Abstract:
A surgical cutting instrument includes a first jaw member, a second jaw member movably supported relative to the first jaw member for selective movement between an open position and a closed position to clamp tissue therebetween upon application of a closing motion thereto, and a cutting member comprising a tissue cutting edge to cut the tissue clamped between the first jaw member and the second jaw member upon application of a retraction motion to the cutting member.

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The present disclosure relates, in general, to surgery, and in particular, to a surgical transaction or cutting tool which may be used to cut tissue alone or as a part of surgical tissue cutting and fastening instrument. 
     During many surgical procedures, it is common to use a tissue fastening and cutting device, such as a linear cutter, for fastening and transecting tissue in order to resect the tissue and achieve hemostasis by placing a plurality of laterally spaced rows of staples on opposite sides of a tissue cut or tissue transection line. Surgical fastening and cutting instruments are generally used to make a longitudinal incision in tissue and apply lines of staples on opposing sides of the incision. Such instruments commonly include an end effector having a pair of cooperating jaw members that, if the instrument is intended for endoscopic or laparoscopic applications, are capable of passing through a cannula passageway. One of the jaw members receives a staple cartridge having at least two laterally spaced rows of staples. The other jaw member defines an anvil having staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the cartridge. The instrument includes a plurality of reciprocating wedges that, when driven distally, pass through openings in the staple cartridge and engage drivers supporting the staples to effect the firing of the staples toward the anvil. A cutting instrument is drawn distally along the jaw member so that the clamped tissue is cut and fastened (e.g., stapled). 
     An example of a surgical fastening and cutting instrument suitable for endoscopic applications is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which issued on Feb. 21, 2006, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. In use, a clinician is able to close the jaw members of the instrument upon tissue to position the tissue prior to firing. Once the clinician has determined that the jaw members are properly gripping tissue, the clinician can then fire the surgical instrument, thereby severing and stapling the tissue. An example of a Motor-driven surgical fastening and cutting instrument is described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,416,101, entitled “MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH LOADING FORCE FEEDBACK, which issued on Aug. 26, 2008, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The novel features of the various embodiments of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The various embodiments of the invention, however, both as to organization and methods of operation, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings as follows. 
         FIG. 1  is a prospective view of a surgical cutting instrument including a handle, a shaft and an end effector; 
         FIG. 2  is a prospective view of a lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a partial exploded view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a prospective view of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1  near tissue; 
         FIG. 9  is a prospective view of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1  clamping tissue; 
         FIG. 10  is a prospective view of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1  clamping tissue, and a cutting member cutting through the tissue; 
         FIG. 11  is a prospective view of tissue cut by the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is a prospective view of a surgical cutting instrument including a handle, a shaft and an end effector; 
         FIG. 13  is a prospective view of a lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is a partial exploded view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a partial cross-sectional view of the lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a prospective view of a surgical cutting instrument including a handle, a shaft and an end effector; 
         FIG. 20  is a prospective view of a lower jaw of the end effector of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 19  showing a deployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 21  includes two partial prospective views of a driving member of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 19 , wherein the view in solid lines illustrates an undeployed cutting member, and the view in broken lines illustrates a deployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 22  is a partial cross-sectional view of a driving member of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a partial cross-sectional view of a driving member of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a partial cross-sectional view of a driving member of the surgical cutting instrument of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a prospective view of a surgical cutting and fastening instrument including a handle, a shaft and an end effector; 
         FIG. 26  is a partial exploded prospective view of a staple cartridge of the end effector of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 26 , and a driving member of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 26  illustrating an undeployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 29  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 26  illustrating an undeployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 30  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 26  illustrating a deployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 31  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 26  illustrating a deployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 32  is a partial exploded prospective view of a staple cartridge of the end effector of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 33  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 32  illustrating an undeployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 34  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 32  illustrating an undeployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 35  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 32  illustrating a deployed cutting member; 
         FIG. 36  is a partial cross-sectional view of the staple cartridge of  FIG. 32  illustrating a deployed cutting member. 
     
    
    
     SUMMARY 
     A surgical cutting instrument may comprise a first jaw member, a second jaw member movably supported relative to the first jaw member for selective movement between an open position and a closed position to clamp tissue therebetween upon application of a closing motion thereto, and a cutting member comprising a tissue cutting edge to cut the tissue clamped between the first jaw member and the second jaw member upon application of a retraction motion to the cutting member. 
     A surgical staple cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapler may include a staple cartridge housing configured to be operably supported in the surgical stapler, wherein the staple cartridge housing may include a top surface, a slot, and at least one staple cavity. The surgical cartridge assembly may further include a cutting member positioned within the staple cartridge housing, the cutting member comprising a tissue cutting edge configured to cut tissue, wherein the cutting member is proximally retractable upon application of a retraction motion thereto, and wherein the tissue cutting edge is proximally presented as the cutting member is proximally retracted through the tissue. 
