Patent Description:
The present disclosure relates generally to powered surgical devices. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to adapter and extension assemblies for selectively connecting end effectors to the actuation units of the powered surgical devices.

Powered devices for use in surgical procedures are known. To permit reuse of the handle assemblies of these powered surgical devices and so that the handle assembly may be used with a variety of end effectors, adapter assemblies and extension assemblies have been developed for selective attachment to the handle assemblies and to a variety of end effectors. Following use, the adapter and/or extension assemblies may be disposed of along with the end effector. In some instances, the adapter assemblies and extension assemblies may be sterilized for reuse.

<CIT> discloses an adapter assembly that connects a drive assembly to an end effector of a surgical stapling instrument. The adaptor enables via gear systems the actuation of different end effector functionalities.

<CIT> discloses a surgical device being configured for selective connection with an adapter assembly, wherein the adapter assembly is configured for selective connection with an end effector or single use loading unit.

An assembly for operably connecting an end effector to an electrosurgical instrument is provided as defined in claim <NUM> annexed hereto. The assembly includes an adapter assembly and an extension assembly. The adapter assembly includes a connector assembly, a drive transfer assembly operably received through the connector assembly and including first, second, and third rotatable shafts, a first pusher assembly operably connected to the first rotatable shaft for converting rotational motion from the first rotatable shaft to longitudinal movement to perform a first function, a second pusher assembly operably connected to the second rotatable shaft for converting rotational motion from the second rotatable shaft to longitudinal movement to perform a second function, and a drive member operably connected to the third rotatable shaft for transferring rotational motion from the third rotatable shaft to perform a third function. The drive transfer assembly and the first and second pusher assemblies may be operably received within a single outer tube. The extension is operably connected to a distal end of the adapter assembly and includes at least one flexible band assembly operably connected to one of the first and second pusher assemblies.

The first pusher assembly includes a first planetary gear assembly and the second pusher assembly includes a second planetary gear assembly. Each of the first and second planetary gear assemblies may include a first planetary gear system and a second planetary gear system. Each of the first and second planetary gear systems may be configured to reduce a speed of rotation of the first and second rotatable shafts. The first pusher assembly includes a first drive screw operably connected to the first planetary gear assembly and the second pusher assembly includes a second drive screw operably connected to the second planetary gear assembly. The first pusher assembly may include a first pusher member operably received about the first drive screw and the second pusher assembly may include a second pusher member operably received about the second screw member. Rotation of the first drive screw may cause longitudinal movement of the first pusher member and rotation of the second drive screw may cause longitudinal movement of the second pusher member. The adapter assembly may further include a base and a support structure rotatable relative to the base along a longitudinal axis, the connector assembly and the drive transfer assembly being disposed with in the base and the first and second pusher assemblies being disposed within the support structure. The connection assembly may be configured for operable connection to an electrosurgical instrument.

In some embodiments, the extension assembly includes a second flexible band assembly operably connected to the other of the first and second pusher assemblies. The extension assembly may include a trocar assembly operably connected to the drive member. The trocar assembly may convert rotational motion from the drive member into linear motion. The extension assembly may include a link assembly operably connecting the trocar assembly to the drive member. The link assembly may include a first drive shaft pivotally connected to a second drive shaft and a coupling member pivotally connected to the second drive shaft.

An extension assembly for operably connecting an end effector to an electrosurgical instrument is also provided. The extension assembly includes an outer sleeve, a frame assembly received within the outer sleeve, an inner flexible band assembly slidably disposed within the frame assembly for performing a first function, an outer flexible band assembly slidably disposed within the frame assembly and relative to the inner flexible band assembly for performing a second function, and a trocar assembly disposed within the frame assembly and including a trocar member for performing a third function. The inner flexible band assembly may include a proximal end configured for connection to a first linear drive member and the outer flexible band assembly may include a proximal end configured for connection to a second linear drive member. A proximal end of the trocar assembly may be configured for connection to a rotatable drive shaft. Rotation of the rotatable drive shaft may cause linear advancement of the trocar member. The extension assembly may further include a connection assembly configured for operable connection with an end effector. A distal end of the inner flexible band assembly may include a flange configured for operable connection with an end effector and a distal end of the outer flexible band assembly includes a flange configured for operable connection with an end effector. The trocar member may be configured for operably connection with an anvil assembly. The extension assembly may further include a link assembly for operable connection with the trocar assembly, the link assembly including a first shaft pivotally secured to a second shaft and a coupling member.

Also disclosed herein but falling outside the scope of the invention is a connection assembly for securing a first tubular member to a second tubular member. The connection assembly includes a tubular base having a flange and an annular rim. The connection assembly further includes a tubular extension having first and second sections and an outer sleeve slidably disposed about the first and second sections. The first and second sections may define an annular groove positioned to receive the annular rim of the tubular base when the first and second sections are received about the flange. The tubular base may be secured to the first tubular member and the tubular extension may be secured to the second tubular member. The tubular base may be formed on an end of the first tubular member and the tubular extension is formed on an end of the second tubular member.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

Embodiments of the presently disclosed adapter assemblies and extension assemblies for surgical devices and/or handle assemblies are described in detail with reference to the drawings, in which like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding elements in each of the several views. As used herein the term "distal" refers to that portion of the adapter assembly or surgical device, or component thereof, farther from the user, while the term "proximal" refers to that portion of the adapter assembly or surgical device, or component thereof, closer to the user.

With reference to <FIG>, an adapter assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown generally as adapter assembly <NUM>, and an extension assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, shown generally as extension assembly <NUM>, are configured for selective connection to a powered hand held electromechanical instrument shown, generally as surgical device <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG> , surgical device <NUM> is configured for selective connection with adapter assembly <NUM>, and, in turn, adapter assembly <NUM> is configured for selective connection with an extension assembly <NUM>. Extension assembly <NUM> is configured for selective connection with a tool assembly or end effector, e.g. tool assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ), including a loading unit, e.g. loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ), and an anvil assembly, e.g., anvil assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ), for applying a circular array of staples (not shown) to tissue (not shown).

