Patent Publication Number: US-10765431-B2

Title: Endoscopic surgical clip applier

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a National Stage Application of PCT/CN2016/071178 under 35USC § 371 (a), the disclosure of the above-identified application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Technical Field 
     The technical field relates to surgical clip appliers. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to endoscopic surgical clip appliers having handle assemblies configured for use with various different endoscopic assemblies. 
     Description of Related Art 
     Endoscopic surgical staplers and surgical clip appliers are known in the art and are used for a number of distinct and useful surgical procedures. In the case of a laparoscopic surgical procedure, access to the interior of an abdomen is achieved through narrow tubes or cannulas inserted through a small entrance incision in the skin. Minimally invasive procedures performed elsewhere in the body are often generally referred to as endoscopic procedures. Typically, a tube or cannula device is extended into the patient&#39;s body through the entrance incision to provide an access port. The port allows the surgeon to insert a number of different surgical instruments therethrough using a trocar and for performing surgical procedures far removed from the incision. 
     During a majority of these procedures, the surgeon must often terminate the flow of blood or another fluid through one or more vessels. The surgeon will often use a particular endoscopic surgical clip applier to apply a surgical clip to a blood vessel or another duct to prevent the flow of body fluids therethrough during the procedure. 
     Endoscopic surgical clip appliers having various sizes (e.g., diameters), that are configured to apply a variety of diverse surgical clips, are known in the art, and which are capable of applying a single or multiple surgical clips during an entry to the body cavity. Such surgical clips are typically fabricated from a biocompatible material and are usually compressed over a vessel. Once applied to the vessel, the compressed surgical clip terminates the flow of fluid therethrough. 
     Endoscopic surgical clip appliers that are able to apply multiple clips in endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures during a single entry into the body cavity are described in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,084,057 and 5,100,420 to Green et al., which are both incorporated by reference in their entirety. Another multiple endoscopic surgical clip applier is disclosed in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,607,436 by Pratt et al., the contents of which is also hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. These devices are typically, though not necessarily, used during a single surgical procedure. U.S. Pat. No. 5,695,502 to Pier et al., the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein, discloses a resterilizable endoscopic surgical clip applier. The endoscopic surgical clip applier advances and forms multiple clips during a single insertion into the body cavity. This resterilizable endoscopic surgical clip applier is configured to receive and cooperate with an interchangeable clip magazine so as to advance and form multiple clips during a single entry into a body cavity. 
     During endoscopic or laparoscopic procedures it may be desirable and/or necessary to use different size surgical clips or different configured surgical clips depending on the underlying tissue or vessels to be ligated. In order to reduce overall costs of an endoscopic surgical clip applier, it is desirable for a single endoscopic surgical clip applier to be loadable with and capable of firing different size surgical clips as needed. 
     Accordingly, a need exists for endoscopic surgical clip appliers that include handle assemblies configured for use with various different endoscopic assemblies having different clips loaded therein and/or configured for performing various different surgical tasks. 
     SUMMARY 
     As detailed herein and shown in the drawing figures, as is traditional when referring to relative positioning on a surgical instrument, the term “proximal” refers to the end of the apparatus or component thereof which is closer to the user and the term “distal” refers to the end of the apparatus or component thereof which is further away from the user. Further, to the extent consistent, any or all of the aspects and features detailed herein may be used in conjunction with any or all of the other aspects and features detailed herein. 
     Provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is a reposable surgical clip applier including a handle assembly and an endoscopic assembly. The handle assembly includes a housing defining a body portion and a fixed handle portion extending from the body portion and a trigger pivotably connected to the housing and movable relative to the fixed handle portion between an un-actuated position and an actuated position. 
     The endoscopic assembly includes a proximal hub configured to be selectively engageable with the housing of the handle assembly, an elongated shaft extending distally from the proximal hub, an end effector assembly supported at a distal end of the elongated shaft, and an inner drive assembly disposed within the proximal hub and the elongated shaft. The inner drive assembly is operably coupled to the end effector assembly such that actuation of the trigger of the handle assembly manipulates the end effector assembly. 
     The inner drive assembly includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the proximal portion such that the proximal portion may advance within the distal portion upon a blockage of the end effector assembly, thereby permitting the trigger to return to an un-actuated position. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a biasing member interposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the inner drive assembly such that the biasing member biases the proximal portion and the distal portion in a spaced apart configuration. 
     The proximal portion of the inner drive assembly may include an elongate member extending distally therefrom configured to be slidably received by a bore defined within a proximal end of the distal portion of the inner drive assembly. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a drive bar slidably supported within the body portion of the housing and operably coupled to the trigger such that movement of the trigger from the un-actuated position towards the actuated position translates the drive bar distally through the body portion of the housing. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may also include a ratchet rack disposed on the drive bar. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a ratchet pawl pivotably supported within the housing and movable relative thereto between a use position, wherein the ratchet pawl is positioned to engage the ratchet rack upon distal translation of the drive bar, and a bypass position, wherein the ratchet pawl is displaced from the ratchet rack to inhibit engagement therewith upon distal translation of the drive bar. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may also include a receiver assembly configured to releasably engage an endoscopic assembly therein. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a bypass assembly operably positioned between the receiver assembly and the ratchet pawl such that the bypass assembly is movable between a distal position and a proximal position for moving the ratchet pawl between the use position and the bypass position. 
     The proximal hub and the inner drive assembly may define an annular gap therebetween that is configured to receive a portion of the bypass assembly upon insertion of the endoscopic assembly into the receiver assembly such that the bypass assembly is maintained in the distal position upon engagement of the proximal hub within the receiver assembly, thereby maintaining the ratchet pawl in the use position and enabling engagement of the ratchet pawl with the ratchet rack during distal translation of the drive bar. 
     In use, upon movement of the trigger from the un-actuated position to an intermediate position between the un-actuated position and the actuated position, the drive bar may be positioned such that the ratchet pawl is engaged with the ratchet rack to inhibit return of the trigger towards the un-actuated position. 
     The drive bar may define a proximal recess disposed proximally of the ratchet rack and configured such that, upon movement of the trigger to the actuated position, the pawl is disposed at least partially within the proximal recess to permit return of the trigger to the un-actuated position. 
     In use, the trigger may be permitted to return towards the actuated position at each point between the un-actuated position and the actuated position. 
     According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a reposable surgical clip applier is provided and includes a handle assembly, a first endoscopic assembly, and a second endoscopic assembly. 
     The handle assembly includes a housing defining a body portion and a fixed handle portion extending from the body portion and a trigger pivotably connected to the housing and movable relative to the fixed handle portion between and un-actuated position and an actuated position. 
     The first endoscopic assembly is configured for ratcheting use and includes a proximal hub configured to be selectively engageable with the housing of the handle assembly, an elongated shaft extending distally from the proximal hub, an end effector assembly supported at a distal end of the elongated shaft, and an inner drive assembly disposed within the proximal hub and the elongated shaft. The inner drive assembly is operably coupled to the end effector assembly such that actuation of the trigger of the handle assembly manipulates the end effector assembly. The inner drive assembly includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the proximal portion such that the proximal portion may advance within the distal portion upon a blockage of the end effector assembly, thereby permitting the trigger to return to an un-actuated position. 
