Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080269715 | Use of an Adhesive as an Intestinal Barrier for Bariatrics - An apparatus for achieving weight loss in a patient is disclosed. The apparatus has a barrier material and an applicator for dispensing the barrier material about the intestine. An injector is used to place the barrier material to block nutrient transfer from the intestine into the blood stream. The barrier material is a polymerizable adhesive that can be injected interstitially between layers of the intestine, or injected into vascular structures to partially block the flow of blood to the nutrient absorbing layers. | 10-30-2008 |
20090143818 | Use of an Adhesive to Treat Intraluminal Bleeding - A surgical device to stanch the flow of blood is disclosed. The surgical device can place an implantable adhesive over or around varices or other bleeders. The surgical device has a vacuum system for capturing tissue and an adhesive system to apply adhesive to the captured tissue. A vacuum chamber is used to contact tissue and contains a chamber therein for the reception of tissue. An adhesive applicator is provided within the vacuum chamber and moves longitudinally therein to apply adhesive to tissue. The surgical device can apply an adhesive patch to tissue or inject adhesive into tissue. Alternately, an adhesive actuator and a chemical agent can be dispensed to tissue within the vacuum chamber. | 06-04-2009 |
20090206131 | END EFFECTOR COUPLING ARRANGEMENTS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT - In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, wherein the shaft defines an axis, and a disposable loading unit which is assembled to the shaft in a direction which is transverse to the shaft axis. Such a connection between the disposable loading unit and the shaft can prevent, or at least inhibit, the disposable loading unit from being unintentionally displaced proximally and/or distally relative to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The surgical stapling instrument and/or disposable loading unit can further include a threaded collar and/or detent assembly configured to hold the disposable loading unit in place. In various embodiments, a disposable loading unit can include a lockout feature which can prevent, or at least inhibit, an expended disposable loading unit from being reassembled to the elongated body of the surgical instrument. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206134 | DISPOSABLE LOADING UNIT FOR SURGICAL STAPLING APPARATUS - A disposable loading unit for operable attachment to a surgical stapling apparatus. The disposable loading unit may have a carrier that supports a staple cartridge and an anvil assembly that is movable coupled to the carrier. The various embodiments may further have an axial drive assembly that is configured to impart a closing motion to the anvil assembly and also supports a cutting blade thereon. The axial drive assembly is configured to receive firing motions and retraction motions from the surgical stapling apparatus. Various embodiments have an anvil release assembly that enables the anvil assembly to be released from a clamping orientation in the event that the cutting blade becomes jammed during operation. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206139 | BUTTRESS MATERIAL FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A piece of buttress material and an end-effector of a surgical instrument including features which can aid a surgeon in properly and quickly attaching the piece of buttress material to the end-effector. In various embodiments, a piece of buttress material can include retention features which can be engaged with portions of an end-effector to releasably retain the piece of buttress material to at least a portion of the end-effector. Similarly, an end-effector can include features configured to engage portions of a piece of buttress material to releasably retain the piece of buttress material to the end-effector. In at least one embodiment, more than one piece of buttress material can be releasably retained to an end-effector. | 08-20-2009 |
20090206140 | END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT - In various embodiments, an anvil of a disposable loading unit including a first member having staple pockets for deforming staples, a first cover plate secured to the first member, and a second cover plate secured to at least one of the first member and the first cover plate, wherein the first and second cover plates can be configured to support the first member. In at least one embodiment, an anvil can include a first member inserted into a second member, where at least one of the first and second members can be deformed to retain one to the other. In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a disposable loading unit comprising a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a sleeve, wherein the sleeve can be configured to be slid relative to the staple cartridge and the anvil to hold the anvil in a closed position. | 08-20-2009 |
20090209946 | INTERCHANGEABLE TOOLS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical tool system. Various embodiments of the surgical tool system may comprise surgical instrument that has a handle assembly that operably supports a drive system therein for generating drive motions upon actuation of a movable handle portion operably coupled to the handle assembly. An elongated body protrudes from the handle assembly and operably supports a control rod therein that interfaces with the drive system. The surgical tool system further includes at least two surgical tools selected from the group of surgical tools consisting of: manipulators, nippers, scissors, endocutters, tissue thickness measurement devices, staple appliers, clip appliers, syringes for applying glue, sealant, drugs or medicaments and cauterization devices wherein each of the surgical tool within the group of surgical tools at least has a housing that is removably couplable to the elongated body and a drive assembly that is removably couplable to the control rod for receiving the drive motions therefrom. | 08-20-2009 |
