Patent Publication Number: US-2017360462-A1

Title: Coupling mechanisms for surgical instruments

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/807,310, filed Jul. 23, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/306,523, filed Nov. 29, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,113,899. The entire contents of each of the above disclosers are hereby incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates to surgical instruments and, more particularly, to coupling mechanisms for surgical instruments having separable and/or replaceable components. 
     Background of Related Art 
     A forceps is a plier-like instrument which relies on mechanical action between its jaws to grasp, clamp and constrict vessels or tissue. Electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and electrical energy to affect hemostasis by heating tissue and blood vessels to coagulate and/or cauterize tissue. Certain surgical procedures require more than simply cauterizing tissue and rely on the unique combination of clamping pressure, precise electrosurgical energy control and gap distance (i.e., distance between opposing jaw members when closed about tissue) to “seal” tissue, vessels and certain vascular bundles. Typically, once a vessel is sealed, the surgeon has to accurately sever the vessel along the newly formed tissue seal. Accordingly, many vessel sealing instruments have been designed which incorporate a knife or blade member which effectively severs the tissue after forming a tissue seal. 
     Generally, surgical instruments, including forceps, can be classified as single-use instruments, e.g., instruments that are discarded after a single use, partially-reusable instruments, e.g., instruments including both disposable portions and portions that are sterilizable for reuse, and completely reusable instruments, e.g., instruments that are completely sterilizable for repeated use. As can be appreciated, those instruments (or components of instruments) that can be sterilized and reused help reduce the costs associated with the particular surgical procedure for which they are used. However, although reusable surgical instruments are cost-effective, it is important that these instruments be capable of performing the same functions as their disposable counterparts, that any disposable components of these instruments be efficiently removable and replaceable with new components, and that the reusable components be efficiently and satisfactorily sterilizable for reuse. 
     SUMMARY 
     As used herein, the term “distal” refers to the portion that is being described which is further from a user, while the term “proximal” refers to the portion that is being described which is closer to a user. 
     Any of the aspects disclosed herein, to the extent they are consistent, may be used in conjunction with any of the other aspects disclosed herein. 
     In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, a surgical instrument is provided. The surgical instrument includes a shaft defining a longitudinal axis therethrough and having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The shaft includes first and second shaft components that are releasably engageable with one another. A drive sleeve is disposed within the shaft and is longitudinally translatable relative to the shaft to transition the end effector assembly between a first state and a second state. The drive sleeve also includes first and second drive sleeve components that are releasably engageable with one another. A coupling mechanism includes one or more shaft cantilever springs and one or more drive sleeve cantilever springs that are coupled to the one or more shaft cantilever springs. The shaft cantilever springs are configured to engage the first shaft component at a first end thereof and the second shaft component at a second end thereof to releasably engage the first and second shaft components to one another. Similarly, the drive sleeve cantilever springs are configured to engage the first drive sleeve component at a first end thereof and the second drive sleeve component at a second end thereof to releasably engage the first and second drive sleeve components to one another. 
     In one aspect, the shaft cantilever springs include a first tab disposed at the first end thereof and extending therefrom and a second tab disposed at the second end thereof and extending therefrom. The first tab and second tabs are configured to bias into engagement within apertures defined within the first and second shaft components, respectively, to engage the first and second shaft components to one another. Further, the drive sleeve cantilever springs may also include a first tab disposed at the first end thereof and extending therefrom and a second tab disposed at the second end thereof and extending therefrom. The first tab and second tabs are configured to bias into engagement within apertures defined within the first and second drive components, respectively, to engage the first and second drive sleeve components to one another. 
     In another aspect, the shaft cantilever spring and the drive sleeve cantilever spring are coupled to one another via a break-away feature. The break-away feature is configured to break, decoupling the shaft cantilever spring and the drive sleeve cantilever spring from one another to permit the drive sleeve to translate relative to the shaft. 
     In still another aspect, a knife assembly is disposed within the drive sleeve. The knife assembly includes a knife bar having a knife disposed at a distal end of the knife bar. The knife bar is longitudinally translatable through the shaft and relative to the end effector assembly to translate the knife between a retracted position and an extended position for cutting tissue. 
     Another aspect of a surgical instrument provided in accordance with the present disclosure includes a shaft defining a longitudinal axis therethrough and having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The shaft includes first and second shaft components that are releasably engageable with one another. The first shaft component includes a tab disposed on an outer surface thereof and extending outwardly therefrom, while the second shaft component includes a track defined within an outer peripheral surface thereof. The track includes a longitudinal portion, a transverse portion, and a tab retaining portion. The first shaft component is configured for insertion at least partially into the second shaft component such that the tab is translated along the longitudinal portion of the track into position adjacent the transverse portion of the track. The first shaft component is then rotatable about the longitudinal axis and relative to the second shaft component to translate the tab along the transverse portion of the track and into the tab retaining portion for releasably engaging the first and second shaft components to one another. 
     In one aspect, a biasing member configured to bias the first and second shaft components apart from one another is provided. The biasing member biases the tab into engagement within the tab retaining portion of the track to maintain the first and second shaft components in engagement with one another. 
     In another aspect, the first and second shaft components are configured to permit translation of a drive sleeve therethrough for transitioning the end effector assembly between a first state and a second state. 
     In yet another aspect, the surgical instrument further includes a knife assembly disposed within the drive sleeve. The knife assembly includes a knife bar having a knife disposed at a distal end of the knife bar and is longitudinally translatable through the shaft and relative to the end effector assembly to translate the knife between a retracted position and an extended position for cutting tissue. 
     Still another aspect of a surgical instrument provided in accordance with the present disclosure includes a shaft defining a longitudinal axis therethrough and having an end effector assembly disposed at a distal end thereof. The shaft includes first and second shaft components that are releasably engageable with one another. The first shaft component includes an insertion portion, while the second shaft component includes a receiving portion configured to receive the insertion portion of the first shaft component therein to frictionally engage the first and second shaft components to one another. The receiving portion is configured to constrict about the insertion portion upon translation of the insertion portion apart from the receiving portion to inhibit withdrawal of the insertion portion, thereby maintaining the engagement between the first and second shaft components. 
