Patent Description:
Examples of endoscopic surgical instruments include surgical staplers. Some such staplers are operable to clamp down on layers of tissue, cut through the clamped layers of tissue, and drive staples through the layers of tissue to substantially seal the severed layers of tissue together near the severed ends of the tissue layers. Merely exemplary surgical staplers are disclosed in <CIT>; <CIT>; and <CIT>.

Surgical staplers may also be used in open procedures and/or other non-endoscopic procedures. By way of example only, a surgical stapler may be inserted through a thoracotomy and thereby between a patient's ribs to reach one or more organs in a thoracic surgical procedure that does not use a trocar as a conduit for the stapler. For instance, the vessels leading to an organ may be severed and closed by a stapler before removal of the organ from the thoracic cavity. Of course, surgical staplers may be used in various other settings and procedures.

<CIT> and <CIT> each describe a buttress applicator that causes the jaws of an end effector to close onto one or more buttress assemblies. The buttress applicator has a frame extending between a proximal end and a distal end. The frame includes a dual hinge knuckle positioned at or near the distal end and a compression pad or platform extending proximally from the knuckle to the proximal end. The buttress applicator further comprises a pair of movable members in the form of opposing pivotable lever arms coupled to the knuckle via respective hinge pins and configured to pivot relative to the platform, and to receive an end effector. The platform supports at least one buttress assembly. The lever arms include respective generally flat inner closure surfaces to mechanically engage respective outer external surfaces of the end effector jaws and thereby transition the end effector from an open state toward a closed state when the platform is positioned between jaws. The closure surfaces are collectively capable of partially surrounding the end effector and to be in contact with respective outer external surfaces of the jaws. To use the buttress applicator to load an end effector, the operator would first position the buttress applicator and the end effector such that the platform and the buttress assembly are positioned between an anvil and a staple cartridge of the end effector and such that the end effector is received between the lever arms. The operator would then advance the buttress applicator proximally relative to the end effector to mechanically engage the closure surfaces with the outer external surfaces of the respective jaws, thereby adhesively attaching the buttress assembly to the end effector.

<CIT> buttress loading station that can be used to load an end effector with a buttress and to then verify whether the buttress has been properly placed. The buttress loading station is connected to a power source via a wired connector, and includes a base portion having a display and one or more controls. The buttress loading station includes a buttress loading portion and a buttress inspection portion. The loading portion includes a cartridge holder having a plurality of buttress reload cartridges. Each buttress cartridge is shaped as an inverted "U," with the straight edges between the base and arms of the "U. " The buttress is held within slots formed on the inner walls of the arms. Each of the buttress cartridges includes a sensor to communicate with the buttress loading station. In this way, the buttress loading station can detect the presence of the buttress cartridges. Also, it can keep track of how many unused and used buttress cartridges are held by the holder. In use, an end effector is brought to the buttress loading portion of the buttress loading station and placed such that its jaws have a buttress removably held by the buttress cartridge between them. The jaws are then caused to close and engage the buttress such that the buttress becomes attached to the jaws of the end effector. Thus, the buttress becomes attached to both a channel having a staple cartridge assembly loaded therein and an anvil of the end effector. A surgical robotic system can communicate wirelessly with the buttress loading station to exchange suitable information. The display displays information related to the status of the buttress currently being loaded, or its type, and other information. The controls can be used to control the operation of the buttress loading station.

The present invention provides an apparatus according to claim <NUM>, comprising a body and a closure member. The body has an interior space sized and shaped to receive a surgical stapler end effector in an open state in combination with an adjunct applicator that includes an adjunct. The closure member is movably coupled with the body, and is actuatable to close the surgical stapler end effector onto the adjunct applicator so that the adjunct is applied to a stapling surface of the surgical stapler end effector. The body includes a bottom wall and a pair of support members extending upwardly from the bottom wall, spaced apart from one another and configured to contact and support the underside of the adjunct applicator.

The present invention also provides a method according to claim <NUM>. The method includes coupling an adjunct applicator with an end effector closure device that is operable to close an end effector of a surgical stapler and is provided separately from the surgical stapler, wherein the end effector closure device constitutes an apparatus according to the previous paragraph and coupling the adjunct applicator with the end effector closure device comprises inserting the adjunct applicator into the interior space of the end effector closure device, and wherein the adjunct applicator includes a platform and an adjunct positioned on the platform. The method further comprises positioning the platform between first and second stapling surfaces of the end effector in an open state while the adjunct applicator remains coupled with the end effector closure device, and actuating the movable closure member of the end effector closure device to contact an exterior of the end effector with the end effector closure device and thereby close the end effector onto the platform of the adjunct applicator.

The invention as claimed is described with reference to <FIG> and the remaining figures illustrate background and contextual material, and alternative designs.

For clarity of disclosure, the terms "proximal" and "distal" are defined herein relative to a human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument. The term "proximal" refers the position of an element closer to the human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument and further away from the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument. The term "distal" refers to the position of an element closer to the surgical end effector of the surgical instrument and further away from the human or robotic operator of the surgical instrument. In addition, the terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," "top," are relative terms to provide additional clarity to the figure descriptions provided below. The terms "upper," "lower," "lateral," "transverse," "bottom," "top," are thus not intended to unnecessarily limit the invention described herein.

Furthermore, the terms "about," "approximately," and the like as used herein in connection with any numerical values or ranges of values are intended to encompass the exact value(s) referenced as well as a suitable tolerance that enables the referenced feature or combination of features to function for the intended purpose described herein.

