Patent ID: 9039731
Filing Date: 2015-05-26
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A forceps, comprising: an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members movable relative to one another between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue therebetween; at least one handle coupled to the end effector assembly and movable between an open position and a closed position for moving the first and second jaw members between the spaced-apart position and the approximated position; a ratchet mechanism including first and second ratchet components, the first and second ratchet components configured to engage one another upon movement of the at least one handle to the closed position to retain the first and second jaw members in the approximated position; a knife selectively movable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the knife extends between the first and second jaw members to cut tissue therebetween; and a safety member biased towards a blocking position inhibiting extension of the knife when the first and second jaw members are disposed in the spaced-apart position, wherein upon movement of the first and second ratchet components into engagement with one another to retain the first and second jaw members in the approximated position, one of the first and second ratchet components urges the safety member to an unblocking position, thereby permitting extension of the knife.