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, surgical device <NUM> includes a handle housing <NUM> having a lower housing portion <NUM>, an intermediate housing portion <NUM> extending from and/or supported on lower housing portion <NUM>, and an upper housing portion <NUM> extending from and/or supported on intermediate housing portion <NUM>. A distal half-section of upper housing portion <NUM> defines a nose or connecting portion 18a configured to accept a corresponding drive coupling assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM>. For a detailed description of the structure and function of an exemplary electromechanical instrument, please refer to commonly owned <CIT>("the '<NUM> application").

Adapter assembly <NUM> will now be described with reference to <FIG>. Referring initially to <FIG> , adapter assembly <NUM> includes a proximal end <NUM> configured for operable connection to connecting portion 18a (<FIG> ) of surgical device <NUM> (<FIG> ) and a distal end <NUM> configured for operable connection to extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ).

Turning to <FIG>, from proximal end <NUM> to distal end <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> includes a drive coupling assembly <NUM>, a drive transfer assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive coupling assembly <NUM>, a first pusher assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive transfer assembly <NUM>, and a second pusher assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive transfer assembly <NUM>. Each of drive transfer assembly <NUM>, first pusher assembly <NUM> and second pusher assembly <NUM> are operably maintained within an outer sleeve <NUM> ( <FIG> ). As will be described in further detail below, a shaft <NUM> (<FIG> ) extends longitudinally through adapter assembly <NUM> and is operably connected to drive transfer assembly <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, drive coupling assembly <NUM> has a cylindrical profile and is configured to selectively secure adapter assembly <NUM> to surgical device <NUM> ( <FIG> ). Drive coupling assembly <NUM> includes a connector housing <NUM> and a connector extension <NUM> fixedly connected to connector housing <NUM> by a mounting plate <NUM>. Connector housing <NUM> and connector extension <NUM> operate to rotatably support a first rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM>, a second rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM>, and a third rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM>. Connector housing <NUM> and connector extension <NUM> of drive coupling assembly <NUM> also rotatably supports first, second, and third connector sleeves <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. Each of connector sleeves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is configured to mate with respective first, second, and third drive connectors (not shown) of surgical device <NUM> (<FIG> ). Each connector sleeve <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> is further configured to mate with a proximal end 116a, 118a, 120a of respective first, second and third proximal drive shafts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

The drive coupling assembly <NUM> also includes first, second and third biasing members 122a, 124a and 126a disposed distally of respective first, second and third connector sleeves <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Each of biasing ember 122a, 124a and 126a is disposed about respective first, second, and third rotatable proximal drive shafts <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> to help maintain connector sleeves <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> engaged with the distal end of respective drive rotatable drive connectors (not shown) of surgical device <NUM> when adapter assembly <NUM> is connect to surgical device <NUM>. In particular, first, second and third biasing members 122a, 124a and 126a function to bias respective connector sleeves <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> in a proximal direction.

For a detailed description of an exemplary drive coupling assembly, please refer to the '<NUM> application.

With reference to <FIG>, drive transfer assembly <NUM> has a cylindrical profile and operably connects distal ends of first, second and third rotatable proximal drive shafts <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> to shaft <NUM>, first pusher assembly <NUM>, and second pusher assembly <NUM>, respectively. Drive transfer assembly <NUM> includes a support plate <NUM> ( <FIG>) secured to a proximal end of connector housing <NUM> and a drive transfer housing <NUM> positioned adjacent support plate <NUM>. Support plate <NUM> and housing <NUM> operate to rotatably support a first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM>, a second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> and a drive member <NUM>.

First and second rotatable distal drive shafts <NUM> and <NUM> are each operably connected to respective first and second rotatable proximal drive shafts <NUM> and <NUM> of drive coupling assembly <NUM> by a pair of gears. In particular, distal ends of each of first and second rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM> and <NUM> include a geared portion 142a and 144a, respectively, which engages a proximal drive gear 142b and 144b on a proximal end of respective first and second distal drive shafts <NUM> and <NUM>. As shown, each of respective paired geared portion and proximal drive gear 142a, 142b and 144a, 144b are the same size to provide a <NUM>:<NUM> gear ratio between the respective rotatable proximal and distal drive shafts. In this manner, respective rotatable proximal and distal drive shafts rotate at the same speed. However, it is envisioned that either or both of the paired geared portions and proximal drive gears may be of different sizes to alter the gear ratio between the rotatable proximal and distal drive shafts.

A distal end of third proximal drive shaft <NUM> of drive coupling assembly <NUM> includes a geared portion 146a that engages a geared portion 146b formed on a proximal end of drive member <NUM> of drive transfer assembly <NUM>. The size of geared portion 146a on third proximal drive shaft <NUM> and geared portion 146b on drive member <NUM> are the same size to provide a <NUM>:<NUM> gear ratio between third proximal drive shaft <NUM> and drive member <NUM>. In this manner, third proximal drive shaft <NUM> and drive member <NUM> rotate at the same speed. However, it is envisioned that either or both of geared portions 146a, 146b may be of different sizes to alter the gear ratio between third proximal drive shaft <NUM> and drive member <NUM>. A distal end of drive member <NUM> defines a socket <NUM> that receives a proximal end 108a of shaft <NUM>. Alternatively, socket <NUM> may be configured to operably engage a proximal end 208a of a drive shaft (<FIG> ) of an extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG>).

Drive transfer assembly <NUM> also includes a drive connector <NUM> (<FIG>) operably connecting first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> to first pusher assembly <NUM> and a tubular connector <NUM> operably connecting second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> to second pusher assembly <NUM>. In particular, a distal end of first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> includes a geared portion 152a that engages a geared portion 152b of drive connector <NUM>. A distal end of second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> includes a geared portion 154a that engages a drive gear 154b secured to a distal end of tubular connector <NUM>.