     In one aspect, receiving portion defines a braided configuration configured to elongate and reduce a diameter of a lumen extending therethrough upon extension of the receiving portion. 
     In another aspect, the insertion portion defines a textured outer peripheral surface configured to facilitate frictional engagement between the insertion portion and the receiving portion. 
     In still another aspect, a release ring is provided. The release ring is disposed about the first shaft component and is slidable about the first shaft component into position adjacent the receiving portion of the second shaft component to inhibit constriction of the receiving portion about the insertion portion, thereby permitting withdrawal of the insertion portion from the receiving portion to disengage the first and second shaft components from one another. The surgical instrument may further be configured similar to any of the previous aspects mentioned hereinabove. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the drawings wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical elements: 
         FIG. 1  is a side, perspective view of one embodiment of a surgical instrument provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft of the instrument is in an assembled condition; 
         FIG. 2A  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 1  wherein an end effector assembly is disposed in a spaced-apart position; 
         FIG. 2B  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 1  wherein the end effector assembly is disposed in an approximated position and wherein a knife blade is disposed in a retracted position; 
         FIG. 2C  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 1  wherein the end effector assembly is disposed in an approximated position and wherein the knife blade is disposed in an extended position; 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged, side view of a distal end of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 1 , wherein the shaft of the instrument is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 4  is a transverse, cross-sectional view of the surgical instrument of  FIG. 3  taken across section line  4 - 4 ; 
         FIG. 5A  is a side, cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 5B  is a side, cross-sectional view of the shaft coupling mechanism of  FIG. 5A  wherein the shaft is in an assembled condition; 
         FIG. 6A  is a side, cross-sectional view of another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 6B  is a side, cross-sectional view of the shaft coupling mechanism of  FIG. 6A  during assembly of the shaft; 
         FIG. 6C  is a side, cross-sectional view of the shaft coupling mechanism of  FIG. 6A , wherein the shaft is in an assembled condition; 
         FIG. 6D  is a top view of one of the shaft components of the shaft of  FIG. 6A ; 
         FIG. 6E  is a transverse, cross-sectional view taken along section line  6 E- 6 E of  FIG. 6C ; 
         FIG. 7A  is a side view of still another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 7B  is a side view of the shaft coupling mechanism of  FIG. 7A  wherein the shaft is in an assembled condition; 
         FIG. 8  is a side, perspective view of yet another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of still yet another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 10  is a side view of another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 11  is a side view of another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 12  is a side view of another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 13  is a side, cross-sectional view of still another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of yet another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition; and 
         FIG. 15  is a side view of still yet another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism provided in accordance with the present disclosure wherein the shaft is in a decoupled condition. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1 , a forceps  10  for use in connection with endoscopic surgical procedures is shown, although forceps  10  may also be configured for use in connection with traditional open surgical procedures. Forceps  10  defines a longitudinal axis “A-A” and includes a housing  20 , a handle assembly  30 , a trigger assembly  70 , a rotating assembly  80 , and an end effector assembly  100 . End effector assembly  100  includes first and second jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, configured to pivot relative to one another between a spaced-apart position ( FIG. 1 ) and an approximated position ( FIG. 8B ) for grasping tissue therebetween. Forceps  10  further includes a shaft  12  having a distal end  14  configured to mechanically engage end effector assembly  100  and a proximal end  16  that mechanically engages housing  20 . 
     Forceps  10  also includes an electrosurgical cable  310  that connects forceps  10  to a generator (not shown) or other suitable power source, although forceps  10  may alternatively be configured as a battery powered instrument. Cable  310  includes a wire (or wires) (not explicitly shown) extending therethrough, into housing  20  and through shaft  12  to ultimately connect the source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) to jaw member  110  and/or jaw member  120  of end effector assembly  100 . However, any other suitable electrical connection(s) for supplying energy to jaw member  110  and/or jaw member  120  may also be provided. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 1 , handle assembly  30  includes a fixed handle  50  and a moveable handle  40 . Fixed handle  50  is integrally associated with housing  20  and handle  40  is moveable relative to fixed handle  50 . Rotating assembly  80  is rotatable in either direction about a longitudinal axis “A-A” to rotate end effector  100  about longitudinal axis “A-A.” The housing  20  houses the internal working components of the forceps  10 . 