     A surgical cutting and fastening instrument may include an elongate shaft, an elongate channel operably coupled to the elongate shaft and configured to operably support a staple cartridge therein, and an anvil movably supported relative to the elongate channel for selective movement between an open position and a closed position, wherein tissue is clamped between the anvil and a staple cartridge supported within the elongate channel in response to opening and closing motions applied thereto from the elongate shaft. The surgical instrument may further include a cutting member comprising a tissue cutting edge, wherein the cutting member is retractable relative to the elongate channel, and wherein the tissue cutting edge is configured to cut tissue clamped between the anvil and the staple cartridge during retraction of the cutting member. 
     A surgical cutting and fastening instrument comprises a first jaw having a housing, the housing including a top surface, a second jaw movably supported relative to the first jaw upon application of opening and closing motions thereto, and a cutting member including a tissue cutting edge, the cutting member being movable from a proximal starting position to a distal ending position upon application of a firing motion thereto, and from the distal ending position to the proximal starting position upon application of a retraction motion thereto, the cutting member being further movably supported within the housing of the first jaw such that when the cutting member is moving from the proximal starting position to the distal ending position, the tissue cutting edge is positioned below the top surface of the housing of the first jaw, and when the cutting member is moving from the distal ending position to the proximal starting position, the tissue cutting edge extends above the top surface of the housing of the first jaw. 
     A surgical staple cartridge comprises a cartridge housing including a top surface, the cartridge housing operably supporting a plurality of surgical staples therein, and a cutting member movably supported within the cartridge housing and including a tissue cutting edge, the cutting member being movable from a proximal starting position to a distal ending position, and from the distal ending position to the proximal starting position, the cutting member further being movably supported within the cartridge housing such that when the cutting member is moving from the proximal starting position to the distal ending position, the tissue cutting edge is positioned below the top surface, and when the cutting member is moving from the distal ending position to the proximal starting position, the tissue cutting edge extends above the top surface. 
     DESCRIPTION 
     As generally used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” generally refer to a clinician manipulating one end of an instrument used to treat a patient. The term “proximal” generally refers to the portion of the instrument closest to the clinician. The term “distal” generally refers to the portion located furthest from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that for conciseness and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical,” “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” may be used herein with respect to the illustrated embodiments. However, surgical instruments may be used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and absolute. 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a surgical instrument, generally  100 , can comprise a handle  102 , a shaft  104 , and an end effector  106 . In at least one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the end effector  106  may comprise a first jaw member  108  and a second jaw member  110 . The end effector  106  may be configured to perform surgical activities in response to drive motions applied thereto. The first jaw member  108  may be movable relative to the second jaw member  110  between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an open position and the second position may be a closed position. In at least one embodiment, referring to  FIG. 1 , the first jaw member  108  may be pivotally coupled to the second jaw member  110 . Other suitable arrangements for coupling the first jaw member  108  and the second jaw member  110  are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the handle  102  may comprise a closure actuator  112 , a firing actuator  113 , and a rotation actuator  114 . The closure actuator  112  may be pivotally coupled to handle  102 . Actuation of the closure actuator  112  may cause the first jaw member  108  to move relative to the second jaw member  110 . Rotating the rotation actuator  114  may result in rotation of the end effector  106  about a longitudinal axis L-L. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 2-7 , the second jaw member  110  may comprise a housing  116  including a top surface  118  having a slot  120  extending along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the housing  116  may include a cutting member  122  which may travel through slot  120  along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 3 , the housing  116  may include a first track  124 , and a second track  126 . Tracks  124  and  126  may extend along the longitudinal axis L-L such that they are parallel with each other. In addition, tracks  124  and  126  may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the top surface  118 , where, in at least one embodiment, the second track  126  is closer to the top surface  118  than the first track  124 . A distal portion  128  of the first track  124  may converge to intersect with the second track  126  at a junction point  130 . Tracks  124  and  126  may further extend distally beyond junction point  130  forming a common track portion  132 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 2-7 , the cutting member  122  may include a tissue cutting edge  134 , a first pin  136 , a second pin  138 , and an engagement portion  140 . The cutting member  122  may travel between a proximal starting position  142  as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , and a distal ending position  144  as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . At the proximal starting position  142 , the first pin  136  may ride in the first track  124 , and the second pin  138  may ride in the second track  126 , causing the cutting member  122  to remain in an “undeployed” orientation. In the undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the tissue cutting edge  134  is not exposed above the top surface  118 . 
