JP7059278B2 - Surgical staple fasteners with smart staple cartridges - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various arrangements, surgical staples and cutting instruments designed to staple and cut tissue, and staple cartridges for use with them.

The various features of the embodiments described herein, along with their advantages, can be understood by the following description in conjunction with the following accompanying drawings.
FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a surgical system comprising a handle assembly and a plurality of interchangeable surgical tool assemblies that can be used with it. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies of FIG. 1 operably coupled to the handle assembly of FIG. It is an exploded view of a part of the surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of another one of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies of FIG. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 4 is another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 4 and 5. 4 is an exploded view of a part of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 4 to 6. FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the elastic spine assembly of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 7. 4 is another exploded view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 4-7. 4 is another cross-sectional perspective view of the surgical end effector portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIGS. 4-8. FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the surgical end effector portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly shown in FIG. 10 is a perspective view, a side elevation view, and a front view of an embodiment of a launching member that may be used in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an anvil that may be used in the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the anvil of FIG. 12 is a bottom view of the anvil of FIGS. 12 and 13. Partial cross-sectional aspect of the surgical end effector and shaft portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 4 with unused or unlaunched surgical staple cartridges properly seated in the elongated channel of the surgical end effector. It is a front view. Another cross-sectional side elevation view of the surgical end effector and shaft portion of FIG. 15 after the surgical staple cartridge has been at least partially fired and the firing member retracted to the starting position. Another cross-sectional side elevation view of the surgical end effector and shaft portion of FIG. 16 after the launching member has completely retracted to the starting position. FIG. 15 is a top sectional view of the surgical end effector and shaft portion shown in FIG. 15, with an unused or unfired surgical staple cartridge properly seated in an elongated channel of the surgical end effector. FIG. 18 is another top sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIG. 18 with a surgical staple cartridge mounted therein, showing a launching member that is at least partially fired and held in a locked position. FIG. 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the anvil and elongated channels of the interchangeable tool assembly of FIG. 20 is an exploded side elevation view of a portion of the anvil and elongated channels of FIG. It is a rear perspective view of the anvil mounting part of the anvil embodiment. It is a rear perspective view of the anvil mounting portion of another anvil embodiment. It is a rear perspective view of the anvil mounting portion of another anvil embodiment. It is a perspective view of the anvil embodiment. It is an exploded perspective view of the anvil of FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional end view of the anvil of FIG. 25. It is a perspective view of another anvil embodiment. FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of the anvil embodiment of FIG. 28. FIG. 28 is a plan view of the distal end portion of the anvil body portion of the anvil of FIG. 28. It is a top view of the distal end portion of the anvil body portion of another anvil embodiment. It is sectional drawing end face perspective view of the anvil of FIG. It is sectional drawing end face perspective view of another anvil embodiment. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a closing member comprising a distal closing tube portion. FIG. 34 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of the embodiment of the closing member of FIG. 34. FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly showing the position of an anvil mounting portion of an anvil in a fully closed position and its launching member in a starting position. FIG. 36 is another partial cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 36 at the beginning of the opening process. FIG. 37 is another partial cross-sectional view of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 37 with an anvil in a fully open position. FIG. 36 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. FIG. 37 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is a side elevation view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 38. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevation view of an embodiment of a closing member. FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional end view of the closing member of FIG. 42. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional end view of another embodiment of the closing member. It is sectional drawing of the embodiment of the closing member. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional end view of another embodiment of the closing member. FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a surgical end effector of an interchangeable tool assembly exemplified in FIG. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the surgical end effector of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. FIG. 48 is another cross-sectional view of the surgical end effector of FIG. It is a partial perspective view of a part of the lower surface of the anvil embodiment. FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 5, with an anvil of its surgical end effector in a fully open position. Another partial cross-sectional view of a portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 51, with an anvil of its surgical end effector in a first closed position, in a completely closed position. Part of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 51 at the beginning of the firing process, where the anvil is in the first closed position and the launching member of its surgical end effector has moved distally from the starting position. Another partial cross-sectional view of. Another part of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly of FIG. 51, in which the anvil is in the second closed position and the launcher has advanced distally to the surgical staple cartridge of its surgical end effector. It is a typical cross-sectional view. A graph comparison of firing energy vs. time for different interchangeable surgical tool assemblies. A graphical representation of the force for improved firing and the firing distance compared to the firing load vs. the firing distance traveled by the firing member for four different interchangeable surgical tool assemblies. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an end effector of a surgical staple fastening device, including a staple cartridge according to at least one embodiment. It is an exploded view of the end effector of FIG. 57. It is a perspective view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 57. 57 is a partial perspective view of the channel of the end effector of FIG. 57 configured to receive the staple cartridge of FIG. 57. It is a partial perspective view of the channel of FIG. 60. It is a circuit diagram of the cartridge circuit of the staple cartridge of FIG. 59. It is a circuit diagram of the carrier circuit of the end effector of FIG. 57. FIG. 57 is a bottom partial view of the end effector of FIG. 57 illustrating an intact trace element and thread in a starting position, according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 57 is a bottom partial view of the end effector of FIG. 57 illustrating a broken trace element and thread in a partially advanced position, according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical circuit according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical circuit according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical circuit according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical circuit according to at least one embodiment. It is a circuit diagram of the safety mechanism of the end effector of FIG. 57 according to at least one embodiment. It is a switch of the circuit diagram of FIG. 63 in an open configuration according to at least one embodiment. Illustrate the switch of FIG. 64 in a closed configuration. The safety mechanism for the end effector of FIG. 57 according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a logical diagram of a method for controlling the firing of surgical staples and cutting instruments according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a partial perspective view of a staple cartridge including a conductive gate according to at least one embodiment. It is a partial exploded view of the staple cartridge of FIG. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 67 showing a conductive gate in a completely closed configuration. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 67 showing a conductive gate in an open configuration. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of FIG. 67 showing a conductive gate transitioning from an open configuration to a partially closed configuration. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical circuit configured to activate / disable a surgical staple fastening and cutting instrument launch system according to at least one embodiment. An example is a controller for surgical staples and cutting instruments according to at least one embodiment. Illustrative a combination logic circuit of surgical staples and cutting instruments according to at least one embodiment. Illustrating sequence logic circuits for surgical staples and cutting instruments according to at least one embodiment. An electromagnetic lockout mechanism for surgical staple fastening and cutting instruments, according to at least one embodiment. The electromagnetic lockout mechanism of FIG. 75 in the lock configuration is illustrated. The electromagnetic lockout mechanism of FIG. 75 in the unlock configuration is illustrated. It is a circuit diagram of an electric circuit according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic of an electrical circuit of a stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to at least one embodiment. An electrical circuit configured to detect the position and progress of a staple launcher, exemplifying a staple launcher in a fully fired position. The staple launching member of FIG. 79A in the completely retracted position is illustrated. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument comprising a power supply assembly, a handle assembly, and a replaceable shaft assembly. FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a surgical instrument of FIG. 80 having a replaceable shaft assembly separated from a handle assembly. The circuit diagram of the surgical instrument of FIG. 80 is illustrated. The circuit diagram of the surgical instrument of FIG. 80 is illustrated. FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of staple fastening and cutting instruments for electrosurgical use according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram of staple fastening and cutting instruments for electrosurgical use according to at least one embodiment. Illustrates the minimum and maximum thresholds of the current drawn by the motor of an electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument according to at least one embodiment. It is a circuit diagram illustrating the stroke start switch circuit and the stroke end switch circuit according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a logical diagram illustrating a fault response system according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a logical diagram illustrating a fault response system according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a logical diagram illustrating a fault response system according to at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a logical diagram illustrating a fault response system according to at least one embodiment. Over several drawings, the corresponding reference numerals indicate the corresponding parts. The illustrations described herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention in one form, such illustrations being construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any way. Should not be.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS", Agent Reference No. END7981USNP / 160156,
-US Pat.
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-US Pat.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Pat.
- U.S. Patent Application No. _______ No., entitled "SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLIES WITH CLUTCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SHIFTING BETWEEN CLOSURE SYSTEMS WITH CLOSURE STROKE REDUCTION FEATURES AND ARTICULATION AND FIRING SYSTEMS", Attorney Docket No. END7987USNP / 160162,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", Agent Reference No. END7988USNP / 160163,
-US Pat.
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", Agent Reference No. END7791USNP / 160166,
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "METHODS OF STAPLING TISSUE", Agent Reference No. END9793USNP / 160168,
-US Pat.
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS AND STAPLE-FORMING ANVILS", Agent Reference No. END7996USNP / 160171,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING FEATURES", Agent Reference No. END7997USNP / 160172,
-US patent application No. ________, title of invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTION UNILESS SYSTEM ACTION UNLESS AN UNISPENT The title of the invention "STAPLECARTRIDGES AND ARRANGEMENTS OF STAPLES AND STAPLE CAVITIES THEREIN", agent reference number END7999USNP / 160174.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Pat.
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CUTTING MEMBER", Agent Reference No. END8018USNP / 160180,
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT", Agent Reference No. END8020USNP / 160182,
-US Pat.
-US patent application No. ________, title of invention "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FUSE", agent reference number END8022USNP / 160184, and-US patent application No. ________, title of invention "FIRING ASSEMBLY COMPRISTING" FUSE ”, agent reference number END8023USNP / 160185.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS", Agent Reference No. END8038USNP / 160186,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "ANVIL ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS", Agent Reference No. END8039USNP / 160187,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "METHOD OF DEFORMING STAPLES FROM TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH THE SAME SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUME No.
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Title "CLOSER MEMBERS WITH CAM SURFACE ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SEPARATE AND DISTINCT CLOSURE AND FIRING No. 1
-US Patent Application No. _____, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLERS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ACTUATABLE CLOSEING AND FIRING SYSTEMS", agent reference number END8044USNP / 160192,
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "STAPLE FORMING POCKET ARRANGEMENTS COMPRISING PRIMARY SIDEWALLS AND POCKET SIDEWALLS", Agent Reference Number END8048USNP / 160196
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "FIRING MEMBER PIN ANGLE", Agent Reference No. END8051USNP / 160199,
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH PRIMARY AND SAFETY PROCESSORS", Agent Reference No. END8054USNP / 160202,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH JAWS THAT ARE PIVOTABLE ABOUT A FIXED AXIS AND INCLUDE SEPARTE AND DISTICT CLOSE
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "ANVIL HAVING A KNIFE SLOT WIDTH", Agent Reference No. END8057USNP / 160205,
-US Patent Application No. ________, title of invention "CLOSE MEMBER ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", agent reference number END8058USNP / 160206, and-US patent application No. ______ Person reference number END8059USNP / 160207.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
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-US patent application No. ________, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS HAVING END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE OPENING FEATURES", agent reference number END8004USNP / _NPORT DEPOSABLE LOADING UNITS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS ", agent reference number END8005USNP / 160213.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A MANUALLY-OPERABLE RETRATION SYSTEM FOR USE WITH A MOTORIZED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT No.
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-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SHAFT ASMEMBLY COMPRISING A CLUTCH CONFIGURED TO ADAPPT THE OUTPUT OF A ROTARY FIRING MEMBER TO TWO DIFFERENT
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL SYSTEM COMPRISING A FIRING MEMBER ROTATABLE INTO AN ARTICULATION STATE TO ARTICULATE AN END EFFECTOR OFT
-US Patent Application No. ________, title of invention "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKOUT", agent reference number END8011USNP / 160219, and-US Patent Application No. ________, title of invention "SHAFT ASSEMBLY COMPRITION , Agent reference number END8012USNP / 160220.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed together with it on the same date, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", Agent Reference No. END8024USNP / 160221,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", Agent Reference No. END8025USNP / 160222,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", Agent Reference No. END8026USNP / 160223,
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLE CARTRIDGE WITH MOVABLE CAMMING MEMBER CONFIGURED TO DISENGAGE FIRING MEMBER LOCKOUT FEATURES", No. 241
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS", Agent Reference No. END8028USNP / 160225,
- U.S. Patent Application No. _______ No., entitled "JAW ACTUATED LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING ADVANCEMENT OF A FIRING MEMBER IN A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR UNLESS AN UNFIRED CARTRIDGE IS INSTALLED IN THE END EFFECTOR" of the invention, Attorney Docket No. END8029USNP / 160226,
-US Patent Application No. _____, title of invention "AXIALLY MOVABLE Closure SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR APPLYING CLOUSE MOTIONS TO JAWS OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS"
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "PROTEXTIVE COVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR A JOINT INTERFACE BETWEEN A MOVABLE JAW AND ACTUATOR SHAFT OF A SURGICAL
-US Patent Application No. ________, Title of Invention "SURGICAL END EFFECTOR WITH TWO SEPARATE COOPERATING OPENING FEATURES FOR OPENING AND CLOSEING END EFFECTOR No. 2
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH INDEPENDENT PIVOTABLE LINKAGE DISTAL OF AN ARTICULATION LOCK", Agent Reference No. END80
-US Patent Application No. ________, Invention Name "ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR IN AN ARTICULATED POSITION IN RESPONSE TO ACTION
-US patent application No. ________, title of invention "LATERRALLY ACTUATABLE ARTICULATION LOCK ARRANGEMENTS FOR LOCKING AN END EFFECTOR OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT , The name of the invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATION STROKE AMPLIFICATION FEATURES", agent reference number END8037USNP / 160234.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 191,775, Invention Title "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 191,807, Invention Title "STAPLING SYSTEM FOR USE WITH WIRE STAPLES AND STAMPED STAPLES",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 191,834, title of invention "STAMPED STAPLES AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES USING THE SAME",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 191,788, invention name "STAPLE CARTRIGGE COMPRISING OVERDRIVEN STAPLES", and-US Patent Application No. 15 / 191,818, invention name "STAPLE CARTRIGGE COMPRISING OFFSET LONGITUDINAL".

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on June 24, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,218, Title of Invention "SURGICAL FASTENEER",
-US Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,227, Title of Invention "SURGICAL FASTENEER",
-US Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,259, invention name "SURGICAL FASTENEER CARTRIDGE",-US Design Patent Application No. 29 / 569,264, invention name "SURGICAL FASTENEER CARTRIDGE".

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed as of April 1, 2016, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,325, title of invention "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,321, Title of Invention "MODULAR SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,326, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A DISPLAY INCLUDING A RE-ORIENTABLE DISPLAY FIELD",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,263, title of invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE ASSEMBLY WITH RECONFIGURABLE GRIP PORTION",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,262, title of invention "ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MANUALLY ACTUATABLE BAILOUT SYSTEM",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,277, title of invention "SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING END EFFECTOR WITH ANVIL CONCENTRIC DRIVE MEMBER",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,296, title of invention "INTERCHANGE SURGICAL TOOL ASSEMBLY WITH A SURGICAL END EFFECTOR THAT IS SELECTIVELY ROTATABLE ABOUT ASH"
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,258, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SHIFTABLE TRANSMISSION",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,278, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM CONFIGURED TO PROVIDE SELECTIVE CUTTING OF TISSUE",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,284, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A CONTOURABLE SHAFT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,295, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A TISSUE COMPRESSION LOCKOUT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,300, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN UNCLAMPING LOCKOUT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,196, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW CLOSE LOCKOUT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,203, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A JAW ATTACHMENT LOCKOUT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,210, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,324, Title of Invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SHIFTING MEMHANISM",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,335, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT COMPRISING MULTIPLE LOCKOUTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,339, Invention Title "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT",
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,304, Title of Invention "SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING A GROOVED FORMING POCKET",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,331, Title of Invention "ANVIL MODEFIRATION MEMBERS FOR SURGICAL STAPLERS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,336, Invention Title "STAPLE CARTRIDGES WITH ATRAUMATIC FEATURES",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,312, Invention Title "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INCISABLE TISSUE SUPPORT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,309, invention name "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM COMPRISING ROTARY FIRING SYSTEM", and-US Patent Application No. 15 / 089,349, invention name "CIRCULAR STAPLING SYSTEM".

The applicant of this application also owns the U.S. patent applications specified below, filed as of December 31, 2015, each of which is in its entirety by reference herein. Be incorporated.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 984,488, Invention Title "MECHANIMSS FOR COMPENSATING FOR BATTERY PACK FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 984,525, title of invention "MECHANIMSS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", and-US Patent Application No. 14 / 984,552, title of invention "SURGICAL" AND MOTOR CONTROL CIRCUITS ".

The applicant of this application also owns the U.S. patent applications specified below, filed February 9, 2016, each of which is in its entirety by reference herein. Be incorporated.
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,220, Title of Invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING AND AXIALLY TRANSLATABLE END EFFECTOR",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,228, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE LINK ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION MEMHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,206, title of invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH AN END EFFECTOR THAT IS HIGHLY ARTICULATABLE RELATIVE TO AN ELONGATE SHAFT ASSEMBLY",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,215, Title of Invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH NON-SYMMETRICAL ARTICULATION ARRANGEMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,227, title of invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH SINGLE ARTICULATION LINK ARRANGEMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,235, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH TENSIONING ARRANGEMENTS FOR CABLE DRIVEEN ARTICULATION SYSTEMS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,230, title of invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH OFF-AXIS FIRING BEAM ARRANGEMENTS", and-US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,245, title of invention "SURGICAL" REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS ".

The applicant of this application also owns the U.S. patent applications specified below, filed dated February 12, 2016, each of which is in its entirety by reference herein. Be incorporated.
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 043,254, title of invention "MECHANIMSS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 043,259, title of invention "MECHANIMSS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 15 / 043,275, title of invention "MECHANIMSS FOR COMPENSATING FOR DRIVETRAIN FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", and-US Patent Application No. 15 / 043,289, title of invention "MECHANMISS FOR FAIRURE IN POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS ".

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on June 18, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,925, Invention title "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH POSITIVE JAW OPENING ARRANGEMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,941, Title of Invention "SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH DUAL CAM ACTUATED JAW CLOSEING FEATURES",
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,914, Invention Title "MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS",
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,900, title of invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH COMPOSITE FIRING BEAM STRUCTURES WITH CENTER FIRING SUPPORT MEMBERTOR PORT"
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,885, title of invention "DUAL ARTICULATION DRIVE SYSTEM ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", and-US Patent Application No. 14 / 742,876, title of invention "PURST" FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS ".

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on March 6, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,746, Invention Title "POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256184,
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-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,935, Invention Title "OVERLAID MULTI SENSOR RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) ELECTRODE SYSTEM TO MEASURE TISSUE COMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256071
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,831, Title of Invention "MONITORING SPEED CONTROLL AND PRECISION INCREMENTING OF MOTOR FOR FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256153,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,859, Invention Title "TIME DEPENDENT EVALUATION OF SENSOR DATA TO DETERMINE STABILITY, CREEP, AND VISCOELASTIC ELEMENTS OF MEASURES", now published in US
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,817, Invention Title "INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK SYSTEM FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0256186,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 640,844, title of invention "CONTROL TECHNIQUES AND SUB-PROCESSOR COUNTAINED WITHIN MODULAR SHAFT WITH SELECT CONTROLL PROCESSING PRO.
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The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on February 27, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 633,576, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM COMPRISING AN INSTECTION STATION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249919,
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-US Patent Application No. 14 / 633,548, Invention Title "POWER ADAPTER FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249909,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 633,526, Invention Title "ADAPTABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249945,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 633,541, Invention Title "MODULAR STAPLING ASSEMBLY", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249927, and-US Patent Application No. 14 / 633,562, Invention Title " SURGICAL APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO TRACK AN END-OF-LIFE PARAMETER ”, currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0249917.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed on 18 December 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 574,478, title of invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR AND MENS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE
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-US Pat. , The title of the invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASMEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM", currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0174971.

The applicant of this application owns the following US patent applications filed as of March 1, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
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-US Patent Application No. 13 / 782,338, Invention Title "THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0249557,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 782,499, Invention Title "ELECTROMECHANICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT", now US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 782,460, Invention Title "MULTRIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROLL FOR MODEDULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246478,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 782,358, Invention Title "JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Pat. No. 9,326,767,
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-US Pat. No., the title of the invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP", currently US Pat. No. 9,307,986.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed dated 14 March 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,097, Invention Title "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263542,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,193, Invention Title "CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", now US Pat. No. 9,332,987,
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-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,210, Invention Title "SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSTIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263538,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,148, Invention Title "MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263554,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,066, Invention Title "DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODEDULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263565,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,117, Invention Title "ARTICULATION CONTREM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Pat. No. 9,351,726,
-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,130, Invention Title "DRIVE TRAIN CONTROLL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODELAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Pat. No. 9,351,727, and-US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,159. , The title of the invention "METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0277017.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed on March 7, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 200,111, Invention Title "CONTROLL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263539.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed dated March 26, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,106, Invention Title "POWER MANAGEMENT CONTOROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272582,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,099, Invention Title "STERILIZETION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272581,
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-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,116, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPPATION", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272571,
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-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,126, Invention Title "INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272572,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,133, Invention Title "MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272557,
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-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,111, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/02272583, and-US Patent Application No. 14 / 226,125, title of invention. "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT", currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0280384.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed on September 5, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 479,103, Invention Title "CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066912,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 479,119, Invention Title "ADJUNCT WITH INTERGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066914,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 478,908, Invention Title "MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION", now US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066910,
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-US Pat. The title of the invention, "LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION," is currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0066913.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed on 9 April 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Pat.
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,581, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSEING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT", currently US Patent Application No. 3059/09
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,595, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", currently published in US Patent No. 14/248, 595
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,588, Invention Title "POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309666,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,591, Invention Title "TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/03059191,
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,584, title of invention "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVERN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHOFTS WITH FORM
-US Patent Application No. 14 / 248,587, Invention Title "POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER", Currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309665,
-US Pat. , The title of the invention "MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS", currently US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305992.

The applicant of this application also owns the following US patent applications filed on 16 April 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
-US Patent Application No. 61 / 812,365, Invention Title "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR",
-US Patent Application No. 61 / 812,376, Invention Title "LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER",
-US Patent Application No. 61 / 812,382, Title of Invention "LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP",
-US Patent Provisional Application No. 61 / 812,385, title of invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTOR", and-US Patent Application No. 61 / 812,372, title of invention "SURGICAL". MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR ".

Numerous specific details are described to provide a complete understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of embodiments, as described in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings. Well-known behaviors, components, and elements are not described in detail to avoid obscuring the embodiments described herein. The reader is that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus the particular structural and functional details disclosed herein can be exemplary and exemplary. Will understand. Modifications and changes can be made to it without departing from the scope of the claims.

"Comprise" (any form of comprise, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include" ) ”(Any form of include, such as“ includes ”and“ inclusion ”), and the term“ contain ”(any form of content, such as“ context ”and“ connecting ”) are open-ended. It is a concatenated verb. As a result, surgical systems, appliances, or instruments that "equip", "have", "contain", or "contain" one or more elements have one or more of them. Have, but are not limited to having only one or more of them. Similarly, an element of a system, device, or device that "includes", "has", "contains", or "contains" one or more features has one or more features thereof. Have, but are not limited to having only one or more of them.

The terms "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with respect to a clinician operating the handle portion of a surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers to the part closest to the clinician, and the term "distal" means the part located away from the clinician. It will be further understood that spatial terms such as "vertical", "horizontal", "top", and "bottom" may be used with respect to the drawings herein for convenience and clarity. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limited and / or absolute.

Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgery. However, it will be readily appreciated by the reader that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in many surgical procedures and applications, including those associated with, for example, open surgery. By reading "forms for carrying out the invention" herein, the reader can read that the various instruments disclosed herein have been formed into a tissue, for example, through a natural opening. It will be further understood that it can be inserted into the body by any method, such as through an incision or puncture hole. The working or end effector portion of these instruments is an access device with a passageway that can be inserted directly into the patient's body or that can advance the end effector and elongated shaft of the surgical instrument. Can be inserted through.

Surgical staple system can include a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw comprises a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw, but the staple cartridge is not removable from the first jaw or at least from the first jaw. Other embodiments are conceived that are not easily replaceable. The second jaw comprises an anvil configured to deform the staple ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable with respect to the first jaw around the closed axis, while the first jaw is pivotable with respect to the second jaw, etc. The embodiment of is assumed. Surgical staple fastening systems further include articulated joints configured to allow the end effector to rotate or articulate with respect to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable around the range of motion that extends through the joint. Other embodiments that do not include joints are conceived.

The staple cartridge includes a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a deck extending between the proximal and distal ends. During use, the staple cartridge is positioned on the first side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on the second side of the tissue. The anvil moves towards the staple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the deck. Subsequently, the staples that are detachably stored in the cartridge body can be arranged in the tissue. The cartridge body includes a staple cavity defined within it, and the staples are removably stored within the staple cavity. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. The three rows of staple cavities are located on the first side of the longitudinal slot and the three rows of staple cavities are located on the second side of the longitudinal slot. Staple cavities and other arrangements of staples may be possible.

The staples are supported by a staple driver inside the cartridge body. The driver can move between a first position or unlaunched position and a second position or firing position where the staples are ejected from the staple cavity. The driver is an elastic member configured to be held in the cartridge body by a retainer extending around the bottom of the cartridge body, and to hold the cartridge body to hold the retainer against the cartridge body. include. The driver can be moved by a thread between their unfired position and their fired position. The thread is mobile between the proximal position adjacent to the proximal end and the distal position adjacent to the distal end. The thread has multiple ramps that slide under the driver and are configured to lift the driver, on which staples are supported and towards the anvil.

In addition to the above, the thread is moved distally by the launching member. The launching member is configured to contact the thread and push the thread towards the distal end. Longitudinal slots defined within the cartridge body are configured to receive the launching member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the launching member. The launching member further comprises a first cam that engages the first jaw and a second cam that engages the second jaw. When advancing the launching member distally, the first and second cams can control the distance between the deck of the staple cartridge and the anvil, or the tissue gap. The launcher also comprises a knife configured to incise the tissue captured between the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable that the knife be positioned at least partially proximal to the slope so that the staples are ejected forward of the knife.

FIG. 1 shows a motor-driven surgical system 10 that can be used to perform a variety of different surgical procedures. As can be seen in this figure, an example of the surgical system 10 is four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 100, 200, 300, each adapted for interchangeable use with the handle assembly 500. , And 1000 are included. Each interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100, 200, 300, and 1000 may be designed for use in connection with the performance of one or more specific surgical procedures. In another surgical system embodiment, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly can be effectively used in conjunction with a robot-controlled or automated surgical system tool-driven assembly. For example, the surgical tool assembly disclosed herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, US Pat. No. 9,072,535, title of the invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATTBLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT". It can be used with various robotic systems, instruments, components, and methods, such as, but not limited to, those disclosed in ARRANGEMENTS.

FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of an interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 operably coupled to a handle assembly 500. FIG. 3 shows the attachment of the replaceable surgical tool assembly 100 to the handle assembly 500. The mounting arrangements and processes shown in FIG. 3 are also related to the mounting of any of the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 1000 on the tool-driven portion or tool-driven housing of the robot system. , May be used. The handle assembly 500 may include a handle housing 502 that includes a pistol grip portion 504 that can be gripped and manipulated by the clinician. As briefly discussed below, the handle assembly 500 provides various control movements to the corresponding parts of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100, 200, 300, and / or 1000 operably attached therein. Operable support for multiple drive systems configured to generate and apply.

Here, with reference to FIG. 3, the handle assembly 500 may further include a frame 506 that operably supports a plurality of drive systems. For example, the frame 506 can operably support a "first" or closed drive system, commonly referred to as 510, which is operably attached or coupled to the handle assembly 500. It may be used to apply closing and opening movements to the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 1000 that have been made. In at least one embodiment, the closure drive system 510 may include an actuator in the form of a closure trigger 512 pivotally supported by a frame 506. Such an arrangement allows the clinician to operate the closure trigger 512, whereby the closure trigger 512 is in the starting position when the clinician grips the pistol grip portion 504 of the handle assembly 500. Alternatively, it can be easily pivoted from the "non-actuated" position to the "operated" position, more specifically to the fully compressed or fully actuated position. In various embodiments, the closed drive system 510 further comprises a closed connected assembly 514 that is pivotally coupled to or otherwise operably joined to the closed trigger 512. As described in more detail below, in an exemplary embodiment, the closed connection assembly 514 includes a lateral mounting pin 516 that facilitates attachment to the corresponding drive system on the surgical tool assembly. During use, to activate the closure drive system, the clinician presses the closure trigger 512 towards the pistol grip portion 504. More in detail in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 226,142, the title of the invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A SENSOR SYSTEM", which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575. As described, when the clinician fully presses the closure trigger 512 to achieve a complete closure stroke, the closure drive system is in a fully pressed or fully activated position of the closure trigger 512. It is configured to lock to. If the clinician wishes to unlock the closure trigger 512 and urge it to the non-actuated position, the clinician simply activates the closure release button assembly 518, thereby deactivating the closure trigger. It is possible to return to the position. The close release button 518 may also be configured to interact with various sensors communicating with the microcontroller 520 in the handle assembly 500 to track the position of the close trigger 512. Further details regarding the configuration and operation of the closure / release button assembly 518 can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575.

