Tissue thickness compensators

US9220501B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Chester O. Baxter, III · Loveland, US
• Frederick E. Shelton, IV · Hillsboro, US
• Katherine J. Schmid · Loveland, US
• Taylor W. Aronhalt · Loveland, US
• Gregory W. Johnson · Milford, US
• John L. Stammen · Cincinnati, US
• Gary W. Knight · Sharonville, US
• Christopher W. Widenhouse · Clarksville, US
• William B. Weisenburgh, II · Maineville, US
• Stephanie A. Mutchler · Loveland, US
• Timothy S. Bedard · Poway, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 28, 2012
• Grant date: Dec 29, 2015
• Expiry date: May 13, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2017/320052
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A two-part tissue thickness compensator assembly can include a first tissue thickness compensator configured to be positioned relative to an anvil of a surgical stapler, a second tissue thickness compensator configured to be positioned relative to a staple cartridge of the surgical stapler, and a hinge connecting the first tissue thickness compensator to the second tissue thickness compensator. The first and/or second tissue thickness compensators may include additional engagement features, such as a raised ridge that engages a slot in the anvil and/or the staple cartridge. In certain embodiments, the first and/or second tissue thickness compensators may include an encasement that contains a suitable biologic agent. An end effector assembly may be provided for attachment to a surgical instrument that includes, for example, a staple cartridge, an anvil, a first tissue thickness compensator positioned on the anvil, and a second tissue thickness compensator positioned on the staple cartridge.