<FIG> depict an exemplary surgical stapling and severing instrument (<NUM>) (also referred to herein as a surgical stapler) that is sized for insertion through a trocar cannula or an incision (e.g., thoracotomy, etc.) to a surgical site in a patient for performing a surgical procedure. Instrument (<NUM>) of the present example includes a handle portion (<NUM>) connected to a shaft (<NUM>), which distally terminates in an articulation joint (<NUM>), which is further coupled with an end effector (<NUM>). Once articulation joint (<NUM>) and end effector (<NUM>) are inserted through the cannula passageway of a trocar, articulation joint (<NUM>) may be remotely articulated, as depicted in phantom in <FIG>, by an articulation control (<NUM>), such that end effector (<NUM>) may be deflected from the longitudinal axis (LA) of shaft (<NUM>) at a desired angle (α). End effector (<NUM>) of the present example includes a lower jaw (<NUM>) that includes a staple cartridge (<NUM>), and an upper jaw in the form of a pivotable anvil (<NUM>).

Handle portion (<NUM>) includes a pistol grip (<NUM>) and a closure trigger (<NUM>). Closure trigger (<NUM>) is pivotable toward pistol grip (<NUM>) to cause clamping, or closing, of anvil (<NUM>) toward lower jaw (<NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>). Such closing of anvil (<NUM>) is provided through a closure tube (<NUM>) and a closure ring (<NUM>), which both longitudinally translate relative to handle portion (<NUM>) in response to pivoting of closure trigger (<NUM>) relative to pistol grip (<NUM>). Closure tube (<NUM>) extends along the length of shaft (<NUM>); and closure ring (<NUM>) is positioned distal to articulation joint (<NUM>). Articulation joint (<NUM>) is operable to communicate/transmit longitudinal movement from closure tube (<NUM>) to closure ring (<NUM>).

As shown in <FIG>, handle portion (<NUM>) also includes a firing trigger (<NUM>). An elongate member (not shown) longitudinally extends through shaft (<NUM>) and communicates a longitudinal firing motion from handle portion (<NUM>) to a firing beam (<NUM>) in response to actuation of firing trigger (<NUM>). This distal translation of firing beam (<NUM>) causes the stapling and severing of clamped tissue in end effector (<NUM>), as will be described in greater detail below.

As shown in <FIG>, end effector (<NUM>) employs a firing beam (<NUM>) that includes a transversely oriented upper pin (<NUM>), a firing beam cap (<NUM>), a transversely oriented middle pin (<NUM>), and a distally presented cutting edge (<NUM>). Upper pin (<NUM>) is positioned and translatable within a longitudinal anvil slot (<NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>). Firing beam cap (<NUM>) slidably engages a lower surface of lower jaw (<NUM>) by having firing beam (<NUM>) extend through lower jaw slot (<NUM>) (shown in <FIG>) that is formed through lower jaw (<NUM>). Middle pin (<NUM>) slidingly engages a top surface of lower jaw (<NUM>), cooperating with firing beam cap (<NUM>).

<FIG> shows firing beam (<NUM>) of the present example proximally positioned and anvil (<NUM>) pivoted to an open configuration, allowing an unspent staple cartridge (<NUM>) to be removably installed into a channel of lower jaw (<NUM>). As best seen in <FIG>, staple cartridge (<NUM>) of the present example includes a cartridge body (<NUM>), which presents an upper deck (<NUM>) and is coupled with a lower cartridge tray (<NUM>). As best seen in <FIG>, a vertical slot (<NUM>) extends longitudinally through a portion of staple cartridge body (<NUM>). As also best seen in <FIG>, three rows of staple apertures (<NUM>) are formed through upper deck (<NUM>) on each lateral side of vertical slot (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, a wedge sled (<NUM>) and a plurality of staple drivers (<NUM>) are captured between cartridge body (<NUM>) and tray (<NUM>), with wedge sled (<NUM>) being located proximal to staple drivers (<NUM>). Wedge sled (<NUM>) is movable longitudinally within staple cartridge (<NUM>); while staple drivers (<NUM>) are movable vertically within staple cartridge (<NUM>). Staples (<NUM>) are also positioned within cartridge body (<NUM>), above corresponding staple drivers (<NUM>). Each staple (<NUM>) is driven vertically within cartridge body (<NUM>) by a staple driver (<NUM>) to drive staple (<NUM>) out through an associated staple aperture (<NUM>). As best seen in <FIG> and <FIG>, wedge sled (<NUM>) presents inclined cam surfaces that urge staple drivers (<NUM>) upwardly as wedge sled (<NUM>) is driven distally through staple cartridge (<NUM>).