     The second endoscopic assembly is configured for non-ratcheting use and includes a proximal hub configured to be selectively engageable with the housing of the handle assembly and defining a proximally facing surface, an elongated shaft extending distally from the proximal hub, an end effector assembly supported at a distal end of the elongated shaft, and an inner drive assembly disposed within the proximal hub and the elongated shaft. The inner drive assembly is operably coupled to the end effector assembly such that actuation of the trigger of the handle assembly manipulates the end effector assembly. The inner drive assembly includes a proximal portion and a distal portion, wherein the distal portion is configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the proximal portion such that the proximal portion may advance within the distal portion upon a blockage of the end effector assembly, thereby permitting the trigger to return to an un-actuated position. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a biasing member interposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion of the inner drive assembly of each of the first and second endoscopic assemblies such that the biasing member biases the proximal portion and the distal portion of each of the first and second endoscopic assemblies in a spaced apart configuration. 
     The proximal portion of the inner drive assembly of each of the first and second endoscopic assemblies may include an elongate member extending distally therefrom configured to be slidably received by a bore defined within a proximal end of the distal portion of the inner drive assembly of each of the first and second endoscopic assemblies. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a drive bar slidably supported within the body portion of the housing and operably coupled to the trigger such that movement of the trigger from the un-actuated position towards the actuated position translates the drive bar distally through the body portion of the housing. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may also include a ratchet rack disposed on the drive bar. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a ratchet pawl pivotably supported within the housing and movable relative thereto between a use position, wherein the ratchet pawl is positioned to engage the ratchet rack upon distal translation of the drive bar, and a bypass potion, wherein the ratchet pawl is displaced from the ratchet rack to inhibit engagement therewith upon distal translation of the drive bar. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may also include a receiver assembly configured to releasably engage an endoscopic assembly therein. 
     The reposable surgical clip applier may further include a bypass assembly operably positioned between the receiver assembly and the ratchet pawl such that the bypass assembly is movable between a distal position and a proximal position for moving the ratchet pawl between the use position and the bypass position. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Aspects and features of the presently-disclosed endoscopic surgical clip applier are described in detail with reference to the drawing figures wherein like reference numerals identify similar or identical structural elements and: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of the proximal portion of an endoscopic surgical clip applier provided in accordance with the present disclosure including a handle assembly having an endoscopic assembly engaged therewith; 
         FIG. 2  is perspective view of the endoscopic surgical clip applier of  FIG. 1  with the endoscopic assembly removed from the handle assembly; 
         FIG. 3  is an enlarged, perspective view of the area of detail indicated as “ 3 ” in  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a transverse, cross-sectional view taken across section line  4 - 4  in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a transverse, cross-sectional view taken across section line  5 - 5  in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a transverse, cross-sectional view taken across section line  6 - 6  in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view taken across section line  7 - 7  in  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of handle assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 9  is an exploded view of the handle assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of the handle assembly of  FIG. 1  with a portion of the housing removed to illustrate the internal components therein; 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of the internal assemblies of the handle assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 12  is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the area of detail indicated as “ 12 ” in  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 13  is an enlarged, perspective view of the area of detail indicated as “ 13 ” in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 14  is an enlarged, perspective view of the area of detail indicated as “ 14 ” in  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of another endoscopic assembly configured for use with the handle assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 16  is an enlarged, perspective view of the distal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is an enlarged, perspective view of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 18  is an enlarged, perspective, of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15  with a portion of the outer housing shown in phantom to illustrate the internal components therein; 
         FIG. 19  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 20  is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 21  is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view illustrating the operable engagement between the handle assembly of  FIG. 1  and the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a perspective view of another endoscopic assembly configured for use with the handle assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 23  is an enlarged, perspective view of the distal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is an enlarged, perspective view of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 25  is an enlarged, perspective, of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22  with a portion of the outer housing shown in phantom to illustrate the internal components therein; 
         FIG. 26  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the proximal portion of the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 28  is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view illustrating the operable engagement between the handle assembly of  FIG. 1  and the endoscopic assembly of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a top, cross-sectional view illustrating an alternate embodiment of an endoscopic assembly provided in accordance with the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 30  is a schematic illustration of a robotic surgical system configured for use in accordance with the present disclosure. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Turning to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , an endoscopic surgical clip applier provided in accordance with the present disclosure is identified by reference numeral  10 . Surgical clip applier  10  generally includes a handle assembly  100  and a plurality of endoscopic assemblies  200  selectively connectable to and extendable distally from handle assembly  100 . Handle assembly  100  is advantageously configured to operate each of the plurality of endoscopic assemblies  200 , upon connection thereto, and may be configured as a sterilizable, reusable component such that handle assembly  100  may be repeatedly used with different and/or additional endoscopic assemblies  200  during the course of one or more surgical procedures. The endoscopic assemblies  200  may be configured as single-use disposable components, limited-use disposable components, or reusable components, depending upon a particular purpose and/or the configuration of the particular endoscopic assembly  200 . In either configuration, the need for multiple handle assemblies  100  is obviated and, instead, the surgeon need only select an appropriate endoscopic assembly  200  and connect that endoscopic assembly  200  to handle assembly  100  in preparation for use. 
     Handle assembly  100  is initially detailed for use in connection with a generic endoscopic assembly  200  that includes features common to any endoscopic assembly usable with handle assembly  100 . Exemplary embodiments of particular endoscopic assemblies, e.g., endoscopic assembly  300  ( FIG. 15 ) and endoscopic assembly  400  ( FIG. 22 ), are thereafter detailed below. Endoscopic assembly  300  ( FIG. 15 ), for example, is configured for grasping and manipulating tissue, retrieving a surgical clip, and firing and forming the surgical clip about tissue. Endoscopic assembly  400  ( FIG. 22 ), as another example, includes at least one surgical clip loaded therein and is configured to sequentially fire and form the at least one surgical clip about tissue. It is also envisioned that various other endoscopic assemblies for performing various different surgical tasks and/or having various different configurations may be provided for use with handle assembly  100 . 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , as noted above, endoscopic assembly  200  is configured to selectively connect to and extend distally from handle assembly  100 . Endoscopic assembly  200  includes a proximal hub  210  configured for insertion into and releasable engagement within handle assembly  100 , an elongated shaft  220  extending distally from proximal hub  210 , and an end effector assembly (not shown) disposed at the distal end of elongated shaft  220 . Internal drive components (not shown) extend through proximal hub  210  and elongated shaft  220  so as to operably couple the end effector assembly (not shown) with handle assembly  100  upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  200  with handle assembly  100 , e.g., to enable performing the one or more surgical tasks of the endoscopic assembly  200 . Proximal hub  210  defines a generally tubular configuration and includes a longitudinally-extending slot  212  defined therein and an annular groove  214  defined therein. Longitudinally-extending slot  212  defines an open proximal end  213 . Annular groove  214  extends circumferentially about proximal hub  210  and intersects longitudinally-extending slot  212 , although other non-intersecting configurations are also contemplated. 