     End effector assembly  100  is attached at a distal end  14  of shaft  12  and includes a pair of opposing jaw members  110  and  120 . End effector assembly  100  is designed as a unilateral assembly, i.e., where jaw member  120  is fixed relative to shaft  12  and jaw member  110  is moveable relative to both shaft  12  and fixed jaw member  120 . However, end effector assembly  100  may alternatively be configured as a bilateral assembly, i.e., where both jaw member  110  and jaw member  120  are moveable relative to one another and with respect to shaft  12 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , each jaw member  110 ,  120  includes an electrically conductive tissue sealing plate  112 ,  122  disposed thereon. Tissue sealing plates  112 ,  122  are positioned on jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to define opposed tissue sealing surfaces for grasping and sealing tissue between jaw members  110 ,  120 . In some embodiments, a knife assembly  180  (see  FIGS. 2A-2C ) is disposed within shaft  12  and a knife channel  115 ,  125  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) is defined within one or both of tissue sealing plates  112 ,  122 , of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to permit reciprocation of a knife  184  (see  FIGS. 2A-2C ) therethrough for cutting tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . In such an embodiment, trigger  72  of trigger assembly  70  is operable to advance the knife  184  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) between a retracted position (see  FIGS. 2A-2B ), wherein knife  184  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) is disposed within shaft  12 , and an extended position (see FIG.  2 C), wherein knife  184  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) extends between jaw members  110 ,  120  to cut tissue grasped therebetween. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIG. 1 , moveable handle  40  of handle assembly  30  is ultimately connected to a drive assembly including a drive sleeve  60  ( FIG. 4 ) that, together, mechanically cooperate to impart movement of jaw members  110  and  120  between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position to grasp tissue between sealing plates  112  and  122  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively. As shown in  FIG. 1 , moveable handle  40  is initially spaced-apart from fixed handle  50  and, correspondingly, jaw members  110 ,  120  are disposed in the spaced-apart position. Moveable handle  40  is depressible from this initial position to a depressed position corresponding to the approximated position of jaw members  110 ,  120  (see  FIGS. 2B-2C ). With tissue grasped between tissue sealing plates  112 ,  122  of jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, electrosurgical energy may be conducted between tissue sealing plates  112 ,  122 , e.g., upon actuation of activation switch  90 , to seal tissue disposed between jaw members  110 ,  120 . 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 2A-2C , in conjunction with  FIG. 1 , drive sleeve  60  is disposed within shaft  12  and is coupled to jaw member  110  at the distal end thereof such that, as drive sleeve  60  is translated proximally through shaft  12  and relative to jaw member  120 , e.g., via depressing movable handle  40 , jaw member  110  is pulled to pivot from the spaced-apart position ( FIG. 2A ) to the approximated position ( FIGS. 2B, 2C ). On the other hand, when drive sleeve  60  is translated distally, e.g., via releasing or returning movable handle  40  to its initial position, jaw member  110  is urged to pivot from the approximated position ( FIGS. 2B, 2C ) back to the spaced-apart position ( FIG. 2A ). However, this configuration may be reversed, e.g., where proximal translation of drive sleeve  60  moves jaw members  110 ,  120  to the spaced-apart position and wherein distal translation of drive sleeve  60  moves jaw members  110 ,  120  to the approximated position. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 2A-2C , shaft  12  further includes a knife assembly  180  disposed therein. Knife assembly  180  is disposed within drive sleeve  60  and includes a knife bar  182  having knife  184  coupled thereto at the proximal end of  185  of knife  184 . Knife  184  defines a cutting blade  186  at distal end  187  thereof. Knife  184  is translatable between a retracted position ( FIGS. 2A-2B ), wherein knife  184  is disposed within shaft  12 , and an extended position ( FIG. 2C ), wherein knife  184  extends through knife channels  115 ,  125  defined within jaw members  110 ,  120 , respectively, to cut tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . More specifically, upon actuation of trigger  72  ( FIG. 1 ) of trigger assembly  70  ( FIG. 1 ), knife bar  182  is advanced distally through shaft  12  and drive sleeve  60  to urge knife  184  from the retracted position to the extended position. Further, knife assembly  180  may be biased, e.g., via a spring (not explicitly shown), toward the retracted position such that, upon release of trigger  72 , knife  184  is automatically returned to the retracted position. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 3-4 , in conjunction with  FIGS. 1-2C , shaft  12  of forceps  10  is separable, or decouplable into first and second shaft sections  17  and  18 , respectively. More specifically, second section  18  of shaft  12 , including end effector assembly  100 , is removable from the remainder of forceps  10 , thus allowing second section  18  of shaft  12  and end effector assembly  100  to be replaced with new components after each use (or each procedure), or to be cleaned, sterilized, or otherwise prepared for reuse independently of the remaining components of forceps  10 . Such a configuration also permits the use of various different end effector assemblies with forceps  10  by simply selecting the desired end effector assembly and coupling that end effector assembly and the second shaft section  18  thereof to first section  17  of shaft  12 . 
     Put more generally, the replaceable distal portion, e.g., second shaft section  18  and end effector assembly  100 , of forceps  10  helps reduce the equipment costs associated with performing a particular surgical procedure by obviating the need to provide an entire new surgical instrument, facilities sterilization and cleaning of the components of the instrument by providing greater access to the components of the instrument and allowing different components of the instrument to be cleaned and/or sterilized via different procedures, and increases the versatility of the instrument by allowing different shaft components and/or end effectors to be coupled thereto. 
     However, while it is advantageous to provide a surgical instrument, e.g., forceps  10 , that includes a shaft  12  that is separable into first and shaft sections  17  and  18 , respectively, significant considerations apply when configuring a shaft coupling mechanism for releasably coupling first and second shaft sections  17 ,  18 , respectively, to one another. In particular, it is important to consider the various components and connections extending through shaft  12 . More specifically, as best shown in  FIG. 4 , shaft  12  defines an outer tube, or lumen that houses drive sleeve  60 . Drive sleeve  60 , as mentioned above, is selectively translatable through and relative to shaft  12  to pivot jaw member  110  relative to jaw member  120  between the spaced-apart and approximated positions. Drive sleeve  60  also includes knife bar  182  disposed therein that, as described above, is selectively translatable relative to drive sleeve  60  and shaft  12  to advance knife  184  from the retracted position to the extended position to cut tissue grasped between jaw members  110 ,  120 . Further, electrical connections, e.g., wires (not explicitly shown), extend through shaft  12  to connect the source of electrosurgical energy (not explicitly shown) to jaw member  110  and/or jaw member  120  of end effector assembly  100  for providing energizing end effector assembly. 
     Various embodiment of coupling mechanisms configured to releasably couple the first and second sections  17  and  18 , respectively, of shaft  12  to one another in accordance with those considerations addressed above will be described in detail below with reference to  FIGS. 5A-15 . More particularly, the coupling mechanisms described hereinbelow may be configured for coupling the first and second sections  17 ,  18  of shaft  12 , the components of drive sleeve  60 , and/or the components of knife bar  182  to one another, as well as for re-establishing and electrical connections extending through shaft  12 . Further, the various coupling mechanisms described hereinbelow may be used alone or in combination with one another to releasably couple one or more of the respective components of shaft  12 , drive sleeve  60 , and/or knife bar  182  to one another. Thus, while certain coupling mechanisms may be shown and described with reference to only a single connection, e.g., for coupling the first and second sections  17 ,  18  of shaft  12  to one another, such mechanisms (or other coupling mechanisms) may also be used for further coupling the other components, e.g., first and second sections of the drive sleeve  60  and/or knife bar  182 , to one another. Likewise, the electrical connections described hereinbelow in connection with some embodiments of coupling mechanisms for electrically coupling the first and second sections  17 ,  18 , respectively, of shaft  12  to one another such that electrosurgical energy may be supplied from housing  20  to end effector assembly  100  may also be used in conjunction with any of the other coupling mechanisms described herein. 