In at least one embodiment, the handle assembly 500 and the frame 506 are configured to apply a firing motion to the corresponding portion of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly attached thereto, as used herein. Another drive system, referred to as the launch drive system 530, may be operably supported. As described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the launch drive system 530 may use an electric motor (not shown in FIGS. 1-3) and is a pistol for the handle assembly 500. It is located at the grip portion 504. In various embodiments, the motor may be, for example, a brushed DC drive motor having a maximum rotation speed of about 25,000 RPM. In other arrangements, the motor may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor may be powered by a power source 522, which may include a removable power pack in one form. The power pack may support a plurality of lithium ions (“Li”) or other suitable batteries within it. A large number of batteries that can be connected in series may be used as the power source 522 for the surgical system 10. The power supply 522 may be replaceable and / or rechargeable.

The electric motor is configured to drive the drive member 540, which is movable in the longitudinal direction, in the axial direction in the distal direction and the proximal direction depending on the polarity of the motor. For example, when the motor is driven in one direction of rotation, the drive member 540 that is movable in the longitudinal direction can be driven axially in the distal direction "DD". When the motor is driven in the opposite direction of rotation, the drive member 540 may be driven axially in the proximal direction "PD". The handle assembly 500 may include a switch 513 that may be configured to reverse the polarity applied to the motor by means of a power source 522 or to control the motor. The handle assembly 500 can further include a sensor (not shown) configured to detect the position of the drive member 540 and / or the direction in which the drive member 540 is moving. The operation of the motor can be controlled by a firing trigger 532 (FIG. 1) pivotally supported on the handle assembly 500. The firing trigger 532 may be pivoted between the non-actuated position and the actuated position. The firing trigger 532 may be urged to a non-actuated position by a spring or other urging arrangement so that when the clinician releases the firing trigger 532, it is by the spring or urging arrangement. It may be pivoted to a non-working position or otherwise returned. In at least one form, the firing trigger 532 can be positioned "outside" the closing trigger 512, as described above. As described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the handle assembly 500 may be equipped with a launch trigger safety button (not shown) to prevent accidental activation of the launch trigger 532. good. When the closure trigger 512 is in the non-actuated position, the safety button is housed within the handle assembly 500, the clinician cannot easily access the safety button, and safety prevents activation of the firing trigger 532. The firing trigger 532 cannot be triggered between the position and the firing position where the firing trigger 532 can be fired. As the clinician presses the closure trigger 512, the safety button and firing trigger 532 are pivoted downwards, which is then enabled by the clinician.

In at least one embodiment, the drive member 540, which is movable in the longitudinal direction, has teeth formed on it for meshing engagement with a corresponding drive gear arrangement (not shown) that interacts with the motor (FIG. (Not shown) may have a rack. Further details regarding these mechanisms can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575. There is also a manually actuated "emergency detachment" assembly configured to allow the clinician to manually retract the longitudinally movable drive member 540 in the event of a motor failure. Included in at least one form. The emergency withdrawal assembly may include a lever or an emergency withdrawal handle assembly housed within the handle assembly 500 under the open door 550. The lever is configured to be manually pivoted to ratchet engage with the teeth of the drive member 540. Therefore, the clinician can manually retract the drive member 5400 by ratcheting the drive member 540 in the proximal direction "PD" using the emergency withdrawal handle assembly. U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 249,117, the title of the invention "POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. No. 045 discloses an emergency withdrawal arrangement, as well as other components, arrangements, and systems that may be used with the various surgical tool assemblies disclosed herein.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 includes a surgical end effector 110 comprising a first jaw and a second jaw. In one arrangement, the first jaw comprises an elongated channel 112 configured to operably support the surgical staple cartridge 116 within it. The second jaw comprises an anvil 114 that is pivotally supported with respect to the elongated channel 112. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 also includes a locking joint 120 that can be configured to releasably hold the end effector 110 in a desired position with respect to the shaft axis SA. US Pat. No. 13,803,086, the title of the invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, details relating to the various structures and operations of the end effector 110, the joint joint 120 and the joint motion lock. INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK ”, currently described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. As further seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 can be utilized to close and / or open the proximal housing or nozzle 130, as well as the anvil 114 of the end effector 110. The closed tube assembly 140 can be included. As described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272575, the closed tube assembly 140 is on a spine 145 supporting a range of motion driver arrangement 147 for applying range of motion to the surgical end effector 110. It is supported to be movable. The spine 145 is configured to (1) slidably support the launching member 170 within it and (2) slidably support the closed tube assembly 140 extending around the spine 145. .. Under various circumstances, the spine 145 includes a proximal end rotatably supported by the chassis 150. See FIG. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end of the spine 145 is attached to a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within the chassis 150. Such an arrangement facilitates the rotatable attachment of the spine 145 to the chassis 150, and the spine 145 may be selectively rotated around the shaft axis SA with respect to the chassis 150.

Still referring to FIG. 3, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 includes a closed shuttle 160 that is slidably supported therein so that it can be moved axially with respect to the chassis 150. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the closure shuttle 160 includes a pair of proximally projecting hooks 162 that are attached to the attachment pins 516 attached to the closure connection assembly 514 of the handle assembly 500. It is configured to be installed. The proximal closed tube section 146 of the closed tube 140 is connected to the closed shuttle 160 so as to rotate relative to it. Thus, when the hook 162 is caught on the pin 516, the actuation of the closure trigger 512 results in axial movement of the closure shuttle 160 and ultimately the closure tube assembly 140 on the spine 145. The closing spring (not shown) is pivotally supported on the closing tube 140 and serves to urge the closing tube 140 in the proximal direction "PD", whereby the shaft assembly 100 becomes the handle assembly 500. When operably connected, it can serve to pivot the closure trigger 512 to the non-actuated position. In use, the closed tube assembly 140 translates distally (direction "DD") to close the anvil 114, for example, in response to the activation of the closing trigger 512. The closed tube assembly 140 includes a distal closed tube section 142 pivotally pinned to the distal end of the proximal closed tube section 146. The distal closed tube section 142 is configured to move axially with the proximal closed tube section 146 with respect to the surgical end effector 110. If the distal end of the distal closure segment 142 collides with the proximal surface on the anvil 114 or the ledge 115, the anvil 114 is pivotally closed. Further details regarding the closure of the anvil 114 can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541 described above, and will be described in more detail below. As described in detail in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, the anvil 114 is opened by translating the distal closed tube section 142 in the proximal direction. The distal closed tube delimiter 142 works with the anvil tab 117 formed on the proximal end of the anvil 114 to pivot the anvil 114 back to the open position, extending downwardly (figure). It has a horseshoe-shaped opening 143 that defines (not shown) inside it. In the fully open position, the closed tube assembly 140 is in its nearest or non-actuated position.

Also, as mentioned above, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 further includes a firing bar 170 that is supported to move axially within the shaft spine 145. The launch bar 170 includes an intermediate launch shaft portion configured to be attached to a distal cutting portion or knife bar configured to move axially through a surgical end effector 110. In at least one arrangement, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 includes a clutch assembly (not shown) that may be configured to selectively and releasably connect the joint motion driver to the launch bar 170. Further details regarding the clutch assembly mechanism and operation can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Distal movement of the firing bar 170 away from the articulation driver arrangement 147 when the clutch assembly is in its engaged position, as described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. It can be moved in the positional direction, and correspondingly, the proximal movement of the launch bar 170 can move the joint motion driver arrangement 147 in the proximal direction. When the clutch assembly is in its disengaged position, the movement of the launch bar 170 is not transmitted to the joint motion driver arrangement 147, so that the launch bar 170 is independent of the joint motion driver arrangement 147. You can move. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 can also include a slip ring assembly (not shown), which directs power to and / or draws power from the end effector 110. / Or may be configured to communicate a signal to and / or to communicate a signal from the end effector 110. Further details regarding the slip ring assembly can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,067, the title of the invention "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM", now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. U.S. Pat. No. 9,345,481, the name "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM", is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Further referring to FIG. 3, the chassis 150 is preferably at least one formed on the chassis adapted to be housed in the corresponding dovetail slot 507 formed within the distal end of the frame 506. Includes two tapered mounting portions 152. Each dovetail slot 507 may be tapered or, in other words, somewhat V-shaped so as to seatably receive the mounting portion 152 within it. As further seen in FIG. 3, a shaft mounting lug 172 is formed on the proximal end of the launch shaft 170. When the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 is connected to the handle assembly 500, the shaft mounting lug 172 is a launch shaft mounting cradle 542 formed at the distal end of a longitudinally movable drive member 540. Is accepted by. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 also uses a latch system 180 for releasably latching the shaft assembly 100 to the frame 506 of the handle assembly 500. In at least one embodiment, for example, the latch system 180 includes a locking member or lock yoke 182 movably coupled to the chassis 150. The lock yoke 182 includes two proximally projecting lock lugs 184 configured to disengageably engage the corresponding lock stop or groove 509 on the distal mounting flange of the frame 506. In various forms, the lock yoke 182 is proximally urged by a spring or urging member. The operation of the lock yoke 182 may be performed by a latch button 186 slidably mounted on the latch actuator assembly mounted on the chassis 150. The latch button 186 may be urged proximally to the lock yoke 182. As will be described in more detail below, the lock yoke 182 may be moved to the unlocked position by urging the latch button 186 in the distal direction, whereby the lock yoke 182 is pivoted. To disengage the frame 506 from its retaining engagement with the distal mounting flange. When the lock yoke 182 is "retained engaged" with the distal mounting flange of the frame 506, the lock lug 184 is anchored and seated in the corresponding lock lock or groove 509 at the distal end of the frame 506. Further details regarding the latch system can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541.

Here, the attachment of the replaceable surgical tool assembly 100 to the handle assembly 500 will be described with respect to FIG. To initiate the coupling process, the clinician will use the chassis 150 of the replaceable surgical tool assembly 100 so that the tapered mounting portion 152 formed on the chassis 150 is aligned with the dovetail slot 507 of the frame 506. May be positioned above or adjacent to the distal end of the frame 506. The clinician then moves the surgical tool assembly 100 along the installation axis IA perpendicular to the shaft axis SA to provide the tapered attachment portion 152 with the corresponding dovetail receiving slot at the distal end of the frame 506. It may be seated by being "operably engaged" with the 507. The shaft mounting lug 172 on the launch shaft 170 is also seated on the cradle 542 in the longitudinally movable drive member 540, with some of the pins 516 on the closure link 514 being the corresponding hooks on the closure shuttle 160. Sit at 162. As used in the present invention, the term "movable engagement" in the context of two components constitutes that the two components are fully engaged with each other, thereby applying actuating motion to them. It means that an element can perform the intended action, function, and / or procedure.

Referring now to FIG. 1, the surgical system 10 shown in this figure includes four interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 1000, each of which works with the same handle assembly 500. Can be used to perform different surgical procedures. The configuration of an exemplary form of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 is briefly described above and is described in more detail in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Various details regarding the interchangeable surgical tool assemblies 200 and 300 can be found in various US patent applications filed herein and incorporated herein by reference. Various details regarding the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 are described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, each of the surgical tool assemblies 100, 200, 300, and 1000 comprises a pair of jaws, at least one of which has two jaws with tissue. It is movable between an open position that can be captured or manipulated between the closed positions and a closed position where the tissue is firmly retained between them. The movable jaw or jaw is in the open position when applying the closing and opening movements applied to it from a robot or automated surgical system to which the handle assembly or surgical tool assembly is operably connected. And move between closed positions. It should be noted that each of the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assemblies cuts the tissue and responds to the firing motion applied to it by the handle assembly or robotic system into one of the jaws. Includes a launching member configured to fire staples from a supported cartridge. Each surgical tool assembly may be uniquely designed, for example, to perform a particular procedure for cutting and fastening tissue types and thicknesses within a particular area of the body. The closure, launch, and joint control system in the handle assembly 500 or robotic system is an axial control motion and / or rotation control motion, depending on the type of closure, launch, and joint system configuration used in the surgical tool assembly. May be configured to generate. In one arrangement, once the closure control system in the handle assembly or robotic system is fully operational, one of the closure system control components may include, for example, the closure tube assembly described above and is inactive. It can move axially from position to its full operating position. The axial distance that the closed tube assembly travels between its non-working position and its fully working position can be referred to herein as the "closed stroke length". Similarly, once the launch system in the handle assembly or robotic system is fully operational, one of the launch system control components may include, for example, the longitudinally movable drive member described above and is inactive. It can move axially from a position to its full operating position or firing position. The axial distance that a longitudinally movable drive member travels between its non-actuated position and its full launch position can be referred to herein as the "launch stroke length". For these surgical tool assemblies with articulatory end effector arrangements, the handle assembly or robotic system uses a joint motion control component that moves axially through a "joint drive stroke length". May be good. In many situations, the closed stroke length, the firing stroke length, and the joint driven stroke length are fixed to a particular handle assembly or robot system. Therefore, each of the surgical tool assemblies does not place excessive stress on the surgical tool components, which can result in damage or sudden failure of the surgical tool assembly, and each of their entire stroke lengths. It must be adaptable to the control movements of closure, firing, and / or joint movement components over.

Referring now to FIGS. 4-10, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 comprises a surgical end effector 1100 comprising an elongated channel 1102 configured to operably support the staple cartridge 1110 within it. include. The end effector 1100 may further include anvil 1130 that is pivotally supported for elongated channels 1102. The interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 can be configured to releasably hold the end effector 1100 at the desired joint motion position with respect to the shaft axis SA, the joint joint 1200 and the joint motion lock 1210 (FIG. 5 and FIGS. 8 to 10) may be further included. Details regarding the configuration and operation of the articulation lock 1210 are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, title of the invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK", now. Can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Further details regarding joint motion locks are also incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196 (filed February 9, 2016), title of the invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ARTICULATION". It can also be found in "MEMHANISM WITH SLOTTED SECONDARY CONSTRAINT". As can be seen in FIG. 7, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a proximal housing or nozzle 1300 composed of nozzle portions 1302, 1304, and a nozzle portion assembled by snaps, lugs, screws, etc. Further can include an actuator wheel portion 1306 configured to connect to 1302, 1304. As described in more detail below, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 further comprises a closed tube assembly 1400 that can be utilized to close and / or open the anvil 1130 of the end effector 1100. Can be done. Primarily with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 can include a spine assembly 1500 that may be configured to support the articulation lock 1210. In the illustrated arrangement, the spine assembly 1500 comprises an "elastic" spine or frame member 1510 described in more detail below. The distal end portion 1522 of the elastic spine member 1510 is attached to a distal frame compartment 1560 that operably supports the articulation lock 1210 within it. As can be seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the spine 1500 extends (1) to slidably support the launcher assembly 1600 within it and (2) around the spine 1500. It is configured to slidably support the closed pipe assembly 1400. The spine assembly 1500 can also be configured to slidably support the proximal joint motion driver 1700.

As can be seen in FIG. 10, the distal frame segment 1560 is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel 1102 by the end effector mounting assembly 1230. In one arrangement, for example, the distal end 1562 of the distal frame segment 1560 has a pivot pin 1564 formed on it. The pivot pin 1564 is adapted to be pivotally received within the pivot hole 1234 formed in the pivot base 1232 of the end effector mounting assembly 1230. The end effector mounting assembly 1230 is attached to the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 by a spring pin 1105 or other suitable member. The pivot pin 1564 defines the range of motion BB across the shaft axis SA. See FIG. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotal movement (ie, joint movement) of the end effector 1100 around the joint movement axis BB with respect to the spine assembly 1500.

Still referring to FIG. 10, in the illustrated embodiment, the joint motion driver 1700 has a distal end 1702 configured to operably engage the joint motion lock 1210. The articulation lock 1210 includes an articulation frame 1212 adapted to operably engage drive pins 1238 on the pivot base 1232 of the end effector mounting assembly 1230. The cross link 1237 may be connected to the drive pin 1238 and the joint movement frame 1212 so as to support the joint movement of the end effector 1100. As mentioned above, further details regarding the operation of the joint motion lock 1210 and the joint motion frame 1212 can be found in US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Further details regarding the end effector mounting assembly and the cross-linking are incorporated herein by reference in US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,245, title of the invention "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CLOSE STROKE REDUCTION ARRANGEMENTS". Can be found in (filed February 9, 2016). In various situations, the elastic spine member 1510 includes a proximal end 1514 rotatably supported by chassis 1800. In one arrangement, for example, the proximal end 1514 of the elastic spine member 1510 is formed onto a spine bearing (not shown) configured to be supported within the chassis 1800 for screw mounting. It also has a screw 1516. Such an arrangement facilitates the rotatable attachment of the elastic spine member 1510 to the chassis 1800, whereby the spine assembly 1500 is selectively rotated around the shaft axis SA with respect to the chassis 1800. obtain.

Primarily with reference to FIG. 7, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a closed shuttle 1420 that is slidably supported within the chassis 1800 so that it can be moved axially with respect to the chassis 1800. In one embodiment, the closure shuttle 1420 comprises a pair of proximally projecting hooks 1421 that attach to mounting pins 516 attached to the closure connection assembly 514 of the handle assembly 500, as described above. It is configured as follows. The proximal end 1412 of the closed tube section 1410 is connected to the closed shuttle 1420 so as to rotate relative to it. For example, the U-shaped connector 1424 is inserted into the annular slot 1414 at the proximal end 1412 of the closed tube section 1410 and is retained within the vertical slot 1422 in the closed shuttle 1420. See FIG. 7. Such a configuration allows the proximal closed tube assembly 1400 to rotate relative to the closed shuttle 1420 around the shaft axis SA, while moving axially with it. Helps attach the section 1410 to the closed shuttle 1420. A closing spring (not shown) is pivotally supported on the proximal end 1412 of the proximal closing tube section 1410 and helps to urge the closing tube assembly 1400 in the proximal direction PD, thereby. When the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is operably coupled to the handle assembly 500, it helps to pivot the closure trigger 512 (FIG. 3) on the handle assembly 500 to the non-actuated position.

As mentioned above, the exemplified interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 includes a joint joint 1200. However, other interchangeable surgical tool assemblies do not have to be range of motion. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the upper and lower protrusions 1415, 1416 project distally from the distal end of the proximal closed tube section 1410 to the end effector closure sleeve of the closed tube assembly 1400 or. It is movably connected to the distal closed tube section 1430. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the distal closed tube section 1430 includes upper and lower protrusions 1434, 1436 that project proximally from its proximal end. The upper double pivot link 1220 includes proximal and distal pins that engage the corresponding holes in the upper protrusions 1415, 1434 of the proximal closed tube section 1410 and the distal closed tube section 1430. Similarly, the lower double pivot link 1222 includes proximal and distal pins that engage the corresponding holes in the lower protrusions 1416 and 1436 of the proximal closed tube section 1410 and the distal closed tube section 1430. As described in more detail below, distal and proximal axial translations of the closed tube assembly 1400 can result in the closure and opening of the anvil 1130 to the elongated channel 1102.

As mentioned above, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 further includes a launcher assembly 1600 supported to move axially within the spine assembly 1500. In the illustrated embodiment, the launch member assembly 1600 includes an intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 configured for attachment to a distal cut portion or knife bar 1610. The launch member assembly 1600 may also be referred to herein as a "second shaft" and / or a "second shaft assembly". As can be seen in FIGS. 7-10, the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 may include a longitudinal slot 1604 at its distal end, which is a tab on the proximal end of the knife bar 1610 (FIG. 10). Can be configured to accept (not shown). The longitudinal slot 1604 and the proximal end of the knife bar 1610 can be sized and configured to allow relative movement between them and can include a slip joint 1612. The slip joint 1612 makes it possible to move the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 of the launch member assembly 1600 to articulate the end effector 1100 without moving the knife bar 1610, or at least substantially. can do. Once the end effector 1100 is suitably oriented, the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 is advanced distally to advance the knife bar 1610 until the proximal sidewall of the longitudinal slot 1604 contacts the protrusion on the knife bar 1610. And the staple cartridge 1110 located in the channel 1102 can be fired. As further seen in FIGS. 8 and 9, the elastic spine member 1520 is an elongated opening or window for facilitating assembly and insertion into the elastic spine member 1520 of the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602. It has a portion 1525. Once the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 is inserted therein, the top frame section 1527 may engage the elastic spine member 1520 to enclose the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 and the knife bar 1610 within it. Further statements regarding the operation of the launch member assembly 1600 can be found in US Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, now US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541.

In addition to the above, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 can include a clutch assembly 1620 that can be configured to selectively and releasably connect the joint motion driver 1800 to the launch member assembly 1600. .. In one embodiment, the clutch assembly 1620 comprises a lock collar or sleeve 1622 positioned around the launch member assembly 1600, the lock sleeve 1622 in which the lock sleeve 1622 launches a joint motion driver 1700 into the launch member assembly 1600. Can rotate between the engagement position to be coupled to and the disengagement position where the joint motion driver 1700 is not operably coupled to the launching member assembly 1600. When the lock sleeve 1622 is in its engaging position, the distal movement of the launcher assembly 1600 allows the 1700 to be moved distally, correspondingly proximal to the launcher assembly 1600. The movement allows the joint movement driver 1700 to move in the proximal direction. When the lock sleeve 1622 is in its disengaged position, the movement of the launching member assembly 1600 is not transmitted to the 1700 so that the launching member assembly 1600 moves independently of the joint motion driver 1700. Can be done. In various situations, the joint motion lock 1210 allows the joint motion driver 1700 to be held in place if the 1700 has not been moved proximally or distally by the launcher assembly 1600.

Primarily with reference to FIG. 7, the lock sleeve 1622 is cylindrical, or at least substantially cylindrical, with a longitudinal opening 1624 configured to receive the launcher assembly 1600 defined therein. Can be equipped with the main body of. The lock sleeve 1622 may include inwardly facing lock protrusions 1626, 1628 and outwardly facing lock members 1629 that face each other in the radial direction. Lock protrusions 1626, 1628 may be configured to selectively engage the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 of the launch member assembly 1600. More specifically, when the lock sleeve 1622 is in its engaging position, the lock protrusions 1626, 1628 are located within the drive notch 1605 defined in the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602, thereby providing a distal push force. And / or proximal tensile force may be transmitted from the launcher assembly 1600 to the lock sleeve 1622. When the lock sleeve 1622 is in its engaging position, the second locking member 1629 is received within the drive notch 1704 defined in 1700, thereby exerting a distal push force and / or on the lock sleeve 1622. Alternatively, the proximal tensile force may be transmitted to the joint motion driver 1700. In essence, the launcher assembly 1600, lock sleeve 1622, and articulation driver 1700 can move together when the lock sleeve 1622 is in its engaged position. On the other hand, when the lock sleeve 1622 is in its disengagement position, the lock protrusions 1626, 1628 cannot be located in the drive notch 1605 of the intermediate launch shaft portion 1602 of the launch member assembly 1600, resulting in a distance. Pushing force in the position direction and / or tensile force in the proximal direction cannot be transmitted from the launching member assembly 1600 to the lock sleeve 1622. Correspondingly, the distal pushing force and / or the proximal pulling force may not be transmitted to the range of motion driver 1700. Under such circumstances, the launcher assembly 1600 may be slid proximally and / or distally to the lock sleeve 1622 and the proximal joint motion driver 1700. The clutch assembly 1620 further includes a switch drum 1630 that interacts with the lock sleeve 1622. Further statements regarding the operation of the switch drum and lock sleeve 1622 can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196. Can be issued. The switch drum 1630 may further comprise at least partially circumferential openings 1632, 1634 defined therein, the openings of which are circumferentially extending from the nozzle halves 1302, 1304. It accepts the mounting seat 1305 and allows relative rotation between the switch drum 1630 and the proximal nozzle 1300, but not translation. See FIG. Rotating the nozzle 1300 to a point where the mounting seat reaches the ends of the respective slots 1632, 1634 in the switch drum 1630 may result in the switch drum 1630 rotating around the shaft axis SA. The rotation of the switch drum 1630 may ultimately result in the lock sleeve 1622 rotating between its engaged and disengaged positions. Thus, in essence, the Nozzle 1300, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. Used to operably engage and disengage a joint drive system and a launch drive system in various manners described in more detail in No. and US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196. May be done.

In the illustrated arrangement, the switch drum 1630 includes an L-shaped slot 1636 extending to the distal opening 1637 of the switch drum 1630. The distal opening 1637 receives the lateral pin 1639 of the shifter plate 1638. In one example, the shifter plate 1638 is received in a longitudinal slot (not shown) provided in the lock sleeve 1622 and the lock sleeve 1622 is of the lock sleeve 1622 when the lock sleeve 1622 is engaged with the articulation driver 1700. Facilitates axial movement. Further details regarding the operation of the shifter plate and shift drum arrangement are incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, US Patent Application No. 14 / 868,718, title of the invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH SHAFT RELEASE," It can be found in "POWERED FIRING AND POWERED ARTICULATION" (filed September 28, 2015).

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the interchangeable tool assembly 1000, for example, conducts power to and from the end effector 1100 and / or communicates signals to and from the end effector 1100. , A slip ring assembly 1640 that can be configured to return to the microprocessor in the handle assembly or robotic system controller. Further details regarding the slip ring assembly 1640 and related connectors, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 803,086, now U.S. Patent Application. Publication No. 2014/0263541, and U.S. Patent Application No. 15 / 019,196, and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,067, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, the title of the invention, "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE." THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM ", now can be found in US Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552. As described in more detail in the aforementioned patent application incorporated herein by reference, the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is also configured to detect the position of the switch drum 1630 at least one. It can be equipped with a sensor.

Referring again to FIG. 7, the chassis 1800 is adapted to be received within the corresponding dovetail slot 507 formed within the distal end portion of the frame 506 of the handle assembly 500, as described above. Includes at least one, preferably two tapered attachment portions 1802 formed above. As further seen in FIG. 7, a shaft mounting lug 1605 is formed on the proximal end of the intermediate launch shaft 1602. As described in more detail below, when the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is coupled to the handle assembly 500, the shaft mounting lug 1605 is a launch formed at the distal end of the longitudinal drive member 540. Accepted by the shaft mounting cradle 542. See FIG.

The various interchangeable surgical tool assemblies use a latch system 1810 for detachably connecting the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 to the frame 506 of the handle assembly 500. As can be seen in FIG. 7, for example, in at least one embodiment, the latch system 1810 includes a locking member or lock yoke 1812 that is movably coupled to the chassis 1800. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the lock yoke 1812 has a U-shape with two separated, downwardly extending legs 1814. Each leg 1814 has a pivot lug (not shown) adapted to be received by a corresponding hole 1816 formed in the chassis 1800. Such an arrangement facilitates pivotally mounting the lock yoke 1812 to the chassis 1800. The lock yoke 1812 has two proximally projecting lock lugs 1818 configured to disengageably engage the corresponding lock stop or groove 509 at the distal end of the frame 506 of the handle assembly 500. It may be included. See FIG. In various forms, the lock yoke 1812 is proximally urged by a spring or urging member 1819. Operation of the lock yoke 1812 may be achieved by a latch button 1820 slidably mounted on the latch actuator assembly 1822 mounted on the chassis 1800. The latch button 1820 may be urged proximally to the lock yoke 1812. The lock yoke 1812 may be moved to the unlocked position by urging the latch button 1820 in the distal direction, whereby the lock yoke 1812 is pivoted to the distal end of the frame 506. To be disengaged from the retention engagement. When the lock yoke 1812 is in "retention engagement" with the distal end of the frame 506, the lock lug 1818 is anchored and seated in the corresponding lock stop or groove 509 at the distal end of the frame 506.

In the illustrated arrangement, the lock yoke 1812 comprises at least one, and preferably two lock hooks 1824 adapted to contact the corresponding lock lug portion 1426 formed on the closed shuttle 1420. When the closure shuttle 1420 is in the non-actuated position, the lock yoke 1812 may be pivoted distally to unlock the replaceable surgical tool assembly 1000 from the handle assembly 500. When in that position, the lock hook 1824 does not contact the lock lug portion 1426 on the closed shuttle 1420. However, when the closing shuttle 1420 moves to the operating position, the lock yoke 1812 is prevented from pivoting to the unlocking position. In other words, if the clinician attempts to pivot the lock yoke 1812 to the unlocked position, or, for example, the lock yoke 1812 may otherwise be pivoted distally. In the event of an easy abutment or contact, the lock hook 1824 on the lock yoke 1812 contacts the lock lug 1426 on the closing shuttle 1420, preventing the lock yoke 1812 from moving to the unlocked position.