     Referring additionally to  FIGS. 3-5 , handle assembly  100  includes a receiver assembly  170  configured to receive proximal hub  210  of endoscopic assembly  200  and enable releasable engagement of endoscopic assembly  200  with handle assembly  100 . Receiver assembly  170  includes an outer collar  172  and an inner tubular member  174 . Inner tubular member  174  defines an interior diameter slightly larger than an exterior diameter of proximal hub  210  of endoscopic assembly  200  to enable slidable insertion of proximal hub  210  into inner tubular member  174  without significant play therebetween. Inner tubular member  174  further includes a plurality of apertures  176  defined therethrough and positioned circumferentially about inner tubular member  174 . Apertures  176  define reduced interior openings  177   a  as comparted to the exterior openings  177   b  thereof. A ball bearing  178  is disposed within each of the apertures  176 . Although a portion of each ball bearing  178  protrudes inwardly through the reduced interior opening  177   a  of its respective aperture  176 , the reduced interior openings  177   a  inhibit ball bearings  178  from passing entirely therethrough. Outer collar  172  is positioned so as to block the exterior openings  177   b  of apertures, thereby retaining ball bearings  178  within apertures  176  between outer collar  172  and the reduced interior openings  177   a  (except for the portions of ball bearings  178  extending through the reduced interior openings  177   a ). 
     A pin  180  extends through a pin aperture  182  defined within inner tubular member  174  and at least partially through a pin slot  184  defined within outer collar  172 . Pin  180  extends at least partially into the interior of inner tubular member  174  and, as detailed below, is configured to facilitate alignment of endoscopic assembly  200  upon insertion of endoscopic assembly  200  into handle assembly  100 . Pin  180  is further configured to retain outer collar  172  and inner tubular member  174  in fixed rotational orientation relative to one another. Outer collar  172  is engaged with rotation knob  190  of handle assembly  100  in fixed rotational orientation such that, with pin  180  rotatably coupling outer collar  172  and inner tubular member  174 , rotation of rotation knob  190  can be effected to similarly rotate receiver assembly  170 . Rotation knob  190  includes an alignment indicator  192  disposed thereon that is aligned with pin  180  to enable alignment of endoscopic assembly  200  with receiver assembly  170  without the need to directly view the position of pin  180 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1, 2, 6 and 7 , in order to engage endoscopic assembly  200  with handle assembly  100 , endoscopic assembly  200  is oriented such that longitudinally-extending slot  212  thereof is aligned with pin  180  of receiver assembly  170 . As noted above, rather than having to view pin  180  directly, alignment of longitudinally-extending slot  212  and pin  180  can be achieved via aligning longitudinally-extending slot  212  with alignment indicator  192  of rotation knob  190  of handle assembly  100 . Once alignment has been achieved, proximal hub  210  of endoscopic assembly  200  is slid proximally into inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170 . Alignment of longitudinally-extending slot  212  and pin  180  ensures that, upon proximal sliding of proximal hub  210  into inner tubular member  174 , pin  180  is translated through longitudinally-extending slot  212 . 
     As proximal hub  210  is slid proximally into inner tubular member  174 , ball bearings  178  apply radially-inward force on the exterior of proximal hub  210  causing proximal hub  210 , outer collar  172 , inner tubular member  174 , and/or ball bearings  178  to move or flex to accommodate proximal hub  210  between ball bearings  178 . Ball bearings  178  are permitted to rotate within apertures  176  as proximal hub  210  is slid proximally into inner tubular member  174 , reducing friction and permitting relatively easy sliding of proximal hub  210  into inner tubular member  174 . Upon full insertion of proximal hub  210  into inner tubular member  174 , e.g., upon pin  180  reaching the closed, distal end of longitudinally-extending slot  212 , ball bearings  178  are moved into position about annular groove  214 . As a result of the radially-inward force imparted by ball bearings  178 , once the fully inserted position has been achieved, ball bearings  178  are urged into annular groove  214  to thereby releasably lock proximal hub  210  of endoscopic assembly  200  in engagement within receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 . The operable coupling of endoscopic assembly  200  with handle assembly  100  to enable operation thereof to perform one or more surgical tasks depends upon the type of endoscopic assembly  200  engaged with handle assembly  100  and will be detailed below with respect to exemplary endoscopic assemblies  300  ( FIG. 15 ) and  400  ( FIG. 22 ). 
     In order to remove endoscopic assembly  200  from handle assembly  100 , endoscopic assembly  200  is pulled distally relative to handle assembly  100  under sufficient urging so as to dislodge ball bearings  178  from annular groove  214 , thus permitting proximal hub  210  of endoscopic assembly  200  to be slid distally out of receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1, 2, and 8-10 , handle assembly  100  generally includes a housing  110 , a trigger assembly  120  pivotably coupled to housing  110 , a ratcheting drive assembly  130  operably coupled to trigger assembly  120 , a bypass assembly  150  operably coupled to ratcheting drive assembly  130 , receiver assembly  170  which extends distally from housing  110 , and rotation knob  190  which is operably disposed about receiver assembly  170 . 
     Housing  110  defines a body portion  111  and a fixed handle portion  112  extending downwardly from body portion  111 . Housing  110  is formed from first and second housing components  113   a ,  113   b  secured to one another via pin-post engagement, although first and second housing components  113   a ,  113   b  may alternatively be secured in any other suitable manner, e.g., ultrasonic welding, gluing, other mechanical engagement, etc. Housing  110  is configured to house the internal working components of handle assembly  100 . Body portion  111  includes a distal nose  114  defining an annular slot  115  on the interior thereof. More specifically, first and second housing components  113   a ,  113   b  each define a semi-annular slot portion such that, when first and second housing components  113   a ,  113   b  cooperate to form housing  110 , annular slot  115  is formed. Receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100  includes a retention clip  186  disposed about the proximal end of inner tubular member  174  thereof. Retention clip  186  is captured within annular slot  115  defined within distal nose  114  of housing  110 , e.g., upon engagement of first and second housing components  113   a ,  113   b  with one another. Retention clip  186  is captured within annular slot  115  to rotatably engage receiver assembly  170  with housing  110 . Rotation knob  190  of handle assembly  100  is operably engaged about receiver assembly  170 , e.g., via outer collar  172 , biasing member  194 , and elastomeric C-ring  196 , in fixed rotational orientation relative thereto such that rotation of rotation knob  190  relative to housing  110  effects similar rotation of receiver assembly  170  relative to housing  110 . Thus, with endoscopic assembly  200  engaged within receiver assembly  170 , rotation knob  190  may be rotated relative to housing  100  to similarly rotate endoscopic assembly  200  relative to housing  110 . 
     Body portion  111  of housing  110  further incudes an internal pivot post  116  extending transversely between housing components  113   a ,  113   b  and a longitudinally-extending guide track  117  defined within one or both of housing components  113   a ,  113   b , the importance of each of which is detailed below. Fixed handle portion  112  of housing  110  is configured to facilitate grasping of handle assembly  100  and manipulation thereof and is monolithically formed with body portion  111 , although other configurations are also contemplated. 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 11 , trigger assembly  120  generally includes a trigger  122 , a biasing member  127 , and a linkage  128 . Trigger  122  includes a grasping portion  123 , an intermediate pivot portion  124 , and a proximal extension portion  125 . Grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  extend downwardly from body portion  111  of housing  110  in opposed relation relative to fixed handle portion  112  of housing  110 . Grasping portion  123  is configured to facilitate grasping and manipulation of trigger  122 . Intermediate pivot portion  124  of trigger  122  is at least partially disposed within housing  110  and defines a pivot aperture  126   a  that is configured to receive pivot post  116  of housing  110  so as to enable pivoting of trigger  122  about pivot post  116  and relative to housing  110 , e.g., between an un-actuated position, wherein grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  is spaced-apart relative to fixed handle portion  112 , and an actuated position, wherein grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  is approximated relative to fixed handle portion  112 . 
