TWI468141B - Pneumatically powered surgical cutting and fastening instrument with audible and visual feedback features - Google Patents

Description

Pneumatic surgical cutting and fastening device with sound and visual feedback characteristics

The present invention relates generally to surgical instruments, and more particularly to pneumatic surgical cutting and fastening devices. The present invention is applicable to conventional endoscopes and open surgical instruments and can be applied to robot-assisted surgery.

Surgical cutting and fastening devices (stapers) have been used in the prior art to create a lengthwise incision in tissue and to apply rows of staples to opposite sides of the incision. Such instruments typically include a pair of cooperating jaw members that are capable of passing through a cannula passage when the device is to be used in an endoscopic or laparoscopic application. One of the jaw members houses a magazine having at least two rows of laterally spaced staples. The other jaw member defines an anvil having a staple forming pocket aligned with the array of staples in the jaw. The appliance includes a plurality of reciprocating wedges that, when driven from the distal end, pass through an opening in the magazine and engage an actuator that supports the staples to perform a firing action of the staples toward the anvil.

Over the years, a number of different methods of actuating cutting and elbow deployment have been developed. For example, U.S. Patent No. 6,978,921, issued to to-S. Other surgical stapling devices that use battery powered motors have been developed. No. 5,954,259 to Viola et al.

Still other surgical staplers are actuated by a source of pressurized gas. No. The cylinder is equipped with a piston assembly that is actuated by pressurized gas entering the cylinder. The piston is configured to act with components located within the elongate tube portion and the handle member to cause deployment of the staple and scalpel in the distal end effector. However, this design uses a complex assembly of components to transfer the motion of the piston mounted on the handle to the components located in the end effector portion of the device. Moreover, when using such a device, there is a risk that the power source will be depleted during the surgical procedure because there is no way to monitor the amount of gas remaining in the gas cartridge. If this occurs during a firing or retraction cycle, such devices lack a device that is easy to replace the depleted container with a new container or auxiliary power source.

Another type of aerodynamic surgical stapling apparatus is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2006/0151567, to the name of the entire disclosure. Such a device utilizes a pneumatic motor or piston system supported in the handle of the device to create a motion and utilize this motion to actuate the end effector. Such a device can be powered by a detachable port or powered by an external source of power such as a hospital's existing high pressure air or gas supply.

Such pneumatic devices that use the helium or container in the handle portion of the device are also limited by the size of the gas cylinder required to store a sufficient volume of pressurized gas to achieve the desired number of actuations of the device at a minimum available pressure. In the past, devices designed for most applications/programs would require a large gas cylinder for their use, or in the case of smaller gas cylinders, such gas cylinders would have unwanted high pressures. In addition, devices that use removable cartridges for unlimited use must be reprocessed and resterilized. These arrangements may significantly change performance and may therefore be less desirable.

There are other problems with conventional pneumatic actuators (endocutter). For example, once the surgeon activates the appliance through a single switch or trigger, the appliance will perform or at least attempt to complete the firing cycle. The firing assembly can then be retracted by the transmission system. Although a surgeon using the device disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2006/0151567 can interrupt the firing cycle through a trigger assembly and/or adjust the flow of air delivered to the device, there is no device for monitoring the progress of the device. Moreover, such conventional devices lack the means to manually retract the tool and firing bar mechanism in the event of loss of operating pressure during the process or interruption. Moreover, such devices lack devices that allow the clinician to manually apply additional force to the drive system to assist the firing mechanism in propelling or slowing the advancement.

Accordingly, there is a need for a pneumatic surgical stapling apparatus that transfers pneumatically generated stapling and firing motions to an end effector assembly without the use of a large collection of components.

Further, there is a need for a pneumatic surgical stapling device having means for the surgeon to control and monitor the progress of the device during firing and retraction cycles.

Still, there is a need for a pneumatic surgical stapling device that provides the surgeon with a tactile and other feedback regarding the forces encountered during firing and the notification that the device has reached its activated position and is ready to be retracted.

There is a need for a pneumatic surgical stapling apparatus that is economical and has the ability to easily replace a power source while limiting the number of times such power sources can be replaced.

Further, there is a need for a method and apparatus for more efficiently storing gas in a gas cylinder for supplying power to a surgical stapling apparatus such that a single gas cylinder can be powered for more use.

Further, there is a need for a pneumatic stapling apparatus having means for manually retracting the cutter and firing rod assembly in the event of a loss or interruption of aerodynamic forces.

Further, there is a need for a device having one or more of the above features and also having an end effector that is selectively movable relative to the handle assembly and/or the long axis assembly portion to which it is attached motion.

Further, there is a need for a device that has one or more of the above features and that is also capable of mating with a removable end effector for use with such disposable device configurations.

In a general view, the present invention is directed to a surgical instrument for use with a pneumatic tool having a firing mechanism operatively supported therein, the firing mechanism being movable between an unactuated position and an activated position mobile. In various embodiments, the surgical instrument includes a pneumatic transmission system operatively associated with the pneumatic tool and configured to respond to a flow of gas from a gas source fluidly coupled to the pneumatic transmission system The pneumatic tool firing mechanism selectively applies at least one striking force that is strong enough to cause the firing mechanism to move from the unactuated position to the actuated position. At least one feedback device is associated with the pneumatic transmission system to provide feedback regarding at least one of: (a) the firing force during the movement of the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position And (b) a relative position of the firing mechanism when the firing mechanism moves between the unactuated position and the activated position.

In another general aspect, the present invention is directed to a surgical instrument that includes a handle assembly and a closed drive train supported by the handle assembly. The closed drive train can be configured to produce a closing motion and an opening motion. A long axle assembly coupled to the handle assembly causes the long axle assembly to communicate with the closed driveline to shift the opening and closing motion. A pneumatic drive system is supported by at least one of the handle assembly and the long axle assembly and is configured to selectively generate at least one of a firing force and a retracting force. The appliance can further include an end effector coupled to the long shaft assembly. In various embodiments, the end effector can include a long channel that is sized to receive a staple within the interior. The end effector can further include an anvil pivotally coupled to the long channel and pivotally responding to the opening and closing motion from the long shaft assembly. In addition, the end effector can include a firing mechanism operatively supported in the long channel and the magazine, and can be applied from one of the transmission systems to the firing force. The unactuated position is moved to an activated position. The firing mechanism may be further responsive to another application of the retraction force from the actuated position to the unactuated position. The surgical instrument can further include at least one feedback device in communication with the transmission system to provide feedback regarding at least one of: (a) the firing force moves the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the transmission system The amount during the actuated position; and (b) the relative position of the firing mechanism when the firing mechanism moves between the unactuated position and the actuated position.

The various embodiments of the present invention are illustrated by way of example, in which FIG

Turning now to the drawings, the same components are labeled with the same numerals, and FIG. 1 shows a surgical stapling and severing device 10 that is capable of achieving the unique benefits of the present invention. The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes a handle assembly 300, a long shaft assembly 100, and an end effector 12 coupled to the long shaft assembly 100. Embodiments of the invention may include a terminal actuator pivotally attached to the long axle assembly 100 and pivoted by a curved cable or belt, such as the invention entitled 〝SURGICAL, filed on January 10, 2006. The disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 11/329,020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. However, as the detailed description of the present invention proceeds, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the various embodiments of the present invention can be successfully implemented with respect to end effector configurations employing different pivoting mechanisms and controls, and as will be described in further detail below It is stated that even an active joint end effector configuration can be successfully utilized.

As shown in FIG. 1, the handle assembly 300 of the appliance 10 can include a closure trigger 302 and a firing trigger 310. It should be understood that an appliance having an end effector for use with different surgical tasks may have a different number or type of triggers or other controllers suitable for operating an end effector. The end effector 12 is shown separated from the handle assembly 300 by a preferably elongated shaft assembly 100. The clinician can utilize a joint controller 200 to effect the articulation of the end effector 12 relative to the shaft assembly 100.

It should be understood that spatial terms such as vertical, horizontal, right, left, etc. assume that the longitudinal axis of the surgical instrument 10 is coaxial with the central axis of the long shaft assembly 100 and that the triggers 302, 310 are at an acute angle from the bottom of the handle assembly 300. The state of the lower extension is proposed with reference to the drawing. However, in practice, the surgical instrument 10 can be oriented at a variety of different angles, and thus these spatial terms are used relative to the surgical instrument 10 itself. Also, the term "proximal" is described in the present specification as a clinician behind the handle assembly 300, and the clinician places the end effector 12 away from himself.

In the present specification, 〝 pressurized gas 〞 means any gas suitable for use in a pneumatic system for use in a sterile environment. Non-limiting examples of such media include compressed air, carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ), nitrogen, oxygen, argon, helium, sodium hydride, propane, isobutane, butane, chlorofluorocarbons, dimethyl ether , methyl ethyl ether, nitrous oxide, hydrofluoroalkane (HFA), such as HFA 134a (1,1,1,2,-tetrafluoroethane) or HFA 227 (1,1,1,2,3 , 3,3-heptafluoropropane).

In the present specification, fluidly coupled means that the elements are coupled via a suitable line or other means to permit pressurized gas to pass therebetween. In the present specification, the 〝 line used in the 〝 gas supply line 〞 or the 〝 return line 〞 is formed by a rigid or flexible conduit, pipe, pipe, etc. for conveying pressurized gas from a component to The appropriate channel for the other component.

In the present specification, a helium gas signal or helium pneumatic transmission signal means a flow from a source of pressurized gas to a gas stream coupled to one or more components of the source of pressurized gas or a component coupled together via a fluid. Air flow between.

In the present specification, the 〝 generally transverse to the longitudinal axis 〞 (where the 〝 longitudinal axis 〞 is the axis of the shaft) refers to a direction that is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. It should be understood, however, that a slight deviation from the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is also substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis.

2 illustrates an exploded assembly view of a pneumatically operated tool assembly or end effector that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention. The pneumatic operating tool assembly 12 illustrated in Figures 1-4 is constructed as an inner cutter. However, as the detailed description of the present invention proceeds, it will be appreciated that a variety of different unique novel transmission configurations of embodiments of the present invention are also contemplated for use in driving other end effectors that are configured to perform other surgical tasks and therefore require Remove, modify, or add components shown in the diagram. Again, it should be understood that the end effector 12 shown in Figures 1-4 can be customized for a particular surgical application.

An end effector that can be used in various embodiments of the present invention is shown in FIG. As shown, the end effector 12 employs an E-beam firing mechanism (〝-tool assembly 〞) 30 that more advantageously controls the terminal in addition to cutting tissue and firing a staple located in one of the barrels. The spacing of the anvil portion of one of the actuators 12 relative to the barrel. The various points of view of the E-beam firing mechanism are mentioned in U.S. Patent No. 6,978,921, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety in the entire entire disclosure of The manner of reference is incorporated herein. However, as the detailed description of the present invention proceeds, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other tools and firing mechanisms may be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

In the present specification, a slamming mechanism means one or more portions of a pneumatic tool and/or an end effector that move from an unactuated position in which the firing mechanism may be essentially in a resting state to a portion or portions The actuated, terminal position that has been moved or shifted to a final position, wherein the movement causes the tool to perform one or more actions in response to at least one firing motion applied thereto. The firing mechanism may, for example, comprise: (i) a component that is fully supported by the pneumatic tool and interfaces with components in the surgical device; (ii) a combination of components located within the pneumatic tool and within the surgical device; or (iii) The surgical device supports and can move in and out of the components of the pneumatic tool. In the present specification, the sniper stroke means the actual movement of the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the activated position. In the text, the retraction stroke means that the firing mechanism moves back from the activated position to the unactuated position.

As shown in Figure 2, the end effector 12 includes a distal member that, in each non-limiting embodiment, includes a long channel 20 to which a pivotally translatable anvil 40 is attached. . The long channel 20 is configured to receive and support a magazine 50 that responds to the tool assembly 30 to urge the staple 70 into forming contact with the anvil 40. It should be understood that although an easily replaceable staple is advantageously provided herein, a staple that conforms to the teachings of the present invention can be permanently secured or integrated into the long channel 20.

In various embodiments, the firing mechanism or tool assembly 30 includes vertical spacing pins that control the distance between the end effectors 12 during firing. In particular, the upper pin 32 is arranged to enter an anvil 42 near the pivot between the anvil 40 and the long channel 20. Referring to Fig. 4, when firing while the anvil 40 is closed, the upper pin 32 is advanced distally within the longitudinal anvil slot 44 extending distally through the anvil 40. Any slight upward deflection in the anvil 40 is overcome by the upper pin 32 giving one of the downward forces.

The tool assembly 30 also includes a knife bar cap 34 that is coupled upwardly to one of the channel slots 23 (Fig. 2) formed in the long channel 20, thereby cooperating with the upper pin 32 for the anvil 40 and length The anvil 40 and the long channel 20 are slightly closer to each other when too much tissue is sandwiched between the channels 20. In various embodiments, the tool assembly 30 preferably includes an intermediate pin 36 that is fired through a transmission slot (not shown) through one of the lower surfaces of one of the magazines 50 and one of the upper surfaces of the long channels 20. Thereby, the staple 70 therein is driven as described below. The intermediate pin 36 advantageously resists any tendency of the end effector 12 to be caught at its distal end by sliding against the long channel 20. However, the unique novel aspects of various embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented via the use of other tool assembly configurations.

Referring back to Figure 2, a cutting edge 38 located distally between the upper pin 32 and the intermediate pin 36 on the tool assembly 30 traverses one of the staples 50 in a proximal vertical slot 54 to cut Clamped tissue. The exact positioning of the tool assembly 30 with respect to the long channel 20 and the anvil 40 ensures efficient cutting. In various embodiments, the lower surface of the anvil 40 may have a plurality of staple forming pockets (not shown) therein, and the staple forming pockets are arranged to correspond to the magazine 50 when it is received in the long channel. A plurality of staple holes 58 in one of the upper surfaces 56 of the magazine 50. In various embodiments, the magazine 50 can be snap fit into the long channel 20. In particular, the elongated features 60, 62 of the magazine 50 are frictionally and releasably engaged with the recesses 24, 26 of the long channel 20, respectively.

As also shown in FIG. 2, the magazine 50 includes a body 51, a wedge slider 64, a staple driver 66, a staple 70, and a catch plate 68. At the time of assembly, the chin rest plate 68 holds the wedge slider 64, the staple driver 66, and the staple 70 to the inside of the cymbal body 51. The long channel 20 is coupled to the handle assembly 300 by a long shaft assembly 100 that includes a distal ridge or frame segment 110 and a proximal ridge or frame segment 130. The long channel 20 has attachment pockets 22 disposed proximally, each attachment pocket receiving a corresponding channel anchoring member 114 formed on the distal end of the distal spine segment 110. The long channel 20 also has an anvil cam slot 28 that pivotally receives a corresponding anvil pivot 43 on the anvil 40. A closure sleeve assembly 170 is nested over the spine assembly 102 and includes a distal closure tube segment 180 and a proximal closure tube segment 190. As will be explained below, axial movement of the closure sleeve assembly 170 relative to the ridge assembly 102 causes the anvil 40 to pivot relative to the long channel 20.

As shown in FIG. 2, a lock spring 112 is mounted in the distal spine section 110 as one of the latching means of the tool assembly 30. Distal and proximal square apertures 111, 113 are formed atop the distal spine segment 110 to define a clamping bar 115 therebetween that receives an upper arm 116 of the latch spring 112, the distal arm 118 of the latch spring extending distally A downward force is applied to the distal end of one of the cylinder assemblies 501 to support the piston rod portion 35 projecting from the tool assembly 30, as will be described below. It should be understood that embodiments may include other types of latching devices or no latching devices at all.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-6, the end effector 12 can be closed relative to the proximal closure tube section 190 (and the handle assembly) by a combination of cables or straps that are rotated about a pivot 104 by bending the end effector 12. 300) Perform a live movement. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such a configuration is only one of many active configurations that can be used with these types of devices. In this embodiment, the proximal end of the distal spine segment 110 has a hub 122 thereon. The distal end of the proximal spine section 130 is provided with a tang 134 having a through hole 136. Positioning the proximal spine segment 130 relative to the distal spine segment 110 causes the bore 136 to be coaxially aligned with the bore 124 of one of the hubs 122 to allow a pivot pin 138 to pass therethrough. See Figure 4. Such a configuration permits the terminal end effector 12 to pivot about the pivot axis A-A relative to the proximal spine section 130 during assembly.

As previously mentioned, this embodiment utilizes the belt to cause the end effector 12 to perform a joint motion. In particular, the straps 150, 160 can extend distally toward the hinge pivot 104 as shown in Figures 2 and 3. The strap 150 can pass the proximal closure tube section along the left side of the proximal closure tube section 190 where it bypasses the strap member 160 and spans to the right side of the proximal closure tube section. Wherein, the strap 150 can be mechanically coupled to the hub 122 at a connection point 123, for example. Likewise, the strap 160 can pass the proximal closure tube section along the right side of the proximal closure tube section 190 where it bypasses the strap member 150 and spans to the left side of the proximal closure tube section 190. Wherein, the strap 160 can be mechanically coupled to the hub 122 at the attachment point 125.

3 is a top plan view of the end effector and ridge assembly 102 with the closure tube assembly 100 shown in phantom. 4 is a partial side cross-sectional view of the same portion of the appliance 10. As shown in FIG. 4, according to one non-limiting embodiment, straps 150 and 160 are shown offset from each other to prevent interference with one another in motion. For example, the strap 150 is shown in a position below the strap 160. In another non-limiting embodiment, the straight orientation of the leads 150 and 160 can be reversed. As also shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the strap member 150 extends around a pin 140 in the tang portion 134 of the proximal bobbin segment 130. Likewise, the band 160 extends around the pin 142 in the tang portion 134 of the proximal frame segment 130. See also Figure 2.

The strap portions 150 and 160 can extend from the hub 122 and extend along the proximal closure tube section 190 to the joint controller 200 of FIG. The joint controller 200 can include a hinge slide 202, a frame 204, and a closure 206. The strap portions 150, 160 can pass through the slot slider 202 via slots 208 or other apertures, although it should be understood that the strap portions 150, 160 can be coupled to the slider 202 by any suitable means. The joint slider 202 can be a one piece as shown in Figure 5, or can comprise two components in a non-limiting embodiment with a boundary defining a slot 208 therebetween. In one non-limiting embodiment, the hinge slider 202 can include a plurality of slots, for example, with each slot corresponding to one of the strap portions 150, 160. The closure 206 can cover various components of the controller 200 to prevent debris from entering.

In various embodiments, the strap portions 150, 160 can be anchored to the frame 204 at attachment points 210, 212 that are proximal to the slot 208. The non-limiting example of FIG. 5 shows that the strap portions 150, 160 are pre-bent from the attachment points 210, 212 to the slots 208 near the longitudinal axis of the proximal closure tube section 190. It will be appreciated that the strap portions 150, 160 can be anchored to any of the closer slots 208 in the appliance 10 near the proximal side, including the handle assembly 300.

In use, the embodiment of Figure 2 can have one of the unjointed motion positions as shown in Figure 3. The joint controller 200 and belts 150, 160 are shown in a centered position about the longitudinal axis of the shaft assembly 100. Thus, the end effector 12 is in a neutral or unjointed motion position. In FIG. 6, the joint controller 200 is shown with the hinge slide 202 pushed through the joint frame to the right of the shaft assembly 100. Thus, the straps 150, 160 are bent toward the right side of the shaft assembly 100. It can be seen from the figure that the bending of the belt 150 to the right exerts a lateral force on the hub 122 that is offset from the pivot point of the hub 122. This offset force causes the hub 122 to rotate about the hinge pivot 104, causing the end effector 12 to pivot to the right as shown. It will be appreciated that pushing the hinge slide 202 to the left side of the shaft assembly 100 can exert a lateral force on the belts 150, 160 such that both belts 150, 160 are bent toward the left side of the shaft assembly 100. The bending of the band 160 then exerts a lateral force on the hub 122 that is offset from the pivot point of the hub 122 as previously described. This then causes the hub 122 to rotate about the hinge pivot, causing the end effector 12 to pivot to the left.

In various embodiments, the shaft assembly 100 is constructed from a closure tube assembly 170 over the ridge assembly 102. See Figure 2. The closure tube assembly 170 includes a distal closure tube segment 180 and a proximal closure tube segment 190. The distal closure tube section 180 and the proximal closure tube section 190 can be made of a polymer or other suitable material. The proximal closure tube section 190 is hollow and has a penetratingly extending axial passage 191 that is sized to receive a portion of the ridge assembly 102 therein.