With end effector (<NUM>) closed, as depicted in <FIG> by distally advancing closure tube (<NUM>) and closure ring (<NUM>), firing beam (<NUM>) is then advanced distally into engagement with anvil (<NUM>) by having upper pin (<NUM>) enter longitudinal anvil slot (<NUM>). A pusher block (<NUM>) (shown in <FIG>) located at distal end of firing beam (<NUM>) pushes wedge sled (<NUM>) distally as firing beam (<NUM>) is advanced distally through staple cartridge (<NUM>) when firing trigger (<NUM>) is actuated. During such firing, cutting edge (<NUM>) of firing beam (<NUM>) enters vertical slot (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>), severing tissue clamped between staple cartridge (<NUM>) and anvil (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, middle pin (<NUM>) and pusher block (<NUM>) together actuate staple cartridge (<NUM>) by entering into vertical slot (<NUM>) within staple cartridge (<NUM>), driving wedge sled (<NUM>) into upward camming contact with staple drivers (<NUM>), which in turn drives staples (<NUM>) out through staple apertures (<NUM>) and into forming contact with staple forming pockets (<NUM>) (shown in <FIG>) on inner surface of anvil (<NUM>). <FIG> depicts firing beam (<NUM>) fully distally translated after completing severing and stapling of tissue. Staple forming pockets (<NUM>) are intentionally omitted from the view in <FIG> but are shown in <FIG>. Anvil (<NUM>) is intentionally omitted from the view in <FIG>.

<FIG> shows end effector (<NUM>) having been actuated through a single firing stroke through tissue (<NUM>). Cutting edge (<NUM>) (obscured in <FIG>) has cut through tissue (<NUM>), while staple drivers (<NUM>) have driven three alternating rows of staples (<NUM>) through tissue (<NUM>) on each side of the cut line produced by cutting edge (<NUM>). After the first firing stroke is complete, end effector (<NUM>) is withdrawn from the patient, spent staple cartridge (<NUM>) is replaced with a new staple cartridge (<NUM>), and end effector (<NUM>) is then again inserted into the patient to reach the stapling site for further cutting and stapling. This process may be repeated until the desired quantity and pattern of firing strokes across the tissue (<NUM>) has been completed.

Instrument (<NUM>) may be further constructed and operable in accordance with any of the teachings of the following references: <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; and/or <CIT>.

In some instances, it may be desirable to equip the stapling surfaces defined by anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>) of surgical stapler (<NUM>) with an adjunct material, such as a buttress, to reinforce the mechanical fastening of tissue provided by staples (<NUM>). Such a buttress may prevent the applied staples (<NUM>) from pulling through the tissue and may otherwise reduce a risk of tissue tearing at or near the site of applied staples (<NUM>). In addition to or as an alternative to providing structural support and integrity to a line of staples (<NUM>), a buttress may provide various other kinds of effects such as spacing or gap-filling, administration of therapeutic agents, and/or other effects. In some instances, a buttress may be provided on upper deck (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>). As described above, deck (<NUM>) houses staples (<NUM>), which are driven by staple driver (<NUM>). In some other instances, a buttress may be provided on the surface of anvil (<NUM>) that faces staple cartridge (<NUM>). It should also be understood that a first buttress may be provided on upper deck (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>) while a second buttress is provided on anvil (<NUM>) of the same end effector (<NUM>).

Various examples of forms that a buttress may take will be described in greater detail below. Various ways in which a buttress may be secured to a staple cartridge (<NUM>) or an anvil (<NUM>) will also be described in greater detail below. Exemplary buttress assemblies, exemplary materials and techniques for applying buttress assemblies, and exemplary applicator devices may be configured in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; <CIT>; and/or <CIT>.

<FIG> shows an exemplary pair of adjuncts in the form of buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) (each also referred to individually as a "buttress"). Buttress assembly (<NUM>) of this example comprises a buttress body (<NUM>) and an upper adhesive layer (<NUM>). Similarly, buttress assembly (<NUM>) comprises a buttress body (<NUM>) and a lower adhesive layer (<NUM>). In the present example, each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprises a strong yet flexible material configured to structurally support a line of staples (<NUM>). By way of example only, each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) may comprise a mesh of polyglactin <NUM> material by Ethicon, Inc. of Somerville, New Jersey. Alternatively, any other suitable materials or combinations of materials may be used in addition to or as an alternative to polyglactin <NUM> material to form each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>).

Each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) may comprise a material including, for example, a hemostatic agent such as fibrin to assist in coagulating blood and reduce bleeding at the severed and/or stapled surgical site along tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>). As another merely illustrative example, each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) may comprise other adjuncts or hemostatic agents such as thrombin may be used such that each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) may assist to coagulate blood and reduce the amount of bleeding at the surgical site. Other adjuncts or reagents that may be incorporated into each buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) may further include but are not limited to medical fluid or matrix components.

In the present example, adhesive layer (<NUM>) is provided on buttress body (<NUM>) to adhere buttress body (<NUM>) to underside (<NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>). Similarly, adhesive layer (<NUM>) is provided on buttress body (<NUM>) to adhere buttress body (<NUM>) to upper deck (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>). Such an adhesive material may provide proper positioning of buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) before and during actuation of end effector (<NUM>); then allow buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) to separate from end effector (<NUM>) after end effector (<NUM>) has been actuated, without causing damage to buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>) that is substantial enough to compromise the proper subsequent functioning of buttress body (<NUM>, <NUM>).

