Integrated tissue positioning and jaw alignment features for surgical stapler

US9517065B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc. · US

Inventors

• Robert J. Simms · Monroe, US
• Douglas B. Hoffman · Cadiz, US
• Jason E. Zerkle · Blanchester, US
• Charles J. Scheib · Loveland, US
• Janna B. Volz · West Chester, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 28, 2013
• Grant date: Dec 13, 2016
• Expiry date: Feb 17, 2035

Classification

• Technology area (CPC A): Human Necessities
• CPC primary: A61B2090/0807
• WIPO field: Medical technology
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

An apparatus includes a body, a shaft in communication with the body, and an end effector in communication with the shaft. The end effector is operable to drive staples through tissue. The end effector comprises an anvil and a cartridge. The anvil is operable to move pivotally relative to the cartridge. The cartridge is positioned to drive staples upwardly toward the anvil. The cartridge comprises a plurality of protrusions operable to prevent lateral rocking of the anvil. The plurality of protrusions is pointed toward the anvil. In some versions, an alignment member and/or a lateral stabilization member may be used between the anvil and the cartridge.