In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 and 4, a double pivot closure joint 172 is used. It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to a dual pivot closed joint design and may include any suitable closure tube or sleeve, or no closure tube or sleeve at all. With particular reference to Figure 4, the distal closure tube section 180 has tangs 182, 184 that project proximally from the upper and lower portions. The distal closure tube section 180 further includes a horseshoe shaped aperture 185 and tab 186 for engaging the anvil opening/closing tab 46 on the anvil 40 to cause the anvil 40 to pivot between an open position and a closed position, as described below. See Figure 2.

The proximal closure tube section 190 similarly has an upper tang 192 extending distally and a lower tang 194 extending distally. An upper dual pivot link 174 includes upwardly and proximally extending distal and proximal pivot pins 175, 176 that engage an upper distal latch hole in the proximally extending tang 182, respectively. 183 and an upper proximal latch hole 193 in the upper tang 192 protrudes distally. The connector arrangement further includes a lower dual pivot link 177 having distal and proximal pivot pins 178, 179 (not shown in Figure 2, but seen in Figure 4) that protrude downwardly, respectively. Engaged in a lower distal latch hole 187 in the proximally projecting tang 184 and a lower proximal latch hole 195 in the distally projecting tang 194.

In use, the closure tube assembly 170 translates distally, for example, in response to the actuation of the closure trigger 310 to close the anvil 40. The anvil 40 is distally translated on the ridge assembly 102 by the closure tube assembly 170 causing the back of the horseshoe shaped aperture 185 to strike the opening/closing tab 46 on the anvil 40 and cause the anvil 40 to pivot to the closed position to close. To open the anvil 40, axially moving the closure tube assembly 170 in the proximal direction on the ridge assembly 102 causes the tab 186 to contact and push against the opening/closing tab 46 to pivot the anvil 40 to the open position.

Figure 7 illustrates an exploded assembly view of one of the non-limiting handle assemblies 300 of one embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7, the handle assembly has a pistol grip configuration and is comprised of a right housing member 320 and a left housing member 330, the housing members being comprised of a polymer or Other suitable materials are molded or otherwise fabricated and designed to match. The casing members 320 and 330 may be attached by short links and sockets that are molded, otherwise molded or otherwise formed, and/or attached by adhesives, screws, bolts, clips, and the like. Together. The upper housing portion 320 of the right housing member 320 cooperates with a corresponding upper portion 323 of the left housing member 330 to form a main housing portion, designated 340. Similarly, the lower upper grip portion 324 of the right housing member 320 mates with the lower housing member lower grip portion 344 to form a grip portion generally designated 342. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the entire grip portion 342 is integrated with the main housing portion 340. Such a configuration may be particularly suitable for applications where the pressurized gas source is permanently installed within the grip portion 342. This configuration is also suitable for use with a pressurized gas source that is coupled to the control assembly contained within the handle assembly via one or more ports on the housing assembly outside of the handle assembly 300. In other embodiments, the grip portion 342 can be detached from the main housing portion 340 as will be described in more detail below. This configuration provides a number of benefits and advantages as the detailed description of the invention proceeds. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the handle assembly 300 can be provided in a variety of different shapes and sizes.

For simplicity of the drawing, FIG. 7 merely illustrates the components for controlling the axial movement of the closure tube assembly 170 that ultimately controls the opening and closing of the anvil 40. As shown, a closure shuttle 400 coupled to the closure trigger 302 by a linkage assembly 430 is supported within the main housing portion 340. The closure shuttle 400 can also be fabricated as two portions 402, 404 that are molded or otherwise fabricated from a polymer or other suitable material and designed to fit together. For example, in the embodiment of FIG. 7, the right portion 402 can be provided with a fastening peg 403 that is designed to be received within a corresponding socket (not shown) of the left portion 404. The right and left portions 402, 404 can be otherwise held together by fastening members and/or adhesives and/or bolts, screws, clips, and the like. As shown in the figures, a stop groove 196 is provided in the proximal end of the proximal closure tube section 190. The right portion 402 of the closure shuttle 400 has a right stop flange section 405 adapted to engage with one of the left stop flange sections on the left portion 404 of the closure shuttle 400 (not shown) The cooperation forms a stop flange assembly that projects into the stop groove 196 of the proximal closure tube section 190.

As also shown in FIG. 7, a right ridge assembly stop post 326 extends inwardly from the right casing member 320. This post 326 extends into an elongated slot or window 406 in the right portion 402 of the closure shuttle 400. A similar closed shuttle stop post (not shown) extends inwardly from the left casing member 330 and is intended to be received in another window or slot 408 of the left portion 404 of the closure shuttle 400. These stop posts are used to immovably secure the proximal end 133 (not shown in FIG. 7) of the proximal spine 130 to the handle assembly 300 while permitting the axial movement of the closure shuttle 400 relative to the handle assembly 300. The stop post can be mechanically attached to the proximal end of the proximal spine section 130 by bolts, screws, adhesives, fastening features, and the like, for example. Further, the closing shuttle 400 is provided with laterally extending guide rails 410, 411. The track 410 is configured to be slidably received within the track guide 328 of the right casing member 320, and the track 411 is configured to be slidably received within a track guide (not shown) of the left casing member 330.

The axial movement of the closure shuttle 400 and the closure tube assembly 170 in the distal direction (arrow 〝C〞) is generated by the closure trigger 302 moving toward the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300, and the closure shuttle 400 is in the proximal direction. The axial movement in (arrow 〝D〞) is produced by the movement of the closure trigger 302 away from the grip portion 342. In various embodiments, the closure shuttle 400 is provided with a connector tab 412 that attaches the closure link assembly 430 thereto. See Figures 8 and 9. The closure link assembly 430 includes a yoke portion 432 that is pivotally pinned to the connector tab 412 by a pin 414. The closure link assembly 430 further has a closure arm 434 that is pivotally pinned to a yoke assembly 304 formed on the closure trigger 302 by a closure pin 436 as shown in FIG. The closure trigger 302 is pivotally mounted within the handle assembly 300 by a pivot pin 306 extending between the right housing member 320 and the left housing portion 330.

When the clinician wants to close the anvil 40 to clamp the tissue within the end effector 12, the clinician pulls the trigger 302 to the grip portion 342. As the clinician pulls the closure trigger 302 to the grip portion 342, the closure link assembly 430 moves the closure shuttle 400 in the distal 〝C〞 direction until the closure linkage assembly 430 moves to the locked position shown in FIG. When in this position, the link assembly 430 will tend to hold the closure shuttle 400 in the locked position. As the closure shuttle 400 is moved to the locked position, the closure tube assembly 170 is moved distally over the ridge assembly 102, causing the closure/opening tab 46 on the anvil 40 to be proximally closed by the horseshoe shaped aperture 185 of the tubular section 180. The end touches to pivot the anvil 40 to the closed (clamped) position.

In various embodiments, to further maintain the shuttle 400 in the closed position, the closure trigger 302 can be provided with a releasable locking mechanism 301 adapted to engage the grip portion 342 and releasably retain the closure trigger 302 in the locked position. It is also possible to use other locking means to releasably hold the closure shuttle 400 in the locked position. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 8, 8A, 8B, and 9, the closure trigger 302 includes a flexible longitudinal arm 303 from which a lateral pin 305 extends. The arms 303 and pins 305 can be made, for example, of molded plastic. The pistol grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300 includes an opening 350 in which a laterally extending wedge 352 is placed. When the closure trigger 302 is retracted, the pin 305 engages the wedge 352 and the pin 305 is forced downward by the lower surface 354 of the wedge 352 (and even if the arm 303 is rotated in a clockwise direction). When the pin 305 passes completely through the lower surface 354, the clockwise force on the arm 303 is removed and the pin 305 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction causing the pin 305 to rest in one of the recesses 356 behind the wedge 352 to lock the closure trigger 302. The pin 305 is further retained in the locked position by a flexible stop 358 extending from the wedge 352.

To unlock the closure trigger 302, the operator can further squeeze the closure trigger 302, causing the pin 305 to engage one of the openings 350 to tilt the rear wall 359, forcing the pin 305 up through the flexible stop 358. The pin 305 can then freely exit one of the upper channels of the opening 360 such that the closure trigger 302 is no longer locked to the pistol grip portion 342. Further details of this configuration can be found in the application of the certificate of January 31, 2006 to Shelton, et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The relevant portions of this patent application are incorporated herein by reference. Other release lock configurations are also available.

In various embodiments of the invention, the tool assembly 30 can have a generally rigid piston rod portion 35 extending therefrom or otherwise attached thereto, the piston rod portion being a portion of the transmission member 500 that is distally ridged 110 is operatively supported and configured to impart at least two drive motions (e.g., a firing motion and a retracting motion) to the tool assembly 30. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 3, 4, 10, and 11, the transmission member 500 includes a two-stage pneumatically actuated cylinder assembly 501. The tool assembly 30 can include a unitary component or it can be provided in multiple pieces to facilitate assembly of the appliance 10. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the arbor assembly 30 includes a distal portion 31 that includes an upper pin 32, a cap 34, an intermediate pin 36, and a knife 38. The distal portion 31 can have therein a bore 33 of a predetermined size for receiving a projection 37 on the distal end of the piston rod portion 35. The projection 37 can be received in the hole 33 by friction and/or held by an adhesive, welding or the like.

The cylinder assembly 501 includes a first cylinder housing 510 having a first closed proximal end 512 and a first opening into one of the first axial passages 516 of the first cylinder housing 510. Remote end 514. The cylinder assembly 501 also includes a second cylinder housing 520 having a second proximal end 522 and a second open distal end 524 that opens into a second axial passage 526. The second closed proximal end 522 has a first piston head 528 formed thereon, the first piston head being sized relative to the first axial passage 516 for generating a first wall 511 with the first cylinder housing 510. The substantially airtight sliding seal defines a first cylinder region 515 between the distal side of the first proximal end 512 and the proximal side of the first piston head 528. The first distal end 514 of the first cylinder housing 510 further has an inwardly extending first flange 517 formed thereon for establishing a substantially airtight relationship with the outer wall surface of the second cylinder housing 520. The sliding seal defines a second cylinder region 518 between the proximal side of the first flange 517 and the distal side of the first piston head 528.

A first passage 527 penetrates the first piston head 528. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the proximal end of the piston rod 35 extends through the second open distal end 524 of the second cylinder housing 520 into the second axial passage 526. A second piston head 530 is formed or otherwise attached to the proximal end of the piston rod 35. The second piston head 530 is sized relative to the second axial passage 526 for creating a substantially airtight sliding seal with the second wall 521 of the second cylinder housing 520 to define a third cylinder region 532. The second distal end 524 of the second cylinder housing 520 further has an inwardly extending second flange 525 formed thereon for establishing a substantially airtight sliding seal with the piston rod 35 for use in the second A fourth cylinder region 534 is defined between the proximal side of the flange 25 and the distal side of the second piston head 530.

As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the cylinder assembly 501 is mounted within the distal spine section 110. In various embodiments, a pair of trunnions 519 are provided on the proximal end of the first cylinder housing 510. The trunnion 519 is received within the trunnion aperture 119 of the distal spine segment 110 to enable the cylinder assembly 501 to pivot within the distal spine segment 110 about a pivot axis B-B. See Figure 3. A first air supply line or air supply conduit 540 extends from one of the handle assembly 300 directional control valves 610 (Figs. 8 and 9) through the proximal side of the first proximal end 512 to be coupled to the first cylinder housing 510. The tube section 190 is thereby supplied with pressurized gas through a first gas supply port 513 or opening of the first proximal end 512 of the first cylinder housing 510. See Figures 10 and 11. Additionally, a second supply line 542 extends from the directional control valve 610 through the proximal closure tube section 190 and is coupled to the first cylinder housing 510 near the distal end 514 of the first cylinder housing 510 for passage via a second port 529 feeds pressurized gas into the second cylinder zone 518.

Referring to Figures 8-11, the elongation and retraction of the firing mechanism or cutter assembly 30 will now be described in detail. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the supply lines 540 and 542 are coupled to a conventional directional valve 610 that is part of one of the drive systems 600 housed within the handle housing 350. In various embodiments, the directional valve 610 may be manually switched between a forward (elongated) and inverted (retracted) position by a select switch 612 or button that is permeable to the handle housing 350. See Figure 1. In the embodiment shown in Figures 8 and 9, a removable pressurized gas source 620 is used. As will be described in more detail below, such a pressurized gas source includes a gas cylinder 622 that may be refilled with a preferred pressurized gas. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable/refillable pressurized gas source (a gas cylinder) can also be utilized effectively. In still other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 for supplying pressurized gas from an external pressurized gas source 618. For example, the appliance 10 can be coupled to a compressed air supply 618 in the facility via a flexible air supply line 617. See Figure 8B.

A unique novel perspective of the removable/refillable gas cylinder 622 will be described in greater detail below. However, in order to explain the elongation and retraction of the piston rod 35 and the tool assembly 30, it can be seen that pressurized gas flows from the gas cylinder 622 (or external pressure source 618) through a gas supply line 650, which may include a conventional proportional valve. 660 variable force drive. As shown in particular in FIGS. 9 and 55, the proportional valve 660 is coupled to a supply air link 662 that is attached to a start trigger 670. In the present specification, the 〝 variable force drive assembly 〞 includes at least a proportional valve 660 and a start trigger 670 and their corresponding equivalent structures. In various embodiments, the trigger trigger 670 is supported adjacent the firing trigger 310 that is pivotally coupled to the handle by a pivot pin 370 extending between the right housing member 320 and the left housing member 330. Assembly 300. Pressing the trigger 670 inwardly toward the firing trigger 310 causes the proportional valve 660 to increase the flow rate of pressurized gas from the gas cylinder 622 into a gas supply line 680 coupled to the directional valve 610. Depending on the position of the directional valve 610, pressurized gas may flow into the supply line 540 or 542. For example, when the directional valve 610 is actuated by the clinician to fire the tool assembly 30, the pressurized gas is allowed to flow through the gas supply line 540 through the first opening 527 in the first piston head 528 after actuation of the trigger 670. Within the first cylinder region 515 and into the third cylinder region 532. As the pressurized gas enters the third cylinder region 532, the second piston head 530 urges the piston rod 35 distally. The gas located in the fourth cylinder region is discharged through the exhaust port 523 of the second cylinder housing 520. Similarly, the gas contained in the second cylinder region 518 is permitted to be discharged into the second gas supply line 542 through the second opening 529. The second gas supply line 542 sends the exhaust gas to the directional valve 610 and is finally discharged from the directional valve. Continued application of pressurized gas to the first cylinder region 515 and the third cylinder region 532 causes the tool assembly 30 to extend completely through the end effector 12. As the tool assembly 30 passes through the end effector 12, it cuts the tissue clamped in the end effector and fires the staples 70 in the staple cartridge 50 (which urges the staples into forming contact with the underlying surface of the anvil 40). Once the tool assembly 30 has advanced to its most distal position within the end effector 12, the clinician releases the activation trigger 670 to interrupt the application of pressurized gas.

To retract the firing mechanism or tool assembly 30, the clinician manually moves the selector switch 612 or the appropriate button to adjust the directional valve 610 to the retracted position and begins to squeeze the trigger 670, causing pressurized gas to flow into the second supply line. Within 542. Gas flowing through the second gas supply line 542 enters the second cylinder region 518, causing the second cylinder housing 520 to retract proximally into the first cylinder housing 510. The gas in the first cylinder region 515 is allowed to be discharged into the first gas supply line 540 via the first gas supply port 513. The gas passing through the first gas supply line 540 enters the directional valve 610 and is thereby discharged. Once the pressurized gas entering the second cylinder region 518 has caused the second cylinder housing 520 to retract into the first cylinder housing 510 as shown in FIG. 10, the gas passing through the second opening 529 can now pass through the first cylinder housing. The exhaust port 523 of the 510 flows into the fourth cylinder region 534. As the pressurized gas enters the fourth cylinder region 534, the second piston head 530 pulls the piston rod 35 proximally into the second cylinder housing 520. Gas in the third cylinder region 532 enters the first cylinder region 515 through the first opening 527 and is discharged from the first cylinder region in the manner previously described.

Variable force actuators in the form of proportional valves 660 in various embodiments of the present invention may utilize springs or other biasing means (not shown) to bias proportional valve 660 to an unactuated position. When in the unactuated position, the proportional valve 660 can be configured to prevent any gas from flowing from the gas source 620 or 618 through an orifice (not shown) in the valve 660. Thus, when the drive trigger 670 is in the inactive position, the device is essentially in a state of slamming.

In the foregoing embodiment, the proportional valve 660 can be mechanically coupled to the activation trigger 670 by the air supply link arm 662 such that when the clinician presses the trigger trigger 670 inwardly toward the firing trigger 310, the link arm 662 causes Proportional valve 660 permits gas flow rate to increase through valve 660. Thus, rapid squeezing of trigger 670 may result in an increased rate of firing of the device, and slowing down the rate at which squeezing trigger 670 will slow down the firing rate. Therefore, the gas flow rate allowed to pass through the proportional valve 660 is approximately proportional to the manual force applied to the activation trigger 670.

In other embodiments, the proportional valve 660 can be electronically controlled such that after the trigger is actuated, the proportional valve 660 digitizes the gas from its position. The proportional valve 660 releases a small amount of gas in a pulsed manner, and the trigger 670 is activated by a larger force, and the closer the pulse interval is. This configuration is used to selectively adjust the volume of gas used to actuate the device.

Also, in still other embodiments, the drive mechanism can include a different type of mechanism that is not pivotally supported relative to the handle assembly as the trigger trigger 670. For example, the trigger can be a spring driven slip switch or the like. Accordingly, the protection provided to these embodiments of the invention should not be limited to the embodiment in which a pivoting drive trigger is used.

Again, in various embodiments, a pressure gauge 541 can be fluidly coupled to the gas supply line 540 as shown in Figures 8 and 8A. A window 543 can be provided through a corresponding portion of the handle assembly 300 to enable the clinician to view the pressure gauge 541, or other configurations can be used to allow the clinician to view the pressure gauge 541 during use. See Figure 7. In various embodiments, the pressure gauge 541 can include an electronic pressure gauge or a dial gauge. In these non-limiting embodiments, the pressure gauge 541 provides a means for providing feedback of the forces encountered during the firing stroke. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in certain non-limiting embodiments, the force required to actuate the firing mechanism is directly proportional to the pressure within the cylinder assembly 501. If these forces are small, the cylinder assembly 501 can be actuated without requiring a large pressure. On the other hand, if the force required to actuate the cylinder assembly 501 is large, more gas must be released into the cylinder assembly 501 to increase the pressure therein to fully actuate the firing mechanism. A pressure gauge 541 is used to provide the clinician with a proportional reading of the force that the end effector is experiencing.

In other embodiments, a sound outlet 545 can be provided in the gas supply line 540 as shown in Figure 8C. This sound outlet permits a small amount of gas to be released from the gas supply line 540. The subsequent whistle scale due to gas discharge will rise as the pressure increases. The clinician can then establish an association between the whistle scale and the force experienced by the firing mechanism. The configuration thus provides the clinician with a sound feedback for monitoring the firing force experienced by the transmission system 500 and the final firing mechanism.

Non-limiting embodiments may also be provided with means for automatically notifying the clinician when the firing mechanism has reached the end of the firing stroke. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, a limit switch 546 can be provided in the distal spine 110 for detecting an activation member 547 that is embedded or otherwise attached to the firing bar 35 as shown in FIG. The activation member 547 is positioned such that when the firing rod 35 and the firing mechanism reach the end of the firing stroke, the activation member 547 is detected by the limit switch 546, which can be electrically coupled to the directional control valve 610 to transmit an appropriate signal to the valve . Upon receipt of this signal, the directional control valve 610 can be configured to automatically switch to the retracted position and permit the firing mechanism to be retracted. Additionally, limit switch 546 can be coupled to an indicator member, generally designated 549 in FIG. In various embodiments, the indicator member can provide the clinician with an audible signal, a visual signal, or a combination of sound and visual signals indicating that the firing mechanism has reached the end of the firing stroke. For example, the indicating member can include a sound generating device, a light emitting diode, a vibration generating device, and the like, or a combination of such devices. The limit switch and associated control assembly can be powered by a battery (not shown) supported within the housing assembly 300, or it can provide power from an external source. Accordingly, various non-limiting embodiments of the present invention may be provided with a means for providing a visual and/or audible signal to the clinician indicating that the firing mechanism has reached the end of the firing stroke and/or for automatically reducing the firing mechanism by pneumatic force. Return to the device in the unactuated position.