     Additionally, although the embodiments herein are described with reference to a forceps  10 , the presently disclosed coupling mechanisms may be used in conjunction with any shafted surgical instrument (including single or multiple component shafts) having an end effector assembly disposed at one end and a handle, housing, grip, control, etc. disposed at the other end. Further, the attachment point of first and second sections  17 ,  18 , respectively, of shaft  12  may be disposed at various positions along the length of shaft  12 , e.g., closer towards distal end  14  such that second section  18  defines a greater length than first portion  17 , closer toward proximal end  16  such that first section  17  defines a greater length than first portion  17 , or anywhere between proximal end  16  and distal end  14  of shaft  12 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5A-5B , one embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism for coupling first and second components  517 ,  518 , respectively, of shaft  512  to one another as well as for coupling first and second components  567 ,  568 , respectively, of drive sleeve  560  to one another is shown generally identified by reference numeral  500 . Tube coupling mechanism  500  includes two sets of cantilever springs  520 ,  530  and  570 ,  580 . Each cantilever spring  520 ,  530  of the first set includes an arm  522 ,  532  that has a first tab  524 ,  534  disposed at a first end  525 ,  535 , respectively, thereof and a second tab  526 ,  536  disposed at second end  527 ,  537 , respectively, thereof. First tabs  524 ,  534  are engaged within apertures  542 ,  544 , respectively, of second component  518  of shaft  512 , while second tabs  526 ,  536  are configured for engagement within apertures  546 ,  548 , respectively, defined within first component  517  of shaft  512 . More specifically, as will be described below, cantilever springs  520 ,  530  are configured to resiliently bias second tabs  526 ,  536 , respectively, into engagement with respective apertures  546 ,  548  of first component  517  upon insertion into shaft  512  to engage first and second components  517 ,  518 , respectively, of shaft  512  to one another. 
     Each cantilever spring  570 ,  580  of the second set similarly includes an arm  572 ,  582  that has a first tab  574 ,  584  disposed at a first end  575 ,  585 , respectively, thereof and a second tab  576 ,  586  disposed at second end  577 ,  587 , respectively, thereof. First tabs  574 ,  584  are engaged within apertures  592 ,  594 , respectively, of second component  568  of drive sleeve  560 , while cantilever springs  570 ,  580  are configured to resiliently bias second tabs  576 ,  586 , respectively, into engagement with respective apertures  566 ,  568  of first component  567  of drive sleeve  560  upon positioning about drive sleeve  560  to engage first and second components  567 ,  568 , respectively, of drive sleeve  560  to one another. Further, cantilever springs  520 ,  570  may be coupled, engaged, or otherwise formed to one another adjacent first end  525  of cantilever spring  520  and second end  577  of cantilever spring  570  via a break-away feature, or coupling  549 . Cantilever springs  530 ,  580  may likewise be coupled, engaged, or otherwise formed to one another adjacent first end  535  of cantilever spring  530  and second end  587  of cantilever spring  580  via a break-away feature, or coupling  599 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 5A-5B , in order to couple first and second components  517 ,  518 , respectively, of shaft  512  to one another and first and second components  567 ,  568 , respectively, of drive sleeve  560  to one another, first and second component  517 ,  518  of shaft  512  are brought into approximation with one another. As can be appreciated, approximation of first and second component  517 ,  518  of shaft  512  likewise approximates first and second components  567 ,  568  of drive sleeve  560  due to the engagement of cantilever springs  520 ,  570  and  530 ,  580  via break-away couplings  549 ,  599 , respectively. More specifically, as first and second component  517 ,  518  of shaft  512  are brought into approximation with one another, second tabs  526 ,  536  of cantilever springs  520 ,  530 , respectively, are flexed inwardly, i.e., toward one another, to permit passage of cantilever springs  520 ,  530  into lumen  514  defined through shaft  512 . On the other hand, second tabs  576 ,  586  of cantilever springs  570 ,  580 , respectively, are flexed outwardly, i.e., apart from one another, to permit passage of cantilever springs  570 ,  580  about drive sleeve  560 . 
     As first and second components  517 ,  518  of shaft  512  are further approximated relative to one another, second tabs  526 ,  536  of cantilever springs  520 ,  530 , respectively, are eventually translated through lumen  514  of shaft  512  into position adjacent apertures  542 ,  544  of first component  517 , whereby cantilever springs  520 ,  530  are resiliently biased back to their initial, un-flexed position, thus urging second tabs  526 ,  536  into engagement within apertures  542 ,  544 , respectively, to engage first and second components  517 ,  518 , respectively, of shaft  512  to one another. Similarly, second tabs  576 ,  586  of cantilever springs  570 ,  580 , respectively, are eventually translated about the outer periphery of first component  567  of drive sleeve  560  into position adjacent apertures  592 ,  594  of first component  567 , whereby cantilever springs  570 ,  580  are resiliently biased back to their initial, un-flexed position, thus urging second tabs  576 ,  586  into engagement within apertures  592 ,  594 , respectively, to engage first and second components  567 ,  568 , respectively, of drive sleeve  560  to one another. 
     With first and second components  517 ,  518  of shaft  512  engaged to one another and with first and second components  567 ,  568  of drive sleeve  560  engaged to one another, drive sleeve  560  may be translated relative to shaft  512  an initial time, e.g., via depressing movable handle  40  ( FIG. 1 ), to break, tear, or otherwise destroy break-away couplings  549  and  599 . As can be appreciated, with break-away couplings  549 ,  599  no longer securing cantilever springs  520 ,  270  to one another nor cantilever springs  530 ,  580  to one another, drive sleeve  560  is free to translate through lumen  514  and relative to shaft  512  for moving jaw members  110 ,  120  ( FIG. 1 ) between the spaced-apart and approximated positions. 