     As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 3 , the surgical instrument  100  may further comprise a driving member  146 , which may include a retraction hook  148  and a driving tip  150 . The driving member  146  may be operably coupled, at a proximal portion thereof, to the firing actuator  113  such that an operator of the surgical instrument  100  may advance the driving member  146  distally by advancing the firing actuator  113  distally, and may retract the driving member  146  proximally by retracting firing actuator  113  proximally. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 5 , advancing the driving member  146  distally may bring the driving tip  150  into mating engagement with engagement portion  140  of cutting member  122 . With the first pin  136  riding in the first track  124 , and the second pin  138  riding in the second track  126 , further advancing of the driving member  146  may enable the cutting member  122  to travel distally from the proximal starting position  142  through slot  120  as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the cutting member  122  may be advanced distally in an undeployed orientation along tracks  124  and  126  until the first pin  136  enters the distal portion  128  of the first track  124 . The distal portion  128  may comprise a camming surface  152  which may cause the first pin  136  to be lifted toward junction point  130  as the cutting member  122  continues to be advanced distally. In result, the cutting member  122  is transitioned gradually from an undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  134  is not exposed above top surface  118 , to a deployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  134  is exposed above top surface  118 . Said another way, advancing the first pin  136  against the camming surface  152  may cause the cutting member  122  to move about an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis L-L resulting in deployment of the tissue cutting edge  134 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , as the cutting member  122  transitions from an undeployed orientation to a deployed orientation, as described above, the first pin  136  may enter the common track portion  132 . In addition, the engagement portion  140  of the cutting member  122  may be released from mating engagement with the driving tip  150  and may enter into a mating engagement with the retraction hook  148  as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 6 and 7 , the deployed cutting member  122  may then travel proximally from the distal ending position  144  toward the proximal starting position  142  in response to retraction motions by the driving member  146 . As illustrated in  FIG. 6 , the tissue cutting edge  134  is proximally presented at the distal ending position  144 . Retraction of the driving member  146  may cause the cutting member  122  to travel proximally along the longitudinal axis L-L. As the cutting member  122  begins to travel proximally, the first pin  136  rides in common track portion  132 , and the second pin  138  rides in the second track  126 . Upon reaching junction point  130 , the first pin  136  is prevented from reentering the distal portion  128  of the first track  124  by driving member  146 . Instead, the first pin  136  enters the second track  126 . As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , both pins  136  and  138  may ride in the second track  126  for a remainder of the proximal travel of the cutting member  122 . 
     In certain embodiments, the first jaw member  108  may comprise a slot (not shown) corresponding to slot  120  in the second jaw member  110 . The slot of the first jaw member  108  may also extend along the longitudinal axis L-L, and may receive a top portion of the section of the deployed cutting member  122  exposed above top surface  118  during retraction of the cutting member  122  through slot  120 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8-11 , the surgical instrument  100  can be used in performing a surgical tissue transection procedure. An operator may actuate the closure actuator  112  of the handle  102  to grasp and secure tissue between the first jaw member  108  and the second jaw member  110  as illustrated in  FIG. 9 . The operator may then deploy the cutting member  122  by advancing the firing actuator  113  as described above. Upon deployment, the cutting member  122  can be retracted by retracting the firing actuator  113 . The proximally presented tissue cutting edge  134  may cut through the tissue grasped between jaw members  108  and  110  as the cutting member  122  is retracted proximally. Transected tissue may then be released from end effector  106  by actuating the closure actuator  112  to open the jaw members  108  and  110 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , a surgical instrument, generally  200 , can comprise a handle  202 , a shaft  204 , and an end effector  206 . In at least one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 12 , the end effector  206  may comprise a first jaw member  208  and a second jaw member  210 . The end effector  206  may be configured to perform surgical activities in response to drive motions applied thereto. The first jaw member  208  may be movable relative to the second jaw member  210  between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an open position and the second position may be a closed position. In at least one embodiment, referring to  FIG. 12 , the first jaw member  208  may be pivotally coupled to the second jaw member  210 . Other suitable arrangements for coupling the first jaw member  208  and the second jaw member  210  are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 12 , the handle  202  may comprise a closure actuator  212 , a firing actuator  213 , and a rotation actuator  214 . The closure actuator  212  may be pivotally coupled to handle  202 . Actuation of the closure actuator  212  may cause the first jaw member  208  to move relative to the second jaw member  210 . Rotating the rotation actuator  214  may result in rotation of the end effector  206  about a longitudinal axis L-L. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13-18 , the second jaw member  210  may comprise a housing  216  including a top surface  218  having a slot  220  extending along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the housing  216  may include a cutting member  222  which may travel through slot  220  along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 14 , the housing  216  may include a first track  224 , and a second track  226 . Tracks  224  and  226  may extend along the longitudinal axis L-L such that they are substantially parallel with each other. In addition, tracks  224  and  226  may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the top surface  218 , wherein the second track  226  is closer to the top surface  218  than the first track  224 . As illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the first track  224  may begin at a starting point  225  positioned at a distal portion of the housing  216 ; and the second track  226  may begin a starting point  227  positioned at a proximal portion of the housing  216 . Such arrangement shortens the distance that the cutting member  222  must travel distally before being moved to the deployed orientation. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 13-18 , a distal portion  228  of the first track  224  may converge to intersect with the second track  226  at a junction point  230 . Tracks  224  and  226  may further extend distally beyond junction point  230  forming a common track portion  232 . The cutting member  222  may include a tissue cutting edge  234 , a first pin  236 , a second pin  238 , and an engagement portion  240 . The cutting member  222  may travel between a proximal starting position  242 , which may be defined by the starting point  225  of the first track  224  as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , and a distal ending position  244  at a distal end of the common track  232  as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . At the proximal starting position  242 , the first pin  236  may ride in the first track  224 , and the second pin  238  may ride in the second track  226 , causing the cutting member  222  to remain in an undeployed orientation. In the undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 15 , the tissue cutting edge  234  of the cutting member  222  is not exposed above the top surface  218 . 