<FIG> show an exemplary sequence in which end effector (<NUM>), which has been loaded with buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) on its stapling sufaces, is actuated to drive staples (<NUM>) through two opposed layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>), with buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) being secured to the same layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) by staples (<NUM>). In particular, <FIG> shows layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) positioned between anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>), with anvil (<NUM>) in open position. Buttress assembly (<NUM>) is adhered to underside (<NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>) via adhesive layer (<NUM>); while buttress assembly (<NUM>) is adhered to upper deck (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>) via adhesive layer (<NUM>). Layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) are thus interposed between buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>). Next, closure trigger (<NUM>) is pivoted toward pistol grip (<NUM>) to drive closure tube (<NUM>) and closure ring (<NUM>) distally. This drives anvil (<NUM>) to the closed position as shown in <FIG>. At this stage, layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) are compressed between anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>), with buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) engaging opposite surfaces of tissue layers (T<NUM>, T<NUM>). End effector (<NUM>) is then actuated as described above, driving staple (<NUM>) through buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) and tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>). As shown in FIG. 13C, crown (<NUM>) of driven staple (<NUM>) captures and retains buttress assembly (<NUM>) against layer of tissue (T<NUM>). Deformed legs (<NUM>) of staple (<NUM>) capture and retain buttress assembly (<NUM>) against layer of tissue (T<NUM>).

A series of staples (<NUM>) similarly capture and retain buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) against layers of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>), thereby securing buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) as shown in <FIG>. As end effector (<NUM>) is pulled away from tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) after deploying staples (<NUM>) and buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) disengage end effector such that buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) remain secured to tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>) with staples (<NUM>). Buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) thus provides structural reinforcement to the lines of staples (<NUM>) formed in tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>). As can also be seen in <FIG>, distally presented cutting edge (<NUM>) of firing beam (<NUM>) also cuts through a centerline of buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), separating each buttress assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) into a corresponding pair of sections, such that each section remains secured to a respective severed region of tissue (T<NUM>, T<NUM>).

Because end effector (<NUM>) of surgical stapler (<NUM>) may be actuated multiple times during a single surgical procedure, it may be desirable to enable an operator to repeatedly and easily load buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) onto lower jaw and anvil (<NUM>, <NUM>) during that single surgical procedure. <FIG> show an exemplary adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) (also referred to as a "buttress applicator" or a "buttress applier cartridge") that may be used to support, protect, and apply adjunct material, such as buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), to end effector (<NUM>). As best seen in <FIG>, applicator device (<NUM>) of this example comprises an open end (<NUM>) and a closed end (<NUM>). Open end (<NUM>) is configured to receive end effector (<NUM>) as will be described in greater detail below. Applicator device (<NUM>) further includes a body having a first housing (216a) and a second housing (216b), which each collectively generally define a "U" shape to present open end (<NUM>). A platform (<NUM>) and a sled retainer (<NUM>) are interposed between first and second housings (216a, 216b).

Platform (<NUM>) of the present example is configured to support a pair of buttress assemblies (<NUM>) on one side of platform (<NUM>) and another pair of buttress assemblies (<NUM>) on the other side of platform (<NUM>). Platform (<NUM>) is exposed in recesses that are formed between the prongs of the "U" configuration of first and second housings (216a, 216b). Each buttress assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) is provided in a respective pair of portions that are separated to avoid spanning across slots (<NUM>, <NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>), respectively, though platform (<NUM>) may just as easily support wide versions of buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) that unitarily span across slots (<NUM>, <NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>), respectively. More specifically, outer edges of platform (<NUM>) include retention features in the form of ridges that further engage first and second housings (216a, 216b) to prevent platform (<NUM>) from sliding relative to first and second housings (216a, 216b).

First and second housings (216a, 216b) include integral gripping features (<NUM>) and indicator plates (<NUM>) positioned to correspond with windows (<NUM>) formed in first and second housings (216a, 216b), such that indicator plates (<NUM>) are visible through windows (<NUM>) at different times. Arms (<NUM>) of the present example are configured to selectively secure buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to platform (<NUM>). In the present example, arms (<NUM>) are resilient and are thus configured to resiliently bear against buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), thereby pinching buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) against platform (<NUM>). Applicator device (<NUM>) includes a pair of tapered cam surfaces (<NUM>) and a respective pair of housing engagement features (<NUM>) positioned to engage corresponding surfaces of first and second housings (216a, 216b). First and second housings (216a, 216b) include proximal guide features (<NUM>) and distal guide features (<NUM>) configured to assist in providing proper alignment of end effector (<NUM>) with applicator device (<NUM>).

<FIG> shows adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) in a configuration where retainer arms (<NUM>) are positioned to hold buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) against platform (<NUM>); while <FIG> shows applicator device (<NUM>) in a configuration where retainer arms (<NUM>) are positioned to release buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) from platform (<NUM>). While <FIG> only show buttress assembly (<NUM>) on platform (<NUM>), buttress assembly (<NUM>) would be retained on and released from platform (<NUM>) in an identical fashion. To use applicator device (<NUM>) to load end effector (<NUM>), the operator would first position applicator device (<NUM>) and end effector (<NUM>) such that end effector is aligned with open end (<NUM>) of applicator device (<NUM>) as shown in <FIG>. The operator would then advance end effector (<NUM>) distally, and/or advance adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) proximally, to position platform (<NUM>) and buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) between anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>) as shown in <FIG>. Closure trigger (<NUM>) of instrument (<NUM>) is then squeezed by the operator to close lower jaw and anvil (<NUM>, <NUM>) on platform (<NUM>), thereby adhesively attaching buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>), and simultaneously depressing cam surface (<NUM>). Depression of cam surface (<NUM>) actuates retainer arms (<NUM>) laterally outwardly to thereby release buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) from platform (<NUM>), such that lower jaw and anvil (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be disengaged from platform (<NUM>) while buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) remain adhered to anvil (<NUM>) and staple cartridge (<NUM>). Adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) may be further configured in accordance with any of the disclosures mentioned above.

