firing path F₂(fig. 8D) move.

Each of the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b disclosed in fig. 7 is configured to engage one of the

multiple staple drivers

2040a, 2040b to lift the

drivers

2040a, 2040b within the staple cavities 2028 and eject the staples 2012 from the cartridge body 2024. In the illustrated arrangement, the three steps 2045 of each first driver 2040a remain fixed relative to one another, and the three steps 2045 of each second driver 2040b remain fixed relative to one another. In other words, the steps 2045 of the

individual drivers

2040a, 2040b do not move and/or rotate relative to each other. Because the steps 2045 of the

individual drivers

2040a, 2040b do not move and/or rotate relative to one another, relative movement of the staples 2012 supported by each

driver

2040a, 2040b is also constrained. In addition, each

driver

2040a, 2040b has a relatively large base or footprint within the cartridge body 2042, which can further reduce the rotation and/or twisting of the

drivers

2040a, 2040 b. Thus, shifting and/or tilting of the staples 2012 during deployment can be prevented, minimized and/or controlled by the

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040 b. Multiple staple drivers, such as

drivers

2040a, 2040b, for example, can be incorporated into other staple cartridge and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

In various circumstances, the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b of the slide 2058 may be sized, configured, and positioned to engage the drive surfaces of the

drivers

2040a, 2040b, respectively. For example, the

drivers

2040a, 2040b can include ramp surfaces and/or rails configured to guide and/or receive a portion of the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b, respectively, as the firing member 2060 and sled 2058 move through the staple cartridge 2020.

The relative placement of the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b and their corresponding firing paths F to the

drivers

2040a, 2040b and the staples 2012 supported by the

drivers

2040a, 2040b, respectively₁、F₂May be selected to prevent, reduce and/or control the

driver

2040a,2040b and/or the staples 2012. For example, the geometry and/or materials of the

drivers

2040a, 2040b may be selected to place the center of mass (COM) of each

driver

2040a, 2040b, respectively, to correspond to the firing path F₁、F₂And (4) aligning. Additionally or alternatively, the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b and, thus, the firing path F₁、F₂May be positioned within the bins 2020 to extend through the center of mass (COM) of the

drivers

2040a, 2040b, respectively.

In other cases, the slide 2058 can include more than one

drive wedge

2064a, 2064b on each side of the intermediate portion 2062, as further described herein. For example, a plurality of

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b can be moved through either

side

2027, 2029 of the cartridge body 2024. Additionally or alternatively, the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b of the wedge sled 2058 may be configured to directly engage and drive the staples 2012 as further described herein.

Referring primarily to fig. 8A and 8D, first and

second drivers

2040a, 2040b overlay the firing path F of the

drive wedges

2064a, 2064b, respectively₁、F₂The above. For example, the first driver 2040a overlays the first firing path F₁And the second driver 2040b overlies the second firing path F₂The above. In addition, various portions of each

driver

2040a, 2040b are positioned on either side of the

respective drive wedge

2064a, 2064b, and thus positioned in the firing path F₁、F₂On either side of the base. Still referring to fig. 8A and 8D, the

drivers

2040a, 2040b are shown sized and configured such that the center of mass (COM) of each

driver

2040a, 2040b corresponds to the firing path F, e.g., of the driving

wedges

2064a, 2064b, respectively₁、F₂And (4) overlapping. In other words, each illustrated

driver

2040a, 2040b is relative to a corresponding firing path F₁、F₂And (4) balancing the mass.

For example, as disclosed in fig. 8A, the first portion 2047 of the first driver 2040a is positioned in the firing path F₁And the second portion 2049 of the first driver 2040a is positioned in the firing path F₁On the second side of the substrate. First part of the first driver 2040aThe sub-section 2047 has a first mass m₁And the second portion 2049 of the first driver 2040a has a first mass m equal to or substantially equal to ₁Mass m of₂. Additionally, as disclosed in fig. 8D, the first portion 2047 of the second driver 2040b is positioned in the firing path F₂And the second portion 2049 of the second driver 2040b is positioned in the firing path F₂On the second side of the substrate. The first portion 2047 of the second driver 2040b has a first mass m₁And the second portion 2049 of the second driver 2040b has a first mass m equal to or substantially equal to₁Mass m of₂. Because the

drivers

2040a, 2040b are relative to the respective firing paths F₁、F₂The masses are balanced so that twisting of the

drivers

2040a, 2040b and staples 2012 supported thereon during firing can be minimized and/or otherwise controlled. In addition, the groups of staples 2012 deployed by each

driver

2040a, 2040b can be synchronously lifted relative to the cartridge body 2024 and simultaneously driven or fired into the tissue. Mass-balanced drivers (e.g.,

drivers

2040a, 2040b) may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein, for example.

In addition, as disclosed in fig. 8-9, at least one cutout 2050 is defined into the first and second

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040 b. For example, respective cutouts 2050 are defined into the connecting flanges 2048 of the

drivers

2040a, 2040 b. The cutout 2050 is sized and positioned to adjust the mass of the

drivers

2040a, 2040b and relative to the firing path F ₁、F₂The center of mass (COM) of each

driver

2040a, 2040b is balanced. In addition, the cutouts 2050 are sized and positioned to accommodate the geometry of the staple cavities 2028, wherein the

drivers

2040a, 2040b are movably positioned.

In certain instances, a plurality of staple cavities can be defined into the staple cartridge, at least one staple cavity can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge, and at least one staple cavity can be angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. Referring to staple cartridge 2120 shown in fig. 10, for example, a plurality of staple cavities 2128 are defined into staple cartridge 2120, and plurality of staple cavities 2128 are parallel to longitudinal axis L of staple cartridge 2120.

In the illustrated staple cartridge 2120, a longitudinal slot 2032 is defined partially through the cartridge body 2124. Also defined in the cartridge body 2124 is a row of staple cavities 2128 on either side of the longitudinal slot 2032 that includes staple cavities 2128 oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L. In the illustrated staple cartridge 2120, a first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and a second row 2138 of staple cavities 2128 are adjacent longitudinal slot 2032, and the staple cavities 2128 in first row 2137 and in second row 2138 are oriented parallel to longitudinal axis L. For example, as disclosed in fig. 10, the staple cavities 2128 in the first row 2137 are aligned with an axis a parallel to the longitudinal axis L _bAnd (4) aligning.

Staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in FIG. 10 includes additional rows of staple cavities 2128. For example, the illustrated staple cartridge 2120 includes a third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and a fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128 that includes staple cavities 2128 that are angularly oriented with respect to longitudinal axis L. In such cases, the staple cavities 2128 in the third and

fourth rows

2135, 2136 are also angularly oriented with respect to the staple cavities 2128 in the first and second rows 2137, 2138, and are also angularly oriented with respect to each other. For example, the staple cavities 2128 in the third row 2135 are aligned with axis A_aAligned with the axis A_aAxis a of the first row 2137 traversing the longitudinal axis L and traversing the staple cavities 2128_b. As further disclosed in FIG. 10, the staple cavities 2128 in the fourth row 2136 extend along an axis that is transverse to the axis A of the staple cavities 2128 in the third row 2135_a. The first and

third rows

2137, 2135 of staple cavities 2128 are positioned on the first side 2127 of the illustrated cartridge body 2124, and the second and fourth rows 2136, 2138 are positioned on the second side 2129 of the illustrated cartridge body 2124.

In various circumstances, staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in fig. 10 can be used with end effector assembly 2000 shown in fig. 7. For example, staple cartridge 2120 can be loaded into the elongate channel of second jaw 2004 of end effector assembly 2000. Staple cartridge 2120 can be fired with single staple drivers, multiple staple drivers, and/or combinations thereof. For example, a multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples from the staple cavities 2128 in the first and

third rows

2137, 2135 on a first side 2127 of the cartridge body 2124, and another multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples from the staple cavities 2128 in the second and fourth rows 2136, 2138 on a second side 2129 of the cartridge body 2124. In various circumstances, the drivers can be positioned within the cartridge body 2124 such that the legs of the drivers are aligned with the staples positioned in the staple cavities 2128. In such instances, the drivers and/or staples supported thereon can be mass balanced, e.g., relative to a firing path of a sled, such as sled 2058 (fig. 7), which can be configured to traverse the cartridge body 2124 and engage the drivers therein.

In other cases, staple cartridge 2120 may not include a driver. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as firing member 2060 and/or sled 2058 (fig. 7), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage and/or drive staples movably positioned in the staple cavities 2128. In such cases, the staples can be mass balanced relative to the firing path of sled 2058. In other instances, the staples can be held in place within the cartridge body 2124 and can be crushed and/or otherwise deformed, for example, within the cartridge body 2124.

In various instances, the multi-staple driver may be balanced with respect to multiple driving wedges that simultaneously engage and cooperatively lift the driver during deployment. For example, a multi-staple driver 2240 and a pair of

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b are shown in FIG. 11. The multi-staple drivers 2240 are configured for use with, for example, the staple cartridge 2020. Additionally or alternatively, the drivers 2240 may be used with various other staple cartridges having an array of staples that matches the array 2011 (fig. 7) and corresponds to the arrangement of drivers 2240 shown in fig. 11.

In various circumstances, staples fired from staple cartridge 2120 can be formed to a variable formed height. For example, the height of the staple between one of the staple legs and the base may be greater than the height between the other staple leg and the base. In such cases, the staples may exert a greater compressive force on the tissue at the shorter ends of the staples. As described in greater detail herein, the height of the staples can vary when the staple drivers comprise a step or height differential (see, e.g., fig. 79), and/or when the staple forming pockets in the anvil comprise a step or height differential (see, e.g., fig. 80).

The compressive force exerted by the angled staples on the tissue may vary longitudinally and laterally as the angled staples deform to a variable height. In some cases, for example, it may be desirable to compress tissue closer to (i.e., laterally inboard of) the cut line more than tissue further from (i.e., laterally outboard of) the cut line. In such cases, the lateral tissue changes provided by the angled staples that have been deformed to different compression heights may exert a greater compressive force on the laterally medial portion of the tissue and a reduced compressive force on the laterally lateral portion of the tissue.

Referring again to fig. 10, in some instances, staples ejected from the third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and the fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128 can vary to a variable height. For example, the staples may have a reduced height proximal to the longitudinal axis L and a greater height distal to the longitudinal axis L. Additionally or alternatively, staples ejected from the first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and the second row 2138 can vary to form a uniform height, which can be less than the reduced or lesser height of staples ejected from the third row 2135 and the fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128. In such cases, the compressive force exerted on the tissue may be closest to the cutting line at most, and may gradually decrease farther outboard toward the lateral side of the staple line.

Each driver 2240 disclosed in fig. 11 includes a plurality of slots or

staple supporting legs

2242a, 2242b, 2242 c. For example, each driver 2240 includes a first leg 2242a, a second leg 2242b, and a third leg 2242c that are each sized and configured to support one of the staples, such as one of the staples 2012 (fig. 7). For example, the base of the nail may be positioned in each of the

brackets

2242a, 2242b, 2242 c. Referring again to staple cartridge 2020 shown in fig. 7, a first cradle 2242a may be aligned with staples 2012 in a first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, a second cradle 2242b may be aligned with staples 2012 in a first middle row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and a third cradle 2242c may be aligned with staples 2012 in a first inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In such cases, the first leg 2242a corresponds to an outer leg, the second leg 2242b corresponds to an intermediate leg, and the third leg 2242c corresponds to an inner leg. In various circumstances, another driver arrangement can be positioned on an opposite side of the staple cartridge, and the other driver arrangement can be a mirror reflection of the driver arrangement shown in fig. 11.

The

brackets

2242a, 2242b, 2242c shown in fig. 11 are defined into the support member 2248. The support members 2248 may support staples on multiple rows of staple cavities. In addition, the support members 2248 may support staples 2012 oriented at different angles, for example, relative to the longitudinal axis L of the staple cartridge and/or relative to the longitudinal firing path of the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264 b. Referring to the support member 2248 shown, the support member 2248 is angularly oriented with respect to the firing path of the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264 b. Additionally, the support members 2248 are angularly oriented with respect to at least one of the

legs

2242a, 2242b, 2242c defined therein. For example, the intermediate support 2242b disclosed in fig. 11 is angularly oriented with respect to the support member 2248. Further, as disclosed in fig. 11, the outer and

inner supports

2242c, 2242a are aligned with the support members 2248.

In some instances, the height of the support members 2248 may be uniform, or substantially uniform, such that each staple supported by the support members 2248 is positioned at the same height or elevation. In other instances, the support members 2248 may include steps having different heights and/or elevations. For example, the height of the steps can be varied to control the height of the formed staples to control the compression of the tissue captured within the formed staples. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of each of the

standoffs

2242a, 2242b, 2242c can be varied to control the height of the formed staple, thereby controlling the compression of the tissue captured within the formed staple.

Each of the

brackets

2242a, 2242b, 2242c disclosed in fig. 11 includes a first end 2244 and a second end 2246. The first end 2244 of each

leg

2242a, 2242b, 2242c is distal from the second end 2246 of the

same leg

2242a, 2242b, 2242 c. Additionally, an axis is defined between the first and

second ends

2244, 2246 of each

cradle

2242a, 2242b, 2242 c. For example, the first axis A_aDefined by a first support 2242a and a third support 2242c, and a second axis A_bDefined by second leg 2242 b. As shown in FIG. 11, the second axis A_bTransverse to the first axis A _a. In some cases, the second axis A_bMay be perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the first axis A_a。

Still referring to FIG. 11, the multi-staple driver 2240 includes guide rails 2245a, 2045b connected to a support member 2248.

Guide rails

2245a, 2245b are positioned to engage the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b of the wedge sled. For example, the

guide rails

2245a, 2245b are shown with the firing path F of the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b₁、F₂And (4) aligning. In such cases,

guide rails

2245a, 2245b may provide an elongated surface area for receiving driving forces from the driving wedges and for stabilizing multi-staple driver 2240 when driving

wedges

2264a, 2264b drivingly engage

guide rails

2245a, 2245 b.

Driver 2240 may comprise a plurality of separately formed components that may be glued, welded, and/or otherwise adhered together. For example, support members 2248 may be coupled with

guide rails

2245a, 2245b to form a drive 2240. In other cases, each driver 2240 may be an integrally formed component that includes a support member 2248 and

guide rails

2245a, 2245 b.

The driver 2240 disclosed in fig. 11 covers the firing path F of the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b₁、F₂The above. In addition, various portions of each illustrated driver 2240 are positioned on either side of the

wedges

2264a, 2264 b. As shown in FIG. 11, the drivers 2240 are sized and configured such that the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2240 is equidistant from the drive axis, e.g., from the firing path F of the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b ₁、F₂Equidistant. For example, the firing path F shown in FIG. 11₁、F₂Are separated by a width w, and the center of mass of each driver 2240 is positioned at firing path F₁、F₂In the meantime. As shown in FIG. 11, the center of mass of each driver 2240 is aligned with the first firing path F₁Laterally offset by a width w/2 and from the second firing path F₂Laterally offset by a width w/2. Thus, each illustrated driver 2240 is relative to the firing path F₁、F₂And (4) balancing the mass. Because the driver 2240 is relative to the firing path F₁、F₂Mass balancing, twisting of the driver 2240 and staple during deployment may be prevented, minimized, and/or otherwise controlled. Quality balancingA weighted driver (e.g., driver 2240) may be incorporated into other staple cartridge and end effector assemblies disclosed herein, for example.

In other instances, the firing member may comprise a single drive wedge aligned with driver 2240, and driver 2240 may be mass balanced relative to the drive wedge. For example, the drive wedges may define a firing path that extends through a center of mass (COM) of each driver 2240. In such cases, the drive wedge may have a greater width to increase the stability of the driver 2240. In other instances, the firing member may include three or more drive wedges, and the cumulative drive force exerted by the drive wedges may be balanced relative to the geometry of the driver 2240.

Each

guide rail

2245a, 2245b and firing path F disclosed in FIG. 11₁、F₂One firing path aligned. Specifically, the first guide rail 2245a and the first firing path F₁Aligned and second guide rail 2245b is in alignment with second firing path F₂And (4) aligning. The

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b are configured to contact the

guide rails

2245a, 2245b to lift the driver 2240 and the staples supported thereon. Still referring to FIG. 11, the

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b are shown longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the first wedge 2264a follows the second wedge 2264b by a distance x shown in FIG. 11. In addition, first guide rail 2245a is longitudinally staggered with respect to second guide rail 2245 b. For example, second guide rail 2245b is distally offset from first guide rail 2245a by a distance y shown in fig. 11. In the arrangement disclosed in fig. 11, distance x is equal or substantially equal to distance y, such that

drive wedges

2264a, 2264b simultaneously contact and drive

guide rails

2245a, 2245b, respectively, during the firing stroke.

Because the driving

wedges

2264a, 2264b disclosed in fig. 11 simultaneously engage and drivingly elevate and are equidistant from the

guide rails

2245a, 2245b, respectively, on either side of the center of mass (COM) of the driver 2240, the cumulative driving force is balanced throughout the deployment of the driver 2240. Thus, twisting and/or rotation of the drivers 2240, and thus the staples supported thereon, may be prevented, minimized and/or controlled. Longitudinally offset drive wedges (e.g., drive

wedges

2264a, 2264b) may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein, for example.

An arrangement of multiple staple drivers 2340a and single staple drivers 2340b is disclosed in fig. 12. Because the arrangement of

drivers

2340a, 2340b corresponds to the array 2011 of staples 2012 shown in fig. 7, the

drivers

2340a, 2340b may be used with the staple cartridge 2020 (fig. 7). Additionally or alternatively, the

drivers

2340a, 2340b may be used with various other staple cartridges having an array of staples corresponding to the arrangement of

drivers

2340a, 2340b illustrated in fig. 12.

The

drivers

2340a, 2340b include a plurality of slots or

staple supporting brackets

2342a, 2342b, 2342 c. For example, the multi-staple driver 2340a includes a first leg 2342a and a second leg 2342b that are each sized and configured to support a staple, such as two of the staples 2012 illustrated in fig. 7. In addition, the single staple driver 2340b includes a third cradle 2342c that is sized and configured to support another staple, such as another one of the staples 2012 illustrated in fig. 7. For example, the base of the staple 2012 can reside in each of the

racks

2342a, 2342b, 2342 c.

Referring again to staple cartridge 2020 illustrated in fig. 7, a first shelf 2342a may be aligned with staples 2012 in a first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, a second shelf 2342b may be aligned with staples 2012 in a middle row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and a third shelf 2342c may be aligned with staples 2012 in an inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In such cases, the first leg 2342a corresponds to an outer leg, the second leg 2342b corresponds to an intermediate leg, and the third leg 2342c corresponds to an inner leg. Additionally, another driver arrangement may be positioned on an opposite side of the staple cartridge 2020, which may be a mirror image of the driver arrangement disclosed in fig. 12.

