Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses a method whereby staple legs in alternate rows in the surgical stapler are made to interlock.

Embodiments are set out in the dependent claims.

<FIG> depict an example of a surgical stapling and severing instrument (<NUM>) that is sized for insertion, in a nonarticulated state as depicted in <FIG>, through a trocar cannula, thoracotomy, or other incision 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>). Shaft (<NUM>) distally terminates in an articulation joint (<NUM>), which is further coupled with an end effector (<NUM>). It should be understood that terms such as "proximal" and "distal" are used herein with reference to a clinician gripping handle portion (<NUM>) of instrument (<NUM>). Thus, end effector (<NUM>) is distal with respect to the more proximal handle portion (<NUM>).

Once articulation joint (<NUM>) and end effector (<NUM>) are inserted into the patient, 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). By way of example only, articulation joint (<NUM>) and/or articulation control (<NUM>) may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>; and/or <CIT>. Other suitable forms that articulation joint (<NUM>) and articulation control (<NUM>) may take will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

End effector (<NUM>) of the present example includes a lower jaw (<NUM>) and an upper jaw in the form of a pivotable anvil (<NUM>). By way of example only, lower jaw (<NUM>) may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>. Anvil (<NUM>) may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of at least some of the teachings of <CIT>. Other suitable forms that lower jaw (<NUM>) and anvil (<NUM>) may take will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

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 the 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 transmit longitudinal movement from closure tube (<NUM>) to closure ring (<NUM>).

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 tissue clamped in end effector (<NUM>), as will be described in greater detail below. Thereafter, triggers (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be released to release the tissue from end effector (<NUM>).

As best seen in <FIG>, firing beam (<NUM>) of the present example 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>). Thereby, firing beam (<NUM>) affirmatively spaces end effector (<NUM>) during firing. By way of example only, firing beam (<NUM>) and/or associated lockout features may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>. Other suitable forms that firing beam (<NUM>) may take will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

<FIG> shows firing beam (<NUM>) of the present example proximally positioned and anvil (<NUM>) pivoted to an open position, 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 this 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>) is formed through part of staple cartridge (<NUM>). Three rows of staple apertures (<NUM>) are formed through upper deck (<NUM>) on one side of vertical slot (<NUM>), with another set of three rows of staple apertures (<NUM>) being formed through upper deck (<NUM>) on the other side of vertical slot (<NUM>). Of course, any other suitable number of staple rows (e.g., two rows, four rows, any other number) may be provided. Referring back to <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>) when staple cartridge (<NUM>) is in a pre-fired (or "unspent") state. 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>). In particular, 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>).

By way of example only, staple cartridge (<NUM>) may be constructed and operable in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>. Other suitable forms that staple cartridge (<NUM>) may take will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein.

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 in engagement with anvil (<NUM>) by having upper pin (<NUM>) enter longitudinal anvil slot (<NUM>). A pusher block (<NUM>) (shown in <FIG>) located at the distal end of firing beam (<NUM>) is configured to engage wedge sled (<NUM>) such that wedge sled (<NUM>) is pushed distally by pusher block (<NUM>) 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>) that in turn drive staples (<NUM>) out through staple apertures (<NUM>) and into forming contact with staple forming pockets (<NUM>) (shown in <FIG>) on the inner surface of anvil (<NUM>). <FIG> depicts firing beam (<NUM>) fully distally translated after completing severing and stapling of tissue. It should be understood that staple forming pockets (<NUM>) are intentionally omitted from the view in <FIG>; but staple forming pockets (<NUM>) are shown in <FIG>. It should also be understood that anvil (<NUM>) is intentionally omitted from the view in <FIG>.

<FIG> shows end effector (<NUM>) having been actuated through a single stroke through layers (L<NUM>, L<NUM>) of tissue (T). As shown, cutting edge (<NUM>) (obscured in <FIG>) has cut through tissue (T), while staple drivers (<NUM>) have driven three alternating rows of staples (<NUM>) through the tissue (T) on each side of the cut line produced by cutting edge (<NUM>). Staples (<NUM>) are all oriented substantially parallel to the cut line in this example, though it should be understood that staples (<NUM>) may be positioned at any suitable orientations. In the present example, end effector (<NUM>) is withdrawn from the trocar or incision after the first stroke is complete, spent staple cartridge (<NUM>) is replaced with a new staple cartridge, and end effector (<NUM>) is then again inserted through the trocar or incision to reach the stapling site for further cutting and stapling. This process may be repeated until the desired number of cuts and staples (<NUM>) have been provided. Anvil (<NUM>) may need to be closed to facilitate insertion and withdrawal through the trocar; and anvil (<NUM>) may need to be opened to facilitate replacement of staple cartridge (<NUM>).