Still referring to FIG. 10, the knife bar 1610 may comprise a laminated beam structure comprising at least two beam layers. Such beam layers may include, for example, stainless steel bands interconnected by welding or pinning to each other at their proximal ends and / or elsewhere along their length. .. In an alternative embodiment, the distal ends of the band are not coupled together to allow the laminate or band to spread relative to each other when the end effector is articulated. Such an arrangement allows the knife bar 1610 to be flexible enough to accommodate the joint movement of the end effector. Various laminated knife bar arrangements are disclosed in US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,245. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the intermediate support member 1614 provides lateral support to the knife bar 1610 as the intermediate support member 1614 bends for application to the range of motion of the surgical end effector 1100. Used. Further details regarding intermediate support members and alternative knife bar support arrangements are disclosed in US Patent Application No. 15 / 019,245. As can be seen in FIG. 10, the launcher or knife member 1620 is attached to the distal end of the knife bar 1610.

FIG. 11 shows one form of launching member 1660 that may be used with the interchangeable tool assembly 1000. In one exemplary embodiment, the launcher 1660 comprises a proximally extending connector member 1663 configured to be received by a correspondingly shaped connector opening 1614 at the distal end of the knife bar 1610. , The main body portion 1662 is provided. See FIG. The connector 1663 may be anchored in the connector opening 1614 by friction and / or welding, or a suitable adhesive or the like. The body portion 1662 projects through an elongated slot 1104 within the elongated channel 1102 and terminates with a foot member 1664 extending laterally on each side surface of the body portion 1662. As the launch member 1660 is driven distally through the surgical staple cartridge 1110, the foot member 1664 rides in the passage 1105 in the elongated channel 1102 located beneath the surgical staple cartridge 1110. As can be seen in FIG. 11, one form of launching member 1660 may further include a laterally projecting central tab, pin, or retention device mechanism 1680. When the launch member 1660 is driven distally through the surgical staple cartridge 1110, the central retention device mechanism 1680 rides on the inner surface 1106 of the elongated channel 1102. The body portion 1662 of the launching member 1660 further comprises a tissue cutting edge or mechanism 1666 disposed between the distally projecting hook mechanism 1665 and the distally projecting upper nose portion 1670. As further seen in FIG. 11, the launching member 1660 may further include two laterally extending top tabs, pins, or anvil engaging mechanisms 1665. When the launch member 1660 is driven distally, the apex portion of the body 1662 extends through a centrally located anvil slot 1138, and the apex anvil engagement mechanism 1672 is located on each side of the anvil slot 1134. Ride on the corresponding ledge 1136 formed in. See FIGS. 13 and 14.

Returning to FIG. 10, the launch member 1660 is configured to operably join the thread assembly 1120 operably supported within the body 1111 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. The thread assembly 1120 is slidable within the surgical staple cartridge body 1111 from the proximal start position adjacent to the proximal end 1112 of the cartridge body 1111 to the end position adjacent to the distal end 1113 of the cartridge body 1111. Can be displaced to. The cartridge body 1111 operably supports a plurality of staple drivers (not shown) aligned in rows on each side of the centrally located slot 1114. The centrally located slot 1114 allows the launching member 1660 to pass through it and cut the tissue clamped to and from the anvil 1130 staple cartridge 1110. The driver is associated with a corresponding pocket 1116 that is open through the upper deck surface 1115 of the cartridge body. Each of the staple drivers supports one or more surgical staples or fasteners (not shown). Thread assembly 1120 includes a plurality of slanted or wedge-shaped cams 1122, each cam 1122 corresponding to a particular line of fastener or driver located on the side surface of slot 1114. In the illustrated embodiment, one cam 1122 is aligned with one line of "double" driver supporting two staples or fasteners, respectively, and another cam 1122 is the same in slot 1114. A single surgical staple or fastener on the side is aligned with another line of "single" driver that operably supports each on it. Thus, in the illustrated example, when the surgical staple cartridge 1110 is "launched", there may be three staple lines on each outer side of the tissue cutting line. However, other cartridge and driver configurations can be used to fire other staple / fastener arrangements. The thread assembly 1120 has a central body portion 1124 configured to be engaged by a hook portion 1665 of the launch member 1660. Therefore, when the launching member 1660 is launched or driven distally, the launching member 1660 also drives the thread assembly 1120 distally. As the launch member 1660 moves distally through the cartridge 1110, the tissue cutting mechanism 1666 cuts the tissue clamped between the anvil assembly 1130 and the cartridge 1110, and the thread assembly 1120 is a driver. Is driven upwards in the cartridge, which drives the corresponding staples or fasteners to form contact with the anvil assembly 1130.

In embodiments where the launch member comprises a tissue cut surface, the launch member is prevented from accidentally advancing unless the unused staple cartridge is properly supported within the elongated channel 1102 of the surgical end effector 1100. It may be desirable to construct an elongated shaft assembly in such a manner. For example, if there are no staple cartridges and the launcher advances distally through the end effector, the tissue is cut but not stapled. Similarly, if a used staple cartridge (ie, a staple cartridge in which at least some of the staples have already been fired) is present in the end effector and the firing member advances, the tissue will be cut, but the staples. Even if it is stapled, it may not be completely stapled. It will be understood that the occurrence of such a phenomenon can have undesired and catastrophic consequences during surgical procedures. US Pat. No. 6,988,649, Invention title "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SPENT CARTRIDGE LOCKOUT", US Pat. No. 7,044,352, Invention title "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT , U.S. Patent No. 7,380,695, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING", and U.S. patent application No. 14 / 742, 933 "LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR PREVENTING FIRING SYSTEM ACTION WHEN A CARTRIDGE IS SPENT OR MISSING" each discloses various launch member lockout configurations. Each of these references is incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

An "unfired", "unused", "new" or "new" cartridge 1110 means that, as used herein, the cartridge 1110 has all of its fasteners in their ready to fire position. When in that position, the thread assembly 1120 is located in its starting position. The new cartridge 1110 may be seated within the elongated channel 1102 and may be anchored therein by a snap mechanism on the cartridge body configured to retain and engage the corresponding portion of the elongated channel 1102. 15 and 18 show a portion of a surgical end effector 1100 with new or unlaunched surgical staples 1110 seated therein. As can be seen in these figures, the thread assembly 1120 is in the starting position. More precisely, the launch member 1660 is distal through the end effector 1110 to prevent the launch system from operating unless an unlaunched or new surgical staple cartridge is properly seated in the elongated channel 1102. To prevent directional drive, the illustrated interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 uses a launcher lockout system commonly designated as 1650.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 15-19, in one embodiment, the launch member lockout system 1650 and the launch member 1660 when the surgical staple cartridge 1110 is not properly seated in the elongated channel 1102. Includes a movable locking member 1652 configured to retain and engage. The locking member 1652 is at least one laterally moving locking portion 1654 configured to retainly engage the corresponding portion of the launching member when the thread assembly 1120 is not present in the cartridge 1110 at its starting position. To prepare for. In the illustrated arrangement, the locking member 1652 uses two laterally moving locking portions 1654, each locking portion 1654 engaging with a laterally extending portion of the launching member 1660.

In the illustrated embodiment, the locking member 1652 typically comprises a U-shaped spring member, with each laterally movable leg or locking portion 1654 extending from the central spring portion 1653 and FIG. 18 and FIG. It is configured to move in the lateral direction represented by "L" in 19. It will be understood that the term "lateral" means the direction across the shaft axis SA. The spring or locking member 1652 may be made of high strength spring steel or similar material. The central spring portion 1653 may be seated in slot 1236 in the end effector mounting assembly 1230. See FIG. As can be seen in FIGS. 15-17, each of the laterally movable legs or locking portions 1654 has a distal end 1656 with a locking window portion 1658 inside. When the locking member 1652 is in the locked position, a central retainer mechanism 1680 on each outer portion extends to the corresponding locking window portion 1658 to retain the launching member axially forward in the distal direction. To prevent.

The operation of the launch member lockout system will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 to 19. 15 and 18 show a portion of a surgical end effector 1100 with a new unfired cartridge 1110 properly installed within it. As can be seen in these figures, the thread assembly 1120 includes an unlocking mechanism 1126 corresponding to each of the laterally movable locking portions 1654. In the illustrated arrangement, the unlocking mechanism 1126 is provided on or extends proximal to each of the central wedge cams 1122. In an alternative arrangement, the unlocking mechanism 1126 may include a proximally projecting portion of the corresponding wedge cam 1122. As can be seen in FIG. 18, when the thread assembly 1120 is in its starting position, the unlocking mechanism 1124 engages with the corresponding locking portion 1654 and corresponds in a direction across the shaft axis SA. The lock portion 1654 is laterally urged. When the locking portions 1654 are in these unlocked orientations, the central retention device mechanism 1680 does not retain engagement with their corresponding lock window portion 1658. In these orientations, the launching member 1660 can be axially advanced (launched) in the distal direction. However, if the cartridge is not present in the elongated channel 1102, or if the thread assembly has moved from its starting position (meaning that the cartridge is partially or fully fired), the locking portion 1654 will be laterally A spring is applied to retain engagement with the launching member 1660. When in that position as illustrated in FIG. 19, the launching member 1660 cannot move distally.

16 and 17 show the retreat of the launching member 1660 to the starting position after firing the cartridge 1110 and driving the thread assembly 1120 distally. FIG. 16 shows the initial re-engagement of the retention mechanism 1680 with the corresponding lock window portion 1658. FIG. 17 shows a retention mechanism in the locked position when the launching member 1660 is completely retracted to its starting position. Each of the retention mechanisms 1680 faces proximally to assist lateral displacement of the lock portion 1654 when the locking portions 1654 are initially contacted by the retention mechanism 1680 moving in the proximal direction. It may be provided with laterally tapered edges. Such a lockout system prevents the launch member 1660 from operating in the absence of a new unfired cartridge, or in the presence of a new unfired cartridge, but is not properly seated in the elongated channel 1102. .. It should be noted that the lockout system may prevent the clinician from advancing the launch member distally if a used or partially fired cartridge is accidentally and properly seated in an elongated channel. .. Another advantage that can be provided by the lockout system 1650 is that other launcher lockout arrangements that require the launcher to move into and from the alignment with the corresponding slot / passage in the staple cartridge. Unlike the installation, the launch member 1660 is in the locked and unlocked positions while remaining aligned with the cartridge passage. The locking portion 1654 is designed to laterally move to engage and disengage the corresponding sides of the launching member. Such lateral movement of the locking portion (s) or locking portion (singular) is distinguishable from other locking arrangements that move vertically to engage and disengage the portion of the launching member. ..

Returning to FIGS. 13 and 14, in one embodiment, the anvil 1130 includes an elongated anvil body portion 1132 and a proximal anvil mounting portion 1150. The elongated anvil body portion 1132 includes an outer surface 1134 defining two downwardly extending tissue stop members 1136 adjacent to the proximal anvil mounting portion 1150. The elongated anvil body portion 1132 also includes a lower surface 1135 defining an elongated anvil slot 1138. In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 14, the anvil slot 1138 is centrally located within the lower surface 1135. The bottom surface 1135 includes three rows 1140, 1141, 1142 of staple forming pockets 1143, 1144, and 1145 located on each side surface of the anvil slot 1138. Adjacent to each side of the anvil slot 1138 are two elongated anvil passages 1146. Each passage 1146 has a proximal slope portion 1148. See FIG. As the launcher 1660 advances distally, the apex anvil engagement mechanism 1632 first enters the corresponding proximal slope portion 1148 and also enters the corresponding elongated anvil passage 1146.

With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, the anvil slot 1138 and the proximal slope portion 1148 extend to the anvil mounting portion 1150. In other words, the anvil slot 1138 divides or branches the anvil mounting portion 1150 into two anvil mounting flanges 1151. The anvil mounting flanges 1151 are connected together at their proximal ends by connecting bridges 1153. The connecting bridge 1153 can function to provide support for the anvil mounting flange 1151 and the anvil mounting portion 1150 can function to be more rigid than the mounting portions of the other anvil arrangements, the anvil mounting flange. Are not connected at their proximal end. As can also be seen in FIGS. 12 and 14, the anvil slot 1138 has a top portion of the launch member 1660 and a wide portion 1139 for accommodating the top anvil engagement mechanism 1632.

As can be seen in FIGS. 13 and 20-24, each of the anvil mounting flanges 1151 is a lateral mounting hole 1156 configured to receive pivot pins 1158 (FIGS. 10 and 20) through it. including. The anvil mounting portion 1150 is pivotally pinned to the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102 by a pivot pin 1158, which is the mounting hole 1107 and the mounting hole 1107 in the proximal end 1103 of the elongated channel 1102. It extends through the mounting hole 1156 in the anvil mounting portion 1150. Such an arrangement serves to pivotally secure the anvil 1130 to the elongated channel 1102 for selective pivotal movement around the fixed anvil axis AA across the shaft axis SA. See FIG. The anvil mounting portion 1150 also includes a cam surface 1152 extending from the central launcher resident area 1154 to the outer surface 1134 of the anvil body portion 1132.

In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil 1130 moves between the open and closed positions by axially advancing and retracting the distal closed tube section 1430. As described in more detail below, the distal end portion of the distal closed tube section 1430 has an internal cam surface formed on it, which is formed on the cam surface 1552 or anvil mounting portion 1150. It is configured to engage the cam with the surface of the cam. FIG. 22 shows a cam surface 1152a formed on the anvil mounting portion 1150, eg, to establish a single contact path 1155a with the internal cam surface 1444 on the distal closed tube section 1430. FIG. 23 is configured for the internal cam surface 1444 on the distal closed tube section, between the cam surface 1152 on the anvil mounting portion 1150 and the internal cam surface 1444 on the distal closed tube section 1430. A cam surface 1152b is shown that establishes a distinct and different arched contact path 1155b. In addition to the other potential advantages discussed herein, such an arrangement may function to better distribute the closure force from the distal closure tube section 1430 to the anvil 1130. FIG. 24 is configured for the internal cam surface 1444 of the distal closed tube section 1430 with three different contact areas 1155c and 1155d between the cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 1150 and the distal closed tube section 1430. The cam surface 1152c to be established is shown. Regions 1155c and 1155d establish a larger area of cam contact between the cam surface (s) or cam surface (s) on the distal closed tube section 1430 and the anvil mounting portion 1150 and close to the anvil 1130. It can function to better distribute the force.

As the distal closure section 1430 cam engages the anvil mounting portion 1150 of the anvil 1130, the anvil 1130 pivots around the anvil axis AA, thereby the end 1133 of the elongated anvil body portion 1132. The distal end pivots towards the distal end 1105 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110 and the elongated channel 1102. When the anvil body portion 1132 begins to pivot, the anvil comes into contact with the tissue to be cut and stapled, thereby between the bottom surface 1135 of the elongated anvil body portion 1132 and the deck 1116 of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. Positioned in. When the anvil body portion 1132 is compressed onto the tissue, the anvil 1130 may experience a significant amount of resistance. These resistances are overcome as the distal closure tube 1430 continues its distal advance. However, depending on their scale and application to the anvil body portion 1132, these resistances tend to bend the portion of the anvil 1130, which may generally be undesirable. For example, such bending can cause misalignment between the launching member 1660 and the passages 1148, 1146 in the anvil 1130. When the flexion is excessive, such flexion significantly increases the amount of firing force required to launch the instrument (ie, the launching member 1660 through the tissue from its start position to its end position). Can be driven). Such excessive firing force can result in damage to end effectors and / or firing members, and / or knife bars, and / or firing drive system components and the like. Therefore, it may be advantageous for the anvil to be configured to resist such bending.

25-27 show alternative anvil embodiments that include mechanisms that can improve the stiffness of the anvil body and the resistance to bending forces that may occur during the closing and / or firing process. The anvil 1130'may otherwise be identical in structure to the anvil 1130 described above, except for the differences discussed herein. As can be seen in these figures, the anvil 1130'has an elongated anvil body 1132' with an upper body portion 1165 to which the anvil cap 1170 is attached. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 25 to 27, the anvil cap 1170 has a substantially rectangular shape and has an outer cap peripheral portion 1172. Peripheral portion 1172 of the anvil cap 1170 is inserted through a correspondingly shaped opening 1137 formed in the upper body portion 1165 and received over an axially extending internal ledge portion 1139 formed therein. It is configured to be. See FIG. 27. The internal ledge portion 1139 is configured to support the corresponding long side 1177 of the anvil cap 1170. In an alternative embodiment, the anvil cap 1170 may slide onto the internal ledge 1139 through an opening (not shown) at the distal end 1133 of the anvil body 1132'. In yet another embodiment, the internal ledge portion is not provided. The anvil body 1132'and the anvil cap 1170 may be made of suitable metals that contribute to welding. The first weld 1178 may extend around the entire cap periphery 1172 of the anvil cap 1170, or the long side of the anvil cap 1170 rather than the distal end 1173 and / or its proximal end 1175. It may be arranged only along 1177. The first weld 1178 may be continuous, discontinuous or intermittent. In such embodiments where the first weld 1178 is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld compartments may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177 of the anvil cap 1170, or the weld compartments are long sides. It may be placed closer to the distal end of 1177 and more closely spaced, or it may be placed closer to and closer to the proximal end of the long side 1177. In yet other arrangements, the weld compartments may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177 of the anvil cap 1170.

28-30 show the anvil cap 1170', which is "mechanically interlocked" to the anvil body 1132'and is configured to be welded to the upper body portion 1165. In this embodiment, a plurality of retention components 1182 are formed on the wall 1180 of the upper body portion 1165 that defines the opening 1137. As used in this context, the term "mechanically interlocked" is used, for example, regardless of the orientation of the elongated anvil body and without any additional retention or fastening such as welding and / or adhesive. In addition, it means that the anvil cap remains fixed to the elongated anvil body. The retention structure 1182 may project inward from the opening wall 1180 to the opening 1137. The retention construct 1182 may be integrally formed with or attached to the wall 1180. The retention structure 1182 is designed to frictionally engage the corresponding portion of the anvil cap 1170'when the anvil cap 1170'is attached to the opening 1137, and the anvil cap 1170'is frictionally retained therein. do. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining structure 1182 projects inwardly into the opening 1137 and is frictionally received within the correspondingly shaped engaging region 1184 formed in the peripheral portion 1172'of the anvil cap 1170'. It is configured to be. In the illustrated arrangement, the retaining configuration 1182 corresponds only to the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170'and part of the wall 1180 corresponding to the distal end 1173 or the proximal end 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'. Not provided to. In an alternative arrangement, the retention construct 1182 may also be provided on the distal end 1173 and proximal end 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'and the portion of the wall 1180 corresponding to its long side 1177'. .. In yet other arrangements, the retention construct 1182 may be provided only to a portion of the wall 1180 corresponding to one or both of the distal and proximal ends 1173, 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'. .. In yet other arrangements, the retaining configuration 1182 is a wall 1180 corresponding to only one of the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170'and the proximal and distal ends 1173, 1175 of the anvil cap 1170'. May be provided in part. It will be further appreciated that the retaining protrusions in all of the aforementioned embodiments may be alternatively formed on the anvil cap with the engaging region formed in the elongated anvil body.

In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 28-30, the retention components 1182 are evenly spaced or evenly distributed along the wall portion 1180 corresponding to the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170'. In an alternative embodiment, the retention construct 1182 may be more closely spaced closer to the distal end of the long side 1177', or closer to the proximal end of the long side 1177. It may be closely separated. In other words, the spacing between these retention components adjacent to the distal end, the proximal end, or both the distal and proximal ends is located in the central portion of the anvil cap 1170'. It may be smaller than the distance between the bodies. In yet other arrangements, the retention construct 1182 may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170'. Also, in an alternative embodiment, the correspondingly shaped engagement region 1184 may not be provided to the outer peripheral portion 1172'or to part of the peripheral portion 1172' of the anvil cap 1170'. In other embodiments, the retaining structure and the engaging region of the corresponding shape may have different shapes and dimensions. In an alternative arrangement, the retention constructs may be dimensioned relative to the engagement area so that there is no tight fit between them. In such an arrangement, the anvil cap may be held in place by welding, adhesive, or the like.

In an exemplary embodiment, the weld 1178'may extend around the entire periphery 1172 of the anvil cap 1170', or the weld 1178'is the distal end 1173' and / or proximal thereof. It may be placed only along the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170', not the end 1175. The weld 1178'may be continuous, discontinuous or intermittent. In these embodiments where the weld 1178'is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld compartments may be evenly distributed along the long side 1177' of the anvil cap 1170', or the weld compartment is the long side 1177'. It may be placed closer to the distal end of the'and more closely spaced, or it may be placed closer to the proximal end of the long side 1177'. In yet other arrangements, the weld compartments may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177'of the anvil cap 1170'.

31 and 32 show another anvil arrangement 1130 "with an anvil cap 1170" attached thereto. In the examples shown, the anvil cap 1170'has a substantially rectangular shape and has an outer cap periphery 1172'. The outer cap peripheral portion 1172 "is inserted through a correspondingly shaped opening 1137" in the upper body portion 1165 of the anvil body 1132 "and has an axially extending internal ledge portion 1139" formed therein. And 1190 "is configured to be accepted. See FIG. 32. The ledge portions 1139" and 1190 "are configured to support the corresponding long side 1177" of the anvil cap 1170 ". In an alternative embodiment, the anvil cap 1170 "slides onto internal ledges 1139" and 1190 "through an opening (not shown) at the distal end 1133" of the anvil body 1132'. The anvil body 1132 "and the anvil cap 1170" may be manufactured from a metal material that contributes to welding. The first welded portion 1178 "is around the entire peripheral portion 1172" of the anvil cap 1170 ". It may be extended or placed only along the long side 1177 "of the anvil cap 1170", not the distal end 1173 "and / or its proximal end (not shown). The portion 1178 may be continuous, discontinuous or intermittent. The embodiment of the continuous welded portion is linear, for example, the anvil cap shown in FIG. 26. It will be appreciated that the anvil cap 1170 "has more welded surface areas due to the irregularly shaped perimeter as compared to embodiments with perimeters. In such embodiments where the weld 1178 "is discontinuous or intermittent, the weld compartments may be evenly distributed along the long side 1177" of the anvil cap 1170 ", or the weld compartments may be long. It may be placed closer to the distal end of side 1177 "and more closely spaced, or it may be placed closer to and closer to the proximal end of long side 1177". Then, the weld divisions may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177 "of the anvil cap 1170".

Still referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, the anvil cap 1170 "may be additionally welded to the anvil body 1132" by a plurality of second separate "deep" welds 1192 ". For example, each weld 1192 "may be located at the bottom of the corresponding hole or opening 1194" provided via the anvil cap 1190 ", whereby the separate weld 1192" becomes a ledge 1190 ". May be formed along a portion of the anvil body 1132 "between 1139" and 1139 ". See FIG. 32. Welds 1192" are evenly aligned along the long side 1177 "of the anvil cap 1170". The welded portion 1192 "may be distributed closer to or closer to the distal end of the long side 1177" or closer to the proximal end of the long side 1177 ". In yet other arrangements, the welds 1192 "may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177" of the anvil cap 1170 ".

FIG. 33 shows another anvil cap 1170 "mechanically interlocked" to the anvil body 1132 "and configured to be welded to the upper body portion 1165" in the present embodiment. The "fitted tongue" arrangement is used along each long side 1177'''' of the anvil cap 1170''. Specifically, the laterally extending continuous or intermittent tabs 1195 "" project from each of the long sides 1177 "" of the anvil cap 1170 "". Each tab 1195 "corresponds to an axial slot 1197"'' formed in the anvil body 1132''. The anvil cap 1170 "" is an opening at the distal end of the anvil body 1132 "". Sliding from (not shown) to "mechanically" secure the anvil cap to the anvil body 1132'''. The tabs 1195 ″ and slot 1197 ″ may be sized relative to each other to establish a sliding friction fit between them. The anvil cap 1170 "" may be welded to the anvil body 1132 "". The anvil body 1132 ″ and anvil cap 1170 ″ may be made of a metal that contributes to welding. The weld 1178''' may extend around the entire perimeter of the anvil cap 1170''', or only along the long side 1177''' of the anvil cap 1170''. It may be arranged. The welded portion 1178 ″ may be continuous, discontinuous or intermittent. In such embodiments where the welds 1178'''' are discontinuous or intermittent, the weld compartments may be evenly distributed along the long sides 1177'''' of the anvil cap 1170''. Alternatively, the weld compartments may be more closely spaced closer to the distal end of the long side 1177'' or closer closer to the proximal end of the long side 1177''''. May be done. In yet other arrangements, the weld compartments may be more closely spaced in the central region of the long side 1177 ″ of the anvil cap 1170 ″ ″.

The anvil embodiments described herein with anvil caps may provide several advantages. For example, one advantage is that the process of anvil and launch member assembly can be made easier. That is, the launching member may be installed through the opening of the anvil body while the anvil is attached to the elongated channel. Another advantage is that the top cap can improve the stiffness and resistance of the anvil to the aforementioned bending forces that can be experienced when clamping tissue. By resisting such bending, the frictional forces normally encountered by the launching member 1660 can be reduced. Therefore, in surgical staple cartridges, the amount of firing force required to drive the firing member from its start to end position can also be reduced.

As mentioned above, when the anvil body 1130 begins to pivot, the anvil body 1132 comes into contact with the tissue to be cut and stapled, thereby between the underside of the elongated anvil body 1132 and the deck of the surgical staple cartridge 1110. Positioned in. When the anvil body 1132 is compressed onto the tissue, the anvil 1130 may experience a considerable amount of resistance. In order to continue the closure process, these resistances must be overcome by the distal closure tube section 1430 upon cam contact with the anvil mounting portion 1150. These resistances may generally be applied to the distal closed tube section 1430 in the vertical direction V, which, in excess, vertically expands or extends the distal closed tube section 1430. (The distance ID in FIG. 31 can be increased). If the distal closure tube 1430 extends vertically, the distal closure tube section 1430 may not be able to effectively close the anvil 1130 and retain the anvil 1130 in a completely closed position. When that condition occurs, the launcher 1660 may encounter dramatically higher resistance and may then require higher launch force to advance the launcher distally.

34 and 35 show one form of a closing member for applying a closing motion to the movable jaw of a surgical instrument. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure member comprises, for example, a distal closure tube section 1430 having a closure portion 1470. As mentioned above, one form of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 is configured to facilitate selective range of motion of the surgical end effector 1100. To facilitate such joint movements, the distal closed tube section 1430 is provided with the upper and lower protrusions 1434 and lower protrusions 1436, as well as the upper and lower double pivot links 1220 and 1222, to allow the proximal closed tube section 1410. Movably connected to. See FIG. In one arrangement, the distal closed tube section 1430 may be machined from, for example, a circular barstock made from a suitable metallic material, or may be formed in another way. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure 1470 has an outer surface 1431 and an inner surface 1433 defining an upper wall portion 1440 with a cross-sectional thickness UWT of the upper wall portion and a lower wall portion 1442 having a lower wall thickness LWT. .. The upper wall portion 1440 is located above the shaft axis SA, and the lower wall portion 1442 is located below the shaft axis SA. The distal end 1441 of the upper wall portion 1440 has an internal cam surface 1444 formed on it at a cam angle Θ. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, UWT> LWT, which functions to provide a longer internal cam surface 1444 when the distal closed tube section has a uniform wall thickness, can be otherwise achieved. The long internal cam surface may be advantageous in transmitting the closing force to the cam surface (s) on the anvil mounting portion 1150. As can be further seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, the transition side walls 1446, 1448 located on each side of the shaft axis SA between the upper wall portion 1440 and the lower wall portion 1442 are generally parallel to each other. Includes inner sidewall surfaces 1451, 1453, which are generally flat and extend vertically. The transition side walls 1446 and 1448 each have a wall thickness that transitions from the upper wall thickness to the lower wall thickness.

In the illustrated arrangement, the distal closed tube section 1430 also includes a positive jaw or anvil opening mechanism 1462 that corresponds to and inwardly projects from the sidewalls 1446 and 1448, respectively. As can be seen in FIGS. 34 and 35, the anvil opening mechanism 1462 was machined or otherwise formed on the transition side walls 1446, 1448 adjacent to the distal end 1438 of the distal closed tube section 1430. , Formed on the laterally mounted body 1460, sized to be received within the corresponding shaped cavities 1447, 1449. The positive anvil opening mechanism 1462 extends inwardly through the corresponding openings 1450, 1452 at the transition sidewalls 1446, 1448. In the illustrated arrangement, the laterally mounted body 1460 is welded to the distal closed tube section 1430 by the welded portion 1454. In addition to or in place of the weld, the laterally mounted body 1460 may be held in place using mechanical / frictional fitting, a grooved tongue arrangement, an adhesive, or the like.