Still referring to fig. 12, each of the

brackets

2342a, 2342b, 2342c is defined into a step and/or support portion 2345. In addition, each of the

drivers

2340a, 2340b includes a

base portion

2348, 2349, respectively. The base portion 2348 of each plurality of staple drivers 2340a extends between the steps 2345 of the drivers 2340 a. In addition, the base portion 2349 of each single staple driver 2340b extends from its step 2345.

As disclosed in the context of figure 12 of the drawings,each

driver

2340a, 2340b and firing path F within the staple cartridge₁、F₂And (4) aligning. Specifically, each first driver 2340a is associated with a first firing path F₁Aligned and each second driver 2340b is in a second firing path F₂And (4) aligning. The illustrated

drive wedges

2364a, 2364b are configured to follow the firing path F during the firing stroke₁、F₂And (4) moving. In addition, drive

wedges

2364a,

2364b contact drivers

2340a, 2340b, respectively, to lift drivers 2240a, 2340b and the staples supported thereon.

The

bases

2348, 2349 may be used as counterweights to adjust and/or control the center of mass of the

drivers

2340a, 2340 b. For example, the geometry and material of each base 2348, 2349 may be selected to maintain and/or shift the center of mass of each

driver

2340a, 2340b to correspond to the corresponding firing path F ₁、F₂And (4) aligning. As shown in fig. 12, the first base portion 2348 includes at least one cutout 2350. The size, placement, and geometry of the cutout 2350 are selected to cause the first driver 2340a to be relative to the first firing path F₁And (4) balancing the mass. For example, each first base portion 2348 may be configured to shift or maintain the center of mass of the multi-staple driver 2340a from the first firing path F₁In alignment, and each second base 2349 can be configured to shift the center of mass of the single staple driver 2340b from the second firing path F₂And (4) aligning.

In addition,

bases

2348, 2349 provide an elongate surface area for stabilizing driver 2340 when driving

wedges

2364a, 2364b are drivingly engaged with

drivers

2340a, 2340 b. For example, a larger footprint of the

drivers

2340a, 2340b may promote stability and prevent torque and/or rotation of the

drivers

2340a, 2340b during deployment. Further, because the

bases

2348, 2349 provide a large surface area, the driving force can be distributed to promote balanced driver and staple deployment. For example, drivers having elongated surface regions (such as base portions 2348, 2349)

May be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

Still referring to fig. 12, the

drive wedges

2364a, 2364b are shown longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, first wedge 2364a follows second wedge 2364b by a distance x. As further shown in fig. 12, the

drivers

2340a, 2340b are shown staggered longitudinally by a distance y. In the arrangement shown, distance x is different from distance y, so that the

drive wedges

2364a, 2364b do not contact the drivers 2340a, 2340 simultaneously. For example, in the arrangement shown, first wedge 2364a contacts first driver 2340a before second wedge 2364b contacts second driver 2340 b. In such cases, deployment of the first driver 2340a, and thus movement of the first and

second supports

2342a, 2342c, is initiated prior to deployment of the second nail 2340b, and thus movement of the third support 2342 c. Thus, the staples aligned with the first driver 2340a are fired before the staples aligned with the second driver 2340 b.

In some instances, it may be desirable to fire one staple or group of staples before another staple or group of staples. For example, to control bleeding and/or fluid flow within the stapled tissue, staples positioned further inboard, such as staples adjacent to the longitudinal slot and thus the cut line, may be fired before the further outboard staples.

In other instances, staples aligned with the second driver 2340b may be fired before staples aligned with the first driver 2340 a. Alternatively, the first and

second drivers

2340a and 2340b can be fired simultaneously such that three staples supported by adjacent multi-staple and single-

staple drivers

2340a and 2340b simultaneously pierce and capture tissue.

The arrangement of the double staple driver 2440 is shown in FIG. 13. As arranged in fig. 13, the double staple driver 2440 is configured to fire staples from a staple cartridge having four adjacent rows of staple cavities. For example, the driver arrangement shown in fig. 13 can be configured to fire staples from four rows of staple cavities on one side of a longitudinal slot in the cartridge body, and a corresponding mirror image driver arrangement can be configured to fire staples from four rows of staple cavities on the other side of the longitudinal slot.

In other instances, a single row of dual staple drivers 2440 can be positioned on a first side of the staple cartridge and a single row of dual staple drivers 2440 can be positioned on an opposite second side of the staple cartridge. In such instances, the dual staple driver 2440 can be arranged to fire staples from two adjacent rows of staple cavities on either side of the cutting line. In other cases, rows of double staple drivers 2440 can be added to the arrangement shown in FIG. 13. For example, the dual staple drivers can be arranged to fire staples from six or more adjacent rows of staple cavities.

The dual staple driver 2440 shown in FIG. 13 includes a pair of slot or

staple support brackets

2442a, 2442 b. For example, each dual staple driver 2440 includes a first bracket 2442a and a second bracket 2442b that are sized and configured to support a staple, such as one of the staples 2012 (FIG. 7). For example, the base of the staple may be positioned in each

bracket

2442a, 2442 b.

The first leg 2442a of one of the dual staple drivers 2440 can be aligned with a staple in one row of staple cavities and the second leg 2442b of the same dual staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple in another row of staple cavities. In addition, the first leg 2442a of another dual staple driver 2440 can be aligned with staples in another row of staple cavities and the second leg 2442b of that dual staple driver 2440 can be aligned with staples in yet another row of staple cavities.

Still referring to FIG. 13, each dual staple driver 2440 includes steps and/or support portions 2445 and each

bracket

2442a, 2442b is defined into one of the steps 2445. In addition, each of the drivers 2440 includes a base or connecting flange 2448 that extends between the steps 2445 of the dual staple driver 2440. Because the steps 2445 are connected by the connecting flanges 2448, the

brackets

2442a, 2442b are connected such that coordinated and/or synchronized staple deployment can be induced by the dual staple driver 2440.

The steps 2445 of the driver 2440 may be the same height. Alternatively, in some cases, the driver 2440 may include steps of different heights. In other cases, different drivers 2440 may have steps of different heights, for example.

As disclosed in fig. 13, each double staple driver 2440 overlies a pair of firing paths. In particular, one of the drivers 2440 overlaps the driver on the first firing path F₁And a second firing path F₂And the other of the drivers 2440 overlays the third firing path F₃And fourthFiring path F₄The above. A plurality of driving

wedges

2464a, 2464b, 2464d are also shown in fig. 13. As shown in FIG. 13, the

drive wedges

2464a, 2464b, 2464c, 2464d are configured to contact the double staple driver 2440 to lift the double staple driver 2240 and the staples positioned thereon.

Still referring to fig. 13, each step 2445 includes a center of mass (COM). In addition, the firing path F₁、F₂、F₃、F₄Is aligned with the center of mass of step 2045. Thus, each step 2445 is relative to the corresponding firing path F₁、F₂、F₃、F₄And (4) balancing the mass.

In various circumstances, the base 2448 extending between the steps 2445 can also be relative to the respective firing path F ₁、F₂、F₃、F₄Mass balance such that the base 2448 maintains the mass balance of the dual staple driver 2440. In some cases, the base 2448 can contribute insignificant and/or negligible shifting and/or variation to the mass balance of the dual staple driver 2440. In such cases, the mass balance of driver 2240 can be approximated by, for example, the mass balance of its step 2445.

Still referring to FIG. 13, the

drive wedges

2464a, 2464b are shown longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the first wedge 2464a follows the second wedge 2464b by a distance x. In addition, the center of mass (COM) of the steps 2445 of each dual staple driver 2440 is staggered longitudinally by a distance x. In such cases, the

drive wedges

2464a, 2464b may be moved into engagement with the driver 2440 simultaneously. Because the wedges 2464a, 2464c contact each driver 2444 simultaneously, the deployment of the staple pairs supported by each driver 2440 can be synchronized and the staples can be driven or fired into tissue simultaneously. For example, longitudinally staggered wedges such as

wedges

2464a, 2464b may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

In various circumstances, the geometry of the drive wedge can be selected to balance the forces exerted on the staples and drivers during deployment in conjunction with the placement of the staples and drivers within the staple cartridge. Additionally, in some cases, the geometry of the drive wedge may be selected to coordinate the deployment of the staples.

For example, the drivers may include staggered and/or longitudinally offset drive wedges that may be configured to simultaneously engage angularly oriented staples and/or angularly oriented drivers within the staple cartridge. For example, staggered drive wedges may be moved into simultaneous engagement with a first or proximal end of a driver and a second or distal end of the same driver. Because the two ends of the angled driver are engaged simultaneously by the interleaved wedges, the interleaved drive wedges simultaneously lift the driver. Thus, twisting and/or rotation of the driver, and thus the staples supported thereon, during deployment may be prevented, limited and/or controlled.

In other driverless embodiments described further herein, the staggered drive wedges are movable into engagement with both a first or proximal end of an angled staple and a second or distal end of the same angled staple. Because the two ends of the angled staple are simultaneously engaged by the interleaved wedges, the interleaved drive wedges simultaneously lift the staple. Thus, twisting and/or rotation of the staple during deployment may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

Additionally or alternatively, the driver geometry can define at least one firing path that is aligned with non-angularly oriented staples and/or drivers within the staple cartridge. For example, the firing path can be collinear with the axis of the various drivers and staples, which are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. Because the firing path is collinear with the staple and/or driver axis, the staples and/or drivers may be balanced relative to the drive wedge and the torque and/or rotation of the drivers and/or staples may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

The arrangement of the driver 2540, the

staples

2512a, 2512b and the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b, 2564c of the wedge sled 2558 is shown in fig. 14 and 15. The

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b, 2564c disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to follow a firing path F that extends through the staple cartridge, respectively₁、F₂And F₃(fig. 14) move. In various instances, the arrangement of drivers 2540 can be used in a staple cartridge havingThere is an arrangement of

staples

2512a, 2512b and staple cavities corresponding to the driver arrangement shown.

As disclosed in fig. 14, the drivers 2540 and the

staples

2512a, 2512b are arranged in

rows

2534, 2536. In addition, the various drivers 2540 and staples 2512a in each row are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L, and the various drivers 2540 and staples 2512b in each row are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example, the illustrated arrangement includes a pair of

longitudinal rows

2534, 2536, and the drivers 2540 and

staples

2512a, 2512b in each

row

2534, 2536 alternate between a parallel orientation and an angled orientation relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example, the drivers 2540 shown in the first row 2534 include a first driver 2540a oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, a second driver 2540b oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L, a third driver 2540c oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and a fourth driver 2540d oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

As disclosed in FIG. 14, the second 2540b and fourth 2540d drivers of the first row 2534 are aligned with the first firing path F₁And (4) aligning. More specifically, the proximal and

distal ends

2546 and 2544 of the second and

fourth drivers

2540b and 2540d are in communication with the first firing path F₁And (4) aligning. In such a case, the first firing path F₁Extending through the center of mass (COM) of the second 2540b and fourth 2540d drives. Because the first firing path F₁Aligned with the second driver 2540b and the fourth driver 2540d, the second driver 2540b and the fourth driver 2540d are therefore opposite the first firing path F₁The masses are balanced and the twisting and/or rotation of the second 2540b and fourth 2540d drivers shown in fig. 14, and thus the staples supported thereon, can be prevented, limited and/or controlled.

As disclosed in fig. 14, the first driver 2540a is aligned with an axis a that is transverse to the longitudinal axis L and the firing path F₁、F₂And F₃. Additionally, the third driver 2540c is oriented parallel to the axis a. As shown in FIG. 14, the first and third drivers 2540a and 2540c are angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L and overlay multiple firing paths . For example, the first driver 2540a and the third driver 2540c are shown overlying the first firing path F₁And a second firing path F₂The above. As shown in FIG. 14, a first firing path F₁Extends through the proximal ends 2546 of the first and third drivers 2540a and 2540c, and a second firing path F₂Extending through the distal ends 2544 of the first and third drivers 2540a and 2540 c.

The center of mass (COM) of the first 2540a and second 2540c drivers is on the first firing path F₁And a second firing path F₂In the middle. For example, the center of mass of the first and second drivers 2540a and 2540c is aligned with the first firing path F₁And a second firing path F₂Equidistant and therefore the drivers 2540a, 2540c relative to the first firing path F₁And a second firing path F₂And (4) balancing the mass. Thus, twisting and/or rotation of the second and

fourth drivers

2540b and 2540d, and thus the staples supported thereon, illustrated in FIG. 14 can be prevented, limited and/or controlled.

In addition, the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564c shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are longitudinally staggered. For example, the first drive wedge 2564a distally follows the second drive wedge 2564b by a distance x, and the second drive wedge 2564b distally follows the third drive wedge 2564c by a distance x. As shown in fig. 14, the proximal and

distal ends

2546 and 2544 of the angularly oriented third driver 2540c are offset a longitudinal distance y. In the arrangement shown in fig. 14 and 15, the longitudinal distance y between the proximal and

distal ends

2546 and 2544 of the third driver 2540c is equal to the longitudinal distance x between the first and

second drive wedges

2564a and 2564b, the first drive wedge being aligned with the proximal end 2546 of the third driver 2540c and the second drive wedge being aligned with the distal end 2544 of the third driver 2540 c.

In the arrangement disclosed in fig. 14 and 15, the first and

second drive wedges

2564a and 2564b are simultaneously moved into engagement with the third driver 2540 c. For example, while the second drive wedge 2564b contacts the distal end 2544 of the third staple driver 2540c, the first drive wedge 2564a contacts the proximal end 2546 of the third staple driver 2540 c. Because the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b, 2564c shown in FIG. 14 are configured to engage the ends of the angled drivers, the lifting force is applied directly beneath the legs of the staples supported on the angled third driver 2540 c. Thus, the staple leg is further stabilized and tilting and/or tipping of the staple leg during deployment may be prevented, minimized and/or controlled.

The first and

second drive wedges

2564a, 2564b shown in fig. 14 and 15 are configured to similarly engage additional drivers 2540 in the first row 2534 and, in turn, deploy the

staples

2512a, 2512b supported thereon. For example, the first drive wedge 2564a is configured to subsequently contact the proximal end 2546 of the first driver 2540a when the second drive wedge 2564b contacts the distal end 2544 of the first driver 2440 a. Additionally, the first drive wedge 2564a is configured to sequentially engage and fire the

parallel drivers

2540b, 2540d and staples 2512a in the first row 2534.

In various instances, the proximal and

distal ends

2546 and 2544 of the third driver 2540c can be equidistant from the center of mass of the third driver 2540 c. Because the

drive wedges

2464a and 2464b disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to simultaneously contact opposite ends of the angularly oriented third staple driver 2540c and exert a driving force and/or lifting force on the opposite ends of the staple driver 2540c that are equidistant from the center of mass, the staple driver 2540c is balanced throughout its deployment. Thus, rotation and/or twisting of the third staple driver 2540c can be prevented, avoided and/or controlled.

In other instances, the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b may not contact the

ends

2546, 2544 of the angled staple drivers 2540. In such instances, however, the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b can be configured to engage the angled staple driver 2540 at a location equidistant from the center of mass of the driver 2540. In addition, the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b can be sufficiently biased to simultaneously contact and lift the spaced apart position of the driver 2540 c.

In addition, the second and

third drive wedges

2564b, 2564c shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to similarly engage the drivers 2540 in the second row 2536 and, in turn, deploy the

staples

2512a, 2512b supported thereon. For example, still referring to the arrangement shown in fig. 14, the drivers 2540 in the second row 2536 are oriented at an angle such that the distance between the proximal and

distal ends

2546 and 2544 of each driver is also separated by a longitudinal distance y equal to the longitudinal distance x between the second and

third drive wedges

2564b and 2564 c.

In other instances, the longitudinal distance between the second and

third drive wedges

2564b and 2564c can be greater than and/or less than the longitudinal distance between the first and

second drive wedges

2564a and 2564 b. Additionally or alternatively, the angled staples 2512b in the second row 2536 can be oriented at a different angle than the angled staples 2512b in the first row 2534. Further, in various circumstances, additional rows of drivers 2540 and

staples

2512a, 2512b can be added to the arrangement shown in fig. 14, and additional drive wedges can be configured to engage the additional drivers 2540 to fire the

additional staples

2512a, 2512 b. In further cases, the arrangement can also include, for example, a single row of drivers 2540 and

staples

2512a, 2512 b.

The arrangement of

staples

2512a, 2512b shown in FIG. 14 can also be fired from a driverless staple cartridge. For example, referring to fig. 16, the

staples

2512a, 2512b can be disposed within a driverless cartridge, such as the staple cartridge 2620 (fig. 37) described further herein. The

staples

2512a, 2512b in the driverless staple cartridge can be directly engaged and/or driven by the sled and/or firing member. For example, the

staples

2512a, 2512b can include slider engagement surfaces configured to be directly engageable by the staple engagement surfaces of one or more of the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b and/or 2564c of the wedge sled 2558.

As described herein, each staple 2512a, 2512b can be relative to a firing path F that aligns with the

staples

2512a, 2512b₁、F₂、F₃And (4) balancing the mass. For example, referring to FIG. 16, staples 2512a arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis L and the firing path F₁、F₂、F₃One firing path aligned. In thatIn the illustrated arrangement, one of the

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b, 2564c drivingly engages the parallel staples 2512a along the length of the base of the staples 2512 a. Additionally, the center of mass and firing path F of each parallel staple 2512a₁、F₂、F₃One firing path aligned. In other words, firing path F₁、F₂、F₃Extends through the center of mass of each parallel staple 2512a, and thus the staples 2512a are in relation to the respective firing paths F during deployment₁、F₂、F₃And (4) balancing the mass. In such arrangements, twisting and/or rotation of the staples 2512a during firing can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

Additionally, where the staple arrangement shown in FIG. 14 is used in a driverless cartridge, a pair of offset

drive wedges

2564a, 2564b, 2564c are configured to be simultaneously moved into engagement with each angularly oriented staple 2512 b. For example, the first and

second drive wedges

2564a and 2564b can be configured to simultaneously contact the angled staples 2512b in the first row 2534, and the second and

third drive wedges

2564b and 2564c can be configured to simultaneously contact the angled staples 2512b in the second row 2536. The wedge sled 2558 is then configured to continue translating relative to the

staples

2512a, 2512b to sequentially contact and directly drive the

staples

2512a, 2512b from the driverless staple cartridge.

As described herein, a driverless staple cartridge can be used to hold and fire an array of staples comprising angularly oriented staples. An end effector assembly 2600 comprising a first jaw 2002, a second jaw 2004, a frame 2006, an articulation joint 2009, and a driver-less staple cartridge 2620 is disclosed in fig. 37. The staple cartridge 2620 may be a single use and/or disposable cartridge that can be replaced with another staple cartridge after firing. Fig. 37 discloses a staple cartridge 2620 that includes a deck 2626, a cartridge body 2624, and a housing 2622 that partially surrounds or encloses the cartridge body 2624. Additionally, an array of staples, such as the staples 2612 (fig. 39A and 39B), for example, can be removably positioned in the cartridge body 2624.