As shown in FIGS. 4, 10 and 11, a locking projection 39 can be formed on the bottom of the piston rod 35. When the tool assembly 30 is in the fully retracted position as shown in FIG. 4, the arm 118 of the lock spring 112 applies a biasing force to the distal end of the cylinder assembly 501. Since the cylinder assembly 501 is pivotally mounted within the distal spine section 110 by the trunnion 519, the distal end of the cylinder assembly 501 pivots downwardly within the distal spine section 110 and further causes locking on the piston rod 35. The projection 39 is dropped into one of the locking openings 21 of the long channel 20. This configuration is used to lock the tool assembly 30 in the retracted position by the frictional engagement of the locking projection 39 with the portion of the long channel 20 in which the locking opening is defined. As seen in Figures 10 and 11, the locking projection 39 has a proximal bevel 39' and a distal bevel 39" to allow the locking projection to easily enter and exit the locking opening in the long channel 20. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Other toolholder locking configurations can be successfully employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

12-16A illustrate another embodiment of the present invention in which the transmission member 500 includes a cylinder assembly 800 having a configuration similar to that of the aforementioned cylinder assembly 501, the differences being described below. For example, in the present embodiment, the piston rod 35 is retracted by the springs 850, 852. As shown in Figures 12 and 13, the cylinder assembly 800 includes a first housing 810 having a first closed end 812 and a penetrating first air supply port 813. A first gas supply line 840 is attached to the first closed end 812 to supply pressurized gas through the first gas supply port 813. In this embodiment, the first cylinder housing 810 has no second opening 529 as mentioned with respect to the various embodiments described above. A second cylinder housing 820 is slidably received within the first cylinder housing 810 and has a second closed proximal end 822, a first piston head 828 formed on the second closed proximal end. A first cylinder region 815 is defined between the first closed end 812 and the first piston head 828. A first retraction spring 850 is provided between the first piston head 828 and a first flange 817 formed on the distal end of the first cylinder housing 810. The first retraction spring 850 is used to bias the second cylinder housing 820 to the retracted position in the first cylinder 810 as shown in FIG. The piston rod 35 has a stepped end 35' of a predetermined size for accessing the second distal end 824 of the second cylinder housing 820. A second flange 825 is formed on the second distal end 824 to create a substantially lateral seal with the stepped portion 35' of the piston rod 35. A second piston head 830 is provided on the proximal end of the stepped piston rod section 35' to define a third cylinder region 832 between the second piston head 830 and the first piston head 828. A first opening 827 penetrates the first piston head 828 to allow air to pass between the first cylinder region 815 and the third cylinder region 832. A second retracting spring 852 is provided between the second flange 825 and the second piston head 830 as shown in FIG. 12 to bias the second piston head 830 and the stepped piston rod 35' as shown in FIG. A fully retracted position within the two cylinder housing 820.

This embodiment of the invention can operate in the following manner. As shown in Figure 16, the handle assembly 300 is provided with a replaceable pressurized gas source 620 as previously described. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable source of pressurized gas (a gas cylinder) can also be effectively utilized. In still other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 that facilitates attachment of the directional control valve 610 and associated components to an external pressurized gas source 618. See Figure 16A. For example, the appliance 10 can be coupled to a compressed air line in the facility via a flexible air supply line 617.

To operate the appliance, the clinician moves the directional control valve selector switch 612 (Fig. 1) or button to the forward (elongate) position and begins to squeeze the trigger 670, permitting pressurized gas from the gas cylinder 622 (or external source) 618) flows into the gas supply line 840 through the gas supply line 680 through the directional control valve 610. The pressurized gas flows from the first gas supply line 840 through the first gas supply port 813 into the first cylinder region 815, and through the first opening 827 into the third cylinder region 832. The gas entering the third cylinder region 832 causes the second piston head 830 and the stepped portion 35' of the piston rod 35 to move distally. After the second piston head 830 has moved to a fully extended position (Fig. 13), the gas continuing into the first cylinder region 815 biases the second housing 820 to its fully extended position. Once the tool assembly 30 has advanced to its most distal position within the end effector 12, the clinician releases the activation trigger 670 to interrupt the application of pressurized gas.

To retract the firing mechanism or cutter assembly 30, the clinician moves the directional valve selection switch 612 to the inverted (retracted) position, wherein the first supply line 840 is coupled to one of the directional valves 610. The gas in the third cylinder region 832 and the first cylinder region 815 is allowed to be discharged into the gas supply line 840 via the first gas supply line 813 and finally discharged through the orientation valve 610. As the gas exits the third cylinder region 832, the second retraction spring 852 retracts the stepped portion 35' of the piston rod 35 into the second cylinder housing 820. Likewise, as the gas exits the first cylinder region 815, the first retraction spring 850 retracts the second cylinder housing 520 into the first cylinder housing 810.

Also in this embodiment, a pressure gauge 541 can be fluidly coupled to the gas supply line 840 as shown in Figures 16 and 16A, which can function as previously described and serve to provide the clinician with the strength that the end effector is experiencing. Proportional readings. In other embodiments, a sound outlet 545 can be provided in the gas supply line 840 as shown in FIG. 16B, which can function as previously described and used to provide a clinician with a means to monitor the transmission system 500 and ultimately The sound feedback mechanism of the firing force experienced by the firing mechanism. In other alternative embodiments, a limit switch 546 (FIG. 15) can be provided in the distal spine 110 for detecting an activation member 547 (FIGS. 12 and 13) embedded in the firing bar 35, thereby automatically The directional switch 610 is controlled and/or provides a visual and/or acoustic signal indicating that the firing mechanism has reached the end of the firing stroke.

17-21A illustrate yet another embodiment of the present invention in which the transmission member 500 includes a bellows assembly 900. The bellows assembly 900 can have a distal end 902 that is attached to the distal portion 31 of the shank assembly 30. The distal end 902 has a projection 904 formed thereon that is sized for receipt in one of the apertures 33 of the portion 31. The protrusion 904 may be received in the hole 33 by friction and/or held by an adhesive, welding or the like. The distal portion 31 can be constructed as previously described.

The bellows assembly 900 further includes an expandable/retractable bellows portion 910 that is sized to elongate and retract within a bellows passage 117 in the distal spine as shown in FIG. The bellows portion 910 can be formed with a wire confinement ring 912 as shown in FIG. 20 and attached to a base portion 914 that is non-movably attached to or includes the distal spine segment 110. One part. The base 914 can be attached to the distal spine 110 by an adhesive, screw or the like. A gas supply port 916 passes through the bellows base 914 and a gas supply line 940 is attached to the gas supply port 916. The gas supply line 940 is also coupled to the directional control valve 610 in the handle assembly 300. See Figures 21, 21A. The directional control valve 610 is also in communication with a vacuum port 920 mounted in the handle assembly 300 via a vacuum line 922. The vacuum cassette 920 can be attached to a vacuum source 630 by way of a flexible line 632, for example. The vacuum source can be one of the permanent vacuum supply lines in the facility. A flexible vacuum line 632 can be coupled from the crucible 920 to the vacuum source 630 to allow the clinician to freely manipulate the appliance.

The appliance can be configured with a closure tube assembly 170 and a closure trigger 310 as previously described. Thus, the tissue can be clamped in the end effector 12 in the manner previously described. After the tissue has been clamped into the terminal effector 12, the clinician can fire the appliance as described below. The clinician moves the selector switch 612 (FIG. 1) or button for the directional control valve 610 to the advanced (elongated) position and begins to squeeze the trigger 670. As the start trigger 670 is squeezed, the proportional valve 660 permits pressurized gas to flow from the pressure source 620 (FIG. 21) or 618 (FIG. 21A) to the directional control valve 610. The directional control valve 610 permits pressurized gas to flow into the bellows 910 through the supply line 940 causing the bellows to extend distally. As the bellows 910 extends distally, it drives the cutter assembly 30 through the end effector 12 to sever the tissue clamped by the end effector and urges the staples 70 in the magazine 50 into forming contact with the bottom surface of the anvil 40. . After the tool assembly 30 has been brought to its most distal position in the end effector 12, the clinician releases the activation trigger 670. To retract the tool assembly 30, the clinician moves the selector switch 612 for the directional control valve 610 to the retracted position to permit the vacuum source 630 to be coupled to the gas supply line 940. Applying a vacuum to the gas supply line 940 causes the bellows 910 to retract to its retracted position as shown in FIG. After the bellows 910 has been fully retracted, the clinician can move the selector switch 612 or button to a position that causes the directional control valve to stop applying vacuum to the supply line 940. However, residual vacuum within the gas supply line 940 can be used to maintain the bellows 910 in the retracted position.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 21, a removable source of pressurized gas 620 is used. As will be described in more detail below, the source of pressurized gas includes a gas cylinder 622 that may be refillable. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable/refillable pressurized gas or pressurized fluid source (a gas cylinder) can also be effectively utilized. In other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 for supplying pressurized gas to an external source of pressurized gas. For example, the appliance 10 can be coupled to a compressed air line of the facility via a flexible air supply line 617. See Figure 21A.

Also in this embodiment, a pressure gauge 541 can be fluidly coupled to the gas supply line 940 as shown in Figures 21 and 21A, which can function as previously described and serve to provide the clinician with the strength that the end effector is suffering. Proportional readings. In other embodiments, an acoustic outlet 545 can be provided in the air supply line 940 as shown in FIG. 21B, which can function as previously described and used to provide a clinician with a means to monitor the transmission system 500 and ultimately The sound feedback mechanism of the firing force experienced by the firing mechanism. In other alternative embodiments, a limit switch 546 (FIG. 18) can be provided in the distal spine 110 for detecting the activation member 912' (FIG. 20) on a bellows assembly 900, thereby automatically The directional switch 610 is controlled and/or provides a visual and/or acoustic signal indicating that the firing mechanism or tool assembly 30 has reached the end of the firing stroke.

22-27 illustrate a gangless disposable end effector 12 that utilizes many of the unique and novel traits of the foregoing embodiments. As shown in Figure 23, this embodiment can employ an end effector 12 and any of the transmission members 500 detailed above. In the present embodiment, however, the end effector 12 can be disposable and attached to a distal shaft assembly 1010 that can be uniquely described by a unique novel quick release coupling of 1000. Removably coupled to a proximal shaft assembly 1020. Once the end effector 12 has been used, the end effector 12 and its attached distal shaft assembly 1010 can be detached from the proximal shaft assembly 1020 and discarded if necessary. A new sterile end effector 12, together with the set of the own distal shaft assembly 1010 and the cylinder configuration, can then be attached to the proximal shaft assembly 1020 to complete another surgical procedure. As will be described in more detail below, the distal shaft assembly 1010 includes a distal spine segment 1110 and a distal closed tubular segment 1180. The proximal shaft assembly 1020 includes a proximal ridge segment 1150, a proximal closure tube segment 1190, and a release sleeve 1200.

The distal spine segment 1110 cooperates with the proximal spine segment 1150 to form a spine assembly 1030. In this embodiment, the distal spine segments 1110 can be substantially identical to the distal spine segments 110 described above, with the difference that the respective proximal ends are different. Likewise, the proximal spine segment 1150 can be substantially identical to the proximal spine segment 130 described above, with the difference that the distal ends are different to enable the distal spine segment 1110 and the proximal spine segment 1150 to be non-pivotablely coupled together. Again, in this embodiment, the distal closure tube segment 1180 can be substantially identical to the distal closure tube segment 180 described above, with the difference that the proximal ends are different. Likewise, the proximal closure tube segment 1190 can be substantially identical to the proximal closure tube segment 190 described above, with the difference that the distal ends are different to allow the distal closure tube segment 1180 and the proximal closure tube segment 1190 to be non-pivotedly attached to each other. Pick up.

As shown in FIG. 23, a lock spring 112 is mounted in the distal spine section 1110 as a latching means for the piston rod 35. Distal and proximal square holes 1111, 1113 are formed atop the distal spine segment 1110 to define a clamping bar 1115 therebetween that receives an upper arm 116 of the latch spring 112, the lower arm 118 of the latch spring extending distally A downward force is applied to one of the distal ends of the cylinder assembly as previously described. It should be understood that embodiments may include other types of latching devices or no latching devices at all.

The proximal end 1114 of the distal spine segment 1110 has a distal connector portion 1116 formed thereon. See Figures 24 and 27. As shown in Figure 24, the distal connector portion 1116 has a first distal air supply port 1117 coupled to the first air supply line segment 540'. A second distal air supply port 1120 is provided in the distal connector portion 1116 and coupled to a second air supply line segment 542'. As shown in FIG. 23 , the first air supply line section 540 ′ is coupled to the first air supply port 513 in the first cylinder housing 510 and the second air supply line section 542 ′ is coupled to the first housing 510 . The second gas supply 529 in the distal end. A first air supply nozzle portion 1118 projects from the first distal air supply port 1117 in a proximal direction as shown. A second air supply nozzle portion 1122 protrudes outward from the second air supply port 1120 in the proximal direction.

Similarly, the distal end 1152 of the proximal spine 1150 has a second connector portion 1154 having a first proximal air supply port coupled to the other first air supply line segment 540" 1156. The second connector portion 1154 further has a second proximal air supply port 1160 coupled to the other second air supply line segment 542". The first proximal air supply port 1156 is configured to removably receive a first air supply nozzle 1118 (FIG. 27) therein, and the second proximal air supply port 1160 is sized for use therein The second air supply nozzle 1122 is received to be removed. As shown in Figures 24 and 27, a first O-ring seal 1158 is combined with the first proximal air supply port 1156 to be in the first air supply line section when the first nozzle 1118 is inserted into the first proximal air supply port 1156. A substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between 540' and another first gas supply line section 540". When coupled together in this manner, the first gas supply line sections 540' and 540" The joining forms a first gas supply line 540. Similarly, a second O-ring seal 1162 is combined with the second proximal air supply port 1160 to be in the second air supply line segment 542' when the second air supply nozzle 1122 is inserted into the second proximal air supply port 1160. Another substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between the other second gas supply line section 542". When coupled together in this manner, the second gas supply line sections 542' and 542" form a The second gas supply line 542. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the first supply line section 540' can be removably coupled to another first supply line section 540" and the second can be utilized with other detachable coupling configurations, quick release configurations. The gas supply line section 542' is removably coupled to another second gas supply line section 542" without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

The distal connector portion 1116 and the proximal connector portion 1154 can be constructed such that they can only be coupled together in one orientation. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, the distal connector portion 1116 can be provided with another notch portion 1119 adapted to mate with a notch portion 1155 of the proximal connector portion 1154 to ensure a first nozzle 1118 during installation. Engaged in the first proximal air supply port 1156 and the second nozzle 1122 is coupled to the second proximal air supply port 1160. This unique and novel attachment configuration prevents the first nozzle 1118 from accidentally attaching to the second proximal air supply port 1160 and the second nozzle 1122 accidentally attached to the first proximal air supply port 1156. Other key class configurations can be utilized to ensure that the distal connector portion 1116 and the proximal connector portion 1154 are coupled in the correct orientation.

As also shown in Figures 24 and 27, the distal end 1152 of the proximal spine 1150 has a hollow sleeve portion 1170 that projects distally. The hollow sleeve portion 1170 is sized to receive the proximal end 1114 of the distal spine segment 1110 therein. To releasably lock the distal spine segment 1110 to the proximal spine segment 1150, a pair of opposing stop members 1124 are formed on the proximal end 1114 of the distal spine segment 1110. The stop 1124 is positioned on the flexible tab 1126 that is cut or otherwise formed in the distal spine segment 1110 such that when the proximal end 1114 of the distal spine segment 1110 is inserted into the hollow sleeve portion 1170 of the proximal spine segment 1150 When the first nozzle 1118 is sealingly coupled with the first proximal air supply port 1156 and the second nozzle 1122 is sealingly coupled with the second proximal air supply port 1160, the blocking member 1124 is received in the corresponding opening 1172 of the hollow sleeve portion 1170. Inside. See Figures 24 and 27.

The releasable attachment of the distal closure tube segment 1180 to the proximal closure tube segment 1190 is described below with reference to Figures 24-27. As shown in these figures, the proximal end 1182 of the distal closure tube segment 1180 has at least two plug-type locking tabs 1184 projecting therefrom in a proximal direction. Each locking tab 1184 has a tapered locking tab 1186 formed thereon that is sized to be received in a corresponding locking opening 1194 of the proximal closure tube section 1190. When in the position shown in Figures 26 and 27, the distal spine segment 1110 is locked to the proximal spine segment 1150 to form the spine assembly 1030, and the distal closed tubular segment 1180 is locked to the proximal closed tubular segment 1190 to form a closed tubular total In 1178. The configuration permit closure tube assembly 1178 is moved proximally and distally on the ridge assembly 1030 in various manners as previously described to open and close the anvil 40 on the end effector 12.

To attach the distal shaft assembly 1010 to the proximal shaft assembly 1020, the user aligns the proximal end 1012 of the distal shaft assembly 1010 with the proximal shaft assembly 1020 as shown in FIG. The distal end 1022 then inserts the distal end 1012 into the proximal end 1022. When the stop 1124 is received within the locking opening 1172 and the locking wedge 1186 is received within the opening 1194, the distal shaft assembly 1010 is locked to the proximal shaft assembly 1020. The anvil 40 can be closed by pivoting the closure trigger 310 to the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300 in a manner that is previously described to cause the closure tube assembly 1178 to move distally. The arbor 30 can be actuated by actuating the trigger 670 in the manner previously described.

To facilitate easy removal of the distal shaft assembly 1010 from the proximal shaft assembly 1020, various embodiments employ a release sleeve configuration. In these embodiments, a release sleeve section 1200 is slidably sleeved over the proximal spine 1150 between the proximal spine section 1150 and the proximal closed tubing section 1190. In various embodiments, the proximal end of the release sleeve 1200 can be provided with a release button 1204 that passes through one of the proximal ends 1195 of the proximal closure tube section 1190 corresponding to the slot 1196. See Figures 22 and 31. This configuration permits release sleeve 1200 to move axially distally and proximally on the proximal spine 1150 without obstructing axial travel of the proximal closure tube segment 1190 over the ridge assembly 1030.

As best shown in FIG. 27, the distal end 1202 of the release sleeve 1200 is chamfered inwardly and oriented such that it is adjacent the two of the proximal closure tube sections 1190 to close the tube locking opening 1194. To release the distal shaft assembly 1010 from the proximal shaft assembly 1020, the user moves the release button distally within the slot 1196 to move the release sleeve 1200 distally. As the beveled distal end 1204 of the release sleeve 1200 contacts the locking wedge 1186, the locking wedge 1186 moves inwardly away from its engagement with the locking opening 1194 in the proximal closure tube section 1190. Further movement of the release sleeve 1200 in the distal direction results in the second beveled inner edge 1206 of the release sleeve 1200 contacting the locking stop 1124 and biasing the locks away from the proximal ridge The engagement of the opening 1172 in the segment 1150 allows the distal shaft assembly 1010 to be disengaged from the proximal ridge assembly 1020.

The embodiment shown in Figures 22-28 can be effectively used with the cylinder assembly 501 described above. The embodiment shown in Figures 29 and 30 can be used effectively with the cylinder assembly 800 or bellows assembly 900 previously described. As shown in Figures 29 and 30, the distal connector portion 1116 has only one port 1300 formed therein coupled to the gas supply line segment 940'. A first air supply nozzle 1302 projects from the first distal air supply port 1300 in a proximal direction as shown. Similarly, the connector portion 1154 has only one proximal air supply port 1306 coupled to the other first air supply line segment 940". The proximal air supply port 1306 is configured to removably receive therein An air supply nozzle 1302. As shown in Figures 29 and 30, an O-ring seal 1308 is combined with the proximal air supply port 1306 to be in the first air supply line section when the air supply nozzle 1302 is inserted into the proximal air supply port 1306. A substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between 940' and another first gas supply line section 940". When coupled together in this manner, the first gas supply line sections 940' and 940" are joined to form a first gas supply line 940. The gas supply line 940 can then be directed to the cylinder assembly 800 or corrugated in the direction previously described. The tube assembly 900 supplies pressurized gas.