In some instances, it may be desirable to apply one or more adjuncts, such as buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), to the stapling surfaces of surgical stapler end effector (<NUM>) without actuating an end effector closure assembly of stapler (<NUM>) via closure trigger (<NUM>). For instance, variations of stapler (<NUM>) that are configured to be mounted to a surgical robot may omit a traditional handle assembly and corresponding operator-actuatable features, such as closure trigger (<NUM>) and firing trigger (<NUM>), such that traditional actuation of the end effector closure assembly of stapler (<NUM>) is controllable only by the surgical robot. Furthermore, in some such instances, an operator may have a need to apply the one or more adjuncts to end effector (<NUM>) without activating the surgical robot, for example when stapler (<NUM>) is decoupled from the surgical robot or when the surgical robot is in a deactivated state. The exemplary devices described below are configured to directly contact and facilitate closure of end effector (<NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>) of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), or onto a similar adjunct-carrying structure of other types of adjunct applicator devices, so that one or more adjuncts may be applied to a corresponding one or more stapling surfaces of end effector (<NUM>) without traditional actuation of the end effector closure assembly.

<FIG> show an exemplary end effector closure device (<NUM>) that is operable to receive and support adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) in combination with end effector (<NUM>) in an open state, and to directly contact and close end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) onto applicator platform (<NUM>) to apply an adjunct, such as a buttress assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>), to the stapling surface of one or both jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) without actuation of closure trigger (<NUM>). Accordingly, end effector closure device (<NUM>) is configured to cooperate with applicator device (<NUM>) to define an adjunct applicator system.

As shown in <FIG>, end effector closure device (<NUM>) includes a lower body having a frame (<NUM>) and a support structure (<NUM>) configured to support an underside of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), and an upper movable member in the form of a lever (<NUM>) pivotably coupled with frame (<NUM>) in a clamshell-like configuration and movable between a raised open position and a lowered closed position. Frame (<NUM>) of the present example is generally rectangular and formed as a unitary structure that includes a proximal end opening (<NUM>), a distal end wall (<NUM>), and a pair of elongate side walls (<NUM>) and a bottom wall (<NUM>) extending longitudinally between proximal end opening (<NUM>) and distal end wall (<NUM>). Distal end wall (<NUM>), side walls (<NUM>), and bottom wall (<NUM>) cooperate to define an interior space of closure device (<NUM>) in which adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) is configured to be received and supported by support structure (<NUM>), as described in greater detail below. Additionally, distal end wall (<NUM>) and side walls (<NUM>) cooperate to define an upper opening (<NUM>) opposed from bottom wall (<NUM>) and in which lever (<NUM>) is movable to engage an exterior jaw surface of end effector (<NUM>).

Frame side walls (<NUM>) of end effector closure device (<NUM>) include a pair of distal retaining arms (<NUM>) configured to overlie a top surface of a distal portion of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), and a pair of proximal retaining arms (<NUM>) configured overlie the top surface of a proximal portion of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>). Distal and proximal retaining arms (<NUM>) cooperate to constrain adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) in a vertical direction when applicator device (<NUM>) is loaded into closure device (<NUM>), for example as shown in <FIG>. Each proximal retaining arm (<NUM>) includes a lever stop feature in the form of a generally flat stop surface (<NUM>) that overlies proximal end opening (<NUM>) and is configured to contact an underside of lever (<NUM>) in its closed position, for example as shown in <FIG>, to thereby limit a range of rotation of lever (<NUM>).

A distal end portion of frame (<NUM>) includes a pair of pivot support structures (<NUM>) each integrated into the distal end of a respective side wall (<NUM>) and having an upwardly opening, tapered recess (<NUM>) configured to receive a respective pivot post (<NUM>) of lever (<NUM>), described in greater detail below. A pair of applicator stop members (<NUM>) in the form of vertical fins extend upwardly from bottom wall (<NUM>) between pivot support structures (<NUM>) within the interior space of frame (<NUM>). Applicator stop members (<NUM>) are configured to abut a distal end of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) and thereby constrain applicator device (<NUM>) distally when loaded into closure device (<NUM>).

Support structure (<NUM>) of end effector closure device (<NUM>) is shaped and sized to be seated within a channel (<NUM>) formed in bottom wall (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>) and is permanently affixed to frame (<NUM>) via a plurality of coupling protrusions (<NUM>) extending upwardly from frame (<NUM>) within channel (<NUM>). Coupling protrusions (<NUM>) may be configured to couple with support structure (<NUM>) via press-fit, snap-fit, or heat staking, for example, though it will be appreciated that support structure (<NUM>) may be affixed to frame (<NUM>) in a variety of other manners readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the teachings herein.

Support structure (<NUM>) of the present example is formed as a single unitary structure that includes a base (<NUM>) having a central tongue (<NUM>) shaped to be seated within channel (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>), and a pair of side arms (<NUM>) each spaced apart laterally from a respective side of central tongue (<NUM>) and having a free distal end configured to mate with a respective proximal edge feature of frame (<NUM>), for example with a tongue-and-groove interface. An end effector jaw support feature in the form of an elongate rail (<NUM>) protrudes upwardly from and extends longitudinally along central tongue (<NUM>). Elongate rail (<NUM>) includes a ramped proximal end and a concave upper surface that enables elongate rail (<NUM>) to contact and support an exterior surface of a jaw (<NUM>, <NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>) when lever (<NUM>) is closed onto end effector (<NUM>), for example as shown in <FIG> and <FIG> described below.