In some instances, staple cartridge 2620 can be integrally formed with end effector assembly 2600 and/or can be permanently secured within one of

jaws

2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, the end effector assembly 2600 may be a single use and/or disposable end effector. In other instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can be secured to the end effector assembly 2600 and can be reloaded with additional staples for, e.g., subsequent firing.

Referring to the staple cartridge 2620 illustrated in fig. 37, a longitudinal slot 2632 is defined at least partially through the cartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632 extends along a longitudinal axis L that extends between the proximal end 2623 and the distal end 2625 of the cartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632 shown in fig. 37 extends from the proximal end 2623 toward the distal end 2625 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body 2624.

In some instances, the longitudinal slots 2632 can traverse the entire length of the cartridge body 2624. In other instances, the longitudinal slot 2632 can extend from the distal end 2623 toward the proximal end 2625, for example. In other instances, the cartridge body 2624 can not comprise predetermined and/or pre-shaped longitudinal slots. For example, the firing member and/or cutting element can transect and/or cut the cartridge body 2624, e.g., during a firing stroke.

The staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in fig. 37 is configured to fire an array of angled staples 2612 (fig. 38A and 38B), which can be oriented as the staple array 2011 shown in fig. 7, for example. The angled staples 2612 can be removably positioned in angled staple cavities 2628 shown in fig. 37, which are defined into the cartridge body 2624. For example, the staple cavities 2628 are shown oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In addition, the illustrated arrangement of the staple cavities 2628 corresponds to the arrangement of the staples 2612 positioned in the cartridge 2620. Each staple cavity 2628 shown in fig. 37 includes an opening 2630 in the deck 2626, and each opening 2630 includes a proximal end and a distal end. The staple axes can extend between the proximal and distal ends, and the staple axes of the openings 2630 shown in fig. 37 are skewed and/or angled relative to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2624. In the staple cartridge 2620 of fig. 37, all of the staple cavities 2628 are angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the various staple cavities 2628 are angularly oriented relative to the other staple cavities 2628.

The staple cavities 2628 shown in FIG. 37 are arranged in multiple rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2632. For example, staple cavities 2628 are arranged in a first inner row 2633, a first outer row 2635, and a first intermediate row 2637 on a first side 2627 of the longitudinal slot 2632, and staple cavities 2628 are arranged in a second inner row 2634, a second outer row 2638, and a second intermediate row 2636 on a second side 2629 of the longitudinal slot 2632. Although the staple cavities 2628 do not intersect or otherwise contact each other, the

longitudinal rows

2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 of the staple cavities 2628 overlap. For example, the staple cavities 2628 extend laterally outward and/or inward past the staple cavities 2628 in an adjacent row of staple cavities 2628, and the staple cavities 2628 extend proximally and/or distally past the staple cavities 2628 in an adjacent row of staple cavities 2628. Because the staple cavities 2628 and the staples positioned therein are arranged in overlapping arrays, bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue can be controlled. In staple cartridge 2620 shown in FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628 and their rows are symmetrical with respect to the longitudinal slot 2632.

In other instances, more or less than three rows of staple cavities 2628 can be positioned on each side of the longitudinal slot 2632, and in some instances, one of the

sides

2627, 2629 of the staple cartridge 2620 can include a different number of rows of staple cavities 2628 than the

other side

2627, 2629 of the staple cartridge 2620. In some cases, the staple cavities 2628 may not longitudinally and/or laterally overlap the staple cavities 2628 in adjacent rows. Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, the staple cavities 2628 and/or rows thereof can be asymmetric with respect to the longitudinal slots 2632 and/or the longitudinal axis L.

Still referring to FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628 in each longitudinal row are shown as being parallel or substantially parallel. In other words, the staple cavities 2628 in the first inside row 2633 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the first outside row 2635 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the first middle row 2637 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the second inside row 2634 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the second outside row 2636 are parallel to each other, and the staple cavities 2628 in the second middle row 2638 are parallel to each other.

As also shown in fig. 37, the staple cavities 2628 in each longitudinal row are angularly oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 in an adjacent longitudinal row on the same side of the longitudinal slot 2632. For example, on a first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624, the staple cavities 2628 in the first intermediate row 2637 are angularly oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 in the first inner row 2633 and in the first outer row 2635. Additionally, on a second side 2629 of the cartridge body 2624, the staple cavities 2628 in the second intermediate row 2638 are angularly oriented with respect to the staple cavities 2628 in the second inner row 2634 and the second outer row 2636.

In other instances, only a portion of the staple cavities 2628 in each

longitudinal row

2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can be parallel to one another and/or less than all of the

longitudinal rows

2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can include staple cavities 2628 that are parallel to one another. Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2628 can be randomly oriented. In some cases, at least one of the staple cavities 2628 in a

longitudinal row

2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can be parallel to at least one of the staple cavities 2628 in an adjacent

longitudinal row

2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638. In certain instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can comprise at least one staple cavity 2628 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2624. See, for example, fig. 11.

Still referring to fig. 37, the illustrated end effector assembly 2600 includes a firing bar 2660 movably positioned relative to the cartridge body 2624. The firing bar 2660 is configured to traverse the cartridge body 2624 to fire the staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2628 (fig. 38A and 38B). The illustrated firing bar 2660 also includes a cutting blade 2661 that is configured to incise tissue as the firing bar 2660 translates between the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004.

The illustrated firing member 2660 is sized and positioned to fit within the longitudinal slot 2632 and drivingly engage a sled, such as a sled 2658 (fig. 37-38B), a sled 2758 (fig. 39-39B), or a sled 2858 (fig. 40) movably positioned within the driverless cartridge 2620. As the firing bar 2660 translates through the longitudinal slot 2632, the firing bar 2660 moves the sled 2658 (fig. 37-38B), 2758 (fig. 39-39B), or 2858 (fig. 40) through the cartridge body 2624.

The slider 2658 is disclosed in fig. 37-38B. The slides 2658 are sized and positioned to directly engage the staples 2612 positioned in the driverless cartridge 2620 (fig. 37). The illustrated slide 2658 includes a central portion 2659 and a drive wedge or drive rail 2664. The drive wedge 2664 includes a staple engaging or staple contacting surface 2666 that is a ramped and/or sloped surface that extends from the distal end to the proximal end of the slider 2658. As shown in fig. 37-38B, the inclined surfaces 2666 of the wedges 2664 have equal or substantially equal inclinations or angles.

Each staple contacting surface 2666 shown in fig. 37-38B is positioned to directly contact a staple 2612 positioned in the staple cartridge 2620 (fig. 38A and 38B). More specifically, the staple contacting surfaces 2666 of the driving wedge 2664 are configured to contact the base 2614 of each staple 2612 (fig. 38B) and lift the base 2614 of a staple 2612 upward to eject the staple 2612 from the staple cavities 2628. For example, to lift the staples 2612 from the lowered and/or unfired position to the raised and/or fired position, the distal end 2667 of each inclined surface 2666 engages the base 2614 of the staple 2612 and the inclined surfaces 2666 move distally through the base 2614 of the staples 2612.

In the illustrated arrangement, the firing bar 2660 and its cutting edge 2661 are configured to slide and/or translate within the longitudinal slot 2632. In addition, the drive wedge 2664 shown in FIGS. 37-38B as being laterally outboard of the firing bar 2660 and cutting edge 2661 is configured to contact staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) positioned in the staple cavities 2628 (FIG. 37). A plurality of drive wedges 2664 are positioned on either side of a central portion 2659 of the wedge slide 2658. For example, in the illustrated slider 2658, four

drive wedges

2664a, 2664b, 2664c, 2664d are positioned on each side of the central portion 2659.

Further, in the arrangement disclosed in fig. 37-38B, a plurality of driving

wedges

2664a, 2664B, 2664c, 2664d are configured to engage a single angled spike 2612. For example, the first and

second wedges

2664a and 2664b can be configured to engage the staples 6212 positioned in the first outer row 2633 of staple cavities 2628, the second and

third wedges

2664b and 2664c can be configured to engage the staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637, and the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d can be configured to engage the staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635.

In various circumstances, it is desirable to support and drive the staples 2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in fig. 37 from multiple positions along the base 2614 (fig. 38B) of the staple 2612. For example, staples 2612 that are longitudinally aligned with the firing path of the drive wedge 2664 are supported along the entire length of the base 2614 of the staple 2612. For example, when the staples 2612 are angled relative to the firing path of the sled 2658, as shown in FIGS. 37-38B, the staples 2612 can be supported at multiple positions along the base by the use of multiple drive wedges 2664. Because the angled staples 2612 are drivingly supported at multiple locations along their base 2614, the staples 2612 may be balanced and/or stabilized such that rotation and/or twisting of the staples 2612 may be prevented, reduced, and/or controlled during deployment. For example, direct drive staples such as the staple 2612 that are mass balanced relative to a plurality of slider engagement surfaces may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

The inclined surfaces 2666 disclosed in fig. 37-38B are staggered. For example, the illustrated ramped surfaces 2666 are longitudinally staggered such that at least one ramped surface 2666 longitudinally guides at least one other ramped surface 2666. The inclined surfaces 2666 of the second and fourth driving

wedges

2664b, 2664d guide the inclined surfaces 2666 of the first and

third driving wedges

2664a, 2664c longitudinally. The inclined surfaces 2666 of the second and

fourth drive wedges

2664b, 2664d are higher than the inclined surfaces 2666 of the first and

third drive wedges

2664a, 2664c at the aligned distal ends 2667. For example, as shown in fig. 38 and 38B, the first and

third drive wedges

2664a and 2664c have a distal height y, and the second and fourth drive wedges 2664B and 2664d have a distal height x, the height x being less than the height y.

The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 are configured to be simultaneously moved into engagement with the angled pins 2612. For example, the staple engaging surfaces 2666 of the first and

second wedges

2664a and 2664b can be configured to simultaneously engage the angled staples 2612 in the first outer row 2633 (FIG. 37) of staple cavities 2628. In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2666 of the second and

third wedges

2664b, 2664c are configured to simultaneously engage the angled staples 2612 in the first intermediate row 2637 (fig. 37). In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2666 of the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d are configured to simultaneously engage staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635 (fig. 37).

The deployment or firing of the staples 2612 is illustrated in fig. 38A and 38B, wherein the third wedge 2664c and the fourth wedge 2664d of the driver 2658 are in driving engagement with the staples 2612. The third wedge 2664c may initially contact the pin 2612 at point a and the fourth wedge 2664d may initially contact the pin 2612 at point B. The third wedge 2664c and the fourth wedge 2664d are configured to simultaneously engage the spike 2612 such that the spike 2612 contacts points a and B at or near the same time. Due to the difference in height between staple engaging surfaces 2666 of third wedge 2664c and fourth wedge 2664d, points a and B may be longitudinally offset such that points a and B are at the same or substantially the same elevation.

Still referring to fig. 38A and 38B, as the driver 2658 continues to move distally in the staple cartridge 2620, the staples 2612 can slide the staple engaging surfaces 2666 of the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d upward to points a 'and B' on the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d, respectively. As shown in fig. 38B, the spike 2612 remains in an upright orientation in the vertical direction during deployment. The staples 2612 can then continue to slide the staple engaging surfaces 2666 of the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d upward to points a "and B" on the third and

fourth wedges

2664c and 2664d, respectively. As shown in fig. 38B, the spike 2612 continues to maintain an upright orientation in the vertical direction. In other words, the pair of staple-engaging surfaces 2666 stabilizes and/or balances the staple 2612 during deployment such that rotation or twisting of the staple 2612 can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

In other cases, the driving wedge or guide rail of the wedge sled may be lowered all the way to zero or substantially zero height. For example, referring now to fig. 39-39B, a wedge slide 2758 is shown. The wedge sled 2758 can be used in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector 2600 (fig. 37) to fire the staples 2612 from the staple cartridge 2620 (fig. 39A).

Similar to the slide 2658, the wedge slide 2758 disclosed in fig. 39-39B includes four driving wedges 2764 on either side of the central portion 2759. Each drive wedge 2764 includes an angled staple engaging surface 2766 that is configured to directly engage and drive a staple 2612 from a staple cavity 2628. Also similar to the slide 2658, the staple-engaging surfaces 2766 of the drive wedges 2764 shown in fig. 39-39B are longitudinally staggered such that the first and

third drive wedges

2764a, 2764c longitudinally follow the second and fourth drive wedges 2764B, 2764 d.

The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2766 of the

drive wedges

2764a, 2764B, 2764c, 2764d disclosed in fig. 39-39B are configured to be simultaneously moved into engagement with the angled pin 2612. For example, the staple-engaging surfaces 2766 of first and

second wedges

2764a, 2764b are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 positioned in first outer row 2635 (fig. 37). In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2766 of the second wedge 2764b and third wedge 2764c are configured to simultaneously engage the angled staples 2612 in the first intermediate row 2637 (fig. 37). In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2766 of the third wedge 2764c and fourth wedge 2764d are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (fig. 37).

In addition, the longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 of the driving

wedges

2764a, 2764B, 2764c, 2764d disclosed in fig. 39-39B are configured to drive the angled staples 2612 simultaneously. For example, the staple engaging surfaces 2766 of the first and

second wedges

2764a, 2764b can be configured to simultaneously drive the angled staples 2612 in the first outer row 2635 of staple cavities 2628 (FIG. 37). In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2766 of the second wedge 2764b and third wedge 2764c are configured to simultaneously drive the angled staples 2612 in the first intermediate row 2637 (fig. 37). In addition, the staple engaging surfaces 2766 of the third wedge 2764c and fourth wedge 2764d are configured to simultaneously drive angled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (fig. 37).

Referring primarily to fig. 39A, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624 are configured to move into engagement with the second staples 2612b that are the most proximal staples and are aligned with the firing path of the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764 c. Additionally, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c may be equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the second pin 2612 b. As the sled 2758 continues to translate distally, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c are configured to drivingly engage the second staples 2612b to lift and fire the staples 2612 b.

In the arrangement disclosed in fig. 39A, as the second wedge 2764b and third wedge 2764c lift the second staples 2612b, the first wedge 2764a and second wedge 2764b on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624 are configured to move into engagement with the first staples 2612a and the third wedge 2764c and fourth wedge 2764d on the first side 2627 are configured to move into engagement with the third staples 2612 c. In addition, as shown in FIG. 39A, the first and

second wedges

2764a, 2764b are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the first pin 2612a, and the third and

fourth wedges

2764c, 2764d are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the third pin 2612 c. As the sled 2758 continues to translate distally, the first and

second wedges

2764a, 2764b drivingly engage the first staples 2612a to lift and fire the staples 2612b, and the third and

fourth wedges

2764c, 2764d drivingly engage the third staples 2612c to lift and fire the staples 2612 c.

The pair of drive wedges arrangement described above and shown in fig. 39A is configured to continue to simultaneously engage and lift a staple 2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 as the sled 2758 continues to translate distally. Because the slide 2758 supports each of the staples 2612 at multiple locations along its base, the staples 2612 are stabilized and/or balanced during deployment. Additionally, because the staple engaging surface 2766 of the slider 2758 is equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of each contact staple 2612, rotation and/or twisting of the staples 2612 can be further prevented, minimized, or controlled. Further, because the

drive wedges

2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764 are longitudinally staggered, the engagement of the plurality of

drive wedges

2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764 with each staple 2612 is timed and/or synchronized to balance the driving forces exerted on each staple 2612 throughout its deployment.

Drive slide 2858 is shown in fig. 40. The wedge sled 2758 can be used in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector 2600 (fig. 37) to fire the staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2620 (fig. 39A). Similar to the

slides

2658 and 2758, the drive slide 2858 includes a plurality of drive wedges 2864 on either side of the central portion 2859. Each drive wedge 2864 includes an angled staple engaging surface 2866 that is configured to directly engage and drive a staple 2612 from a staple cavity 2628. In addition, the angled staple engaging surfaces 2866 are angled or angled laterally. Because the staple engaging surfaces 2866 are laterally and longitudinally inclined, each surface 2866 includes a longitudinally offset support portion that drivingly engages the angled staples 2612 throughout its deployment and firing.

For example, the angled staple-engaging surfaces 2866 disclosed in fig. 40 are configured to drivingly engage the staples 2612 along a portion of the base of each staple 2612. In the arrangement shown in fig. 40, the driving force exerted on the staples 2612 is distributed over a larger surface area. For example, the staple engaging surface 2866 can contact at least 50% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In other instances, the staple-engaging surface can contact at least 75% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In still other instances, the staple-engaging surface can contact less than 50% or more than 75% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In addition, the driving force from the sliders 2858 is balanced with respect to the center of mass of each of the staples 2612 to further stabilize and balance the staples 2612 during deployment. Thus, rotation and/or twisting of the pin 2612 can be prevented, minimized, or controlled.

As described herein, such an array of staples provides various benefits: including staples that are angularly oriented relative to a longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or a firing path of the firing member. For example, such an array of staples may provide improved flexibility and/or stretchability within the stapled tissue. Thus, the incidence of tissue tearing may be reduced. In some cases, the staple array may also include staples having bases of different lengths. Variable length bases within the staple array may facilitate increased flexibility and/or stretchability in the stapled tissue. Additionally, in some arrangements, staples having shorter bases may be nested within the staple array. For example, staples having shorter bases may be positioned in the narrower spaces between staples having longer bases. Such an arrangement may densify the staple line, which may improve control of bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue.

An array of staples 3011 is shown in FIG. 41. Array 3011 include long staples 3012 and short staples 3013. As shown in FIG. 41, spike 3012 has l₁And staple 3013 has a length of₂Length of base of l₂Less than l₁. In the array 3011 shown, first spikes 3012a are aligned with axis A_aAligned with axis A and first staple 3013_bAligned with the axis A _bParallel to axis A_a. Additional long and short staples 3012 and 3013 (such as

staples

3012e, 3013b, 3013c, and 3013d), for example, are parallel to axis A_aAnd A_b. As further disclosed in array 3011 shown in FIG. 41, second spikes 3012 are associated with axis A_cAligned with the axis A_cTransverse axis A_aAnd A_b. For example, additional spikes 3012, such as

spikes

3012c, 3012d, and 3012f, are parallel to axis A_c。

In other arrangements, additional tacks 3012 may also be parallel to axis A_c. In some cases, the various staples may be along a non-parallel axis a_a、A_bAnd A_cIs arranged in the axis. For example, the staple array 3011 can comprise staples oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or parallel to a firing path of the drive sled. In addition, in various instances, staple array 3011 can comprise staple fibers having a composition other than l₂And l₁The base length of the staple. In some cases, staple array 3011 may include additional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of

staples

3012, 3013. For example, the row of long staples 3012 aligned with first long staple 3012a may be removed and/or the row of long staples 3012 aligned with second long staple 3012b may be removed and/or the row of short staples 3013a aligned with first short staple 3013a may be removed and/or the row of long staples 3012 aligned with third long staple 3012c may be removed and/or the row of short staples 3013 aligned with second short staple 3013b may be removed and/or the row of long staples 3013d aligned with fourth long staple 3012d may be removed.