Figure 32 illustrates an alternative movable articulated surgical cutting and stapling instrument 2000 having a pneumatic articulated joint assembly 2002 that can be used with the end effector 12 and closure tube assembly 170 previously described. This embodiment can also use the cylinder assembly 501 described above. As shown in Figures 33-35, the joint assembly 2002 includes a ridge assembly 2004 that includes a distal spine section 2010 with a pivot member 2014 projecting from the proximal end 2012 of the distal spine. The pivot member 2014 has a driver piece 2016 protruding therefrom. As shown in FIG. 35, the cylinder assembly 501 is pivotally mounted on the trunnion 519 within the distal spine section 2010.

The pivot member 2014 is pivotally received within a pivot bearing pocket 2034 formed on the distal end 2032 of the proximal spine 2030. The pivot member 2014 is free to pivot relative to the proximal spine member 2030 about the pivot axis E-E. See Figure 36. As shown in FIG. 35, the distal end 2032 of the proximal spine section 2030 has a groove 2036 formed therein for receiving a portion of the first gas supply line 540. Similarly, a second groove 2038 is provided in the distal end 2032 of the proximal spine section 2030 for receiving the second gas supply line 542. The gas supply lines 540, 542 bypass the pivot bearing pocket 2034 into the proximal end 2012 of the distal spine section 2010, wherein it is attached to the cylinder assembly 501 in various manners as previously described. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that a sufficient amount of relaxation of the supply lines 540 and 542 can be provided within the hollow proximal ridge 2030 to enable the distal ridge segment 2010 to be centered about the pivot axis E-E relative to the proximal ridge 2030. Free pivoting. By supporting the supply lines 540, 542 in the grooves 2036, 2038, respectively, these supply lines do not interfere with the axial movement of the closure tube assembly 170 relative to the ridge assembly 2004.

As also shown in FIG. 35, a first vertical air supply passage 2040 is provided in communication with the pivot bearing pocket 2034. Similarly, a second vertical air supply passage 2050 is also provided in communication with the pivot bearing pocket 2034 as shown in FIG. A third air supply line 2042 extending from a switch assembly 2100 mounted in the handle assembly 300 is in communication with the first vertical air supply passage 2040, and a fourth air supply line 2052 extending from the switch assembly 2100. It is in communication with the second vertical channel 2050. To assemble the joint assembly 2002, the pivot member 2014 is inserted into the pivot collar 2034 and a cover 2060 is attached to the proximal spine 2030 with screws 2062 or other suitable tie as shown. Therefore, the pressurized gas entering the first vertical supply passage 2040 from the third gas supply line 2042 causes the distal ridge segment 2010 to pivot in the F〞 direction centering on the pivot axis E-E, and from the fourth gas supply. The entry of the pressurized gas into the second vertical supply port 2050 of the line 2052 causes the distal spine section 2010 to pivot in the G〞 direction about the pivot axis E-E relative to the proximal spine section 2030. See Figure 34.

Referring to Figures 37-45, the construction and operation of the switch assembly 2100 of the various embodiments is described below. In various non-limiting embodiments, the switch assembly 2100 includes a switch block 2110 having a supply port 2112 therein. The gas supply port 2112 is coupled to a gas supply line 651 for receiving pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source 620 (Fig. 44) or 618 (Fig. 45). In particular, a gas supply line 651 can extend from the gas supply line 650 to the cornice 2112. A switch cavity 2114 is provided in the switch block 2110 and is sized to pivotally receive a body portion 2150 of a selector member assembly 2130 therein. A pivot rod 2151 protrudes from the bottom of the main body portion 2150 and is pivotally mounted in the pivot hole 2111 of the switch block 2110. See Figure 39. This configuration permit selector member assembly 2130 selectively rotates about the switch axis H-H. See Figure 38. A pair of O-ring seals 2152, 2154 or other suitable sealing members may be provided as shown in Figures 38 and 39 to establish a substantially airtight seal between the body portion 2150 of the selector member assembly 2130 and the switch block 2110. A short rod 2156 protrudes from the body portion 2150 to receive a selector handle 2158. Rotation of selector handle 2158 causes body portion 2150 to rotate within switch cavity 2114. As shown in FIG. 39, the air supply port 2112 is in communication with one of the air supply passages 2116 of the switch block 2110, and the air supply passage is in communication with a header box region 2118 also formed in the switch block 2110.

The body portion 2150 of the selector member assembly 2130 has a penetrating central air supply port 2160 that communicates with the header region 2118. A third air supply passage 2045 is provided in the switch block 2110. See Figure 40. The third air supply passage 2045 extends between the switching chamber 2114 and a third air supply port 2044, and the third air supply line 2042 is attached to the third air supply port. Similarly, a fourth air supply passage 2055 is provided in the switch block 2110 and extends between the switch chamber 2114 and a fourth air supply port 2054, and the fourth air supply line 2052 is attached to the fourth air supply port. When the selector member assembly 2130 is positioned as shown in FIG. 40, the pressurized gas entering the switch block 2110 via the supply port 2112 into the supply passage 2116 enters the header region 2118 and may flow into the central supply passage 2160. However, the pressurized gas will be blocked at the end of the central air supply passage 2160. Therefore, the switch is in the 〞 position in FIG.

To pivot the distal spine section 2010 to the right (opposite the position shown in Figure 34), the selector member assembly 2130 is pivoted to the position shown in Figure 41. As shown in the figure, the pressurized gas entering the switch block 2110 through the air supply passage 2116 through the air supply port 2112 and entering the pipe header region 2118 is transferred into the third air supply passage 2045 through the central air supply port 2160 and the third. Inside the gas supply line 2042. The pressurized gas then flows into the first vertical supply air passage 2040 and contacts the driver piece 2016 on the pivot member 2014 to force the pivot member 2014 to move in the F〝 direction. The pressurized gas on the opposite side of the driver piece 2016 enters the second vertical passage 2050 and flows into the fourth gas supply line 2052. As the pressurized gas enters the fourth port 2054 in the switch block 2110, it flows into the fourth air supply passage 2055 and flows into one of the fourth exhaust passages 2170 in the main body portion 2150. The fourth exhaust passage 2170 is in communication with one of the undercut venting regions 2155 of the body portion 2150 of the selector member assembly 2130. See Figure 43. Therefore, the pressurized gas in the fourth gas supply line 2052 is discharged through the fourth exhaust passage 2170 and is discharged outside the switch via the undercut exhaust region 2155.

To pivot the distal spine section 2010 to the position shown in FIG. 34, the clinician rotates the selector member assembly 2130 such that the central air supply passage 2160 now extends between the header box region 2118 and the fourth air supply passage 2055. . Therefore, the pressurized gas flowing from the gas supply line 651 into the gas supply passage 2116 and flowing into the header tank region 2118 flows into the fourth gas supply passage 2055 through the central air supply passage 2160. The pressurized gas flows out of the fourth supply port 2054 to the fourth supply line 2052. The fourth gas supply line 2052 transfers the pressurized gas into the second vertical supply air passage 2050. As the pressurized gas enters the second vertical supply air passage 2050, the driver piece 2016 pivots the pivot member 2014 in the G〞 direction. See Figure 34. The gas gas on the opposite side of the driver piece 2016 flows into the third gas supply line 2042 through the first vertical supply air passage 2040. The gas exits the third gas supply line 2042 into the third gas supply passage 2045 and flows into one of the third exhaust passages 2180 provided in the main body portion 2150. The third exhaust passage 2180 is oriented to vent gas through the undercut venting zone 2155.

Another unique novel feature of the present invention is an auto-neutral feature configuration that allows the clinician to lock the distal spine section 2010 (and the end effector 12) to a desired position simply by releasing the selector switch handle 2158. The position of the joint movement. More specifically, a return spring 2190 constructed as shown in the drawings is mounted in the switch block 2110 as shown in Figs. 40, 41 and 43. To hold the spring 2190 within the switch block 2110, a pair of opposing knobs 2192, 2194 protrude from the bottom surface 2113 of the switch block 2110. The springs 2190 are respectively held in the slots 2193, 2195 of the rounded portions 2192, 2194. See Figure 43. As shown in FIG. 43, a return lever 2153 projects from the body portion 2150 of the selector member assembly 2130. The return lever 2153 is received between the free ends 2196, 2198 of the return spring 2190. Figure 43 illustrates the body portion 2150 in a neutral or closed position.

Thus, when the clinician wants to cause the end effector 12 to perform a joint motion, he or she rotates the selector handle 2158 to cause the body portion 2150 of the selector member assembly 2130 to move in a rotational direction corresponding to the desired joint motion. When the clinician rotates the body portion 2150, it rotates against the force generated by one of the free ends 2196, 2198 of the return spring 2190. Once the clinician has turned the end effector 12 to the desired position, he or she releases the selector handle 2158 and the return spring 2190 moves the body portion 2150 to the closed position, which holds the end effector 12 in that position. If the clinician wants to adjust the articulated position of the end effector 12, he or she simply rotates the selector handle 2158 in the desired direction to obtain the desired position and then releases the handle 2158 to maintain the end effector 12 in that position.

Figure 44 illustrates a configuration of control system components for use with the switch 2100 for various non-limiting embodiments of the present invention. As shown, a removable source of pressurized gas 620 is used. Gas flowing from source 620 flows through gas supply line 650 to proportional valve 660 and through gas supply line 651 to port 2112 in switch assembly 2100. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 44, source 620 includes a replaceable/refillable gas cylinder 622 that is supported within grip portion 342 of housing assembly 300. The gas cylinder 622 can be refillable. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable/refillable pressurized gas source (a gas cylinder) can also be utilized effectively. In other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 for supplying pressurized gas from an external pressurized gas source 618. For example, the appliance can be coupled to a compressed air line (not shown) of the facility via a flexible air supply line 617. See Figure 45.

Figures 46-48 illustrate the use of a joint assembly 2002 configuration with a quick release coupling 1000' of the type and configuration previously described. However, in this configuration, a total of four ports are used. As shown in Figure 47, the distal connector portion 1116 has a first distal air supply port 1117 coupled to the first air supply line segment 540'. A second distal air supply port 1120 is provided in the distal connector portion 1116 and coupled to a second air supply line segment 542'. A first air supply nozzle portion 1118 projects from the first distal air supply port 1117 in a proximal direction as shown. A second air supply nozzle portion 1122 protrudes outward from the second air supply port 1120 in the proximal direction.

The distal connector portion 1116 further has a third distal air supply port 1117' coupled to a third air supply line segment 2042'. A fourth distal air supply port 1120' is provided in the distal connector portion 1116 and coupled to a fourth air supply line segment 2052'. A third air supply nozzle portion 1118' projects from the third distal air supply port 1117' in the proximal direction as shown. A fourth air supply nozzle portion 1122' protrudes outward from the fourth air supply port 1120' in the proximal direction.

Similarly, the distal end 1152 of the proximal spine 1150 has a second connector portion 1154 having a first proximal air supply port coupled to the other first air supply line segment 540" 1156. The second connector portion 1154 further has a second proximal air supply port 1160 coupled to the other second air supply line segment 542". The first proximal air supply port 1156 is configured to removably receive the first air supply nozzle 1118 therein, and the second proximal air supply port 1160 is sized to be removably received therein The second air supply nozzle 1122. As shown in FIG. 47, a first O-ring seal 1158 is combined with the first proximal air supply port 1156 to be in the first air supply line section 540' when the first nozzle 1118 is inserted into the first proximal air supply port 1156. Forming a substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal with the other first gas supply line section 540". When coupled together in this manner, the first gas supply line sections 540' and 540" are joined to form A first gas supply line 540. Similarly, a second O-ring seal 1162 is combined with the second proximal air supply port 1160 to be in the second air supply line segment 542' when the second air supply nozzle 1122 is inserted into the second proximal air supply port 1160. Another substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between the other second gas supply line section 542". When coupled together in this manner, the second gas supply line sections 542' and 542" form a The second gas supply line 542.

Moreover, the distal end 1152 of the proximal spine segment 1150 has a second connector portion 1154 having a third proximal air supply port 1156 coupled to the other third air supply line segment 2042". The second connector portion 1154 further has a fourth proximal air supply port 1160' coupled to the other fourth gas supply line section 2052". The third proximal air supply port 1156' is configured to removably receive a third air supply nozzle 1118' therein, and the fourth proximal air supply port 1160' is sized to be movable therein The fourth air supply nozzle 1122' is received in addition to the ground. As shown in FIG. 47, a third O-ring seal 1158' is combined with the third proximal air supply port 1156' to be in the third gas supply line when the third nozzle 1118' is inserted into the third proximal air supply port 1156'. A substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between the section 2042' and the other third gas supply line section 2042". When coupled together in this manner, the third gas supply line section 2042' and The 2042" joint forms a third line 2042. Similarly, a fourth O-ring seal 1162' is combined with the fourth proximal air supply port 1160' to be in the fourth gas supply line region when the fourth air supply nozzle 1122' is inserted into the fourth proximal air supply port 1160'. Another substantially airtight (or liquid tight) seal is formed between the segment 2052' and the other fourth gas supply line section 2052". When coupled together in this manner, the fourth gas supply line section 2052' and 2052" forms a fourth gas supply line 2052. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other detachable coupling configurations, quick release configurations may be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As previously described in the [Prior Art] section, as the inner cutter system becomes smaller and smaller, the difficulty in developing a pneumatic system that can generate the necessary transmission force becomes higher. These problems can be easily solved by using a motor to drive the rotating drive shaft. The rotary motion can easily be transmitted on long, flexible or articulatable drive shafts. Despite significant advances in motor size and torque generation capabilities, the effectiveness of such systems can be limited by the size of the distal long shaft and the size of the motor that can be mounted as close as possible to the area of the stapling mechanism. In many of today's applications, the desired size of the shaft diameter prevents the motor from being positioned at the distal end of the system while providing sufficient energy to drive the system.

The following embodiments address these problems and shortcomings associated with drive motors. As will be described in more detail below, these embodiments utilize a pneumatic motor to transmit rotational power to a rotary driven inner cutter. Air motors typically produce torque and revolutions per minute that are proportional to the pressure and volume of the gas delivered to the motor. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in Figures 49-56, a rotary joint drive assembly is utilized to transfer rotational motion from the air motor to the end effector. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the unique novel aspects of the embodiments of the present invention can be effectively combined with other known rotary driven end effectors and other transmissions that utilize a flexible drive shaft configuration to transmit rotary drive motion to the inner cutter. Appliance use. Moreover, the unique novel aspects of these embodiments of the present invention can be effectively used in conjunction with a non-joint end effector configuration.

Figures 49-56 illustrate a surgical cutting and stapling instrument 1500 of the present invention that utilizes a rotary driven inner cutter 1512. There are a variety of rotary driven internal cutters and other surgical instruments. For example, a rotary inner cutter configuration is disclosed in a patent application filed on Jan. 31, 2006 to Shelton, et al., entitled "Motor Driven Surgical Cutting and Fastening Instrument With Adaptive User Feedback" Reference is made to Serial No. 11/343,447, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Other examples are disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. (KLNG No. 050704/ END 5 779 US NP) filed on Jun. 27, 2006, to Shelton, et al., entitled "Manually Driven Surgical Cutting and Fastening Instrument" (KLNG No. 050704/END5779 USNP) The relevant parts of the case are incorporated herein by reference.

Figure 50 is an exploded view of a terminal effector 1512 in accordance with a number of non-limiting embodiments. As shown in this exemplary embodiment, the end effector 1512 can include a long channel 1520 of a predetermined size for receiving a pneumatically operated tool. The pneumatic operating tool of each non-limiting embodiment includes a magazine 50 operatively supporting a firing device 〞 internally. This embodiment includes a wedge sled assembly 1530 having a knife portion 1538 thereon. The wedge sled assembly 1530 is screwed onto a screw drive screw 1560. A bearing 1522 at one of the distal ends 1521 of the long channel 1520 receives the screw drive screw 1560, allowing the screw drive screw 1560 to freely rotate relative to the long channel 1520. The screw drive screw 1560 can interface with a threaded opening (not shown) of one of the wedge sled assemblies 1530 such that rotation of the drive screw 1560 causes the wedge sled assembly 1530 to be in a fully extended or actuated position with a complete The distal or proximal translation (depending on the direction of rotation) between the retracted or unactuated positions passes through the long channel 1520, wherein the staples supported in the magazine in the fully extended or activated position have all been Fired. Accordingly, when the screw drive screw 1560 is rotated in one direction, the wedge slider assembly 1530 is driven distally through the magazine 50 to cut the tissue clamped in the end effector 1512 and fire the staples in the staple cartridge 50. The staples are brought into forming contact with the bottom surface of the anvil 40 that is pivotally coupled to the elongated channel 1520. The skid portion 1532 of the wedge sled assembly 1530 can be made, for example, of plastic and can have a slanted distal surface 1534. As the wedge sled assembly 1530 traverses the long channel 1520, the angled forward surface 1534 can push or push the staples within the magazine 50 up through the clamped tissue and against the anvil 40. The anvil 40 flips the staples to staple the severed tissue. When the wedge sled assembly 1530 is retracted, the knife portion 1538 and the sled portion 1532 can become separated, leaving the sled portion 1532 distal of the long channel 1520. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other pneumatically operated tools and other firing mechanisms can be used.

51 and 52 illustrate a drive shaft configuration for transmitting rotational motion from a pneumatic motor in the handle assembly 300 to a screw drive screw 1560. As seen with reference to Figure 51, this embodiment can utilize the closure tube assembly 170 detailed above. The closure tube assembly 170 is slidably sleeved over a ridge assembly 1540 that includes a proximal ridge segment 1542 that rotatably supports a main rotating (or proximal) drive shaft 1544, the main drive shaft A helical gear assembly 1550 including gears 1552, 1554, 1556 is associated with a primary (or distal) drive shaft 1546. The secondary drive shaft 1546 is coupled to a drive gear 1548 that engages one of the proximal drive gears 1562 of the screw drive screw 1560. The vertical helical gear 1552 is pivotally supported within one of the openings 1543 in the distal end of the proximal spine 1542. The secondary drive shaft 1546 and the drive gears 1548, 1554 can be closed by a distal spine 1570. In summary, main drive shaft 1544, secondary drive shaft 1546, and joint assembly (e.g., helical gear assembly 1550) are sometimes referred to herein as 〝 main drive shaft assemblies 〞.

As shown in Figures 53 and 54, each embodiment of the appliance 1500 is powered by an aerodynamic source in the form of a source of pressurized gas 620. In the embodiment shown in these figures, source 620 includes a replaceable/refillable gas cylinder 622 that is supported within grip portion 642 of housing assembly 300. The gas cylinder 622 can be refillable. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable/refillable pressurized gas source (a gas cylinder) can also be utilized effectively. In other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 for supplying pressurized gas from an external pressurized gas source 618. For example, the appliance 1500 can be coupled to a compressed air line (not shown) of the facility via a flexible air supply line 617. See Figure 53A.

The unique novelty of the removable/refillable gas cylinder 622 is described in more detail below. However, to explain how the transmission system provides rotational motion to the end effector 1512, it can be seen that pressurized gas flows under pressure from a gas cylinder 622 or an external pressure source 618 through a gas supply line 650 into a conventional proportional valve 660. The proportional valve 660 is coupled to a gas supply link 662 attached to a start trigger 670. See Figures 53 and 58. In various embodiments, the trigger trigger 670 is supported adjacent a travel monitoring member or relative position firing trigger 310' that is comprised of a pivot pin 370 extending between the right housing member 320 and the left housing member 330. The handle assembly 300 is pivotally coupled. The relative position trigger 310' can be made of plastic or other suitable material and has a portion having a generally U-shaped cross-section to accommodate the trigger trigger 670 as shown. The clinician can place his or her hand on the grip portion 342 of the housing assembly 300 such that the lower three fingers are on the relative position trigger 310' and the index finger is on the activation trigger 670. Pressing the trigger 670 inwardly toward the relative position trigger 310' causes the proportional valve 660 to allow gas to flow from the source 620 (or 618 of Figure 53A) through the valve to a supply line 680 into the directional control valve 1610 under pressure.