20110071553 | IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION SYSTEM WITH LOAD MONITOR - An apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. A drive element is associated with and engages the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct. A load monitor ensures that excessive pressure is not applied to a patient's body organ or duct. | 03-24-2011 |
20110071557 | SYMMETRICAL DRIVE SYSTEM FOR AN IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION DEVICE - An apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. A symmetrical drive system including a drive element associated with and engaging the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct is further provided. In accordance with an alternate embodiment an apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct including an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. The tension element is composed of a flexible first member and a flexible second member, wherein the flexible first member is movable relative to the flexible second member. A drive element is associated with and engages the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct. | 03-24-2011 |
20110071558 | IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION SYSTEM TENSION RELEASE MECHANISM - An apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. A drive element is associated with and engages the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct. A tension release mechanism is associated with the tension element. | 03-24-2011 |
20110071646 | TISSUE INTERFACE FOR IMPLANTABLE RESTRICTION SYSTEM - An apparatus for regulating the functioning of a patient's organ or duct includes an elongated member having a first end and a second end. The elongated member has a compressible ventral surface and a substantially rigid dorsal periphery, wherein the elongated member includes a fluid bladder positioned along the ventral surface. A fastener is disposed on the first end of the elongated member. The fastener is configured to engage the second end of the elongated member so that the elongated member forms a loop around the organ or duct. A tension element is disposed for movement within the elongated member. A drive element is associated with and engages the tension element for causing the tension element to control the tension applied by the elongated member against a patient's body organ or duct. Alternate embodiments are also disclosed. | 03-24-2011 |
20110132964 | END EFFECTOR COUPLING ARRANGEMENTS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT - In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, wherein the shaft defines an axis, and a disposable loading unit which is assembled to the shaft in a direction which is transverse to the shaft axis. Such a connection between the disposable loading unit and the shaft can prevent, or at least inhibit, the disposable loading unit from being unintentionally displaced proximally and/or distally relative to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The surgical stapling instrument and/or disposable loading unit can further include a threaded collar and/or detent assembly configured to hold the disposable loading unit in place. In various embodiments, a disposable loading unit can include a lockout feature which can prevent, or at least inhibit, an expended disposable loading unit from being reassembled to the elongated body of the surgical instrument. | 06-09-2011 |
20110152759 | USE OF BIOMARKERS AND THERAPEUTIC AGENTS WITH SURGICAL DEVICES - Biomarkers are collected and used to determine biological propensities of a patient, to determine the efficacy of medical devices, to select and administer therapeutic agents, to select medical devices, to make adjustments to medical devices, and/or to adjust surgical techniques. An apparatus includes a port to draw a biological fluid (e.g., a mist) from a surgical site. The apparatus includes a sensor having a cantilevered beam. The beam includes substances selected to attract certain biomarkers as the fluid is communicated across the beam. The same apparatus or another apparatus is used to administer a therapeutic agent based at least in part on collected biomarker data. The therapeutic agent delivery apparatus may include a device that is also used to create a wound at a surgical site. For instance, a harmonic surgical instrument may be used to both collect biomarkers and administer a therapeutic agent (e.g., gene therapy using sonoporation). | 06-23-2011 |
20110282242 | Instrument for Applying Therapeutic Cells, with Proximal Portion for Processing Therapeutic Cells - A tissue harvesting and processing apparatus comprises a body and a distally extending needle. The needle includes an aperture configured to receive tissue. A tissue cutting member is movable relative to the needle to sever a specimen from tissue protruding through the aperture. A tissue processor is operable to mince tissue severed by the tissue cutting member. The minced tissue may be mixed with a medical fluid component contained in a reservoir. The medical fluid mixture may be expelled through an applier tip coupled with the body. The tissue processor may comprise a mincing die such that tissue specimens are minced upon being extruded through the mincing die. The tissue processor may comprise a blade that cooperates with a sliding press. The tissue processor may comprise auger blade sections that cooperate with inwardly extending pins. A mixing piston may mix the minced tissue with the medical fluid component. | 11-17-2011 |