As shown, geared portion 152a of first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> is smaller than geared portion 152b of drive connector <NUM> to provide a gear ratio of greater than <NUM>:<NUM> between first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> and drive connector <NUM>. In this manner, drive connector <NUM> rotates at a slower speed than first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM>. Similarly, geared portion 154a of second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> is smaller than drive gear 154b on tubular connector <NUM> to provide a gear ratio of greater than <NUM>:<NUM> between second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> and drive connector <NUM>. In this manner, tubular connector <NUM> rotates at a slower speed than second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM>. However, it is envisioned that each of paired geared portion 152a and geared portion 152b, and geared portion 154a and drive gear 154b may be the same size to provide a gear ratio of <NUM>:<NUM> between respective first rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> and drive connector <NUM> and between second rotatable distal drive shaft <NUM> and tubular connector <NUM>.

With particular reference to <FIG> , first pusher assembly <NUM> includes proximal and distal housing sections <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ), a planetary gear assembly <NUM> operably mounted within proximal housing section <NUM>, a screw member <NUM> (<FIG>) operably connected to planetary gear assembly <NUM> and rotatably supported within distal housing section <NUM>, and a pusher member <NUM> (<FIG>) operably connected screw member <NUM> and slidably disposed within distal housing section <NUM>. Proximal housing section <NUM> includes a pair of longitudinal flanges 162a (<FIG> ; only one shown) and distal housing section <NUM> includes a pair of longitudinally flattened portions 164a. Each of the flanges 162a and the flattened portions 164a of respective proximal and distal housing sections <NUM>, <NUM> engage an inner surface of sleeve <NUM> to prevent rotation of respective proximal housing section <NUM> and distal housing section <NUM> relative to sleeve <NUM> during operation of surgical device <NUM>. Planetary gear assembly <NUM> includes first and second planetary gear systems 166a, 166b (<FIG> ). First planetary gear system 166a includes a central drive gear 172a mounted on a distal end of drive connector <NUM> of drive transfer assembly <NUM> and a plurality of planetary gears 174a rotatably mounted to a rotatable support ring <NUM>.

Each planetary gear 174a engages central drive gear 172a and a toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM>. As central drive gear 172a rotates in a first direction, i.e., clockwise, each planetary gear 174a rotates in a second direction, i.e., counterclockwise. As each planetary gear 174a rotates in the second direction, engagement of planetary gears 174a with toothed inner surface <NUM> of distal housing section <NUM> causes rotatable support ring <NUM> to rotate in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of central drive gear 172a in the second direction causes rotation of each planetary gear 174a in the first direction thereby causing rotation of rotatable support ring <NUM> in the second direction. The configuration of first planetary gear system 166a provides a reduction in the gear ratio. In this manner, the speed of rotation of rotatable support ring <NUM> is less than the speed of rotation of central drive gear 172a.

Second planetary gear system 166b includes a central drive gear 172b securely affixed to rotatable support ring <NUM> and a plurality of planetary gears 174b rotatably mounted to a proximal end surface 168a of screw member <NUM>. Each planetary gear 174b engages central drive gear 172b and toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM>. As rotatable support ring <NUM> of first planetary gear system 166a rotates in the first direction thereby causing central drive gear 172b to also rotate in the first direction, each planetary gear 174b rotates in the second direction. As each planetary gear 174b rotates in the second direction, engagement of planetary gears 174b with toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM> causes screw member <NUM> to rotate in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of central drive gear 172b in the second direction causes rotation of each planetary gear 174b in the first direction, thereby causing screw member <NUM> to rotate in the second direction. The configuration of second planetary gear system 166b provides a reduction in the gear ratio. In this manner, the speed of rotation of screw member <NUM> is less than the speed of rotation of central drive gear 172b. First and second planetary gear systems 166a, 166b operate in unison to provide a reduction in the gear ratio between first rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM> and screw member <NUM>. In this manner, the reduction in the speed of rotation of screw member <NUM> relative to drive connector <NUM> is a product of the reduction provided by the first and second planetary gear systems 166a, 166b.

Screw member <NUM> is rotatably supported within proximal housing portion <NUM> and includes a threaded distal end 168b that operably engages a threaded inner surface 170a of pusher member <NUM>. As screw member <NUM> is rotated in the first direction, engagement of threaded distal end 168b of screw member <NUM> with threaded inner surface 170a of pusher member <NUM> causes longitudinal advancement of pusher member <NUM>, as indicated by arrows "A" in <FIG>. Conversely, rotation of screw member <NUM> in the second direction causes retraction of pusher member <NUM>.

Pusher member <NUM> includes a pair of tabs <NUM> formed on a distal end thereof for engaging connector extensions <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG>) of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG>) of extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG>). Although shown as tabs <NUM>, it is envisioned that pusher member <NUM> may include any structure suitable for selectively engaging connector extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of outer flexible band <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>.

With particular reference now to <FIG> , second pusher assembly <NUM> is substantially similar to first pusher assembly <NUM>, and includes proximal and distal housing sections <NUM>, <NUM>, a planetary gear assembly <NUM> operably mounted within proximal housing section <NUM>, a screw member <NUM> operably connected to planetary gear assembly <NUM> and rotatably supported within distal housing section <NUM>, and a pusher member <NUM> operably connected to screw member <NUM> and slidably disposed within distal housing section <NUM>. Each of proximal housing section <NUM> and distal housing section <NUM> includes a pair of longitudinal flanges 182a, 184a (<FIG> ; only one shown), respectively, engage an inner surface of sleeve <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> to prevent rotation of respective proximal housing section <NUM> and distal housing section <NUM> relative to sleeve <NUM> during operation of surgical device <NUM>. Planetary gear assembly <NUM> includes first and second planetary gear systems 186a, 186b (<FIG> ). First planetary gear system 186a includes a central drive gear 192a mounted on a distal end of tubular connector <NUM> of drive transfer assembly <NUM> and a plurality of planetary gears 194a rotatably mounted to a rotatable support ring <NUM>.