As shown in FIG. 56, the directional control valve 1610 has a forward position section 1620, a stop section 1630, and an inverted section 1640. Control valve sections 1620, 1630, 1640 can be manually switched by buttons 1612 and 1614 that protrude through handle housing 300. See Figures 49 and 56. Two supply/exhaust lines 1700, 1710 extend from directional control valve 1610 to a conventional air motor 1730. Thus, when the clinician switches the control valve 1610 to the advanced position, the advancement passage 1622 allows pressurized gas to flow from the supply line 680 into the supply/exhaust line 1700 causing the air motor 1730 to drive the motor drive shaft 1732 in a first direction. (As will be further detailed below), this causes rotational motion to be transmitted to the drive shaft 1544, which drives the wedge sled assembly 1532 and the knife portion 1538 distally through the end effector 1512 during a firing stroke. Gas exiting the air motor 1730 via the air supply line 1710 is discharged through an exhaust port 1632. When the control valve 1610 is switched to the inverted position, gas passing through the supply line 680 is allowed to flow into the air motor 1730 through the supply line 1710. Gas exiting the air motor 1730 via the air supply/exhaust line 1700 is exhausted through the exhaust port 1632. When the control valve is in the stop position, the supply line 680 and the supply/exhaust line 1710 are closed and the supply line 1700 is connected to the exhaust port 1632. See Figure 56.

As further shown in FIG. 56, the output shaft 1732 of the air motor 1730 can have a first drive gear 1734 thereon that engages a second drive mounted to an input shaft 1738 of a planetary gear assembly 1740. Gear 1736. The planetary gear assembly 1740 has an output shaft 1742 that is coupled to the proximal end 1545 of the drive shaft 1544 by a conventional coupling member 1743 to transmit rotational motion to the proximal end of the drive shaft. Thus, when the control valve 1610 is switched to the advanced position, the output shaft 1732 of the air motor 1730 transmits a rotational motion to the drive shaft 1544 through the gears 1734, 1736 and the planetary gear assembly 1740 to thereby cause the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife. Portion 1538 severes the tissue clamped in end effector 1512 by staples 50 and urges the staples in staple cartridge 50 into forming contact with anvil 40. When the control valve 1610 is switched to the inverted position, the output shaft 1732 of the air motor 1730 applies a reverse rotational motion to the drive shaft 1544 to retract the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife portion 1538 in a proximal direction through the magazine 50. .

The embodiment shown in Figures 49-56 also has further unique and novel features that enhance the operability of the instrument and provide multiple forms of feedback to the clinician, enabling the clinician to monitor the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife portion 1538 in the nail file. The position within the nail nipple when propelled and retracted distally within 50 degrees. Referring again to Figure 56, it can be seen that a feedback gear 1750 is provided on the drive shaft 1544 or on the output shaft 1742 of the planetary gear assembly 1740. The feedback gear 1750 is engaged with a tool position gear 1752 mounted on a threaded knife position shaft 1754. The knife position axis 1754 can be supported by a suitable bearing arrangement (not shown) that facilitates its free rotation. A proximal restriction switch 1760 is coupled to the proximal end 1756 of the shaft 1754, and a distal restriction switch 1770 is coupled to the distal end 1758 of the shaft 1754. A knife indicator 1780 is threaded onto the knife position axis 1754 for distal and proximal movement on the knife position axis. When the drive shaft 1544 is caused to cause the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife portion 1538 to rotate distally through the magazine 50, the knife indicator 1780 also moves proximally toward the distal limit switch 1770. The distal limit switch 1770 is oriented such that when the wedge sled 1530 and the knife portion 1538 are in the most distal position, the knife indicator 1780 actuates the distal limit switch 1770. A window is provided to the left housing member 330 (or the right housing member 320, depending on the position of the knife position axis 1754 within the housing assembly 300) such that the clinician can see the position of the knife indicator 1780 to determine the firing mechanism (Wedge assembly 1530 and knife portion 1538) are positioned within their firing stroke and provide the clinician with means to monitor the position of wedge assembly 1530 during the retraction stroke.

Again, in various embodiments, a distal auxiliary line 1772 extending from the gas supply line 650 to the distal limit switch 1770 can be provided. A distal limit switch line 1774 can be provided between the distal limit switch 1770 and the directional control valve 1610. Thus, when the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife portion 1538 have completed the firing stroke and the knife indicator 1780 actuates the distal limit switch 1770, the distal limit switch 1770 permits gas to flow from the supply line 650 to the distal limit switch under pressure. Line 1774 flows into directional control valve 1610, which in various embodiments causes directional control valve 1610 to automatically switch to the inverted position and thus cause air motor 1730 to reverse and ultimately apply a reverse rotational motion to drive shaft 1544. When the air motor 1730 reverses the drive shaft 1544, the reverse rotational motion is transmitted to the knife position shaft 1754 to thereby drive the knife position indicator 1780 to move back toward the proximal limit switch 1760. A proximal auxiliary line 1662 can also extend between the proximal limit switch 1660 and the air supply line 650, causing the knife position indicator 1780 to actuate the proximal limit switch 1660 (meaning that the wedge sled 1530 and the knife portion 1538 have been moved to When it is fully retracted, the proximal limit switch 1660 thus permits gas to flow into a proximal limit switch line 1664 and into the directional control valve 1610 thereby causing the directional control valve 1610 to automatically switch to the stop position.

In various embodiments, a first whistle 1790 or other suitable sounding device can be in communication with the distal limit switch line 1774 (or the distal limit switch 1770) such that when the distal limit switch 1770 is actuated at the end of the firing stroke The air passing through the distal limit switch line 1774 causes the first whistle 1790 to provide an audible signal to the clinician indicating that the wedge sled/knife has reached the end of the firing stroke. Similarly, a second whistle 1792 or other suitable sounding device can be in communication with the proximal restriction switch 1760 such that when the proximal restriction switch 1760 is actuated at the end of the retraction stroke, air is caused by the proximal restriction switch line 1764. The second whistle 1792 provides the clinician with another audible signal indicating that the wedge sled/knife has reached the end of the retraction stroke. In other embodiments, for example, a battery powered light emitting diode or other signaling device can be associated with the distal and proximal limit switches 1770, 1760 to provide the user with a wedge sled/tool that has reached the firing stroke and / or another indication of the end of the retraction stroke. In an alternate embodiment, the whistle 1790, 1792 can be replaced with a pressure sensor or pressure gauge to indicate when the device reaches the end of the firing stroke and/or the retraction stroke.

In the various embodiments illustrated in Figures 49-56, the air motor is supported within the handle assembly 300. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 52A and 52B, air motor 1730' is located within distal ridge segment 110. The motor drive shaft 1546' has a drive gear 1548' thereon that engages the proximal drive gear 1562 of the screw drive screw 1560. Figure 52A illustrates the use of the distally mounted air motor with a joint joint 104 as previously described. The embodiment shown in Figure 52B uses a pneumatic articulated joint assembly 2002 as previously described. These distally mounted air motor configurations can also be used with appliances that use other articulated joint configurations, or with an end effector that does not move articulated relative to the handle assembly or its attached long shaft assembly. use. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that such remotely mounted air motor configurations minimize the power loss that may be encountered in an embodiment through an elongated drive shaft configuration in which the motor is supported within the handle assembly and fired and retracted. Movement must be transmitted to the end effector via the joint. Embodiments such as those illustrated in Figures 52A and 52B require only two lines 1710 and 1760 to pass through the joint joint to energize the motor 1730'. Lines 1710 and 1760 can include flexible tubing or the like and do not limit the articulation joint as compared to other embodiments that require one or more transmission members to pass through the joint.

Moreover, embodiments of the present invention can be constructed to provide a tactile feedback to the user regarding the relative position of the firing assembly of the appliance. In some embodiments, this is accomplished by attaching the travel monitoring member or relative position trigger 310' to the forward and retracted motion of the drive shaft or firing mechanism applied to the device. More specifically, and with reference to Figures 53-55, this embodiment can include a feedback link assembly 1800 that can include a threaded manual feedback shaft 1801 in various non-limiting embodiments. The shaft can be threadedly attached to a nut member 334 that is rotatably mounted on one of the attachment plate portions 332 on one of the relative position triggers 310'. The distal end of the manual feedback shaft 1801 has a universal joint portion 1802 that supports a manual feedback gear 1804 that engages the knife position gear 1752. When the directional control valve 1610 is in the advanced position, the air motor 1730 drives the drive shaft 1544 causing the firing mechanism in the form of a wedge sled 1530 and knife portion 1538 to be driven distally through the cylinder (striking stroke). The feedback gear 1750 drives the knife position gear 1752, and the knife position gear drives the manual feedback gear 1804. The manual feedback gear 1804 then rotates the manual feedback shaft that pulls the relative position trigger 310' toward the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300 due to its threaded engagement with the nut 334, thereby providing the clinician with a representative slip The skid 1530 and the knife portion 1538 advance the 〝 tactile 〞 indication. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that if the clinician attempts to pivot the relative position trigger 310' toward the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300, the manual feedback shaft 1801 and nut 334 will prevent any movement thereof. However, the relative position trigger 310' will automatically pivot with respect to the advancement and retraction of the wedge sled 1530 and the knife portion 1538. This configuration provides the clinician with an automatic tactile indication of the advancement and retraction of the wedge sled assembly 1530 and the knife portion 1538 (striking mechanism) that can be obtained by grasping the relative position trigger 310' throughout the surgical procedure. Therefore, the clinician can get this feedback without looking at anything. This configuration provides the clinician with a one-handed non-visual feedback of the firing mechanism between the unactuated position and the activated position and when the firing mechanism returns from the activated position to the unactuated position.

Embodiments may further have another haptic feedback configuration, generally designated 333. For example, as shown in FIGS. 53-56, the attachment plate portion 332 above the relative position trigger 310' can be provided with a series of designs designed to pivot relative to the position trigger trigger 310' about the pin 370 during the firing and retracting strokes. Slots 335, stops, grooves, and the like that interface with one of the spring arms 337 in the handle assembly 300. When the upper attachment plate portion 332 pivots with the relative position trigger 310', the end of the spring arm 337 falls into each of the sequential slots 335 and serves to (sequentially) apply a force to the upper attachment plate portion. 332, this force can be felt when the clinician grasps the relative position trigger 310'. Thus, as the relative position trigger 310' advances, the clinician will obtain a series of additional tactile feedback movements corresponding to the movement of the firing mechanism to confirm that the relative position trigger 310' (and the final firing mechanism) is propelling or retracting during the firing stroke. Retracted during the trip, no matter what the circumstances. Again, as the end of the spring arm 337 falls into each of the sequential slots, this may create a sound, click, etc. to provide the clinician with an audible feedback regarding the movement of the firing mechanism through the firing stroke and the retraction stroke. Thus, this embodiment provides a series of (at least two) sounds relating to the movement of the firing mechanism between the unactuated position and the activated position.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the appliance 1500 presents an improvement over the conventional pneumatic inner cutter configuration. For example, embodiments provide a means for a clinician to monitor the position at which the firing mechanism (wedge sled/knife) is driven through its firing stroke. In some embodiments, the wedge sled/knife automatically retracts as it reaches the end of its firing stroke. Once in the fully retracted position, the control valve can automatically switch to a stop position to interrupt the supply of air from source 618 or 620 to air motor 1730. However, if the clinician wants to stop the wedge sled/tool advancement in the cylinder during the start-up process, he or she can simply manually switch the control valve 1610 to the inverted position and continue to actuate the trigger 670 to the air motor 1730. The pressurized gas is supplied until the wedge sled/tool moves to the desired retracted position. In addition, the unique and novel relative position trigger 310' provides the clinician with a perceptible manual or tactile feedback when the clinician grasps the relative position trigger 310'. Also, the clinician can obtain an audible signal when the wedge sled/knife has reached the end of the firing stroke and/or has been fully retracted.

Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that the unique novel advantages provided by the stroke monitoring device can also be achieved by using a drive member 500, 800 or bellows assembly 900 by a push/pull flexible cable (not shown) or Rigid members (for non-joint embodiments) connecting each of these transmission members to the upper attachment plate portion 332 or other portion of the relative position trigger 310' causes the drive members to advance and retract directly or indirectly Obtained in a manner that is coupled to the relative position trigger 310'. This unique and novel configuration can also be used with the embodiments described below with reference to Figures 70-83.

As previously discussed, the feedback link assembly 1800 automatically moves the relative position trigger 310' at a rate corresponding to the rate of movement of the firing mechanism to provide the clinician with a means for monitoring the progress of the firing mechanism, the return link Assembly 1800 can utilize threads or other devices that would effectively block or substantially limit the ability of the clinician to manually pivot relative position trigger 310'. In these non-limiting embodiments, the relative position trigger 310' will move only when the feedback link assembly is moved. In still other embodiments, a motor (not shown) or another gas cylinder (not shown) configured to prevent any relative pivot trigger 310' from acting when actuated may be utilized. Manual movement of the relative position trigger 310' is prevented. For example, the presence of force on the trigger 670 will cause the gas to be released, but before the firing mechanism begins to move, the relative position trigger 310' is not allowed to move substantially, and in the event the firing mechanism stops moving, the relative position trigger 310' The movement will also stop.

However, in other various embodiments, the feedback link assembly 1800 can also be configured to provide the clinician with the ability to assist the transmission member in the form of a pneumatic motor 1730 during the firing stroke to enable the transmission to be desired by the clinician. The components add strength or prevent the firing mechanism from advancing. In such embodiments, for example, the feedback shaft 1801 can be formed with a trapezoidal thread or other thread configuration or configuration that would actually permit the clinician to apply pressure to the relative position trigger 310' and thereby A rotational force is applied to the shaft 1801 by its engagement with the nut 334. Since a rotational motion is applied to the shaft 1801, the clinician also applies a rotational force to the gear 1804 that engages the gear 1750 that is placed over the drive shaft 1544. Thus, if the firing mechanism encounters resistance, the clinician can apply mechanically generated power to the drive shaft 1544 by squeezing the relative position trigger 310'. If the clinician wants to slow or prevent movement of the firing mechanism, the clinician can apply a force to the relative position trigger 310', which then resists/slows rotation of the shaft 1801 and gear 1804 and ultimately resists/slows rotation of the drive shaft 1544.

The various embodiments described above are used in the form of a removable gas cylinder 622 in conjunction with a material storage member for supplying gas under pressure to operate the device. In several embodiments, the removable gas cylinder 622 can be filled with high pressure gas from the beginning and can be refilled. In other embodiments, the removable gas cylinder 622 can be non-refillable. For example, the gas cylinder 622 can include a conventional disposable gas cylinder filled with carbon dioxide. Once the gas cylinder is used up, the user removes it from the handle assembly and replaces it with a new fully loaded gas cylinder. Other useful gases are, for example, compressed air, carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ), nitrogen, oxygen, argon, helium, sodium hydride, propane, isobutane, butane, chlorofluorocarbons, dimethyl ether, Ethyl ethyl ether, nitrous oxide, hydrofluoroalkane (HFA): HFA 134a (1,1,1,2,-tetrafluoroethane) or HFA 227 (1,1,1,2,3,3, 3-heptafluoropropane). This configuration provides an improvement over conventional pneumatic surgical instrument configurations. However, the number of times the device is available depends on the volume of gas that can be stored in such a gas cylinder and the need to effectively maintain the sterility of the device.

The gas cylinder 622 used in other embodiments of the present invention stores a material that is non-gaseous, liquid at a storage pressure and that evaporates at least at a lower pressure when the device is actuated. Examples of the liquid which can be used in these examples include nitrous oxide, dimethyl ether, methyl ethyl ether, sodium hydride, propane, isobutane, butane, hydrofluoroalkane (HFA): HFA 134a (1) , 1,1,2,-tetrafluoroethane) or HFA 227 (1,1,1,2,3,3,3-heptafluoropropane), and carbon dioxide (CO ₂ ) at a higher pressure.

Figure 57 illustrates a non-limiting example of a gas cylinder 622 incorporating one of the liquids 624 previously described. The gas cylinder 622 can be made of steel, aluminum or other materials compatible with the liquid/vapor stored therein and capable of withstanding the internal pressure generated therein. When using an instrument of the type described herein, the clinician often flips the handle assembly 300 in a variety of positions, including upside down positions, to achieve the desired position of the end effector 12. Thus, in these embodiments, a diaphragm 626 is provided within the gas cylinder 622 to prevent undesired movement of the liquid from the gas cylinder 622 into the control system during such manipulation. The diaphragm 626 can be made of a material that blocks the passage of liquids but permits vapor 628 formed by the liquid to pass through the membrane 626. Thus, the clinician can freely manipulate the handle assembly 300 without the risk of liquid 624 entering the directional control valve 1610 and/or the air motor 1730. Although the gas cylinder 622 is shown in a unitary configuration, the gas cylinder 622 can be fabricated from two or more components to facilitate the installation of the liquid material 624 and the membrane 626 therein. A liquid tight seal between the various portions of the gas cylinder of this embodiment can be established using suitable sealing members. Further, a loading cartridge (not shown) may be provided to fill the gas cylinder 622.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 57, when the clinician switches the directional control valve 1610 to the advanced position and actuates the proportional valve 660, the pressure within the gas cylinder 622 is reduced. This pressure reduction causes the liquid 624 to begin to vaporize, and the vapor 628 passes through the diaphragm 626 and is used to power the various control systems described above. Thus, by reducing the pressure within the gas cylinder 622, the liquid 624 begins to vaporize and energizes the device with pressurized vapor 628.

Other embodiments may use liquids that require combustion to convert the liquid to its gaseous state. Examples of such liquids are propane, butane and other petrochemical products. A conventional button igniter or other igniter system can be utilized to ignite the liquid. In such applications, other components of the device may be fabricated from materials and means that are capable of safely dissipating any thermal energy/smoke thus produced. Still other embodiments may use phase change materials that are specifically designed to transition from a solid to a liquid, from a solid to a gaseous, or from a liquid to a gaseous via a heat input at low pressure and low temperature. Examples of such materials are paraffin wax and various mixtures of sodium. These phase change materials may have a large volume change with heat input to the system. Such devices use a device such as a burner to provide the necessary thermal energy to the material. Again, components that may be exposed to heat from these devices will be designed to safely dissipate heat during use and protect the clinician and be constructed from materials that achieve this goal.

The embodiment shown in Fig. 57 can be used with the various types of gas cylinders described above and provides many advantages over other embodiments in which the gas cylinder is permanently mounted within the handle assembly 300. More specifically, and referring to FIG. 57, the gas cylinder 622 can be received within a cavity 671 formed in the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300. In order to be able to access the cavity 671, the grip portion 342 can be made of two easily separable components or have a removable cover that is snapped or otherwise removably attached thereto (not shown) Show). In various embodiments, the drain end 630 of the gas cylinder 622 is threaded into a threaded opening 634 in one of the header blocks 632. The threaded opening 634 is in communication with an air supply passage 636 that is opened and closed by a needle valve 638. In particular, in various embodiments, the needle valve 638 is threaded into the header block 632 such that the supply passage 636 can be opened and closed by rotating the needle valve 638. However, other valve or flow control configurations are also possible.

To provide the clinician with an indication of the cylinder pressure during use, a conventional pressure gauge 640 can be installed in fluid communication with the air supply passage 636. A pressure gauge window 642 can be provided in the grip portion 342 to allow the user to view the pressure gauge 640 in use. See Figure 49.

As shown in Figures 57 and 58, the gas cylinder 622 can be supported within a detachable grip portion 342 that is removably attached to a primary attachment portion that projects downwardly from the main handle portion 340. 344. The removable grip portion 342 can be engaged with the primary attachment portion 344 by any suitable configuration. For example, in accordance with various embodiments, the engagement of the removable grip portion 342 with the primary attachment portion 344 can be accomplished by a linear sliding configuration as shown. As shown, for example, in Figures 57-59 and 61, the release grip portion 342 further includes first and second upper rails 367 and first and second lower rails 368. As also shown in these figures, the first upper rail 367 defines a ramp 369. The upper rail 367 is designed to be received within a corresponding region 384 defined by the panels 380 and 382 in the main handle portion 340.

The surgical instrument can further include a latching system 1900. The latching system 1900, such as shown in more detail in Figures 59 and 64-69, is configured to block the primary attachment portion 344 and the detachable grip portion after the detachable grip portion 342 is separated from the primary attachment portion 344 a predetermined number of times. 342 connection. This number of reservations can be any number of times. This configuration may be particularly advantageous to ensure that the sterility of the device is effectively maintained by limiting the number of times a device can be used. For example, in accordance with various embodiments, the latching system 1900 can block the primary attachment portion 344 from attaching to the detachable grip portion 342 after the detachable grip portion 342 is detached from the primary attachment portion 344 twice. Although the figure shows that the latching system 1900 is mostly located within the main housing portion 340, it should be understood that the latching system 1900 can be mostly located within the detachable grip portion 342 in accordance with other embodiments.