36-41 show an example of the use of the distal closed tube section 1430 to move the anvil 1130 from a fully closed position to a fully open position. 36 and 39 show the position of the distal closed tube section 1430, and more specifically, the position of one of the positive anvil opening mechanisms 1462 when the distal closed tube section 1430 is in the completely closed position. Is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the anvil opening inclined surface 1162 is formed on the respective lower surfaces of the anvil mounting flange 1151. When the anvil 1130 and the distal closed tube section 1430 are in their fully enclosed position as shown in FIG. 36, each of the positive anvil opening mechanisms 1462 is between the anvil opening inclined surface 1162 and the bottom of the elongated channel 1102. Located in the established cavity 1164. When in that position, the positive anvil opening mechanism 1462 does not contact the anvil mounting portion 1150, or at least do not apply significant open motion or force to it. 37 and 40 show the location of the anvil 1130 and the distal closed tube section 1430 upon initial application of open motion in the proximal PD to the distal closed tube section 1430. As can be seen in FIG. 37, the positive jaw opening mechanism 1462 first contacts the anvil opening inclined surface 1164 to initiate the anvil 1130 to pivot to the open position. In the illustrated arrangement, each of the positive anvil opening mechanisms 1462 has an inclined or rounded distal end 1463 to facilitate better cam contact with the corresponding anvil opening inclined surface 1162. .. In FIGS. 38 and 41, the distal closed tube section 1430 is retracted to its fully retracted position, where the positive anvil opening mechanism 1462 is the distal end of the anvil opening inclined surface 1162. Drives to, thereby pivoting the anvil 1130 to its fully open position, as shown within it. Other embodiments do not require the use of a positive jaw opening mechanism, but to urge the anvil to the open position if the distal closed tube section is retracted to its most recent starting position. , Spring or other urging arrangement may be relied on.

42 and 43 show another closure member for applying the closure movement to the movable jaw of the surgical instrument. In this embodiment, the closing member comprises a distal closing tube section 1430', which may resemble a distal closing tube section 1430 without a positive anvil opening mechanism. The distal closed tube section 1430'has a closed body 1470' with an outer surface 1440' and an inner surface 1433' defining the upper wall portion 1440'and the lower wall portion 1442'. As mentioned above, it is possible to use the largest possible internal cam surface 1444'to maximize cam contact with the cam surface on the anvil mounting portion 1150 and thereby effectively transmit the closing force there. May be desirable. Therefore, the upper wall portion 1440'of the distal closed tube section 1430' may be provided with the thickest wall thickness UWT, and the lower portion of the distal closed tube section 1430' has the thinnest wall thickness LWT. You may. For reference purposes, UWTs and LWTs are measured along a common reference line extending through the central axis or point C of the distal closed tube section 1430'. Therefore, UWT is the exact opposite of LWT, UWT> LWT. Such a wall thickness arrangement facilitates the formation of a longer internal cam surface 1444'.

As can be seen in FIG. 43, the distal closed tube section 1430'has an outer surface 1431' with a circular cross-sectional shape. The distal closed tube section 1430'may be machined from solid bar stock. In the illustrated embodiment, the internal radius R ₁ from the first central axis A _inner extends to the inner surface 1433'and the outer radius R ₂ from the second central axis A _outer extends to the outer surface 1431'. It is postponed. In the illustrated embodiment, the axis A _inner is offset by a distance OR from the axis A _outer , and R ₂ > R ₁ .

FIG. 44 shows another closing member for applying a closing motion to the movable jaw of a surgical instrument. In this embodiment, the closure member comprises a distal closure tube section 1430 "with a closure body 1470". The closure 1470 "has an outer surface 1431', as well as an upper wall portion 1440 with an upper wall thickness UWT and a lower wall portion 1442 with a lower wall thickness LWT, and two side wall portions 1435'each having a side wall pressure SWT. Has an inner surface of 1433 ”defining. In the illustrated example, UWT> LWT. In addition, SWT> UWT. Therefore, SWT> UWT> LWT. In the illustrated arrangement, the side wall portion 1435'has the same side wall thickness SWT. In other arrangements, the side wall portion 1435'may have different thicknesses. As can be seen in FIG. 44, each side wall portion 1435'defines an internal surface portion 1437' that extends vertically inside. In the illustrated embodiment, the vertically extending inner surface portions are approximately parallel to each other. Such a thicker vertical sidewall portion 1435'can help prevent, or at least minimize, the vertical extension of the distal closed tube section 1430 "in use.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 45, R ₁ and R ₂ are measured from a common center point or center axis C, and R ₁ > R ₂ . Each of the side wall portions 1435 "of the closed body portion 1470''' of the distal closed tube section 1430'''extending between the upper 1431 "and 1433" with the UWT at a point along the horizontal reference line HR. It has approximately the same side wall thickness SWT. The horizontal reference line HR extends through the central axis C and is perpendicular along the vertical reference line VR to which the UWT and LWT can be measured and compared. In another embodiment, the SWT may be slightly smaller than the UWT when measured along the horizontal reference line HR. The SWT has a side wall portion 1435'with a constant lower wall thickness LWT. It may continue to decrease until it transitions to the lower 1433'having. Therefore, the inner side wall 1437 "is perpendicular to the horizontal reference axis HR and parallel to the vertical reference axis VR, the corresponding vertical reference axis VR. When measured from', it extends at angle _A2 .

FIG. 46 shows another closing member for applying a closing motion to the movable jaw of a surgical instrument. In this embodiment, the closure member comprises a distal closure tube section 1430 "with a round outer surface 1431" and a closure body 1470 "with a rectangular internal passage 1439 extending through it. The outer surface 1431". It is located at a distance R from the geometric center point or the center axis C. As shown, the upper wall thickness UWT is equal to the lower wall thickness LWT when measured along the vertical reference axis VR extending through the center point or center axis C. When measured along the horizontal reference axis HR, which extends through the center point or center axis C and is perpendicular to the vertical reference axis VR, the thickness SWT of the side wall portion 1437 "is the upper wall thickness and the lower wall thickness UWT. And larger than LWT. Therefore, SWT is larger than UWT and LWT. In other words, the portion of the distal closed tube section 1430 "located above the horizontal reference line HR is located below the horizontal reference line HR. It is a mirror image of the portion of the distal closed tube section 1430 ". In this embodiment, the side portion 1437" is thicker than the upper wall portion and the lower wall portion, and the distal closed tube section tends to extend vertically. Can tend to be prevented or minimized. The internal cam surface may be formed on the distal end of the upper wall portion 1440 ".

In the illustrated arrangement, the anvil 1130 moves between the open and closed positions by advancing the distal closed tube section 1430 distally. As can be seen in FIG. 41, when the anvil 1130 is in the fully open position, the distal end 1163 of the anvil mounting flange 1151 may extend above the deck surface 1116 of the staple cartridge 1110. If the closure process is initiated by advancing the distal closure section distally in the distal DD, the distal end 1163 of the anvil mounting flange 1151 extends beyond the deck surface 1116 of the staple cartridge 1110. It is present and thereby prevents infiltration of tissue between them which can interfere with the closure process. See FIG. 40. Once the anvil 1130 has been moved to a completely closed position by the distal closure section 1430, the distal end 1461 of the laterally mounted body on the distal closure section 1430 allows tissue to infiltrate between them. It further acts to stop the tissue to prevent it. See FIG. 41.

FIG. 47 shows a portion of the surgical end effector 110'that may resemble the surgical end effector 110 of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 100 of FIGS. 1 and 2. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 47, the anvil 114 includes an elongated body portion 190 and an anvil mounting portion 192. The anvil mounting portion 192 comprises two spaced anvil mounting flanges 194 projecting proximally from the elongated body portion 190. Each anvil mounting flange 194 has an outwardly extending trunnion 196 on it. Each trunnion 196 is movably received within a corresponding kidney-shaped slot or elongated arched trunnion slot 197 provided in the elongated channel 112. When the anvil 114 is in the "fully open" position, the trunnion 196 is generally located at the bottom portion 198 of the elongated bow-shaped trunnion slot 197. The anvil 114 can be moved to the closed position by advancing the distal closed tube section 142 distally to the distal DD, whereby the end 148 of the distal closed tube section 142 is anvil. It rides on the cam surface 193 formed on the anvil mounting portion 192 of 114. The distal closed tube section 142 pivots the body portion 190 of the anvil 114 as the distal end 148 of the distal closed tube section 142 advances distally along the cam surface 193 on the anvil mounting portion 192. And move axially with respect to the surgical staple cartridge 116. When the distal closure section 142 reaches the end of its closure stroke, the distal end 148 of the distal closure section 142 is adjacent / contacting / contacting the steep anvil ledge 191 and also on the underside of the body portion 190. It functions to position the anvil 114 so that the forming pocket (not shown) is properly aligned with the staples in the cartridge. The anvil ledge 191 is defined between the cam surface 193 on the anvil mounting portion 192 and the elongated anvil body portion 190. In other words, in this arrangement, the cam surface 193 does not extend to the outermost surface 195 of the anvil body 190. After the distal closure tube 142 reaches this fully extended position, any further application of closure movement / force to the anvil 114 may cause damage to the anvil and / or closure system components. As can be seen in FIG. 47, in this arrangement, the closing force _HF is parallel to the shaft axis SA. The distance between the axis or plane _TA passing through the center of trunnion 196 and the closing force vector F _H is expressed as the distance X _R. The product of this distance X _R and the closing force F _H represents the closing motion _CM applied to the anvil 114.

48 and 49 show the closing force configuration of the anvil 1130 of the surgical end effector 1100 of the interchangeable tool assembly 1000. As mentioned above, the anvil trunnion 1158 is pivotally mounted within the hole 1154 in the elongated channel 1102. Unlike the anvil 114 described above, the anvil 1130 does not move in the axial direction. Instead, the anvil 1130 is constrained to only pivot around the anvil axis AA. Between the internal cam surface 1444 on the distal closure section 1430 and the cam surface 1152 on the anvil mounting portion 1150 as the distal closure section 1430 advances in the distal direction DD under horizontal closure force _HF1 . The interaction of the distal closure tube section 1430 results in the experience of the vertical closure force component _VF . The resulting force vector NF experienced by the cam surface 1152 on the anvil mounting portion ₁₁₅₀ is "perpendicular" or perpendicular to the internal cam surface 1444. The angle Θ in FIGS. 48 and 49 horizontally represents the angle of the cam surface 1152, similar to the internal cam surface 1440. As a result, the distance between the resulting force vector _{F N} and the axis or plane TA extending through the center of the anvil trunnion 1158 is expressed as the motion arm _MA . The product of this motion arm distance _MA and the obtained force vector F _N represents the closing motion _CM1 applied to the anvil 1130. Therefore, in the application where the horizontal closing force _{F H} = _{F H1} , MA> XR and therefore the closing motion applied to the anvil 1130 is applied to the anvil 1130 to exceed the closing motion applied to the anvil 114. The actual amount of closing torque may exceed the amount of closing torque applied to the anvil 114. FIG. 49 also shows the resistance established by the tissue during the closure process. _FT represents the force generated by the tissue when the tissue is clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge. This "opposite" motion MT applied to the anvil 1130 is the distance _{XT between the tissue force TF extending} through the center of the anvil _trunnion 1158 and the axis or plane _TA and the tissue force. Equal to the product. Therefore, _CM1 must be _greater than MT to achieve the desired amount of anvil closure.

Returning to the embodiment shown in FIG. 47, the launch bar 170 is located within the elongated channel 112 when in the starting or unlaunched position, and more particularly in the distal closed tube section at a predetermined position. It can be seen that it is attached to the launching member 174, which is located completely distal to 142, and that the apex portion 175 of the launching member 174 is in contact with a portion of the anvil 114. Such an arrangement completely or completely displaces the anvil 114, as the launching member 174 is located at a position where the apex 175 can contact the anvil as the anvil 114 moves to the closed position. Greater closing force may be required to move to a closed position. It should be noted that when the launch system is activated, higher launch forces may be required to overcome frictional interference between the top portion 175 of the launch member 174 and the anvil 114. Conversely, as can be seen in FIG. 48, in the end effector 1100, the launching member 1660 is "resident" in the launching member stationing area 1154 within the distal closed tube section 1430. If the launching member 1660 is located within the launching member resident area 1154 within the distal closed tube section 1430, no significant frictional force with the anvil cannot be generated. Therefore, one of the advantages that can be achieved by having the launcher 1660 fully stationed within the distal closure section 1430 is the reduction in the amount of closing force required to close the anvil to the fully closed position, and / Or it could be a reduction in the amount of firing force required to advance the launching member from the start position to the ending position within the end effector. In other words, any frictional contact between the launching member and the anvil so that the launching member 1660 is completely proximal to the distal end of the distal closed tube section 1430 and the internal cam surface 1444 above it. Stationing the launching member 1660 so that it is in the starting position to be eliminated or reduced may ultimately require the generation of lower closing and firing forces due to the operation of the end effector.

As mentioned above, excessive bending of the anvil during the closure and firing process can result in the need for undesired higher firing power. Therefore, a more rigid anvil arrangement is generally desirable. Returning to FIGS. 20 and 21, another advantage that can be provided by the anvil 1130 and the elongated channels 1102 shown within it is that the anvil mounting portion 1150 of the anvil 1130 is generally more robust and therefore other anvils. And more rigid than the elongated channel arrangement. FIG. 50 shows the use of a rigid gusset 199 between the anvil mounting flange 194 and the elongated anvil body portion 190. Similar gusset arrangements between the anvil mounting flange 1151 of the anvil 1130 and the anvil body 1132 can be used to further increase the anvil rigidity.

As mentioned above, the replaceable surgical tool 1000 includes an elastic spine member 1520. As can be seen in FIGS. 6, 7, 7A, 8 and 51-54, the distal end portion 1522 of the elastic spine member 1520 is provided by an extension mechanism 1530 formed on the elastic spine member 1520. Separated from the proximal end portion 1524 of the elastic spine member 15. The extension limiting insert 1540 is retained and supported between the distal end portion 1522 and the proximal end portion 1524. In various arrangements, the elastic spine member 1520 may be manufactured, for example, from a suitable polymer material, rubber, etc., having a modulus of elasticity designated as ME ₁ for reference purposes. The stretching mechanism 1530 may include a plurality of stretching cavities 1532. As can be seen in FIG. 7A, the illustrated extension mechanism 1530 includes four triangular extension cavities 1532 arranged to define some flexible wall compartments 1534 between them. Other shapes and numbers of extension cavities 1532 may be used. The extension cavity 1532 may be formed or machined into, for example, an elastic spine member 1520.

Still referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 51-54, the stretch limiting insert 1540 includes a body portion 1541 having a modulus of elasticity designated as ME ₂ for reference purposes. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the body portion 1541 includes two downwardly extending mounting lugs 1542, each configured to sit within a mounting cavity 1535 formed in the elastic spine member 1520. .. See also FIG. 7A. In order to provide the stretch limiting insert 1540 with the desired amount of stretch capacity and elasticity, the body portion 1541 in the illustrated arrangement is provided with a plurality of upper cavities 1543. The illustrated embodiment has a relatively square or rectangular shape and includes four upper cavities 1543 spaced apart so as to define a flexible wall 1544 between them. Other embodiments may include upper cavities of other numbers and shapes. The body portion 1541 of the illustrated stretch limiting insert 1540 is also centrally located and includes a downwardly projecting central lug portion 1545, which is configured to sit in the central cavity 1536 above the stretch mechanism 1530. .. See FIG. 7A. In the illustrated embodiment, the central lug portion 1545 comprises a pair of central passages 1546 extending laterally through them and defining a flexible wall 1547 between them.

Also, in the illustrated embodiment, the stretch limiting insert 1540 includes an elongated lateral cavity 1548 disposed on each outer side of the body portion 1541. Only one lateral cavity 1548 can be seen in FIGS. 6 and 51-54. Each elongated lateral cavity 1548 is configured to support a corresponding extension limiter 1550 within it. Therefore, in the described examples, two stretch limiters 1550 are used in the stretch limiting insert 1540. In at least one arrangement, the extension limiter 1550 includes an elongated body portion 1552 that terminates with a mounting lug 1554 extending downwards on each end. Each mounting lug 1554 is received in a corresponding lug cavity 1549 formed in the body portion 1541. The stretch limiter may have a modulus of elasticity for the reference purpose of ME ₃ . In at least one arrangement, ME ₃ <ME ₂ <ME ₁ .

The operation of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 when operably attached to the handle assembly 500 is now described in more detail with respect to FIGS. 51-54. FIG. 51 shows the anvil assembly 1130 in the open position. As can be seen in this figure, the distal closed tube section 1430 is in its starting or inactive position, and the positive anvil opening mechanism 1462 pivots the anvil 1130 to the open position. The launching member 1660 is in the non-operating position or the starting position, and the upper portion including the upper nose portion 1630 is stationed in the launching member stationing area 1154 of the anvil mounting portion 1150. When the replaceable tool assembly 1000 is in this inactive state, the stretch limiting insert 1540 is in the unstretched state. The axial length of the stretch limiting insert 1540 when in the unstretched state is represented by the _LUS in FIG. _LUS is between the reference axis A corresponding to the proximal end of the body portion 1541 of the stretch limiting insert 1540 and the reference axis B corresponding to the distal end of the body portion 1541, as shown in FIG. Represents the distance of. The axis labeled F corresponds to the location of the distal end of the staple cartridge 1110 properly seated in the elongated channel 1102. It will be appreciated that when the tool assembly 1000 is in this inactive state, the elastic spine member 1520 is in a relaxed, unstretched state.

FIG. 52 shows the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 after the closure drive system 510 has been activated as described above to drive the distal closure tube section 1430 distally to the distal DD. When the distal closure section 1430 moves distally, the cam surface 1444 on the distal end 1441 of the upper wall portion 1440 of the distal closure section 1430 is the cam surface 1152 and cam on the anvil mounting portion 1150. Contact and pivot the anvil 1130 to the illustrated closed position. The closed drive system 510 moves and then invalidates the distal closed tube section 1430 throughout the closed stroke distance, and the distal closed tube section is axially locked at that position by the closed drive system 510. Or it is retained in that position by another method. When the distal closure section 1430 contacts the anvil mounting portion 1150, the closing force generated by the distal advance of the distal closure section 1430 on the anvil 1130 also causes the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 to the distal DD. To move forward in the axial direction. The stretching mechanism 1530 in the elastic spine 1520 begins to stretch to adapt to this distal advance of the elongated channels 1102 and anvil 1130. The axis B as shown in FIG. 52 is the reference axis of the stretch limiting insert 1540 in the relaxed or unstretched state. The axis C corresponds to the end of the stretch limiting insert 1540 after the stretch limiting insert has been stretched to its maximum length. The distance L _s represents the maximum amount or length that the stretch limiting insert 1540 can be elongated. The axis G corresponds to the position of the distal end of the surgical staple cartridge 1110 after the anvil 1130 has been moved to its "first" closure position. The distance _LT to the reference axis FG represents the axial distance traveled by the elongated channels 1102 and the anvil 1130 during the operation of the closed drive system 510. This distance _LT can be equal to the distance _LS that the stretch limiting insert 1540 stretched during the closure process, as limited by the stretch limiter 1550.

Returning to FIG. 51, it can be seen that there is a space S between each mounting lug 1554 of the extension limiter 1550 and each inner wall 1551 of the lug cavity 1549 prior to the start of the closure process. As can be seen in FIG. 52, the space S disappears. That is, each of the mounting lugs 1554 is adjacent to the corresponding cavity wall 1549 in the stretch limiting insert 1540. Thus, the stretch limiter 1550 functions to limit the amount of stretch experienced by the stretch limiting insert 1540, which is the elongated channel 1102 to the proximal end portion 1524 of the elastic spine 1520 and distal to the anvil 1130. The amount of movement is sequentially limited. The distal closure tube 1430 is axially locked in place by the closure drive system 510. When in that position, the anvil 1130 is held in the "first" closed position with respect to the surgical staple cartridge 1110. Since the launch drive system 530 has not yet been activated, the launch member 1660 has not moved and remains stationed in the launch member stationed area 1154. The position of the lower surface of the anvil 1130 when in the "first" closed position is represented by the axis K in FIGS. 52 and 53.

FIG. 53 shows the position of the launch member 1660 after the launch drive system 530 was first activated. As can be seen in this figure, the launching member 1660 is advancing distally from the launching member resident area 1154. Each of the top portions of the launch member 1660, and more specifically the top anvil engagement mechanism 1672, has entered the proximal slope portion 1138 of the corresponding axial passage 1146 in the anvil 1130. At this point in the process, the anvil 1130 may be under considerable bending stress caused by the structure clamped between the underside of the anvil 1130 and the deck of the staple cartridge 1110. This bending stress, as well as the frictional resistance between the various parts of the launching member and the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102, causes the elongated channel 1102 and the distal closure while the launching member 1660 first advances distally. It works to essentially retain the pipe division in a static state. During this period, the amount of force required to launch the launching member 1660, or in other words, pushing the launching member 1660 distally through the tissue clamped between the anvil 1130 and the cartridge 1110. The amount of force required for is increased. See line 1480 in FIG. 55. Also during this period, the stretch limiting insert attempts to retract the elongated channel 1102 and anvil 1130 into the distal closed tube section 1430 in the proximal PD. Once the amount of friction between the launcher 1660 and the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 is less than the retracting force generated by the stretch limiting insert 1540, the stretch limiting insert 1540 moves away from the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130. It can cause further proximal pulling into the closed tube compartment 1430. The position of the distal end 1113 of the staple cartridge 1110 after the elongated channel 1102 and the anvil 1130 have moved in the proximal direction PD is represented as position H in FIG. The axial distance traveled by the elongated channels 1102 and the anvil 1130 in the proximal direction PD is represented as the distance I in FIG. Proximal movement of the anvil 1130 and the elongated channel 1102 into the distal closed tube section 1430 may result in the distal closed tube section 1430 applying additional closing force to the anvil 1130. The line M in FIG. 54 represents the "second" closure position of the anvil 1130. The distance between position K and position M, represented as distance N, includes the vertical distance at which the distal end 1133 of the anvil body 1132 travels between the first closed position and the second closed position. ..

Anvil 1130 by the tissue clamped between the anvil 1130 and the cartridge 1110 by applying an additional closing force to the anvil 1130 by the distal closure tube section 1430 when the anvil 1130 is in the second closure position. Resists the amount of bending force applied to. Such a condition may result in better alignment between the passage in the anvil body 1130 and the launcher 1660, which will continue to advance distally through the end effector 1100. The amount of frictional resistance experienced by the 1660 can ultimately be reduced. Therefore, the amount of firing force required to advance the launching member to the end position through the rest of the firing stroke can be reduced. This reduction in firing power can be seen in the chart in FIG. The chart shown in FIG. 55 compares the firing forces (energy) required to launch a launching member from start to finish of the firing process. Line 1480 represents the amount of firing force required to move the launching member 1660 from its starting position to its ending position when the end effector 1100 clamps tissue within it. Line 1482 represents, for example, the amount of firing force required to move the launching member of the interchangeable surgical tool assembly 1000 described above. Line 1482 represents the firing force required to move the launching member 174 from its start to end position through the tissue clamped in the end effector 110 or 110'. As can be seen in this chart, the firing force required by both the surgical tool assembly 100, 1000 is that the elastic spine assembly 1510 of the interchangeable tool assembly 1000 provides a second amount of closing force. Substantially the same as or very similar to 1484 at the time of addition to the anvil. As can be seen in the chart of FIG. 55, if a second amount of closing force is experienced by the anvil 1130 (point 1484), the amount of closing force required to complete the launch process is the tool. Less than the amount of closing force required to complete the closing process in assembly 100.

FIG. 56 compares the amount of launch load required to move the launch members of various surgical end effectors from the start position (0.0) to the end position (1.0). The vertical axis represents the amount of launch load, and the horizontal axis represents the percentage of distance the launcher travels between the start position (0.0) and the end position 1.0). Line 1490 indicates, for example, the firing force required to launch the firing member of the surgical tool assembly 100 or similar tool assembly. Line 1492 uses modifications and configurations of various launching members and, for example, U.S. Patent Application No. ________, title of the invention "STAPLE CARTRIDGE COMPRISING STAPLES WITH DIFFERENT CLAMPING BREADTHS", agent reference number END8047USNP / 160. To launch a launching member of a surgical tool assembly, filed on the same date as the specification and which may be disclosed in other U.S. patent applications described above, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Shows the required firing power. Line 1494 is used to launch a launching member from its starting position to its ending position in a surgical tool assembly that uses at least some of the features and arrangements for reinforcing anvils disclosed herein. Shows the required firing power. Line 1496 is required to launch, for example, an elastic spine arrangement and a surgical tool assembly using at least some of the features and arrangements disclosed herein to reinforce anvil. Indicates the firing power. As seen in this figure, surgical tool assemblies using elastic spine arrangements, and at least some of the anvil reinforcement arrangements disclosed herein, have much lower force-to-launch requirements.

Traditionally, surgical staples and cutting instruments are robust mechanical locks configured to protect against unauthorized firing of surgical staples and cutting instruments due to the risks associated with such fraudulent launches. Equipped with out. For example, firing a surgical staple and cutting instrument that is not loaded with staple cartridges or is loaded with already fired staple cartridges is when tissue cutting is performed without any tissue staple fastening. In addition, it can cause severe bleeding.

The recent transition to motor-driven surgical staple fastening and cutting instruments presents new challenges for ensuring the safe operation of such instruments. In particular, the present disclosure presents various electrical and electromechanical lockouts suitable for use with motor-driven surgical staple fasteners and cutting instruments. Since lockout failures can result in serious risks for the patient, the present disclosure presents multiple safeguards that operate redundantly to ensure that lockout failures are avoided. The present disclosure provides various techniques for detecting when a staple cartridge is attached to an end effector of a surgical staple fastener and cutting instrument. The present disclosure further provides various techniques for detecting whether an attached staple cartridge has been used.

The end effector 4000 of a surgical staple fastening system is illustrated in FIG. 57. The end effector 4000 includes a frame 4002, a cartridge jaw 4004, and an anvil 4006. The cartridge jaw 4004 is fixed and extends from the frame 4002. The anvil 4006 is movable relative to the cartridge jaw 4004 between the open or non-clamped position and the closed or clamped position (FIG. 57). In an alternative embodiment, the cartridge jaw 4004 is movable relative to the anvil 4006 between an open or non-clamped position and a closed or clamped position. In at least one such embodiment, the anvil 4006 is fixed and extends from the frame 4002.

The cartridge jaw 4004 includes a channel or carrier 4022 configured to receive a staple cartridge, such as, for example, a staple cartridge 4008. Referring to FIG. 58, the staple cartridge 4008 includes a cartridge body 4010. The cartridge body 4010 comprises a deck 4012 configured to support the patient's tissue, a longitudinal slot 4014, and a row of six longitudinally extending staple cavities 4016 defined within the deck 4012. I have. Each staple cavity 4016 is configured to receive the staples internally and to retract the staples. The staple cartridge 4008 further includes a staple driver configured to drive the staples from the staple cavity 4016. Other staple cartridges with various other arrangements of staple cavities, decks, and / or staples are envisioned for use with the End Effector 4000.

In addition to the above, the staple cartridge 4008 further comprises a thread 4018 configured to engage the staple driver. More specifically, the thread 4018 comprises an inclined surface 4020, when the inclined surface 4020 engages a cam defined on the staple driver and the thread 4018 is moved distally through the staple cartridge 4008. , The staple driver and staple in the staple cavity 4016 are configured to lift. The launching member is configured to move the thread 4018 distally from the proximal, unlaunched or starting position to the distal, firing or ending position during the staple firing stroke.

With reference to FIGS. 58, 59 and 60B, the staple cartridge 4008 includes a cartridge circuit 4024. The cartridge circuit 4024 includes a storage medium 4026, a cartridge connector area 4017 with a plurality of external electrical contacts 4028, and a cartridge state circuit portion 4032 including a trace element 4034. The storage medium 4026 may be a memory for storing information about the staple cartridge 4008, such as various characteristics of the staple cartridge 4008, including, for example, firing state, staple type, staple size, cartridge batch number, and / or cartridge color. ..

Referring to FIGS. 61 and 62, the thread 4018 is configured to cut the capture and trace element 4034 from the cartridge state circuit portion 4032 as the thread 4018 advances distally from the starting position. Further includes a circuit breaker 4019 comprising. By cutting the trace element 4034, the circuit breaker 4019 shifts the cartridge state circuit portion 4032 from a closed configuration to an open configuration, which is a staple from an unfired or unused state to a fired or used state. Signal the transition of the cartridge 4000. Information about this transition may be stored in storage medium 4026. Therefore, detecting that the staple cartridge 4008 has a cut trace element 4034 may indicate that the staple cartridge 4008 has already been fired.

