Patent ID: 7225964

Claim:
A surgical stapler comprising: a) a handle assembly including a pivotable handle mounted for manipulation through at least one actuating stroke; b) an elongated body extending distally from the handle assembly and defining a longitudinal axis; c) a channel disposed adjacent the distal end of the elongated body; d) a staple cartridge configured and dimensioned to be supported by the channel, the staple cartridge containing a plurality of staples; e) an anvil pivotally mounted in relation to the cartridge adjacent the distal end of the elongated body, the anvil having a fastener forming surface thereon and being mounted for pivotal movement in relation to the cartridge; f) an actuation sled positioned in the staple cartridge, the actuation sled being movable to eject the plurality of staples from the staple cartridge; g) a drive assembly including a drive member having a working end and a cam member on the working end, the cam member being positioned to engage the anvil to effectuate progressive closure of the anvil against tissue, the pivotable handle being operably connected to the drive assembly such that manipulation of the pivotable handle through at least one actuating stroke effects translation of the cam member relative to the anvil; and h) a flange member supported at the working end of the drive member, the flange member being positioned to engage the channel.