     In order to decouple shaft components  517 ,  518  from one another, a tool (not shown) or other implement may be used to urge tabs  526 ,  536  inwardly such that tabs  526 ,  536  are no longer disposed within apertures  546 ,  548 , respectively. With tabs  526 ,  536  removed from apertures  546 ,  548 , shaft components  517 ,  518  may be translated apart from one another to decouple shaft component  517 ,  518  from one another. First and second components  567 ,  568  of drive sleeve  560  may similarly be decoupled from one another. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 6A-6E , another embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism is shown generally identified via reference numeral  600 . Tube coupling mechanism  600  is configured to releasably engage first and second components  617 ,  618  of shaft  612  to one another. More specifically, tube coupling mechanism  600  includes a pair of resilient locking tabs  620 ,  630  formed in the outer periphery of second component  618  and extending outwardly therefrom (although locking tabs  620 ,  630  may alternatively be formed on shaft component  617  to extend inwardly therefrom). As best shown in  FIG. 6A , in an at-rest position, locking tabs  620 ,  630  are bent, or folded-back onto themselves and protrude from the outer periphery of second shaft component  618 . Each locking tab  620 ,  630  defines a free end  622 ,  632 , respectively, that permits resilient flexion of locking tabs  620 ,  630  relative to second shaft component  618 . First shaft component  617 , on the other hand, includes a pair of apertures  640 ,  650  configured to receive locking tabs  620 ,  630 , respectively, therein. Further, first shaft component  617  may define a slightly larger diameter than second shaft component  618  such that second shaft component  618  may be inserted at least partially into lumen  614  of first shaft component  617  to couple first and second shaft components  617 ,  618 , respectively, to one another, as will be described below. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 6A-6E , in order to engage first and second shaft components  617 ,  618 , respectively, to one another, second shaft component  618  is inserted into lumen  614  defined through first shaft component  617 . As second shaft component  618  is urged into lumen  614  of first shaft component  617 , resilient locking tabs  620 ,  630  are flexed, or compressed inwardly into second shaft component  618  in order to permit passage of second shaft component  618  into lumen  614  of first shaft component  617 , as best shown in  FIG. 6B . 
     As second shaft component  618  is translated further through lumen  614  of first shaft components  617  tabs  620 ,  630  are eventually translated into position adjacent apertures  640 ,  650  of first shaft component  617 , whereby tabs  620 ,  630  are resiliently biased back to their initial, un-compressed position (extending from second shaft component  618 ). That is, tabs  620 ,  630  are urged under bias into engagement within apertures  640 ,  650 , respectively, to engage first and second components  617 ,  618 , respectively, of shaft  612  to one another. Similarly as described above, in order to decouple shaft components  617 ,  618  from one another, a tool (not shown) or other implement may be used to urge tabs  620 ,  630  inwardly such that tabs  620 ,  630  are no longer disposed within apertures  640 ,  650 , respectively. With tabs  620 ,  630  removed from apertures  640 ,  650 , second shaft component  618  may be removed from lumen  614  of first shaft component  617  to decouple shaft component  617 ,  618  from one another. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 7A-7B , another embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism is shown generally identified by reference numeral  700 . Tube coupling mechanism  700  is configured to engage first and second shaft component  717 ,  718 , respectively, of shaft  712  to one another. One of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  717 , includes an insertion portion  720  extending from end  722  thereof, while the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  718 , includes a receiving portion  730  disposed at end  732  thereof. Insertion portion  720  is configured for insertion into lumen  734  of receiving portion  730  for securing first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, to one another. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7A , insertion portion  720  of first shaft component  717  defines a diameter that is smaller relative to the diameter of receiving portion  730  of shaft component  718 , such that insertion portion  720  may be inserted into lumen  734  of receiving portion  730  until ends  722 ,  732  of first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, are abutting one another, as shown in  FIG. 7B . Thereafter, insertion portion  720  and/or receiving portion  730  are transitioned from this first condition, wherein the diameter of insertion portion  720  is smaller than the diameter of receiving portion  730 , to a second, or engaged condition, wherein insertion portion  720  is retained in engagement within receiving portion  730  via friction-fitting. As can be appreciated, in the engaged condition, the diameters of insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  may be substantially similar to one another to retain first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, in engagement with one another. 
     In order to engage insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  to one another, one or both of the portions  720 ,  730  are heated, or otherwise treated to achieve the first condition; insertion portion  720  in inserted into receiving portion  730 ; and, finally, insertion portion  720  and/or receiving portion  730  are transitioned to the engaged condition to engage first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, to one another. For example, receiving portion  730  of second shaft component  718  may be heated to an expanded state (i.e., the first condition) such that insertion portion  720  of first shaft component  717  may be inserted into lumen  734  of receiving portion  730 . Thereafter, receiving portion  730  is cooled, or allowed to cool, such that receiving portion  730  is contracted about insertion portion  720  back to its initial condition to engage insertion portion  720  therein. 
     Alternatively, insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  may be formed from materials having different coefficients of expansion such that both insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  may be heated to permit insertion portion  720  to be inserted into receiving portion  730 . Thereafter, both insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  are allowed to cool, or are cooled, back to their initial states to engage insertion portion  720  within receiving portion  730 . Insertion portion  720  and/or receiving portion  730  may also be formed form shape memory materials, or may include thermal or electric bimetal materials disposed thereon to facilitate transitioning of insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  between the first and second conditions for securing first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, to one another. 
     In order to decouple first and second shaft components  717 ,  718 , respectively, from one another, one or both of insertion portion  720  and receiving portion  730  are transitioned, e.g., heated, to once again achieve the first condition, thus allowing first and second shaft components  717 ,  718  to be translated apart from one another such that insertion portion  720  is removed from lumen  734  of receiving portion  730 . 
