Surgical Stapler That Adjusts for Different Tissue Thicknesses

This patent describes a surgical stapling instrument that can use different disposable cartridges, called reloads, to staple tissues of varying thicknesses by changing the gap between the stapler's jaws.

What it covers

The surgical instrument includes a long shaft and an end effector, which is the part that does the stapling. This end effector has a jaw and a special coupling member. This coupling member is designed to hold two different types of reloads, attaching them to the end effector. When the first reload is in place, the coupling member holds it so there's a specific 'tissue gap' between the jaw and the reload. When the second reload is used, the coupling member holds it to create a different, larger tissue gap. This design allows a surgeon to treat tissues of various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses using the same main instrument, simply by switching reloads.

What it doesn't cover

• —Does not cover surgical stapling instruments that only accept one type of reload with a fixed tissue gap.
• —Does not cover surgical stapling instruments where the tissue gap is adjusted by the instrument's internal mechanism, rather than by swapping different reloads.
• —Does not cover surgical instruments that do not use disposable reloads.
• —Does not cover surgical instruments that do not create a specific tissue gap, such as simple cutting or grasping tools.

The clever bit

The innovation lies in the 'coupling member' that specifically retains different reloads, each designed to create a distinct, predetermined tissue gap. This allows the same instrument to precisely handle varying tissue thicknesses without complex mechanical adjustments by the surgeon.

Why it matters

This technology simplifies surgical procedures by allowing a single stapling instrument to adapt to different patient anatomies and tissue types. Surgeons can quickly change reloads to match the tissue thickness, potentially reducing the number of instruments needed in an operating room. This versatility can lead to more efficient surgeries and better patient outcomes by ensuring the correct staple compression for various tissues.

Real-world examples

• 1.Ethicon Echelon Flex powered staplers
• 2.Medtronic Signia powered staplers
• 3.Most modern surgical stapling platforms with interchangeable cartridges