Fastener cartridge for creating a flexible staple line

[0001] The present invention relates to stapling instruments and, in various embodiments, to a surgical stapling instrument for producing one or more rows of staples.

[0002] A stapling instrument can include a pair of cooperating elongate jaw members, wherein each jaw member can be adapted to be inserted into a patient and positioned relative to tissue that is to be stapled and/or incised. In various embodiments, one of the jaw members can support a staple cartridge with at least two laterally spaced rows of staples contained therein, and the other jaw member can support an anvil with staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the staple cartridge. Generally, the stapling instrument can further include a pusher bar and a knife blade which are slidable relative to the jaw members to sequentially eject the staples from the staple cartridge via camming surfaces on the pusher bar and/or camming surfaces on a wedge sled that is pushed by the pusher bar. In at least one embodiment, the camming surfaces can be configured to activate a plurality of staple drivers carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples in order to push the staples against the anvil and form laterally spaced rows of deformed staples in the tissue gripped between the jaw members. In at least one embodiment, the knife blade can trail the camming surfaces and cut the tissue along a line between the staple rows. Examples of such stapling instruments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,794,475, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

[0096] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

[0097] Applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications which were filed on Sep. 26, 2014 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0098] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/498,070, entitled CIRCULAR FASTENER CARTRIDGES FOR APPLYING RADIALLY EXPANDABLE FASTENER LINES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0089146;

[0099] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/498,087, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE AND DRIVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR STAPLE CARTRIDGES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0089147;

[0100] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/498,105, entitled SURGICAL STAPLE AND DRIVER ARRANGEMENTS FOR STAPLE CARTRIDGES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0089148;

[0101] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/498,107, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING BUTTRESSES AND ADJUNCT MATERIALS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0089143; and

[0102] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/498,145, entitled METHOD FOR CREATING A FLEXIBLE STAPLE LINE, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0089142.

[0103] Applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications which were filed on Jun. 30, 2014 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0104] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,996, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGES INCLUDING EXTENSIONS HAVING DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297228;

[0105] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,006, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING FASTENER CAVITIES INCLUDING FASTENER CONTROL FEATURES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297231;

[0106] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,014, entitled END EFFECTOR COMPRISING AN ANVIL INCLUDING PROJECTIONS EXTENDING THEREFROM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297234;

[0107] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,991, entitled SURGICAL FASTENER CARTRIDGES WITH DRIVER STABILIZING ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297217;

[0108] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,004, entitled SURGICAL END EFFECTORS WITH FIRING ELEMENT MONITORING ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297217;

[0109] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,008, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING NON-UNIFORM FASTENERS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297232;

[0110] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/318,997, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING DEPLOYABLE TISSUE ENGAGING MEMBERS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297229;

[0111] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,002, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE COMPRISING TISSUE CONTROL FEATURES, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297230;

[0112] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,013, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE ASSEMBLIES AND STAPLE RETAINER COVER ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297233; and

[0113] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/319,016, entitled FASTENER CARTRIDGE INCLUDING A LAYER ATTACHED THERETO, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015/0297235.

[0114] Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It will be understood by those skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such specific details. In other instances, well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0115] The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

[0116] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” referring to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” referring to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

[0117] A surgical fastening instrument 100 is depicted in FIG. 1. The surgical fastening instrument 100 is configured to deploy an expandable staple line. Various expandable staple lines are disclosed herein and the surgical fastening instrument 100 is capable of deploying any one of these expandable staple lines. Moreover, surgical instruments other than the surgical fastening instrument 100 are capable of deploying any one of the expandable staple lines disclosed herein.

[0118] The surgical fastening instrument 100 comprises a handle 110, a shaft 120, and an end effector 200. The handle 110 comprises a pistol grip 140, a closure trigger 150 configured to operate a closure system, a firing trigger 160 configured to operate a firing system, and an articulation actuator 170 configured to operate an articulation system for articulating the end effector 200 relative to the shaft 120. The disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,537, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES, which issued on Dec. 7, 2010, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Other embodiments are envisioned which comprise a single trigger configured to operate a closure system and a firing system. Various embodiments are envisioned in which the end effector of the surgical instrument is not articulatable. The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/974,166, entitled FIRING MEMBER RETRACTION DEVICES FOR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, which was filed on Aug. 23, 2013, is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0119] The closure trigger 150 is rotatable toward the pistol grip 140 to actuate the closure system. Referring primarily to FIG. 2, the closure system comprises a closure tube 122 which is advanced distally when the closure trigger 150 is moved toward the pistol grip 140. The closure tube 122 is engaged with a first jaw including an anvil 220 of the end effector 200. In at least one instance, the anvil 220 comprises one or more projections 228 extending therefrom which are positioned in one or more elongated slots 212 defined in a second jaw. The projections 228 and the elongated slots 212 are structured and arranged to permit the anvil 220 to be rotated between an open position and a closed position relative to a stationary, or fixed, cartridge channel 210 of the second jaw. In various alternative embodiments, a cartridge channel can be rotatable relative to a stationary, or fixed, anvil 220. Regardless of whether the cartridge channel or the anvil of an end effector is fixed, the end effector may be articulatable or non-articulatable relative to the shaft.