Each planetary gear 194a engages central drive gear 192a and a toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM>. As central drive gear 192a rotates in a first direction, i.e., clockwise, each planetary gear 194a rotates in a second direction, i.e., counterclockwise. As each planetary gear 194a rotates in the second direction, engagement of planetary gears 194a with toothed inner surface <NUM> of distal housing section <NUM> causes rotatable support ring <NUM> to rotate in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of central drive gear 192a in the second direction causes rotation of each planetary gear 194a in the first direction thereby causing rotation of rotatable support ring <NUM> in the second direction. The configuration of first planetary gear system 186a provides a reduction in the gear ratio. In this manner, the speed of rotation of rotatable support ring <NUM> is less than the speed of rotation of central drive gear 190a.

Second planetary gear system 186b includes a central drive gear 192b securely affixed to rotatable support ring <NUM> and a plurality of planetary gears 194b rotatably mounted to a proximal end surface 188a of screw member <NUM>. Each planetary gear 194b engages central drive gear 192b and toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM>. As rotatable support ring <NUM> of first planetary gear system 186a rotates in the first direction thereby causing central drive gear 192b to also rotate in the first direction, each planetary gear 174b rotates in the second direction. As each planetary gear 194b rotates in the second direction, engagement of planetary gears 194b with toothed inner surface <NUM> of proximal housing section <NUM> causes screw member <NUM> to rotate in the first direction. Conversely, rotation of central drive gear 192b in the second direction causes rotation of each planetary gear 194b in the first direction, thereby causing screw member <NUM> to rotate in the second direction. The configuration of second planetary gear system 186b provides a reduction in the gear ratio. In this manner, the speed of rotation of screw member <NUM> is less than the speed of rotation of central drive gear 182b. First and second planetary gear systems 186a, 186b operate in unison to provide a reduction in the gear ratio between second rotatable proximal drive shaft <NUM> and screw member <NUM>. In this manner, the reduction in the speed of rotation of screw member <NUM> relative to tubular connector <NUM> is a product of the reduction provided by the first and second planetary gear systems 186a, 186b.

Screw member <NUM> is rotatably supported within proximal housing portion <NUM> and includes a threaded distal end 188b that operably engages a threaded inner surface 190a of pusher member <NUM>. As screw member <NUM> is rotated in the first direction, engagement of threaded distal end 188b of screw member <NUM> with threaded inner surface 190a of pusher member <NUM> causes longitudinal advancement of pusher member <NUM>. Conversely, rotation of screw member <NUM> in the second direction causes retraction of pusher member <NUM>. Pusher member <NUM> includes a pair of longitudinal flanges <NUM> (<FIG> ; only one shown) that engage distal housing section <NUM> of second pusher assembly <NUM> for preventing rotation of pusher member <NUM> relative distal housing section <NUM>.

Pusher member <NUM> includes a pair of tabs <NUM> formed on a distal end thereof for engaging connector extensions <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> <FIG> ) of extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ). Although shown as tabs <NUM>, it is envisioned that pusher member <NUM> may include any structure suitable for selectively engaging connector extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of outer flexible band <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>.

Extension assembly <NUM> for operably connecting adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) with a circular loading unit, e.g. loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ) and an anvil assembly, e.g., anvil assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) will be described with reference now to <FIG>. In particular, a proximal end <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> operably connects with distal end <NUM> (<FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) and a distal end <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> operably connects with loading unit <NUM> and anvil assembly <NUM>. As shown, extension assembly <NUM> provides a slight curvature between proximal and distal end <NUM>, <NUM>. In alternative embodiment, extension assembly <NUM> may be straight or may include a greater curvature. Although extension assembly <NUM> will be shown and described as being used to connect loading unit <NUM> and anvil assembly <NUM> to adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ), it is envisioned that the aspects of the present disclosure may be modified for use with various loading units, anvil assemblies, and adapter assemblies. Exemplary loading units and anvil assemblies are described in commonly owned <CIT> and <CIT>and <CIT>.

Extension assembly <NUM> includes an inner flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ), about an outer flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) slidably disposed about inner flexible band assembly <NUM>, a frame assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ) for supporting inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, a trocar assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) operably received through inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, and a connector assembly <NUM> for securing loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ) to extension assembly <NUM>. An outer sleeve <NUM> (<FIG> ) is received about frame assembly <NUM> and trocar assembly <NUM> and inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> are slidably received through outer sleeve <NUM>. As will be described in further detail below, extension assembly <NUM> may include a drive shaft <NUM> operably connected to trocar assembly <NUM> and extending through proximal end <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, inner flexible band assembly <NUM> includes first and second inner flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM>, a support ring <NUM>, a support base <NUM>, and first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM>. Proximal ends 212a, 214a of respective first and second inner flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> are laterally spaced apart and securely attached to support ring <NUM>. Distal ends 212b, 214b of first and second inner flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> are laterally spaced apart and securely attached to a proximal end 218a of support base <NUM>. Each of first and second inner flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached to support ring <NUM> and/or support base <NUM> in any suitable manner, including, for example, by press-fitting, welding, adhesives, and/or with mechanical fasteners. As will be described in further detail below, inner flexible band assembly <NUM> is configured to be slidably received about trocar assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ) and within outer flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) and outer sleeve <NUM> (<FIG>).

First and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> extend proximally from support ring <NUM> and operably connect inner flexible band assembly <NUM> with pusher member <NUM> (<FIG> ) of second pusher assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ). In particular, each of first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> define openings <NUM>, <NUM> configured to receive tabs <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of pusher member <NUM> (<FIG> ) of second pusher assembly <NUM>. Receipt of tabs <NUM> of pusher member <NUM> within openings <NUM>, <NUM> of respective first and second extensions <NUM>, <NUM> secure inner flexible band assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> with second pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. First and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> may be integrally formed with support ring <NUM>, or attached thereto in any suitable manner.

Support base <NUM> extends distally from inner flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> and is configured to selectively connect extension assembly <NUM> with loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ). Specifically, a distal end 218b of support base <NUM> includes a flange <NUM> for operable engagement with an axially movable assembly (not shown) of loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ). In one embodiment, flange <NUM> is configured for connection with a knife assembly (not shown) of loading unit <NUM> (<FIG>).