     Proximal extension portion  125  of trigger  122  of trigger assembly  120  is disposed on an opposite side of intermediate pivot portion  124  and, thus, pivot post  116 , as compared to grasping portion  123  of trigger  122 . As such, pivoting of grasping portion  123  proximally, e.g., towards the actuated position, urges proximal extension portion  125  distally. Proximal extension portion  125  includes a first aperture  126   b  configured to receive a first end of biasing member  127 , and a pair of second apertures  126   c  configured to receive a first pin  129   a  for pivotably coupling the proximal end of linkage  128  and proximal extension portion  125  of trigger  122  with each other. The second end of biasing member  127  is engaged about an arm  118  extending transversely within fixed handle portion  112 . Biasing member  127  is disposed in an at-rest condition in the un-actuated position of grasping portion  123  of trigger  122 . Pivoting of grasping portion  123  towards the actuated position elongates biasing member  127  storing energy therein such that, upon release of grasping portion  123 , grasping portion  123  is returned towards the un-actuated position under the bias of biasing member  127 . Although illustrated as an extension coil spring, biasing member  127  may define any suitable configuration for biasing grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  towards the un-actuated position. 
     As noted above, linkage  128  is coupled at its proximal end to proximal extension portion  125  of trigger  122  via first pin  129   a . Linkage  128  is also pivotably coupled, at its distal end, to proximal extension  134  of drive bar  132  of ratcheting drive assembly  130  via a second pin  129   b . Second pin  129   b  extends outwardly from either or both sides of proximal extension  134  of drive bar  132  and is received within the longitudinally-extending guide track(s)  117  defined within housing component  113   a  and/or housing component  113   b . As a result of this configuration, pivoting of grasping portion  123  towards the actuated position urges proximal extension portion  125  distally which, in turn, urges linkage  128  distally such that second pin  129   b  is translated distally through longitudinally-extending guide track(s)  117 . 
     Continuing with reference to  FIGS. 1, 2, and 8-11 , ratcheting drive assembly  130  of handle assembly  100  includes a drive bar  132  and a pawl assembly  140 . Drive bar  132  includes a proximal extension  134 , a ratchet rack  136 , and distal and proximal recesses  138 ,  139 , respectively. Proximal extension  134  is disposed at the proximal end of the drive bar  132  and defines an aperture  135  configured to receive second pin  129   b  of trigger assembly  120  so as to pivotably couple the distal end of linkage  128  and drive bar  132  with one another, as noted above. As such, upon pivoting of grasping portion  123  towards the actuated position to urge second pin  129   b  distally through longitudinally-extending guide track(s)  117 , drive bar  132  is translated distally through body portion  111  of housing  110 . Ratchet rack  136  of drive bar  132  defines a plurality of teeth  137  and extends longitudinally along drive bar  132  on an upper surface thereof. Distal and proximal recesses  138 ,  139  are defined by cut-outs formed in drive bar  132  and are positioned distally adjacent ratchet rack  136  and proximally adjacent ratchet rack  136 , respectively. 
     Referring also to  FIG. 12 , pawl assembly  140  of ratcheting drive assembly  130  includes a ratchet pawl  142 , a pawl pin  144 , and a pawl biasing member  146 . Ratchet pawl  142  is pivotably coupled to body portion  111  of housing  110  by pawl pin  144  so as to enable operable engagement of ratchet pawl  142  with ratchet rack  136  when an endoscopic assembly  200  that uses the ratcheting function is connected to handle assembly  100 , and to enable pivoting of ratchet pawl  142  to a bypass position when a endoscopic assembly  200  that does not use the ratcheting function is connected to handle assembly  100 . Ratchet pawl  142  further includes a pair of outwardly-extending tabs  143  extending transversely from either side thereof, the importance of which are detailed below. 
     Pawl biasing member  146  of pawl assembly  140  is coupled between ratchet pawl  142  and body portion  111  of housing  110  so as to bias ratchet pawl  142  towards a use position and away from the bypass position. In the use position, ratchet pawl  142  is oriented to operably engage ratchet rack  136  upon distal advancement of drive bar  132 . However, in the proximal-most position of drive bar  132 , corresponding to the un-actuated position of trigger  122 , ratchet pawl  142  is disposed at least partially within distal recess  138  of drive bar  132 . Accordingly, at least initially, ratchet pawl  142  is disengaged from ratchet rack  136 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 8-14 , bypass assembly  150  is operably positioned between pawl assembly  140  and receiver assembly  170  and is configured, in response to engagement of handle assembly  100  with an endoscopic assembly  200  that does not use the ratcheting function, to pivot ratchet pawl  142  to the bypass position, thereby inhibiting ratcheting upon advancement of drive bar  132 . When an endoscopic assembly  200  that uses the ratcheting function is connected to handle assembly  100 , bypass assembly  150  remains idle such that ratchet pawl  142  remains in the use position to enable ratcheting of ratchet pawl  142  along ratchet rack  136  upon advancement of drive bar  132 . 
     Bypass assembly  150  includes a sleeve  152 , a biasing member  154 , and a camming clip  156 . Sleeve  152  extends into the proximal end of inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170  and is disposed about the distal end of drive bar  132  of drive assembly  130  in slidable relation relative to both inner tubular member  174  and drive bar  132 . Biasing member  154  is disposed within inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170  and about sleeve  152 . More specifically, biasing member  154  is retained about sleeve  152  between a distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  and an annular shoulder  179  defined within the interior of inner tubular member  174  at the proximal end thereof. As a result of this configuration, biasing member  154  biases sleeve  152  proximally into the interior of inner tubular member  174 . Distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  is radially-spaced from the interior wall defining inner tubular member  174  so as to define an annular spacing “A 1 ” therebetween. Sleeve  152  further defines an internal diameter “D 1 .” 