20110282381 | Therapeutic Cell Applicator Instrument with Modular Tips - A surgical device comprises a housing, a bioprocessing module, an end effector, and a pumping device. The bioprocessing module comprises media reservoirs, fluid conduits in communication with the reservoirs, and a port through which media is expelled. The end effector is configured for insertion into a lumen and delivering a tissue repair composition into that lumen. The end effector has at least one fluid conduit extending therethrough and at least one orifice in communication with the fluid conduit. The fluid conduit in the first end effector is in fluid communication with the port on the bioprocessing module. The pumping device is operable to urge a tissue repair composition comprising at least a portion of the contents of the media reservoirs through the fluid conduit of the first end effector such that the tissue repair composition is expelled from the at least one orifice. | 11-17-2011 |
20110306967 | COOLING CONFIGURATIONS FOR ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - In various embodiments, a surgical instrument is provided that may comprise an end effector comprising at least one energy delivery surface and cooling means for cooling at least a portion of the end effector. For example, in at least one embodiment, a surgical instrument may comprise a handle, an elongate shaft operably coupling the handle to the end effector, and a pump operably coupled to the handle. In such embodiments, the pump may be configured to cause a fluid to move through the elongate shaft and over at least a portion of the end effector. Additionally, in at least one embodiment, a surgical kit is provided that may comprise a surgical instrument and a cap configured to receive at least a portion of the surgical instrument's end effector. In such embodiments, the cap may be sized and configured to receive at least a portion of the end effector. Moreover, the cap may be sized and configured to fit through a trocar. | 12-15-2011 |
20120012638 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ELECTRODES - An end-effector assembly configured to be attached to a surgical instrument. The end-effector assembly comprises a first jaw and a second jaw comprising a staple cavity. At least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other jaw. The end-effector assembly comprises a staple removably positioned within the staple cavity and an electrically-conductive driver configured to move the staple between a first stored position in which the staple is at least partially positioned within the staple cavity and a second position in which the staple is at least partially deployed from the staple cavity into tissue positioned intermediate the first jaw and the second jaw. The staple comprises an electrode. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022526 | ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke is regulated by at least one biasing member, such as a spring, for example. | 01-26-2012 |
20120022527 | ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by a damper. The damper may have barrel and a plunger. | 01-26-2012 |
20120022530 | ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT - A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The surgical instrument may have a indicator to provide feedback signals during the operational stroke. The feedback signals assist in regulating the rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element. | 01-26-2012 |
20120111591 | Packaging For Reclaimable Component Of A Medical Device - An apparatus for reclaiming insertable electrical components includes a lid, a container base, and a seal. The container base includes a container bottom and sidewalls. The container bottom further includes a recess that is defined by a recess bottom and recess sidewalls and is sized and configured to receive an insertable electrical component. The lid includes at least one boss to restrain the movement of a portion of the insertable electrical component when the insertable electrical component is inserted into the recess of the container base and the lid is attached to the container base. The boss may include a boss contact attached to the boss, and the boss contact may be electrically coupled to a discharge device or to an exterior contact. | 05-10-2012 |