As illustrated in FIGS. 61 and 62, the grip member 4021 of the circuit breaker 4019 has a first portion 4023 and a first portion 4023 extending from or away from the bottom surface 4025 of the thread 4018. It has a right angle configuration with a second portion 4027, which defines a right angle to the portion 4023. The second portion 4027, as illustrated in FIG. 62, is separated from the bottom surface 4025 by a distance sufficient to hold the cut trace element 4034 snugly. This arrangement ensures that the cut trace element 4034 does not accidentally go missing in the patient's body after the completion of the end effector 4000 launching process. In at least one example, the circuit breaker 4019 may include, for example, a magnetic member configured to magnetically retain the cut trace element 4034. In various cases, the trace element may be disconnected or displaced to disconnect or establish an electrical connection that indicates whether the staple cartridge was fired without completely disconnecting the trace element.

In at least one example, the carrier 4022 may include a Hall effect sensor 4029 (FIG. 62A) configured to detect the presence of a magnet embedded in or attached to the thread 4018. The Hall effect sensor 4029 can detect the presence of a magnet while the thread 4018 is in the starting, proximal, or unlaunched position. However, once the thread 4018 advances distally towards the end, distal, or firing position, the Hall effect sensor 4029 no longer detects the presence of the magnet. In at least one example, the controller 4050 receives the input from the Hall effect sensor 4029 and evaluates the position of the thread 4018, so that the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used based on the readings of the Hall effect sensor 4029. It can be configured to determine if it has been done. In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor 4029 may be attached to the thread 4018 with the corresponding magnet attached to and / or embedded in the carrier 4022. In certain cases, other position sensors may be employed to determine if the thread 4018 is in the starting, proximal, or unlaunched position.

In certain cases, a Hall effect sensor and magnet combination is employed to determine if the staple cartridge has been used by detecting whether the staple driver is in the starting or unfired position. obtain. As mentioned above, during the firing stroke, the thread 4018 is displaced from the starting, proximal, or unlaunched position towards the end, distal, or firing position to move multiple staple drivers. And deploy the staples of the staple cartridge. Each staple driver is generally lifted from a starting or unlaunched position to a final or firing position to deploy one or more staples. The Hall effect sensor may be coupled to the carrier 4022 or staple cartridge 4008. The corresponding magnet may be coupled to a staple driver, such as, for example, the proximal staple driver of the staple cartridge 4008. In at least one case, the corresponding magnet is coupled to the latest staple driver of the staple cartridge 4008. In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor is coupled to the carrier 4022 or staple cartridge 4008 with the magnet coupled to the staple driver. In certain cases, the Hall effect sensor is coupled to the carrier 4022 or staple cartridge 4008 with the magnet coupled to the nearest staple driver.

The Hall effect sensor is configured to detect the presence of a magnet while the staple driver is in the starting or unlaunched position. However, once the staple driver is moved so that the thread 4018 is lifted from the starting or unlaunched position, the Hall effect sensor no longer detects the presence of the magnet. Alternatively, the Hall effect sensor and magnet arrangement may be configured to detect, for example, when the staple driver reaches the final or firing position. The Hall effect sensor and magnet arrangement may be configured to detect, for example, when the most distal staple driver reaches the final or firing position. In either case, the controller 4050 receives the input from the Hall effect sensor and evaluates the position of the staple driver so that the installed staple cartridge 4008 has been used based on the readings of the Hall effect sensor 4029. It may be configured to determine if it exists. In certain cases, other position sensors may be employed to determine if the staple driver is in the starting or unlaunched position.

As illustrated in FIG. 62A, the controller 4050 may include one or more storage media, such as a processor 4052 and / or memory 4054. By executing the instruction code stored in memory 4054, processor 4052 may control various components of surgical staple fastening and cutting instruments such as launch system 4056 and user interface 4058 such as, for example, a display. .. When the memory 4054 is executed by the processor 4052, the staple cartridge 4008 attached to the processor 4052 based on the input from one or more sensors, for example, the Hall effect sensor 4029, is used. Includes a program instruction to determine whether or not.

The user interface 4058 may include one or more visual feedback elements, including, for example, a display screen, a backlight, and / or LEDs. In certain cases, the user interface 4058 may include one or more audio feedback systems, such as speakers and / or buzzers. In certain cases, the user interface 4058 may include, for example, one or more tactile feedback systems. In certain cases, the user interface 4058 may include, for example, a combination of visual, audio, and / or tactile feedback systems.

In at least one case, the carrier 4022 is configured to be electrically connected to the corresponding electrical contacts in the thread 4018 of the staple cartridge 4008 seated in the carrier 4022. Includes contact points. Electrical contacts define electrical circuit 4031 (FIG. 62B) that remains closed while thread 4018 is in the proximal unlaunched position. Electrical circuit 4031 is advanced towards the end, distal, or launch position due to the disconnection of the electrical connection between the electrical contacts of the carrier 4022 and the thread 4018. Moved to open configuration.

The electrical circuit 4031 may further include one or more sensors, such as a voltage sensor or a current sensor configured to detect whether the electrical circuit 4031 is in a closed or open configuration, for example. Inputs from one or more sensors may be received by controller 4050. The controller 4050 may determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on inputs from one or more sensors. The memory 4054, when executed by the processor 4052, is a program instruction that causes the processor 4052 to determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on the input from one or more sensors. May include.

In certain cases, the staple cartridge 4008 may include, for example, an ETS lockout having a continuous path along a thread path defined by a thread guide rail. When the thread is in the most recent position, the thread is configured to block the electrical path. However, when the thread advances distally, the electrical path is completed and is detected, for example, by an inductance sensor in the carrier 4022. In various cases, one or more inductance sensors are configured to track one or more proximal forming pockets for identification of staple fingerprints received within the proximal pocket. Can be done. The inductance sensor may be configured to detect the absence of staples from their respective forming pockets. An example of an ETS lockout is U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0248577, filed March 26, 2012, the title of the invention "SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE WITH LOCKOUT," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. SYSTEM FOR PREVENTING ACTION IN THE ABSENCE OF AN INSTALLED STAPLE CARTRIDGE ”, currently described in US Pat. No. 9,078,653.

In at least one embodiment, a staple cartridge similar to the staple cartridge 4008 comprises at least one electrical circuit 4033 (FIG. 62C) with two electrical contacts separated from each other. The electrical contacts are configured to be bridged by the staples of the staple cartridge when the staples are in the unfired position. Therefore, the electrical circuit 4033 is in a closed configuration when the staples are in the unlaunched position. In addition, the electrical circuit 4033 is in an open configuration when the staples are lifted by a staple driver for deployment within the tissue. Lifting the staples by the staple driver during the firing stroke separates the staples from the electrical contacts of the electrical circuit 4033, thereby shifting the electrical circuit 4033 to an open configuration.

The electrical circuit 4033 may further include one or more sensors, such as a voltage sensor or a current sensor configured to detect whether the electrical circuit 4033 is in a closed or open configuration, for example. Inputs from one or more sensors may be received by controller 4050. The controller 4050 may determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on inputs from one or more sensors. The memory 4054, when executed by the processor 4052, is a program instruction that causes the processor 4052 to determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on the input from one or more sensors. May include.

In at least one case, a staple cartridge similar to the staple cartridge 4008 is configured to break when the staple driver of the staple cartridge is lifted to deploy one or more staples in the tissue. Includes at least one electrical circuit 4035 (FIG. 62D) with a conductive bridge, which shifts the electrical circuit 4035 from a closed configuration to an open configuration. Lifting the staple driver during the firing stroke cuts, disconnects, or displaces the conductive bridge of electrical circuit 4035, thereby shifting electrical circuit 4033 to an open configuration. The conductive bridge of the electric circuit 4035 is arranged within a predetermined path of the staple driver cartridge. In at least one case, the conductive bridge extends across, or at least partially, across a staple pocket configured to store the staples in an unlaunched position.

The electrical circuit 4035 may further include one or more sensors, such as a voltage sensor or a current sensor configured to detect whether the electrical circuit 4035 is in a closed or open configuration, for example. Inputs from one or more sensors may be received by controller 4050. The controller 4050 may determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on inputs from one or more sensors. The memory 4054, when executed by the processor 4052, is a program instruction that causes the processor 4052 to determine whether the attached staple cartridge 4008 is used or not based on the input from one or more sensors. May include.

In various cases, if the attached staple cartridge 4008 is determined to be used, the controller 4050 disables the launch system 4056 and / or via a user interface such as, for example, the display 4058. It is configured to provide user feedback depending on the reason. Controller 4050 may identify and / or assist the user in dealing with the cause of the disabling of the launch system 4056. For example, the controller 4050 may warn the user that the attached staple cartridge is used or not the correct type to be used with the end effector 4000. Other techniques for determining whether a staple cartridge has been used are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, filed April 18, 2016, U.S. Patent Application No. 15/131. , 963, the title of the invention "METHOD FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT".

As illustrated in FIG. 60A, the carrier 4022 includes a carrier circuit 4043 (FIG. 60C) that is separably coupled to the cartridge circuit 4024 of the staple cartridge 4008. The carrier circuit 4043 has a plurality of electrical contacts 4036. In addition, the carrier circuit 4043 includes a carrier connector region 4013 with a plurality of connectors 4038 defining the first electrical contact 4038a and the second electrical contact 4038b, respectively. The connector 4038 is positioned so that a gap is maintained between the electrical contacts 4036 and the first electrical contact 4038a of the connector 4038 in their neutral position. Each of the connectors 4038 comprises a curved portion protruding from the support wall 4040. The second electrical contact 4038b is defined in the curved portion of the connector 4038. When the staple cartridge 4008 is inserted into the carrier 4022, the external electrical contact 4028 of the staple cartridge 4008 engages the connector 4038 and the electrical contact 4036 attaches to the corresponding first electrical contact 4038a of the connector 4038. It is configured to move to an electrically connected urging configuration. While the staple cartridge 4008 is seated in the carrier 4022, the external electrical contact 4028 of the staple cartridge 4008 is also electrically coupled to the corresponding second electrical contact 4038b of the connector 4038.

To ensure a robust electrical connection, one or more of the electrical connectors 4038, external electrical contacts 4028, electrical contacts 4036, electrical contacts 4038a, and / or electrical contacts 4038b may be used. It can be coated with a liquid repellent coating, or at least partially coated, and / or embedded in an insulating material such as silicon to prevent fluid ingress. As illustrated in FIG. 60A, the liquid repellent coating is added to the electrical connector 4038 and the electrical contact 4036. In at least one embodiment, the liquid repellent coating is added to all electrical cables and / or connections of the staple cartridge. For example, Acculon, Inc. One or more liquid repellent coatings produced by may be used.

In addition to the above, the electrical contacts 4038b of the spring-loaded electrical connector 4038 are such that the liquid repellent coating is removed or stripped from the external electrical contacts 4028 of the staple cartridge 4008, thereby establishing an electrical connection with the staple cartridge 4008. Includes a wear mechanism or staple 4039 in the form of a raised dome-shaped structure configured in. The compressible seal 4041 is configured to prevent, or at least resist, fluid ingress between the carrier 4022 and the staple cartridge 4008 seated in the carrier 4022. The compressible seal 4041 may consist of a compressible material that fits snugly between the carrier 4022 and the staple cartridge 4008 seated in the carrier 4022. As illustrated in FIG. 60A, the compressible seal 4041 is around, or at least in part, around the electrical connector 4038 and the external electrical contacts 4028 of the staple cartridge 4008 when the staple cartridge 4008 is seated in the carrier 4022. Demarcate the periphery.

Primarily with reference to FIGS. 58-60, the carrier connector area 4013 and the cartridge connector area 4017 provide an electrical connection between the cartridge circuit 4024 and the carrier circuit 4043 when the staple cartridge 4008 is seated in the carrier 4022. It is configured to facilitate. As illustrated in FIG. 60, the carrier connector region 4013 is located on the side wall 4009 of the carrier 4022. The carrier connector region 4013 is fixed to the inner surface 4011 of the side wall 4009. As illustrated in FIG. 59, the cartridge connector area 4017 is located on the side wall 4007 of the staple cartridge 4008. The cartridge connector area 4017 is fixed to the outer surface 4005 of the side wall 4007. The carrier connector region 4013 is configured to abut the cartridge connector region 4017 when the staple cartridge 4008 is seated in the carrier 4022. The compressible seal 4041 prevents, or at least resists, fluid ingress between the carrier connector area 4013 and the cartridge connector area 4017. Positioning the carrier connector area 4013 and the cartridge connector area 4017 on the corresponding sidewalls 4009 and 4007 establishes an electrical connection between the staple cartridge 4008 and the end effector 4000 by seating the staple cartridge 4008 in the carrier 4022. To facilitate. Positioning the carrier connector area 4013 and the cartridge connector area 4017 on the corresponding sidewalls 4009 and 4007 is between the carrier connector area 4013 and the cartridge connector area 4017 by simply seating the staple cartridge 4008 within the carrier 4022. Allows you to establish a connection.

As illustrated in FIG. 63, the first electrical interface 4042 is defined by electrical contacts 4036 and 4038a. The first electrical interface 4042 is configured to be transitioned between an open configuration in which the electrical contacts 4036 and 4038a are separated and a closed configuration in which the electrical contacts 4036 and 4038a are electrically connected. Will be done. Similarly, the second electrical interface 4044 is defined by electrical contacts 4038b and 4028. The second electrical interface 4044 is configured to be transitioned between an open configuration in which the electrical contacts 4038b and 4028 are separated and a closed configuration in which the electrical contacts 4038b and 4028 are electrically connected. Will be done. Further, a third electrical interface 4046 is defined between the end effector 4000 of the surgical stapler and cutting instrument and the handle portion. The third electrical interface 4046 is also configured to transition between an open configuration in which the end effector 4000 is not attached to the handle portion and a closed configuration in which the end effector 4000 is attached to the handle portion. ..

The transition of the electrical interface 4042 from the open configuration to the closed configuration indicates that the staple cartridge was mounted on the carrier 4022. In addition, the transition of the electrical interface 4044 from the open configuration to the closed configuration indicates that the correct type of staple cartridge has been attached to the carrier 4022. When the electrical interface 4044 is in a closed configuration, the storage medium 4026 of the staple cartridge 4008 can be accessed to obtain information about the staple cartridge 4008 stored therein.

In certain cases, as illustrated in FIG. 63, the electrical interfaces 4042, 4044, and 4046, as well as the cartridge state circuit portion 4032, are electrically connected within the control circuit 4048. In such cases, the safety mechanism prevents the end effector 4000 from firing if at least one of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and cartridge state circuit portion 4032 is in the open configuration. Can be incorporated to do so. In other words, when the control circuit 4048 is in the open configuration, the safety mechanism prevents the end effector 4000 from firing. In other words, if the end effector 4000 is not properly attached to the handle of the surgical instrument, if the staple cartridge is not attached to carrier 4022, if the wrong staple cartridge is attached to carrier 4022, and / Alternatively, if a used staple cartridge is attached to the carrier 4022, the safety mechanism will prevent the end effector 4000 from firing.

In certain cases, one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and cartridge state circuit portion 4032 are connected in parallel with the inseparable portion of control circuit 4048. This helps to avoid any single point failure due to the complete interruption of control circuit 4048. This arrangement is an event in which one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and cartridge state circuit portion 4032 are in an open configuration and continue within the control circuit 4048. Ensure electrical connectivity. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 63, the trace element 4034 of the cartridge state circuit portion 4032 is in parallel with the first resistance element 4037 and in series with the second resistance element 4037'to ensure continued operation. In addition, a single point failure of the control circuit 4048 is avoided in the event that the trace element 4034 is disconnected. One or more sensors, including but not limited to voltage and / or current sensors, are in the current configuration and / or transition between open or disconnected configurations and closed or intact configurations. Can be used to detect.

In certain cases, one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and cartridge state circuit portion 4032 are not connected in series. In such cases, one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and / or cartridge state circuit portion 4032 provide feedback on their dedicated function separately. It is configured to do.

Referring to FIGS. 63-65, one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and cartridge state circuit portion 4032 has the open configuration exemplified in FIG. It can be implemented in the form of a conductive gate 4060 that can be transferred to and from the closed configuration illustrated in FIG. 65. In a closed configuration, the conductive gate 4060 allows electrical connection between two endpoints of an electrical circuit, for example control circuit 4048. However, the electrical connection is broken when the conductive gate 4060 is transitioned to the open configuration.

The conductive gate 4060 can be repeatedly transitioned between the closed and open configurations. The conductive gate 4060 includes a pivot portion 4062 rotatably attached to the first endpoint 4068 of the control circuit 4048. The conductive gate 4060 is configured to pivot around the first endpoint 4068 between the open and closed configurations. The conductive gate 4060 further includes a mounting portion 4066 separated from the pivot portion 4062. The central bridge portion 4064 extends between the pivot portion 4062 and the mounting portion 4066 and connects them. As illustrated in FIGS. 64 and 65, the mounting portion 4066 is such that the second endpoint 4069 of the control circuit 4048 is releasably captured and the conductive gate 4060 is transitioned from an open configuration to a closed configuration. It is in the form of a configured hook or latch. In certain cases, the attachment portion 4066 may comprise, for example, a magnetic attachment or any other mechanical attachment. In at least one case, the conductive gate 4060 can be spring-loaded in a closed configuration. Alternatively, the conductive gate 4060 may be spring-loaded in an open configuration.

As illustrated in FIG. 65A, the surgical instrument safety mechanism 4047 may include a controller 4050, which may include a processor 4052 and / or one or more storage media such as, for example, a memory 4054. By executing the instruction code stored in the memory 4054, the processor 4052 may control various components of the surgical instrument such as the launch system 4056 and a user interface such as the display 4058. Controller 4050 maintains tracking of the state of electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and / or cartridge state circuit portion 4032. As described in more detail below, the controller 4050 has been reported to be one or more of the electrical interface 4042, electrical interface 4044, electrical interface 4046, and / or cartridge state circuit portion 4032. Depending on the condition, the launch system 4056 may be disabled and / or user feedback may be provided depending on the reason for the invalidation. In certain cases, the controller 4050 may identify and / or assist the user in dealing with the cause of the disabling of the launch system 4056. For example, the controller 4050 may warn the user that the attached staple cartridge is used or not the correct type to be used with the end effector 4000.

In various cases, memory 4054 is attached to processor 4052 when executed by processor 4052, and staple cartridge 4008 is attached to carrier 4022 when processor 4052 detects a transition of electrical interface 4042 to a closed configuration. Includes a program instruction to determine that it is. In addition, the memory 4054 may include program instructions, which, when executed by processor 4052, have been detected by processor 4052 to transition to a closed configuration of electrical interface 4042, but in a cartridge state. When the circuit portion 4032 is in the open configuration, it is determined that the staple cartridge 4008 has already been used or fired.

In addition to the above, the memory 4054 is also the memory of the staple cartridge 4008 attached to the processor 4052 when executed by the processor 4052 when the processor 4052 detects a transition of the electrical interface 4044 to a closed configuration. It may include a program instruction that causes the 4026 to determine that it is accessible. In addition, the processor 4052 may be configured to acquire specific information stored in memory 4026 of the attached staple cartridge 4008. In certain cases, the closed configuration of the electrical interface 4042 is detected, but the closed configuration of the electrical interface 4044 is not detected, indicating that the wrong staple cartridge is attached to the carrier 4022.

In addition to the above, the memory 4054 also, when executed by the processor 4052, with the end effector 4000 of the surgical instrument when the processor 4052 detects a transition of the electrical interface 4046 to a closed configuration by the processor 4052. It may include a program instruction to determine that a normal connection with the handle portion has been detected.

With reference to FIG. 65B, the block diagram illustrates a method of launching a surgical instrument containing an end effector, such as, for example, the end effector 4000. In step 4073, the firing trigger 4550 (FIG. 80) is pressed while the cutting member of the end effector 4000 is positioned proximal to a predetermined non-cartridge lockout region. One or more position sensors may be used to determine the position of the cutting member. The firing trigger may be located on the handle of the surgical instrument and may be pushed by the user, for example, to initiate the firing stroke of the surgical instrument. Next, the first determination block 4075 is configured to check whether the trace element 4034 (FIG. 61) is intact, and the second determination block 4077 has the memory 4026 (FIG. 59) read. It is configured to check whether to get or not. If the trace element 4034 is not intact or the memory 4026 cannot be read, a firing lockout is engaged as shown in step 4079. Once the captured tissue is then released by unclamping the end effector 4000 in step 4070, the range of motion mode is reengaged in step 4072. However, if the trace element 4034 is intact and the memory 4026 is read, the launch system 4056 will be able to proceed through the launch stroke in step 4074. The determination block 4076 is configured to provide a threshold at a predetermined cut line where the launch system 4056 is reset. Resetting the launch system 4056 may include returning the cutting member to a predetermined initial position, as illustrated in step 4078. As illustrated in step 4074a, when the firing trigger 4550 is pressed while the cutting member of the end effector 4000 is positioned distal to a predetermined non-cartridge lockout region, the firing system 4056 fires. It becomes possible to proceed using a stroke.

Referring to FIGS. 66-70, the staple cartridge 4100 is in many respects similar to the staple cartridge 4008. The staple cartridge 4100 is releasably attached to the end effector 4000. In addition, the staple cartridge 4100 includes a cartridge state circuit 4102 for assessing whether the staple cartridge 4100 is attached to the end effector 4000 and / or whether the attached staple cartridge 4100 has already been fired. ..

As illustrated in FIG. 66, the staple cartridge 4100 comprises a conductive gate 4160 at the proximal portion 4103 of the staple cartridge 4100. The conductive gate 4160 is movable between a first closed configuration (FIG. 68), a second closed configuration (FIG. 70), and an open configuration (FIG. 69). The controller determines whether the staple cartridge 4100 is attached to the end effector 4000 and / or whether the conductive gate 4160 is in an open configuration, a first closed configuration, or a second closed configuration. Can be configured to evaluate whether the staple cartridge 4100 has already been fired. In at least one case, the first closed configuration is a partially closed configuration, while the second closed configuration is a completely closed configuration.

In the closed configuration, the conductive gate 4160 extends across an elongated slot 4114 defined between the first deck portion 4112a and the second deck portion 4112b of the staple cartridge 4100. The conductive gate 4160 extends between the first endpoint 4168 of the cartridge state circuit 4102 and the second endpoint 4170 of the cartridge state circuit 4102. The first endpoint 4168 is defined on the first side wall 4114a of the elongated slot 4114 and the second endpoint 4170 is defined on the second side wall 4114b of the elongated slot 4114. To connect the first endpoint 4168 and the second endpoint 4170 in a closed configuration, the conductive gate 4160 bridges an elongated slot 4114, as illustrated in FIG.

As illustrated in FIG. 66, the conductive gate 4160 includes a pivot portion 4162 rotatably attached to a first endpoint 4168 of the cartridge state circuit 4102. The conductive gate 4160 is configured to pivot around a first endpoint 4168 between an open configuration, a first closed configuration, and a second closed configuration. The conductive gate 4160 further includes a mounting portion 4166 separated from the pivot portion 4162. The central bridge portion 4164 extends between the pivot portion 4162 and the mounting portion 4166 and connects them. As illustrated in FIG. 66, the mounting portion 4166 is in the form of a hook or latch configured to be releasably captured by a second endpoint 4170. Mounting portion 4166 includes a "C" shaped ring 4171 configured to receive a second endpoint 4170 in a second closed configuration. The opening 4173 of the "C" shaped ring 4171 is slightly smaller than the second endpoint 4170. Therefore, because the second endpoint 4170 is received within the "C" shaped ring 4171, the external force is such that the second endpoint 4170 opens the "C" shaped ring 4171 as illustrated in FIG. It is required to pass through section 4173 and make the conductive gate 4160 into a second closed configuration.

The conductive gate is spring-forced towards a closed configuration, but the spring-loaded force is insufficient to make the conductive gate 4160 a second closed configuration. Thus, in the absence of an external force moving the conductive gate 4160 towards an open or second closed configuration, the conductive gate 4160 is under the influence of spring-loaded forces, as illustrated in FIG. It will swing to a stationary position in the first closed configuration. In the first closed configuration, the intermediate region 4175 between the "C" shaped ring 4171 of the mounting portion 4166 and the central bridge portion 4164 contacts the second endpoint 4170. However, the second endpoint 4170 is not accepted within the "C" shaped ring 4171.

The staple cartridge 4100 further comprises a thread 4118, which is similar in many respects to the thread 4018. The launching member 4113 is configured to move the thread 4118 distally from the proximal, unlaunched or starting position to the distal, firing or ending position during the staple firing stroke. In addition, the thread 4118 is configured to be open from the second closed configuration as the thread 4118 advances distally from the proximal, unlaunched or start position towards the distal position, launch position or end position. Includes a catch member 4119 configured to engage and migrate the conductive gate 4160. Upon loss of contact with the catch member 4119, the conductive gate 4160 is configured to return from the open configuration to the first closed configuration under the influence of spring-loaded forces and in the absence of any external force.

Referring to FIG. 67, the catch member 4119 includes a proximal extension portion 4119a extending proximally from the thread 4118 and an engagement portion 4119b projecting from the proximal end of the proximal extension portion 4119a. The engaging portion 4119b is a position where the thread 4118 is distal, launched or terminated from the proximal, unlaunched or start position to deploy the staples during the firing stroke of the surgical stapler and cutting instrument. The conductive gate 4160 is arranged to be captured by the engaging portion 4119b as it advances toward.

At least a portion of the catch member 4119 may be constructed from a non-conductive material. In at least one example, the engaging portion 4119b is made at least partially from a non-conductive material.

Other arrangements and configurations of the catch member 4119 are considered by the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the catch member 4119 may be, for example, a strut extending away from the base 4118a of the thread 4118. In another example, the catch member 4119 may be in the form of an inclined surface, the conductive gate 4160 is configured to engage the lower part of the inclined surface, and as the thread 4118 advances distally, The slanted surface shifts the conductive gate 4160 to an open configuration. Once the conductive gate 4160 reaches the top of the inclined surface, the spring-loaded force returns the conductive gate 4160 to the first closed position.

Referring to FIGS. 68-71, the first closed configuration, the second closed configuration, and the open configuration represent the first resistance state, the second resistance state, and the infinite resistance state, respectively, and the first The resistance state is different from the second resistance state and the infinite resistance state, and the second resistance state is different from the first resistance state and the infinite resistance state. By detecting which of the three states is the current state and / or detecting the transition between states, the controller 4050 (FIG. 71) has the staple cartridge 4100 on the end effector 4000. It can be determined if it is attached and / or if the attached staple cartridge 4100 has already been fired.

The conductive gate 4160 defines a first resistance when the conductive gate 4160 is in the first closed configuration and is different from the first resistance when the conductive gate 4160 is in the second closed configuration. It may be configured to define a second resistance. The controller 4050 may include a processor 4052 and / or one or more storage media such as, for example, a memory 4054. By executing the instruction code stored in the memory 4054, the processor 4052 can identify the current resistance state of the conductive gate 4160. The controller 4050 may be one or two, for example, disabling the launch system 4056 and / or providing user feedback depending on the reason for such disabling, depending on the detected resistance state. It can perform more than one function.

In various cases, the memory 4054 is attached to the processor 4052 when executed by the processor 4052, and an unused or unlaunched staple cartridge 4100 attached to the carrier 4022 when a second resistance state is detected by the processor 4052. Includes a program instruction to determine that. In addition, the memory 4054 is attached to the processor 4052 when executed by the processor 4052, and a used or already fired staple cartridge 4100 attached to the carrier 4022 when the first resistance state is detected by the processor 4052. It may include a program instruction that causes it to be determined to be. Memory 4054 may include program instructions that, when executed by processor 4052, cause processor 4052 to determine that the staple cartridge is not attached to carrier 4022 when an infinite resistance state is detected by processor 4052.

The controller 4050 may be configured to determine whether the staple cartridge 4008 is detected during activation or feeding of the surgical instrument by performing a first read or a plurality of reads of the resistance state. If an infinite resistance condition is detected, the controller 4050 may then instruct the user through the display 4058 to, for example, load or insert the staple cartridge 4008 into the carrier 4022. If the controller 4050 detects that the staple cartridge 4008 is installed, the controller 4050 determines whether the installed staple cartridge has already been fired by performing a second read or multiple reads of the resistance state. Can be determined. If a first resistance condition is detected, the controller 4050 may instruct the user that the attached staple cartridge 4008 has already been fired and / or to replace the staple cartridge 4008.