     Camming clip  156  of bypass assembly  150  is engaged within an annular groove  157  defined about the exterior of sleeve  152  towards the proximal end thereof. Camming clip  156  is sufficiently dimensioned so as to inhibit passage into the interior of inner tubular member  174  and, thus, inhibits sleeve  152  from fully entering inner tubular member  174  under the bias of biasing member  154 . Camming clip  156  further include a pair of opposed, inwardly extending fingers  158  at the free ends thereof. Fingers  158  are positioned such that, upon sufficient proximal urging of sleeve  152  against the bias of biasing member  154 , fingers  158  contact respective tabs  143  of ratchet pawl  142 . Thus, upon further proximal movement of sleeve  152 , fingers  158  urge respective tabs  143  proximally, ultimately such that ratchet pawl  142  is urged to rotate about pawl pin  144  and against the bias of pawl biasing member  146  from the use position to the bypass position. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 15-21 , and endoscopic assembly  300  provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with handle assembly  100  is shown. Endoscopic assembly  300  is configured for non-ratcheting use and, thus, upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  300  with handle assembly  100 , as detailed below, ratchet pawl  142  is pivoted to and retained in the bypass position, thus enabling such non-ratcheting use. Endoscopic assembly  300  generally includes a proximal hub  310 , an inner drive assembly  320  disposed within and extending through proximal hub  310 , an elongated shaft  340  extending distally from proximal hub  310 , and an end effector assembly  350  including a pair of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  disposed at the distal end of elongated shaft  340 . Endoscopic assembly  300  is configured to grasp and/or manipulate tissue, retrieve a surgical clip, and to close, fire, or form the surgical clip about tissue. It is contemplated that endoscopic assembly  300  be configured to close, fire or form surgical clips similar to those shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,096, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     With additional reference to  FIGS. 1, 2, 6, and 7 , proximal hub  310  of endoscopic assembly  300  defines a generally tubular configuration and an exterior diameter slightly smaller than that of inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100  to enable slidable insertion of proximal hub  310  into inner tubular member  174  without significant play therebetween. Proximal hub  310  further includes features similar to those detailed above with respect to endoscopic assembly  200  so as to enable engagement of proximal hub  310  within receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100  in a similar fashion. More specifically, proximal hub  310  a longitudinally-extending slot  311  configured to receive pin  180  of receiver assembly  170  to ensure proper alignment of endoscopic assembly  300  relative to handle assembly  100 , and an annular groove  312  configured to receive at least a portion of each ball bearing  178  to releasably lock proximal hub  310  of endoscopic assembly  300  in engagement within receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 15-21 , proximal hub  310  of endoscopic assembly  300  further defines an internal bore  313  having an open proximal end  314  and a reduced-diameter distal opening as compared to the diameter of bore  313  so as to define a shoulder  315  therebetween. A ferrule  316  is seated within the open proximal end of proximal hub  310  and secured therein in any suitable fashion, e.g., welding, gluing, press-fitting, mechanical engagement, etc. 
     Ferrule  316  of proximal hub  310  defines an aperture  317  extending longitudinally therethrough and a proximally-facing surface  318  surrounding aperture  317  such that proximally-facing surface  318  defines a ring-shaped configuration. Aperture  317  is disposed in communication with the interior of proximal hub  310  so as to provide access to inner drive assembly  320 , as detailed below, and defines a diameter “D 2 ” that is sufficiently large so as to permit slidable insertion of drive bar  132  of ratcheting drive assembly  130  of handle assembly  100  therethrough. However, diameter “D 2 ” of aperture  317  is smaller than internal diameter “D 1 ” of sleeve  152 . Proximally-facing surface  318  of ferrule  316  defines an annular width “A 2 ” that is larger than the annular spacing “A 1 ” defined between distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  and the interior wall defining inner tubular member  174 . As a result of diameter “D 2 ” being smaller than diameter “D 1 ” and annular width “A 2 ” being larger than annular spacing “A 1 ,” proximal hub  310  is inhibited from passing into the interior of sleeve  152  and is likewise inhibited from passing about the exterior of sleeve  152 . Rather, upon proximal urging of proximal hub  310  of endoscopic assembly  300  into inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 , e.g., to engage endoscopic assembly  300  with handle assembly  100 , proximally-facing surface  318  of ferrule  316  eventually contacts distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  such that further proximal urging of proximal hub  310  into inner tubular member  174  urges sleeve  152  proximally against the bias of biasing member  154 . 
     As noted above, endoscopic assembly  300  is configured for non-ratcheting use. Accordingly, the above-detailed configuration regarding the relative dimensions of the components of proximal hub  310  and those of bypass assembly  150  ensures that proximal hub  310  urges ratchet pawl  142  from the use position to the bypass position upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  300  with handle assembly  100 , thus disabling the ratcheting components of ratcheting drive assembly  130 . More specifically, with pin  180  received within longitudinally-extending slot  311  and proximal hub  310  sliding proximally into inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170 , but prior to engagement of ball bearings  178  within annular groove  312 , proximally-facing surface  318  of ferrule  316  contacts distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  and urges sleeve  152  proximally such that fingers  158  of camming clip  156  urge tabs  143  of ratchet pawl  142  proximally to thereby rotate ratchet pawl  142  about pawl pin  144  from the use position towards the bypass position. Accordingly, upon reaching the engaged position of proximal hub  310  within inner tubular member  174 , e.g., upon engagement of ball bearings  178  within annular groove  312 , as shown in  FIG. 21 , ferrule  316  has urged sleeve  152  to a proximal-most position wherein ratchet pawl  142  is pivoted to and retained in the bypass position. Thus, when endoscopic assembly  300  is engaged with handle assembly  100 , ratcheting of ratcheting drive assembly  130  is disabled. 
     Referring still to  FIGS. 15-21 , inner drive assembly  320  of endoscopic assembly  300  includes an inner shaft  322  slidably disposed within both proximal hub  310  and elongated shaft  340  of endoscopic assembly  300 . Inner shaft  322  includes a proximal end  323  supporting a transverse pin  324  disposed within bore  313  of proximal hub  310 , and a distal end  325  supporting a cam pin  326  disposed towards the distal end  344  of elongated shaft  340 . As detailed below, cam pin  326  is disposed within cam slots (not shown) of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  of end effector assembly  350  to enable pivoting of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  between open and closed positions in response to translation of inner shaft  322  through elongated shaft  340 . 
     Inner drive assembly  320  further includes a plunger  328  and first and second biasing members  330 ,  332 , respectively. Plunger  328  is slidably disposed within bore  313  of proximal hub  310  and is retained therein between shoulder  315  and ferrule  316 . Plunger  328  defines an internal cavity  329  within which transverse pin  324  of proximal end  323  of inner shaft  322  is slidably confined. 
     First biasing member  330  of inner drive assembly  320  is disposed within internal bore  313  of proximal hub  310  and interposed between shoulder  315  of proximal hub  310  and transverse pin  324  of inner shaft  322 . First biasing member  330  has a first spring constant “K 1 ” which is less than a second spring constant “K 2 ” of second biasing member  332 , the importance of which is detailed below. Second biasing member  332  is disposed within cavity  329  of plunger  328  and is interdisposed between transverse pin  324  of inner shaft  322  and the proximal end of plunger  328 . As detailed below, first and second biasing members  330 ,  332 , respectively, facilitate appropriate translation of inner shaft  322  through proximal hub  310  and elongated shaft  340  to open and close jaw members  360   a ,  360   b , and to enable full actuation of trigger  122  ( FIG. 1 ), as detailed below. 
     Elongated shaft  340  of endoscopic assembly  300  defines a generally tubular configuration and extends between and interconnects proximal hub  310  and end effector assembly  350 . More specifically, the proximal end  342  of elongated shaft  340  is secured to proximal hub  310 , while the distal end  344  of elongated shaft  340  supports a clevis  346  configured to pivotably engage jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  of end effector assembly  350  at distal end  344  of elongated shaft  340  via a pivot pin  352 . 
     End effector assembly  350 , as noted above, includes first and second jaw members  360   a ,  360   b . Jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  are pivotably engaged to one another and clevis  346  via pivot pin  352  so as to permit pivoting of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  relative to one another and elongated shaft  340  between an open position and a closed position. Each jaw member  360   a ,  360   b  includes a respective proximal end  361   a ,  361   b  and a respective distal end  362   a ,  362   b . The proximal end  361   a ,  361   b  of each jaw member  360   a ,  360   b  defines the cam slots (not shown) that are configured to receive cam pin  326  of inner shaft  322  such that translation of inner shaft  322  pivots jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  between the open and closed positions. The distal ends  362   a ,  362   b  of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  are configured to receive and close, fire or form a surgical clip, e.g., a surgical clip similar to those shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,096, previously incorporated herein by reference. 