20120112687 | Recharge system for medical devices - An apparatus comprises a base and at least one indicator in communication with the base. The base comprises a housing and at least one slot. The at least one slot is shaped to receive a reusable component from a surgical instrument. The at least one indicator is in communication with the at least one slot. The base is configured to detect at least one characteristic related to the reusable component when the reusable component is placed into the at least one slot. Wherein the at least one indicator is configured to provide a signal to the user regarding the at least one characteristic. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116265 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CHARGING DEVICES - A surgical instrument includes a first power source and a second power source. The first power source is configured to deliver power to a surgical instrument at a first rate of discharge. The second power source is configured to deliver power to the first power source at a second rate of discharge. The first power source and the second power source are positioned within the surgical instrument. The first power source and the second power source are further configured to communicate with a control module. The control module may rely on power from the first power source to drive an end effector of the surgical instrument. The end effector may comprise a harmonic/ultrasonic blade, RF electrosurgical electrodes, powered cutting/stapling features, and/or various other types of components. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116367 | MEDICAL DEVICE USAGE DATA PROCESSING - A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly having a lower portion with a hingedly attached end piece. When open, the end piece allows for receipt of a data card in a lower portion aperture. When closed, the end piece covers the aperture. In another version, the aperture is configured to receive a data card and battery pack assembly. Information is readable from and to the data card to measure a number of minutes the instrument was used during a procedure. Such information is communicated via wired or wireless communication to another device to determine a payment for the number of minutes used. Minutes are buyable from the device and writable onto the data card prior to insertion of the card into the instrument. In another version, a testing sequence is used in saline or via a tissue proxy to test the functionality of an instrument prior to a procedure. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116379 | Motor Driven Electrosurgical Device With Mechanical And Electrical Feedback - An electrosurgical device comprises an end effector, a cutting member, and en electromechanical driver. The end effector comprises a pair of jaws that clamp tissue. The jaws include electrodes that deliver RF energy to clamped tissue. The cutting member cuts tissue clamped between the jaws. The electromechanical driver drives the cutting member. A control module commands the electromechanical driver, and regulates the delivery of RF energy to the electrodes, based on a combination of user input and feedback signals from the electrodes and from the electromechanical driver. The device may provide tactile feedback to the user through the user input feature, based on a load encountered by the cutting member. The device may alert the user when the exterior of end effector makes incidental contact with tissue, to avoid inadvertently burning the tissue. The device may include a removable battery pack to power the electromechanical driver and the electrodes. | 05-10-2012 |
20120116380 | Sterile Medical Instrument Charging Device - A system includes a medical device and a charging device. A sterile barrier may be interposed between the medical device and the charging device. The medical device includes an integral power source and an active element. The charging device is configured to charge the integral power source. The charging device may charge the integral power source through direct contact between features of the charging device and features the medical device. The charging device may alternatively charge the integral power source wirelessly, such as through inductive coupling. The medical device may include conductive prongs that are retained by the charging device. The charging device may physically couple with the medical device via magnets. The medical device and the charging device may be provided together in a sterile package as a kit. The kit may also include a reclamation bag to facilitate reclamation of electrical components. | 05-10-2012 |
20120241496 | TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF CAPSULES - A tissue thickness compensator can comprise a plurality of layers. Various embodiments are disclosed herein for manufacturing a tissue thickness compensator. In certain embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator can comprise at least one medicament tube, capsule, and/or packet contained therein | 09-27-2012 |
20120241497 | TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING A RESERVOIR - In various embodiments, a tissue thickness compensator can comprise a compressible extracellular matrix and a bioabsorbable material dispersed within the extracellular matrix, wherein the bioapsorption of the bioabsorbable material is configured to leave behind channels in the extracellular matrix. The tissue thickness compensator can also comprise generation means for generating the ingrowth of tissue into the channels. In at least one embodiment, the tissue thickness compensator can comprise dissolvable wicking members which, when dissolved, can leave behind channels in the tissue thickness compensator. In certain embodiments, the tissue thickness compensator can comprise at least one rupturable capsule. | 09-27-2012 |
20120305427 | Sterile Package System For Medical Device - An apparatus for aseptic insertion includes a container, a first cover, and a second cover. The container includes a first compartment, a second compartment, and a detachable wall disposed between the first compartment and the second compartment. The first cover is sized and configured to attach to the first compartment and the second cover is sized and configured to attach to the container. The detachable wall may defined by a top portion, a portion of a first distal wall of the first compartment, and a portion of a second proximal wall of the second compartment. The detachable wall may be removably attached to the first cover by the top portion of the detachable wall. | 12-06-2012 |