       FIG. 8  shows another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism  800  that is configured to releasably engage first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, of shaft  812  to one another. Shaft coupling mechanism  800  generally includes a tab  820  disposed on and extending from an outer periphery of one of the shaft components, e.g., second shaft component  818 , and a slot  830  defined within the outer periphery of the other shaft component, e.g., first shaft component  817 . Slot  830  includes a longitudinal segment  836  having an open distal end  837  at distal end  832  of first shaft component  817  and a locking segment  840  in communication with longitudinal segment  836  at proximal end  838  thereof. Locking segment  840  includes a transverse portion  842  extending in substantially-transverse relation relative to longitudinal segment  836 , and a distally-extending tab-retaining portion  844  in communication therewith. First shaft component  817  further includes a biasing member, e.g., a spring  848  disposed within lumen  834  thereof, the importance of which will be described below. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 8 , second shaft component  818  defines a diameter smaller than that of first shaft component  817  to permit passage of second shaft component  818  into lumen  834  of first shaft component  817 . Further, tab  820  of second shaft component  818  is configured to be received within, and to translate through slot  830  of first shaft component  817  to engage first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, to one another. 
     In order to engage first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, to one another, second shaft component  818  is inserted into lumen  834  of first shaft component  817  such that tab  820  is inserted into longitudinal segment  836  of slot  830  via open distal end  837  thereof. As second shaft component  818  is translated further into lumen  834  of first shaft component  817 , tab  820  is translated proximally along longitudinal segment  836  of slot  830  towards proximal end  838  thereof. However, prior to tab  820  reaching proximal end  838  of longitudinal segment  836  of slot  830 , proximal end  822  of second shaft component  818  contacts biasing member  848 . As such, in order to translate second shaft component  818  further through lumen  834  of first shaft component  817 , second shaft component  818  must be urged sufficiently to overcome the bias of biasing member  848 . 
     Eventually, second shaft component  818  is translated proximally, against the bias of biasing member  848 , such that tab  820  is disposed at proximal end  838  of longitudinal segment  836  of slot  830 . Once this position is achieved, second shaft component  818  is rotated about longitudinal axis “A-A” relative to first shaft component  817  such that tab  820  is translated along transverse portion  842  of locking segment  840  into position adjacent tab-retaining portion  844  of locking segment  840  of slot  830 . Thereafter, second shaft component  818  may be released, allowing biasing member  848  to bias second shaft component  818  distally such that tab  820  is translated distally into tab-retaining portion  844  of locking segment  840  of slot  830  to engage first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, to one another. 
     In order to disengage first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, from one another, second shaft component  818  is translated proximally relative to first shaft component  817  such that tab  820  is translated proximally from tab-retaining portion  844  of locking segment  840  into transverse portion  842  of locking segment  840  of slot  830 . Thereafter, second shaft component  818  is rotated relative to first shaft component  817  about longitudinal axis “A-A” such that tab  820  is once again aligned with longitudinal segment  836  of slot  830  so that second shaft component  818  can be translated distally and removed from first shaft component  817 , thereby decoupling first and second shaft components  817 ,  818 , respectively, from one another. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 9 , shaft coupling mechanism  900  is configured to engage first and second shaft components  917 ,  918 , respectively, of shaft  912  to one another. Shaft coupling mechanism  900  includes a first hub  920  disposed on one of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  917 , and a second hub  930  disposed on the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  918 . More specifically, first hub  920  extends from distal end  922  of first shaft component  917  and defines a reduced diameter relative to first shaft component  917  such that a distally-facing shoulder  924  is defined therebetween. Further, first hub  920  includes a helical track  926  defined within an outer periphery thereof, the helical track  926  including an open distal end  927  and a retaining notch  928  formed at proximal end  929  thereof. An O-ring  940 , or other suitable resilient biasing member, is disposed about first hub  920  adjacent shoulder  924 . 
     Second hub  930  extends from proximal end  932  of second shaft component  918  and defines a lumen  934  extending therethrough that is configured to receive first hub  920  of first shaft component  917  therein. Second hub  930  further includes a tab  936  disposed on an inner surface thereof and extending inwardly into lumen  934 . Tab  936  is configured to be received within, and to translate through track  926  of first hub  920 . 
     In use, to couple first and second shaft components  917 ,  918 , respectively, to one another, first and second shaft components  917 ,  918  are translated toward one another until first hub  920  extends partially into second hub  930  such that tab  936  enters open distal end  927  of track  926 . With tab  936  positioned within track  926 , second shaft component  918  is rotated relative to first shaft component  917  about longitudinal axis “A-A” such that tab  936  is translated proximally through track  926 , thereby further engaging first hub  920  within second hub  930 . Upon further rotation of second shaft component  918  relative to first shaft component  917  and, thus, upon further translation of first hub  920  into second hub  930 , tab  936  is translated through track  926  into position adjacent retaining notch  928  of track  926 . However, in this position, second hub  930  is positioned adjacent O-ring  940 . Thus, in order to translate tab  936  into notch  928 , second shaft component  918  is rotated with sufficient urging to compress O-ring  940 , thus permitting further proximal translation of tab  936  through helical track  926 . Ultimately, once tab  936  has reached notch  928 , second shaft component  918  may be released, allowing O-ring  940  to resiliently return to its at rest condition such that second shaft component  918  is biased distally and, thus, tab  936  is biased into engagement within notch  928  to engage first and second shaft components  917 ,  918 , respectively, to one another. 
     In order to decouple first and second shaft components  917 ,  918 , respectively, from one another, second shaft component  918  is translated proximally relative to first shaft component  917  such that second shaft component  918  is urged against first O-ring  940  to compress O-ring  940 , allowing second shaft component  918  to translate further proximally. In this position, tab  936  of second shaft component  918  is once again aligned with helical track  926  such that second shaft component  918  may be rotated about longitudinal axis “A-A” to translate tab  936  distally through helical track  926 , ultimately disengaging first and second shaft components  917 ,  918 , respectively, from one another. 