As shown in FIG. 59, the latching system 1900 includes a counter 1902, and a blocking assembly 1904 coupled to the counter 1902. The counter 1902 is configured to advance as the detachable grip portion 342 is detached from the primary attachment portion 344 of the handle assembly 300. As shown in Figure 59, the counter 1902 is coupled to a shaft 1906 that is supported by a hub 1908 that is coupled to the right housing member 320. The counter 1902 includes an indexing wheel 1910 coupled to the shaft 1906 and a biasing member 1912 coupled to the indexing wheel 1910. The biasing member 1912 can include, for example, a torsion spring configured to bias the indexing wheel 1910 in a counterclockwise direction. See Figure 59.

Indexing wheel 1910 defines projections 1914, 1914', 1914" that cooperate with barrier assembly 1904 to limit advancement of indexing wheel 1910. One of the projections 1914" is configured to be used with the barrier assembly 1904 cooperate to block the detachable grip portion 342 from attaching to the primary attachment portion 344 after the grip portion 342 is detached from the primary attachment portion 344 a predetermined number of times. Although the indexing wheel 1910 is illustrated as defining the protrusions 1914, 1914', 1914", it should be understood that the indexing wheel 1910 can define a gap that cooperates with the blocking assembly 1904 to limit the advancement of the indexing wheel 1910, according to other embodiments, and One of the gaps may cooperate with the barrier assembly 1904 after the grip portion 342 is detached from the primary attachment portion 344 a predetermined number of times to block the detachable grip portion 342 from attaching to the primary attachment portion 344.

The shaft 1906 is configured to permit the indexing wheel 1910 to be reset to a previous position. For example, the shaft 1906 can define a hexagonal opening 1916, and a hexagonal tool can be inserted into the hexagonal opening 1916 through an opening 1918 (shown in FIG. 60) of the left housing member 330, and then rotated in a clockwise direction. Thereby the indexing wheel 1910 is reset to a previous position.

As shown in FIG. 59, the barrier assembly 1904 includes a barrier member 1920, a barrier member guide 1922, a gate member 1924, and a biasing member 1926. The shutter member 1924 is in contact with the barrier member 1920, is pivotally coupled to the barrier member guide 1922, and cooperates with the projections 1914, 1914', 1914" to limit the advancement of the indexing wheel 1910. The biasing member 1926 is coupled to the gate member 1924. The biasing member 1926 can include, for example, a torsion spring configured to bias the gate member 1924 in a clockwise direction. The operation of the latching system 1900 is described in greater detail below with respect to Figures 64-69.

As shown, for example, as shown in Figures 59-63, the handle assembly 300 includes a release system 1930 that is configured to initiate the detachable grip portion 342 from the primary attachment portion 344. The release system 1930 is located within the primary attachment portion 344 and includes a release button 1932, and first and second release members 1934 that are coupled or integrated with the release button 1932. The first and second release members 1934 each define a release ramp 1936. The release system 1930 further includes first and second release pins 1938 in contact with the respective release ramps 1936, first and second lock springs 1940 in contact with the first and second release pins 1938, and slides with the first and second lower portions The rails 368 are in contact with the first and second ejecting springs 1942. See Figure 62. As shown in FIG. 59, the free end 1941 of the spring 1940 extends through a corresponding hole 331 of one of the right housing member 320 and a corresponding hole 331 of the left housing member 330 into the corresponding hole 372 of the upper rail 367. The detachable grip portion 342 is held in engagement with the primary attachment portion 344.

To initiate the action of the detachable grip portion 342 from the grip attachment portion 344, the release button 1932 is advanced, causing the first and second release members 1934 and the corresponding release ramp 1936 to also advance. As the release ramp 1936 advances, the release ramp 1936 causes the first and second release pins 1938 to change position. A change in the corresponding position of the first and second release pins 1938 causes the first and second lock springs 1940 to move upwardly out of the aperture 372 of the upper rail 367 by a sufficient amount to allow the first and second upper rails 367 to disengage therefrom. Engagement with the lock spring. As the detachable grip portion 342 is removed from the primary grip attachment portion 344, the first and second ejector springs 1942 each release their stored energy to apply the first and second lower slides 368, respectively. Give a force. This force assists the detachable grip portion 342 from being disengaged from the primary grip attachment portion 344. It should be understood that in accordance with other embodiments, the release system 1930 can include other components and/or configurations suitable for initiating the release of the removable grip portion 342 from the primary grip attachment portion 344.

Referring to Figures 57 and 58, a distal end 637 of the air supply passage 636 has a point 639 formed thereon to enable the distal end 637 to pierce the sterile sealing membrane 646 mounted in one of the primary attachment portions 344 in the closed tube collection chamber 644. . In particular, the distal end 637 of the air supply passage 636 is inserted through one of the pockets 645 of the manifold 644. The sterile membrane 646 can be made of any suitable puncturable material that can be sterilized, with a substantially liquid or hermetic seal therebetween as the distal end 637 of the gas supply passage 636 is inserted therethrough, and is far from the gas supply passage 636. The sterility of the area within the tube collection chamber 644 is maintained while the end 637 is removed.

As also shown in FIGS. 57 and 58, the supply line 650 is fluidly coupled to the manifold 644 such that pressurized gas entering the manifold 644 from the supply line 636 flows into the supply line 650. FIG. 57 illustrates the detachable grip portion 342 attached prior to the primary attachment portion 644. FIG. 58 illustrates the grip portion 342 attached to the primary attachment portion 344. As shown in Figure 58, the distal end 637 of the air supply passage 636 has pierced the sterile diaphragm 646. To assist insertion of the distal end 637 of the air supply passage 636 through the sterile diaphragm, a compression spring 649 is provided between the wall of the removable grip portion 342 and the tube header block 632. This configuration provides some of the elastic ridges to the header block 632 as the distal end 637 of the air supply passage 636 is inserted through the diaphragm 646.

Figures 64-69 illustrate the relative positions of the components of the latching system 1900 at different times during the attachment/separation procedure. Figure 64 illustrates the relative position of the grip portion 342 prior to first fully engaging the primary attachment portion 344. The shutter member 1924 is in contact with the projection 1914 to prevent the indexing wheel 1910 from advancing.

The grip portion 342 is attached to the attachment portion 344 by the slide rail 637 being pushed into the corresponding passage 384. The barrier member 1920 extends through one of the apertures 381 of the panel 380 into one of the channels 384. See Figure 59. As the first and second upper rails 367 advance, the ramp 369 on one of the first upper rails 367 touches the barrier member 1920 and causes the barrier member to move upward toward the indexing wheel 1910. As the barrier member 1920 is advanced toward the indexing wheel 1910, the blocking member 1920 causes the shutter member 1924 to move away from the indexing wheel 1910. See Figure 65. As the first upper rail 367 and the ramp 369 continue to advance, the blocking member 1920 continues to advance toward the indexing wheel 1910. When the grip portion 352 is fully engaged with the main portion 351, the blocking member 1920 touches the projection 1914 that was originally in contact with the shutter member 1924, thereby preventing the indexing wheel 1910 from advancing as shown in FIG.

After the grip portion 342 begins to disengage from the primary attachment portion 344, the first and second upper rails 367 are advanced in opposite directions, and the slope 369 defined by the first upper rail 367 allows the barrier member 1920 to be removed from the indexing wheel 1910. As the barrier member 1920 is removed from the indexing wheel 1910, the barrier member 1920 allows the gate member 1924 to advance toward the indexing wheel 1910 and skip the protrusion 1914 as shown in FIG. As the grip portion 342 is detached from the primary attachment portion 344, the barrier member 1920 is moved away from the indexing wheel 1910 far enough to release its contact with the projection 1914 and allows the indexing wheel 1910 to rotate until a second projection 1914 'As shown in Fig. 68, contact with the shutter member 1924.

At this time, the counter 1902 has been advanced to a position, and the grip portion 342 can be attached to the main attachment portion 344 again. The attach/separate cycle can be repeated. Figure 68 illustrates a second reattachment procedure. When the grip portion 342 is fully engaged with the primary attachment portion 344, the barrier member 1920 touches the projection 1914 as shown in Figure 69" thereby preventing the indexing wheel 1910 from advancing. At the end of the second cycle, when the grip portion 342 is disengaged from the primary When the portion 344 is attached, the shutter member 1924 touches a third projection 1914" as shown in FIG. The third projection 1914" is configured to prevent the shutter member 1924 from being removed from the indexing wheel 1910 by the blocking member 1920, thereby preventing the primary attachment portion 344 from being reattached to the grip portion 342 (or attached to a replacement grip) According to these embodiments, the surgical instrument is effectively a two-use type of appliance. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the number of uses can be increased if the indexing wheel 1910 defines more protrusions or gaps. Other embodiments of the present invention lack the latching system 1900, but are constructed such that the panel 382, or other portion or portions of the handle assembly 300 are separated or otherwise disabled to prevent the grip portion 342 or other The grip portion is attached to the handle assembly again.

Figures 70-83 illustrate another unique novel pneumatic surgical cutting and fastening device 3010 in accordance with the present invention that provides the clinician with the ability to monitor the progress of the firing stroke while also providing the ability to manually retract the firing assembly of the device. This embodiment can be used in conjunction with the terminal effector 12 or other terminal effector configuration described above.

The elongate ridge assembly 3102 of this embodiment can include a proximal ridge segment 3104 attached to a distal ridge segment 3106. In an alternate embodiment, the elongated ridge assembly 3102 can comprise a single component. The elongate ridge assembly 3102 is generally hollow and non-movably coupled to the housing assembly 300. As shown in Figures 79 and 80, the proximal end 3105 of the proximal ridge can be attached by a right attachment post 3110 projecting from the right housing member 320 and a left attachment post 3112 protruding from the left housing member 330. In the housing assembly. The distal end of the elongate spine member 3102 can be coupled to the long channel 20 in the manner previously described.

Again, in this embodiment, an elongate closure tube 3190 extends from the handle assembly 300 to the end effector 12. The distal end 3192 of the closure tube 3190 has a penetrating horseshoe shaped aperture 3194 and is used to interact axially with the closure tube 3190 on the spine member 3102 in a manner described above in conjunction with the opening/closing tab 46 on the anvil 40.

As shown in FIG. 71, a shuttle assembly 3400 coupled to the closure trigger 302 by the linkage assembly 430 is supported within the main housing portion 340. The shuttle assembly 3400 can also be constructed from two components 3402, 3404 that are molded or otherwise fabricated from a polymer or other suitable material and designed to fit together. The components 3402, 3404 can be held together by fastening members and/or adhesives and/or bolts, screws, clips, and the like. The right portion 3402 of the shuttle assembly 3400 has a right stop flange section 3405 adapted to engage with a left stop flange section on the left portion 3404 of the shuttle assembly 3400 (in the figure) Not shown) cooperate to form a stop flange assembly that extends into a stop groove (not shown) of one of the proximal ends 3196 of the elongate closure tube 3190 in the manner previously described. The proximal end 3104 of the elongate ridge member 3102 extends into the opening 3403 formed in the distal end of the shuttle assembly 3400 and is extended by a right stop extending through the opening 3406 located in the right portion 3402 and the left portion 3404, respectively. The left stop pile 3112 of the pile 3110 and the opening 3408 is non-movably attached to the right casing member 320. In addition, the shuttle assembly 3400 is provided with laterally extending rails 3410, 3411. The track 3410 is configured to be slidably received within a corresponding track guide of one of the right casing members 320, and the track 3411 is configured to be slidably received within a corresponding track guide of one of the left casing members 330. Accordingly, the shuttle assembly 3400 and the closure tube 3190 can move axially relative to the ridge assembly 3102 attached to the handle assembly 300.

The axial movement of the shuttle assembly 3400 and the elongated closure tube 3190 in the distal direction (arrow 〝C〞) is generated by the closure trigger 302 moving toward the grip portion 342 of the handle assembly 300, and the shuttle assembly 3400 is near The axial movement in the lateral direction (arrow 〝D〞) is generated by the closure trigger 302 moving away from the grip portion 342. In various embodiments, the shuttle assembly 3400 is provided with a connector tab 3412 to which the closure link assembly 3430 is attached. See Figures 71 and 72. The closure link assembly 3430 includes a yoke portion 3432 that is pivotally pinned to the connector tab 3412 by a pin 3414. The closure link assembly 3430 further includes a closure arm 3434 that is pivotally pinned to a yoke assembly 304 formed on the closure trigger 302 by a closure pin 436 as shown in FIG. The closure trigger 302 is pivotally mounted within the handle assembly 300 by a pivot pin 306 extending between the right housing member 320 and the left housing portion 330.

When the clinician wants to close the anvil 40 and clamp the tissue within the end effector 12, the clinician pulls the trigger 302 to the grip portion 342. As the clinician pulls the closure trigger 302 to the grip portion 342, the closure link assembly 3430 moves the shuttle assembly 3400 in the distal 〝C〞 direction until the closure link assembly 3430 moves to the locked position shown in FIG. When in this position, the link assembly 3430 will tend to hold the shuttle assembly 3400 in the locked position. As the shuttle assembly 3400 is moved to the locked position, the closure tube 3190 is moved distally over the ridge assembly 3102, causing the closure/opening tab 46 on the anvil 40 to be closed by the horseshoe shaped hole 3194 of the distal end 3192 of the closure tube section 3190. The proximal end touches to pivot the anvil 40 to the closed (clamped) position. To further maintain the shuttle assembly 3400 in the closed position, a locking mechanism 301 as previously described can be used.

As previously discussed, embodiments of the present invention utilize a unique novel retraction lever assembly 4000 to enable a clinician to monitor the progress of the firing and retraction strokes and provide the ability to manually retract a firing bar 4030. As shown in FIG. 72, the retraction rod assembly 4000 includes a retraction rod 4010 that is slidably pinned to a push rod 4020. In particular, the retraction rod 4010 has a penetrating elongated slot 4012 that slidably receives two pins 4014 for a predetermined size to attach the retraction rod 4010 to the push rod 4020. A retractable grip 4016 can be attached to the proximal end 4011 of the retraction rod 4010.

The push rod 4020 has a distal end 4022 that is designed to interface with the proximal end of an elongate firing rod 4030. As shown in FIG. 72, the proximal end 4032 of the firing bar 4030 has a connector portion 4034 formed thereon that is sized to receive a corresponding one of the distal ends 4022 of the push rod 4020. . Thus, the push rod 4020 can be used to axially push the firing bar 4030 for a firing stroke in a distal direction or to pull the firing bar 4030 in a proximal direction for a retracting stroke. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the firing bar 4030 extends through the ridge assembly 3102. In an alternate embodiment, the firing bar 4030 can have a rectangular, square or similar cross-sectional shape and is attached to the distal end 31 of the tool assembly 30 as previously described or to a different type of arbor and other axes. An end effector assembly that acts on the motion.

72-77 include various figures of the shuttle assembly 3400. As shown in these figures, the left shuttle portion 3404 includes two spaced apart vertical support walls 3416, 3418 that define a push rod opening 3420 therebetween. The distal end 4022 of the push rod 4020 extends through the push rod opening 3420 to be coupled to the proximal end 4032 of the firing rod 4030. As shown in FIG. 72, the proximal end 4026 of the push rod 4020 is coupled to a 〝Z-shaped connector component 4040. In particular, the pusher proximal end 4026 has a connecting post 4028 projecting therefrom that can be received in one of the openings 4049 of the attachment tab 4042 of the proximal end 4041 of the Z-shaped connector component 4040. See Figure 72. However, the proximal end 4026 of the push rod 4020 can be attached to the attachment tab 4042 by a screw or other suitable tie. The distal end 4045 of the Z-shaped connector component 4040 has a distal attachment tab 4046 thereon that is adapted to be coupled to a piston cylinder 5040 that projects from a pneumatic cylinder assembly 5000.

As shown in FIG. 79, the cylinder assembly 5000 includes a first cylinder housing 5010 having a first closed proximal end 5012 and a first axial passage into the first cylinder housing 5010. The first open distal end 5014 within 5016. The cylinder assembly 5000 also includes a second cylinder housing 5020 having a second proximal end 5022 and a second open distal end 5024 that opens into a second axial passage 5026. The second proximal end 5022 has a first piston head 5028 formed thereon, the first piston head being sized relative to the first axial passage 5016 for generating a general relationship with the first wall 5011 of the first cylinder housing 5010. The hermetic sliding seal defines a first cylinder region 5015 between the distal side of the first proximal end 5012 and the proximal side of the first piston head 5028. The first distal end 5014 of the first cylinder housing 5010 further has an inwardly extending first flange 5017 formed thereon for establishing a substantially airtight relationship with the outer wall surface of the second cylinder housing 5020. The sliding seal defines a second cylinder region 5018 between the proximal side of the first flange 5017 and the distal side of the first piston head 5028.

A first passage 5027 penetrates the first piston head 5028. As shown in FIG. 79, a piston cylinder 5040 extends through the second open distal end 5024 of the second cylinder housing 5020 into the second axial passage 5026. The piston cylinder 5040 has a proximal end 5042 and a closed distal end 5044. A second piston head 5046 is formed on the proximal end 5042 of the piston cylinder 5040. The second piston head 5046 is sized relative to the second axial passage 5026 for creating a substantially airtight sliding seal with the second wall 5021 of the second cylinder housing 5020 to define a third cylinder region 5032. The second distal end 5024 of the second cylinder housing 5020 further has an inwardly extending second flange 5025 formed thereon for establishing a substantially airtight sliding seal with the piston cylinder 5040 for use in the second A fourth cylinder region 5034 is defined between the proximal side of the flange 5025 and the distal side of the second piston head 5030. An opening 5047 opens into the passage 5048 of one of the piston cylinders 5040 through the second piston head 5046.

As shown in Figures 79 and 80, the cylinder assembly 5000 is mounted within the housing assembly 300. A first air supply line or air supply conduit 5050 extends from one of the handle assembly 300 directional control valves 610 to be coupled to the first proximal end 5012 of the first cylinder housing 5010 for supplying pressurized gas through the first cylinder housing 5010 One of the first proximal ends 5012 is a first air supply port 5013 or an opening. In addition, a second air supply line or air supply conduit 5052 extends from the directional control valve 610 to the distal end 5014 of the first cylinder housing 5010 and is coupled to the first cylinder housing 5010 to thereby pressurize the gas via a second port 5029. It is fed into the second cylinder region 5018. See Figure 78.

Referring to Figures 78 and 79, the elongation and retraction of the firing bar 4030 will now be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 78, the supply lines 5050 and 5052 are coupled to a conventional directional valve 1610 that is part of a drive system 1600 that is housed within the handle assembly 300. The directional control valve 1610 has a forward position section 1620, a stop section 1630, and an inverted section 1640. Control valve sections 1620, 1630, 1640 can be manually switched by buttons 1612 and 1614 that protrude through handle housing 300. In various embodiments, a removable source of pressurized gas 620 is used. See Figures 71 and 81-83. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate that an irreplaceable/refillable pressurized gas source (a gas cylinder) can also be utilized effectively. In still other embodiments, the handle assembly 300 can be provided with a port 616 for supplying pressurized gas from an external pressurized gas source 618. For example, the appliance 3010 can be coupled to the compressed air supply 618 in the facility via a flexible air supply line 617. See Figure 81A.

Pressurized gas flows from a gas cylinder 622 (or external pressure source 618) through a gas supply line 650 to a conventional proportional valve 660. As shown in particular in FIG. 78, the proportional valve 660 is coupled to a supply air link 662 that is attached to a start trigger 670. In various embodiments, the trigger trigger 670 is supported adjacent the firing trigger 310 that is pivotally coupled to the handle by a pivot pin 370 extending between the right housing member 320 and the left housing member 330. Assembly 300. Pressing the trigger 670 inwardly toward the firing trigger 310 causes the proportional valve 660 to permit more pressurized gas to flow into the directional valve 1610 through a supply line 680. Depending on the position of the directional valve 1610, pressurized gas may flow into the supply line 5050 or 5052. For example, when the directional valve 610 is actuated by the clinician to extend the firing bar 30, the control valve 1610 is switched to the advanced position such that the advancement passage 1622 permits pressurized gas to flow from the supply line 680 into the supply line 5050. Gas flowing through the supply line 5050 passes through the first supply port 5013 of the closed end 5012 into the first cylinder region 5015 and through the opening 5027 in the first piston head 5028 and into the third cylinder region 5032. Pressurized gas entering the third cylinder region 5032 also enters the hollow piston cylinder 5040 through the opening 5047 of the second piston head 5046 and forces the piston cylinder 5040 to move distally. The gas located in the fourth cylinder region 5034 is exhausted through the exhaust port 5023 of the second cylinder housing 5020. Similarly, gas located within the second cylinder region 5018 is allowed to drain into the second gas supply line 5052 through the second opening 5029. The second gas supply line 5052 sends the vented gas to the passage 1624 of the directional valve 1610, thereby ultimately exiting the venting passage 1632. Continuous application of pressurized gas to the first cylinder region 5015, the third cylinder region 5032, and the passage 5048 of the piston cylinder 5040 causes the piston cylinder 5040 to extend distally as shown in FIGS. 73 and 79. As the piston cylinder 5040 extends distally, the Z-shaped connector 4040 also extends distally due to its attachment to the distal end 5044 of the piston cylinder 5040. The Z-shaped connector 4040 forces the push rod 4020 to move distally, thereby forcing the firing rod 4030 to also move distally. As the firing rod 4030 moves distally, the distal end portion 31 of the cutter assembly 30 attached to the firing rod advances through the magazine 50 to sever the tissue clamped by the end effector 12 and fire the staple. Once the tool assembly 30 has been advanced to its most distal position in the end effector 12, the clinician releases the activation trigger 670 to interrupt the application of pressurized gas.