In some versions, instrument (<NUM>) provides motorized control of firing beam (<NUM>). By way of example only, such motorization may be provided in accordance with at least some of the teachings of <CIT>; and/or <CIT>. Other suitable components, features, and configurations for providing motorization of firing beam (<NUM>) will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the teachings herein. It should also be understood that some other versions may provide manual driving of firing beam (<NUM>), such that a motor may be omitted.

It may be desirable to modify staples (<NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>) and/or anvil (<NUM>) described above to increase staple density. As used herein, staple density is intended to refer to the number of staples per unit area of the staple cartridge. Higher staple density may provide increased seal strength against luminal leakage through the formed staple pattern. It is also beneficial to reduce time and associated costs of manufacturing, inspecting, and qualifying anvil (<NUM>) for use with instrument (<NUM>) of <FIG>. It may also be beneficial to reduce the dimensions of anvil (<NUM>) while still providing adequate stapling functionality so that instrument (<NUM>) may more easily access the desired anatomy of the patent.

As will be described below with reference to <FIG>, exemplary staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be used instead of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) of staple cartridge (<NUM>). Staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be incorporated into a stapling assembly, which may include features similar to staple cartridge (<NUM>) shown and described above with reference to <FIG>. Portions (e.g., legs) of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may overlap adjacent staples to form an overlapping staple pattern to increase robustness and strength of the staple line as a whole and which may allow for increased staple density. Staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be used in conjunction with first and second exemplary alternative anvils (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), and staples (<NUM>) may be used in conjunction with a third exemplary alternative anvil (<NUM>). Anvils (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may require reduced time and associated costs of manufacturing, inspecting, and qualifying anvils (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).

<FIG> show schematic views of first exemplary alternative staples, shown as first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>), which may be incorporated into the instrument (<NUM>) of <FIG>. While first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) are shown, the principles pertaining to first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) also apply to additional staples (e.g., a third staple, a fourth staple, a fifth staple, and a sixth staple, etc.).

First staple (<NUM>) may exit a first staple aperture (<NUM>) of a deck surface (<NUM>), which may be generally similar to staple aperture (<NUM>) of upper deck (<NUM>) shown in <FIG>. Similarly, second staple (<NUM>) may exit a second staple aperture (<NUM>) of deck surface (<NUM>) similar to first staple aperture (<NUM>). First and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) are configured to transition from a non-deformed state shown in <FIG> and <FIG> to a deformed state shown in <FIG> and <FIG> using an anvil (not shown but which may be similar to anvil (<NUM>)) when end effector (<NUM>) is in the closed configuration of <FIG>. First staple (<NUM>) is separate and discrete from second staple (<NUM>). First staple (<NUM>) includes a first crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of first crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of first crown (<NUM>) that is disposed opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>). First and second terminal ends (<NUM>, <NUM>) are shown as being sharp and pointed. As shown, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) are generally straight in the non-deformed state. While first and second angles (β1, β2) of first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) relative to first crown (<NUM>) are shown as being generally equal, first and second angles (β1, β2) may be different.

Similar to first staple (<NUM>), second staple (<NUM>) includes a second crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, which are shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of second crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of second crown (<NUM>) that is opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>). First and second terminal ends (<NUM>, <NUM>) are shown as being sharp and pointed. As shown, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) are generally straight in the non-deformed state.

When first staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state of <FIG> and <FIG> to the deformed state of <FIG> and <FIG>, second leg (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over second crown (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>). Additionally, when first staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over a crown of another staple (not shown but which may be similar to first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>)) to form an overlapping staple pattern. Similar to first staple (<NUM>), when second staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over first crown (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>). Second leg (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over third crown of a third staple (not shown) to form an overlapping staple pattern between second staple (<NUM>) and the third staple (not shown) when transitioned to the deformed state. The overlap of first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) may increase robustness and strength of the staple line as a whole and may allow for increased staple density.