With reference now to <FIG> , outer flexible band assembly <NUM> is substantially similar to inner flexible band assembly <NUM> and includes first and second flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> laterally spaced and connected on proximal ends 232a, 234a to a support ring <NUM> and on distal ends 232b, 234b to a proximal end 238a of a support base <NUM>. Each of first and second outer flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> may be attached to support ring <NUM> and support base <NUM> in any suitable manner, including, for example, by press-fitting, welding, adhesives, and/or with mechanical fasteners. As will be described in further detail below, outer flexible band assembly <NUM> is configured to receive trocar assembly <NUM> (<FIG>) therethrough.

First and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> extend proximally from support ring <NUM> and operably connect outer flexible band assembly <NUM> with pusher member <NUM> (<FIG> ) of first pusher assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ). In particular, each of first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> define openings <NUM>, <NUM> configured to receive tabs <NUM> (<FIG> ) of pusher member <NUM> of first pusher assembly <NUM>. Receipt of tabs <NUM> of pusher member <NUM> within openings <NUM>, <NUM> of respective first and second extensions <NUM>, <NUM> secures outer flexible band assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> with first pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. First and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> may be integrally formed with support ring <NUM>, or attached thereto in any suitable manner.

Support base <NUM> extends distally from outer flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> and is configured to selectively connect extension assembly <NUM> with loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ). Specifically, a distal end 238b of support base <NUM> includes a flange <NUM> for operable engagement with an axially movable assembly (not shown) of a loading unit (not shown). In one embodiment, flange <NUM> is configured for connection with a staple pusher assembly (not shown) of loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ).

With reference now to <FIG>, frame assembly <NUM> includes first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM>, and first and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM>. When secured together, first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> define a pair of inner longitudinal slots 253a for slidably receiving first and second flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) and a pair of outer longitudinal slots 253b for slidably receiving first and second flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ). First and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> further define a longitudinal passage <NUM> for receipt of trocar assembly <NUM>.

As shown, first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> are formed of plastic and are secured together with a snap-fit arrangement. Alternatively, first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed of metal or other suitable material and may be secured together in any suitable manner, including by welding, adhesives, and/or using mechanical fasteners.

First and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> define a pair of inner slots 257a for slidably receiving first and second flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) and a pair of outer slots 257b for slidably receiving first and second flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ). First and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> further define a longitudinal passage <NUM> for receipt of trocar assembly <NUM>.

As shown, each of first and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> may be secured about inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> and to outer sleeve <NUM> ( <FIG> ) by a pair of screws 260a, 260b (<FIG> ). Alternatively, first and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> may be secured together in any suitable manner, including by welding, adhesives, and/or using mechanical fasteners. First and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> may be formed of metal or any other suitable material.

With reference now to <FIG>, frame assembly <NUM> further includes a proximal seal member <NUM> and first and second distal seal members <NUM>, <NUM>. Each of proximal seal member <NUM> and first and second distal seal members <NUM>, <NUM> include seals halves 262a, 262b, 264a, 264b, 266a, 266b, respectively. Proximal seal member <NUM> is received between first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> and first and second distal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM>. First half 264a of first distal seal member <NUM> is secured to first half 266a of second distal seal member <NUM> and second half 264b of first distal seal member <NUM> is secured to second half of second distal seal member <NUM>. Proximal seal member <NUM> and first and second distal seal members <NUM>, <NUM> engage outer sleeve <NUM> ( <FIG> ), inner and outer flexible bands <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, <NUM> of respective inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> and trocar assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) in a sealing manner. In this manner, proximal seal member <NUM> and first and second distal seal members <NUM>, <NUM> operate to provide a fluid tight seal between distal end <NUM> and proximal end <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, trocar assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> includes an outer housing <NUM>, a trocar member <NUM> slidably disposed within tubular outer housing <NUM>, and a drive screw <NUM> operably received within trocar member <NUM> for axially moving trocar member <NUM> relative to tubular housing <NUM>. In particular, trocar member <NUM> includes a proximal end 274a having an inner threaded portion <NUM> which engages a threaded distal portion 276b of drive screw <NUM>. As drive screw <NUM> is rotated within trocar member <NUM>, engagement of inner threaded portion <NUM> of trocar member <NUM> with threaded distal portion 276b of drive screw <NUM> causes longitudinal movement of trocar member <NUM> within outer housing <NUM> of trocar assembly <NUM>. Rotation of drive screw <NUM> in a first direction causes longitudinal advancement of trocar member <NUM> and rotation of drive screw <NUM> in a second direction causes longitudinal retraction of trocar member <NUM>. A distal end 274b of trocar member <NUM> is configured to selectively engage anvil assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ).

A bearing assembly <NUM> is mounted to a proximal end 272a of outer housing <NUM> of trocar assembly <NUM> for rotatably supporting a proximal end 276a of drive screw <NUM> relative to outer housing <NUM> and trocar member <NUM>. Bearing assembly <NUM> includes a housing 278a, proximal and distal spacers 278b, proximal and distal retention clips 278c, proximal and distal bearings 278d, and a washer 278e. As shown, proximal end 276a of drive screw <NUM> includes a flange 276c for connection with a link assembly <NUM>.

Link assembly <NUM> operably connects transfer assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM> with trocar assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) of extension assembly <NUM>. More particularly, link assembly <NUM> transfers rotational energy from drive member <NUM> (<FIG> ) of transfer assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> through the curved outer tube <NUM> (<FIG> ) of extension assembly <NUM> to flange 276c ( <FIG> ) on proximal end 276a of drive screw <NUM> of trocar assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>, with reference to <FIG> , link assembly <NUM> includes a coupling member <NUM>, a first drive shaft <NUM>, and a second drive shaft <NUM>. A proximal end 282a of coupling member <NUM> defines a recess 283a for receiving a distal end 284b of first drive shaft <NUM>. A distal end 282b of coupling member <NUM> defines a recess 283a for operably receiving flange 276c on proximal end 276a of drive screw <NUM>. Coupling member <NUM> includes an annular flange 282c for rotatably receiving coupling member <NUM> between first and second proximal spacer members <NUM>, <NUM> ( <FIG> ). Proximal and distal ends 284a, <NUM> of first drive shaft <NUM> define oversized openings 285a, 285b, respectively, for receiving pins 288a, 288b, respectively. A distal end 286b of second drive shaft <NUM> defines a recess <NUM> for operably receiving proximal end 284a of drive shaft <NUM>. A proximal end 286a of drive shaft <NUM> includes a flange 286c for operable receipt within socket <NUM> of drive member <NUM> of drive transfer assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ).