     Referring momentarily to  FIG. 29 , an alternate embodiment of inner drive assembly  320  is illustrated. In this embodiment, inner shaft  322  of endoscopic assembly  300  is divided into a proximal portion  322 ′ and a distal portion  322 ″. A proximal end  322   a ″ of distal portion  322 ″ includes a bore  322   b ″ defined therein configured to slidably receive an elongate member  322   b ′ disposed on a distal end  322   a ′ of proximal portion  322 ′. A transverse slot  322   c ″ is defined through distal portion  322 ″ of inner shaft  322  and is configured to slidably retain a transverse pin  320   a ′. Transverse pin  320   a ′ is fixedly retained within an aperture (not shown) defined in the distal end  322   a ′ of proximal portion  322 ′ using any suitable means, such as friction fit, welding, adhesives, or the like. A biasing member  320   b ′ is disposed between proximal portion  322 ′ and distal portion  322 ″ of inner shaft  322  and acts upon proximal end  322   a ″ of distal portion  322 ″ and an annular surface  322   c ′ disposed on a distal end  322   a ′ of proximal portion  322 ′. In this manner, biasing member (e.g., a spring or the like)  320   b ′ is initially compressed such that proximal portion  322 ′ and distal portion  322 ″ are maintained in spaced relation. Transverse pin  320   a ′ inhibits proximal portion  322 ′ and distal portion  322 ″ from being urged apart by biasing member  320   b ′ as transverse pin  320   b ′ is at a proximal most position in the stroke of transverse slot  322   c″.    
     In operation, if the closure of the jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  should become stuck or otherwise prevented from closing completely (e.g., where the jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  are closing onto bone or onto another surgical clip), this over-load compensation system permits a forward stroke of ratcheting drive assembly  130  of handle assembly  100  may be fully completed (wherein a distal driving force of proximal portion  322 ′ of inner shaft  322  axially compresses biasing member  320   b ′ having a spring constant “K 3 ”, which is greater than that of “K 1 ” or “K 2 ”) in order to permit a re-set or a reversal of ratcheting drive assembly  130  and permit trigger  122  to open. 
     The use of handle assembly  100  in conjunction with endoscopic assembly  300  is now detailed with reference to  FIGS. 8-21 . Initially, endoscopic assembly  300  is engaged with handle assembly  100 , as detailed above. Such engagement of endoscopic assembly  300  with handle assembly  100 , as also detailed above, effects pivoting of ratchet pawl  142  to and retention of ratchet pawl  142  in the bypass position. Once endoscopic assembly  300  and handle assembly  100  are engaged with ratchet pawl  142  in the bypass position, handle assembly  100  and endoscopic assembly  300  are together ready for use. 
     In use, trigger  122  is initially disposed in the un-actuated position under the bias of biasing member  127 . With trigger  122  disposed in the un-actuated position, drive bar  132  is disposed in a proximal-most position. Further, inner shaft  322  is disposed in a proximal-most position under the bias of first and second biasing members  330 ,  332 . Thus, jaw members  360   a ,  360   b , initially, are disposed in the open position. With jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  disposed in the open position, a new, unformed or open surgical clip (not shown) may be located or loaded within the distal ends  362   a ,  362   b  of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b . Jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  of end effector assembly  350  may be used to retrieve or pick-up a surgical clip from a clip holder (not shown), the surgical clip may be manually loaded by the user, end effector assembly  350  may be pre-loaded by the manufacturer, or the surgical clip may be placed between jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  in any other suitable fashion. 
     In or to close, fire, or form the surgical clip loaded between jaw members  360   a ,  360   b , trigger  122  is urged from the un-actuated position to the actuated position. More specifically, grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  is pivoted towards fixed handle portion  112  of housing  110  to urge linkage  128  distally which, in turn, urges drive bar  132  distally through housing  110 , receiver assembly  170 , and into bore  313  of proximal hub  310  of endoscopic assembly  300 . As trigger  122  is pivoted further towards the actuated position, drive bar  132  eventually contacts plunger  328  of drive assembly  320  of endoscopic assembly  300 . Due to first spring constant “K 1 ” of first biasing member  330  being less than second spring constant “K 2 ” of second biasing member  332 , as drive bar  132  is initially urged into plunger  328 , plunger  328  and inner shaft  322  translate together distally such that first biasing member  330  is compressed while second biasing member  332  remains substantially un-compressed. 
     As inner shaft  322  is translated distally, cam pin  326  is translated through the cam slots of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  to pivot jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  towards the closed position to close and/or form the surgical clip (not shown) loaded within end effector assembly  350 . Cam pin  326  is advanced distally until cam pin  326  reaches an end of the cam slots of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  and/or until jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  are fully approximated against one another or fully closed on the surgical clip. As can be appreciated, depending upon the particular endoscopic assembly used, the configuration of the surgical clip being formed, and/or other factors, the required travel distance of inner shaft  322  to fully form the surgical clip may vary. As the distance of travel for trigger  122  between the un-actuated and actuated positions does not vary, it is endoscopic assembly  300  that accounts for this variation, as detailed below. 
     Once jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  have been fully approximated against one another or fully closed on the surgical clip, and/or when cam pin  326  has reached the end of the cam slots of jaw members  360   a ,  360   b , inner shaft  322  is no longer permitted to travel further distally. Thus, upon further distal urging of drive bar  132 , e.g., to complete the actuation stroke of trigger  122 , plunger  328  is advanced distally independently of inner shaft  322  to compress second biasing member  332 . Thus, the compression of second biasing member  332  enables inner shaft  322  to remain in position while the full actuation stroke of trigger  122  is completed. 
     Once the surgical clip has been fully formed, trigger  122  may be released and allowed to return under bias to the un-actuated position, thereby pulling drive bar  132  back to its proximal-most position and allowing jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  to return to the open position. Thereafter, the above-detailed use may be repeated to close, fire, or form additional surgical clips. Additionally or alternatively, jaw members  360   a ,  360   b  of end effector assembly  350  may be used to grasp and/or manipulate tissue as desired prior to or after formation of one or more surgical clips. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 22-28 , another endoscopic assembly  400  provided in accordance with the present disclosure and configured for use with handle assembly  100  ( FIG. 1 ) is shown. Endoscopic assembly  400  is configured for ratcheting use and, thus, upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  400  with handle assembly  100 , as detailed below, ratchet pawl  142  remains in the use position to enable ratcheting use. Endoscopic assembly  400  generally includes a proximal hub  410 , an elongated shaft  420  extending distally from proximal hub  410 , a drive assembly  430  disposed within proximal hub  410  and elongated shaft  420 , and a pair of jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  supported at the distal end of elongated shaft  420 . Endoscopic assembly  400  is configured to close, fire, or form one or more surgical clips about tissue. More specifically, it is contemplated that endoscopic assembly  400  may be configured to close, fire or form surgical clips similar to those shown and described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,819,886 or 7,905,890, the entire contents of each of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
     With reference also to  FIGS. 1, 2, 6, and 7 , proximal hub  410  further includes features similar to those detailed above with respect to endoscopic assembly  200  so as to enable engagement of proximal hub  410  within receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100  in a similar fashion. More specifically, proximal hub  410  a longitudinally-extending slot  411  configured to receive pin  180  of receiver assembly  170  to ensure proper alignment of endoscopic assembly  400  relative to handle assembly  100 , and an annular groove  412  configured to receive at least a portion of each ball bearing  178  to releasably lock proximal hub  410  of endoscopic assembly  400  in engagement within receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 . 
