Surgical stapling apparatus

US9211121B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Steven G. Hall · Cincinnati, US
• Randall J. Tanguay · Lebanon, US
• Jeffrey D. Messerly · Cincinnati, US
• Galen C. Robertson · Apex, US
• Andrew M. Zwolinski · Cincinnati, US
• Frederick E. Shelton, IV · Hillsboro, US
• Geoffrey C. Hueil · Cincinnati, US
• Mark S. Ortiz · Milford, US
• Douglas B. Hoffman · Cadiz, US
• Patrick A. Weizman · Monroe, US
• Dean B. Bruewer · Lancaster, US
• Gregory B. Blair · Cincinnati, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 13, 2015
• Grant date: Dec 15, 2015
• Expiry date: Jan 13, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/0813
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A stapling system for use with a surgical stapling instrument is disclosed. The stapling system comprises a staple cartridge, a staple cartridge carrier, and a first articulation joint defining a first articulation axis. The stapling system further comprises a second articulation joint defining a second articulation axis, an elongate shaft, and a shaft portion extending between the first articulation joint and the second articulation joint, wherein the shaft portion is pivotable relative to the elongate shaft about the second articulation axis. The stapling system further comprises, one, means for articulating the staple cartridge carrier about the first articulation axis and, two, a drive member operably supported with the staple cartridge carrier, wherein the drive member is selectively operable to eject staples from the staple cartridge.