     As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 14 , the surgical instrument  200  may further comprise a driving member  246 , which may include a retraction hook  248  and a driving tip  250 . The driving member  246  may be operably coupled, at a proximal portion thereof, to the firing actuator  213  such that an operator of the surgical instrument  200  may advance the driving member  246  distally by advancing the firing actuator  213  distally, and may retract the driving member  246  proximally by retracting firing actuator  213  proximally. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , advancing the driving member  246  distally may bring the driving tip  250  into mating engagement with engagement portion  240  of cutting member  222 . With the first pin  236  riding in the first track  224 , and the second pin  238  riding in the second track  226 , further advancing of the driving member  246  may enable the cutting member  222  to travel a short distance distally from the proximal starting position  242  through slot  218  as illustrated in  FIG. 16 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , the cutting member  222  may be advanced distally in an undeployed orientation a short distance along tracks  224  and  226  until the first pin  236  enters the distal portion  228  of the first track  224 . The distal portion  228  may comprise a camming surface  252  which may cause the first pin  236  to be lifted toward junction point  230  as the cutting member  222  continues to be advanced distally. In result, the cutting member  222  is transitioned gradually from an undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 16 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  234  is not exposed above top surface  218 , to a deployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 17 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  234  is exposed above top surface  218 . Said another way, advancing the first pin  236  against the camming surface  252  may cause the cutting member  222  to move about an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis L-L resulting in deployment of the tissue cutting edge  234 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 16 and 17 , as the cutting member  222  transitions from an undeployed orientation to a deployed orientation, as described above, the first pin  236  may enter the common track portion  232 . In addition, the engagement portion  240  of the cutting member  222  may be released from mating engagement with the driving tip  250  and may enter into a mating engagement with the retraction hook  248  as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , the deployed cutting member  222  may then travel proximally from the distal ending position  244  in response to retraction motions by the driving member  246 . As illustrated in  FIG. 17 , the tissue cutting edge  234  is proximally presented at the distal ending position  244 . Retraction of the driving member  246  may cause the cutting member  222  to travel proximally along the longitudinal axis L-L. As the cutting member  222  begins to travel proximally, the first pin  236  rides in common track portion  232 , and the second pin  238  rides in the second track  226 . Upon reaching junction point  230 , the first pin  236  is prevented from reentering the distal portion  228  of the first track  224  by driving member  246 . Instead, the first pin  236  enters the second track  226 . As illustrated in  FIG. 18 , both pins  236  and  238  may ride in the second track  226  for the remainder of the proximal travel of the cutting member  222 . 
     In certain embodiments, the first jaw member  208  may comprise a slot (not shown) corresponding to slot  220  in the second jaw member  210 . The slot of the first jaw member  208  may also extend along the longitudinal axis L-L, and may receive a top portion of the section of the deployed cutting member  222  exposed above top surface  218  during retraction of the cutting member  222  through slot  220 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 19 , a surgical instrument, generally  300 , can comprise a handle  302 , a shaft  304 , and an end effector  306 . In at least one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 19 , the end effector  306  may comprise a first jaw member  308  and a second jaw member  310 . The end effector  306  may be configured to perform surgical activities in response to firing motions applied thereto. The first jaw member  308  may be movable relative to the second jaw member  310  between a first position and a second position. The first position may be an open position and the second position may be a closed position. In at least one embodiment, referring to  FIG. 19 , the first jaw member  308  may be pivotally coupled to the second jaw member  310 . Other suitable means for coupling the first jaw member  308  and the second jaw member  310  are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 19 , the handle  302  may comprise a closure actuator  312 , a firing actuator  313 , and a rotation actuator  314 . The closure actuator  312  may be pivotally coupled to handle  302 . Actuation of the closure actuator  312  may cause the first jaw member  308  to move relative to the second jaw member  310 . Rotating the rotation actuator  314  may result in rotation of the end effector  106  about a longitudinal axis L-L. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 20-24 , the second jaw member  310  may comprise a housing  316  including a top surface  318  having a slot  320  extending therethrough along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , the housing  316  may include a cutting member  322  which may travel through slot  320  along the longitudinal axis L-L. The cutting member  322  may comprise a tissue cutting edge  334 , and a piercing tip  335  at a distal portion of the cutting member as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 20-24 , the surgical instrument  300  may further comprise a driving member  346 , which may include a stop member  348  oriented at a distal portion thereof as illustrated in  FIG. 21 . The driving member  346  in the distal direction may be operably coupled, at a proximal portion thereof, to the firing actuator  313  such that an operator of the surgical instrument  300  may advance the driving member  346  distally by advancing the firing actuator  313  distally, and may retract the driving member  346  proximally by retracting firing actuator  313  proximally. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 21-24 , the cutting member  322  may be pivotally coupled to a distal portion of the driving member  346  proximal to stop member  348 . For example, a pivot pin  350  can be used to couple the cutting member  322  to the driving member  346 . Other means for coupling the cutting member  322  to the driving member  346  are contemplated within the scope of this disclosure. As illustrated in  FIGS. 21-24 , the cutting member  322  may pivot relative to the driving member  346  about an axis through pivot pin  350  and transverse to the longitudinal axis L-L. Pivoting the cutting member  322 , in a counter clockwise direction, about pivot pin  350  may cause the cutting member  322  to transition from an undeployed orientation to a deployed orientation. In the undeployed orientation, the tissue cutting edge  334  and the piercing tip  335  of the cutting member  346  remain below the top surface  318  of the housing  316  as illustrated by the embodiment in solid lines in  FIG. 21 . In the fully deployed orientation, however, the tissue cutting edge  334  and the piercing tip  335  of the cutting member  346  are exposed above the top surface  318  of the housing  316  and the cutting member  346  rests against stop member  348  as illustrated by the embodiment in broken lines in  FIG. 21 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 22-24 , the housing  316  may comprise a deployment member  356 . As illustrated in  FIG. 22 , the cutting member  322  can be advanced distally in an undeployed orientation by advancing the driving member  346  until the cutting member  322  engages the deployment member  356 . Further advancing of the driving member  346  may cause the cutting member  322  to rotate counter clockwise about pivot pin  350  transitioning to a deployed orientation as illustrated in  FIG. 23 . Other deployment arrangements for deploying cutting member  322  are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The surgical instrument  300  can be used in performing a surgical tissue transection procedure. An operator may actuate the closure actuator  312  to grasp and secure the tissue to be transected between the first jaw member  308  and the second jaw member  310 . The operator may then advance the cutting member  322  distally in an undeployed orientation, as described above, by advancing the firing actuator  313 . Upon engaging the deployment member  356 , the cutting member  322  may be rotated in a clockwise direction causing the piercing tip  335  to penetrate through tissue grasped between the jaw member  308  and  310 . As the operator continues to advance the driving member  346 , the cutting member  322  continues to rotate until the cutting member  322  is stopped by reaching the stop member  348 . The operator may then retract the fully deployed cutting member  322  by retracting the firing actuator  313 . The proximally presented tissue cutting edge  334  may cut through tissue grasped between jaw members  308  and  310  as the cutting member is retracted proximally. Transected tissue may then be released from end effector  306  by actuating the closure actuator  312  to open the jaw member  308  and  310 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 25 , a surgical fastening and cutting instrument, generally  400 , can comprise a handle  402 , a shaft  404 , and an end effector  406 . In at least one embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 25 , the end effector  406  may include a staple cartridge channel  410  for receiving a staple cartridge  411 . The staple cartridge  411  can be configured to operably support surgical staples therein. End effector  406  can further include an anvil  408 , which can be pivotally connected to staple cartridge channel  410  and can be pivoted between open and closed positions by an end effector closure system. 
     In order to deploy the staples from staple cartridge  411 , surgical instrument  400  can further include a staple driver configured to traverse staple cartridge  411  and a firing drive configured to advance the staple driver within the staple cartridge. In various embodiments, anvil  408  can be configured to deform at least a portion of the staples as they are deployed from the staple cartridge. Several embodiments of end effector closure systems and firing drives are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,905,057, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING A FIRING MECHANISM HAVING A LINKED RACK TRANSMISSION, which issued on Jun. 14, 2005, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,044,352, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING A SINGLE LOCKOUT MECHANISM FOR PREVENTION OF FIRING, which issued on May 16, 2006, the entire disclosures of each of these patents are incorporated by reference herein. 
     In various embodiments, a surgical instrument in accordance with the present invention can include a system for moving, or articulating, an end effector relative to an elongate shaft assembly of the surgical instrument. For example, surgical instrument  400  can include an articulation joint (not shown) which can movably connect end effector  406  and shaft  404 . In various embodiments, the articulation joint can permit end effector  406  to be moved relative to shaft  404  in a single plane or, alternatively, multiple planes. In either event, the articulation joint can include one or more pivot axes about which end effector  406  can be articulated. 