The controller 4050 uses the resistance state detector 4124 to detect the current resistance state and then determines if the conductive gate 4160 is in an open configuration, a first closed configuration, or a second closed configuration. do. In at least one embodiment, the resistance state detector 4124 may include a current sensor. For example, the controller 4050 may generate a predetermined potential between the first endpoint 4168 and the second endpoint 4170 and then measure the current passing through the conductive gate 4160. If the measured current corresponds to the first resistance, controller 4050 determines that the conductive gate 4160 is in the first closed configuration. On the other hand, if the measured current corresponds to the second resistance, the controller determines that the conductive gate 4160 is in the second closed configuration. Finally, if no current is detected, the controller 4050 determines that the conductive gate 4160 is in the open configuration. In at least one embodiment, the resistance state detector 4124 may include other sensors, such as voltage sensors.

In various cases, one or more controllers of the present disclosure, such as the controller 4050, are implemented using integrated and / or discrete hardware, software, and / or a combination of both. May be done. Examples of integrated hardware elements include processors, microprocessors, controllers, integrated circuits, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and digital signal processors (digital). signal processor (DSP), field programmable gate array (FPGA), logic gate, register, semiconductor element, chip, microchip, chipset, microcontroller, system-on-chip (SoC) , And / or system-in-package (SIP). Examples of individual hardware elements may include circuits and / or circuit elements (eg, logic gates, field effect transistors, bipolar transistors, registers, capacitors, inductors, relays, etc.). In other embodiments, the one or more controllers of the present disclosure may include, for example, a hybrid circuit comprising individual and integrated circuit elements or components on one or more substrates. ..

In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 72, circuit 4080 comprises a controller comprising one or more processors 4082 (eg, microprocessor, microcontroller) coupled to at least one memory circuit 4084. Can be prepared. At least one memory circuit 4084, when executed by processor 4082, is one or two of the functions performed on processor 4082 by one or more controllers of the present disclosure, such as controller 4050. Store machine-executable instructions that execute machine instructions to implement the above.

Processor 4082 may be any one of the many single or multi-core processors known in the art. The memory circuit 4084 can include volatile and non-volatile storage media. In one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 72, the processor 4082 may include an instruction processing unit 4086 and an arithmetic unit 4088. The instruction processing unit may be configured to receive instructions from one memory circuit 4084.

In one embodiment, the circuit 4090 is configured to implement one or more of the functions performed by one or more of the present disclosure, such as the controller 4050. A finite state machine comprising the combined logic circuit 4092, exemplified in 73, may be provided. In one embodiment, the circuit 4200 may comprise a finite state machine comprising an order logic circuit, as illustrated in FIG. 74. The sequential logic circuit 4200 may include, for example, a combination logic circuit 4202 and at least one memory circuit 4204. At least one memory circuit 4204 may store the current state of the finite state machine, as illustrated in FIG. The order logic circuit 4200 or the combination logic circuit 4202 may be configured to implement one or more of the functions performed by one or more of the controllers of the present disclosure, eg, controller 4050. .. In certain cases, the order logic circuit 4200 may be synchronous or asynchronous.

In another embodiment, the circuit is finite with processor 4082 to implement one or more of the functions performed by one or more of the controllers of the present disclosure, eg controller 4050. May include combinations with state machines. In another embodiment, the finite state machine can include a combination of combination logic circuit 4090 and sequence logic circuit 4200.

In some examples, various embodiments may be realized as manufactured articles. The manufactured article may include a computer-readable storage medium configured to store logic, instructions, and / or data for performing various operations of one or more embodiments. In various embodiments, for example, the manufactured article may include a magnetic disk, optical disk, flash memory, or firmware containing computer program instructions suitable for execution by a general purpose processor or a special purpose processor. However, embodiments are not limited to this context.

The functions of the various functional elements, logic blocks, modules, and circuit elements described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein are software, control modules, logic, and / or logic performed by the processing unit. It can be implemented in the general context of computer executable instructions, such as modules. In general, software, control modules, logic, and / or logic modules include any software element that is configured to perform a particular operation. Software, control modules, logic, and / or logic modules can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform specific tasks or implement specific abstract data types. Software, control modules, logic, and / or implementations of logic modules and techniques may be stored in and / or transmitted through some form of computer-readable medium. In this regard, the computer readable medium can be any available medium that can be used to store information and make it accessible to computing devices. Some embodiments may also be implemented in a distributed computing environment where the operation is performed by one or more remote processing devices coupled through a communication network. In a distributed computing environment, software, control modules, logic, and / or logic modules may be located on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.

In addition, the embodiments described herein represent exemplary implementations, in which functional elements, logic blocks, modules, and circuit elements are various other consistent with the described embodiments. It should be understood that it can be implemented in a way. Moreover, the operations performed by such functional elements, logic blocks, modules, and circuit elements may be coupled and / or separated for a given implementation, with more or fewer elements or modules. Can be done. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art by reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and exemplified herein will not deviate from the scope of this disclosure and will be any of several other embodiments. It has separate components and mechanisms that can be easily separated from such mechanisms or combined with their properties. Any of the methods described can be carried out in the order of the events described or in any other logically possible order.

The above detailed description has described various embodiments of the apparatus and / or process using block diagrams, flow diagrams, and / or embodiments. As long as such a block diagram, flow diagram and / or embodiment includes one or more functions and / or operations, each function and / or embodiment contained in such a block diagram, flow diagram or embodiment. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the operation can be implemented individually and / or collectively by a variety of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, some parts of the subject matter described herein are of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gate array (FPGA), digital signal processor (DSP), or other integrated type. Can be realized in form. However, one or two of the embodiments disclosed herein, whether in whole or in part, run on one or more computers. One or two running on one or more processors as one or more computer programs (eg, as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems) Equivalent in an integrated circuit as the above program (eg, as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof. Recognize that designing circuits and / or writing software and / or firmware code is well within the skill of those skilled in the art in view of the present disclosure. Will. In addition, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the mechanism of the subject matter described herein can be distributed as a program product in a variety of forms and is specific to the subject matter described herein. It will be appreciated that embodiments apply regardless of the particular type of signal carrier used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of signal transport media include recordable media such as floppy disks, hard disk drives, compact discs (CDs), digital video disks (DVDs), digital tapes, computer memories, and the like. Transmission type media, such as digital and / or analog communication media (eg, optical fiber cables, waveguides, wired communication links, wireless communication links (eg, transmitters, receivers, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.)). However, it is not limited to these.

Various mechanisms are described herein to detect the attachment of staple cartridges to surgical staple fasteners and cutting instruments. In addition, various mechanisms are described herein to determine if the attached staple cartridge has been used. Since the firing of surgical staples and cutting instruments in the absence of unused and properly installed staple cartridges poses a significant risk to the patient, the electromagnetic lockout mechanism 4300 may be used, for example, in the firing system 4056. Used in conjunction with the launch system, if the staple cartridge is not attached to the carrier 4022 of the surgical staple and cutting instrument, or if the attached staple cartridge has been used, the surgical staple and cutting instrument Prevent the firing of.

Referring to FIGS. 75-78, the lockout mechanism 4300 for surgical staple fastening and cutting instruments interacts with the drive train 4302 of the launch system 4056. The lockout mechanism 4300 includes an electromechanical lockout including a latch 4304 that can be transitioned between a lock configuration with the drive system 4302 and an unlock configuration with the drive system 4302. In the unlock configuration, as illustrated in FIG. 77, the drive train 4302 can move forward to deploy staples within the tissue and / or to disconnect the tissue. In the lock configuration exemplified in FIG. 76, the drive system 4302 is prevented from moving forward because the staple cartridge is not attached to the carrier 4022 or the attached staple cartridge is used.

As illustrated in FIG. 75, the drive train 4302 includes a hole 4306 configured to receive the latch 4304 when the latch 4304 is in the locked configuration. The electrical circuit 4308 is configured to selectively shift the latch 4304 between the locking and unlocking configurations. The electric circuit 4308 includes an electric magnet 4310 configured to selectively shift the lockout mechanism 4300 between the lock and unlock configurations. The electric circuit 4308 further includes a power source 4312 and a power relay 4314 configured to selectively transmit energy to power the electric magnet 4310. Feeding the electric magnet 4310 shifts the lockout mechanism 4300 from the lock configuration to the unlock configuration. In an alternative embodiment, feeding the electric magnet 4310 can shift the lockout mechanism 4300 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

The electric magnet 4310 selectively moves the latch 4304 between a first position where the latch 4304 is at least partially positioned within the hole 4306 and a second position where the latch 4304 is outside the hole 4306. It is configured to let you. In other words, the electric magnet 4310 selects the latch 4304 between the first position where the latch 4304 interferes with the advance of the drive system 4302 and the second position where the latch 4304 allows the advance of the drive system 4302. It is configured to move in a targeted manner. In an alternative embodiment, the drive train of the launch system 4056 comprises a protrusion or latch configured to be received within a hole in the corresponding structure that is operably attached to the electric magnet 4310. In such an embodiment, the electric magnet 4310 is configured to selectively move the structure containing the hole between the first position and the second position. Corresponding structures, including latches and holes, have been described in connection with the lockout mechanism 4300, but it is understood that other mechanical fitting members may be used.

As illustrated in FIG. 75, the lockout mechanism 4300 moves between, for example, a first compression configuration as exemplified in FIG. 76 and a second compression configuration as exemplified in FIG. 77. Further included is a piston 4315 with an urging member such as a spring 4316 which is possible. In the second compression configuration, the spring 4316 lifts or maintains the latch 4304 from its engagement with the drive train 4302, as illustrated in FIG. 77. When the spring 4316 is allowed to return to the first compression configuration, the latch 4304 is also returned to engage the drive train 4302, as illustrated in FIG.

In addition to the above, a permanent magnet 4318 is attached to the latch 4304. Alternatively, the latch 4304, or at least a portion thereof, may be made of a ferromagnetic material. When the electric circuit 4308 activates the electric magnet 4310, the permanent magnet 4318 is attracted towards the electric magnet 4310 to urge or compress the spring 4316. In addition, the permanent magnet 4318 lifts or shifts the latch 4304 from its engagement with the drive train 4302, as illustrated in FIG. 77. However, when the electric circuit 4308 disables the electric magnet 4310, the urging force of the spring 4316 engages the permanent magnet 4318 and the latch 4304 with the latch 4304 as illustrated in FIG. 76 with the drive train 4302. , Return them to their original position.

Referring to FIG. 78, the safety mechanism 4347 of the surgical stapler and cutting instrument may include a processor 4052 and / or a controller 4050 which may include one or more storage media such as memory 4054. By executing the instruction code stored in the memory 4054, the processor 4052 may control the activation and / or invalidation of the lockout mechanism 4300. Processor 4052 may receive an input 4320 as to whether the staple cartridge is attached to the carrier 4022 and / or whether the attached staple cartridge is used. Depending on the input received, the processor 4052 may activate or disable the lockout mechanism 4300 to allow or prevent the launch system 4056 from being used to perform a staple firing stroke.

80-82B generally illustrate a motor-driven surgical fastening and cutting instrument 4500. As illustrated in FIGS. 80 and 81, the surgical instrument 4500 comprises a handle assembly 4502, a shaft assembly 4504, and a power supply assembly 4506 (“power supply”, “power pack” or “battery pack”). include. The shaft assembly 4504 includes an end effector 4508, which is configured to act as an end cutter for clamping, cutting, and / or stapling tissue, but in other cases, others. Various types of end effectors, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, drug / gene therapeutic devices, ultrasonic devices, RF devices, and / or laser devices for various types of surgical devices. End effectors can be used. Some RF devices include US Pat. No. 5,403,312 issued April 4, 1995, the title of the invention "ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATTIC DEVICE", and US Patent Application No. 12/031 filed February 14, 2008. , 573, the title of the invention, "SURGICAL FASTENING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

Primarily with reference to FIGS. 81-82B, the handle assembly 4502 can be used with a plurality of interchangeable shaft assemblies such as, for example, the shaft assembly 4504. Such interchangeable shaft assemblies may include surgical end effectors, such as the end effector 4508, which may be configured to perform one or more surgical tasks or procedures, for example. An example of a suitable replaceable shaft assembly is US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 782,866, filed March 14, 2013, wherein the entire disclosure is incorporated herein by reference, the title of the invention "CONTROLL SYSTEM". It is disclosed in "OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT".

Primarily with reference to FIG. 81, the handle assembly 4502 may include a housing 4510 that houses a handle 4512 that may be configured to be gripped, operated, and actuated by a clinician. However, it will be appreciated that various arrangements of the various forms of interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein can also be effectively used in connection with robotic controlled surgical systems. Let's do it. Accordingly, the term "housing" also applies to generate at least one control motion that can be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their respective equivalents. It may include a housing or similar part of a robotic system that accommodates or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system configured as such. For example, the interchangeable shaft assembly disclosed herein is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 118,241, title of the invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATTBLE STAPLE". DEPLOYMENT ”, may be used in conjunction with various robot systems, instruments, components, and methods disclosed in current US Pat. No. 9,072,535.

Referring again to FIG. 81, the handle assembly 4502 operably supports a plurality of drive systems therein, the drive system being the corresponding portion of the replaceable shaft assembly operably attached to the handle assembly. Can be configured to generate and apply various control movements. For example, the handle assembly 4502 operably supports a first or closed drive system, which is a shaft assembly while operably attached to or coupled to the handle assembly 4502. Used to apply the closing and opening movements to the 4504. The handle assembly 4502 operably supports a launch drive system configured to apply the launch motion to the corresponding portion of the interchangeable shaft assembly mounted therein.

Primarily with reference to FIGS. 82A and 82B, the handle assembly 4502 includes a motor 4514 controlled by a motor control circuit 4515 and used by the launch system of the surgical instrument 4500. The motor 4514 can be, for example, a DC brushed drive motor having a maximum rotation speed of about 25,000 RPM. Alternatively, the motor 4514 may include a brushless motor, a cordless motor, a synchronous motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable electric motor. The motor control circuit 4515 may include an H-bridge field-effect transistor (FET) 4519, as exemplified in FIGS. 82A and 82B. The motor 4514 is powered by a power assembly 4506 (FIGS. 82A and 82B) that can be releasably mounted on the handle assembly 4502 to supply control power to the surgical instrument 4500. The power assembly 4506 includes batteries that may include several battery cells connected in series that can be used as a power source to power the surgical instrument 4500. The battery cells of the power assembly 4506 can be replaceable and / or rechargeable. In at least one example, the battery cell can be a lithium ion battery that is separably connectable to the power assembly 4506.

The shaft assembly 4504 includes a shaft assembly controller 4522 that communicates with the power management controller 4516 via an interface, while the shaft assembly 4504 and the power supply assembly 4506 are coupled to the handle assembly 4502. The interface is a corresponding shaft to allow telecommunications between the shaft assembly controller 4522 and the power management controller 4516 while the shaft assembly 4504 and power assembly 4506 are coupled to the handle assembly 4502. A first interface portion 4525 containing one or more electrical connectors for connection engagement with the assembly electrical connector, and one or for connection engagement with the corresponding power assembly electrical connector. Includes a second interface portion 4527 that may include two or more electrical connectors. One or more communication signals may be transmitted through the interface to communicate one or more power requirements of the attached interchangeable shaft assembly 4504 to the power management controller 4516. Accordingly, the power management controller modulates the power output of the battery of the power assembly 4506 according to the power requirements of the attached shaft assembly 4504, as described in more detail below. One or more electrical connectors include a switch that can be activated after the mechanical connection engagement of the handle assembly 4502 with the shaft assembly 4504 and / or the power supply assembly 4506, thereby the shaft assembly controller. Allows telecommunications between the 4522 and the power management controller 4516.

The interface may be one or more between the power management controller 4516 and the shaft assembly controller 4522 by routing such communication signals via the main controller 4517 present in the handle assembly 4502. Facilitates the transmission of communication signals. Alternatively, the shaft assembly 4504 and the power supply assembly 4506 are connected to the handle assembly 4502, while the interface is between the power management controller 4516 and the shaft assembly controller 4522 via the handle assembly 4502. Direct line communication may be facilitated.

The main controller 4517 can be any single-core or multi-core processor, such as that known as the Texas Instruments brand name ARM Corpex. The surgical instrument 4500 may include a power management controller (4516), such as a safety microcontroller platform, with two microcontroller-based families such as the TMS570 and RM4x, also known as Texas Instruments brand name Hercules ARM Cortex R4. .. Nevertheless, other alternatives suitable for microcontrollers and safety processors can be used without limitation. Safety processors are specifically configured to provide highly integrated safety characteristics, especially for IEC 61508 and ISO 26262 safety marginal applications, while providing scalable performance, connectivity and memory choices. obtain.

The main controller 4517 can be the LM4F230H5QR available from Texas Instruments. Texas Instruments' LM4F230H5QR improves performance over 40MHz, with on-chip memory up to 40MHz, 256KB single-cycle flash memory or other non-volatile memory, among other mechanisms readily available from product datasheets. Prefetch buffer for, 32KB of single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) with StellarisWare® software, and 2KB. Electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, and one or more analogs. Equipped with a quadrature encoder input (QEI) and one or more 12-bit analog digital converters (Analog-to-Digital Converter, ADC) with 12 analog input channels. ARM Cortex-M4F processor core. The present disclosure should not be limited to this contextual condition.

The power assembly 4506 includes a power management circuit, which comprises a power management controller 4516, a power modulator 4538, and a current sensing circuit 4536. While the shaft assembly 4504 and the power supply assembly 4506 are coupled to the handle assembly 4502, the power management circuit is configured to modulate the power output of the battery based on the power requirements of the shaft assembly 4504. For example, the power management controller 4516 may be programmed to control the power modulator 4538 of the power output of the power assembly 4506, and the current sensing circuit 4536 provides feedback on the power output of the battery to the power management controller 4516. , Used to monitor the power output of the power assembly 4506, so that the power management controller 4516 can adjust the power output of the power assembly 4506 to maintain the desired output.

It should be noted that one or more of the controllers of the present disclosure may include one or more processors and / or memory units capable of storing some software modules. A particular module and / or block of the surgical instrument 4500 may be described as an example, but it will be appreciated that a larger or smaller number of modules and / or blocks may be used. In addition, various cases may be described as modules and / or blocks for ease of description, such modules and / or blocks being one or more, eg, processors, digital. Hardware components such as signal processors (DSPs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), circuits, registers, and / or software components such as programs, subroutines, logic, and so on. / Or it can be implemented by a combination of hardware and software components.

The surgical instrument 4500 may include an output device 4542, including one or more devices for providing sensory feedback to the user. Such devices may include visual feedback devices (eg, LCD display screens, LED indicators), audible feedback devices (eg, speakers, buzzers) or tactile feedback devices (eg, tactile actuators). The output device 4542 may include a display 4543 that may be included in the handle assembly 4502. The shaft assembly controller 4522 and / or the power management controller 4516 may provide feedback to the user of the surgical instrument 4500 via the output device 4542. The interface 4524 may be configured to connect the shaft assembly controller 4522 and / or the power management controller 4516 to the output device 4542. The reader will understand that the output device 4542 can be integrated with the power supply assembly 4506 instead. Under such circumstances, communication between the output device 4542 and the shaft assembly controller 4522 can be achieved via the interface 4524 while the shaft assembly 4504 is coupled to the handle assembly 4502.

Having described the surgical instrument 4500 in general terms, the various electrical / electronic components of the surgical instrument 4500 will be described in detail next. For convenience, any reference herein to the surgical instrument 4500 should be construed to refer to the surgical instrument 4500 shown in connection with FIGS. 80-82B. With reference to FIG. 79, circuit 4700 is illustrated. The circuit 4700 is configured to control an electric surgical instrument such as the surgical instrument 4500 exemplified in FIG. 80. Circuit 4700 is configured to control the movement of one or more of the electrosurgical instruments 4500. Circuit 4700 includes a safety processor 4704 and a main or primary processor 4702. The safety processor 4704 and / or the primary processor 4702 is configured to interact with one or more additional circuit elements to control the operation of the electrosurgical instrument 4500. The primary processor 4702 includes a plurality of inputs coupled to one or more circuit elements. The circuit 4700 can be a partitioning circuit. In various cases, the compartmentalized circuit 4700 may be implemented by any suitable circuit, such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) within an electrosurgical instrument 4500.

The term processor, as used herein, is the function of any microprocessor, microprocessor, or central processing unit (CPU) of a computer in one integrated circuit or up to several integrated circuits. It should be understood to include other basic computing devices incorporated above. A processor is a versatile programmable device that accepts digital data as input, processes the data according to instructions stored in memory, and provides the results as output. This is an example of sequential digital logic as it has internal memory. The processor operates on numbers and symbols represented in binary notation.

The primary processor 4702 is any single-core or multi-core processor, such as that known by the Texas Instruments ARM Cortex trade name. The safety processor 4604 can be a safety microcontroller platform with two microcontroller-based families, such as the TMS570 and RM4x, also known by Texas Instruments under the trade name Hercules ARM Portex R4. Nevertheless, other alternatives suitable for microcontrollers and safety processors can be used without limitation. In one embodiment, the safety processor 4704 provides highly integrated safety characteristics while providing scalable performance, connectivity, and memory choices, and thus, among other things, the safety limits of IEC 61508 and ISO 26262. It can be specifically configured for the application.

The primary processor 4702 can be the LM 4F230H5QR available from Texas Instruments. Texas Instruments' LM4F230H5QR improves performance over 40MHz, with on-chip memory of up to 40MHz, 256KB single-cycle flash memory or other non-volatile memory, among other mechanisms readily available from product datasheets. Prefetch buffer for, 32KB single-cycle serial random access memory (SRAM), internal read-only memory (ROM) with StellarisWale® software, and 2KB electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (2KB). EEPROM), one or more pulse width modulation (PWM) modules, one or more analog-to-digital encoder inputs (QEI), and one or more analog input channels. An ARM Cortex-M4F processor core with two or more 12-bit analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). Other processors may be readily substituted, and therefore this disclosure should not be limited to this context. Examples of electrosurgical instruments, including primary and safety processors, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, US Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272574, filed March 26, 2014, entitled ". POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP ACTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROLL ".

The safety processor 4704 is configured to implement a watchdog function for one or more movements of the electrosurgical instrument 4500. In this regard, the safety processor 4704 uses the watchdog function to detect a malfunction of the primary processor 4702 and recover from it. During normal operation, the safety processor 4704 monitors the hardware failure or program error of the primary processor 4702 and initiates a corrective operation (s). Corrective operation may include putting the primary processor 4702 in a safe state and restoring normal system operation. In at least one embodiment, the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 operate in redundant mode.

The primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 are housed within the handle portion of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500. At least one of the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 communicates with the shaft processor 4706 via the interface 4707. The shaft processor 4706 is configured to receive input from a cartridge detection system 4709 configured to detect whether an unused staple cartridge is attached to an electrosurgical staple clamp and cutting instrument 4500. ..

Circuit 4700 further includes motor 4714 operably coupled to the launching member of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500. One or more rotational position encoders 4471 may be configured to provide feedback to the primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 with respect to the operating state of the motor 4714. A motor driver including a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (PWM) 4711 controls the power supply from the power source 4713 to the motor 4714. The MOSFET 4711 is controlled by an AND logic gate 4717. The high output of the AND logic gate 4717 activates the MOSFET 4711 and activates the motor 4714. The high output of the AND logic gate 4717 depends on receiving inputs from the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704, as illustrated in FIG. 79. The primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 are configured to independently determine whether or not to enable the operation of the motor 4714. In other words, the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 are configured to independently determine whether or not the launching member of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 is allowed to advance.

If a match occurs in which both the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 determine that the motor 4714 is activated, the AND logic gate 4717 produces a high output to activate the MOSFET 4711, thereby activating the motor 4714. It allows the launcher to move forward and then launches the electrosurgical staple clasp and cutting instrument 4500. However, there is a discrepancy that only one of the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 determines that the motor 4714 is activated, while the other of the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 determines that the motor 4714 is not activated. If so, the AND logic gate 4717 does not produce high power, and then the MOSFET 4711 remains ineffective.

In addition to the above, the determination as to whether or not to operate the motor 4714 is at least partially via the interface 4707 with respect to whether or not an unused staple cartridge is attached to the electrosurgical staple fastener and cutting instrument 4500. It depends at least partially on the information communicated to the primary processor 4702 and / or the staple processor 4704. As described in more detail elsewhere herein, the cartridge detection system 4709 determines, among other things, whether an unused staple cartridge is attached to an electrosurgical staple clamp and cutting instrument 4500. Can be used for.

Referring to FIGS. 79A and 79B, the translatable staple launching member 4460 of the staple fastening assembly 4400 of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 is located in the proximal, unlaunched or starting position and in the distal position. It is movable along the staple launch path 4463 to and from the launch position or end position. For example, the detectable magnetic element 4461 is mounted on a staple launching member 4460 that travels along, or at least substantially along, the staple firing path 4463. In at least one example, the magnetic element 4461 is a permanent magnet made of, for example, iron, nickel, and / or other suitable material. The cartridge detection system 4709 comprises a first or proximal sensor 4401'and a second or distal sensor 4401, which include a magnetic element 4461, which together with a staple firing member 4460, is a staple firing path. It is configured to detect when moving along 4436. The first sensor 4401'and the second sensor 4401 each include a Hall effect sensor, but the sensors 4401'and 4401 may include any suitable sensor. The sensors 4401'and 4401 output a voltage that varies according to their corresponding distance from the magnetic element 4461 (a high voltage is output when the distance is small, and a low voltage is output when the distance is large).

In addition to the above, the cartridge detection system 4709 comprises, among other things, a sensor circuit 4708 that includes, for example, a voltage source 4403 that communicates with the sensors 4401'and 4401 that supplies power to the sensors 4401'and 4401. The sensor circuit 4708 further comprises a first switch 4405'that communicates with the first sensor 4401'and a second switch 4405 that communicates with the second sensor 4401. In at least one example, the switches 4401'and 4401 each include a transistor such as a FET. The outputs of the sensors 4401'and 4401 are connected to the central (gate) terminals of the switches 4405'and 4405, respectively. Prior to the firing stroke of the staple firing member 4460, the output voltage from the sensors 4401', 4401 is so high that the first switch 4405'and the second switch 4405 are in the closed state.

When the magnetic element 4461 passes near the first sensor 4401', the voltage output of the first sensor 4401' is sufficient to change the first switch between the closed and open states. Similarly, the voltage output of the second sensor 4401 is sufficient to cause the second switch 4405 to change between the closed and open states when the magnetic element 4461 passes near the second sensor 4401. be. When both switches 4405'and 4405 are in the open state, a ground potential is applied to the math amplifier circuit 4406. The math amplifier circuit 4406 communicates with the input channel of the processor 4706 of the motor controller, and when a ground potential is applied to the math amplifier circuit 4406, the processor 4706 receives a ground signal from the circuit 4406.

When processor 4706 receives a ground signal from circuit 4406, processor 4706 can determine that the staple firing stroke has been completed and that the staple cartridge located within the staple assembly 4400 has been fully used. can. Other embodiments are envisioned in which the sensor system detects the partial firing stroke of the staple firing member 4460 and is configured to feed the processor 4706 with a signal indicating that the staple cartridge is at least partially used. .. In either case, the motor controller may be configured to prevent the staple firing member 4460 from making another firing stroke until the staple cartridge has been replaced with an unused cartridge. In at least one example, in addition to the above, the sensor system detects whether the used cartridge has been removed from the stapled assembly and / or whether the unused cartridge has been assembled into the stapled assembly. It is equipped with a sensor configured to do so.

In addition to the above, the sensor system can be configured to detect whether the staple launcher 4460 has receded along the receding path 4462. In at least one example, the magnetic element 4461 can be detected by the sensor 4401 when the magnetic element 4461 retracts along the path 4462 and modifies the second switch 4405 to return to the closed state. Similarly, the magnetic element 4461 can be detected by the sensor 4401'when the magnetic element 4461 retracts along the path 4436 and causes the first switch 4405'to return to the closed state. By closing the switches 4405 and 4405', the voltage polarity from the battery 4403 is applied to the circuit 4406 so that the processor 4706 receives the Vcc signal from the circuit 4406 on its input channel.

In addition to the above, the cartridge detection system 4709 includes a cartridge circuit 4724. The cartridge circuit 4624 is similar to the cartridge circuit 4024 (FIG. 59) in many respects. For example, the cartridge circuit 4724 includes a trace element 4734 that is transitioned between the used and disconnected state of the staple cartridge and the unused and intact state of the staple cartridge. As illustrated in FIG. 79, the trace element 4734 is positioned in parallel with the first resistance element 4737 and in series with the second resistance element 4737', resulting in sensor failure or circuit interruption. Ensure that the detection is not just a lack of signal output. One or more sensors, including, but not limited to, voltage and / or current sensors, are used to detect the transition between the current state and / or the disconnected state and the intact state. obtain.