This embodiment may also be provided with a means for indicating when the tool assembly 30 has reached its most distal position within the magazine 50. In particular, a distal auxiliary line 1772 extending from the gas supply line 650 to the distal limit switch 1770 can be provided. A distal limit switch line 1774 is provided between the distal limit switch 1770 and the directional control valve 1610. Thus, when the tool assembly 30 has completed the firing stroke, the distal limit switch 1770 is oriented relative to a portion of the cylinder assembly 5000 such that the cylinder assembly is partially actuated by one of the distal limit switches. The distal limit switch 1770 permits air to flow under pressure from the supply line 650 to the distal limit switch line 1774 and into the directional control valve 1610, which in various embodiments may cause the directional control valve 1610 to automatically switch to the inverted position, which The firing bar 4030 is retracted as described below. In various embodiments, a first whistle 1790 or other suitable sounding device can be in communication with the distal limit switch line 1774 (or the distal limit switch 1770) such that when the distal limit switch 1770 is actuated at the end of the firing stroke The first whistle 1790 is actuated by the air of the distal limit switch line 1774 to provide the clinician with an audible signal indicating that the tool assembly 30 has reached the end of the firing stroke. In an alternate embodiment, the whistle 1790 can be replaced with a pressure switch pressure gauge or the like to provide the clinician with an indication of when the tool assembly 30 has reached the end of the firing stroke.

To retract the firing bar 4030 by pneumatic force, the clinician can press the button 1612 to switch the control valve 1610 to the inverted position and begin the squeezing trigger 670, which causes pressurized gas to flow into the second gas supply line 5052. The flow of gas through the second gas supply line 5052 into the second cylinder region 5018 causes the second cylinder housing 5020 to retract proximally into the first cylinder housing 5010. The gas in the first cylinder region 5015 is allowed to be discharged into the first gas supply line 5040 via the first air supply opening 5013. Gas passing through the first gas supply line 5040 enters the directional valve 1610 and is thereby discharged from the vent 1632. Once the pressurized gas entering the second cylinder region 5018 has caused the second cylinder housing 5020 to retract into the first cylinder housing 5010, the gas passing through the second opening 5029 can now pass through the exhaust port of the first cylinder housing 5010. 5023 flows into the fourth cylinder region 5034. As the pressurized gas enters the fourth cylinder region 5034, the second piston head 5046 pulls the piston cylinder 5040 proximally into the second cylinder housing 5020. The gas in the third cylinder region 5032 enters the first cylinder region 5015 through the first opening 5027, thereby being drained in the manner previously described. As the piston cylinder 5040 is retracted, the Z-shaped connector 4040 moves proximally and then pulls the push rod 4020 and the firing rod 4030 attached thereto.

In various embodiments, a proximal auxiliary line 1662 also extends between a proximal limit switch 1760 and a supply line 650. The proximal limit switch 1660 is oriented relative to the cylinder assembly 5000 or the connector 4040 such that when the firing bar 4030 is fully retracted, the proximal limit switch 1760 is actuated and then permits air to flow into a proximal limit switch line 1764 and into the directional control valve. 1610 to cause the directional control valve 1610 to automatically switch to the stop position. In an alternate embodiment, a second whistle 1792 or other suitable audible device can be in communication with the proximal limit switch 1760 such that when the proximal limit switch 1760 is actuated at the end of the retraction stroke, the switch line 1764 is restricted by the proximal side. The air actuates the second whistle 1792 to provide the clinician with another audible signal indicating that the firing bar 4030 and the knife portion 30 have reached the end of the retraction stroke. In other embodiments, for example, a battery powered light emitting diode or other signaling device can be associated with the distal and proximal limit switches 1770, 1760 to provide the user with a wedge sled/tool that has reached the firing stroke and / or another indication of the end of the retraction stroke. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that if the clinician wishes to stop the firing stroke and retract the firing rod and tool during the firing stroke, he or she must manually switch the control valve 1610 to the inverted position.

In the examples described above, the clinician did not use the unique novel retraction bar assembly 4000 of this embodiment of the present invention. The retraction lever has several advantages. First, if during a firing or retracting stroke, the aerodynamic force is accidentally lost due to an empty gas supply bottle 620 or an unexpected interruption of the pressurized gas supply, the clinician can simply manually control the valve 1610. Switching to the inverted position, grasping the grip 4016 attached to the proximal end of the retraction rod and manually pulling the rod in the proximal direction until the firing rod has fully retracted manually retracts the firing rod (and the cutter assembly 30). See Figure 83. Switching the control valve 1610 to the inverted position causes the gas in the cylinder assembly to be drained when the shank is retracted.

Another advantage provided by this embodiment of the present invention is the ability to visually monitor the firing process of the firing rod and knife portion moving distally during the firing stroke. This advantage can be achieved simply by pulling the retraction rod to its most proximal position as shown in Figure 83 prior to initiating the firing stroke. When in this position, as the cylinder assembly 5000 pushes the connector 4040, the push rod 4020, and the firing rod 4030 distally, the push rod 4020 will follow the retracting rod 4010 by its pin connection with the retracting rod 4010. Pull it to the far side. In various embodiments, the length of the retraction rod 4010 is provided such that when the firing rod 4030 is fully extended, no portion of the retraction rod 4010 protrudes from the handle assembly 300. Therefore, the clinician can judge the progress of the firing bar 4030 and the cutter assembly 30 by observing the portion of the retracting lever 4010 that protrudes from the handle portion 300.

In the alternative embodiment shown in Figures 72A and 83A, the retraction rod 4010 can be provided with at least one, and preferably at least two, notches 4015 for receiving the pin 4014. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that this configuration provides the clinician with the ability to visually monitor the progress of the firing bar 4030 and the tool assembly 30 during the retraction stroke. In particular, as the firing bar 4030 is retracted, the pusher 4020 causes the retraction bar 4010 to advance proximally out of the housing assembly 300 as the pin 4014 engages the notch 4015. Accordingly, the clinician can determine the distance that the firing bar 4030 has traveled during the retraction stroke by observing the distance the retraction rod 4010 protrudes beyond the handle assembly 300. However, when the appliance is not in use, the retraction lever 4010 can be pushed into the handle assembly as shown in FIG.

Although a few embodiments of the invention have been described hereinabove, it is understood that many modifications, variations and adaptations may be For example, in accordance with various embodiments, a single component can be replaced with multiple components, and multiple components can be replaced with a single component to perform one or more known functions. The present application is therefore intended to cover all such modifications, changes, and adaptations, and the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

The device disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or it can be designed to be used multiple times. But in either case, the device can be re-adjusted for reuse after at least one use. The realignment job can include a combination of one of the following steps: disassembling the device, then cleaning or replacing a particular part, and then assembling. In particular, the device can be disassembled and any number of specific components of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. After the particular component is cleaned and/or replaced, the device can be re-assembled for subsequent use after a surgical procedure or by a surgical team immediately after a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the re-adjustment of the device can utilize many different techniques of disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. The use of such techniques and the resulting re-adjustment devices are all within the scope of this application.

Preferably, the invention described herein is processed prior to surgery. First, get a brand new or used appliance and clean the appliance if needed. The appliance can then be sterilized. In a sterilization technique, the device is placed in a closed sealed container such as a plastic bag or TYVEK Inside the bag. The container and device are then placed in a field of radiation that is capable of penetrating the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or higher energy electrons. This radiation kills bacteria on the device and in the container. The sterilized device is then stored in a sterile container. The sealed container holds the device sterile until the container is opened in the medical facility.

Any patents, publications, or any portion of the disclosure that is referred to in this specification as a whole or in part of this disclosure is intended to be inconsistent with the definitions, claims, or other disclosures set forth in this specification. The extent is incorporated herein. Therefore, and to the extent necessary, the contents explicitly set forth in this specification are substituted for any inconsistencies herein. Any content or part thereof that is incorporated herein but that contradicts the definitions, statements, or other public notices set forth in this specification will only be such that it does not cause a conflict between the portion of the incorporated content and the portion of the publicly available content. In.

The content of the present invention is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed herein. The examples are therefore to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. Changes and modifications may be made by others without departing from the spirit of the invention. Therefore, it is expressly intended that all equivalents, changes, and modifications are in the scope of the inventions.

10. . . Surgical stapling and cutting device

12. . . Terminal effector

20. . . Long channel

twenty one. . . Locking opening

twenty two. . . Attachment point

twenty three. . . Channel slot

twenty four. . . Recess

26. . . Recess

28. . . Anvil cam slot

30. . . Tool assembly

31. . . Distal part

32. . . Upper pin

33. . . hole

34. . . Knife cap

35. . . Piston rod

35’. . . Stepped part

36. . . Intermediate sales

37. . . Protruding

38. . . Cutting edge

39. . . Locking projection

39’. . . Proximal slope

39”...distal slope

40. . . anvil

42. . . Anvil

43. . . Anvil pivot

44. . . Longitudinal anvil slot

46. . . Anvil open/close tongue

50. . . Nail

51. . . Subject

54. . . Vertical slot

56. . . Nail on the upper surface

58. . . Nail hole

60. . . Narrowing feature

62. . . Narrowing feature

64. . . Wedge skid

66. . . Elbow actuator

68. . .匣托板

70. . . Elbow

100. . . Long shaft assembly

102. . . Ridge assembly

104. . . Pivot

110. . . Distal ridge

111. . . Distal square hole

112. . . Lock spring

113. . . Near square hole

114. . . Channel anchoring member

115. . . Pinch

116. . . Lock spring upper arm

117. . . Bellows channel

118. . . Lock spring lower arm

122. . . hub

123. . . Junction

124. . . hole

125. . . Junction

130. . . Proximal ridge

134. . . Shank

136. . . hole

138. . . Pivot pin

140. . . pin

142. . . pin

150. . . Belt member

160. . . Belt member

170. . . Closed tube assembly

172. . . Double pivot closure

174. . . Upper double pivot link

175. . . Distal pivot pin

176. . . Proximal pivot pin

177. . . Lower double pivot link

178. . . Distal pivot pin

179. . . Proximal pivot pin

180. . . Distal closed tube section

182. . . Upper tang

183. . . Pin hole

184. . . Lower tang

185. . . Horseshoe hole

186. . . Tab

187. . . Pin hole

190. . . Proximal closed tube segment

191. . . Axial channel

192. . . Upper tang

193. . . Pin hole

194. . . Lower tang

195. . . Pin hole

196. . . Stop groove

200. . . Joint controller

202. . . Live slider

204. . . frame

206. . . Closure

208. . . Slot

210. . . Junction

212. . . Junction

300. . . Handle assembly

301. . . Releaseable locking mechanism

302. . . Closing trigger

303. . . Flexible longitudinal arm

304. . . Yoke assembly

305. . . pin

306. . . Pivot pin

310. . . Fire trigger

310’. . . Relative position trigger

320. . . Right casing member

321. . . hole

322. . . Upper part of the right casing member

323. . . Upper part of the left casing member

324. . . The lower grip part of the right casing member

326. . . Right ridge assembly stop pile

328. . . Track guide

330. . . Left casing member

331. . . hole

332. . . Upper attachment plate section

333. . . Haptic feedback configuration

334. . . The grip portion on the lower side of the left casing member; the nut portion (Fig. 55)

335. . . Slot

337. . . Spring arm

340. . . Main housing part

342. . . Grip part

344. . . Main attachment

350. . . Opening

352. . . wedge

354. . . Under the wedge surface

356. . . Notch

358. . . Resilience

359. . . Inclined back wall of opening 350

360. . . Opening

367. . . Upper rail

368. . . Lower rail

369. . . Bevel

370. . . Pivot pin

372. . . hole

380. . . panel

382. . . panel

384. . . Upper slide rail storage passage

400. . . Closed shuttle

402. . . Right side of the shuttle

403. . . Fastening bolt

404. . . The left part of the shuttle

405. . . Right stop flange section

406. . . Slot

408. . . Slot

410. . . guide

411. . . guide

412. . . Connector tab

414. . . pin

430. . . Closed link assembly

432. . . Yoke part

434. . . Closed arm

436. . . Closing pin

500. . . Transmission member

501. . . Cylinder assembly

510. . . First cylinder housing

511. . . First wall

512. . . First proximal end

513. . . First gas supply

514. . . First far end

515. . . First cylinder area

516. . . First axial channel

517. . . First flange

518. . . Second cylinder area

519. . . Trunnion

520. . . Second cylinder housing

521. . . Second wall

522. . . Second proximal end

523. . . exhaust vent

524. . . Second far end

525. . . Second flange

526. . . Second axial channel

527. . . First channel

528. . . First piston head

529. . . Second gas supply

530. . . Second piston head

532. . . Third cylinder area

534. . . Fourth cylinder area

540. . . First gas supply line

540’. . . First gas supply line section

540"...first gas supply line section

541. . . pressure gauge

542. . . Second gas supply line

542’. . . Second gas supply line section

542"...second gas supply line section

543. . . window

545. . . Sound outlet

546. . . Limit switch

547. . . Starting member

549. . . Indicating component

600. . . Drive system

610. . . Directional control valve

612. . . switch

616. . . Pass

617. . . Flexible supply line

618. . . External pressurized gas source

620. . . Removable/refillable pressurized gas source

622. . . Gas cylinder

624. . . Liquid substance

626. . . Diaphragm

628. . . Vapor

630. . . Vacuum source; gas cylinder drain end (Figure 57-58)

632. . . Flexible vacuum line; tube set box (Figure 57-58)