[0120] Referring again to FIG. 2, the anvil 220 includes a tab 226 which is engaged with a slot 124 defined in the closure tube 122. When the closure tube 122 is moved distally by the closure trigger 150, a sidewall of the slot 124 can engage the tab 226 and rotate the anvil 220 toward the cartridge channel 210. When the closure tube 122 is moved proximally, another sidewall of the slot 124 can engage the tab 226 and rotate the anvil 220 away from the cartridge channel 210. In some instances, a biasing spring can be positioned intermediate the anvil 220 and the cartridge channel 210 which can be configured to bias the anvil 220 away from the cartridge channel 210.

[0121] Referring again to FIG. 2, the firing trigger 160 is rotatable toward the pistol grip 140 to actuate the firing system. The firing system comprises a firing member extending within the shaft 120. The firing system further comprises a sled 250 which is operably engaged with the firing member. When the firing trigger 160 is rotated toward the pistol grip 140, the firing trigger 160 drives the firing member and the sled 250 distally within the end effector 200. The end effector 200 further comprises a staple cartridge 230 positioned within the cartridge channel 210. The staple cartridge 230 is replaceable and, thus, removable from the cartridge channel 210; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the staple cartridge 230 is not readily replaceable and/or removable from the cartridge channel 210.

[0122] The staple cartridge 230 comprises a plurality of staple cavities 270. Each staple cavity 270 is configured to removably store a staple therein, although it is possible that some staple cavities 270 may not contain a staple stored therein. The staple cartridge 230 further comprises a plurality of staple drivers 240 movably positioned therein. Each driver 240 is configured to support three staples and/or lift the three staples out of their respective staple cavities 270 at the same time, or concurrently. Although each driver 240 of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-4 deploys three staples concurrently, other embodiments are envisioned in which a driver may deploy less than three staples or more than three staples concurrently. The sled 250 comprises one or more ramp surfaces 252 which are configured to slide under the drivers 240 and lift the drivers 240 upwardly toward a deck surface 233 of the staple cartridge 230. The sled 250 is movable from a proximal end 231 of the staple cartridge 230 toward a distal end 232 to sequentially lift the drivers 240. When the drivers 240 are lifted toward the deck by the sled 250, the drivers 240 lift the staples toward the anvil 220. As the sled 250 is progressed distally, the staples are driven against the anvil 220 and are ejected from the staple cavities 270 by the drivers 240. The staple cartridge 230 can further comprise a support pan 260 attached thereto which extends around the bottom of the staple cartridge 230 and retains the drivers 240, the staples, and/or the sled 250 within the cartridge 230.

[0123] The sled 250 and/or the pusher member which advances the sled 250 distally can be configured to engage the first jaw including the anvil 220 and/or the second jaw including the staple cartridge 230 and position the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230 relative to one another. In at least one instance, the sled 250 comprises at least one first projection 256 extending therefrom which is configured to engage the anvil 220 and at least one second projection 258 configured to engage the cartridge channel 210. The projections 256 and 258 can position the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230 relative to one another. As the sled 250 is advanced distally, the projections 256 and 258 can position the anvil 220 and set the tissue gap between the anvil 220 and the deck 233.

[0124] The end effector 200 can further comprise a cutting member configured to incise tissue captured between the staple cartridge 230 and the anvil 220. Referring again to FIG. 2, the sled 250 includes a knife 254; however, any suitable cutting member could be utilized. As the sled 250 is being advanced distally to deploy the staples from the staple cavities 270, the knife 254 is moved distally to transect the tissue. In certain alternative embodiments, the firing member which pushes the sled 250 distally can include a cutting member. The cartridge 230 includes a longitudinal slot 234 configured to at least partially receive the knife 254. The anvil 220 also includes a longitudinal slot configured to at least partially receive the knife 254; however, embodiments are envisioned in which only one of the cartridge 230 and the anvil 220 includes a slot configured to receive a cutting member.