Support structure (<NUM>) further includes a pair of elongate applicator support members in the form of leaf springs (<NUM>) configured to contact and support an underside of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) when loaded into end effector closure device (<NUM>). Each leaf spring (<NUM>) extends distally from a proximal end of base (<NUM>) along a respective side of support structure (<NUM>) and includes an upwardly sloped proximal section (<NUM>), a generally horizontal medial section (<NUM>), and a downwardly sloped distal section (<NUM>) that terminates at a rounded free end configured to be spaced above bottom wall (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>). Each leaf spring (<NUM>) is configured to function as a resilient support member that resiliently deflects downwardly toward bottom wall (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>) when adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) is inserted distally into end effector closure device (<NUM>), and thus urges applicator device (<NUM>) upwardly toward lever (<NUM>) and away from bottom wall (<NUM>) to thereby position applicator device (<NUM>) appropriately so that end effector (<NUM>) may be received into the interior space of closure device (<NUM>) and positioned about platform (<NUM>), as described in greater detail below. While two applicator support members in the form of leaf springs (<NUM>) are shown in the present version of closure device (<NUM>), it will be appreciated that various other configurations and quantities of applicator support members may be provided in other versions of closure device (<NUM>).

Lever (<NUM>) of end effector closure device (<NUM>) includes lever body (<NUM>) having a free proximal end and a distal end from which a pair of pivot arms (<NUM>) and a pair of spring support arms (<NUM>) extend downwardly to provide lever (<NUM>) with a generally L-like shape. Each pivot arm (<NUM>) includes a pivot post (<NUM>) configured to be received by a respective pivot support structure (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>) to pivotably couple the distal end of lever (<NUM>) with the distal end of frame (<NUM>) such that lever (<NUM>) is pivotable relative to frame (<NUM>) between a raised open position (see <FIG> and <FIG>) and a lowered closed position (see <FIG>). Spring support arms (<NUM>) are positioned between pivot arms (<NUM>) and are configured to cooperate to support a resilient member in the form of a torsion spring (<NUM>) having a pair of spring legs (<NUM>) configured to contact lever (<NUM>) and frame (<NUM>) to bias lever (<NUM>) toward its raised open position.

Lever (<NUM>) further includes a camming protrusion (<NUM>) that extends downwardly from an underside of lever (<NUM>) and is tapered with a rounded free end. Camming protrusion (<NUM>) is configured to cammingly engage an exterior surface of a jaw (<NUM>, <NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>) to close end effector (<NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>) of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) when lever (<NUM>) is closed by an operator. Lever (<NUM>) further includes a pair of alignment tabs (<NUM>) that extend downwardly from the underside of lever (<NUM>) at a location distal to camming protrusion (<NUM>). As shown best in <FIG>, alignment tabs (<NUM>) are spaced apart from one another by a lateral width that is slightly greater than a maximum lateral width of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>). Accordingly, alignment tabs (<NUM>) are configured to receive a jaw (<NUM>, <NUM>) therebetween and thereby promote lateral alignment of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) with adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) and with end effector closure device (<NUM>) as lever (<NUM>) is actuated to its closed position to close end effector (<NUM>) onto adjunct applicator device (<NUM>). In some versions, the free end of each alignment tab (<NUM>) may be configured to cammingly engage a respective adjunct retaining arm (<NUM>) of applicator device (<NUM>) to facilitate release of a corresponding adjunct from platform (<NUM>). While lever (<NUM>) of the present version is shown having an end effector closure feature in the form of camming protrusion (<NUM>) and an end effector alignment feature in the form of alignment tabs (<NUM>), it will be appreciated that various other configurations and quantities of end effector closure and alignment features may be provided in other versions. Furthermore, while end effector closure device (<NUM>) of the present version is shown having a closure member in the form of pivotable lever (<NUM>), it will be appreciated that closure device (<NUM>) of other versions may have a closure member of various other types, such as a translatable closure member.

As shown in <FIG>, a distal end of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), preloaded with buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) or any other suitable adjunct type on platform (<NUM>), is aligned with proximal end opening (<NUM>) of end effector closure device (<NUM>), with lever (<NUM>) resiliently biased into its raised open position. Adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) is then inserted distally through proximal end opening (<NUM>) and into the interior space closure device (<NUM>) until the distal end of applicator device (<NUM>) abuts applicator stop members (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>). In doing so, applicator device (<NUM>) slides over leaf springs (<NUM>), thus causing leaf springs (<NUM>) to resiliently deflect downwardly toward bottom wall (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>) so that leaf springs (<NUM>) urge applicator device upwardly toward lever (<NUM>) and against the undersides of proximal and distal retaining arms (<NUM>) of frame (<NUM>). Applicator device (<NUM>) and closure device (<NUM>) thus define an adjunct applicator system now ready to receive end effector (<NUM>).

As shown in <FIG>, end effector (<NUM>) is positioned in an "anvil-up" rotational orientation relative to end effector closure device (<NUM>) such that anvil jaw (<NUM>) is oriented toward lever (<NUM>) and cartridge jaw (<NUM>) is oriented toward frame (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, closure device (<NUM>) is advanced proximally toward end effector (<NUM>), or alternatively end effector (<NUM>) is advanced distally toward closure device (<NUM>), so that end effector (<NUM>) in the open state is received into the interior space defined by frame (<NUM>) and lever (<NUM>) where anvil jaw (<NUM>) faces an upper side of platform (<NUM>) and cartridge jaw (<NUM>) faces an lower side of platform (<NUM>). Leaf springs (<NUM>) of support structure (<NUM>) are spaced apart laterally by a distance sufficient to receive cartridge jaw (<NUM>) therebetween without contact.