In the deformed state shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, first legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be bent arcuately. In other words, in the deformed state, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) each form a semicircle that terminates at first and second distances (D1, D2) away from an upper surface of first and second crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>). As shown in the deformed state of <FIG>, first legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) of first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) extend generally parallel to one another. Similarly, second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) of first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) extend generally parallel to one another and approximately <NUM> degrees opposite first legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). While first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) are not shown as being in direct contact with each other, first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) appear interleaved together. While first and second distances (D1, D2) are shown as being equal, first and second distances (D1, D2) may be different. Staple drivers (not shown), but which may be similar to staple drivers (<NUM>), are configured to contact first and second crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>) and drive first and second crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>) toward the anvil (e.g., anvil (<NUM>)). First and second crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>) may extend parallel to one another in each of the non-deformed and deformed states. Each of first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured to contact a staple forming pocket of an anvil (e.g., anvils (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) described below) to transition from the non-deformed state to the deformed state.

<FIG> show schematic views of second exemplary alternative staples, shown as first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), which may be incorporated into the instrument of <FIG>. While first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are shown, the principles also apply to additional staples (e.g., a fifth staple, a sixth staple, a seventh staple, an eighth staple, a ninth staple, etc.). First, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are configured to transition from a non-deformed state shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> to a deformed state shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> using anvil (<NUM>). First, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are separate and discrete from one another.

First staple (<NUM>) includes a first crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of first crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of first crown (<NUM>) that is disposed opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>). Similar to first staple (<NUM>), second staple (<NUM>) includes a second crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, which are shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of second crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of second crown (<NUM>) that is opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>). Similar to first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>), third staple (<NUM>) includes a third crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, which are shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of third crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of third crown (<NUM>) that is opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>).

Similar to first, second, and third staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), fourth staple (<NUM>) includes a fourth crown (<NUM>) and a plurality of legs, which are shown as first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) extends from a first end (<NUM>) of fourth crown (<NUM>). Similarly, second leg (<NUM>) extends from a second end (<NUM>) of fourth crown (<NUM>) that is opposite first end (<NUM>). First leg (<NUM>) includes a first terminal end (<NUM>), and second leg (<NUM>) includes a second terminal end (<NUM>). First and second terminal ends (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are shown as being sharp and pointed. As shown in the non-deformed state, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are generally straight. In the non-deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) is spaced a distance from first crown (<NUM>), While first angle (β3) of first leg (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) is shown as being generally equal to second angle (β4) of second leg (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), first and second angles (β3, β4) may be different. Each of first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be configured to contact a staple forming pocket (<NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>) to transition from the non-deformed state to the deformed state. Unlike anvil (<NUM>) where each staple (<NUM>) has a corresponding staple forming pocket (<NUM>), second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), anvil (<NUM>) may be configured to contact the same staple forming pocket (<NUM>).

When first staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, second leg (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over second crown (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>). Additionally, when first staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over a crown of another staple (not shown), but which may be similar to first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern. Similar to first staple (<NUM>), when second staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over first crown (<NUM>) of first staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>). Second leg (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over third crown (<NUM>) of third staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between second and third staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) when transitioned to the deformed state. In the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) is configured to occupy a space between first crown (<NUM>) and anvil (<NUM>).

Similar to second staple (<NUM>), when third staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of third staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over second crown (<NUM>) of second staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between second and third staples (<NUM>, <NUM>). Second leg (<NUM>) of third staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over fourth crown (<NUM>) of fourth staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between third and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) when transitioned to the deformed state. Similar to third staple (<NUM>), when fourth staple (<NUM>) is transitioned from the non-deformed state to the deformed state, first leg (<NUM>) of fourth staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over third crown (<NUM>) of third staple (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between third and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>).

In the deformed state shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, first leg (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and second leg (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may be bent. In other words, in the deformed state, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) terminate at third and fourth distances (D3, D4) away from an upper surface of first and second crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>). While third and fourth distances (D3, D4) are shown in <FIG> as being equal, third and fourth distances (D3, D4) may be different. As shown in the deformed state of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, first legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extend generally parallel to one another. Similarly, second leg (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extend generally parallel to one another and approximately <NUM> degrees opposite first legs (<NUM>, <NUM>). As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) each include first and second bent portions that extend at an angle relative to each other. While first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are not shown as being in direct contact with each other, first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) appear interleaved together. Staple drivers (not shown), but which may be similar to staple drivers (<NUM>), are configured to contact first, second, third, and fourth crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may and drive first, second, third, and fourth crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may toward the anvil (<NUM>). First, second, third, and fourth crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may extend parallel to one another in each of the non-deformed and deformed states.