20130253499 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PROGRAMMING MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT - A surgical instrument operable to sever tissue includes a body assembly and a selectively coupleable end effector assembly. The end effector assembly may include a transmission assembly and an end effector. The body assembly includes a trigger and a casing having a distal aperture configured to receive a portion of the end effector assembly. First and second coupling mechanism portions cooperatively couple the end effector assembly to the body assembly for use. A cartridge positionable between the instrument and a generator includes information regarding operating parameters unique to the selectively coupleable end effector assembly and/or the desired surgical procedure, such as information regarding setting a maximum current set point within an ultrasonic transducer. The instrument is programmable with operating parameter information while within a sealed and sterilized packaging unit. | 09-26-2013 |
20130256369 | TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR COMPRISING CHANNELS - A tissue thickness compensator can comprise a tissue contacting surface and a network of channels defined in the tissue contacting surface. In at least one embodiment, the channels can be configured to store at least one medicament therein. In certain embodiments, the channels can define gripping surfaces configured to grip tissue. In various embodiments, the tissue contacting surface can further comprise ridges extending therefrom. | 10-03-2013 |
20130256376 | TISSUE THICKNESS COMPENSATOR HAVING IMPROVED VISIBILITY - A staple cartridge assembly for use with a surgical stapler. The assembly has a cartridge body having a support portion with a plurality of staple cavities with openings. There is also a plurality of staples, wherein at least a portion of each the staple is removably stored within a the staple cavity. Each the staple is movable between an unfired position and a fired position, and is deformable between an unfired configuration and a fired configuration. The assembly also includes a compressible tissue thickness compensator configured to be captured within the staples. The compressible tissue thickness compensator at least partially covers the staple cavity openings. The compressed tissue thickness compensator is configured to assume different compressed heights within different the staples. The compressible tissue thickness compensator includes a visualization means. | 10-03-2013 |
20130267874 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH NERVE DETECTION FEATURE - A surgical apparatus comprises an instrument body, an end effector, and a control module. The end effector is in communication with the handle assembly. The end effector is operable for use in a surgical procedure. The control module is in communication with the end effector. The end effector with the control module is able to deliver surgical energy as well as nerve excitation energy to a surgical site. A surgeon may detect stimulation of nervous tissue by visually observing the tissue twitch, and may adjust surgical technique accordingly. A sensor may be used to detect excitation of nervous tissue based on excitation caused by the nerve excitation energy. | 10-10-2013 |
20130324999 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ORIENTATION SENSING - A surgical instrument comprises a body assembly and an end effector. The body assembly includes a control module, an orientation sensor communicatively coupled to the control module, and an energy component. The energy component is operable to activate the end effector at a plurality of energy settings. A storage device is communicatively coupled to the control module and includes a plurality of gesture profiles and corresponding energy settings. The control module is configured to set the energy setting of the energy component to a corresponding energy setting in response to a correlation between the output of the orientation sensor and a gesture profile. In some versions, the control module modifies the energy setting based upon output from a force sensor that measures the force on the end effector. The control module may also decrease the energy setting in response to an anomalous acceleration or deceleration detected by an accelerometer. | 12-05-2013 |
20140051950 | USE OF BIOMARKERS AND THERAPEUTIC AGENTS WITH SURGICAL DEVICES - Biomarkers are collected and used to determine biological propensities of a patient, to determine the efficacy of medical devices, to select and administer therapeutic agents, to select medical devices, to make adjustments to medical devices, and/or to adjust surgical techniques. An apparatus includes a port to draw a biological fluid (e.g., a mist) from a surgical site. The apparatus includes a sensor having a cantilevered beam. The beam includes substances selected to attract certain biomarkers as the fluid is communicated across the beam. The same apparatus or another apparatus is used to administer a therapeutic agent based at least in part on collected biomarker data. The therapeutic agent delivery apparatus may include a device that is also used to create a wound at a surgical site. For instance, a harmonic surgical instrument may be used to both collect biomarkers and administer a therapeutic agent (e.g., gene therapy using sonoporation). | 02-20-2014 |