As illustrated in FIG. 79, accurate communication between processors 4702, 4704 and 4706 is attached to the data communication to detect accidental changes in the communicated data that may occur during data transmission. It can be ensured by using a security code such as a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) which is an error detection code. Blocks of data entering these systems get the attached short check values based on the remainder of the polynomial division of their content. In certain cases, two parameter sets with separate CRCs are loaded into the shaft processor 4706, one is normal and the other has parameters such as, for example, the STOP command and 0 mm transverse length.

In at least one case, the primary processor 4702 tracks the state of the trace element 4734 via the shared asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) pin, and the position of the motor 4714 via the rotational position encoder 4741, for example. do. The primary processor 4702 may be configured to prevent the motor 4714 from operating if the primary processor 4702 detects that the trace element 4734 has been disconnected.

In various cases, the primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 may have the movement of the launcher detected by the proximal sensor 4401'after the disconnection state of the trace element 4734 is detected, as described above. It may be configured to prevent the motor 4714 from operating. The movement of the launching member and the detection of the cut state of the trace element 4734 can be performed by the cartridge detection system 4709 as described above. The shaft processor 4706 may be configured to send a STOP command to the primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 when a disconnected state of the trace element 4734 is detected. Communication between the shaft processor 4706, the primary processor 4702, and / or the safety processor 4704 can be, for example, CRC communication. In various cases, the safety processor 4704 is configured to monitor the STOP command and enter sleep mode once the STOP command is received. In various cases, the safety processor 4704 is configured to stop the motor 4714 if the calculated CRC, calculated from the received data, does not match the received CRC. The CRC verification module can be used by the safety processor 4704 to calculate the CRC from the received data and compare the calculated CRC with the received CRC.

In various cases, the primary processor 4702, the safety processor 4704, and / or the shaft processor 4706 may include a security code generator module and / or a security code verification module. The security code can be generated by CHECK-SUM, HASH, or other suitable protocol. The security code generation module and / or the security code verification module may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. Ensuring the validity of communication between the primary processor 4702, the safety processor 4704, and / or the shaft processor 4706 is important because fluid can interfere with signals communicated between such processors.

As mentioned above, the shaft processor 4706 may be configured to send a STOP command to the primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 via CRC communication. In one example, the shaft processor 4706 includes, for example, a security code generator configured to generate a security code and attach the security code to the STOP command sent to the primary processor 4702. The primary processor 4702 includes a security code verification module configured to verify the integrity of the transmission received from the shaft processor 4706. The security code verification module is configured to calculate the security code based on the received STOP command data and compare the calculated security code with the security code received together with the STOP command data. If the primary processor 4702 affirms the integrity of the received message, the primary processor 4702 may activate, for example, stop mode 4688.

In certain cases, safety processor 4704 may be tasked with ensuring the integrity of the message sent to primary processor 4702. In one example, the safety processor 4704 includes a security code verification module configured to verify the integrity of the message transmission from the shaft processor 4706. The security code verification module of the safety processor 4704 is configured to calculate the security code based on the received STOP command data and compare the calculated security code with the security code received together with the STOP command data. If the safety processor 4704 affirms the integrity of the received message, the safety processor 4704 may activate, for example, stop mode 4688 (FIG. 86).

Referring here to FIG. 83, the circuit 4600 is configured to control an electric surgical instrument such as the surgical instrument 4500 exemplified in FIG. 80. Circuit 4600 is configured to control the movement of one or more of the electrosurgical instruments 4500. Circuit 4600 includes a safety processor 4604 and a main processor or primary processor 4602, which are in many respects similar to the safety processor 4704 and the primary processor 4702, respectively. The safety processor 4604 and / or the primary processor 4602 is configured to interact with one or more additional circuit elements to control the operation of the electrosurgical instrument 4500. The primary processor 4602 includes a plurality of inputs coupled to one or more circuit elements. The circuit 4600 can be a partitioning circuit. In various cases, the compartmentalized circuit 4600 may be implemented by any suitable circuit, such as a printed circuit board assembly (PCBA) within an electrosurgical instrument 4500.

Circuit 4600 includes a feedback element in the form of a display 4609. The display 4609 includes a display connector coupled to the primary processor 4602. The display connector connects the primary processor 4602 to the display 4609 via one or more display driver integrated circuits. The display driver integrated circuit may be integrated with the display 4609 and / or may be located separately from the display 4609. The display 4609 may include any suitable display, such as an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, a liquid-crystal display (LCD), and / or any other suitable display. .. In some embodiments, the display 4609 is coupled to the safety processor 4604. Further, the circuit 4600 further comprises, for example, one or more user control units 4611.

The safety processor 4604 is configured to implement a watchdog function for one or more movements of the electrosurgical instrument 4500. In this regard, the safety processor 4604 uses the watchdog function to detect a malfunction of the primary processor 4602 and recover from it. During normal operation, the safety processor 4604 is configured to monitor the hardware failure or program error of the primary processor 4602 and initiate a corrective operation (s). Corrective operation may include putting the primary processor 4602 in a safe state and restoring normal system operation.

In at least one embodiment, the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 operate in redundant mode. The primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 are coupled to at least the first sensor. The first sensor measures the first characteristic of the surgical instrument 4500. The primary processor 4602 is configured to determine the output based on the measured first characteristic of the surgical instrument 4500 and compare the output to a predetermined value. Similarly, the safety processor 4604 is configured to separately determine the output based on the measured first characteristic of the surgical instrument 4500 and compare the output to the same predetermined value. The safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 are configured to provide signals indicating the values of their determined outputs. Appropriate safety measures may be invoked when either the safety processor 4604 or the primary processor 4602 shows an unacceptable value. In certain cases, the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 receive their inputs from separate sensors configured to separately measure the first characteristic of the surgical instrument 4500. In certain cases, the surgical instrument 4500 is allowed to continue in normal operating mode when at least one of the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 exhibits an acceptable value. For example, when at least one of the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 exhibits an acceptable value, the launch system 4056 may be able to complete the launch stroke of the surgical instrument 4500. In such cases, the discrepancy between the values or results determined by the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 may be due, for example, to a failed sensor or calculation error.

As illustrated in FIG. 83, the linear position encoders 4640 and 4461 are coupled to the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604, respectively. The position encoder 4640 provides velocity and position information about the launching member of the electrosurgical instrument 4500 to the primary processor 4602 via an analog-to-digital converter 4623a (ADC). Similarly, the position encoder 4640 provides velocity and position information about the launching member of the electrosurgical instrument 4500 to the safety processor 4604 via a separate analog-to-digital converter 4623b (ADC). The primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 are configured to execute an algorithm for calculating at least one acceleration of the launching member based on the information derived from the linear position encoders 4640 and 4461. The acceleration of the launching member can be determined based on the following equation.

式中、ａは、発射部材の現在の加速度であり、ｖ_２は、時間ｔ_２で記録された発射部材の現在の速度であり、ｖ_１は、前回の時間ｔ_１での発射部材の前回の速度である。

In the equation, a is the current acceleration of the launching member, v ₂ is the current velocity of the launching member recorded at time t ₂ , and v ₁ is the previous launching member at the previous time t ₁ . The speed of.

The acceleration of the launching member can also be determined based on the following equation.

式中、ａは、発射部材の現在の加速度であり、ｄ_２は、時間ｔ_２の間に初期位置と現在位置との間で発射部材によって移動された距離であり、ｄ_１は、時間ｔ_１の間に初期位置と前回の位置との間で発射部材によって移動された距離である。

In the equation, a is the current acceleration of the launching member, d ₂ is the distance traveled by the launching member between the initial position and the current position during time t ₂ , and d ₁ is the time t. It is the distance moved by the launching member between the initial position and the previous position during ₁ .

The primary processor 4602 is further configured to compare, for example, a determined acceleration value with a predetermined threshold acceleration that may be stored in a memory unit communicating with the primary processor 4602. Similarly, the safety processor 4604 is configured to compare, for example, its determined acceleration value with a predetermined threshold acceleration that may be stored in a memory unit communicating with the safety processor 4604. If the primary processor 4602 and / or the safety processor 4604 determine that the determined acceleration value exceeds a predetermined threshold acceleration, for example, power supply to the motor 4514 is stopped and / or the launch system 4056 is reset. Appropriate safety measures such as Alternatively, in certain cases, the surgical instrument 4500 is allowed to continue in normal operating mode when at least one of the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 exhibits an acceptable acceleration value. For example, when at least one of the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 reports an acceptable acceleration, the launch system 4056 may be able to complete the launch stroke of the surgical instrument 4500. In such cases, the discrepancy between the values or results determined by the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 may be due, for example, to a failed sensor or calculation error.

As described above, the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 are further configured to, for example, compare the determined acceleration value with a predetermined threshold acceleration that may be stored in the memory unit. The threshold acceleration can be determined from the threshold force corresponding to the fault load of the lockout mechanism of the launch system 4056. In certain cases, the fault load is known to be about 100 lbf. In such cases, Newton's second law of motion can be used to determine the corresponding threshold acceleration based on the following equation.
F = m × a
In the formula, F is a threshold force and m is a mass exerting a force.

The acceleration of the launch member of the launch system 4056 can also be assessed by tracking the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the launch stroke. The load on the launch member driven by the motor 4514 through the launch stroke is directly related to the current drawn by the motor 4514. Therefore, the load experienced by the launch member can be assessed by measuring the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the launch stroke. Newton's second law of motion is used to calculate the acceleration of a launcher based on the load experienced by the launcher, which can be evaluated by tracking the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the launch stroke. obtain.

As illustrated in FIG. 84A, the sensor 4617 may be coupled to the motor control circuit 4619 to measure the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the firing stroke. In at least one case, the sensor 4617 can be, for example, a current sensor or a Hall effect sensor. The readings of the sensor 4617 may be amplified using the buffer amplifier 4625, digitized using the ADC 4623, and transmitted to the primary processor 4602 (FIG. 83) and the safety processor 4604 (FIG. 83), the primary processor 4602. And the safety processor 4604 is configured to determine the corresponding load on the launcher and to execute an algorithm that determines the acceleration of the launcher based on Newton's second law of motion.

Referring to FIG. 84A, the sensor 4617 may be coupled to the motor control circuit 4619 to measure the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the firing stroke. During normal operation of motor 4514, the reading of sensor 4617 is expected to be within the normal predetermined range. As illustrated in FIG. 84B, the normal range can have, for example, a minimum threshold of about 0.5 A and a maximum threshold of about 5.0 A. Sensor readings above the maximum threshold, or sensor readings above zero but below the minimum threshold, may indicate a failure of the sensor 4617. The maximum threshold can be any value selected from, for example, from about 4.0 A to, for example, 6.0 A. The minimum threshold can be any value selected from, for example, from about 0.4 A to, for example, 0.6 A.

As mentioned above, the readings of the sensor 4617 may be amplified using the buffer amplifier 4625, digitized using the ADC 4623 and transmitted to the primary processor 4602, which the primary processor 4602 reads from the sensor 4617. Is configured to execute an algorithm that determines if is within a predetermined normal range. If it is determined that the reading of sensor 4617 exceeds a predetermined normal range, appropriate safety measures may be taken by the primary processor 4602. In one example, the primary processor 4602 may allow the firing stroke to be completed in safety mode, as the reading of the anomalous motor current is likely due to the fault sensor 4617. In another example, the primary processor may stop powering the motor 4514 and warn the user to use the mechanical emergency measures mechanism. The primary processor 4602 may alert the user via the display 4058 to contact the service department to replace the fault sensor 4617. The primary processor 4602 may provide instructions regarding the procedure for replacing the fault sensor 4617.

In certain cases, the safety processor 4604 is configured to receive a reading from another sensor, independent of the sensor 4617, configured to separately measure the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the firing stroke. It may be configured. Similar to the primary processor 4602, the safety processor 4604 may be configured to execute an algorithm to determine if the reading of the other sensor is within a predetermined normal range. If at least one of the primary processor 4602 and the secondary processor 4604 determines that the current drawn by the motor 4514 is within a predetermined normal range, the motor 4514 will be allowed to complete the firing stroke. .. In such cases, the discrepancy between the values or results determined by the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 is due, for example, to a failed sensor or calculation error.

In certain cases, the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 may be configured to track or determine at least one acceleration of the launching member of the launching system 4056 using different techniques. If at least one of the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 determines that the acceleration of the launching member is within the normal range, the launching member is allowed to complete the firing stroke. The discrepancy between the acceleration values determined by the safety processor 4604 and the primary processor 4602 may be due to a fault sensor or a calculation error. This confirms an unnecessary interruption of the launch system 4056 due to a fault sensor or calculation error.

In one example, the primary processor 4602 may be configured to determine or track the acceleration of the launching member of the launching system 4056 using a first technique. For example, the primary processor 4602 may be configured to determine or track the acceleration of the launching member by measuring the current drawn by the motor 4514 using the sensor 4617. The primary processor 4602 may then execute an algorithm for calculating at least one acceleration of the launching member based on the input from the sensor 4617, as described above. On the other hand, the safety processor 4604 may be configured to determine or track the acceleration of the launching member using a second technique different from the first technique. For example, the safety processor 4604 may be configured to determine or track the same acceleration of the launch member by using a position encoder 4640 that detects the position of the launch member during the launch stroke. The safety processor 4604 may execute an algorithm to calculate at least one acceleration of the launching member based on the input from the position encoder 4640 as described above. The calculated acceleration can be compared to a given normal range. In this case, the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 agree that their respective acceleration values are within the normal range, allowing the launching member to complete the firing stroke. However, if the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 agree that their respective acceleration values are out of the normal range, then appropriate safety measures may be taken by the primary processor 4602, eg, as described above. If there is a discrepancy between the results determined by the primary processor 4602 and the safety processor 4604 with respect to the acceleration of the launching member, the launching member is allowed to complete the firing stroke.

Launching the electrosurgical cutting and staple fastener 4500 is a mechanical component in which the firing trigger is compressed by the user and a closed configuration from the open configuration of the motor control circuit 4515 when the firing trigger is compressed by the user. With an electrical component, through which a current flows through the motor 4514 in response to the transition to. The trigger detection control circuit 4627 (FIG. 84A) of the electrosurgical cutting and stapler 4500 provides a firing trigger Hall effect sensor 4629 configured to detect the transition between the open and closed configurations of the firing trigger 4550. include. In addition, the trigger detection control circuit 4627 also includes a verification trigger Hall effect sensor 4631 configured to detect the current drawn by the motor 4514 when the firing trigger is transitioned to the closed configuration. Sensors 4629 and 4631 are in signal communication with the primary processor 4602 and / or the safety processor 4604. The readings of the sensors 4629 and 4631 are amplified using the buffer amplifier 4625, digitized using the ADC 4623 and sent to the primary processor 4602 and / or the safety processor 4604 for analysis and comparison.

During normal operation, the transmitted readings of sensors 4629 and 4631 provide a redundant guarantee that the mechanical and electrical components involved in the electrosurgical cutting and stapling device 4500 launch are functioning properly. Provided to the primary processor 4602. If the sensor 4629 indicates that the firing trigger is being compressed, while the sensor 4631 indicates that no current is being drawn by the motor 4514, the primary processor 4602 indicates that the sensor 4631 is functioning properly. It can be determined that it is not. If the sensor 4629 indicates that the firing trigger is being compressed, while the sensor 4631 indicates that the current is being drawn by the motor 4514, the primary processor 4602 indicates that the sensor 4629 is not functioning properly. Can be determined. In one aspect, the primary processor 4602 may allow the completion of the firing stroke in safety mode because the discrepancy is due to the fault sensor. In another example, the primary processor may stop powering the motor 4514 and warn the user to use, for example, a mechanical emergency response mechanism. The primary processor 4602 may alert the user via the display 4058 to contact the service department to replace the fault sensor. The primary processor 4602 may provide instructions regarding the procedure for replacing the fault sensor.

As illustrated in FIG. 83, the primary processor 4602 and / or the safety processor 4604 signal communicate with one or more linear position encoders 4640 and / or one or more rotational position encoders 4641. The rotation position encoder 4461 is configured to identify the rotation position and / or speed of the motor 4514. In addition, the linear position encoder 4640 is configured to identify the position and / or velocity of the launching member driven by the motor 4514 during the firing stroke of the surgical cutting and stapler 4500.

During normal operation, the reading of the rotation position encoder 4461 correlates with the reading of the linear position encoder 4640. This is because the motor 4514 is operably coupled to the launch member so that the rotation of the motor 4514 advances the launch member during the launch stroke. The reading of the rotational position encoder 4461 may not correlate with the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 when the advancing speed of the launching member is outside the tolerance band when measured by the linear position encoder 4640. Upon detecting the loss of correlation between the readings of the rotary position encoder 4461 and the readings of the linear position encoder 4640, appropriate safety measures may be invoked by the primary processor 4602 and / or the safety processor 4604.

In various cases, for example, an input member such as a sensor or switch is positioned in parallel with the first resistance element and in series with the second resistance element to detect sensor failure or circuit interruption. Can simply ensure that the signal output is not lost. Referring to FIG. 85, the electrical circuit 4650 includes a stroke start switch 4652 positioned in parallel with the first resistance element 4654 and in series with the second resistance element 4656. In addition, the electrical circuit 4650 includes a stroke end switch 4662 positioned in parallel with the first resistance element 4664 and in series with the second resistance element 4666. Examples of stroke start and end switches are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, US Pat. No. 8,210,411, issued July 3, 2012, the title of the invention, "MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT." Is explained in.

The electrical circuit 4650 also includes, for example, a voltage source 4660 that provides an input voltage of 5 volts. As illustrated in FIG. 85, the output voltages 4569 and 4669 may be processed by the buffer amplifiers 4625 and ADC 4623 to produce digital outputs that can be communicated to the primary processor 4602. The primary processor 4602 is configured to execute an algorithm that evaluates one or more states of the circuit 4650 based on the received digital output. If the output voltage 4569 is equal to the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4658 is disconnected. If the output voltage 4569 is equal to half the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4658 is connected but the stroke start switch 4652 is in the open configuration. If the output voltage 4569 is equal to one-third of the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4658 is connected and the stroke start switch 4652 is in the closed configuration. If the output voltage 4569 is equal to zero, the primary processor 4602 determines that the circuit 4650 has a short circuit. In certain cases, determining that the output voltage 4569 is equal to zero indicates a failure of the stroke end switch 4652. In certain cases, determining that the output voltage 4569 is equal to the input voltage indicates a failure of the stroke end switch 4652.

If the output voltage 4669 is equal to the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4668 is disconnected. If the output voltage 4669 is equal to half the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4668 is connected but the stroke end switch 4662 is in the open configuration. If the output voltage 4669 is equal to one-third of the input voltage of the voltage source 4660, the primary processor 4602 determines that the connection wiring 4668 is connected and the stroke end switch 4662 is in a closed configuration. If the output voltage 4669 is equal to zero, the primary processor 4602 determines that the circuit 4650 has a short circuit. In certain cases, determining that the output voltage 4669 is equal to zero indicates a failure of the stroke end switch 4662. In certain cases, determining that the output voltage 4669 is equal to the input voltage indicates a failure of the stroke end switch 4662.

Referring now to FIG. 86, the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 responds to input from or lacking the above-mentioned position encoders, sensors, and / or switches of the surgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500. A fault response system 4681 may be provided that includes several modes of operation that may be selectively engaged. As illustrated in FIG. 86, the warning mode 4682 is activated when the reading of the sensor 4617, which represents the current drawn by the motor 4514, exceeds a predetermined normal range. Warning mode 4682 is also activated when a failure of at least one of the stroke start switch 4652 and the stroke end switch 4662 is detected.

Warning mode 4682 is limited to providing warnings to users of the electrosurgical cutting and stapling instrument 4500 without taking additional steps to stop or modify the firing stroke progression or parameters. Warning mode 4682 is activated in a situation where it is not necessary to stop the firing stroke. For example, warning mode 4682 is activated when the detected error is considered to be due to a fault sensor or switch. Warning mode 4682 uses the user interface 4058 to deliver visual, audio, and / or tactile warnings.

The electrosurgical cutting and stapling instrument 4500 further includes a warning / backup system mode 4680. Warning / Backup system mode 4680 is activated if the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 does not correlate with the reading of the rotating position encoder 4461. Like warning mode 4682, warning / backup system mode 4680 uses the user interface 4058 to deliver visual, audio, and / or tactile warnings. In addition, the warning / backup system mode 4680 activates the backup system. During normal operation, normal mode 4648 uses a primary system that includes a primary sensor and primary control means. However, if an error is detected that approves the activation of the warning / backup system mode 4680, a backup system containing a secondary sensor and / or a secondary control means is used in place of the primary system.

In addition to the above, the electrosurgical cutting and stapling instrument 4500 also (i) if the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 does not correlate with the reading of the rotary position encoder 4461, and (ii) the stroke start switch 4652 and Also included is limp mode 4686, which is a failure response mode or state triggered when a failure of at least one of the stroke end switches 4662 is detected. Like warning mode 4682, limp mode 4686 uses the user interface 4058 to deliver visual, audio, and / or tactile warnings. In addition, limp mode 4686 slows the progression of the firing stroke.

In certain cases, limp mode 4686 may reduce the current rotational speed of motor 4514 by any percentage selected from the range of about 75% to about 25%. In one example, limp mode 4686 can reduce the current rotational speed of motor 4514 by 50%. In one example, limp mode 4686 can reduce the current rotational speed of motor 4514 by 75%. The limp mode 4686 may reduce the current torque of the motor 4514 by any percentage selected from the range of about 75% to about 25%. In one example, limp mode 4686 can reduce the current torque of motor 4514 by 50%.

In addition to the above, the electrosurgical cutting and staple fastener 4500 also (i) stroke start switch 4652 and stroke if (i) the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 does not correlate with the reading of the rotary position encoder 4461. If at least one failure of the termination switch 4662 is detected, and if the reading of the sensor 4617, which represents the current drawn by (iii) motor 4514, exceeds a predetermined normal range, it will be triggered. It also includes a failure response mode or a stop mode 4688 which is a state. Like warning mode 4682, stop mode 4688 uses the user interface 4058 to deliver visual, audio, and / or tactile warnings. In addition, when activated, the stop mode 4688 disables or stops the motor 4514, leaving only the mechanical emergency measures system available for use to retract the launcher to the starting position. The stop mode 4688 uses the user interface 4058 to provide the user with instructions to operate the emergency response system. Examples of suitable emergency measures systems are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0272569, filed March 26, 2014, entitled "FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR". It is described in "SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS".

Staples and Cutting Instruments for Electric Surgical The mode of operation identified above for the 4500 is stapled and cutting instruments for electrosurgical surgery, even if some of the inputs, switches, and / or sensors fail the integrity check. Create a redundant electronic control path that enables the operation of the 4500. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 86, triggering limp mode 4686 requires detecting two independent and separate failures, and triggering stop mode 4688 requires three independent and separate failures. It is necessary to detect the failure. However, a single failure triggers only warning mode 4682. In other words, the fault response system 4681 of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 is configured to expand to a safer mode of operation in response to the spread of detected faults.

The fault response system 4681 may be implemented using integrated and / or discrete hardware elements, software elements, and / or a combination thereof. Examples of integrated hardware elements include processors, microprocessors, controllers, integrated circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), digital signal processors (DSPs), and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). , Logic gates, registers, semiconductor elements, chips, microchips, chipset, microprocessors, system-on-chip (SoC), and / or system-in-package (SIP). Examples of individual hardware elements may include circuits and / or circuit elements (eg, logic gates, field effect transistors, bipolar transistors, registers, capacitors, inductors, relays, etc.). In other embodiments, the one or more controllers of the present disclosure may include, for example, a hybrid circuit comprising individual and integrated circuit elements or components on one or more substrates. ..

In at least one case, the fault response system 4681 may be implemented by a circuit comprising a controller with one or more processors (eg, microprocessor, microcontroller) coupled to at least one memory circuit. At least one memory circuit stores machine executable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to execute a machine instruction that implements one or more of the functions performed by the fault response system 4681. do. The processor may be any one of the many single or multi-core processors known in the art. The memory circuit may include volatile and non-volatile storage media. The processor may include an instruction processing unit and an arithmetic unit. The instruction processing unit may be configured to receive instructions from one memory circuit.

In at least one embodiment, the fault response system 4681 may comprise a finite state machine comprising a combination logic circuit configured to implement one or more of the functions in which the fault response system 4681 has been implemented. In one embodiment, the fault response system 4681 may include a finite state machine that includes a sequence logic circuit. The order logic circuit may include, for example, a combination logic circuit and at least one memory circuit. At least one memory circuit may store the current state of the finite state machine. A sequence or combinational logic circuit may be configured to implement one or more of the functions performed by one or more of the controllers of the present disclosure, eg, a controller. In certain cases, the order logic circuit may be synchronous or asynchronous.

In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 86, the fault response system 4681 is implemented at least partially using some logic gates. The logic circuit 4691 may be configured to deliver a binary input to the AND logic gate 4690 with respect to whether the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 correlates with the reading of the rotation position encoder 4461. The second input of the AND gate 4690 is delivered via the OR logic gate 4692 that receives the input from the stroke start switch 4652 and the stroke end switch 4662. If a failure of at least one of the stroke start switch 4652 and the stroke end switch 4662 is detected, the OR logic gate 4692 delivers a high output to the AND logic gate 4690. If the logic 4691 and the OR logic gate 4692 deliver the high power to the AND logic gate 4690, the AND logic circuit 4690 delivers the high power that activates limp mode 4686.

In addition to the above, the logic inversion gate or NOT logic gate 4694 maintains normal mode 4648 in the absence of high power from the AND logic gate 4690. The AND gate 4696 activates stop mode 4688 upon receiving a high power from the AND logic gate 4690 and a high power from the high power from the logic circuit 4698 configured to monitor the current drawn by the motor 4514. Responsible for letting. The logic circuit 4698 receives a reading of the sensor 4617, which represents the current drawn by the motor 4514, and delivers a high output indicating a sensor failure when such reading exceeds a predetermined normal range. It is composed of. The OR logic gate 4699 is configured to activate the warning mode 4682 when it receives a high output from one of the logic circuit 4698 and the OR logic gate 4692.

Referring to FIG. 87, an alternative embodiment of the fault response system 4681'is illustrated. The fault response system 4681'is similar to the fault response system 4681 in many respects and includes a normal mode 4648, a limp mode 4686, and a stop mode 4688. The fault response system 4681'includes an AND logic gate 4690, an OR logic gate 4692, and an AND logic gate 4674. The logic circuit 4670, which may be configured to implement the determination block, is configured to receive input from the AND logic gate 4690. The logic circuit 4670 is configured to activate limp mode 4686 when the logic circuit 4670 receives a positive input from the AND logic gate 4690. However, if the logic circuit 4670 does not receive a positive input from the AND logic gate 4690, normal mode 4648 remains in effect.

In addition to the above, the fault response system 4681'includes a second logic circuit 4672 that may be configured to implement a determination block. The second logic circuit 4672 is configured to receive an input from the AND logic gate 4674. The AND logic gate 4674 outputs affirmatively when the limp mode 4686 is valid and the logic circuit 4698 determines that the reading of the sensor 4617 representing the current drawn by the motor 4514 exceeds a predetermined normal range. To deliver. However, if the AND logic gate 4674 does not deliver the output to the logic circuit 4672, the limp mode 4686 remains in effect.

Referring to FIG. 88, the fault response system 5001 is similar to the fault response system 4681 in many respects and includes a limp mode 4686 and a stop mode 4688. The fault response system 5001 determines that (i) the trigger detection control circuit 4627 does not correlate the readings of the firing trigger hole sensor 4629 and the verification trigger hall effect sensor 4631, and (ii) (a) the stroke start switch. If 4652 is in a closed configuration (FIG. 85) or (ii) (b) the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 does not correlate with the reading of the rotary position encoder 4461, limp the electrosurgical stapler and cutting instrument 4500. It is configured to transition from mode 4686 to stop mode 4688.

As illustrated in FIG. 88, the fault response system 5001 has an OR logic gate configured to receive a positive input 5008 if the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 does not correlate with the reading of the rotating position encoder 4461. include. The OR logic gate 5004 is also configured to receive a positive input 5006 from the electrical circuit 4650 (FIG. 85) when the start stroke switch 4652 is in a closed configuration. The fault response system 5001 is configured to receive a positive input 5012 from the trigger detection control circuit 4627 when the trigger detection control circuit 4627 determines that the readings of the firing trigger hole sensor 4629 and the verification trigger hall effect sensor 4631 do not correlate. It further includes a configured AND logic gate 5010. The OR logic gate 5004 is configured to deliver a positive input to the AND logic gate 5010 in response to receiving one of inputs 5006 and 5008.