<FIG> show first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of <FIG> as well as fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). This illustrates this overlapping pattern may continue with additional staples where legs of adjacent staples are disposed over crowns. The overlap of first, second, third, and fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may increase robustness and strength of the staple line as a whole (formed by first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and may allow for increased staple density.

<FIG> show perspective and top views of exemplary staples (<NUM>) that are different than first, second, third, and fourth staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) described above. Staples (<NUM>) each include a crown (<NUM>) with first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending from crown (<NUM>). As shown in <FIG>, in the deformed state, staples (<NUM>) are separated from each another and generally form an S shape.

<FIG> show a second exemplary alternative anvil (<NUM>) that may be incorporated into the instrument (<NUM>) of <FIG>. Anvil (<NUM>) includes a body (<NUM>), which is shown as being integrally formed together as a unitary piece. Body (<NUM>) includes a distal connecting portion (<NUM>), a first lateral portion (<NUM>), and a second lateral portion (<NUM>). First and second lateral portions (<NUM>, <NUM>) are separated by a longitudinal slot (<NUM>) that is configured to receive a knife (not shown), but which may be similar to distally presented cutting edge (<NUM>) of firing beam (<NUM>) described above. Anvil (<NUM>) is shown as being symmetric about longitudinal slot (<NUM>).

Staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are disposed at an angle (Θ1) relative to longitudinal axis (LA). Angle (Θ1) may vary. Staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) slightly angled relative to axis of longitudinal slot (<NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) includes distal, central, and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) formed in an upper surface (<NUM>) of body (<NUM>). Distal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a distal wall (<NUM>), first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>), and an outer wall (<NUM>). Central staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) and inner and outer walls (<NUM>, <NUM>). Proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>), an inner wall (<NUM>), and open into a proximal end (<NUM>) of body (<NUM>). First and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of distal, central, and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extend at angle (Θ1) relative to longitudinal axis (LA). Inner walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) and outer wall (<NUM>) extend parallel to longitudinal axis (LA). First and second outer lateral walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) include tapered outer edges (<NUM>, <NUM>). Distal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>). Similarly, central staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>) and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>). Higher slope regions (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) have a slope that is greater than lower slope regions (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).

For anvil (<NUM>), multiple staples (e.g., staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>)) may be formed in each staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). As a result, there may not a <NUM>:<NUM> correlation between staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). In other words, the number of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may exceed the number of staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) may reduce cost of construction, as staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) including staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) that include continuous channels are more inexpensive to manufacture was well as to inspect and qualify. Anvil (<NUM>) may allow for increased staple leg density along length (LE1) of anvil (<NUM>). Higher staple density may provide increased seal strength against luminal leakage. Anvil (<NUM>) may decrease the width (W1) of anvil (<NUM>) compared to other layouts of staple forming pockets. Anvil (<NUM>) may also reduce the risk associated tipping of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) when moving to the deformed state while still allowing for crossover of adjacent legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) relative to crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).

<FIG> show a third exemplary alternative anvil (<NUM>) that may be incorporated into the instrument (<NUM>) of <FIG>. Anvil (<NUM>) is similar to anvil (<NUM>) described above. Anvil (<NUM>) includes a body (<NUM>). Body (<NUM>) includes a distal connecting portion (<NUM>), a first lateral portion (<NUM>), and a second lateral portion (<NUM>). First and second lateral portions (<NUM>, <NUM>) are separated by a longitudinal slot (<NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) is shown as being symmetric about longitudinal slot (<NUM>).

Staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) are disposed at an angle (Θ2) relative to longitudinal axis (LA). Angle (Θ2) may vary. Staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) slightly angled relative to axis of longitudinal slot (<NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) includes distal, central, and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) formed in an upper surface (<NUM>) of body (<NUM>). Distal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a distal wall (<NUM>) and first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>). Central staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) and inner walls (<NUM>). Proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include first and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>), an inner wall (<NUM>), and open into a proximal end (<NUM>) of body (<NUM>). First and second outer lateral walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) include tapered outer edges (<NUM>, <NUM>). Unlike outer walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) of distal and central staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>) described above with reference to <FIG>, staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>) open directly into first and second outer lateral walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) and do not include outer walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) of distal and central staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>).