       FIG. 10  shows another embodiment of a shaft coupling mechanism  1000  configured for releasably engaging first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively, of shaft  1012  to one another. Shaft coupling mechanism  1000  includes a first hub  1020  disposed on one of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  1017 , and a second hub  1030  disposed on the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  1018 . Shaft coupling mechanism  1000  further includes a sleeve  1050  slidably disposed about shaft  1012 , the importance of which will be describe below. 
     First hub  1020  of shaft coupling mechanism  1000  extends from distal end  1022  of first shaft component  1017  and defines a pair of opposed notches  1024  within the outer periphery thereof. Alternatively, rather than notches  1024 , an annular groove (not shown) may be defined therein. An O-ring  1040 , or other suitable biasing member is disposed about first shaft component  1017  and is disposed within each of notches  1024 . 
     Second hub  1030  extends from proximal end  1032  of second shaft component  1018  and defines a lumen  1034  extending therethrough that is configured to receive first hub  1020  of first shaft component  1017  therein. Second hub  1030  further includes a pair of opposed cantilever springs  1036  extending proximally therefrom. Each of the cantilever springs  1036  defines a tab  1038  at a free end thereof. Tabs  1038  extend inwardly toward one another and are configured for engagement within notches  1024  of first hub  1020 . Alternatively, rather than a pair of opposed cantilever spring  1036 , second hub  1030  may include an annular biasing member (not shown) configured for engagement within an annular groove (not shown) defined within first hub  1020 . 
     First and second hubs  1020 ,  1030  may each further include complementary electrical connection members  1060 ,  1070 , respectively. More specifically, one of the first and second hubs, e.g., first hub  1020 , may include a female connection member  1060 , while the other hub, e.g., second hub  1030 , includes a male connection member  1070  configured for insertion into female connection member  1060  to electrically couple first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively, to one another, thus permitting energy to be supplied from the energy source (not explicitly shown) to end effector assembly  100  ( FIG. 1 ). 
     In order to engage first and second components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively, of shaft  1012  to one another, first and second component  1017 ,  1018  of shaft  1012  are brought into approximation with one another. As first and second components  1017 ,  1018  of shaft  1012  are brought into approximation with one another, tabs  1038  of cantilever springs  1036  are flexed outwardly, i.e., apart from one another, to permit passage first hub  1020  into lumen  1034  of second hub  1030 . 
     As first hub  1020  is inserted further into lumen  1034  of second hub  1030 , tabs  1038  are translated proximally along the outer periphery of first hub  1020 . Eventually, tabs  1030  are translated into position adjacent notches  1024  defined within first hub  1020 . Once disposed adjacent notches  1024 , the resilient biasing force of cantilever springs  1036  urges tabs  1038  inwardly back toward their initial position such that tabs  1038  are engaged within notches  1024 , thereby engaging first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1718  to one another. O-ring  1040 , which is also disposed within notches  1024 , biases tabs  1038  into frictional engagement within notches  1024 , ensuring sufficiently engagement therebetween. Translation of first hub  1020  further into lumen  1034  of second hub  1030  also translates male connection member  1070  into engagement with female connection member  1060  to electrically couple first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively, to one another. 
     With first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively, engaged to one another, sleeve  1050  may be slid distally about shaft  1012  to substantially surround first and second hubs  1020 ,  1030 , respectively. As can be appreciated, with sleeve  1050  disposed about first and second hubs  1020 ,  1030 , sleeve  1050  helps maintain the engagement between first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , respectively. 
     In order to disengage first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018 , sleeve  1050  is first slid proximally (or distally) such that sleeve  1050  is no longer disposed about first and second hubs  1020 ,  1030 , respectively. Thereafter, tabs  1038  are disengaged from notches  1024  and first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018  are translated apart from one another, thus disengaging first and second shaft components  1017 ,  1018  from one another. 
       FIG. 11  shows another embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism  1100  configured to releasably engage first and second components  1117 ,  1118  of shaft  1112  to one another. Shaft components  1117 ,  1118  each include a lumen  1122 ,  1124  extending therethrough. More specifically, lumens  1122 ,  1124  are configured to cooperate with one another to permit reciprocation of drive sleeve  60  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) and/or knife bar  182  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) therethrough to facilitate moving jaw members  110 ,  120  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) between the spaced-apart position and the approximated position and for translating knife  184  ( FIGS. 2A-2C ) between the retracted position and the extend position, respectively. 
     With continued reference to  FIG. 11 , one of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  1117 , includes a pair of pins  1020  extending distally therefrom, while the other shaft components, e.g., second shaft component  118  includes a pair of apertures  1130  defined therethrough. Pins  1020  and apertures  1030  are radially-spaced from lumens  1122 ,  1124 , respectively, so as not to interfere with the internal components of shaft  1112 . Pins  1020  are configured to be inserted into apertures  1030  to secure first and second shaft components to one another. More specifically, pins  1020  define a substantially similar, or slightly smaller, diameter than that of apertures  1030  to facilitate friction-fitting engagement between first and second shaft components  1117 ,  1118 , respectively. Further, pins  1020  may include a resilient material disposed on the outer periphery thereof (or may be formed from a resilient material or structure), and/or apertures  1030  may also include a resilient material disposed on the internal surface thereof. In such an embodiment, pins  1020  and/or apertures  1030  are configured to be compressed upon insertion of pins  1030  and/or apertures  1030  to resiliently bias first and second shaft components  1117 ,  1118  to one another. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 12 , yet another embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism configured for engaging first and second shaft components  1217 ,  1218 , respectively, of shaft  1212  to one another is shown generally identified by reference numeral  1200 . One of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  1217 , includes a male connection member  1220  extending distally from distal end  1222  therefrom, while the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  1218 , includes a recess, or female connection member  1230  defined therein at proximal end  1232  thereof. Male connection member  1220  and/or female connection member  1230  are shaped complementary to one another to facilitate engagement therebetween for engaging first and second shaft components  1217 ,  1218 , respectively, to one another. Further, male connection member  1220  may include an adhesive disposed on an outer peripheral surface thereof (or may be formed from an adhesive material) and/or female connection member  1230  may include an adhesive disposed on an inner surface thereof (or may be formed from an adhesive material) to facilitate engagement therebetween. More specifically, the adhesive may include UV-activated adhesives, heat-activated adhesives, pressure-activated adhesives, gamma ray-activated adhesives, solvent adhesives, or other suitable adhesives. Alternatively, temporary welding may be used to secure first and second shaft components  1217 ,  1218 , respectively, to one another. A cleaning solution (not shown), removal instrument (not shown) or any other suitable mechanism may be used for disengaging the adhered components  1217 ,  1218 . 