Referring again to fig. 41, short staples 3013 are embedded in staple array 3011 intermediate two long staples 3012. For example, two spikes 3012 in array 3011, such as third spike 3012c and sixth spike 3012f shown in fig. 41, are parallel and laterally aligned. In such an arrangement, a space is defined between third long staple 3012c and sixth long staple 3012f, and the space is configured to accommodate third short staple 3013 c. Thus, third short staple 3013c in the illustrated array 3011 is nested between third long staple 3012c and sixth long staple 3012 f. In such an arrangement, third short staple 3013c, and similarly placed short staples 3013 in array 3011, can densify the staple lines by filling the spaces between long staples 3012. In each case, because the staple lines are densified in the array 3011, bleeding and/or fluid flow control is improved.

Densified staple lines, such as staple array 3011, for example, can be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

In other cases, the long staples 3012, which define the space therebetween for receiving the short staples, can be non-parallel to one another. For example, third spike 3012c and sixth spike 3012f may be skewed and/or otherwise non-parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the long staples 3012, which define the space therebetween for receiving the short staples 3013, may only partially overlap laterally. For example, in some cases, third spikes 3012c can be laterally outboard or laterally inboard relative to sixth spikes 3012f such that only a portion of third spikes 3012c and sixth spikes 3012f are laterally aligned.

An array of staples, such as array 3011, for example, can be positioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as driverless staple cartridge 2620 (fig. 37), and can be directly engaged by and driven from the staple cartridge by a drive sled. In such cases, the

staples

3012, 3013 in the array 3011 may be mass balanced with respect to the driving wedges of the sled that contact and drive the

staples

3012, 3013. For example, the drive wedges can apply a firing force at the ends of the staple bases equidistant from the center of mass of each staple 3012, 3013. In other cases, firing forces may be applied at various spaced locations along the base of

staples

3012, 3013, and the cumulative firing forces may be balanced with respect to

staples

3012, 3013. Staple drivers may be employed where the staples do not overlie and/or are not balanced relative to the firing path. For example, as further described herein, a multi-staple driver can simultaneously lift a plurality of staples from a staple cartridge.

An array of staples 3111 is shown in fig. 42. The array 3111 includes long staples 3112 and short staples 3113. As shown in FIG. 42, the spike 3112 hasl₁And the staple 3113 has a base length of l₂Length of base of l₂Less than l₁. In the illustrated array 3111, a first staple 3113a is associated with axis A_aAligned with the axis A and the first spike 3112a _bAligned with the axis A_bTransverse axis A_a. The additional staple 3113 is parallel to the axis A_aOriented with the additional spike 3112 parallel to axis A_bAnd (4) orientation.

In other arrangements, at least one staple 3113 can be parallel to axis a_bOriented and/or at least one spike 3112 may be parallel to axis A_aAnd (4) orientation. In some cases, the

various staples

3112, 3113 may be along a direction non-parallel to axis a_aAnd A_bIs arranged in the axis. For example, the staple array 3111 can include staples oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or parallel to a firing path of the drive wedge 3064, which is also shown in FIG. 42. Additionally, in various instances, the staple array 3111 can include staple arrays having a composition different from/₂And l₁And/or the staple array 3111 may include additional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of

staples

3112, 3113.

Still referring to fig. 42, the short staples 3113 can be embedded in the staple array 3111 intermediate at least two laterally overlapping long staples 3112. In such an arrangement, nested short staples 3113 in the array 3111 can densify the staple lines by filling the spaces between adjacent long staples 3112. Because the staple lines are densified in the array 3111, bleeding and/or fluid flow may be improved. For example, densified staple lines (e.g., staple array 3111) may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

In other cases, the long staples 3112 defining the spaces therebetween for receiving the short staples may not be parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the long staples 3112 defining a space therebetween for receiving the short staples 3113 may only partially overlap.

An array of staples, such as array 3111, for example, can be positioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as driverless staple cartridge 2620 (fig. 37), and can be directly engaged by and driven from the staple cartridge by a drive sled, such as sled 2058 (fig. 37). In such cases, the

staples

3112, 3113 in the array 3111 may be mass balanced relative to the drive wedge 3064 of the sled, which contacts and drives the

staples

3112, 3113. For example, the drive wedge 3064 can apply a firing force at the end of the staple base equidistant from the center of mass of the

staples

3112, 3113.

In other instances, the firing force may be applied at various spaced locations along the base of the

staples

3112, 3113, and the cumulative firing force may be balanced with respect to the

staples

3112, 3113. Staple drivers may be employed in situations where the

staples

3112, 3113 are not overlaid on and/or balanced relative to the firing path. For example, as further described herein, a multi-staple driver can simultaneously lift a plurality of staples from a staple cartridge.

In various instances, where the sled is configured to directly drive the staples, the staples can include sled-engaging surfaces and the sled can include staple-engaging surfaces. The staple may be a generally "V-shaped" staple having a base and non-parallel extending legs. For example, referring again to the peg 2612 shown in fig. 39B and 40, for example, the peg 2612 includes a base 2614, a first leg 2616 extending from a first end of the base 2614, and a second leg 2618 extending from a second end of the base 2614. The pin 2612 can be formed of a wire, such as a wire having a circular cross-section, and thus, the outer perimeter of the pin 2612 can be comprised of a circular surface. Thus, the slide-engaging surfaces of the spikes 2612 can include rounded and/or contoured surfaces.

In other cases, the peg 2612 can be formed from a wire having a polygonal cross-section, and thus, the outer perimeter of the peg 2612 can include edges and flat or planar surfaces. In such embodiments, the slide-engaging surface of the spike 2612 can include, for example, at least one flat surface and/or planar surface. In further instances, the outer perimeter of the spike 2612 can include both contoured and planar surfaces. For example, the spike 2612 can be formed from a wire having a circular cross-section that can be flattened and/or otherwise deformed to form a flat slider engagement surface.

In some cases, the staple may be formed from one piece of material. For example, the staples may be stamped, cut and/or molded from a sheet of material. Various stamped nails are described in U.S. patent application 14/138,481 filed on 23.12.2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. In various instances, the staples can be stamped or otherwise formed, e.g., from a single piece of material, and can be retained, e.g., as a single piece of material and/or as a unitary piece of material. In various instances, the slider engagement surface of a staple, such as a stamped staple, can comprise a flat or planar surface of a stamped or otherwise formed part. Additionally, in some instances, the slide engaging surface may include a groove and/or a cutout, which may be configured to receive a driving wedge of the wedge slide. The channel may traverse the base of the staple at an angle when the staple is oriented at an angle relative to the firing path of the drive wedge.

Punch pin 2912 is shown in fig. 26-28. The staple 2912 includes a base 2914, a first leg 2916, and a second leg 2918. As shown in fig. 26-28, the outer periphery of the peg 2912 includes a flat surface and a contoured surface. In addition, the nail 2912 includes a groove or track 2915 (fig. 27 and 28) that has been cut into the base 2914. The groove 2915 is configured to receive a drive wedge 2964 of the drive slider 2958.

In various circumstances, the width of groove 2915 may be slightly greater than the width of drive wedge 2964 received therein. For example, the width of the groove 2915 may be sized to receive the driving wedge 2964 and prevent lateral displacement of the staple 2915 relative to the wedge 2964.

The staples 2912 shown in fig. 26-28 are angularly oriented relative to the firing path F (fig. 28) of the drive wedge 2964. For example, the staples 2912 extend along an axis a (fig. 27) that traverses the firing path F. Thus, the illustrated groove 2915 is angularly oriented through the base 2914 of the nail 2912. For example, the axis a may be oriented at an angle θ relative to the firing path F. The angle θ shown in fig. 28 is 45 °.

The base 2914 has an extended length l. For example, the length l of the base 2914 is greater than the length of the

staple legs

2916, 2918. Because the base 2914 is elongated, the groove 2915 includes an elongated guide surface or track for driving the wedge 2964, which facilitates stability of the staple 2912 during deployment. A staple having an elongated guide or track for receiving a drive wedge (e.g., staple 2912) may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein, for example.

Referring primarily to fig. 28, the staples 2912 have a center of mass (COM) that coincides with the firing path F. For example, the firing path F extends through the center of mass (COM) of the staples 2912 such that the staples 2912 are balanced relative to the drive wedge 2964. Thus, the driving force exerted on the staple 2912 may simultaneously lift the

staple legs

2916, 2918, and the twisting or rotation of the staple 2912 may be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

In various instances, a groove or track similar to groove 2915 may be defined into the unbunched nail. For example, the wire tack may be cut, stamped and/or ground to create a track for slidably receiving the drive wedge. In such cases, the staple base may have the same length as the staple legs, or in other cases, the staple base may be flattened to increase or elongate its length. Additionally, in some instances, a plurality of drive wedges drivably engage the staple as further described herein. In such cases, the staple may include a plurality of grooves or tracks that may each be configured to receive a drive wedge. Further, in some cases, staples having guide tracks similar to channel 2915, for example, may be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. For example, parallel staples may be longitudinally aligned with the firing path of the drive wedge. In such cases, the guide track defined into the base of the staple may extend along the base of the staple parallel thereto.

As described herein, angularly oriented staples can provide increased flexibility and/or extensibility to the stapled tissue. For example, angled staples in the array of firing staples can be pivoted and/or rotated into alignment with the cut line and/or longitudinal axis of the staple line to facilitate lengthening and/or longitudinal deformation of the stapled tissue. Because the angled staples may pivot and/or rotate within the array of stapled tissue, tearing and/or stretching of the tissue may be reduced and/or prevented. Furthermore, stress in the tissue and/or trauma to the sutured tissue may be minimized.

In addition to the longitudinal flexibility provided by the longitudinally extendable array of firing staples, it may also be desirable to provide lateral customization to the tissue being treated by the array of staples. For example, the compressive force exerted on the tissue can be optimized and/or adjusted based on the relative lateral position of the tissue relative to the staple line. In some instances, it may be desirable to tailor the compressive force on the tissue prior to and/or during suturing. In other cases, it may be desirable to customize the compressive force on the stapled tissue. Further, in other instances, it may be desirable to customize the compressive force on the tissue, for example, before, during, and after stapling.

The combination of lateral tissue compression tailoring and longitudinal tissue flexibility may provide a synergistic tissue effect. For example, the compressed tissue may accommodate increased elastic deformation when compressive forces exerted on the tissue during and/or after suturing generate less stress in the compressed tissue and/or affect reduced tissue trauma. In other words, the optimally compressed tissue may better accommodate the rotation and/or pivoting of the staples therein as the optimally compressed tissue is stretched and/or elongated. Further, as the stapled tissue readily accommodates staple pivoting and/or displacement, stress in the stapled tissue may be reduced and trauma to the stapled tissue may be minimized. Thus, stress and/or trauma to optimally compressed tissue may be further minimized as the staples pivot and/or displace to accommodate tissue elongation or longitudinal extension.

The staple cartridge 3420 is illustrated in FIGS. 43-45. The illustrated staple cartridge 3420 comprises a cartridge body 3424 and a deck 3422. A plurality of staple cavities 3428 are defined into the body 3424 of the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, and each staple cavity 3428 forms an opening 3430 in the deck 3422. In addition, the staple cavities 3428 illustrated in FIGS. 43-45 are angularly oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44) of the staple cartridge 3420. In the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, a longitudinal slot 3432 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3424 and three rows of staple cavities 3428 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3432. The arrangement of staple cavities 3428 shown in fig. 43-45 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, a plurality of staples, such as staples 3412 (fig. 45), are removably positioned in staple cavities 3428.

In the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, the staple cavities 3428 in the outer row on a first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (fig. 44), the staple cavities 3428 in the middle row on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in the inner row on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, the third angle is the same or substantially the same as the first angle, and the second angle is offset from the first angle and from the third angle by 90 degrees or about 90 degrees.

As further shown in fig. 43-45, the staple cavities 3428 in the outer row on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a fourth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (fig. 44), the staple cavities 3428 in the middle row on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a fifth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in the inner row on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a sixth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, the sixth angle is the same or substantially the same as the fourth angle, and the fifth angle is 90 degrees or about 90 degrees offset from the fourth angle and from the sixth angle. In addition, in the arrangements shown in fig. 43-45, the second angle is the same or substantially the same as the fourth angle and the sixth angle, and the first angle is the same or substantially the same as the third angle and the fifth angle.

In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can include additional and/or fewer rows of staple cavities. Additionally or alternatively, the angular orientation of the staples 3412 in each row can be adjusted and/or modified to accommodate different arrays. For example, in some cases, at least one staple cavity may be parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

In various circumstances, the staple cartridge 3420 shown in FIGS. 43-45 can be used with the end effector 2000 shown in FIG. 7. For example, a staple cartridge 3420 can be loaded into the elongate channel of the second jaw 2004. Additionally, in certain instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can be fired with a single staple driver, multiple staple drivers, and/or combinations thereof. For example, a single staple driver 3440 (fig. 45) can be positioned in each staple cavity 3428 and can drivably engage a staple 3412 supported thereon. The drivers 3440, shown in fig. 45, can be positioned within the cartridge body 3424 such that the legs of each driver 3440 are aligned with one of the staples 3412 positioned in one of the staple cavities 3428.

In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can comprise a multi-staple driver. For example, a multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples 3412 (fig. 45) from a first set of staple cavities 3428, and another multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples 3412 from a second set of staple cavities 3428. In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may not include a driver. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2660 and sled 2658 (fig. 37), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples 3412. In various circumstances, for example during deployment, driver 3440 and/or staples 3412 can be mass balanced relative to the firing path of a sled, such as sled 2058 (fig. 7) and/or sled 2658 (fig. 37).

The platform 3422 shown in fig. 43-45 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending portions. For example, the platform 3422 includes a first longitudinal portion 3422a, a second longitudinal portion 3422b and a third longitudinal portion 3422c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3432, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3422d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3422e and a sixth longitudinal portion 3422f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in fig. 43-45, a longitudinal staple line lumen 3428 is aligned with each

longitudinally extending portion

3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422 f. For example, the outer staple bank lumen 3428 on a first side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with first longitudinal portion 3422a, the middle staple bank lumen 3428 on the first side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with second longitudinal portion 3422b, and the inner staple bank lumen 3428 on the first side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with third longitudinal portion 3422 c. In addition, the outer staple row lumen 3428 on a second side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with fourth longitudinal portion 3422d, the middle staple row lumen 3428 on the second side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with fifth longitudinal portion 3422e, and the inner staple row lumen 3428 on the second side of longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with sixth longitudinal portion 3422 f.

In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can include additional and/or fewer longitudinally extending portions. For example, the longitudinal portions may be adjusted and/or modified to correspond to different arrangements of staple cavities and staples. In certain embodiments, more than one longitudinal staple line lumen may coincide with at least one longitudinal portion. Additionally or alternatively, at least one longitudinal portion may not include, for example, a staple cavity and/or a row of staples.

In the illustrated staple cartridge 3420, adjacent

longitudinal portions

3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, and 3422f are vertically offset from one another by ridges 3423. For example, a ridge 3423 extends between the first portion 3422a and the second portion 3422b, and another ridge 3423 extends between the second portion 3422b and the third portion 3422 c. In addition, in the illustrated arrangement, a ridge 3423 extends between the fourth portion 3422d and the fifth portion 3422e, and another ridge 3423 extends between the fifth portion 3422e and the sixth portion 3422 f. As shown in fig. 43-45, a longitudinal slot 3432 extends between the third portion 3422c and the fourth portion 3422 d.

The ridges 3423 disclosed in fig. 43-45 define elevation changes in the platform 3422. For example, a ridge 3423 between the first portion 3422a and the second portion 3422b defines an upward step such that the second portion 3422b has a higher elevation than the first portion 3422. In each case, the ridges 3423 laterally adjust the height of the platform 3422. For example, the ridges 3423 increase the height of the platform 3422 inwardly and decrease the height of the platform 3422 outwardly such that the greatest height is adjacent to the longitudinal slot 3432 and the lateral side wing portions have the shortest height.

The gap between the deck 3422 and the staple forming surface of the anvil controls the degree of tissue compression when the jaws of the end effector, such as first jaw 2002 and second jaw 2004 of end effector 2000 (fig. 7), are clamped. Thus, the height of the platform 3422 can affect the degree of tissue compression between the clamping jaws. For example, in areas where the platform 3422 is taller, adjacent tissue may be compressed relatively more between the clamping jaws, and in areas where the platform 3422 is shorter, adjacent tissue may be compressed relatively less between the clamping jaws. Thus, the ridges 3423 disclosed in fig. 43-45 may affect lateral changes in tissue compression. As further described herein, the degree of tissue compression may be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. In addition, because the staple cartridge 3420 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3412, the integrity of the stapled tissue may be further preserved.

The ridges 3423 disclosed in fig. 43-45 affect a steep and/or steep step between adjacent

longitudinal portions

3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, and 3422 f. Fig. 43-45 further disclose that ridges 3423 curve around staple cavities 3428 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 3428. For example, the ridges 3423 generally extend along a path that corresponds to and/or matches the angular orientation of one or more staple cavities 3428 adjacent thereto. Thus, the ridge 3423 includes a plurality of contoured and/or curved portions. In addition, the ridges 3423 include a plurality of straight or substantially straight portions intermediate the contoured portions.

In other cases, the ridges 3423 may define less abrupt elevation changes. For example, at least one ridge 3423 and/or portions thereof may be gradually sloped and/or incrementally stepped to different elevations. In addition, in some cases, the heights of the

longitudinal portions

3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422f may vary. For example, the height of each

longitudinal portion

3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422f may vary laterally and/or longitudinally. In such cases, the platform may define an inclined and/or angled surface, for example, in the middle of the ridge 3423.

In other staple cartridges, the ridges can extend along different paths between the rows of staples and the staple cavities. For example, the staple cartridge 3520 illustrated in FIGS. 46-48 is similar to the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and like reference numerals refer to like elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3520 comprises a cartridge body 3524 and a deck 3522. A plurality of staple cavities 3528 are defined into the body 3524 of the illustrated staple cartridge 3520, and each staple cavity 3528 forms an opening 3530 in the deck 3422. In addition, the staple cavities 3528 shown in fig. 46-48 match the array of staple cavities 3428 shown in fig. 43-45. For example, in the illustrated staple cartridge 3520, a longitudinal slot 3532 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3524 and three rows of staple cavities 3528 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3532. The arrangement of staple cavities 3528 shown in fig. 46-48 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, a plurality of staples, such as staples 3412 (fig. 45), can be removably positioned in staple cavities 3528.