First and second angled walls (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of distal, central, and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) extend at angle (Θ2) relative to longitudinal axis (LA). Inner walls (<NUM>, <NUM>) and outer wall (<NUM>) extend parallel to longitudinal axis (LA). Distal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>). Similarly, central staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>) and proximal staple forming pockets (<NUM>) include a higher slope region (<NUM>) and a lower slope region (<NUM>). For anvil (<NUM>), multiple staples (e.g., staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>)) may be formed in each staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). As a result, there may not a <NUM>:<NUM> correlation between staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). In other words, the number of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) may exceed the number of staple forming pockets (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) may reduce cost of construction as well as be more easily inspected and qualified. Anvil (<NUM>) may allow for increased staple leg density along length (LE2) of anvil (<NUM>). Higher staple density may provide increased seal strength against luminal leakage. Anvil (<NUM>) may decrease the width (W2) of anvil (<NUM>) compared to other layouts of staple forming pockets. Anvil (<NUM>) may also reduce the risk associated tipping of staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) when moving to the deformed state while still allowing for crossover of adjacent legs (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) relative to crowns (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>).

<FIG> depicts an exemplary circular surgical stapler (<NUM>) that may be used to provide an end-to-end, side-to-side, or end-to-side anastomosis between two sections of an anatomical lumen such as a portion of a patient's digestive tract. Circular surgical stapler (<NUM>) of this example comprises a handle assembly (<NUM>), a shaft assembly (<NUM>), a stapling head assembly (<NUM>), and an anvil assembly (<NUM>). Handle assembly (<NUM>) comprises a casing (<NUM>) defining an obliquely oriented pistol grip (<NUM>). In some versions, pistol grip (<NUM>) is perpendicularly oriented. In some other versions, pistol grip (<NUM>) is omitted. Handle assembly (<NUM>) further includes a user feedback feature (<NUM>) that permits viewing of a movable indicator needle (not shown). Circular surgical stapler (<NUM>) includes a battery pack (<NUM>). Battery pack (<NUM>) is operable to provide electrical power to a motor (not shown). Shaft assembly (<NUM>) extends distally from handle assembly (<NUM>) and includes a preformed bend, which may facilitate positioning of stapling head assembly (<NUM>) within a patient's colon.

Stapling head assembly (<NUM>) is located at the distal end of shaft assembly (<NUM>). As shown, anvil assembly (<NUM>) is configured to removably couple with shaft assembly (<NUM>), adjacent to stapling head assembly (<NUM>). Anvil assembly (<NUM>) and stapling head assembly (<NUM>) are configured to cooperate to manipulate tissue in three ways, including clamping the tissue, cutting the tissue, and stapling the tissue. A knob (<NUM>) at the proximal end of handle assembly (<NUM>) is rotatable relative to casing (<NUM>) to provide precise clamping of the tissue between anvil (<NUM>) and stapling head assembly (<NUM>). When a safety trigger (<NUM>) of handle assembly (<NUM>) is pivoted away from a firing trigger (<NUM>) of handle assembly (<NUM>), firing trigger (<NUM>) may be actuated to provide cutting and stapling of the tissue. Stapling head assembly (<NUM>) of the present example is coupled to a distal end of shaft assembly (<NUM>) and comprises a body member (<NUM>) and a slidable staple driver member (not shown). Body member (<NUM>) includes a distally extending cylindraceous inner core member (not shown). Body member (<NUM>) is fixedly secured to an outer sheath (<NUM>) of shaft assembly (<NUM>). A deck member (<NUM>) is fixedly secured to body member (<NUM>), and includes a distally presented deck surface (not shown) defining two concentric annular arrays of staple openings. Anvil assembly (<NUM>) includes a head (<NUM>) and a shank (<NUM>).

<FIG> show a fourth exemplary alternative anvil (<NUM>) that may be incorporated into head (<NUM>) of anvil assembly (<NUM>) of circular surgical stapler (<NUM>) shown in <FIG>. Anvil (<NUM>) may be used in conjunction with third exemplary alternative staples (<NUM>) of <FIG> described below. The principles of anvil (<NUM>) and staples (<NUM>) may be provided in accordance with one or more teachings of <CIT>. The principles of anvil (<NUM>) and staples (<NUM>) may be provided in accordance with one or more teachings of <CIT>; <CIT>; and/or <CIT>.