As shown in <FIG>, with end effector (<NUM>) positioned within end effector closure device (<NUM>), lever (<NUM>) is closed by an operator by depressing lever (<NUM>) at its proximal end so that camming protrusion (<NUM>) contacts an exterior surface of anvil jaw (<NUM>) to force anvil jaw (<NUM>) toward platform (<NUM>). Simultaneously, elongate rail (<NUM>) of support structure (<NUM>) contacts an exterior surface of cartridge jaw (<NUM>) to force cartridge jaw (<NUM>) toward platform (<NUM>). Additionally, during closure of lever (<NUM>) adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) may be permitted to move vertically within and relative to closure device (<NUM>) via resilient deflect of leaf springs (<NUM>) relative to frame (<NUM>) to facilitate closure of end effector (<NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>). When lever (<NUM>) has reached its fully closed position in which the underside of lever (<NUM>) abuts lever stop surfaces (<NUM>) of proximal retaining arms (<NUM>), end effector (<NUM>) is fully closed onto platform (<NUM>) of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) such that buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) are released from platform (<NUM>) and adhere to the stapling surfaces of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). In this manner, stop surfaces (<NUM>) may function as a force limiting feature configured to limit the force that closure device_ exerts on end effector jaws_ when lever_ is closed. Additionally, the geometries of camming protrusion _, elongate rail_, and or leaf springs_ may be tuned so that closure device_ exerts a predetermined closure force on end effector jaws_ when lever_ is fully closed.

Though not shown, proximal retaining arms (<NUM>) may further include a latch feature configured to engage with the proximal end of lever (<NUM>) in the fully closed position to provide audible and/or tactile feedback to the operator that the fully closed position has been achieved. Optionally, such latch feature may be configured to releasably maintain lever (<NUM>) in the closed position, for example to ensure complete adhesive of buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Once the operator is satisfied that buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) have been applied to end effector (<NUM>), the operator may release pressure from lever (<NUM>) to permit lever (<NUM>) to return to its raised open position via the resilient bias of torsion spring (<NUM>). End effector (<NUM>) is also resiliently biased toward its open position such that the re-opening of lever (<NUM>) simultaneously permits the re-opening of end effector (<NUM>). The combination of closure device (<NUM>) and applicator device (<NUM>) may then be withdrawn distally from end effector (<NUM>), leaving end effector (<NUM>) in an open state with buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) applied to its stapling surfaces.

<FIG> show an exemplary alternative method of using end effector closure device (<NUM>) and adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) with end effector (<NUM>) where end effector (<NUM>) is positioned in an "anvil-down" rotational orientation relative to closure device (<NUM>) such that anvil jaw (<NUM>) is oriented toward frame (<NUM>) and cartridge jaw (<NUM>) is oriented toward lever (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, end effector (<NUM>) is positioned within the interior space of closure device (<NUM>) so that platform (<NUM>) is positioned between the stapling surfaces of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, lever (<NUM>) is then closed to thereby close jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>) so that buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) adhere to the stapling surfaces. In this case, camming protrusion (<NUM>) of lever (<NUM>) forces cartridge jaw (<NUM>) toward the upper side of platform (<NUM>) and elongate rail (<NUM>) of support structure (<NUM>) forces anvil jaw (<NUM>) toward the lower side of platform (<NUM>). Accordingly, it will be appreciated that closure device (<NUM>) and applicator device (<NUM>) may be used effectively with end effector (<NUM>) in either an anvil-up or an anvil-down rotational orientation.

<FIG> shows another exemplary end effector closure device (<NUM>) that is operable to receive and support adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) and to close end effector (<NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>) of applicator device (<NUM>) to apply buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>), or adjuncts of another type, to the stapling surfaces of end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Closure device (<NUM>) of the present example has a scissor-like configuration that includes a first elongate member (<NUM>) and second elongate member (<NUM>) pivotably coupled together with a pivot pin (<NUM>). First elongate member (<NUM>) includes a first proximal handle feature (<NUM>) configured to receive a thumb of an operator, and a first distal jaw (<NUM>) having a housing (<NUM>) configured to receive and support at least a distal portion of adjunct applicator device (<NUM>). Second elongate member (<NUM>) includes a second proximal handle feature (<NUM>) configured to receive two or more fingers of an operator, and a second distal jaw (<NUM>) having a camming protrusion (<NUM>) similar to camming protrusion (<NUM>) described above.

As shown <FIG>, end effector (<NUM>) is positioned relative to end effector closure device (<NUM>) and adjunct applicator device (<NUM>) such that a jaw, shown as cartridge jaw (<NUM>) in the present example, is inserted in a space between applicator platform (<NUM>) and a bottom wall of housing (<NUM>) of closure device (<NUM>), thereby anchoring an underside of jaw (<NUM>) against housing (<NUM>). Second elongate member (<NUM>) is then pivotably actuated relative to first elongate member (<NUM>) to close jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) onto platform (<NUM>) to apply buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to the stapling surfaces of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>).