     Surgical instrument  400  can further include a locking mechanism (not shown) which can fix, or lock, the relative relationship between end effector  406  and elongate shaft assembly  404 . Locking mechanisms in accordance with the present disclosure are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,662, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING SHAFT WITH SINGLE PIVOT CLOSURE AND DOUBLE PIVOT FRAME GROUND, which issued on Aug. 31, 2010, U.S. Pat. No. 7,455,208, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATING SHAFT WITH RIGID FIRING BAR SUPPORTS, which issued on Nov. 25, 2008, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0027469 A1, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING AND CUTTING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR USING THE DEVICE, which was filed on Jul. 24, 2006, the entire disclosures of which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 25 , the handle  402  may comprise a rotation actuator  414 . Actuation of the rotation actuator  414  may result in rotation of the end effector  406  about a longitudinal axis L-L. The handle  402  may further comprise a closure actuator  412 . The closure actuator  412  may be pivotally coupled to handle  402 . Actuation of the closure actuator  412  may cause the anvil  408  to move relative to the cartridge channel  410 . Handles and actuation mechanisms in accordance with the present disclosure are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,465,895, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER INSTRUMENT, which issued on Nov. 19, 1995, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/830,013, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, which was filed on Jul. 2, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are each incorporated by reference herein. In an illustrative example, closure actuator  412  may be operably coupled to a closure tube  417 . Actuation of the closure actuator  412  may cause the closure tube  417  to move distally. Distal movement of the closure tube  417  may effect pivotal movement of the anvil  408  toward the cartridge channel  410 , which may effect tissue clamping. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 25-27 , the handle  402  of the surgical cutting and fastening instrument  400  may further comprise a firing actuator  415  for deploying staples from staple cartridge  411 . The staple cartridge  411  may be divided by a central elongated slot  420  as illustrated in  FIG. 26 . A plurality of staple receiving pockets  419  may be formed within the staple cartridge  411  and arranged in laterally spaced longitudinal rows. Staples  423  may be operably supported on corresponding drivers  425  that are movably positioned within the pockets  419  as illustrated in  FIG. 27 . The drivers  425  may be arranged in laterally spaced longitudinal rows. Drivers  425  may be slidably received within the pockets  419 . Each driver  425  may support a single staple or plural staples  423  such that movement of the driver  425  through pocket  419  may deploy the staple or staples  423  as illustrated in  FIG. 27 . 
     The cartridge  411  may further include longitudinal slots (not shown) arranged to receive wedges  421  which are provided at a distal end of a firing driver arrangement (not shown) which in turn may be operably coupled to firing actuator  415  in handle  402 . Actuation of firing actuator  415  may cause wedges  421  to move distally by moving the firing driver distally through shaft  404 . Wedges  421  may be moved distally through the longitudinal slots within cartridge  411 . Each wedge  421  may comprise an elongated portion  421   a  and a camming portion  421   b . The camming portion  421   b  may include a single-angle upper cam surface  421   c . Upon distal movement of the wedges  421 , cam surfaces  421   c  can engage and push upward the drivers  425  in the staple cartridge  411  to effect the firing of the staples  423  toward the anvil  408 . Various exemplary cartridge designs and firing driver arrangements in accordance with the present disclosure are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,465,895, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER INSTRUMENT, which issued Nov. 19, 1995, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,669,746, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR FORMING STAPLES HAVING DIFFERING FORMED STAPLE HEIGHTS, which issued Mar. 2, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 25 and 26 , the surgical cutting and fastening instrument  400  may further include a cutting member actuator  413 , a driving member  446 , and a cutting member  422 . The cutting member  422  may travel through slot  420  along the longitudinal axis L-L. As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 26 , the cartridge  411  may include a first track  424 , and a second track  426 . Tracks  424  and  426  may extend along the longitudinal axis L-L such that they are substantially parallel with each other. In addition, tracks  424  and  426  may extend in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the top surface  418 , wherein the second track  426  is closer to the top surface  418  than the first track  424 . A distal portion  428  of the first track  424  may converge to intersect with the second track  426  at a junction point  430 . Tracks  424  and  426  may further extend distally beyond junction point  430  forming a common track portion  432 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 26, and 28-31 , the cutting member  422  may include a tissue cutting edge  434 , a first pin  436 , a second pin  438 , and an engagement portion  440 . The cutting member  422  may travel between a proximal starting position  442  as illustrated in  FIG. 28 , and a distal ending position  444  as illustrated in  FIG. 30 . At the proximal starting position  442 , the first pin  436  may ride in the first track  424 , and the second pin  438  may ride in the second track  426 , causing the cutting member  422  to remain in an undeployed orientation. In the undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 28 , the tissue cutting edge  434  of the cutting member  422  is not exposed above the top surface  418 . 