With particular reference to <FIG>, proximal end 284a of first drive shaft <NUM> is operably received within recess <NUM> in distal end 286b of second drive shaft <NUM>. Distal end 284b of first drive shaft <NUM> is pivotally secured within recess 283a of coupling member <NUM> by pin 288a received through oversized opening 285b in distal end 284b of first drive shaft <NUM>. Proximal end 284a of first drive shaft <NUM> is pivotally secured within recess <NUM> in distal end 286b of second drive shaft <NUM> by pin 288b received through oversized opening 285a in proximal end 284a of first drive shaft <NUM>. Recesses 283a and <NUM> of coupling member <NUM> and second drive shaft <NUM>, respectively, and oversized openings 285a, 285b of first drive shaft <NUM> are configured to permit pivoting of second drive shaft <NUM> relative to first drive shaft <NUM> and pivoting of first drive shaft <NUM> relative to coupling member <NUM> as each of first and second drive shaft <NUM>, <NUM>, and coupling member <NUM> are rotated about their respective longitudinal axes to transfer rotational force from transfer assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) of adapter assembly <NUM> to trocar assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) of extension assembly <NUM>.

With reference now to <FIG>, connector assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> includes a tubular connector <NUM> attached to a distal end 206b of outer sleeve <NUM> and about distal ends of inner and outer flexible assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> ) and trocar assembly <NUM>. In particular, a proximal end 292a of tubular connector <NUM> is received within and securely attached to distal end 206b of outer sleeve <NUM> by a retaining clip <NUM>. An O-ring <NUM> forms a fluid tight seal between tubular connector <NUM> of connector assembly <NUM> and outer sleeve <NUM>. A distal end 292b of tubular connector <NUM> is configured to selectively engage a proximal end of loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ). Distal end 292b of tubular connector <NUM> engages the circular loading unit with a snap-fit arrangement, bayonet coupling, or in another suitable manner.

With reference now to <FIG> and <FIG>, extension assembly <NUM> is connected to adapter assembly <NUM> by receiving proximal end <NUM> (<FIG> ) of extension assembly <NUM> within distal end <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. In particular, first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of respective inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> are received within sleeve <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> such that tabs <NUM> of pusher member <NUM> of first pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> are received within openings <NUM>, <NUM> of respective first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> to secure outer flexible band assembly <NUM> with first pusher assembly <NUM> and tabs <NUM> of pusher member <NUM> of second pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> are received within openings <NUM>, <NUM> of first and second connection extensions <NUM>, <NUM> of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> to secure inner flexible band assembly <NUM> with second pusher assembly <NUM>.

As noted above, adapter assembly <NUM> may include a drive shaft <NUM> (<FIG> ) that extends from distal end <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. Prior to receipt of proximal portion <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> within distal end <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>, drive shaft <NUM> is removed from adapter assembly <NUM>. As proximal portion <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> is received within distal end <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>, proximal end 286a (<FIG> ) of second drive shaft <NUM> (<FIG> ) is received within socket <NUM> of drive member <NUM> of drive transfer assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ).

After extension assembly <NUM> is operably engaged with adapter assembly <NUM>, and adapter assembly <NUM> is operably engaged with surgical device <NUM> (<FIG>), loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of end effector <NUM> ( <FIG> ) may be attached to connector assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> and an anvil assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) may be attached to distal end 274b of trocar <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> in a conventional manner. During actuation of loading unit <NUM> and anvil assembly <NUM>, longitudinal advancement of pusher member <NUM> of second pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>, as described above, and as indicated by arrows "C" in <FIG>, causes longitudinal advancement of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM> and longitudinal advancement of pusher member <NUM> of first pusher assembly <NUM>, as described above, and as indicated by arrows "D" in <FIG>, causes longitudinal advancement of inner flexible band assembly <NUM>. Rotation of drive shaft <NUM> in a first direction, as described above, and as indicated by arrow "E", causes advancement of trocar <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>. Conversely, longitudinal retraction of pusher member <NUM> causes longitudinal retraction of outer flexible band assembly <NUM>, longitudinal retraction of pusher member <NUM> causes longitudinal retraction of inner flexible band assembly <NUM>, and rotation of drive shaft <NUM> in a second direction causes retraction of trocar <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>.

In embodiments, inner flexible band assembly <NUM> operably connects second pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> with a knife assembly (not shown) of loading unit <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of end effector <NUM> ( <FIG> ) attached to connector assembly <NUM> of extension assembly <NUM>. Outer flexible band assembly <NUM> operably connects first pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> with a staple driver assembly (not shown) of loading unit <NUM>. Trocar assembly <NUM> operably connects drive transfer assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> to anvil assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ) of end effector <NUM> ( <FIG> ). In this manner, operation of second pusher assembly <NUM> causes longitudinal movement of inner flexible band assembly <NUM> which causes longitudinal movement of the knife assembly, operation of first pusher assembly <NUM> causes longitudinal movement of outer flexible band assembly <NUM> which causes longitudinal movement of the staple driver assembly, and operation of drive transfer assembly <NUM> causes longitudinal movement of trocar <NUM> which causes longitudinal movement of anvil assembly <NUM> relative to loading unit <NUM>.

By stacking first and second pusher assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>, as described, and positioning the drive shaft <NUM> of the transfer assembly <NUM> through first and second pusher assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, adapter assembly <NUM> can perform three functions through an access port or other opening (not shown) having a small diameter, e.g., <NUM>. Similarly, by configuring inner flexible band assembly <NUM> within outer flexible band assembly <NUM> and receiving trocar assembly <NUM> through the inner and outer flexible band assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>, extension assembly <NUM> can perform three functions through an access port or other opening (not shown) having a small diameter, e.g., <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, an adapter assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown as adapter assembly <NUM>. Adapter assembly <NUM> is substantially similar to adapter assembly <NUM> described hereinabove and will only be described as relates to the differences therebetween.