The platform 3522 disclosed in fig. 46-48 comprises a plurality of longitudinally extending portions. For example, the illustrated platform 3522 includes a first longitudinal portion 3522a, a second longitudinal portion 3522b, and a third longitudinal portion 3522c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3532, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3522d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3522e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3522f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in fig. 46-48, longitudinal row of staple cavities 3528 is aligned with each

longitudinally extending portion

3522a, 3522b, 3522c, 3522d, 3522e, 3522 f. Additionally, in the illustrated staple cartridge 3520, adjacent

longitudinal portions

3522a, 3522b, 3522c, 3522d, 3522e, and 3522f are vertically offset from one another by ridges 3523.

The ridges 3523 disclosed in fig. 46-48 extend along a different path than the ridges 3423 of the platform 3422 (fig. 43-45). For example, ridge 3423 includes a plurality of cuts, such as

cuts

3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d (fig. 47), for example, wherein ridge 3523 does not extend along and/or adjacent to staple cavity 3528. The geometry of

incisions

3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d may be selected to adjust tissue compression. For example, the incision may enlarge the area of reduced pressure and reduce the adjacent area of increased pressure. In various circumstances, it may be desirable to provide the knife slot 3532 with

cuts

3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d to provide, for example, areas of reduced tissue compression.

As further described herein, the ridges 3523 disclosed in fig. 46-48 can affect lateral changes in tissue compression. For example, the degree of tissue compression may be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. In addition, because the staple cartridge 3520 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3512, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be further preserved.

In other cases, the ridges on the cartridge deck may be straight or substantially straight. For example, the staple cartridge 3620 illustrated in FIGS. 49-51 is similar to the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and like reference numerals refer to like elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3620 comprises a cartridge body 3624 and a deck 3622. A plurality of staple cavities 3628 are defined into the body 3624 of the illustrated staple cartridge 3620, and each staple cavity 3628 forms an opening 3630 in the deck 3622. In addition, the staple cavities 3628 shown in FIGS. 49-51 match the arrangement of staple cavities 3528 shown in FIGS. 46-48. For example, in the illustrated staple cartridge 3620, a longitudinal slot 3632 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3624 and three rows of staple cavities 3628 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3632. The arrangement of staple cavities 3628 illustrated in fig. 46-48 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, a plurality of staples, such as staples 3612 (FIG. 51), are removably positioned in the staple cavities 3628.

The platform 3622 disclosed in fig. 49-51 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending portions. For example, the illustrated platform 3622 includes a first longitudinal portion 3622a, a second longitudinal portion 3622b, and a third longitudinal portion 3622c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3632, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3622d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3622e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3622f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3632. As shown in fig. 49-51, the longitudinal staple line cavities 3628 are aligned with each of the

longitudinally extending portions

3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, 3622 f. Additionally, in the illustrated staple cartridge 3620, adjacent

longitudinal portions

3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e and 3622f are vertically offset from one another by ridges 3623.

The spine 3623 disclosed in fig. 49-51 extends along a different path than the spine 3423 of the platform 3422 (fig. 43-45) and the spine 3523 of the platform 3522 (fig. 46-48). For example, the ridges 3623 extend along a linear path that extends parallel to the longitudinal slots 3632. In addition, a portion of the longitudinal spine 3523 extends through staple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620. Thus, one end or side of the staple cavity 3628 is positioned in one of the

longitudinal deck portions

3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, or 3622f and another end or side of the same staple cavity 3628 is positioned in another one of the

longitudinal deck portions

3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, or 3622 f.

As further described herein, the ridges 3623 disclosed in fig. 49-51 may affect lateral changes in tissue compression. For example, the degree of tissue compression may be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because the staple cartridge 3620 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3612, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be further preserved.

In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3620 comprises multiple staple drivers, such as the multiple staple drivers 3640 disclosed in FIG. 51. Each of the plurality of staple drivers 3640 is configured to fire staples 3612 from a group of staple cavities 3628. For example, similar to the

multi-staple drivers

2040a, 2040b (FIGS. 7-9), the multi-staple driver 3640 includes three steps 3645, and a slot or shelf 3642 is defined into each step 3645. In addition, the steps 3645 of the multi-staple driver 3640 are connected by a connecting flange 3648. Each of the multi-staple drivers 3640 illustrated in FIG. 51 supports staples 3612 in a plurality of rows of staple cavities 3628 and is configured to fire the staples 3612 from the staple cavities 3628 in the plurality of rows. In FIG. 51, the height of each step 3645 and the depth of each cradle 3642 defined therein are the same so that the staples 3612 formed between the steps 3645 and the staple forming surfaces on the anvil have the same formed height.

As further described herein, it may be desirable to customize and/or optimize the formed staple height to affect varying tissue compression within the formed staples. Thus, at least one of the multi-staple drivers 3640 can be modified to form staples 3612 of different formed heights. For example, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of the staple multi-staple driver 3640 can be modified to have different dimensions such that at least two staples of the staples 3612 formed by the modified multi-staple driver 3640 have different formed heights. In other instances, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of different staple drivers 3640 can be modified such that a first driver 3640 is configured to form staples 3612 having a first formed height and a second driver 3640 is configured to form staples 3612 having a second, different formed height.

In still other instances, the staple cartridge 3620 can comprise a single staple driver. Alternatively, the staple cartridge 3620 may not include a driver. For example, the firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2660 and sled 2658 (fig. 37), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples 3612. In various circumstances, the drivers 3640 and/or staples 3612 can be mass balanced, for example, relative to the firing path of a sled, such as sled 2058 (fig. 7) and/or sled 2658 (fig. 37).

As described herein, the staples in the staple array can be formed to different formed heights in order to customize and/or optimize tissue compression within the formed staples. For example, in various circumstances, it may be desirable to laterally vary tissue compression, and thus the size of the formed staples. In such cases, for example, tissue near the cut line may be more compressed than tissue away from the cut line. Various staple arrays having different unformed heights and/or different formed heights are described in the following patents: united states patent 7,866,528 entitled "STAPLE DRIVE asset" published on 1/2011; U.S. Pat. No. 7,726,537 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLER WITH UNIVERSAL ARTICULATION AND TISSUE PRE-CLAMP", published 6/1/2010; U.S. patent 7,641,091 entitled "STAPLE DRIVE asset" published on 5.1.2010; us patent 7,635,074 entitled "STAPLE DRIVE asset" published 12, 22 of 2009; and us patent 7,997,469 entitled "STAPLE DRIVE asset" published on 16/8/2011, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring again to fig. 49-51, in various circumstances, the staple cartridge 3620 can be employed with an end effector that is configured to deform the staples 3612 into different formed heights. The angled staple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620 are arranged in a plurality of rows. For example, the angled staple cavities 3628 are arranged in a first outer row, a first intermediate row, and a first inner row on a first side of the staple cartridge 3620, and the angled staple cavities 3628 are arranged in a second outer row, a second intermediate row, and a second inner row on a second side of the staple cartridge 3620. In various circumstances, staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can assume a higher formed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row, and/or staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row can assume a higher formed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first inner row. Additionally or alternatively, staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second outer row can assume a higher formed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row, and/or staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row can assume a higher formed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second inner row.

In certain instances, staples 3612 fired from the staple cartridge 3620 can have different unformed heights. For example, staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can have a greater unformed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row, and/or staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row can have a greater unformed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first inner row. Additionally or alternatively, staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second outer row can have a greater unformed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row, and/or staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row can have a greater unformed height than staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second inner row.

In various instances, arrays of staples having different unformed heights and/or different formed heights can be incorporated into the various staple cartridges described herein. For example, the staple cartridge 3420 (fig. 43-45) and the staple cartridge 3520 (fig. 46-48) can comprise staples having different unformed heights and/or can be configured to fire the staples to different formed heights. In such instances, the stepped cartridge platforms 3422 (fig. 43-45), 3522 (fig. 46-48), and 3622 (fig. 49-51) can affect, for example, variable pre-fired tissue compression, and different formed staple heights can affect, for example, variable post-fired tissue compression.

As described herein, the angled staple array provides improved flexibility for stapling tissue. Staples angled relative to the cutting line and/or longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge can have one staple leg closer to the cutting line than another staple leg. In such an arrangement, the staples can be formed to different formed heights for lateral customization and/or optimization of tissue compression. For example, one end of the staple may be formed to a first height and the other end of the staple may be formed to a second, different height. In such cases, tissue treated by the same row of staples may be subjected to different compressive forces.

The staple cartridge 3720 and anvil 3703 are illustrated in fig. 79. The staple cartridge 3720 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (FIGS. 49-51) and like reference numerals refer to like elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3720 includes a cartridge body 3724 and a platform 3722. Platform 3722 includes a plurality of longitudinally extending

portions

3722a, 3722b, 3722c, and adjacent

longitudinal portions

3722a, 3722b, 3722c are separated by a ridge 3723. The ridges 3723 extend longitudinally along at least a portion of the length of the cartridge body 3722. Angled staple cavities 3728 are defined into the cartridge body 3724, and ridges 3723 extend through the staple cavities 3728. Thus, a first end of the staple cavity 3728 is positioned in the first longitudinal portion 3722a and a second end of the staple cartridge 3728 is positioned in the second longitudinal portion 3722 b. In addition, a longitudinal slot 3732 is defined partially through the illustrated cartridge body 3724.

In various circumstances, the staple cartridge 3720 can include a plurality of staple cavities 3728 configured to receive an array of angled staples 3712. For example, the staple cartridge 3720 can include an arrangement of staple cavities 3728 that corresponds to the arrangement of staple cavities 3628 shown in fig. 49-51. In some cases, three rows of staple cavities 3728 can be positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3732, for example.

Unformed pegs 3712 and deformed pegs 3712' are shown in figure 79. The staple 3712 includes a base 3714, a first leg 3716 extending from the base 3714, and a second leg 3718 extending from the base 3714. Driver 3740 is also shown in figure 79. Driver 3740 includes a slot or cradle 3742 configured to support the base 3714 of staples 3712. Driver 3740 and bracket 3742 defined therein have a variable height between first end 3741 and second end 3743 of driver 3740. For example, a first end 3741 of driver 3740 defines a first height, and a second end 3743 of driver 3740 defines a second height that is less than the first height.

As driver 3740 is fired and lifted within staple cavity 3728, staples 3712 ride up lift drivers 3740 and are deformed by staple forming pockets 3705 of anvil 3703. Formed staples 3712' are also shown in figure 79. The forming height of the staples 3712' is a function of the distance or gap between the lifted drivers 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 of the anvil 3703. Because the distance between the staple support surface 3742 of the lifted drivers 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 varies in the staple cartridge 3720 disclosed in fig. 79, the formed staples 3712' have a variable height. For example, the height of the formed staples 3712 ' is greater between the first leg 3716 ' and the base 3714 ' than between the second leg 3718 ' and the base 3714 '. In various circumstances, the angular orientation of the staples 3712 ' can place the first leg 3716 ' farther from the longitudinal slot 3732 than the second leg 3718 '. In such cases, the first leg 3716 'can be the outer leg of the staple 3712' and the second leg 3718 'can be the inner leg of the staple 3712'. In such an arrangement, tissue compression may be greater between inner leg 3718 'and base 3714' than between outer leg 3716 'and base 3714'.

Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements (e.g., staple cartridge 3720 and anvil 3705) configured to deform angled staples to different formed heights may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein, for example. For example, drivers having variable height staple support shelves (e.g., driver 2740) may be incorporated into other staple cartridges and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein, for example.

The unformed staples 3712 shown in figure 79 also have variable heights. For example, the staples 3712 define a first height at the first legs 3716 and a second height at the second legs 3718 that is less than the first height. In addition, the base 3714 of the staple 3712 defines a bend or step 3715 that lifts the second leg 3718 relative to the first leg 3716.

In other cases, the unformed pegs 3712 may have a uniform height. Additionally or alternatively, the base 3714 of the unformed peg 3712 can be straight or substantially straight between the first leg 3716 and the second leg 3718. In such instances, the staples 3712 can still assume variable formed heights when the distance between the staple support surface 3742 of the lifted drivers 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 is variable. For example, one of the

staple legs

3716, 3718 may deform and/or compact more than the other

staple leg

3716, 3718 to accommodate the additional leg length. In addition, as the distance between the staple support surface 3742 and the staple forming pockets 3705 changes, the base 3714 can bend and/or otherwise deform during firing to accommodate the height differential.

The staple cartridge 3820 and anvil 3803 are shown in fig. 80. The staple cartridge 3820 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (fig. 49-51), and like reference numerals refer to like elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3820 includes a cartridge body 3824 and a deck 3822. Unlike platform 3622 (fig. 49-51), platform 3822 has a flat or substantially flat non-stepped surface. Angled staple cavities 3828 are defined into the cartridge body 3824. In addition, a longitudinal slot 3832 is defined partially through the illustrated cartridge body 3824.

In various instances, the staple cartridge 3820 can include a plurality of staple cavities 3828 that are configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, the staple cartridge 3820 can comprise an arrangement of staple cavities that corresponds to the arrangement of staple cavities 3628 shown in fig. 49-51. In some cases, three rows of staple cavities 3828 may be positioned on either side of, for example, longitudinal slot 3832.

Unformed staples 3812 are shown in fig. 80. The peg 3812 includes a base portion 3814, a first leg portion 3816 extending from the base portion 3814, and a second leg portion 3818 extending from the base portion 3814. Driver 3840 is also shown in fig. 80. The driver 3840 includes a slot or cradle 3842 configured to support the base 3814 of the staple 3812.

The anvil 3803 comprises a laterally stepped surface 3801 facing the cartridge. A first staple forming pocket 3805a and a second staple forming pocket 3805b are defined into the stepped surface 3801. As shown in fig. 80, the first staple forming pocket 3805a is in the first step 3801a of the stepped surface 3801 and the second staple forming pocket 3805b is in the second step 3801b of the stepped surface 3801.

As the drivers 3840 are fired and lifted within the staple cavities 3828, the staples 3812 ride up the lift drivers 3840 and are deformed by the

staple forming pockets

3805a, 3805b of the anvil 3803. Formed staples 3812' are also shown in fig. 80. The forming height of the staples 3812' is a function of the distance or gap between the lifted drivers 3840 and the

staple forming pockets

3805a, 3805b of the anvil 3803. Because the distance between the staple supporting surface 3842 of the lifted drivers 3840 and each

staple forming pocket

3805a, 3805b is different in the staple cartridge 3720 shown in fig. 79, the formed staples 3812' exhibit a variable height. For example, the height of the shaped peg 3812 ' is greater between the first leg portion 3816 ' and the base portion 3814 ' than between the second leg portion 3818 ' and the base portion 3814 '. In various instances, the angular orientation of the staple 3812 ' can place the first leg 3816 ' farther from the longitudinal slot 3832 than the second leg 3818 '. In such cases, the first leg 3816 'may be an outer leg of the peg 3812', and the second leg 3818 'may be an inner leg of the peg 3812'. In such an arrangement, the tissue compression may be greater between the inner leg portion 3818 'and the base portion 3814' than between the outer leg portion 3816 'and the base portion 3814'.

In other cases, the pegs 3812 'may be deformed to a smaller height at the outer leg portions 3816'. Thus, the tissue may be compressed more between the outer leg portion 3816 'and the base portion 3814' than between the inner leg portion 3818 'and the base portion 3814'.

Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements (e.g., the staple cartridge 3820 and the

anvils

3805a, 3805b) configured to deform angled staples to different formed heights may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein, for example. For example, variable depth dimples (e.g., dimples 3805a, 3805b), for example, may be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

The unformed nails 3812 shown in fig. 80 have variable heights. For example, the peg 3812 defines a first height at the first leg 3816 and a second height at the second leg 3818 that is less than the first height.

In other cases, the unformed staples 3812 may have a uniform height. In such instances, the staples 3812 may still assume variable formed heights when the distance between the staple supporting surface 3842 of the lifted driver 3840 and the staple forming pocket 3805 is variable. For example, one of the

staple legs

3816, 3818 may deform and/or compact more than the other

staple leg

3816, 3818 to accommodate the additional length.

In certain types of surgical procedures, the use of surgical staples or surgical fasteners has become the preferred method of engaging tissue, and specially configured surgical staplers or circular surgical fastening devices have been developed for these applications. For example, intraluminal or circular staplers have been developed for use in surgical procedures for forming "anastomoses". Circular staplers that can be used to perform an anastomosis are disclosed, for example, in the following patents: U.S. patent 5,104,025 entitled "INTERRAMMINAL ANATOMOTIC SURGICAL STAPLER WITH DETACHED ANVIL", U.S. patent 5,309,927 entitled "CIRCULAR STAPLER TISSUE RETENTION SPRING METHOD", U.S. patent 7,665,647 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE", and U.S. patent 8,668,130 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL STAPLES WITH TISSUE COMPATION FEATURES", the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

One form of "anastomosis" involves a surgical procedure in which a connected segment (typically the diseased segment) is excised and then the various segments of intestine are joined together. This procedure requires joining the ends of two tubular segments together to form a continuous tubular passage. Previously, such surgical procedures were time consuming and laborious procedures. The surgeon must accurately cut and align the ends of the bowel and maintain alignment while joining the ends by multiple sutures. The development of circular fastening devices greatly simplifies the anastomosis procedure and also shortens the time required to perform the anastomosis.

Generally, conventional circular staplers or fastening devices consist of an elongated shaft that includes a proximal actuation mechanism and a distal stapling mechanism mounted on the shaft. The distal stapling mechanism is typically comprised of a stationary staple cartridge that houses a plurality of staples arranged in a concentric circular array. A circular cutting knife is also concentrically mounted in the cartridge so that it is inside the staple. The knife is axially movable in a distal direction. Extending axially from the center of the cartridge is a trocar shaft. The trocar shaft may also be axially movable within the elongate shaft. The trocar shaft is configured to be removably attached to the anvil member. The anvil member includes a staple forming undersurface that is arranged to face the staple cartridge to form the ends of the staples as they are advanced into contact therewith. The distance between the distal face of the staple cartridge and the staple forming undersurface of the anvil is typically controlled by an adjustment mechanism mounted to the proximal side of the stapler shaft. When the surgeon actuates the actuation mechanism, tissue contained between the staple cartridge and the anvil is simultaneously stapled and cut.