     As illustrated in the exploded view in  FIG. 26 , the driving member  446  may include a retraction hook  448  and a driving tip  450 . The driving member  446  may be operably coupled, at a proximal portion thereof, to the cutting member actuator  413  such that an operator of the surgical instrument  400  may advance the driving member  446  distally by advancing the cutting member actuator  413  distally, and may retract the driving member  446  proximally by retracting cutting member actuator  413  proximally. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 28 and 29 , advancing the driving member  446  distally may bring the driving tip  450  into mating engagement with an engagement portion  440  of cutting member  422 . With the first pin  436  riding in the first track  424 , and the second pin  438  riding in the second track  426 , further advancing of the driving member  446  may enable the cutting member  422  to travel distally from the proximal starting position  442  through slot  420  as illustrated in  FIG. 29 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 29 and 30 , the cutting member  422  may be advanced distally in an undeployed orientation along tracks  424  and  426  until the first pin  436  enters the distal portion  428  of the first track  424 . The distal portion  428  may comprise a camming surface  452  which may cause the first pin  436  to be lifted toward junction point  430  as the cutting member  422  continues to be advanced distally. In result, the cutting member  422  is transitioned gradually from an undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 29 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  434  is not exposed above top surface  418 , to a deployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 30 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  434  is exposed above top surface  418 . Said another way, advancing the first pin  436  against the camming surface  452  may cause the cutting member  422  to move about an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis L-L resulting in deployment of the cutting member  422 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 29 and 30 , as the cutting member  422  transitions from an undeployed orientation to a deployed orientation, as described above, the first pin  436  enters the common track portion  432 . In addition, the engagement portion  440  of the cutting member  422  is released from mating engagement with the driving tip  450  and enters into a mating engagement with the retraction hook  448  as illustrated in  FIG. 30 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 30 and 31 , the deployed cutting member  422  may then travel proximally from the distal ending position  444  to the proximal starting position  442  in response to retraction motions by the driving member  446 . As illustrated in  FIG. 30 , the tissue cutting edge  434  is proximally presented at the distal ending position  444 . Retraction of the driving member  446  may cause the cutting member  422  to travel proximally along the longitudinal axis L-L. As the cutting member begins to travel proximally, the first pin  436  rides in common track portion  432 , and the second pin  438  rides in the second track  426 . Upon reaching junction point  430 , the first pin  436  is prevented from reentering the distal portion  428  of the first track  424  by driving member  446 . Instead, the first pin  436  enters the second track  426 . As illustrated in  FIG. 31 , both pins  436  and  438  may ride in the second track  426  for a remainder of the proximal travel of the cutting member  422 . 
     In certain embodiments, the anvil  408  may comprise a slot (not shown) corresponding to slot  420  in the cartridge  411 . The slot of anvil  408  may also extend along the longitudinal axis L-L, and may receive a top portion of the section of the deployed cutting member  422  exposed above top surface  418  during retraction of the cutting member  422  through slot  420 . 
     In certain embodiments, wedges  421  may be operably coupled to move simultaneously with the driving member  446  such that a common actuating member (not shown) may simultaneously move wedges  421  and driving member  446 . For example, during a first stroke of the common actuating member, wedges  421  may be advanced distally simultaneously with driving member  446  such that wedges  421  come in contact with drivers  425  as the driving tip  450  of the driving member  446  enters into mating engagement with the engagement portion  440  of the cutting member  422 . During the remainder of the first stroke, the undeployed cutting member  422  may be advanced simultaneously with wedges  421  through staple cartridge  411  as staples  423  are deployed by wedges  421 . At the end of the first stroke, the cutting member  422  may reach a fully deployed orientation with a proximally presented tissue cutting edge  434  at the distal ending position  444  as previously discussed and as illustrated in  FIG. 30 . During a second stroke of the common actuating member, the cutting member  422  may be retracted to cut through tissue now stapled with staples  423 . Wedges  421  may be simultaneously retracted with cutting member  422 . 