     With reference now to  FIG. 13 , tube coupling mechanism  1300  is shown configured for releasably engaging first and second shaft components  1317 ,  1318 , respectively, of shaft  1312  to one another. Tube coupling mechanism  1300  includes one or more magnets  1322 ,  1324  imbedded within, coupled to, or disposed on first shaft component  1317  and one or more magnets  1332 ,  1334  imbedded within, coupled to, or disposed on second shaft component  1318 . Magnets  1322 ,  1332  are complementarily-shaped relative to one another and are oriented to define opposite polarities at the exposed surfaces thereof. Similarly, magnets  1324 ,  1334  are complementarily-shaped relative to one another and are oriented to define opposite polarities at the exposed surfaces thereof. Accordingly, upon approximation of shaft components  1317 ,  1318 , magnets  1322 ,  1332  are attracted to one another, and magnets  1324 ,  1334  are attracted to one another to engage first and second shaft components  1317 ,  1318 , respectively, to one another. Further, as shown in  FIG. 13 , magnets  1322 ,  1324  and magnets  1332 ,  1334  are offset relative to one another and are positioned to define a keyed-configuration, thus inhibiting rotation or disengagement of first and second shaft components  1317 ,  1318 , respectively, from one another in response to axial and/or rotational loading thereof. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 14 , another embodiment of a tube coupling mechanism is shown generally identified via reference numeral  1400 . Tube coupling mechanism  1400  is configured to releasably engage first and second components  1417 ,  1418  of shaft  1412  to one another. More specifically, tube coupling mechanism  1400  includes a plurality of cantilever arms  1420  disposed radially about longitudinal axis “A-A” and extending distally from one of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  1417 , and a plurality of complementary-shaped recesses  1432  defined within hub  1430  of the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  1418 . Similarly as described above with respect to previous embodiments, tabs  1422  extending from cantilever arms  1420  are configured for engagement within recesses  1432  of hub  1430  upon approximation of first and second shaft components  1417 ,  1418 , respectively, to engage first and second shaft components  1417 ,  1418  to one another. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 15 , tube coupling mechanism  1500  is configured to releasably engage first and second shaft components  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, of shaft  1512  to one another. One of the shaft components, e.g., first shaft component  1517 , includes an insertion portion  1520  extending from distal end  1522  thereof, while the other shaft component, e.g., second shaft component  1518 , includes a receiving portion  1530  disposed at proximal end  1532  thereof that is configured to receive insertion portion  1520  therein for releasably engaging first and second shaft component  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, to one another. Further, a release ring  1540  is disposed on first shaft component  1517  and is longitudinally slidable thereabout to permit disengagement of first and second shaft components  1517 ,  1518 , as will be described below. 
     Continuing with reference to  FIG. 15 , insertion portion  1520  of first shaft component  1517  defines a diameter that is slightly smaller than a diameter of lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530  of second shaft component  1518  to permit insertion of insertion portion  1520  into lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530  and to retain insertion portion  1520  in engagement within receiving portion  1530  via friction-fitting. Further, insertion portion  1520  defines a textured outer peripheral surface  1524  configured to facilitate engagement of insertion portion  1520  within lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530 . 
     Receiving portion  1530  of second shaft component  1518  defines a generally cylindrical configuration and is formed from a helically-wound braid, e.g., a biaxial braid, of material. Due to this braided configuration, receiving portion  1530  is elongated and constricted, i.e., the length of receiving portion  1530  is increased and the diameter of lumen  1534  is reduced, upon axial extension of receiving portion  1530 . Receiving portion  1530  is normally disposed in an at-rest position, wherein receiving portion  1530  defines a relatively smaller length and wherein lumen  1534  defines a relatively larger diameter as compared to the extended position. 
     In use, in order to engage first and second shaft components  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, to one another, insertion portion  1520  is inserted into lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530 . In this position, textured outer peripheral surface  1524  of insertion portion  1520  facilitates the frictional engagement of insertion portion  1520  of first shaft component  1517  within receiving portion  1530  of second shaft component  1518 . Further, removal of insertion portion  1520  from receiving portion  1530  is inhibited by the braided-configuration of receiving portion  1530 . More specifically, attempted withdrawal of insertion portion  1520  causes axial extension of receiving portion  1530  which, in turn, constricts, or reduces the diameter of lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530 . Accordingly, receiving portion  1530  is constricted about insertion portion  1520 , thereby increasing the frictional engagement therebetween and inhibiting withdrawal of insertion portion  1520  from receiving portion  1530 . 
     In order to disengage first and second shaft components  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, release ring  1540  is slid distally over first shaft component  1517  into position abutting the proximal end of receiving portion  1530  of second shaft components  1518 . Thereafter, while maintaining release ring  1540  in position abutting receiving portion  1530 , first shaft component  1517  is translated proximally relative to second shaft component  1518  to withdraw insertion portion  1520  from receiving portion  1530 , thereby disengaging first and second shaft component  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, from one another. Release ring  1540  inhibits extension of receiving portion  1530  during withdrawal of first shaft component  1517  such that the diameter of lumen  1534  of receiving portion  1530  is maintained. In other words, release ring  1540  inhibits extension and constriction of receiving portion  1530 , thus permitting disengagement of first and second shaft components  1517 ,  1518 , respectively, from one another. 
     From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the same. While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.