When performing an anastomosis using a circular stapler, the intestine is initially stapled, typically using a conventional surgical stapler which places two rows of staples on either side of a target section of intestine (i.e., diseased section or specimen). The target section is typically cut at the same time as the stitching. Next, after removing the specimen, the surgeon typically inserts an anvil into the proximal end of the lumen (i.e., intestine) proximal to the staple line. This is done by inserting the anvil head into the surgeon's portal cut at the proximal lumen (intestine). Sometimes, the anvil may be placed transanally, i.e. by placing the anvil head on the distal end of the stapler and inserting the instrument through the rectum. The proximal end of the intestine is then stapled to the anvil shaft using a suture or other conventional fastening device. Next, the surgeon resects the excess tissue adjacent the tie and attaches an anvil to the trocar shaft of the stapler. The surgeon then closes the gap between the anvil and the cartridge by pulling the anvil toward the staple cartridge. As the anvil moves toward the cartridge, the proximal and distal ends of the intestine are clamped therebetween. The stapler is then actuated, causing the staple line to be driven through both ends of the intestine into forming contact with the anvil. Simultaneously, as the staples are driven and formed, the circular blade is driven through the intestinal tissue ends, thereby cutting the ends adjacent the inner row of staples. The surgeon then removes the stapler from the intestine and completes the anastomosis.

Effective healing of a colorectal anastomosis can be challenged by several factors and conditions. For example, healing may be affected by the presence of bacterial contamination in the anastomotic region. In general practice, the success rate of anastomosis tends to improve as the patient regains mobility. It is desirable that the patient resume content delivery as soon as possible. One inhibiting factor for content delivery is the risk of "stenosis". If the colon contents fail to pass through the staple line, or if they significantly compress the staple line, tearing, rupture or leakage may occur. For highly expanded organs (such as the lung), linearly expandable staple lines were developed. However, such staple configurations are not suitable for use with circular staplers.

FIG. 29 shows one form of circular stapler or suturing device, generally designated 5000. Various circular stapling devices are well known and are used to install surgical staples or fasteners. Accordingly, various details regarding the construction and operation of the circular stapling apparatus will not be discussed in detail herein, except as may be necessary to understand the innovations and arrangements disclosed herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. More details regarding circular fasteners and suturing devices can be found in U.S. patent 7,665,647 (which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety) entitled "SURGICAL stapling AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE device FOR cementing a TISSUE fastening device" and other U.S. patents that are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. In general, a circular stapling device 5000 suitable for use in fig. 29 includes a head 5002, an anvil 5004, an adjustment knob assembly 5006 and a handle 5010 supporting a trigger 5008 thereon. The handle assembly 5010 is coupled to the head 5002 by an arcuate shaft assembly 5012. In the illustrated arrangement, the trigger 5008 is pivotally supported by the handle assembly 5010 and serves to operate the stapler 5000 when the safety mechanism (not shown) is released. When the trigger 5008 is activated, the firing mechanism is movably advanced within the shaft assembly 5012 such that staples or fasteners are expelled or deployed from the head 5002 into forming contact with the anvil forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004. At the same time, a circular knife (not visible in fig. 29) operably supported within the head 5002 is advanced distally toward the anvil 5004 and serves to cut tissue that has been clamped between the head 5002 and the anvil 5004 in a known manner. The suturing device 5000 is then removed from the surgical site, leaving the sutured tissue in place.

As can also be seen from fig. 29, the anvil 5004 includes a circular body portion 5014 having an anvil shaft 5016 protruding therefrom. The anvil shaft 5016 is configured to be removably attached to a trocar shaft 5050 that is operably supported within the shaft assembly 5012. See fig. 29A. As is well known, the trocar shaft 5050 is movably supported with the shaft assembly 5012 and operably interfaces with the adjustment knob assembly 5006 that is rotatably supported on the handle assembly 5010. The anvil shaft 5016 may be removably attached to the trocar shaft 5050 by a securing clip 5052, or other releasable fastening devices may be used to removably secure the anvil shaft 5016 to the trocar shaft 5050. Once the anvil shaft 5016 has been attached to the trocar shaft 5050, the clinician can move the anvil 5004 toward and away from the head 5002 by rotating the adjustment knob 5006 in the appropriate rotational direction.

FIG. 29A illustrates a head 5002 having a unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly 5020 operatively mounted therein. As can be seen from this figure, the fastener cartridge assembly 5020 comprises a cartridge body 5022 that comprises a circular platform 5030. The circular platform 5030 can form a planar surface 5032 that is arranged to face the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. A plurality of fastener cavities 5040 are disposed in the circular platform 5030 and are configured to receive at least one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown) that is operably supported on a driver assembly 5060 that is movably supported in the body 5022 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5020. The driver assembly 5060 is operatively coupled to a corresponding movable portion of the shaft assembly 5012 that operatively interfaces with the trigger 5008. Activation of trigger 5008, for example, will result in axial movement of driver assembly 5060 in distal direction "DD". Movement of the driver assembly 5060 in the distal direction "DD" will cause the surgical staples or fasteners supported in each fastener cavity 5040 to be moved or ejected into forming contact with the staple forming undersurface 5005 on the anvil 5004.

Still referring to fig. 29A, for example, each fastener cavity 5040 includes two cavity ends 5042, 5044. In the illustrated arrangement, each cavity end 5042 (which may also be referred to herein as a "first cavity end") is positioned on a first circular axis "FCA" having a first radius "FR". The first radius "FR" may be measured from the instrument shaft axis "SA". Also in the illustrated arrangement, the cavity ends 5044 (which may also be referred to herein as "second cavity ends" are positioned on a second circular axis "SCA" having a second radius "SR" that is different from the first radius "FR". in the illustrated embodiment, the second radius "SR" also measured from the shaft axis "SA" is greater than the first radius "FR". further in the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 includes a cavity axis "CA". in the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 is disposed in the circular platform 5030 relative to the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA" such that each cavity axis "CA" forms an acute angle with the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA". in other words, the cavity ends 5042 of adjacent fastener cavities 5040 are adjacent to one another and the ends 5044 of the same fastener cavities 5040 are spaced apart from one another. such arrangement may be referred to herein as a "zig-zag orientation" orientation, in other arrangements, the cavity axis "CA" may be perpendicular to the first circular axis "FCA" and the second circular axis "SCA".

In the arrangement shown in fig. 29A, each

cavity end

5042, 5044 may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate at a point. For example, each cavity end 5042 may generally terminate at a point 5043 and each end 5044 may terminate at a point 5045. The point 5043 may be positioned on or intersect the first circular axis "FCA" and the point 5045 may be positioned on or intersect the second circular axis "SCA". Such a cavity arrangement results in the application of surgical staples or fasteners in a pattern similar to tissue. In the illustrated arrangement, the fastener cavities 5040 each support a surgical staple or surgical fastener therein. However, in other arrangements, more than one spike or fastener may be supported in each cavity. The fastener cartridge assembly 5020 employs similarly sized staples in each fastener cavity 5040. In other arrangements, different sizes of surgical staples or fasteners can be used in the fastener cartridge assembly. Surgical staples that can be used include, for example, two staple legs extending from a central body portion or crown. The legs may be received in the V-shaped

ends

5042, 5044 of the fastener cavity 5040 such that when they are ejected from the cavity 5040, the legs extend through either the first circular axis or the second circular axis, as may be the case. These staple orientations may address some of the problems associated with staple stenosis described above. In particular, the staple configuration formed when the fastener cartridge assembly 5020 is employed can enable the staple line to expand and bend more like the original colon than conventional staple lines. For example, the staples or fasteners may twist as they are pulled radially, allowing them to minimize stress on the healing area and maximize flexibility and strength.

Another area of concern associated with colonic rectal anastomosis procedure procedures relates to radial leakage through the attachment region. The fastener cartridge assembly 5020 described above also addresses problems in the field. Another fastener cartridge assembly 5120 is illustrated in fig. 30 and can also address the various problems and concerns described above. As can be seen from this figure, the fastener cavities are arranged in an "asymmetric pattern" in which the staples applied through the inner ring or inner circular array of cavities have a different function than those staples or fasteners applied through the outer ring or outer circular array of cavities.

More specifically and with reference to fig. 30, the fastener cartridge assembly 5120 comprises a cartridge body 5122 that includes a circular deck 5130. The circular platform 5130 can form a planar surface 5132 that is arranged to face the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. The first ring 5036 of the first chamber 5040 is disposed in the circular platform 5130 and the second ring 5160 of the second chamber 5170 is disposed through the cartridge platform 5130 as shown. Each of the first and

second cavities

5040 and 5170 is configured to receive at least one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown), the surgical staple or surgical fastener being operably supported on a driver assembly 5060 that is movably supported in the body 5122 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5120.

Each fastener cavity 5040 includes two cavity ends 5042, 5044. Each cavity end 5042 is positioned on a first circular axis "FCA" having a first radius "FR". The first radius "FR" may be measured from the instrument shaft axis "SA". Each cavity end 5044 is positioned on a second circular axis "SCA" having a second radius "SR" that is different from the first radius "FR". In the illustrated embodiment, the second radius "SR", also measured from the shaft axis "SA", is greater than the first radius "FR". Each fastener cavity 5040 includes a cavity axis "CA". In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 is disposed in the circular platform 5130 relative to the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA" such that each cavity axis "CA" forms an acute angle with the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA". In other words, the cavity ends 5042 of adjacent fastener cavities 5040 are adjacent to each other and the ends 5044 of the same fastener cavity 5040 are spaced apart from each other. Such an arrangement may be referred to herein as a "zig-zag" orientation. However, in other arrangements, the cavity axis "CA" may be perpendicular to the first circular axis "FCA" and the second circular axis "SCA".

Also in the arrangement shown in fig. 30, each

cavity end

5042, 5044 may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate at a point. For example, each cavity end 5042 may generally terminate at a point 5043 and each end 5044 may generally terminate at a point 5045. The point 5043 may be positioned on or intersect the first circular axis "FCA" and the point 5045 may be positioned on or intersect the second circular axis "SCA". Such a cavity arrangement results in the application of surgical staples or fasteners in a pattern similar to tissue. Also in the illustrated arrangement, the second ring 5160 includes a plurality of second fastener cavities 5170 aligned on a third circular axis "TCA" disposed at a third radius "TR" from the axis "SA". In the arrangement shown, the third radius "TR" is smaller than the first radius and the second radius. However, in other arrangements, the third radius "TR" is greater than the first radius. However, in other arrangements, the third radius "TR" is greater than the first and second radii.

The unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly 5120 is used to orient staples or fasteners in tissue such that they will be "adjustable" relative to the amount of expansion applied to the staple line. Surgical staples that can be used include, for example, two staple legs extending from a central body portion or crown. The legs may be received in the V-shaped ends of the fastener cavities such that when they are ejected from the cavities, the legs extend through the first circular axis "FCA", the second circular axis "SCA", or the third circular axis "TCA", which is possible in any case. These staple orientations can lead to an improvement in the problems associated with staple stenosis described above. For example, one ring of staples or fasteners (e.g., the second ring 5160) provides a standard sealing feature, and the first ring 5036 can be more consistent with the radial and flexible aspects of the staple line. Accordingly, such an arrangement may also provide the same or similar advantages as discussed above with respect to the fastener cartridge assembly 5020.

Fig. 31 illustrates another unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly 5220, which can also address the various problems and concerns described above. As can be seen from this figure, the fastener cavities are arranged in an "asymmetric pattern" in which the staples applied through the inner ring of cavities have a different function than those staples or fasteners applied through the outer ring of cavities.

More specifically and with reference to fig. 31, the fastener cartridge assembly 5220 comprises a cartridge body 5222 which comprises a circular platform 5230. The circular platform 5230 can form a planar surface 5232 that is arranged to face the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. The first ring 5236 of the first chamber 5240 is disposed in a circular platform 5230, and the second ring 5260 of the second chamber 5270 is disposed through the cartridge platform 5230, as shown. Each of the first and

second chambers

5240 and 5270 can be configured to receive at least one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown), the surgical staple or surgical fastener being operatively supported on a driver assembly 5060 that is movably supported in the body 5222 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5220.

Each fastener cavity 5240 includes two cavity ends 5242, 5244. Each cavity end 5242 is positioned on a first circular axis "FCA" having a first radius "FR". The first radius "FR" may be measured from the instrument shaft axis "SA". Each cavity end 5244 is positioned on a second circular axis "SCA" having a second radius "SR" that is different from the first radius "FR". In the illustrated embodiment, the second radius "SR", also measured from the shaft axis "SA", is greater than the first radius "FR". Each fastener cavity 5240 includes a cavity axis "CA". In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5240 is disposed in the circular platform 5230 relative to the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA" such that each cavity axis "CA" forms an acute angle with the first and second circular axes "FCA" and "SCA".

Also in the arrangement shown in fig. 31, each

cavity end

5242, 5244 can be V-shaped such that they generally terminate at a point. For example, each cavity end 5242 can generally terminate at a point 5243 and each end 5244 can generally terminate at a point 5245. Point 5243 can be positioned on or intersect the first circular axis "FCA" and point 5245 can be positioned on or intersect the second circular axis "SCA". Such a cavity arrangement results in the application of surgical staples or fasteners in a pattern similar to tissue. Also in the illustrated arrangement, the second ring 5260 comprises a plurality of second fastener cavities 5270 that are aligned on a third circular axis "TCA" that is disposed at a third radius "TR" from the axis "SA". In the arrangement shown, the third radius "TR" is smaller than the first radius and the second radius. However, in other arrangements, the third radius "TR" is greater than the first radius. However, in other arrangements, the third radius "TR" is greater than the first and second radii. These staple orientations can lead to improvements in the problems associated with the staple structures described above. In particular, the staple configuration formed when the fastener cartridge assembly 5220 is employed can enable the staple line to expand and bend more like the original colon than conventional staple lines. For example, the staples or fasteners may twist as they are pulled radially, allowing them to minimize stress on the healing area and maximize flexibility and strength.

It has been demonstrated that the secondary membrane/support material can improve hemostasis and emphysema by sealing around the tip of the staple. In many applications, the buttress material is used to stiffen and/or strengthen soft tissue. Various buttress material arrangements have been developed and configured for placement on a surgical staple cartridge or anvil of a surgical stapling device. Attaching the buttress member to the cartridge or anvil and then releasing the buttress material therefrom can be challenging. Fig. 58 illustrates the surgical end effector 5300 and portions of the surgical cutting and fastening instrument 5400. The end effector 5300 employs a unique and novel arrangement for attaching and releasing the support member 5500 from the surgical staple cartridge 5320. An example of a SURGICAL cutting and fastening instrument of the type shown in FIG. 58 is disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS," filed on 30 months 6, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Additional details beyond that needed to understand the construction and use of the end effector 5300 can be gleaned with reference to this document, as well as many other documents incorporated by reference herein.

As can be seen in fig. 58, the end effector 5300 shown therein includes an elongate staple channel 5302 that is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 5320 therein. The elongate staple channels 5302 are coupled to a spine portion 5404 that is operably supported within the elongate shaft assembly 5402 of the surgical stapling instrument 5400. The staple cartridge 5320 comprises a cartridge body 5322 which can be made of a polymeric material. In the illustrated embodiment, a metal chassis 5324 is attached to the cartridge body 5322. The cartridge body 5322 comprises a deck 5330 having a plurality of staple cavities 5332 defined therein. Each staple cavity 5332 is configured to removably store a staple therein. The cartridge body 5322 further comprises a longitudinal slot configured to removably receive the firing member 5410 therein. The cartridge body 5320 can further comprise a distal end 5326, a proximal end 5328, and opposing longitudinal sides 5329 extending between the distal end 5326 and the proximal end 5328. In various instances, each longitudinal side 5329 can include an uninterrupted, contiguous or continuous edge defined therein.

Positioned within each staple cavity 5332 is a staple 5342 that is supported on a corresponding staple driver 5340 that is movably supported within the cartridge body 5322. As the firing member 5410 is driven distally through the staple cartridge 5320, the staple drivers 5340 are lifted upward. As discussed in more detail in U.S. patent application serial No. 14/318,991, firing member 5410 is configured to advance staple sled 5350 distally to lift staple drivers 5340 and staples 5342 upwardly and out of staple cavities 5332. The end effector 5300 also includes an anvil 5360 mounted to the elongate staple channel 5302. In the illustrated embodiment, the anvil 5360 comprises a pair of lugs 5362 movably received in lug slots 5304 in the elongate staple channels 5302. As further seen in fig. 58, the anvil 5360 includes anvil tabs 5364 that interact with the closure tube segment 5420. Movement of the closure tube segment 5420 in the distal direction "DD" can move the anvil 5360 in a direction toward the staple cartridge 5320. Movement of the closure tube 5420 in the proximal direction "PD" causes the anvil to move away from the staple cartridge 5320. Other embodiments may employ a cartridge and anvil arrangement in which the anvil is stationary (e.g., immovably fixed to an elongate shaft of a surgical device) and the elongate channel and/or staple cartridge is movable toward and away from the anvil.

As can be seen in fig. 58 and 59, the support member 5500 is configured to be received between a surgical staple cartridge 5320 and an anvil 5360. More specifically, the support member 5500 is configured to be received between the staple forming undersurface 5366 of the anvil 5360 and the deck 5330 of the staple cartridge 5320. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 5500 is configured to be mounted in tension on the deck 5330 of the staple cartridge 5320. The support material comprising the support member 5500 may include, for example, Gore SeamGuard material, Synovis Peri-Strips material, and/or polyurethane. Other suitable support or auxiliary materials are disclosed in U.S. patent application serial No. 14/318,991 entitled "SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS," filed on 30.6.2014, the entire disclosure of which was previously incorporated herein by reference. Various other suitable support and auxiliary materials are also disclosed in U.S. patent application serial No. 13/763,095 entitled "LAYER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGES," filed on 28.2.2013, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. The entire disclosures of the following applications are also incorporated herein by reference: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,619 filed on 25/6/2012 and entitled "TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPENSATING INCORATING A HEMOSTATIC AGENT", U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,623 filed on 25/6/25/2012 and entitled "TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORATITING AN OXYGEN GENERATING AGENT", U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,627 filed on 25/6/2012 and entitled "TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORATITING AN ANTI-MICROBIAL AGENT", and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/531,630 filed on 25/6/2012 and entitled "TISSUE STAPLER HAVING A THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCORATING AN ANTI-INMMATORY AGENT".

In the illustrated embodiment, the staple cartridge 5320 includes protrusions 5336 that extend upwardly from the deck 5330 adjacent each staple cavity 5332 in various manners and arrangements as described in detail in U.S. patent application serial No. 14/318,991. In other embodiments, the staple cartridge does not have such protrusions. In the illustrated embodiment, the support member 5500 includes an aperture 5502 therein that corresponds to the protrusion 5336. See, for example, fig. 61 and 62. However, as can be seen in those figures, the holes 5502 only receive the projections 5336 such that the support material spans an area corresponding to at least a portion of the crown of the staple supported in the cavity. Those portions of the buttress material corresponding to the crown portions are generally identified as 5504 in FIGS. 61 and 62.