20140163549 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH FEEDBACK AT END EFFECTOR - An apparatus for operating on tissue includes a body, a lip in communication with the body, and at least one electrode also in communication with the body. The body is able to mechanically couple with a portion of an end effector, which may be controlled by a user through a handpiece. The lip is configured to grip a portion of the end effector. The at least one electrode is configured to provide sufficient electrical energy to weld at least a portion of tissue. In some versions, a temperature sensitive material may be positioned on a portion of the end effector. Additionally, in some versions, the handpiece of the end effector may comprise feedback features able to convey information to the user. | 06-12-2014 |
20140243865 | INTERCHANGEABLE TOOLS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical tool system. Various embodiments of the surgical tool system may comprise surgical instrument that has a handle assembly that operably supports a drive system therein for generating drive motions upon actuation of a movable handle portion operably coupled to the handle assembly. An elongated body protrudes from the handle assembly and operably supports a control rod therein that interfaces with the drive system. The surgical tool system further includes at least two surgical tools selected from the group of surgical tools consisting of: manipulators, nippers, scissors, endocutters, tissue thickness measurement devices, staple appliers, clip appliers, syringes for applying glue, sealant, drugs or medicaments and cauterization devices wherein each of the surgical tool within the group of surgical tools at least has a housing that is removably couplable to the elongated body and a drive assembly that is removably couplable to the control rod for receiving the drive motions therefrom. | 08-28-2014 |
20140276970 | MECHANICAL FASTENERS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL ENERGY DEVICES - A surgical system comprises an end effector including an ultrasonic blade and a capturing arm, wherein the capturing arm is movable to capture tissue against the ultrasonic blade. In addition, the surgical system includes a transducer configured to generate ultrasonic energy for transmission to the ultrasonic blade and a clamping member removably coupled to the end effector, the clamping member configured to clamp the captured tissue. | 09-18-2014 |
20140330161 | INTERCHANGEABLE TOOLS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS - A surgical tool system. Various embodiments of the surgical tool system may comprise surgical instrument that has a handle assembly that operably supports a drive system therein for generating drive motions upon actuation of a movable handle portion operably coupled to the handle assembly. An elongated body protrudes from the handle assembly and operably supports a control rod therein that interfaces with the drive system. The surgical tool system further includes at least two surgical tools selected from the group of surgical tools consisting of: manipulators, nippers, scissors, endocutters, tissue thickness measurement devices, staple appliers, clip appliers, syringes for applying glue, sealant, drugs or medicaments and cauterization devices wherein each of the surgical tool within the group of surgical tools at least has a housing that is removably couplable to the elongated body and a drive assembly that is removably couplable to the control rod for receiving the drive motions therefrom. | 11-06-2014 |
20140371737 | SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH ARTICULATION INDICATOR - An apparatus for operating on tissue has a body, an elongate shaft, and an end effector. The elongate shaft extends distally from the body. The elongate shaft has an articulation section that is operable to selectively deflect the end effector laterally relative to the elongate shaft. The articulation section presents a first indication section and a second indication section. The first and second indication section may be configured to visually indicate the direction and degree of articulation of the articulation section. The first and second indication section may alternatively be configured to indicate the angular orientation of the end effector about the longitudinal axis. The body may further comprise a knob that is operable to rotate the shaft about the longitudinal axis. The knob may include a third indication section and a fourth indication section that align with the first and the second indication sections of the articulation section, respectively. | 12-18-2014 |
20150060521 | END EFFECTOR COUPLING ARRANGEMENTS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT - In various embodiments, a surgical stapling instrument can include a handle, a shaft extending from the handle, wherein the shaft defines an axis, and a disposable loading unit which is assembled to the shaft in a direction which is transverse to the shaft axis. Such a connection between the disposable loading unit and the shaft can prevent, or at least inhibit, the disposable loading unit from being unintentionally displaced proximally and/or distally relative to the shaft of the surgical instrument. The surgical stapling instrument and/or disposable loading unit can further include a threaded collar and/or detent assembly configured to hold the disposable loading unit in place. In various embodiments, a disposable loading unit can include a lockout feature which can prevent, or at least inhibit, an expended disposable loading unit from being reassembled to the elongated body of the surgical instrument. | 03-05-2015 |