Patent ID: 8322590
Filing Date: 2012-12-04
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A surgical stapling instrument, comprising: a handle assembly including a movable handle for actuating the stapler; an elongated body portion extending distally from the handle assembly; a head portion disposed adjacent a distal portion of the elongated body portion and including an anvil assembly and a shell assembly, the shell assembly including a shell and a staple guide housing a plurality of staples in an annular array, the shell including an annular opening to receive the staple guide and a locking aperture formed in an outer surface of the shell spaced proximally of the opening and defining a proximal wall and a distal wall, the shell including a ramp positioned distally of the locking aperture; a pusher positioned within the shell and advanceable to advance the plurality of staples distally; and a flexible engagement structure attaching the staple guide to the shell, the flexible engagement structure engageable with the locking aperture to limit distal movement of the staple guide, the flexible engagement structure including at least one hook disposed on the staple guide, the hook including an angled surface disposed on a proximal end thereof, and wherein the angled surface of the hook slidably contacts the ramp of the shell upon engagement between the staple guide and the shell and prior to the hook engaging the locking aperture.