The support member 5500 comprises means for releasably securing the support member 5500 to the cartridge body 5322 such that the support member 5500 is held in tension thereon prior to actuation of the surgical instrument and is then released from the cartridge body 5322 as the surgical instrument is actuated or "fired". For example, as seen in fig. 58, the support member 5500 includes a distal end 5503 having at least one distal retention feature 5506 therein. In the illustrated arrangement, two distal holes 5506 are provided in the distal end 5503 and are configured to receive corresponding retention members 5338 that protrude from the distal end 5326 of the cartridge body 5322. As shown in fig. 59 and 60, the retaining member 5338 is configured to be received within a distal aperture 5506 in the distal end portion 5503 of the support member 5500 to releasably retain the distal end of the support member 5500 on the distal end portion 5326 of the cartridge 5320. Other forms of releasable retention members (shapes, numbers, sizes, configurations) and arrangements can also be employed to releasably retain the support member 5500 on the staple cartridge 5320 when tension is applied to the support member 5500 in the proximal and/or distal directions.

Turning to fig. 63-65, the support member 5500 includes a proximal end portion 5510 having a proximal retention feature 5511 thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal retention feature 5511 includes at least one retention tab 5512 projecting proximally therefrom. The retention tabs 5512 are positioned such that when the holes 5506 are inserted over the retention members 5338 on the cartridge body 5322 and the support members 5500 are received on the cartridge deck 5330, the retention tabs 5512 are aligned with the elongated slots 5334 in the cartridge body 5322. See fig. 64. When the staple sled 5350 is in its proximal starting position within the cartridge 5320, the retention tabs 5512 are folded onto the proximal end of the cartridge body and are retained within the elongated slots 5334 by the staple sled 5350. Staple sled 5350 can be of the type and configuration disclosed in U.S. patent serial No. 14/318,991, which includes a stabilizing member 5352 that extends distally to stabilize sled 5350 and prevent and/or inhibit rocking or rotation of staple sled 5350. As can be seen in fig. 65, the retention tabs 5512 are retained within the elongated slots 5534 by the stabilizing member 5352 and/or other portions of the staple slider 5350. Such an arrangement serves to hold the support member 5500 in tension on the staple platform 5330. In other words, the support member 5500 may extend between the retaining member 5338 and the proximal end 5328 of the staple cartridge 5320. When the clinician actuates the surgical instrument to begin the firing process, the firing member 5410 is advanced distally in the distal direction "DD". The firing member 5410 interfaces with the staple sled 5350, and as discussed in U.S. patent application serial No. 14/318,991, the firing member 5410 moves the staple sled 5350 distally through the staple cartridge 5320 to drive the staple drivers 5340 upwardly such that the staples 5342 supported thereon are driven into forming contact with the underside 5366 of the anvil 5360 and the tissue clamped between the anvil 5360 and the staple cartridge 5320 is severed by the cutting member 5410. Once the staple sled 5350 has been disengaged from retaining engagement with the retention tabs 5512, the retention tabs 5512 are released, thereby enabling the support material 5500 to be removed from the staple cartridge 5320 with stapled tissue. Such an arrangement serves to release tension in the support material 5500 at the beginning of the firing process. Furthermore, such a support arrangement does not require additional release features or configurations.

Existing suturing techniques are not particularly suited for tissues that undergo stretching during the healing process. For example, in thoracic parenchymal suturing, a staple line is fired over the lungs in the collapsed configuration. After the surgery is completed, the lungs are inflated, which often results in doubling the surface area of the lungs. Existing suturing techniques generally do not have the same degree of stretching capability as lung tissue. This can result in significant strain gradients in close proximity to the staple line, which can result in high stresses within the staple line, particularly in the rows of staples furthest from the cutting edge. Accordingly, techniques are needed that allow the staple line to stretch and/or increase in length in order to mitigate the strain gradient and associated stresses to eliminate or at least reduce potential sources of blow-by.

It has been demonstrated that the secondary membrane/support material can improve hemostasis and emphysema by sealing around the tip of the staple. In many applications, the buttress material is used to stiffen and/or strengthen soft tissue. However, existing support materials may not be sufficiently elastic so as not to interfere with the compliance of the elastic staple line. Fig. 66-68 illustrate one form of support material 6100 that may address such issues. As can be seen in these figures, the buttress material 6100 includes a buttress body 6102 sized to be operably received on a deck 6004 of a surgical staple cartridge 6000. In the illustrated embodiment, the surgical staple cartridge 6000 comprises a cartridge body 6002 that defines a deck 6004. The cartridge body 6002 includes a centrally disposed elongate slot 6006 that is configured to receive a tissue cutting member (not shown) therethrough. A plurality of staple pockets or staple cavities are provided in the deck 6004 on each side of the elongate slot 6006. As shown, a first row 6010 of first chambers 6012 is disposed on each side of the elongated slot 6006. The first chambers 6012 in each first row 6010 are parallel to each other. Each of the first chambers 6012 is disposed at an angle relative to and adjacent to the elongate slot 6006. The illustrated cartridge body 6002 also includes two rows 6020 of second staple cavities 6022 arranged at an angle relative to the first staple cavities 6012. Two rows 6030 of third staple cavities 6032 are also disposed in the cartridge body 6002 as shown. In at least one form, the third staple cavity 6032 is parallel to the corresponding first staple cavity 6012. However, other staple or fastener cavity arrangements may be employed. Further, the cartridge body 6002 may have a lateral flange 6008 projecting laterally therefrom. As can also be seen in fig. 66, the proximal end 6003 of the cartridge body 6002 is narrower than the remainder of the cartridge body 6002.

In the illustrated embodiment, the support body 6102 includes four

edges

6110, 6140, 6150, 6160 and a central portion 6152. At least two of the

edges

6110, 6140, 6150, 6160 include various edge notch configurations. In the illustrated embodiment, the

edges

6110, 6160 include edge notches therein. More specifically, as can be seen in fig. 67, a first set of first edge notches 6114 is formed in a first portion 6112 of the first edge 6110. In the illustrated embodiment, the first edge notches 6114 extend inward from the first edge portion 6112 at a first acute angle 6115 ("notch angle") and are parallel to each other. As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the second edge notch 6118 extends inward from the second portion 6116 of the first edge portion 6112. In one arrangement, for example, the second edge notch 6118 extends perpendicularly inward from the second portion 6116 ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the third edge notch 6122 extends inward from the third portion 6120 of the first edge portion 6110. In one arrangement, for example, the third edge notch 6122 extends perpendicularly inward from the third portion 6120 ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the fourth edge notch 6126 extends inward from the fourth portion 6124 of the first edge portion 6110. In one arrangement, for example, the fourth edge notch 6126 extends inward from the fourth portion 6124 at an acute angle ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the fifth edge notch 6130 extends inward from the fifth portion 6128 of the first edge portion 6110. In one arrangement, for example, the fifth edge notch 6130 extends inward from the fifth portion 6128 at an acute angle ("notch angle").

Still referring to fig. 66 and 67, a series of primary edge notches 6164 extend inwardly from the primary portion 6162 of the second edge portion 6160. In the illustrated arrangement, the primary edge notch 6164 extends perpendicularly inward from the primary edge portion 6162 ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the secondary edge notch 6168 extends inward from the secondary portion 6166 of the second edge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, the secondary edge notch 6168 extends inward from the secondary edge portion 6166 at an acute angle ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the tertiary edge notch 6172 extends inward from the tertiary portion 6170 of the second edge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, the tertiary edge notch 6172 extends inwardly from the tertiary portion 6170 at an acute angle ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the four level edge notch 6176 extends inward from the four level portion 6174 of the second edge 6160. In one arrangement, for example, the four-level edge notch 6176 extends perpendicularly inward from the four-level portion 6174 ("notch angle"). As further seen in fig. 66 and 67, the five-level edge notch 6180 extends inwardly from the five-level portion 6178 of the second edge portion 6160. In one arrangement, for example, a fifth order edge notch 6180 extends perpendicularly inward ("notch angle") from the fifth order portion 6178.

The support material 6100 shown in fig. 66 and 67 also has five different widths W1, W2, W3, W4, W5 along the total length of the support 6100. W1 corresponds to edge

portions

6112, 6162. W2 corresponds to edge

portions

6116, 6166. W3 corresponds to edge

portions

6120, 6170. W4 corresponds to edge

portions

6124, 6174. W5 corresponds to edge

portions

6128, 6178. Other embodiments of buttress materials can have a constant width or a different number of widths that facilitate operable support on a staple cartridge and/or anvil of a surgical stapling instrument. Further, the number, shape, size, and arrangement of edge notches may vary depending on the embodiment.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 66 and 67, support material 6100 includes a plurality of cut-out openings therein. As can be seen in those figures, the cuts are arranged in parallel rows. In particular, the cuts 6204 in the rows 6200 comprise slits that are arranged at an angle relative to the edge portions such that the cuts 6204 in each row 6200 are parallel to each other. The cutout 6204 may or may not extend completely through the support material 6100. Similarly, the cutout 6206 in row 6202 comprises a slit that is perpendicular to the edge portion of support material 6100. The cutout 6206 may or may not extend completely through the support material 6100. In other embodiments, the number, shape, size, orientation, spacing, depth, and location of such cuts may vary.

FIG. 68 illustrates an incision arrangement in which

staple cavity locations

6012, 6022, and 6032 are shown in phantom. As can be seen from this figure, when the buttress material 6100 is positioned to register on the deck 6004 of the surgical staple cartridge 6000, none of the

cutouts

6204, 6206 are partially positioned over any of the

staple cavities

6012, 6022, 6032. Fig. 69 shows a similar support material arrangement, with

staple cavities

6012, 6022, and 6032 shown in phantom. The portion 6103 of the buttress material 6100' where the staple/fastener legs will eventually penetrate is also shown in phantom. Portion 6103 may also be referred to herein as a "staple penetration zone". As can be seen from this figure, none of the

cuts

6208, 6209 are partially over any or the staple penetration zone 6103. The

cuts

6208 and 6209 are arranged in longitudinal rows in the support material 6100'. The cuts 6208 in each row are generally parallel to each other and are arranged at an acute angle relative to the edge of the support material 6100'. Similarly, the cutouts 6209 in each row are generally parallel to each other and are arranged such that they are perpendicular to the cutouts 6208 in the adjacent row. The cutout 6208 may or may not extend completely through the support material 6100'. Additionally, as can be seen in fig. 69, an entire row of cutouts 6208 is located between the location of the fastener cavities 6032 and the edge of the support material 6100 'to facilitate further flexibility of the support material 6100'. As with other embodiments, the number, shape, size, orientation, spacing, depth, and location of such cuts may vary.

Figure 70 shows another support member embodiment 6100 ". In this embodiment, the support material includes a plurality of edge notches 6300 that include undulating wave curves forming a serpentine edge. Such edge notches/serpentine edges allow for staple rotation while reducing material stress during expansion.

Fig. 71 and 72 show another support member 6400 made of a woven material that may or may not be bioabsorbable. Additionally, the support material may comprise any of the support materials described herein, and include the unique and novel attributes described below. For example, the support member 6400 can include holes or openings 6402 therethrough for mating with correspondingly shaped portions (e.g., posts, protrusions, etc.) of a surgical staple cartridge or anvil to support the support member 6400 in a desired orientation/registration with respect to the staples/fasteners in the staple cartridge. In the illustrated arrangement, the support member 6400 includes a plurality of

staple zones

6404, 6406, 6408 therein for registering with

corresponding fastener cavities

6012, 6022, 6032 in the surgical staple cartridge when the support member 6400 is supported on the cartridge deck. The staple zones may be formed by compressing the material and heating it to cause the material to permanently assume a compressed state. As can be seen in fig. 72, the compressed staple region (generally designated 6410) has a smaller cross-sectional thickness than the adjacent non-compressed portion of buttress member 6400 (generally designated 6412). Further, the support member 6400 may have

linear edges

6420, 6422, 6424 and/or serpentine edges 6426. The support member may have a shape that corresponds to the shape of a surgical staple cartridge and/or anvil of the surgical instrument.

All of the foregoing support member embodiments can be used on a deck of a surgical staple cartridge or in conjunction with an anvil of a surgical stapling apparatus. All of the support members may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the surgical staple cartridge and/or anvil, and may have straight or linear edges or edge portions and/or wavy, serrated and/or serpentine edges, or a combination of such edge configurations. The support members may have a constant width or they may have multiple widths. The cuts through the buttress material remove excess material to facilitate or allow for more deformation, distortion, etc. of the buttress, with less stress in the overall buttress material during longitudinal expansion. In other words, the cut enables the buttress to "fold" in the same manner as when the tack itself is moving. The serpentine or irregular edges allow the nail to rotate while reducing material stresses during expansion. The support configuration described above includes a "softened structure" that allows for increased extensibility while still sealing the relevant area. Furthermore, the above-described support member not only does not inhibit the nail from twisting, but also allows the nail and the auxiliary (buttress) to move in the same manner when extended. Such a support member arrangement comprises a support member which essentially comprises areas of various mechanical actions allowing for optimal performance of the staple line.

Fig. 73-78 illustrate another staple cartridge 6500 that is similar in construction to the staple cartridge 6000 described above, except that the staple cartridge 6500 additionally includes a plurality of projections. In the illustrated embodiment, the surgical staple cartridge 6500 comprises a cartridge body 6502 defining a deck 6504. The cartridge body 6502 is mounted in a chassis 6524 and includes a centrally disposed elongated slot 6506 configured to receive a tissue cutting member (not shown) therethrough. A plurality of staple pockets of staple cavities are disposed in the lands 6504 on each side of the elongated slot 6506. As shown, a first row 6510 of first cavities 6512 is disposed on each side of the elongated slot 6506. The first cavities 6512 in each first row 6510 are parallel to one another. Each of the first cavities 6512 is disposed at an angle relative to and adjacent to the elongated slot 6506. The illustrated cartridge body 6502 further comprises two rows 6520 of second staple cavities 6522 arranged at an angle relative to the first staple cavities 6512. Two rows 6530 of third staple cavities 6532 are also disposed in the cartridge body, as shown. In at least one form, the third staple cavities 6532 are parallel to the corresponding first staple cavities 6512. The cartridge body 6502 also has two longitudinal sides 6508.

The cartridge body 6502 can also comprise a plurality of projections 6550 extending from the deck surface 6504. The projections 6550 can be configured to engage tissue positioned intermediate the anvil 5360 and the cartridge 6500 and control the movement of the tissue relative to the cartridge 6500. The tissue may move relative to the cartridge 6500 in various circumstances. In at least one instance, the tissue can flow relative to the cartridge 6500 when the anvil is moved between the open position and the closed position (wherein the tissue is compressed between the anvil and the cartridge 6500). In such instances, the tissue may flow laterally toward the longitudinal sides 6508, distally toward the distal ends 6503, and/or proximally toward the proximal ends 6505. In at least one other instance, the tissue can flow relative to the cartridge 6500 as the cutting member is advanced distally through the tissue captured between the anvil and the cartridge 6500. In such cases, the tissue may flow laterally, distally, and/or proximally, but as the cutting edge moves distally, the tissue flows primarily distally. In various circumstances, the projections 6550 can be configured to limit or prevent the flow of tissue relative to the staple cartridge. The projections 6550 may be positioned at the proximal and/or distal ends of the

staple cavities

6512, 6522, 6532. In various instances, each protrusion 6550 may comprise a sleeve extending around the end of the

corresponding staple cavity

6512, 6522, and 6532. In some cases, each protrusion 6550 may include an arcuate ridge extending around the

corresponding staple cavity

6512, 6522, and 6532.

Fig. 76-78 illustrate a cartridge arrangement including a protrusion 6550. The cartridge arrangement shown in fig. 73-75 is similar to the cartridge of fig. 76-78, but also includes rows of protruding posts 6560 formed on the platform surface 6504. In the arrangement of fig. 73-75, for example, a protruding post 6560 is disposed between each

staple cavity

6512, 6522 and 6532 in each row of staple cavities. The protruding posts 6560 serve to further control the flow of tissue during the clamping and firing process.

Referring primarily to fig. 73, the cartridge body 6502 includes a sloped transition 6570 extending between the distal tip of the cartridge body 6502 and the platform surface 6504. The angled transition 6570 facilitates movement of the cartridge 6500 relative to the tissue when positioning the cartridge 6500 and anvil within the surgical site. In this case, the tissue may slide on the sloped surface 6570. In other arrangements, the sloped surface 6570 comprises a radiused surface. In the illustrated arrangement, the sloped surface 6570 comprises an angled surface. In further arrangements, the sloped surface 6570 includes a concave surface and/or a convex surface.

The

staple cavities

6512, 6522 and 6532 defined in the cartridge body 6502 are arranged in longitudinal rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 6506. Each protrusion 6550 may be configured to support at least a portion of a staple 6542 removably stored in a

staple cavity

6512, 6522, and 6532. In various instances, each protrusion 6550 may extend the

end walls

6513, 6515 of the

staple cavities

6512, 6522, and 6532 above the platform 6504. In some instances, referring generally to fig. 78, a staple 6542 positioned within a

staple cavity

6512, 6522, 6532 includes a base 6543, a first leg 6545 extending from the base 6543 at a first angle, and a second leg 6547 extending from the base 6543 at a second angle. The first leg 6545 may be in contact with the first end wall 6513 of the staple cavity 6532 and the second leg 6547 may be in contact with the second end wall 6515 of the

staple cavity

6512, 6522, 6532. In some instances, the distance or spread between the first and

second legs

6545, 6547 of the staple 6542 may be wider than the distance between the

end walls

6513, 6515, such that when the staple 6542 is positioned within the

staple cavity

6512, 6522, 6532, the

legs

6545, 6547 are biased inwardly by the

end walls

6513, 6515. When the staples 6542 are stored in their unfired or un-lifted positions within the

staple cavities

6512, 6522, 6532, the tips of the

staple legs

6545, 6547 can be positioned within the protrusions 6550. In this case, the projections 6550 may support and protect the

staple leg tips

6545, 6547 above the platform 6504. In some instances, the tips of the

staple legs

6545, 6547 can be positioned below the protrusions 6550 when the staples 6542 are in their unfired positions, and thus, the protrusions 6550 may not support the

staple legs

6545, 6547 when the staples 6542 are in their unfired positions. When such staples 6542 are fired or lifted out of the

staple cavities

6512, 6522, 6532, the

staple legs

6545, 6547 can then contact and be supported by the protrusions 6550. In any event, the protrusions 6550 can continue to support the

staple legs

6545, 6547 as the staples 6542 are deployed until the staples 6542 have been sufficiently fired and/or lifted out of the

staple cavities

6512, 6522, 6532 such that the

staple legs

6545, 6547 are no longer in contact with the protrusions 6550.

