Patent ID: 6032849
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A surgical stapler comprising:a) a handle assembly including a stationary handle and a pivotable handle mounted for manipulation through an actuating stroke;b) an elongated body extending distally from the handle assembly and defining a longitudinal axis;c) an actuation member supported within the handle assembly and mounted for linear movement in response to movement of the pivotable handle through the actuation stroke;d) a staple cartridge supported by the elongated body and containing a plurality of staples;e) an anvil mounted adjacent the cartridge, the anvil having a fastener forming surface thereon and being mounted for relative movement with respect to the cartridge between an open position spaced from the staple cartridge and a closed position in close cooperative alignment with the staple cartridge; andf) an actuator operatively connected to the actuation member, the actuator being configured to move relative to the staple cartridge and anvil to initially effectuate relative movement of the anvil and cartridge from an open position to a closed position and to subsequently effectuate sequential ejection of the staples from the cartridge in response to movement of the pivotable handle through the actuation stroke.