     The surgical instrument  400  can be used in performing a surgical tissue fastening and cutting procedure. An operator may actuate the closure actuator  412  of the handle  402  to grasp and secure tissue between the anvil  408  and the staple cartridge  411 . The operator may then actuate the firing actuator  415  to deploy staples  423 , as described in detail above. Once the staples  423  are fired into tissue, the operator may then advance the cutting member  422  distally in an undeployed orientation by advancing the cutting member actuator  413 . Upon reaching the distal ending position  444 , the cutting member  422  reaches a fully deployed orientation. The operator may then retract the fully deployed cutting member  422  by retracting the cutting member actuator  413 . The proximally presented tissue cutting edge  434  may cut through tissue grasped between anvil  408  and cartridge  411  as the cutting member  422  is retracted proximally. Stapled transected tissue may then be released from end effector  406  by actuating the closure actuator  412  to open anvil  408 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 32-36 , in an alternative embodiment, a first track  424 ′ may replace the first track  424  of the staple cartridge  411 . As illustrated in  FIG. 33 , the first track  424 ′ may begin at a distal portion along the length of the staple cartridge  411 . The cutting member  422  may travel from a proximal starting position  442 ′ as illustrated in  FIG. 33  to the distal ending position  444  as illustrated in  FIG. 35 . At the proximal starting position  442 ′, the first pin  436  may ride in the first track  424 ′, and the second pin  438  may ride in the second track  426 , causing the cutting member  422  to remain in an undeployed orientation. As illustrated in  FIG. 33 , in an undeployed orientation, the tissue cutting edge  434  of the cutting member  422  is not exposed above the top surface  418 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 33 and 34 , advancing the driving member  446  distally may bring the driving tip  450  into mating engagement with engagement portion  440  of cutting member  422 . With the first pin  436  riding in the first track  424 ′, and the second pin  438  riding in the second track  426 , further advancing of the driving member  446  may enable the cutting member  422  to travel a short distance distally from the proximal starting position  242 ′ through slot  420  as illustrated in  FIG. 34 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 34 and 35 , the cutting member  422  may be advanced distally in an undeployed orientation a short distance along tracks  424 ′ and  426  until the first pin  436  enters a distal portion  428 ′ of the first track  424 ′. The distal portion  428 ′ may comprise a camming surface  452 ′ which may cause the first pin  436  to be lifted toward junction point  430  as the cutting member  422  continues to be advanced distally. In result, the cutting member  422  is transitioned gradually from an undeployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 33 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  434  is not exposed above top surface  418 , to a deployed orientation, as illustrated in  FIG. 35 , wherein the tissue cutting edge  434  is exposed above top surface  418 . Said another way, advancing the first pin  436  against the camming surface  452 ′ may cause the cutting member  422  to move about an axis transverse to the longitudinal axis L-L resulting in deployment of the tissue cutting edge  434 . 
     Referring again to  FIG. 35 , as the cutting member  422  transitions from an undeployed orientation to a deployed orientation, as described above, the first pin  436  enters the common track portion  432 . In addition, the engagement portion  440  of the cutting member  422  is released from mating engagement with the driving tip  450  and enters into a mating engagement with the retraction hook  448  as illustrated in  FIG. 35 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 35 and 36 , the deployed cutting member  422  may then travel proximally from the distal ending position  444  in response to retraction motions by the driving member  446 . As illustrated in  FIG. 35 , the tissue cutting edge  434  is proximally presented at the distal ending position  444 . Retraction of the driving member  446  may cause the cutting member  422  to travel proximally along the longitudinal axis L-L. As the cutting member  422  begins to travel proximally, the first pin  436  rides in common track portion  432 , and the second pin  438  rides in the second track  426 . Upon reaching junction point  430 , the first pin  436  is prevented from reentering the distal portion  428 ′ of the first track  424 ′ by driving member  446 . Instead, the first pin  436  enters the second track  426 . As illustrated in  FIG. 36 , both pins  436  and  438  may ride in the second track  426  for the remainder of the proximal travel of the cutting member  422 . 
     Various embodiments are described and illustrated in this specification to provide an overall understanding of the elements, steps, and use of the disclosed device and methods. It is understood that the various embodiments described and illustrated in this specification are non-limiting and non-exhaustive. Thus, the invention is not limited by the description of the various non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments disclosed in this specification. In appropriate circumstances, the features and characteristics described in connection with various embodiments may be combined, modified, or reorganized with the steps, components, elements, features, aspects, characteristics, limitations, and the like of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of this specification. As such, the claims may be amended to recite any elements, steps, limitations, features, and/or characteristics expressly or inherently described in, or otherwise expressly or inherently supported by, this specification. Further, Applicants reserve the right to amend the claims to affirmatively disclaim elements, steps, limitations, features, and/or characteristics that are present in the prior art regardless of whether such features are explicitly described herein. Therefore, any such amendments comply with the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §112, first paragraph, and 35 U.S.C. §132(a). The various embodiments disclosed and described in this specification can comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of the steps, limitations, features, and/or characteristics as variously described herein. 
     Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material identified herein is incorporated by reference into this specification in its entirety unless otherwise indicated, but only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material expressly set forth in this specification. As such, and to the extent necessary, the express disclosure as set forth in this specification supersedes any conflicting material incorporated by reference herein. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference into this specification, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein, is only incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material. Applicants reserve the right to amend this specification to expressly recite any subject matter, or portion thereof, incorporated by reference herein. 
     The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device may be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include a combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device may be disassembled, and any number of particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the reconditioning of a device may utilize a variety of different techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application. 
     Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed before surgery. First a new or used instrument is obtained and, if necessary, cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK® bag. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as ethylene oxide, steam, autoclaving, soaking in sterilization liquid, gamma radiation, x-rays, or higher energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.