As will become apparent from the following description, the configuration of adapter assembly <NUM> permits rotation of a distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> about a longitudinal axis "x" ( <FIG> ), relative to a proximal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. In this manner, an end effector, e.g. end effector <NUM> ( <FIG> ) secured to distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> or an end effector secured to an extension assembly, e.g., extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) which is secured to distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> is rotatable about longitudinal axis "x" independent of movement of the surgical device (not shown) to which adapter assembly <NUM> is attached.

Adapter assembly <NUM> includes a base <NUM> and a support structure <NUM> rotatable relative to base <NUM> along longitudinal axis "x" of adapter assembly <NUM>. A rotation handle <NUM> is rotatably secured to base <NUM> and fixedly secured to a proximal end of support structure <NUM>. Rotation handle <NUM> permits longitudinal rotation of distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> relative to proximal end <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. As will be described in further detail below, a latch <NUM> is mounted to rotation handle <NUM> and selectively secures rotation handle <NUM> in a fixed longitudinal position.

Proximal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> includes a drive coupling assembly <NUM> and a drive transfer assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive coupling assembly <NUM>. Distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> includes a first pusher assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive transfer assembly <NUM>, and a second pusher assembly <NUM> operably connected to drive transfer assembly <NUM>. Drive coupling assembly <NUM> and drive transfer assembly <NUM> are mounted within base <NUM>, and thus, remain rotationally fixed relative to the surgical device (not shown) to which adapter assembly <NUM> is attached. First pusher assembly <NUM> and second pusher assembly <NUM> are mounted within support structure <NUM>, and thus, are rotatable relative to the surgical device (not shown) to which adapter assembly <NUM> is attached.

Drive coupling assembly <NUM> is configured to selectively secure adapter assembly <NUM> to a surgical device (not shown). For a detailed description of an exemplary surgical device and drive coupling assembly, please refer to commonly owned <CIT>.

Rotation knob <NUM> is rotatably secured to base <NUM>. Latch <NUM> includes a pin 312a (<FIG> ) configured to lock rotation knob <NUM> relative to base <NUM>. In particular, pin 312a of latch <NUM> is received within a slot <NUM> formed in base <NUM> and is biased distally by a spring <NUM> into a notch 307a (<FIG> ) formed in base <NUM> and in communication with slot <NUM> to lock rotation knob <NUM> relative to base <NUM>. Proximal movement of latch <NUM>, as indicated by arrow "F" in <FIG> , retracts pin 312a from within notch 307a to permit rotation of rotation knob <NUM> relative to base <NUM>. In embodiments, base <NUM> defines a second notch (not shown) diametrically opposed to notch 307a for locking rotation knob <NUM> in a first longitudinal orientation when pin 312a of latch <NUM> is received within notch 307a and in a second longitudinal orientation that is one-hundred eighty degrees (<NUM>°) rotated from the first longitudinal orientation when the pin 312a of latch <NUM> is received within the second notch. Alternatively, it is envisioned that base <NUM> may define a number of notches radially spaced about base <NUM> and in communication with slot <NUM> that permit rotation knob <NUM> to be locked in a number of longitudinal orientations relative to base <NUM>.

Drive transfer assembly <NUM>, first drive pusher assembly <NUM>, and second drive pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> are substantially identical to respective drive transfer assembly <NUM>, first drive pusher assembly <NUM>, and second drive pusher assembly <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> described hereinabove, and therefore, will only be described as relates to the differences therebetween.

Support structure <NUM> is fixedly received about first and second drive pusher assemblies <NUM>, <NUM> and rotatably relative to base <NUM>. As noted above, rotation knob <NUM> is fixedly secured to the proximal end of support structure <NUM> to facilitate rotation of support structure <NUM> relative to base <NUM>. Support structure <NUM> is retained with outer sleeve <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM> and is configured to maintain axial alignment of first and second drive pusher assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. Support structure <NUM> may also reduce the cost of adapter assembly <NUM> when compared to the cost of adapter assembly <NUM>.

Support structure <NUM> respectively includes first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh plates 360a, 360b, 360c, 360d, 360e, 360f, <NUM>, first and second pluralities of tubular supports 362a, 362b, first and second support rings 364a, 364b, first and second plurality of ribs 366a, 366b, and a plurality of rivets <NUM>. From proximal to distal, first and second plates 360a, 360b are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by the first plurality of tubular supports 362a, second and third plates 360b, 360c are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by first support ring 364a, third and fourth plates 360c, 360d are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by first plurality of support ribs 366a, fourth and fifth plates 360d, 360e are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by second plurality of tubular supports 362b, fifth and sixth plates 360e, 360f are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by a second support ring 364b, and sixth and seventh plates 360f, <NUM> are maintained in spaced apart relation to each other by second plurality of support ribs 366b. First, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh plates 360a-g are held together by a plurality of rivets <NUM> secured to first and seventh plates 360a, <NUM> and extending through second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth plates 360b-360f, first and second support rings 364a, 364b, and respective first and second plurality of tubular support 362a, 362b.

Adapter assembly <NUM> operates in a substantially similar manner to adapter assembly <NUM> described hereinabove. In addition, as described in detail above, adapter assembly <NUM> is configured to permit rotation of an end effector, e.g., end effector <NUM> (<FIG> ) attached to adapter assembly <NUM> or attached to an extension assembly that is attached to adapter assembly <NUM> to be selectively rotated about longitudinal axis "x" ( <FIG> ) during use.

With reference now to <FIG> , an adapter assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown generally as adapter assembly <NUM>. Adapter assembly <NUM> is substantially similar to adapter assemblies <NUM> and <NUM> described hereinabove, and therefore will only be described as relates to the differences therebetween.