Anvil (<NUM>) is shown as being annular. Anvil (<NUM>) includes at least one annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) formed in an upper surface (<NUM>) of anvil (<NUM>). While only one annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) is shown, additional staple forming pockets are also envisioned, which may or may not be annular. For example, annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) may be combined with another annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) and/or another non-annular staple forming pocket. While annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) is shown as being U-shaped in sectional view of <FIG>, annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) may have a variety of suitable shapes. Similar to anvils (<NUM>, <NUM>), annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) is configured to interact with multiple staples (e.g., staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>)). In other words, for anvil (<NUM>), multiple staples (e.g., staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>)) may be formed using annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>). Anvil (<NUM>) may reduce cost of construction, as annular staple forming pocket (<NUM>) is more cost effective to produce, to inspect, and to qualify than other staple forming pockets having a <NUM>:<NUM> correlation with respective staples. Anvil (<NUM>) may allow for increased staple leg density. Higher staple density may provide increased seal strength against luminal leakage.

<FIG> shows third exemplary alternative staples (<NUM>) in a deformed state, where the staples (<NUM>) may be incorporated into stapling head assembly (<NUM>) of circular surgical stapler (<NUM>) of <FIG>. Staples (<NUM>) may be similar to staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) described above with reference to <FIG>. Adjacent staples (<NUM>) overlap in a similar manner to staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) described above in detail. However, unlike staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), staples (<NUM>) are arranged in an annular arrangement (<NUM>), also referred to as an annular array, for use with stapling head assembly (<NUM>) of circular surgical stapler (<NUM>). Staples (<NUM>) each include a crown (<NUM>) with first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) extending from crown (<NUM>) similar to staples (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>). Staples (<NUM>) may be loaded into a stapling assembly in a manner allowing for first and second legs (<NUM>, <NUM>) to be oriented obliquely to cross over crowns (<NUM>) of adjacent staples (<NUM>). Staples (<NUM>) may be arranged to define a center line (<NUM>). In the deformed state, first legs (<NUM>) of staples (<NUM>) may define an innermost annular point (<NUM>) and second legs (<NUM>) may define an outermost annular point (<NUM>).

Any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described herein may be combined with any one or more of the teachings, expressions, embodiments, examples, etc. described in U. Ref. END9370USNP1], entitled "Staple and Staple-Forming Pocket Arrangements for Surgical Staplers," filed on even date herewith.

The teachings of this application may be applied to anvils of all types of surgical staplers, including endocutters, linear surgical staplers, circular surgical staplers, right angle surgical staplers, and curved surgical staplers, for example. For example, the teachings of this application may be combined with various exemplary linear surgical staplers, such that those shown and described in <CIT>. The teachings of this application may be combined with various exemplary circular surgical staplers, such that those shown and described in <CIT>. The teachings of this application may be combined with various exemplary right angle surgical staplers, such that those shown and described in <CIT>. The teachings of this application may be combined with various exemplary curved surgical staplers, such that those shown and described in <CIT>.

Versions described above may be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. Reconditioning may include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, some versions of the systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, some versions of the systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by an operator immediately prior to a procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof, are all within the scope of the present application.

In one sterilization technique, the systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and system, instrument, and/or portion thereof may then be placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation may kill bacteria on the system, instrument, and/or portion thereof and in the container. The sterilized systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may then be stored in the sterile container for later use. Systems, instruments, and/or portions thereof may also be sterilized using any other technique known in the art, including but not limited to beta or gamma radiation, ethylene oxide, or steam.

Claim 1:
A surgical stapling instrument, comprising:
(a) an anvil (<NUM>) that includes a staple forming pocket (<NUM>); and
(b) a stapling assembly comprising:
(i) a first staple (<NUM>) comprising:
(A) a first crown (<NUM>),
(B) a first leg (<NUM>) extending from the first crown, and
(C) a second leg (<NUM>) extending from the first crown, and
(ii) a second staple (<NUM>), the second staple (<NUM>) comprising:
(A) a second crown (<NUM>), and
(B) a first leg (<NUM>) extending at a first angle relative to
the second crown in a non-deformed state,
wherein the first leg of the second staple (<NUM>) is configured to extend over the first crown (<NUM>) to form an overlapping staple pattern between the first and second staples when the first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) are in a deformed state,
characterized in that the staple pocket (<NUM>) of the anvil (<NUM>) is configured to deform the first and second staples (<NUM>, <NUM>) from the non-deformed state to the deformed state.