The fault response system 5001 further includes a logic circuit 5002 configured to implement a determination block. The logic circuit 5002 is configured to maintain limp mode 4686 in the absence of a positive output of the AND logic gate 5010. The logic circuit 5002 is further configured to transition from limp mode 4686 to stop mode 4688 in the presence of a positive output from logic gate 5010.

Referring to FIG. 89, an alternative embodiment of the fault response system 5021 is illustrated. The fault response system 5021 is similar to the fault response system 4681 in many respects and includes a normal mode 4648 and a stop mode 4688. The fault response system 5021 is configured to maintain the motor surgical stapler and cutting instrument 4500 in normal mode 4648 until three separate faults are detected, as described in more detail below. Upon detecting such a failure, the failure response system 5021 activates stop mode 4688.

In addition to the above, the fault response system 5021 includes an AND logic gate 5024, an OR logic gate 5026, and an AND logic gate 5028. The logic circuit 5022, which may be configured to implement the determination block, is configured to receive input from the AND logic gate 5024. The logic circuit 5022 is configured to activate stop mode 4688 when the logic circuit 5022 receives a positive input from the AND logic gate 5024. However, if the logic circuit 5024 does not receive a positive input from the AND logic gate 5024, normal mode 4648 remains in effect.

As illustrated in FIG. 89, the AND logic gate 5024 is coupled to the logic circuit 4691, which determines whether the reading of the linear position encoder 4640 correlates with the reading of the rotating position encoder 4461. It may be configured to deliver a binary input to the AND logic gate 5024. The second input of the AND gate 5024 is delivered via the AND logic gate 5026 coupled to the logic circuit 4698. The logic circuit 4698 is configured to deliver a binary output to the AND logic gate 5026 with respect to whether the reading of the sensor 4617 representing the current drawn by the motor 4514 exceeds a predetermined normal range. The second input of the AND gate 5026 is delivered via the OR logic gate 5028, which receives inputs from the stroke start switch 4652 and the stroke end switch 4662. If a failure of at least one of the stroke start switch 4652 and the stroke end switch 4662 is detected, the OR logic gate 5028 delivers a high output to the AND logic gate 4690.

Therefore, the fault response system 5021 protects against malfunctions based on sensor and / or switch errors by requiring that multiple sensor and / or switch errors be detected prior to activating stop mode 4688. This ensures that a single point failure, such as a sensor and / or switch failure, does not in itself render the motor surgical stapler and cutting instrument 4500 inoperable. The fault response system 5021 requires multiple inputs indicating a fault before activating stop mode 4688. When one failure is reported, for example, a lack of correlation between the readings of the linear position encoder 4640 and the readings of the rotational position encoder 4461, the failure response system 5021 before activating stop mode 4688. It is configured to look for failures of other related or related inputs such as, for example, a motor current input, an input from the stroke start switch 4652, and an input from the stroke end switch 4662.

In at least one case, the first and second circuits are stapled for motor surgery and staple fastening for motor surgery, such as operating parameters associated with the performance of the launching member during the firing stroke of the cutting instrument 4500. And the operating parameters of the cutting instrument 4500 are configured to be evaluated or detected separately. In at least one case, the second circuit output is to verify the output of the first circuit if the output of the first circuit is identified as an error within the control loop of the firing stroke, and / or. It can be used as an alternative.

For example, the primary processor 4702 may be configured to track the first operating parameter by assessing the current drawn by the motor 4514 during the firing stroke, and the safety processor 4704 may rotate the motor 4514 during the firing stroke. It may be configured to track a second motion parameter by assessing the correlation between motion and linear motion of the launcher. Under normal operating conditions, the current drawn by the motor 4514 corresponds to the speed of the launching member and / or falls within the normal predetermined range. Further, under normal operating conditions, the rotational motion of the motor 4514 correlates with the linear motion of the launching member. Therefore, the primary processor 4702 and the safety processor 4704 separately track the separate operating parameters of the electrosurgical stapler and cutting instrument 4500, which provides feedback on the performance of the launcher within the launch stroke control loop.

The primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 may be configured to produce an output indicating whether or not their respective operating parameters are within normal operating conditions. In one example, the output of the safety processor 4704 is identified within the control loop of the firing stroke as an error or abnormal operating condition in the evaluation of the operating parameter of the safety processor 4704, while the second operating parameter is the normal operating condition. Can be used to verify the output of the primary processor 4702 and / or as an alternative.

The output of the primary processor 4702 and / or the safety processor 4704 includes activating the operating mode of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 selected from the group including normal mode, warning mode, limp mode, and stop mode. obtain. In one example, the output of the primary processor 4702 may include invoking a fault response mode such as limp mode or stop mode, but if the output of the safety processor 4704 includes invoking / continuing the normal operating mode. Normal mode is used as an alternative to fault response mode. Therefore, the electrosurgical staple and cutting instrument 4500 will continue to operate in normal mode despite the errors identified based on the evaluation of the operating parameters tracked by the primary processor 4702.

In one example, the fault response system has a first fault response mode when a first error is detected, a second fault response mode when a second error is detected in addition to the first error, a second. It may be configured to activate a third fault response mode when a third error is detected in addition to the first error and the second error. In at least one case, the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 remains operating in the first fault response mode and the second fault response mode and is disabled in the third fault response mode.

In one example, the fault response system may be configured to increase or scale the fault response in order to adapt to the spread of the detected fault. In one example, the fault response system is configured to transition from a first fault response mode to a second response fault response mode in response to an increase in detected errors, with at least one detected error. Includes sensor failure and / or at least one switch failure. In one example, the fault response system is configured to initiate a transition from a first fault response mode to a second fault response mode in response to an increase in detected errors, where the detected errors are predetermined. Includes at least one measurement outside the normal range of.

In one example, the fault response system is configured to activate the first fault response mode when a first error is detected, when a second error is detected in addition to the first error. , It is configured to shift from the first failure response mode to the second failure response mode. In one example, the fault response system is configured to activate the first fault response mode when a first plurality of errors are detected, and the first when a second plurality of errors are detected. The second plurality of errors are more than the first plurality of errors, and the second plurality of errors are the first plurality. Includes the error. In one example, the second fault response mode involves more restrictions on the operation of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument 4500 than the first fault response mode.

Example 1-A surgical instrument comprising an anvil and an elongated channel, wherein at least one of the anvil and the elongated channel is movable to capture tissue between the anvil and the elongated channel. .. The elongated channel comprises a plurality of first electrical contacts and a plurality of electrical connectors. The plurality of electrical connectors further comprises a plurality of second electrical contacts so that the electrical connector is spring-loaded so that a gap is maintained between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. Has been done. Surgical instruments also include staple cartridges that can be releasably attached to elongated channels. The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body containing a plurality of staple cavities and, in addition, a plurality of staples that can be deployed within the tissue from the staple cartridge. The staple cartridge also comprises a plurality of third electrical contacts, the attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel moving the electrical connector, bridging the gap to the second electrical contact, and the first. Electrically connect to electrical contacts.

Example 2-The surgical instrument according to Example 1, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a storage medium configured to store information about the staple cartridge. The storage medium is accessible by the surgical instrument via at least one of the third electrical contacts when the cartridge body is attached to the elongated channel.

Example 3-The surgical instrument according to Example 1 or 2, wherein the storage medium comprises a memory unit.

Example 4-The surgical instrument according to Example 1, 2 or 3, wherein the information comprises a staple cartridge identifier.

Example 5-The surgical instrument according to Example 1, 2, 3 or 4, wherein the information further includes a used state of the staple cartridge.

Example 6-The surgical instrument according to Example 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, wherein the electrical connector is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.

The surgical instrument according to Example 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the third electrical contact is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.

Example 8-Surgical Example 5, 6 or 7, wherein the connector comprises a wear mechanism configured to remove at least a partial removal of the liquid repellent coating during attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel. Instrument.

Example 9-The surgical instrument of Example 8, wherein at least one of the wear mechanisms comprises a raised dome shape.

Example 10-Surgical instrument according to Example 1, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge state circuit portion comprising a trace element configured to break during deployment of the staple.

Example 11-described in Example 1, wherein the elongated channel comprises a compressible seal configured to resist fluid ingress between the staple cartridge and the elongated channel when the staple cartridge is attached to the elongated channel. Surgical instruments.

Example 12-A staple cartridge for use with an end effector of a surgical instrument, the staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body that is releasably attachable to the end effector and comprises a plurality of staple cavities. The staple cartridge also contains a plurality of staples that are at least partially stored within the staple cavity, plus a cam member that is movable from the starting position to the cartridge body in order to deploy the staples from the staple cavity. Be prepared. The staple cartridge further comprises an electrical circuit comprising a plurality of external electrical contacts configured to be electrically coupled to the corresponding electrical contacts of the end effector when the cartridge body is attached to the end effector. The electrical circuit also comprises a storage medium configured to store information about the staple cartridge, the storage medium via at least one of the external electrical contacts when the cartridge body is attached to the end effector. Is accessible. The electrical circuit further comprises a cartridge state circuit portion including a trace element configured to break during movement of the cam member.

Example 13-The staple cartridge of Example 12, wherein the storage medium comprises a memory unit.

Example 14-The staple cartridge according to Example 12 or 13, wherein the information comprises an identifier for the staple cartridge.

Example 15-The staple cartridge according to Example 12, 13 or 14, wherein the information includes a used state of the staple cartridge.

Example 16-The staple cartridge of Example 12, wherein the external electrical connector is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.

Example 17-A staple cartridge for use with an end effector of a surgical instrument, the staple cartridge comprising a cartridge body that is releasably attachable to the end effector and comprises a plurality of staple cavities. The staple cartridge is also movable with respect to the cartridge body from the starting position in order to deploy the staples from the staple cavity during the firing stroke, as well as multiple staples stored at least partially within the staple cavity. With threads. The staple cartridge further includes a detection means for determining the used state of the staple cartridge and a storage medium configured to store the used state of the staple cartridge.

18-The staple cartridge of Example 17, wherein the detection means comprises an electrical circuit configured to transition between a closed configuration and an open configuration by a thread during the firing stroke.

Example 19-The staple cartridge according to Example 17 or 18, wherein the detection means comprises a Hall effect sensor.

20-The staple cartridge of Example 17, 18, or 19, wherein the detection means comprises an electrical circuit comprising a conductive bridge configured to be cut during the firing stroke.

Example 21-An electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge is a housing, a plurality of staple cavities, plus a plurality of staples that can be deployed from the staple cavities during a firing stroke. , Equipped with staples and cutting instruments for electric surgery. The staple cartridge also comprises a launching member that is movable during the firing stroke to deploy staples from the staple cavity and a motor that is operably connected to the launching member, the motor from the staple cavity during the firing stroke. It is configured to generate at least one rotational motion to move the launcher to deploy the staples. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument also causes a first operational error of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument when the movement of the launching member and the rotational movement of the motor exceed a predetermined correlation during the firing stroke. It comprises a fault response system comprising a first circuit configured to detect. The fault response system is also configured to detect a second operational error in the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument if a fault is detected in at least one of the stroke start switch and stroke end switch. It also has a second circuit. The failure response system further comprises a control circuit configured to activate the first failure response mode when a first operation error is detected, the control circuit in addition to detecting the first operation error. When a second operation error is detected, a second failure response mode different from the first failure response mode is activated.

Example 22-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 21, wherein the first fault response mode is a warning mode.

23-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 21 or 22, wherein the second fault response mode is limp mode.

Example 24-The staple fastening and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 21, 22, or 23, wherein the motor operates at low speed in limp mode.

Example 25-The electric surgical staple fastening and cutting instrument according to Example 21, 22, 23, or 24, wherein the launching member is moved at low speed in limp mode.

Example 26-A third circuit configured to detect a third operational error in the stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use when the current drawn by the motor during the firing stroke exceeds a predetermined range. 21. The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use.

Example 27-When the control circuit detects a third operation error in addition to the detection of the first operation error and the second operation error, the first failure response mode and the second failure response mode 26. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument according to Example 26, which is configured to activate a different third fault response mode.

Example 28-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 27, wherein the third fault response mode is more restrictive than the second fault response mode.

Example 29-An electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge is a housing, a plurality of staple cavities, plus a plurality of staples that can be deployed from the staple cavities during a firing stroke. , Equipped with staples and cutting instruments for electric surgery. The staple cartridge also comprises a launching member that is movable during the firing stroke to deploy staples from the staple cavity and a motor that is operably connected to the launching member, the motor from the staple cavity during the firing stroke. It is configured to generate at least one rotational motion to move the launcher to deploy the staples. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument detects the first operational error of the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument when the movement of the launching member and the rotational movement of the motor exceed a predetermined correlation during the firing stroke. It further comprises a fault response system comprising a first circuit configured to do so. The fault response system is also configured to detect a second operational error in the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument if a fault is detected in at least one of the stroke start switch and stroke end switch. It also has a second circuit. The fault response system further comprises a controller, including a memory and a storage medium containing the program instructions, if the processor detects a first operational error when the program instructions are executed by the processor. A second failure that is different from the first failure response mode when the first failure response mode is activated and the processor detects a second operation error in addition to the detection of the first operation error. Activate response mode.

Example 30-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 29, wherein the first failure response mode is a warning mode.

Example 31-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 29 or 30, wherein the second failure response mode is limp mode.

Example 32-The staple fastening and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 29, 30, or 31, wherein the motor operates at low speed in limp mode.

Example 33-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 29, 30, 31, or 32, wherein the launching member is moved at low speed in limp mode.

Example 34-A third circuit configured to detect a third operational error in the stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use when the current drawn by the motor during the firing stroke exceeds a predetermined range. 29. The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use.

Example 35-A first failure when the storage medium is executed by the processor and the processor detects a third operation error in addition to the detection of the first operation error and the second operation error. 29. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument according to Example 29, comprising a program instruction that activates a third failure response mode that is different from the response mode and the second failure response mode.

Example 36-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 35, wherein the third fault response mode is more restrictive than the second fault response mode.

Example 37-A fault response system for use with electrosurgical staple clasps and cutting instruments configured to deploy multiple staples within a firing stroke, the surgical staples during the firing stroke. A first circuit configured to detect a first operational error in the fastening and cutting instrument and a second operational error in the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument during the firing stroke. A fault response system comprising a second circuit, wherein the second operating error is different from the first operating error. The fault response system also comprises a third circuit configured to detect a third operational error in the electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument during the firing stroke, where the third operational error is the first operation. It is different from the error and the second operation error. The failure response system further comprises a control circuit configured to activate the first failure response mode when a first operation error is detected, the control circuit in addition to detecting the first operation error. When a second operation error is detected, a second failure response mode different from the first failure response mode is activated. The control circuit is different from the first failure response mode and the second failure response mode when a third operation error is detected in addition to the detection of the first operation error and the second operation error. It is configured to activate the error response mode of.

Example 38-The failure response system according to Example 37, wherein the first failure response mode is a warning mode.

Example 39-The failure response system according to Example 37 or 38, wherein the second failure response mode is a limp mode.

40-The fault response system according to Example 37, 38 or 39, wherein the third fault response mode is more restrictive than the second fault response mode.

Example 41-An electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge is a housing, a plurality of staple cavities, plus a plurality of staples that can be deployed from the staple cavities during a firing stroke. , Equipped with staples and cutting instruments for electric surgery. The staple cartridge also comprises a launching member that is movable during the firing stroke to deploy the staples from the staple cavity and a motor that is operably coupled to the firing member. The motor is configured to generate at least one rotational motion to move the launching member to deploy the staples from the staple cavity during the firing stroke. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument also comprises a primary controller comprising a primary processor and a primary storage medium for storing the first program instruction, when the first program instruction is executed by the primary processor. , The primary processor is made to determine the first acceleration of the launching member during the firing stroke and to compare the first acceleration with a predetermined threshold acceleration. The electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument also further comprises a secondary controller, including a secondary processor and a secondary storage medium for storing the second program instruction, the second program instruction being the secondary processor. When executed by, causes the secondary processor to determine a second acceleration of the launching member during the firing stroke and to compare the second acceleration with a predetermined threshold.

Example 42-Electric surgery according to Example 41, wherein the first acceleration is determined based on the distance between the first position and the second position, which is moved by the launching member during the firing stroke. For staple fastening and cutting equipment.

Example 43-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 41 or 42, further comprising a sensor configured to detect the launching member in a second position.

Example 44-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 43, wherein the sensor is a linear position encoder.

Example 45-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 43 or 44, wherein the sensor is telecommunications with the primary processor.

Example 46-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 41, 42, 43, 44, or 45, wherein the second acceleration is determined separately by a secondary processor based on distance.

Example 41-Implementation and cutting of electrosurgical staples according to Example 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, or 46, further comprising another sensor configured to detect the launching member in a second position. Instrument.

Example 48-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 47, wherein the other sensor is a linear position encoder.

Example 49-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 47 or 48, wherein the other sensor is telecommunications with the secondary processor.

Example 50-The primary processor activates the fault response mode when (i) the first acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold and (ii) the second acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold. 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, or 49 of an electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument configured in.

51-Electric surgical staple fastening and cutting instrument according to Example 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50, wherein the fault response mode comprises stopping the motor. ..

Examples 52-The primary processor is configured to activate a fault response mode when at least one of a first acceleration and a second acceleration exceeds a predetermined threshold, Examples 41, 42. , 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, or 48 for electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instruments.

Example 53-The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgery according to Example 52, wherein the fault response mode comprises stopping the motor.

Example 41. The 41st embodiment, wherein the second program instruction causes the secondary processor to further generate an output based on a comparison of the second acceleration with respect to a predetermined threshold and to communicate the output to the primary controller. Staple fastening and cutting instruments for electric surgery.

Example 55-An electrosurgical staple fastening and cutting instrument comprising a staple cartridge, wherein the staple cartridge is a housing, a plurality of staple cavities, plus a plurality of staples that can be deployed from the staple cavities during a firing stroke. , Equipped with staples and cutting instruments for electric surgery. Staple fastening and cutting instruments for electrosurgical use also include a launching member that is movable during the firing stroke to deploy the staples from the staple cavity and a motor that is operably coupled to the launching member. The motor is configured to generate at least one rotational motion to move the launching member to deploy the staples from the staple cavity during the firing stroke. Staple fastening and cutting instruments for electrosurgical are configured to evaluate a first motion parameter indicating the performance of the launcher during the launch stroke and to generate a first output based on the evaluation of the first motion parameter. It further comprises a primary circuit including the primary processor. Staple fastening and cutting instruments for electrosurgical use further include a second circuit including a safety processor configured to evaluate a second operating parameter indicating the performance of the launching member during the firing stroke, the second operating parameter. Is different from the first operating parameter and is configured to generate a second output based on the evaluation of the second operating parameter, the second output being the first output in the firing stroke control loop. Used to verify.

Example 56-The second output is when it is determined that the first operating parameter indicates the anomalous performance of the launching member during the firing stroke, while the second operating parameter indicates the normal performance of the launching member. The stapled and cutting instrument for electrosurgical use according to Example 55, which is used as an alternative to the first output.

Example 57-1 for motor surgery according to Example 55, wherein the first output is configured to activate an operating mode selected from the group including normal mode, warning mode, limp mode, and stop mode. Staple fastening and cutting equipment.

Example 58-The motor according to Example 55 or 57, wherein the second output is configured to activate an operating mode selected from the group including normal mode, warning mode, limp mode, and stop mode. Surgical staples and cutting instruments.

Example 59-The stapled and cutting instrument for motor surgery according to Example 55, wherein the first output is communicated to the safety processor in a message containing the first output and a security code.

Example 60-The staple fastening and cutting instrument for motor surgery according to Example 59, wherein the security code comprises a cyclic redundancy check (CRC).

While many of the surgical instrument systems described herein are powered by electric motors, the surgical instrument systems described herein can operate in any suitable manner. In various cases, the surgical instrument system described herein can be operated, for example, by a manually operated trigger. In certain cases, the motors disclosed herein may include parts of a robotic control system. In addition, any of the end effectors and / or tool assemblies disclosed herein can be used with the robotic surgical instrument system. For example, US Patent Application No. 13 / 118,241, the title of the invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS", currently US Pat. No. 9,072,535 are some examples of robotic surgical instrument systems. Is disclosed in more detail.

The surgical instrument system described herein has been described in connection with the deployment and modification of staples, but the embodiments described herein are not limited thereto. Various embodiments of deploying fasteners other than staples, such as clamps or tacks, are also conceivable. In addition, various embodiments are conceived that utilize any suitable means for sealing the tissue. For example, end effectors according to various embodiments may include electrodes configured to heat and seal the tissue. Also, for example, the end effector according to a particular embodiment can apply vibration energy to seal the tissue.

The entire disclosure below is incorporated herein by reference.
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U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 524,049 filed on June 15, 2012, title of invention "ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE", now U.S. Patent No. 9,101,358,
U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,025 filed on March 13, 2013, title of invention "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM", currently U.S. Patent No. 9,345,481,
U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 800,067 filed on March 13, 2013, title of invention "STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM", now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263552,
US Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955 filed on January 31, 2006, the title of the invention "SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSE TRIGGER LOCKING MEMHANISM", and
US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194 filed on April 22, 2010, title of invention "SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR", currently US Patent No. 8,308,040.

Although various devices have been described herein with specific embodiments, modifications and variations may be implemented for those embodiments. Specific features, structures, or properties can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Thus, the particular features, structures, or properties illustrated or described with respect to one embodiment are, indefinitely, all or in part with the features, structures, or properties of one or more other embodiments. It may be combined. Also, although the material is disclosed for a particular component, other materials may be used. Further, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced with a plurality of components in order to perform a given function (s), and a plurality of components may be replaced with a single component. You may replace it. The above description and the claims below are intended to include all such modifications and variations.

The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be discarded after a single use, or can be designed to be used multiple times. However, in either case, the device may be readjusted for reuse after at least one use. The readjustment can include, but is not limited to, a disassembly step of the device, a subsequent cleaning or replacement step of a particular part of the device, and a subsequent reassembly step of the device. Specifically, the readjustment facility and / or the surgical team may disassemble the device, clean and / or replace certain parts of the device, and then reassemble the device for subsequent use. Can be done. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that readjustment of the device can utilize various techniques for disassembly, cleaning / replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques, and the resulting readjustment, are all within the scope of this application.

The devices disclosed herein can be processed prior to surgery. First, new or used utensils may be obtained and cleaned as needed. The instrument may then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic bag or TYVEK bag. The vessel and instrument can then be placed in a radiation field that can penetrate the vessel, such as gamma rays, X-rays, and / or high energy electrons. Radiation can kill bacteria on instruments and in containers. The sterilized instrument may then be stored in a sterilized container. The sealed container can keep the instrument sterile until it is opened in a medical facility. The device can also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to β-rays, gamma-rays, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide plasma, and / or water vapor.

Although the present invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, this application shall include any variation, use, or adaptation of the invention that uses its general principles.

All patents, publications, or other disclosures, in whole or in part thereof, which are incorporated by reference herein, are existing definitions, descriptions, or other disclosures in which the incorporated material is described in this disclosure. It is incorporated herein only to the extent that it is consistent with the disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosures expressly set forth herein shall supersede any contradictory statements incorporated herein by reference. Any content that is inconsistent with the current definitions, views, or other disclosures described herein, or parts thereof, shall be incorporated herein by reference, but the reference content and the current disclosure content. It shall be referred to only to the extent that there is no contradiction with.

[Implementation mode]
(1) It is a surgical instrument and
Anvil and
The elongated channel, at least one of the anvil and the elongated channel, is movable to capture tissue between the anvil and the elongated channel, the elongated channel.
With multiple first electrical contacts,
A plurality of electrical connectors comprising a plurality of second electrical contacts so that the electrical connector maintains a gap between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. With elongated channels, including spring-loaded, multiple electrical connectors, and
The staple cartridge comprises a staple cartridge that can be releasably attached to the elongated channel.
A cartridge body with multiple staple cavities and
Multiple staples that can be deployed within the tissue from the staple cavity,
The attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel, including a plurality of third electrical contacts, moves the electrical connector to bridge the gap to the second electrical contact and A surgical instrument that is electrically connected to the first electrical contact.
(2) The staple cartridge comprises a storage medium configured to store information about the staple cartridge, the storage medium being the third electricity when the cartridge body is attached to the elongated channel. The surgical instrument according to embodiment 1, which is accessible by the surgical instrument via at least one of the target contacts.
(3) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 2, wherein the storage medium includes a memory unit.
(4) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 2, wherein the information includes an identifier of the staple cartridge.
(5) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 2, wherein the information includes a used state of the staple cartridge.

(6) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 1, wherein the electrical connector is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.
(7) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 1, wherein the third electrical contact is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.
(8) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 7, wherein the connector comprises a wear mechanism configured to at least partially remove the liquid repellent coating during attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel. ..
(9) The surgical instrument according to embodiment 8, wherein at least one of the wear mechanisms includes a raised dome shape.
(10) The surgical instrument of embodiment 1, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge state circuit portion comprising a trace element configured to break the staple during said deployment.

(11) The elongated channel comprises a compressible seal configured to resist fluid ingress between the staple cartridge and the elongated channel when the staple cartridge is attached to the elongated channel. The surgical instrument according to aspect 1.
(12) A staple cartridge for use with an end effector of a surgical instrument.
A cartridge body that can be releasably attached to the end effector and includes a plurality of staple cavities.
With a plurality of staples stored at least partially in the staple cavity,
A cam member that can be moved from the starting position to the cartridge body in order to deploy the staples from the staple cavity.
The electric circuit is provided with the electric circuit.
A plurality of external electrical contacts configured to be electrically coupled to the corresponding electrical contacts of the end effector when the cartridge body is attached to the end effector.
A storage medium configured to store information about the staple cartridge, the storage medium having at least one of the external electrical contacts when the cartridge body is attached to the end effector. With storage media accessible through
A staple cartridge comprising a cartridge state circuit portion comprising a trace element configured to break during said movement of the cam member.
(13) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 12, wherein the storage medium includes a memory unit.
(14) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 12, wherein the information includes an identifier of the staple cartridge.
(15) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 12, wherein the information includes a used state of the staple cartridge.

(16) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 12, wherein the external electrical connector is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating.
(17) A staple cartridge for use with an end effector of a surgical instrument.
A cartridge body that can be releasably attached to the end effector and includes a plurality of staple cavities.
With a plurality of staples stored at least partially in the staple cavity,
A thread that can be moved from the starting position to the cartridge body to deploy the staples from the staple cavity during the firing stroke.
A detection means for determining the used state of the staple cartridge and
A staple cartridge comprising a storage medium configured to store the used state of the staple cartridge.
(18) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 17, wherein the detection means comprises an electrical circuit configured to transition between a closed configuration and an open configuration by the thread during the firing stroke.
(19) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 17, wherein the detection means includes a Hall effect sensor.
(20) The staple cartridge according to embodiment 17, wherein the detection means comprises an electrical circuit comprising a conductive bridge configured to be cut during the firing stroke.

Claims (11)

It ’s a surgical instrument,
Anvil and
The elongated channel, at least one of the anvil and the elongated channel, is movable to capture tissue between the anvil and the elongated channel, the elongated channel.
With multiple first electrical contacts,
A plurality of electrical connectors comprising a plurality of second electrical contacts so that the electrical connector maintains a gap between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact. With elongated channels, including spring-loaded, multiple electrical connectors, and
The staple cartridge comprises a staple cartridge that can be releasably attached to the elongated channel.
A cartridge body with multiple staple cavities and
Multiple staples that can be deployed within the tissue from the staple cavity,
The attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel, including a plurality of third electrical contacts, moves the electrical connector to bridge the gap to the second electrical contact and A surgical instrument that is electrically connected to the first electrical contact. The staple cartridge comprises a storage medium configured to store information about the staple cartridge, wherein the storage medium is of the third electrical contact when the cartridge body is attached to the elongated channel. The surgical instrument of claim 1, which is accessible by said surgical instrument through at least one of them. The surgical instrument according to claim 2, wherein the storage medium includes a memory unit. The surgical instrument according to claim 2, wherein the information includes an identifier of the staple cartridge. The surgical instrument according to claim 2, wherein the information includes a used state of the staple cartridge. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the electrical connector is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the third electrical contact is at least partially coated with a liquid repellent coating. 7. The surgical instrument of claim 7, wherein the electrical connector comprises a wear mechanism configured to remove the liquid repellent coating at least partially during attachment of the staple cartridge to the elongated channel. The surgical instrument of claim 8, wherein at least one of the wear mechanisms comprises a raised dome shape. The surgical instrument of claim 1, wherein the staple cartridge comprises a cartridge state circuit portion comprising a trace element configured to break the staple during said deployment. 1. The elongated channel comprises a compressible seal configured to resist fluid ingress between the staple cartridge and the elongated channel when the staple cartridge is attached to the elongated channel. The listed surgical instruments.

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