     As noted above, endoscopic assembly  400  is configured for ratcheting use and, thus, upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  400  with handle assembly  100  ratchet pawl  142  remains in the use position to enable ratcheting use. To allow such, proximal hub  410  defines a ring-shaped aperture  414  annularly disposed between the outer housing defining proximal hub  410  and plunger  435  of drive assembly  430 , which is slidably disposed within proximal hub  410 . This ring-shaped aperture  414  is positioned and dimensioned to receive distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  upon insertion of endoscopic assembly  400  into receiver assembly  170 . Thus, upon insertion of proximal hub  410  of endoscopic assembly  400  into inner tubular member  174  of receiver assembly  170  of handle assembly  100 , e.g., to engage endoscopic assembly  400  with handle assembly  100 , distal rim  153  of sleeve  152  passes into proximal hub  410  through ring-shaped aperture  414  undisturbed such that sleeve  152  is maintained in its distal-most position under the bias of biasing member  154 . With sleeve  152  in its distal-most position, ratchet pawl  142  remains in the use position, thus enabling ratcheting use of ratcheting drive assembly  130  of handle assembly  100 . 
     Referring back to  FIGS. 22-28 , as mentioned above, endoscopic assembly  400  includes an elongated shaft  420  extending distally from proximal hub  410 . Elongated shaft  420  includes a proximal end  422  secured to proximal hub  410  and a distal end  424  supporting first and second jaw members  460   a ,  460   b.    
     Drive assembly  430  includes an inner shaft  431  slidably supported within the interior of elongated shaft  420  and proximal hub  410 . Inner shaft  431  includes a proximal end  433  and a distal end  434 . The proximal end  433  of inner shaft  431  extends into internal bore  413  of proximal hub  410  and is operably coupled to plunger  435  of drive assembly  430  via receipt of transverse pin  436  of inner shaft  431  within longitudinal slots  437  of plunger  435 . Distal end  434  of inner shaft  431  is configured to transition first and second jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  from an open position to a closed position to form a surgical clip (not shown) that has been loaded into first and second jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  in response to distal translation of inner shaft  431  through elongated shaft  420 . 
     It is contemplated that inner shaft  431  may be split into a proximal portion and a distal portion in a similar manner as disclosed above with respect to inner shaft  322 . The components and operation of this embodiment of inner shaft  431  are similar to that of inner shaft  322 , and therefore, a detailed description of the components and operation thereof will not be described hereinbelow. 
     Drive assembly  430  further includes a stop ring  438  and first and second biasing members  439   a ,  439   b , each of which is disposed about inner shaft  431 . Stop ring  438  is fixedly engaged about inner shaft  431  and disposed within internal bore  413  of proximal hub  410 . First biasing member  439   a  is positioned distally of stop ring  438  and is retained between stop ring  438  and the distal end of proximal hub  410 . Second biasing member  439   b  is positioned proximally of stop ring  438  and is retained between stop ring  438  and the distal end of plunger  435 . First biasing member  439   a  has a first spring constant “KK 1 ” which is less than a second spring constant “KK 2 ” of second biasing member  439   b , the importance of which is detailed below. 
     The use of handle assembly  100  in conjunction with endoscopic assembly  400  is now detailed with reference to  FIGS. 8-14 and 22-28 . Initially, endoscopic assembly  400  is engaged with handle assembly  100 , as detailed above. Since endoscopic assembly  400  is configured for ratcheting use of ratcheting drive assembly  130 , ratchet pawl  142  remains disposed in the use position upon engagement of endoscopic assembly  400  with handle assembly  100 . More specifically, due to the relative positions and dimensions of ring-shaped aperture  414  of proximal hub  410  and sleeve  152  of bypass assembly  150 , as proximal hub  410  is inserted into receiver assembly  170 , sleeve  152  is received within ring-shaped aperture  414 , thereby enabling sleeve  152  to remain in its distal-most position under the bias of biasing member  154 . With sleeve  152  remaining in its distal-most position, ratchet pawl  142  is retained in the use position under the bias of pawl biasing member  146 . Thus, as detailed below, ratcheting use of handle assembly  100  and endoscopic assembly  400  is enabled. Once endoscopic assembly  400  and handle assembly  100  are engaged with ratchet pawl  142  remaining in the use position, handle assembly  100  and endoscopic assembly  400  are together ready for use. 
     In use, trigger  122  is initially disposed in the un-actuated position under the bias of biasing member  127 . With trigger  122  disposed in the un-actuated position, drive bar  132  is disposed in a proximal-most position such that ratchet pawl  142  is disposed within distal recess  138  of drive bar  132 . Further, with drive bar  132  disposed in the proximal-most position, inner shaft  431  of drive assembly  430  is disposed in a proximal-most position under the bias of first and second biasing members  439   a ,  439   b , respectively. Thus, jaw members  460   a ,  460   b , initially, are disposed in the open position. With jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  disposed in the open position, a new, unformed or open surgical clip (not shown) may be located or loaded within jaw members  460   a ,  460   b , or may be otherwise operably positioned (manually or automatically) for insertion therebetween for formation or closure about tissue upon closure of jaw members  460   a ,  460   b . For example, in some embodiments, during firing, a surgical clip is first advanced from elongated shaft  420  between jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  and, thereafter, jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  are closed to form the surgical clip. In such embodiments, a series of surgical clips may be loaded within elongated shaft  420  for sequential firing in a similar manner. However, other suitable surgical clips and/or configurations for firing thereof are also contemplated. 
     In order to close, fire, or form the surgical clip loaded between jaw members  460   a ,  460   b , trigger  122  is urged from the un-actuated position to the actuated position. More specifically, grasping portion  123  of trigger  122  is pivoted towards fixed handle portion  112  of housing  110  to urge linkage  128  distally which, in turn, urges drive bar  132  distally. As drive bar  132  is urged distally, ratchet pawl  142  moves out of distal recess  138  of drive bar  132  and into engagement with ratchet rack  136 . Once ratchet pawl  142  is engaged with ratchet rack  136 , trigger  122  may not return towards the un-actuated position and, thus, drive bar  132  may not return proximally until trigger  122  reaches the actuated position, completing a full actuation stroke thereof. 
     As drive bar  132  is translated distally, drive bar  132  is advanced through housing  110 , receiver assembly  170 , and into bore  413  of proximal hub  410  of endoscopic assembly  400 . Eventually, drive bar  132  contacts plunger  435  of drive assembly  430  of endoscopic assembly  400 . Due to first spring constant “KK 1 ” of first biasing member  439   a  being less than second spring constant “KK 2 ” of second biasing member  439   b , as drive bar  132  is initially urged into plunger  435 , plunger  435  and inner shaft  431  translate together distally such that first biasing member  439   a  is compressed while second biasing member  439   b  remains substantially un-compressed. As inner shaft  431  is translated distally, a surgical clip is first loaded between first and second jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  and, thereafter, first and second jaw members  460   a ,  460   b  are transitioned from the open position to the closed position to form the surgical clip about tissue, although other configurations are also contemplated. 