End effector closure device (<NUM>) may include one or more force limiting features configured to limit the closure force exerted by closure device (<NUM>) on end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) when closure device (<NUM>) is fully closed. By way of example only, one or more of elongate members (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured to deflect in response to a predetermined closure force.

<FIG> shows another exemplary end effector closure device (<NUM>) that is operable to close end effector (<NUM>) onto an adjunct applicator device (not shown), such as adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), to apply one or more adjuncts to the stapling surfaces of end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Closure device (<NUM>) has a semi-cylindrical body (<NUM>), a lower elongate member (<NUM>) that extends distally from a lower distal end of body (<NUM>), and an upper elongate member (<NUM>) that extends distally from an upper distal end of body (<NUM>) and is angled downwardly toward lower elongate member (<NUM>). The free distal ends of lower and upper elongate members (<NUM>, <NUM>) define a distal opening (<NUM>) that sized similar to a diameter of shaft (<NUM>) of stapler (<NUM>). In some versions, lower and upper elongate members (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be rigid. In other version, upper member (<NUM>) may be formed with a predetermined degree of flexibility.

As shown in <FIG>, end effector closure device (<NUM>) is snapped onto stapler shaft (<NUM>) at a location proximal to end effector (<NUM>) and is slidable along shaft (<NUM>) like a sleeve. End effector (<NUM>) is then positioned about an adjunct applicator device (not shown), such as adjunct applicator device (<NUM>). Closure device (<NUM>) is then translated distally over shaft (<NUM>) so that lower and upper elongate members (<NUM>, <NUM>) cooperate to force end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) closed onto the adjunct applicator device, thereby applying one or more adjuncts to the stapling surfaces of jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). This distal translation of closure device (<NUM>) may also function to temporarily immobilize articulation joint (<NUM>) of stapler (<NUM>). Following application of the adjuncts to end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>), closure device (<NUM>) may be translated proximally to enable jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) to reopen and to free articulation joint (<NUM>).

<FIG> show another exemplary end effector closure device (<NUM>) that is operable to close end effector (<NUM>) onto an adjunct applicator device (not shown), such as adjunct applicator device (<NUM>), to apply one or more adjuncts to the stapling surfaces of end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Closure device (<NUM>) is similar to closure device (<NUM>) in that closure device (<NUM>) has a semi-cylindrical body (<NUM>), a lower elongate member (<NUM>) that extends distally from a lower distal end of body (<NUM>), and an upper elongate member (<NUM>) that extends distally from an upper distal end of body (<NUM>). Unlike closure device (<NUM>), upper elongate member (<NUM>) of closure device (<NUM>) is pivotably coupled with body (<NUM>) and is actuatable between a raised position shown in <FIG> and a lowered position shown in <FIG> by a translatable actuator (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, actuator (<NUM>) in a proximal position enables upper elongate member (<NUM>) to pivot upwardly relative to body (<NUM>) and thereby accommodate an open state of end effector (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, actuator (<NUM>) is driven distally by an operator so that a distal extension (<NUM>) of actuator (<NUM>) advances distally into an interior of upper elongate member (<NUM>), thus forcing upper elongate member (<NUM>) to pivot downwardly against anvil jaw (<NUM>) and forcing end effector (<NUM>) to close onto the adjunct applicator device to apply adjuncts to jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Actuator (<NUM>) may then be returned to its proximal position to permit end effector (<NUM>) to reopen.

In some instances, it may be desirable for an operator to close end effector (<NUM>) onto an adjunct applicator device, such as applicator device (<NUM>), by directly grasping end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) with the operator's hand and without using an ancillary end effector closure device such as any of closure devices (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) described above. <FIG> show an exemplary closure indicator device (<NUM>) applied to an exterior surface of anvil jaw (<NUM>) of end effector (<NUM>) configured to assist an operator in such applications. Closure indicator device (<NUM>) is configured to emit feedback to the operator indicative of end effector (<NUM>) having been closed onto platform (<NUM>) of applicator device (<NUM>) to a predetermined closure state or with a predetermined threshold force sufficient to ensure application of buttress assemblies (<NUM>, <NUM>) to end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>). Such feedback may be in any suitable form, such as tactile, audible, and/or visible feedback, for example. In an exemplary version, closure indicator device (<NUM>) may be in the form of a dome switch configured to toggle and thereby provide a tactile indication to the operator in response to the operator exerting a predetermined threshold force on closure indicator device (<NUM>) while closing end effector jaws (<NUM>, <NUM>) onto applicator platform (<NUM>).

By way of example only, versions of the devices described herein may be sterilized before and/or after a procedure.

Claim 1:
An apparatus (<NUM>) comprising:
(a) a body (<NUM>) having an interior space sized and shaped to receive a surgical stapler end effector (<NUM>) in an open state in combination with an adjunct applicator (<NUM>) that includes an adjunct (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
(b) a closure member (<NUM>) movably coupled with the body (<NUM>), wherein the closure member (<NUM>) is actuatable to close the surgical stapler end effector (<NUM>) onto the adjunct applicator (<NUM>) so that the adjunct (<NUM>, <NUM>) is applied to a stapling surface of the surgical stapler end effector (<NUM>);
wherein the body (<NUM>) includes a bottom wall (<NUM>);
characterized in that the body (<NUM>) further includes a pair of support members (<NUM>) extending upwardly from the bottom wall (<NUM>), spaced apart from one another and configured to contact and support the underside of the adjunct applicator (<NUM>).