634. . . Threaded mouth

636. . . Gas supply channel

637. . . remote

638. . . Needle valve

639. . . point

640. . . pressure gauge

642. . . Pressure gauge

644. . . Closed tube collection room

645. . . Pass

646. . . Sterile membrane

649. . . compressed spring

650. . . Gas supply line

651. . . Gas supply line

660. . . Proportional valve

662. . . Gas supply link arm

670. . . Start trigger

671. . . Cavity

680. . . Gas supply line

800. . . Cylinder assembly

810. . . First cylinder housing

812. . . First closed end

813. . . First gas supply

815. . . First cylinder area

817. . . First flange

820. . . Second cylinder housing

822. . . Second closed proximal end

824. . . Second far end

825. . . Second flange

827. . . First opening

828. . . First piston head

830. . . Second piston head

832. . . Third cylinder area

840. . . First gas supply line

850. . . First retracting spring

852. . . spring

900. . . Bellows assembly

902. . . remote

904. . . Protruding

910. . . Expandable/retractable bellows section

912. . . Wire confinement ring

912’. . . Starting member

914. . . Base part

916. . . Gas supply

920. . . Vacuum

922. . . Vacuum line

940. . . Gas supply line

940’. . . Gas supply line section

940"... gas supply line section

1000. . . Quick release connector

1000’. . . Quick release connector

1010. . . Distal shaft assembly

1012. . . Proximal

1020. . . Proximal shaft assembly

1022. . . remote

1030. . . Ridge assembly

1110. . . Distal ridge

1111. . . Distal square hole

1113. . . Near square hole

1114. . . Proximal

1115. . . Pinch

1116. . . Distal connector section

1117. . . First far air supply

1117’. . . Third far side air supply

1118. . . First air supply nozzle section

1118’. . . Third air supply nozzle section

1119. . . Notch section

1120. . . Second far air supply

1120’. . . Fourth far side air supply

1122. . . Second air supply nozzle section

1122’. . . Fourth air supply nozzle section

1124. . . Stop member

1126. . . Flexible tongue

1150. . . Proximal ridge

1152. . . remote

1154. . . Second connector part

1155. . . Notch section

1156. . . First proximal air supply

1156’. . . Third proximal air supply

1158. . . First O ring seal

1158’. . . Third O ring seal

1160. . . Second proximal air supply

1160’. . . Fourth proximal air supply

1162. . . Second O ring seal

1162’. . . Fourth O ring seal

1170. . . Hollow sleeve part

1172. . . Locking opening

1178. . . Closed tube assembly

1180. . . Distal closed tube section

1182. . . Proximal

1184. . . Locking tongue

1186. . . Locking wedge

1190. . . Proximal closed tube segment

1194. . . Locking opening

1195. . . Proximal

1196. . . Slot

1200. . . Release sleeve

1202. . . remote

1204. . . Release button

1206. . . Second beveled inner edge

1300. . . First far air supply

1306. . . Near-side gas supply

1308. . . O ring seal

1500. . . Surgical cutting and stapling instruments

1512. . . Terminal effector

1520. . . Long channel

1521. . . remote

1522. . . Bearing

1530. . . Wedge sled assembly

1532. . . Skid section

1538. . . Knife part

1540. . . Ridge assembly

1542. . . Proximal ridge

1543. . . Opening

1544. . . Main drive shaft

1545. . . Proximal

1546. . . Secondary drive shaft

1546’. . . Motor drive shaft

1548. . . Transmission gear

1548’. . . Transmission gear

1550. . . Helical gear assembly

1552. . . helical gear

1554. . . Transmission gear

1556. . . helical gear

1560. . . Drive screw

1562. . . Proximal drive gear

1570. . . Distal ridge

1600. . . Drive system

1610. . . Directional control valve

1612. . . Button

1614. . . Button

1620. . . Forward position section

1622. . . Forward channel

1624. . . aisle

1630. . . Stop section

1632. . . Exhaust gas

1640. . . Inverted section

1660. . . Proximal limit switch

1662. . . Proximal auxiliary line

1664. . . Proximal limit switch line

1700. . . Air supply/exhaust line

1710. . . Air supply/exhaust line

1730. . . Air motor

1730’. . . Air motor

1732. . . Output shaft

1734. . . First transmission gear

1736. . . Second transmission gear

1738. . . Input shaft

1740. . . Planetary gear assembly

1742. . . Output shaft

1743. . . Coupling member

1750. . . Feedback gear

1752. . . Knife position gear

1754. . . Knife position axis

1756. . . Proximal

1758. . . remote

1760. . . Proximal limit switch

1770. . . Distal limit switch

1772. . . Distal auxiliary line

1774. . . Distal limit switch line

1780. . . Knife indicator

1790. . . First flute

1792. . . Second flute

1800. . . Feedback link assembly

1801. . . Threaded manual feedback shaft

1802. . . Universal joint part

1804. . . Manual feedback gear

1900. . . Locking system

1902. . . counter

1904. . . Barrier assembly

1906. . . axis

1908. . . hub

1910. . . Index wheel

1912. . . Biasing member

1914. . . Protruding

1914’. . . Protruding

1914"...protrusion

1916. . . Hexagonal opening

1918. . . Opening

1920. . . Barrier member

1922. . . Barrier member guide

1924. . . Gate member

1926. . . Biasing member

1930. . . Release system

1932. . . Release button

1934. . . Release member

1936. . . Release the slope

1938. . . Release pin

1940. . . Lock spring

1942. . . Ejecting spring

2000. . . Surgical cutting and stapling instruments

2002. . . Pneumatic joint assembly

2004. . . Ridge assembly

2010. . . Distal ridge

2012. . . Proximal

2014. . . Pivot member

2016. . . Drive slice

2030. . . Proximal ridge

2032. . . remote

2034. . . Pivot bearing socket

2036. . . ditch

2038. . . ditch

2040. . . First vertical gas supply channel

2042. . . Third gas supply line

2042’. . . Third gas supply line section

2042"...third gas supply line section

2044. . . Third gas supply

2045. . . Third gas supply passage

2050. . . Second vertical gas supply channel

2052. . . Fourth gas supply line

2052’. . . Fourth gas supply line section

2052"...fourth gas supply line section

2054. . . Fourth gas supply

2055. . . Fourth gas supply passage

2060. . . cover

2062. . . Screw

2100. . . Switch assembly

2110. . . Switch block

2111. . . Pivot hole

2112. . . Gas supply

2113. . . Bottom surface of the switch block

2114. . . Switch cavity

2116. . . Gas supply channel

2118. . . Pipe box area

2130. . . Selector component assembly

2150. . . main part

2151. . . Pivot rod

2152. . . O ring seal

2153. . . Return rod

2154. . . O ring seal

2155. . . Undercut exhaust zone

2156. . . Short rod

2158. . . Selector handle

2160. . . Central gas supply

2170. . . Fourth exhaust passage

2180. . . Third exhaust passage

2190. . . Return spring

2192. . . Round protrusion

2193. . . Slot

2194. . . Round protrusion

2195. . . Slot

2196. . . Reversing the free end of the spring

2198. . . Reversing the free end of the spring

3010. . . Pneumatic surgical cutting and fastening device

3102. . . Ridge assembly

3104. . . Proximal ridge

3105. . . Proximal

3106. . . Distal ridge

3110. . . Right stop pile

3112. . . Left stop pile

3190. . . Closed tube

3192. . . remote

3194. . . Horseshoe hole

3196. . . Proximal ridge assembly

3400. . . Shuttle assembly

3402. . . The right part of the shuttle assembly

3403. . . Opening

3404. . . The left part of the shuttle assembly

3405. . . Right stop flange section

3406. . . Opening

3408. . . Opening

3410. . . guide

3411. . . guide

3412. . . Connector piece

3414. . . pin

3416. . . Vertical support wall

3418. . . Vertical support wall

3420. . . Pusher opening

3430. . . Closed link assembly

3432. . . Yoke part

3434. . . Closed arm

4000. . . Retracting rod assembly

4010. . . Retracting rod

4011. . . Proximal

4012. . . Slot

4014. . . pin

4015. . . Notch

4016. . . Retracting grip

4020. . . Putt

4022. . . remote

4024. . . Connector hole

4026. . . Proximal push rod

4028. . . Connecting pile

4030. . . Firing rod

4032. . . Proximal

4034. . . Connector part

4040. . . Z-connector part

4041. . . Proximal

4042. . . Attachment tongue

4045. . . Distal end of Z-connector component

4046. . . Distal attachment tongue

4049. . . Opening

5000. . . Pneumatic cylinder assembly

5010. . . First cylinder housing

5011. . . First wall

5012. . . First closed proximal end

5013. . . First gas supply

5014. . . First open distal

5015. . . First cylinder area

5016. . . First axial channel

5017. . . First flange

5018. . . Second cylinder area

5020. . . Second cylinder housing

5021. . . Second wall

5022. . . Second proximal end

5023. . . exhaust vent

5024. . . Second open distal

5025. . . Second flange

5026. . . Second axial channel

5027. . . First channel

5028. . . First piston head

5029. . . Second

5032. . . Third cylinder area

5034. . . Fourth cylinder area

5040. . . Piston cylinder

5042. . . Proximal

5044. . . Closed distal end

5046. . . Second piston head

5047. . . Opening

5048. . . aisle

5050. . . First gas supply line

5052. . . Second gas supply line

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a surgical cutting and fastening device of the present invention; Figure 2 is an exploded assembly view of an end effector configuration that can be used in conjunction with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 3 is a Figure 1 and a top view of the end effector, wherein the anvil portion has been removed therefrom and the closure tube assembly is depicted in phantom; FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector of FIG. 3 with the anvil portion attached thereto and in a Figure 5 is a top cross-sectional view of a portion of a joint controller that can be used in various embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6 is a top cross-sectional view of the joint of the end effector shown in Figure 1; An exploded assembly view of one embodiment of a closure tube assembly and a shuttle arrangement supported in a handle assembly, wherein other components housed within the housing assembly are omitted for simplicity; FIG. 8 is an illustration of the present invention. A cross-sectional view of a housing assembly configuration of various embodiments; FIG. 8A is a partial cross-sectional view of a portion of a closure trigger locking system that can be used with embodiments of the present invention; and FIG. 8B is another handle assembly embodiment of the present invention. Sectional view of the pressurized gas source at the handle Figure 8C is a cross-sectional view of another handle assembly embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 is another cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of Figure 8; Figure 10 is a arbor arrangement of a handle of the present invention; A side view of a firing transmission member including a two-stage cylinder assembly, wherein the cylinder assembly is shown in cross section; and Figure 11 is another side view of the arbor and two-stage cylinder arrangement of Figure 10, wherein the arbor 12 is a side view of another arbor and firing transmission member arrangement of the present invention, wherein the shank is being retracted into a cylinder assembly shown in cross section; FIG. 13 is the arbor shown in FIG. Another side view of the cylinder arrangement in which the shank is in the extended position; FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the end effector and ridge assembly for accommodating the cylinder and shank arrangement of FIGS. 12 and 13; FIG. 15 is a view of FIG. A side cross-sectional view of the end effector and ridge assembly with the anvil portion attached thereto in an open position; FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly that can be used with the embodiment of Figures 12-15; A handle assembly that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment shown in Figures 12-15 FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of another handle assembly embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a bellows assembly. FIG. 18 is a side cross-sectional view showing the arrangement of the end effector and the ridge assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. 17; FIG. 19 is a view of FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of a portion of the bellows assembly of FIG. 19; FIG. 21 is a handle assembly for use with the embodiment shown in FIGS. 17-20. Figure 21A is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a handle assembly that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment of Figures 17-20, wherein the source of pressurized gas is outside the handle assembly; Figure 21B is another embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view of another surgical cutting and fastening device according to another embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 23 is an end effector and ridge assembly of the embodiment shown in FIG. Side cross-sectional view; Figure 24 is a quick release of the embodiment of Figures 22 and 23. The joint is configured in a cross-sectional view before the distal shaft assembly is coupled to the proximal shaft assembly; Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view of the proximal shaft assembly taken along line 25-25 of Figure 24; Is a partial perspective view of a distal shaft assembly attached to a proximal shaft assembly, wherein a portion of the distal shaft assembly is omitted for simplicity; FIG. 27 is an embodiment of FIGS. 24-26 A side cross-sectional view of a joint assembly in which the distal shaft assembly has been coupled to the proximal shaft assembly; and Figure 28 is a portion of the distal shaft assembly attached to the proximal shaft. FIG. 29 is a partial cross-sectional view of another quick release joint arrangement that can be used in the embodiment of FIGS. 12-16A; FIG. 30 is a view taken along line 30-30 of FIG. A cross-sectional view of a side shaft assembly; Figure 31 is a perspective view of a portion of the proximal shaft assembly that can be used with the embodiment of Figures 22-30; Figure 32 is another surgical cutting and tightening of the present invention. A perspective view of a fixture utilizing a pneumatically actuated joint of one of the embodiments of the present invention; and FIG. 33 is an embodiment of FIG. 32 attaching a distal spine to a A partial perspective view of a portion of the joint joint of the side ridge segments; Figure 34 is another perspective view of the joint joint configuration of Figure 33 with the cover removed and illustrating the distal ridge segment for articulation relative to the proximal spine segment Figure 35 is an exploded assembly view of the joint assembly of Figures 33 and 34; Figure 36 is a side cross-sectional view of the joint assembly of Figures 33-35; and Figure 37 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the switch assembly of the present invention; Figure 38 is a side view of the switch assembly of Figure 37; Figure 39 is a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly of Figures 37 and 38 taken along line 39-39 of Figure 37; Figure 40 is a line 40 along Figure 38 -40 is a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly in the closed position; Figure 41 is another cross-sectional view of the switch assembly of Figure 37-40 in an activated position; and Figure 42 is taken along line 42-42 of Figure 41. Figure 41 is a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly; Figure 43 is a bottom view of the switch assembly of Figures 37-42; Figure 44 is a handle assembly having the switch assembly of Figures 37-43 and a source of pressurized gas Figure 45 is a cross-sectional view of the handle assembly having the switch assembly of Figures 37-43 therein, with the pressurized gas source outside the handle assembly Figure 46 is a perspective view of another surgical stapling and cutting device of the present invention, using the joint embodiment of Figures 33-36 and the quick release joint embodiment of Figures 23-31; Figure 47 is a The quick release joint of the embodiment of Figure 46 is configured in cross-section before the distal shaft assembly is coupled to the proximal shaft assembly; Figure 48 is an embodiment of Figure 47 taken along line 48-48 of Figure 47. FIG. 49 is a perspective view of another surgical cutting and fastening device of the present invention; and FIG. 50 is an exploded assembly view of an end effector configuration that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment shown in FIG. Figure 51 is an exploded assembly view of the end effector configuration, ridge assembly and closure tube assembly that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment of Figure 49; Figure 52 is an end effector, ridge assembly and closure tube of Figure 51; A side cross-sectional view of the same, wherein the anvil portion is omitted for simplicity; FIG. 52A is a side cross-sectional view of the end effector, ridge assembly and closure tube assembly of another non-limiting embodiment of the present invention. Where the air motor is supported away from the handle assembly; Figure 52B is another non-limiting aspect of the invention A side cross-sectional view of the end effector, ridge assembly and closure tube assembly of the embodiment, wherein the air motor is supported away from the handle assembly; FIG. 53 is a handle that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment of FIG. Figure 53A is a cross-sectional view of another handle assembly that can be used in conjunction with the embodiment of Figure 49, wherein the pressurized gas source is outside the handle assembly; Figure 54 is another cross-section of the handle assembly of Figure 53 Figure 55 is a side elevational view of a relative position firing trigger arrangement of various embodiments of the present invention; Figure 56 is a simplified view of an embodiment of the control system of the present invention that can be used in conjunction with various embodiments of the present invention; BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A cross-sectional view of one of the detachable grip portions of a main attachment portion of one of the embodiments of the handle assembly is shown; FIG. 58 is a view showing that the detachable grip portion is coupled to one of the handle portions of the embodiments of the present invention. Figure 59 is a partial cross-sectional view of the detachable grip portion and the main attachment portion of Figure 58, wherein the tube header and the cylinder-related components are omitted for simplicity; Figure 60 is a Figure 58 taken on line 60-60 of Figure 59 59 is a cross-sectional view of the detachable grip portion and the main attachment portion; and Fig. 61 is a cross-sectional view of the detachable grip portion and the main attachment portion of Figs. 58, 59 and 60 taken along line 61-61 of Fig. 59; Figure 62 is a cross-sectional view of the detachable grip portion and the main attachment portion of Figures 58-61 taken along line 62-62 of Figure 59; Figure 63 is a view taken along line 63-63 of Figure 59. Another partial cross-sectional view of the removable grip portion and the main attachment portion of the -62; Figure 64 is a simplified view of an embodiment of the latching system of the present invention in an initial position; and Figure 65 is another illustration of the latching system of Figure 64 A diagram illustrating the action of the latching system when the grip portion begins to attach to the primary attachment portion of the handle assembly; FIG. 66 is the primary attachment portion of the latching system of FIGS. 64 and 65 for the second removal of the handle assembly from the grip portion. Another simplified diagram of the prior; FIG. 67 is another simplified diagram of the latching system of FIGS. 64-66 illustrating the position of the system assembly when the grip portion has been attached to the primary attachment portion; FIG. 68 is the latch of FIGS. 64-67 Another simplified diagram of the system, which illustrates that the system components are attached to the main portion of the grip for the second time. Figure 69 is another schematic diagram illustrating a latching system after the grip portion has been attached a second time and last attached to the primary attachment portion; Figure 70 is another surgical cutting and fastening device of the present invention Figure 71 is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a handle assembly that can be used with the apparatus of Figure 70; Figure 72 is an exploded assembly view of the shuttle and retraction rod assembly of various embodiments of the present invention; Figure 72A Is an exploded assembly view of a shuttle and retractor assembly of another embodiment of the present invention; and FIG. 73 is a combination view of the assembly of FIG. 72, wherein the cylinder assembly is in a fully extended position; FIG. 74 is an invention. Rear view of the shuttle assembly; Figure 75 is another rear view of the shuttle assembly of Figure 74, with the retraction lever and the push rod extending into the push rod opening and the push rod attached to the connector member; Figure 76 is a shuttle A rear perspective view of the left portion of the assembly; Fig. 77 is another rear perspective view of the left portion of the shuttle assembly; and Fig. 78 is a simplified view of a control system configuration for the embodiment of Figs. 70-77. Figure 79 is a top cross-sectional view of the handle assembly configuration of the embodiment of Figures 70-78, The middle cylinder assembly is in an extended position; FIG. 80 is another top cross-sectional view of the handle assembly configuration of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 70-79, wherein the cylinder assembly is in a retracted position; FIG. 81 is a diagram 70-80. A cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of the illustrated embodiment; Fig. 81A is a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the handle assembly for use with the embodiment of Figs. 70-80, wherein the source of pressurized gas is outside the handle assembly; Figure 81 is another cross-sectional view of the handle assembly in which the cylinder assembly is elongated; Figure 83 is another cross-sectional view of the handle assembly of Figure 81 with the cylinder assembly retracted; and Figure 83A is an embodiment of Figure 72B. A cross-sectional view of the handle assembly in which the cylinder assembly is retracted and the firing rod is in its proximal most position.

10. . . Surgical stapling and cutting device

12. . . Terminal effector

100. . . Long shaft assembly

104. . . Pivot

200. . . Joint controller

300. . . Handle assembly

302. . . Closing trigger

310. . . Fire trigger

320. . . Right casing member

330. . . Left casing member

340. . . Main housing part

342. . . Grip part

612. . . switch

Claims (19)

A surgical instrument for use with a pneumatic tool having a firing mechanism operatively supported therein, the firing mechanism being movable between an unactuated position and an activated position, the surgical instrument comprising: a total handle And operably coupled to the pneumatic tool; a pneumatic drive system supported at least partially by the handle assembly and operatively associated with the pneumatic tool, the pneumatic drive system configured to respond to a fluid coupling The gas flow from the gas source of the pneumatic transmission system selectively applies at least one firing force to the pneumatic tool firing mechanism to cause the firing mechanism to move from the unactuated position to the activated position; and at least one feedback device Removably supported by the handle assembly and in communication with the pneumatic drive system to provide feedback regarding: (a) the process of moving the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position at the pneumatic drive system The amount of the firing force; and (b) when the firing mechanism is pneumatically moved between the unactuated position and the activated position, the firing The relative location of one configuration. The utility model of claim 1, wherein the amount of the force is substantially from the gas source to the pneumatic force when the pneumatic transmission system moves the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position. One of the gas flows of the transmission system is proportional to the pressure. The utility model as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one feedback device provides when the pneumatic transmission system removes the firing mechanism from the A visual indication of the amount of the firing force during the movement of the moving position to the activated position. The accessory device of claim 3, wherein the at least one feedback device comprises a pressure gauge fluidly coupled to a supply line that fluidly couples the gas source to the pneumatic transmission system. For example, in the patent device of claim 3, wherein the feedback device provides at least one sound having a basis for the amount of the firing force generated during the movement of the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position. Proportionalally changed pitch. The accessory device of claim 5, wherein the at least one feedback device comprises at least one orifice that couples the gas source fluid to one of the gas supply lines of the pneumatic transmission system. The utility model of claim 1, wherein the feedback device provides the firing mechanism in the unactuated position and the fired when the firing mechanism is moved between the unactuated position and the activated position by the pneumatic transmission system A visual indication of one of the relative positions between the actuation positions. For example, in the patent device of claim 1, wherein the at least one feedback device comprises: a first visual feedback device for indicating that the firing force moves the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the pneumatic transmission system An amount in the process of actuating the position; and a second visual feedback device for indicating a relative position of the firing mechanism when the firing mechanism moves between the unactuated position and the activated position. 2. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein the at least one feedback device includes a firing stroke indicator, the firing stroke indicator being in communication with the pneumatic transmission system to provide an indication when the firing mechanism has reached the activated position . The utility model of claim 9, wherein the pneumatic transmission system is further configured to selectively apply a retracting force to the pneumatic tool firing mechanism in response to another airflow from the gas source to cause the The firing mechanism moves from the activated position to the unactuated position, and wherein the firing stroke indicator is in fluid communication with the gas source and the flow control system of the pneumatic transmission system when the firing mechanism reaches the activated position The flow of gas that causes the flow to the pneumatic drive system is interrupted and the other air flow is permitted to flow to the pneumatic drive system to cause the pneumatic drive system to apply the retraction force to the firing mechanism. A surgical instrument for use with a pneumatic tool having a firing mechanism operatively supported therein, the firing mechanism being movable between an inactive position and an actuated position, the surgical instrument comprising: a transmission device Responding to a gas flow from a gas source fluidly coupled to the transmission device to selectively apply at least one firing force to the pneumatic tool firing mechanism to cause the firing mechanism to move from the unactuated position to the Actuation position; and means for providing feedback, which is in contact with the transmission device to provide feedback regarding: (a) the amount of the firing force during movement of the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position; and (b) when the firing mechanism is in the unactuated position and the activated position The relative position of one of the firing mechanisms when moving between pneumatics. A surgical instrument includes: a handle assembly; a closed drive train operatively supported by the handle assembly and configured to generate a closing motion and an opening motion; a long shaft assembly operatively coupled Attached to the handle assembly and associated with the closed drive train to divert the opening and closing motion; a pneumatic drive system supported by at least one of the handle assembly and the long axle assembly and configured for selection Optionally generating at least one of a firing force and a retracting force; an end effector coupled to the long shaft assembly, the end effector comprising: a long channel, the predetermined size being used for Storing a magazine therein; an anvil pivotally coupled to the long channel and pivotally responding to the opening and closing motion from the long shaft assembly; and a firing mechanism that is Operatively supported in one of the long channel and the magazine, and the returning force can be applied from one of the pneumatic transmission systems from an unactuated position to an activated position and can be retracted. Another application from the pneumatic drive system It has moved from the operative position to the non-actuated position, and wherein the The surgical instrument further includes: at least one feedback device in communication with the transmission system to provide feedback regarding: (a) in the process of moving the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position, The amount of the firing force; and (b) the relative position of the firing mechanism when the firing mechanism is pneumatically moved between the unactuated position and the activated position. A surgical device of claim 12, wherein the pneumatic transmission system includes a transmission member configured to generate a firing force in response to a flow of gas from a source of pressurized gas coupled thereto, and to generate a firing force The retracting force, and wherein the transmission member is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a pneumatic cylinder, a pneumatic bellows assembly and a pneumatic motor. The utility model of claim 12, wherein the pneumatic transmission system comprises: a pressurized gas source; a pneumatic transmission member fluidly coupled to the pressurized gas source; and a flow control switch fluidly coupled to the pneumatic A transmission member and the source of pressurized gas are used to control the flow of pressurized gas from the source of pressurized gas to the pneumatic transmission member. [0057] The foreign device of claim 14, wherein the at least one feedback device includes a firing stroke indicator that cooperates with the pneumatic transmission member to provide an indication when the firing mechanism has reached the activated position , the firing stroke indicator and the flow control The switch contact causes the firing stroke indicator to cause the flow control switch to interrupt the flow of gas to the pneumatic transmission member and permit the flow of the other air to the pneumatic transmission member to cause the firing mechanism to reach the actuated position The pneumatic drive member applies the retracting force to the firing mechanism. The apparatus of claim 15 , wherein the at least one feedback device further comprises: a first visual feedback device for indicating that the firing force moves the firing mechanism from the unactuated position at the pneumatic transmission member And a second visual feedback device for indicating a relative position of the firing mechanism when the firing mechanism moves between the unactuated position and the activated position. The instrument of claim 15 wherein the at least one feedback device further comprises a pressure gauge fluidly coupled to a supply line for fluidly coupling the gas source to the pneumatic transmission member. The apparatus of claim 15 wherein the at least one feedback device further comprises another feedback device for providing a sound, the sound having a basis for the movement of the firing mechanism from the unactuated position to the actuated position. The tone produced by the amount of the firing force that changes proportionally. The accessory device of claim 15, wherein the at least one feedback device further comprises at least one aperture for coupling the gas source fluid to one of the air supply lines of the pneumatic transmission member.