The layer (such as a support material) may be made of any biocompatible material, for example. The support material may be formed of natural and/or synthetic materials. The support material may be bioabsorbable and/or non-bioabsorbable. It should be understood that any combination of natural, synthetic, bioabsorbable, and non-bioabsorbable materials may be used to form the support material. Some non-limiting examples of materials from which the support material may be made include, but are not limited to, for example, poly (lactic acid), poly (glycolic acid), poly (hydroxybutyrate), poly (phosphazine), polyesters, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polyacrylamide, polyhydroxyethylacrylate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polyacetate, polycaprolactone, polypropylene, aliphatic polyesters, glycerol, poly (amino acids), copoly (ether esters), polyalkylene oxalates, polyamides, poly (iminocarbonates), polyalkylene oxalates, polyoxaesters, polyorthoesters, polyphosphazenes and copolymers, block copolymers, homopolymers, blends, and/or combinations thereof.

Natural biopolymers can be used to form the support material. Suitable natural biopolymers include, but are not limited to, for example, collagen, gelatin, fibrin, fibrinogen, elastin, keratin, albumin, hydroxyethylcellulose, cellulose, oxidized cellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, carboxyethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, chitin, chitosan, and/or combinations thereof. The natural biopolymers can be combined with other polymeric materials described herein to make support materials. Collagen of human and/or animal origin, such as porcine or bovine type I, human type I or human type III collagen, may be used to form the support material. The support material may be made of denatured collagen or collagen which at least partially loses its helical structure by heating or any other method, which consists mainly of non-hydrated a-chains with a molecular weight close to e.g. 100 kDa. The term "denatured collagen" refers to collagen that loses its helical structure. The collagen used for the porous layer described herein may be, for example, native collagen or atelocollagen (atelocollagen), in particular as obtained by pepsin digestion and/or after mild heating as defined previously. The collagen may have been previously chemically modified by oxidation, methylation, succinylation, ethylation, and/or any other known process.

Where the support material is a fiber, the fiber may be a filament or thread suitable for knitting or weaving, or may be a staple fiber such as those commonly used to make nonwoven materials. The fibers may be made of any biocompatible material. The fibers may be formed from natural or synthetic materials. The material forming the fibers may be a bioabsorbable material or a non-bioabsorbable material. It should be understood that any combination of natural, synthetic, bioabsorbable, and non-bioabsorbable materials may be used to form the fibers. Some non-limiting examples of materials from which the fibers may be made include, but are not limited to, poly (lactic acid), poly (glycolic acid), poly (hydroxybutyrate), poly (phosphazine), polyesters, polyethylene glycol, polyethylene oxide, polyacrylamide, polyhydroxyethylacrylate, polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol, polyacrylic acid, polyacetate, polycaprolactone, polypropylene, aliphatic polyesters, glycerol, poly (amino acids), copoly (ether esters), polyalkylene oxalates, polyamides, poly (iminocarbonates), polyalkylene oxalates, polyoxaesters, polyorthoesters, polyphosphazenes and copolymers, block copolymers, homopolymers, blends, and/or combinations thereof. Where the support material is a fiber, the support material may be formed using any method suitable for forming a fibrous structure including, but not limited to, for example, knitting, weaving, non-woven techniques, and the like. Where the support material is a foam, the porous layer may be formed using any method suitable for forming a foam or sponge, including but not limited to, for example, lyophilization and freeze drying of the composition.

The support material may have hemostatic properties. Illustrative examples of materials that can be used to provide a support material with the ability to assist in stopping bleeding or bleeding include, but are not limited to, for example, poly (lactic acid), poly (glycolic acid), poly (hydroxybutyrate), poly (caprolactone), poly (dioxanone), polyalkylene oxide, copoly (ether ester), collagen, gelatin, thrombin, fibrin, fibrinogen, fibronectin, elastin, albumin, hemoglobin, ovalbumin, polysaccharides, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, hydroxyethyl starch, hydroxyethyl cellulose, oxidized cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, carboxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, chitosan, agarose, maltose, maltodextrin, alginate, coagulation factors, methyl acrylate, polyurethane, cyanoacrylates, platelet agonists, vasoconstrictors, collagen, gelatin, thrombin, fibrin, collagen, and a polysaccharide, a cellulose, a polysaccharide, a cellulose, a polysaccharide, a cellulose, Alum, calcium, RGD peptide, protein, protamine sulfate, epsilon-aminocaproic acid, ferric sulfate, ferric sulfite, ferric chloride, zinc chloride, aluminum sulfate, aluminum acetate, permanganate, tannin, bone wax, polyethylene glycol, fucosan and/or combinations thereof. The use of natural biopolymers and in particular proteins may be suitable for forming support materials with hemostatic properties. Suitable natural biopolymers include, but are not limited to, for example, collagen, gelatin, fibrin, fibrinogen, elastin, keratin, albumin, and/or combinations thereof. The natural biopolymer can be combined with any other hemostatic agent to make the porous layer of the buttress. The entire disclosure of U.S. patent 8,496,683 entitled "BUTTRESS AND SURGICAL STAPLING APPATUS" published on 30.7.2013 is incorporated herein by reference.

The complete disclosures of the following patents are hereby incorporated by reference:

U.S. patent 5,403,312 entitled "ELECTROSURURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE" published 4.4.1995;

U.S. Pat. No. 3, 7,000,818 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS" published 2006, 2, 21;

U.S. Pat. No. 3, 7,422,139 entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK" published 9/2008;

U.S. patent 7,464,849 entitled "ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS" published 16.12.2008;

U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334 entitled "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVATING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR" published 3/2/2010;

U.S. patent 7,753,245 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS" published on 13.7.2010;

us patent 8,393,514 entitled "SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE" published on 12.3.2013;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/343,803 (now U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,537) entitled "SURGICAL Instrument with RECORDING capability (SURGICAL INSTRUMENTs capable of RECORDING)";

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,573 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING and fastening device with RF electrode (SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTT HAVATING RF ELECTRORDES)" filed on 14.2.2008;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,873 (now U.S. patent 7,980,443), entitled "END effector FOR SURGICAL CUTTING and stapling Instrument (END effector FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTENT"), filed on 15.2.2008;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/235,782 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411) entitled "Motor-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING Instrument" (Motor-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING Instrument);

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/249,117 (now U.S. patent 8,608,045) entitled "charged SURGICAL CUTTING and stapling APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE firing System (POWER SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM)";

U.S. patent application serial No. 12/647,100 (now U.S. patent 8,220,688), entitled "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT with electric ACTUATOR direction CONTROL ASSEMBLY" (MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR direction CONTROL), filed 24.12.2009;

U.S. patent application serial No. 12/893,461 (now U.S. patent 8,733,613) entitled "staple cartridge (STAPLE CARTRIDGE)" filed on 9, 29, 2012;

U.S. patent application serial No. 13/036,647 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT" (now U.S. patent 8,561,870), filed 28/2/2011;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS" (now U.S. patent application publication 2012/0298719);

U.S. patent application serial No. 13/524,049 (now U.S. patent application publication 2013/0334278), entitled "article subassembly filing A FIRING DRIVE," filed 6, 15/2012;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,025 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESSENSOR SYSTEM" filed on 13/3/2013;

U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067 entitled "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESSENSOR SYSTEM" filed on 13/3/2013;

U.S. patent application publication 2007/0175955 entitled "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENTT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM" filed on 31.1.2006; and

U.S. patent application publication 2010/0264194 entitled "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR" filed on 22.4.2010 (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,040).

While various embodiments of the device have been set forth herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations to these embodiments may be practiced. In addition, where materials for certain components are disclosed, other materials may be used. Further, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components may also be replaced with a single component, to perform a given function or functions. It is intended that the above description and the following claims cover all such modifications and variations.

The device disclosed herein may be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or it may be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. The repair may include any combination of the following steps: disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular parts and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device may be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. After cleaning and/or replacement of particular components, the device may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. The use of these techniques and the resulting prosthetic devices are all within the scope of the present application.

Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed prior to surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and, if necessary, cleaned. The instrument may then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation (such as gamma radiation, X-rays, or high energy electrons) that can penetrate the container. The radiation kills bacteria in the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in a sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains.

Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. Likewise, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

Claims

1. A staple cartridge, comprising:

a cartridge body, wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into said cartridge body, and wherein a longitudinal slot is defined at least partially through said cartridge body; and

a plurality of staples removably positioned in the staple cavities, wherein the plurality of staples comprises a first staple and a second staple, wherein each of the staples is oriented at an unstretched angle relative to the longitudinal slot, and wherein the plurality of staples are arranged to form a longitudinally stretchable array within stapled tissue;

wherein each of the staples is deformable from an unfired configuration to a fired configuration, wherein the first staple has a first formed height when in the fired configuration, wherein the second staple has a second formed height when in the fired configuration, wherein the first formed height is different than the second formed height, and wherein the first staple and the second staple are positioned and arranged such that the first staple and the second staple provide laterally overlapping staple lines to provide laterally variable tissue compression within the longitudinally stretchable array.

2. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein said plurality of staples further comprises a third staple, wherein said third staple has a third formed height when in said fired configuration, and wherein said third formed height is different than said first formed height and different than said second formed height.

3. The staple cartridge of claim 2, wherein said third formed height is greater than said second formed height, and wherein said second formed height is greater than said first formed height.

4. The staple cartridge of claim 3, wherein said first staple is adjacent to said longitudinal slot, wherein said second staple is laterally outboard relative to said first staple, and wherein said third staple is laterally outboard relative to said second staple.

5. The staple cartridge of claim 1, wherein each of said unextended angles comprises an angle between 45 degrees and 135 degrees relative to said longitudinal slot.

6. The staple cartridge of claim 5, wherein said first staples are angularly offset about 90 degrees relative to said second staples in said longitudinally extendable array.

7. The staple cartridge of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of staple drive surfaces, wherein said staple drive surfaces are configured to move each of said staples from an unfired position to a fired position, and wherein said staples are configured to deform from said unfired configuration to said fired configuration when said staple drive surfaces move said staples from said unfired position to said fired position.

8. An end effector, comprising:

a first jaw;

a second jaw comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge comprises;

a cartridge body, wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into the cartridge body, and wherein a longitudinal slot extends through at least a portion of the cartridge body; and

an array of staples removably positioned in the staple cavities, the array of staples positioned and arranged such that the array of staples provides laterally overlapping staple lines;

a cutting element movably positioned along the longitudinal slot;

a drive arrangement for driving the array of staples from the staple cavities into tissue positioned intermediate the first jaw and the second jaw;

a compression control device for providing lateral variation in compression to tissue stapled by the array of staples; and

a stretch adjustment device for adjusting longitudinal stretch in tissue stapled by the array of staples.

9. A staple cartridge, comprising:

a cartridge body comprising a deck, wherein a longitudinal slot is defined at least partially through the cartridge body, wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into the cartridge body, and wherein the deck comprises:

A first portion having a first elevation configured to affect compression of a first tissue; and

a second portion having a second elevation configured to affect a second tissue compression, wherein the second elevation is different from the first elevation and the second tissue compression is different from the first tissue compression, and wherein the second portion is positioned farther from the longitudinal slot than the first portion; and

a staple removably positioned in the staple cavity, the staple positioned and arranged such that the staple provides laterally overlapping staple lines, wherein the staple comprises:

a first leg and a second leg, wherein the second leg is positioned farther from the longitudinal slot than the first leg; and

a base intermediate the first leg and the second leg.

10. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein said first leg is aligned with said first portion of said deck, and wherein said second leg is aligned with said second portion of said deck.

11. The staple cartridge of claim 10, wherein said deck further comprises a step intermediate said first portion and said second portion, and wherein at least one of said staple cavities comprises an opening in said deck that traverses said step.

12. The staple cartridge of claim 11, wherein said step extends along an axis substantially parallel to said longitudinal slot.

13. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein said plurality of staple cavities comprises a first cavity, wherein said staples are removably positioned in said first cavity, wherein said first cavity comprises an opening in said deck, wherein said opening comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein said first end and said second end are positioned in said first portion of said deck.

14. The staple cartridge of claim 13, wherein said deck further comprises a step intermediate said first portion and said second portion, and wherein said step extends along a contoured path.

15. The staple cartridge of claim 14, wherein said staple cavities are arranged in a plurality of rows on a first side of said longitudinal slot, wherein said plurality of rows comprises a first row and a second row, and wherein said contoured path extends between said first row and said second row.

16. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein said base comprises a first end and a second end, wherein said first leg extends from said first end, wherein said second leg extends from said second end, wherein said staples are configured to assume a first formed height at said first end and a second formed height at said second end, and wherein said second formed height is different than said first formed height.

17. The staple cartridge of claim 9, wherein said first leg comprises a first end and a first length from said first end to said base when said staple is in an unformed configuration, wherein said second leg comprises a second end and a second length from said second end to said base when said staple is in said unformed configuration, wherein said second length is different than said first length.

18. An end effector, comprising:

a clamping device for clamping tissue, wherein the clamping device comprises a longitudinal slot;

a staple arrangement removably positioned in the clamping device, the staple arrangement being positioned and arranged such that the staple arrangement provides laterally overlapping staple lines;

a cutting device for cutting tissue clamped along the longitudinal slot;

a firing device for firing the arrangement of staples into clamped tissue;

a tissue flow reduction device for reducing lateral tissue flow in tissue grasped by the grasping device; and

a tissue stretch adjustment device for providing longitudinal strain relief to tissue stapled by the staple arrangement.

19. A surgical end effector, comprising:

a first jaw comprising a staple forming surface;

a second jaw comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and wherein the staple cartridge comprises:

a cartridge body comprising a deck, wherein a tissue compression gap is defined between said deck and said staple forming surface when said first and second jaws are in said closed configuration, wherein said deck comprises a first portion and a second portion, and wherein said tissue compression gap comprises a first gap height intermediate said first portion and said staple forming surface and a second gap height intermediate said second portion and said staple forming surface, and wherein said second gap height is different than said first gap height; and is

Wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into the cartridge body, wherein the plurality of staple cavities comprises a first cavity and a second cavity, wherein each of the staple cavities comprises an opening in the deck, and wherein the openings of the first cavities are angularly oriented relative to the openings of the second cavities; and

A plurality of staples removably positioned in the staple cavities, wherein the plurality of staples comprises a first staple removably positioned in the first cavity and a second staple removably positioned in the second cavity, the first staple and the second staple positioned and arranged such that the first staple and the second staple provide laterally overlapping staple lines.

20. The surgical end effector of claim 19, wherein each of said staples is movable from an unfired position to a fired position, wherein each of said staples is deformable from an undeformed configuration to a deformed configuration when moved from said unfired position to said fired position, wherein said first staple has a first deformed height when in said deformed configuration, and wherein said second staple has a second deformed height when in said deformed configuration, and wherein said first deformed height is different than said second deformed height.

21. The surgical end effector of claim 19, wherein a longitudinal slot is defined in the cartridge body, and wherein the opening of the first cavity and the opening of the second cavity are positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot and are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal slot.

22. The surgical end effector of claim 19, wherein the plurality of staples are arranged in a plurality of rows, wherein the plurality of rows comprises a first row and a second row, wherein the first cavity is located in the first row, and wherein the second cavity is located in the second row.

23. The surgical end effector of claim 22, wherein the first row is aligned with the first portion of the deck, and wherein the second row is aligned with the second portion of the deck.

24. The surgical end effector of claim 22, further comprising a driver movably positioned in said staple cartridge, wherein said driver comprises a first slot and a second slot, wherein said second slot is angularly oriented relative to said first slot, wherein said first staple comprises a first base, wherein said second staple comprises a second base, wherein said first base is aligned with said first slot, and wherein said second base is aligned with said second slot.

25. An end effector, comprising:

a first jaw comprising a plurality of staple forming pockets, wherein the plurality of staple forming pockets comprises a first pair of pockets; and

a cartridge body, wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into said cartridge body, and wherein said plurality of staple cavities comprises a first cavity;

a first staple removably positioned in the first cavity, the first staple positioned and arranged such that the first staple provides laterally overlapping staple lines with other staples, wherein the first staple comprises:

a base comprising a first end and a second end;

a first leg extending from the first end; and

a second leg extending from the second end; and

a first driver, wherein the first staple is positioned intermediate the first driver and the first pair of pockets, wherein the first driver is configured to move the first staple into forming engagement with the first pair of pockets when the first and second jaws are in the closed configuration to deform the first staple from an unformed configuration to a formed configuration, wherein the first staple has a first height at the first end and a second height at the second end when in the formed configuration, and wherein the first height is different than the second height.

26. The end effector of claim 25, wherein said first driver comprises a stepped push surface.

27. The end effector of claim 26, wherein said stepped push surface comprises:

a first elevation adjacent the first end of the base;

a second elevation adjacent the second end of the base; and

a step intermediate the first elevation and the second elevation.

28. The end effector of claim 25, wherein the first pair of pockets includes a proximal pocket having a first depth and a distal pocket having a second depth, and wherein the first depth is different than the second depth.

29. The end effector of claim 25, wherein the cartridge body further comprises a deck, wherein a longitudinal knife slot extends through at least a portion of the deck, wherein the first cavity comprises a first opening in the deck, wherein the first opening extends along an axis, and wherein the axis traverses the longitudinal knife slot.

30. The end effector of claim 25, wherein said plurality of staple forming pockets further comprises a second pair of pockets, wherein said plurality of staple cavities further comprises a second cavity, and wherein said staple cartridge further comprises:

A second spike removably positioned in the second cavity, wherein the second spike comprises:

a second base comprising a third end and a fourth end;

a third leg extending from the third end; and

a fourth leg extending from the fourth end; and

a second driver, wherein the second staple is positioned intermediate the second driver and the second pair of pockets, wherein the second driver is configured to move the second staple into engagement with the second pair of pockets when the first and second jaws are in the closed configuration to deform the second staple from an unformed configuration to a formed configuration, wherein the second staple has a third height at the third end and a fourth height at the fourth end when in the formed configuration, and wherein the third height is different than the fourth height.

31. The end effector of claim 30, wherein the second leg is further outboard than the first leg, and wherein the fourth leg is further outboard than the third leg.

32. The end effector of claim 31, wherein the second height is greater than the first height, and wherein the fourth height is greater than the third height.

33. The end effector of claim 32, wherein the second leg is further outboard than the third leg.

34. The end effector of claim 30, wherein the second height is greater than the third height.

35. A staple cartridge, comprising:

a cartridge body comprising a deck, wherein a plurality of staple cavities are defined into the cartridge body, wherein each of the staple cavities comprises an opening in the deck;

a plurality of staples removably positioned in the staple cavities, the plurality of staples positioned and arranged such that the plurality of staples provide laterally overlapping staple lines, wherein each of the staples comprises:

a base comprising a first end and a second end;

a first leg extending from the first end; and

a second leg extending from the second end; and

a plurality of drivers, wherein at least one of the drivers includes a non-uniform forming device to purposefully form the first leg and the second leg of one of the staples to different formed heights relative to the base.