Adapter assembly <NUM> includes a proximal portion <NUM> and a distal portion <NUM> rotatable along a longitudinal axis "x" relative to proximal portion <NUM>. Distal portion <NUM> includes a support structure <NUM> secured to outer sleeve <NUM> and formed about first and second pusher assemblies <NUM>, <NUM>. Support structure <NUM> includes a plurality of reinforcing members <NUM> extending substantially the length of outer sleeve <NUM>. Reinforcing members <NUM> each include a proximal tab 462a and a distal tab 462b which extend through outer sleeve <NUM> to secure reinforcing member <NUM> within outer sleeve <NUM>. Proximal tabs <NUM> of reinforcing members <NUM> are further configured to engage a rotation knob <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. Adapter assembly <NUM> may include annular plates (not shown) positioned radially inward of reinforcing members <NUM> that maintain proximal and distal tabs 462a, 462b of reinforcing members <NUM> in engagement with outer sleeve <NUM>. The annular plates may also provide structure support to distal portion <NUM> of adapter assembly <NUM>. The configuration of adapter assembly <NUM> allows for a single tube, e.g. outer sleeve <NUM>, for containing the drive components. With reference to <FIG>, a connection assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown generally as connection assembly <NUM>. As shown and will be described, connection assembly <NUM> is configured to be attached to first and second tubular bodies (not shown) for connecting the first tubular body, i.e., adapter assembly <NUM> ( <FIG> ), <NUM> ( <FIG> ), <NUM> ( <FIG> ), to the second tubular body, i.e., extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG>). It is envisioned, however, that the aspects of the present disclosure may be incorporated directly into the first and second tubular bodies to permit connection of the first tubular body directly to the second tubular body.

Connection assembly <NUM> includes a tubular base <NUM> and a tubular extension <NUM> formed of first and second sections 520a, 520b and an outer sleeve <NUM>. As shown, tubular base <NUM> defines a pair of openings <NUM> for securing tubular base <NUM> to a first tubular body (not shown). Alternatively, tubular base <NUM> may include only a single opening, one or more tabs (not shown), and/or one or more slots (not shown), for securing tubular base <NUM> to the first tubular body (not shown). A flange <NUM> extends from a first end of tubular base <NUM> and includes an annular rim <NUM> extending thereabout.

First and second sections 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM> are substantially similar to one another and each define a groove <NUM> formed along an inner first surface thereof. Each of first and second section 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM> is configured to be received about flange <NUM> of tubular base <NUM> such that rim <NUM> of tubular base <NUM> is received within grooves <NUM> of first and second sections 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM>. Once first and second sections 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM> are received about flange <NUM> of tubular base <NUM>, outer sleeve <NUM> of tubular extension <NUM> is received about first and second sections 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM> to secure tubular extension <NUM> to tubular base <NUM>.

As shown, each of first and second sections 520a, 520b of tubular extension <NUM> define an opening <NUM> configured to be aligned with a pair of openings <NUM> in outer sleeve <NUM> to secure outer sleeve <NUM> to first and second sections 520a, 520b. Either or both of first and second sections 520a, 520b and outer sleeve <NUM> may include one or more tabs, and/or one or more slots for securing outer sleeve <NUM> about first and second extensions. Alternatively, outer sleeve <NUM> may be secured to first and second sections 520a, 520b in any suitable manner.

Outer sleeve <NUM> may be selectively secured about first and second extensions for selective removal of outer sleeve <NUM> from about first and second sections 520a, 520b to permit separation of tubular extension <NUM> from tubular base <NUM>. Alternatively, outer sleeve <NUM> may be permanently secured about first and second section to prevent tubular extension <NUM> from being separated from tubular base <NUM>. As noted above, although tubular base <NUM> and tubular extension <NUM> are shown and described as forming an independent connection assembly <NUM>, it is envisioned that tubular base <NUM> may be formed on a first tubular member, i.e., adapter assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) and tubular extension <NUM> may be formed on a second tubular member, i.e., extension assembly <NUM> (<FIG> ) such that the first tubular member may be directly connected to the second tubular member.

Any of the components described herein may be fabricated from either metals, plastics, resins, composites or the like taking into consideration strength, durability, wearability, weight, resistance to corrosion, ease of manufacturing, cost of manufacturing, and the like.

Claim 1:
An assembly for operably connecting an end effector to an electrosurgical instrument, the assembly comprising:
an adapter assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) including,
a connector assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>);
a drive transfer assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably received through the connector assembly and including first, second, and third rotatable shafts;
a first pusher assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably connected to the first rotatable shaft (<NUM>) for converting rotational motion from the first rotatable shaft to longitudinal movement to perform a first function, the first pusher assembly including first proximal and distal housing sections (<NUM>, <NUM>), a first planetary gear assembly (<NUM>) operably mounted within the proximal housing section (<NUM>) and a first drive screw (<NUM>) operably connected to the first planetary gear assembly (<NUM>);
a second pusher assembly (<NUM>, <NUM>) operably connected to the second rotatable shaft (<NUM>) for converting rotational motion from the second rotatable shaft to longitudinal movement to perform a second function, wherein the second pusher assembly is substantially similar to the first pusher assembly, the second pusher assembly including second proximal and distal housing sections (<NUM>, <NUM>), a second planetary gear assembly (<NUM>) operably mounted within the second proximal housing section (<NUM>) and a second drive screw (<NUM>) operably connected to the second planetary gear assembly (<NUM>); and
a drive member (<NUM>) operably connected to the third rotatable shaft (<NUM>) for transferring rotational motion from the third rotatable shaft to perform a third function;
wherein rotation of the first drive screw (<NUM>) causes longitudinal movement of the first pusher member (<NUM>) and rotation of the second drive screw (<NUM>) causes longitudinal movement of the second pusher member (<NUM>); and
a drive member (<NUM>) operably connected to the third rotatable shaft (<NUM>) for transferring rotational motion from the third rotatable shaft to perform a third function;
and
an extension assembly (<NUM>) including,
at least one flexible band assembly (<NUM>) operably connected to one of the first and second pusher assemblies.