     As noted above with respect to endoscopic assembly  300  ( FIGS. 15-21 ), depending upon the particular endoscopic assembly used, the configuration of the surgical clip being formed, and/or other factors, the required travel distance of inner shaft  431  to fully form the surgical clip may vary. As also mentioned above, once ratchet pawl  142  is engaged with ratchet rack  136 , trigger  122  may not return towards the un-actuated position until trigger  122  reaches the actuated position, completing a full actuation stroke thereof. Thus, in order to enable return of trigger  122  to the un-actuated position in instances where the required length of travel of drive bar  132  to fully form the surgical clip is insufficient for ratchet pawl  142  to clear ratchet rack  136  and enter proximal recess  139  of drive bar  132 , endoscopic assembly  400  must allow further travel of drive bar  132 , as detailed below. 
     As trigger  122  is further actuated to complete the full actuation stroke thereof, plunger  435  is continued to be driven distally. However, since inner shaft  431  cannot travel further distally, second biasing member  439   b  is compressed, thus allowing plunger  435  to translate distally independently of inner shaft  431 . That is, the compression of second biasing member  439   b  enables inner shaft  431  to remain in position while the full actuation stroke of trigger  122  is completed. 
     Upon full actuation of trigger  122 , e.g., upon reaching the actuated position of trigger  122 , ratchet pawl  142  is moved into proximal recess  139  of drive bar  132 . With ratchet pawl  142  disposed within proximal recess  139 , trigger  122  may be released and returned to the un-actuated position under the bias of biasing member  127 . Thereafter, the above-detailed use may be repeated to close, fire, or form additional surgical clips. 
     It is contemplated, and within the scope of the present disclosure, that other endoscopic assemblies, including a pair of jaws having a unique and diverse closure stroke length thereof, may be provided for use with handle assembly  100  for ratcheting use or non-ratcheting use, similarly as detailed above with respect to endoscopic assemblies  300 ,  400  ( FIGS. 15-21 and 22-28 , respectively). Such a configuration accommodates various different endoscopic assemblies having different configurations and/or different closure stroke lengths while providing a constant actuation stroke length of trigger  122 . Accordingly, various endoscopic assemblies, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, may be provided which are also capable of firing or forming or closing surgical clips of various sizes, materials, and configurations, across multiple platforms for multiple different manufactures. 
     Surgical instruments such as the clip appliers described herein may also be configured to work with robotic surgical systems and what is commonly referred to as “Telesurgery.” Such systems employ various robotic elements to assist the surgeon and allow remote operation (or partial remote operation) of surgical instrumentation. Various robotic arms, gears, cams, pulleys, electric and mechanical motors, etc. may be employed for this purpose and may be designed with a robotic surgical system to assist the surgeon during the course of an operation or treatment. Such robotic systems may include remotely steerable systems, automatically flexible surgical systems, remotely flexible surgical systems, remotely articulating surgical systems, wireless surgical systems, modular or selectively configurable remotely operated surgical systems, etc. 
     The robotic surgical systems may be employed with one or more consoles that are next to the operating theater or located in a remote location. In this instance, one team of surgeons or nurses may prep the patient for surgery and configure the robotic surgical system with one or more of the instruments disclosed herein while another surgeon (or group of surgeons) remotely control the instruments via the robotic surgical system. As can be appreciated, a highly skilled surgeon may perform multiple operations in multiple locations without leaving his/her remote console which can be both economically advantageous and a benefit to the patient or a series of patients. 
     The robotic arms of the surgical system are typically coupled to a pair of master handles by a controller. The handles can be moved by the surgeon to produce a corresponding movement of the working ends of any type of surgical instrument (e.g., end effectors, graspers, knifes, scissors, etc.) which may complement the use of one or more of the embodiments described herein. The movement of the master handles may be scaled so that the working ends have a corresponding movement that is different, smaller or larger, than the movement performed by the operating hands of the surgeon. The scale factor or gearing ratio may be adjustable so that the operator can control the resolution of the working ends of the surgical instrument(s). 
     The master handles may include various sensors to provide feedback to the surgeon relating to various tissue parameters or conditions, e.g., tissue resistance due to manipulation, cutting or otherwise treating, pressure by the instrument onto the tissue, tissue temperature, tissue impedance, etc. As can be appreciated, such sensors provide the surgeon with enhanced tactile feedback simulating actual operating conditions. The master handles may also include a variety of different actuators for delicate tissue manipulation or treatment further enhancing the surgeon&#39;s ability to mimic actual operating conditions. 
     Referring to  FIG. 30 , a medical work station is shown generally as work station  1000  and generally may include a plurality of robot arms  1002 ,  1003 ; a control device  1004 ; and an operating console  1005  coupled with control device  1004 . Operating console  1005  may include a display device  1006 , which may be set up in particular to display three-dimensional images; and manual input devices  1007 ,  1008 , by means of which a person (not shown), for example a surgeon, may be able to telemanipulate robot arms  1002 ,  1003  in a first operating mode. 
     Each of the robot arms  1002 ,  1003  may include a plurality of members, which are connected through joints, and an attaching device  1009 ,  1011 , to which may be attached, for example, a surgical tool “ST” supporting an end effector  1100 , in accordance with any one of several embodiments disclosed herein, as will be described in greater detail below. 
     Robot arms  1002 ,  1003  may be driven by electric drives (not shown) that are connected to control device  1004 . Control device  1004  (e.g., a computer) may be set up to activate the drives, in particular by means of a computer program, in such a way that robot arms  1002 ,  1003 , their attaching devices  1009 ,  1011  and thus the surgical tool (including end effector  1100 ) execute a desired movement according to a movement defined by means of manual input devices  1007 ,  1008 . Control device  1004  may also be set up in such a way that it regulates the movement of robot arms  1002 ,  1003  and/or of the drives. 
     Medical work station  1000  may be configured for use on a patient  1013  lying on a patient table  1012  to be treated in a minimally invasive manner by means of end effector  1100 . Medical work station  1000  may also include more than two robot arms  1002 ,  1003 , the additional robot arms likewise being connected to control device  1004  and being telemanipulatable by means of operating console  1005 . A medical instrument or surgical tool (including an end effector  1100 ) may also be attached to the additional robot arm. Medical work station  1000  may include a database  1014 , in particular coupled to with control device  1004 , in which are stored, for example, pre-operative data from patient/living being  1013  and/or anatomical atlases. 
     Reference is made herein to U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0116416, filed on Nov. 3, 2011, entitled “Medical Workstation,” the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference, for a more detailed discussion of the construction and operation of an exemplary robotic surgical system. 
     It is contemplated, and within the scope of the present disclosure, that other endoscopic assemblies, including a pair of jaws having a unique and diverse closure stroke length thereof, may be provided with a drive assembly, similar to any of the drive assemblies described herein, for accommodating and adapting the closure stroke length for the pair of jaws thereof to the constant trigger stroke length. 
     Accordingly, various endoscopic assemblies, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, may be provided which are also capable of firing or forming or closing surgical clips of various sizes, materials, and configurations, across multiple platforms for multiple different manufactures. 
     It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances. The embodiments described with reference to the attached drawing figures are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. Other elements, steps, methods and techniques that are insubstantially different from those described above and/or in the appended claims are also intended to be within the scope of the disclosure. 
     It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances. The embodiments described with reference to the attached drawing figures are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. Other elements, steps, methods and techniques that are insubstantially different from those described above and/or in the appended claims are also intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.