[0125] Further to the above, referring primarily to FIG. 1, the handle 110 of the surgical instrument 100 comprises an articulation actuator 170 which, when actuated, can articulate the end effector 200 about an articulation joint 180. When the actuator 170 is pushed in a first direction, the end effector 200 can be rotated in a first direction and, when the actuator 170 is pushed in a second direction, the end effector 200 can be rotated in a second, or opposite, direction. Referring now to FIG. 2, the end effector 200 includes an articulation lock plate 182 mounted to the proximal end thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock plate 182 is mounted to the cartridge channel 210 via a pin 184 which extends through apertures 214 defined in the cartridge channel 210 and the lock plate 182. The shaft 120 can further include a lock movable between a first, engaged, position in which the lock is engaged with the lock plate 182 and a second, or disengaged, position in which the lock is disengaged from the lock plate. When the lock is in its engaged position, the lock can hold the end effector 200 in position. When the lock is in its disengaged position, the end effector 200 can be rotated about the articulation joint 180. The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/314,788, entitled ROBOTICALLY-CONTROLLED SHAFT BASED ROTARY DRIVE SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, which was filed on Jun. 25, 2014, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0168435, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, which was filed on Feb. 26, 2013, is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0126] Turning now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the staple cavities 270 of the staple cartridge 200 can be positioned and arranged such that the staples stored in the staple cavities are deployed as part of an extensible staple line. The staple cavities 270 are arranged in a staple cavity array. The staple cavity array comprises a first row of staple cavities 270a which removably stores a first row of staples. The first row of staple cavities 270a extends along a first longitudinal axis 272a adjacent the longitudinal slot 234. The staple cavity array comprises a second row of staple cavities 270b which removably stores a second row of staples. The second row of staple cavities 270b extends along a second longitudinal axis 272b adjacent the first row of staple cavities 270a. The staple cavity array comprises a third row of staple cavities 270c which removably stores a third row of staples. The third row of staple cavities 270c extends along the second row of staple cavities 270b.

[0127] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the first longitudinal axis 272a is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the second longitudinal axis 272b; however, other arrangements are possible in which the first longitudinal axis 272a is not parallel to the second longitudinal axis 272b. The second longitudinal axis 272b is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the third longitudinal axis 272c; however, other arrangements are possible in which the second longitudinal axis 272b is not parallel to the third longitudinal axis 272c. The first longitudinal axis 272a is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the third longitudinal axis 272c; however, other arrangements are possible in which the first longitudinal axis 272a is not parallel to the third longitudinal axis 272c.

[0128] Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 4, the staple cartridge 230 comprises a first portion of the staple cavity array including a first row 270a, a second row 270b, and a third row 270c on a first side of the longitudinal slot 234 and a second portion of the cavity array including a first row 270a, a second row 270b, and a third row 270c on a second side of the longitudinal slot 234. The first cavity array portion is a mirror image of the second cavity array portion with respect to the longitudinal slot; however, other arrangements may be utilized.

[0129] The staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy the staple array depicted in FIG. 52A. The staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy a first row of staples 280a along a first longitudinal axis 282a, a second row of staples 280b along a second longitudinal axis 282b, and a third row of staples 280c along a third longitudinal axis 282c. In various instances, the staple cartridge 230 is configured to deploy a first row of staples 280a, a second row of staples 280b, and a third row of staples 280c on a first side of a longitudinal incision 284 and a first row of staples 280a, a second row of staples 280b, and a third row of staples 280c on a second side of the longitudinal incision 284. The first rows of staples 280a can be positioned adjacent the longitudinal incision 284 and the third row of staples 280c can be positioned furthest away from the longitudinal incision 284. Each second row of staples 280b can be positioned intermediate a first row of staples 280a and a third row of staples 280c.

[0130] Further to the above, the first staples 280a are removably stored in the first staple cavities 270a, the second staples 280b are removably stored in the second staple cavities 270b, and the third staples 280c are removably stored in the third staple cavities 270c. The staple cavities 270a-270c are configured and arranged to deploy the staples 280a-280c in the arrangement depicted in FIG. 52A. The first staples 280a are oriented at a first angle 274a with respect to the longitudinal axis 282a. The second staples 280b are oriented at a second angle 274b with respect to a longitudinal axis 282b. The third staples 280c are oriented at a third angle 274c with respect to the longitudinal axis 282c. The first angle 274a is different than the second angle 274b; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 274a and the second angle 274b can be the same. The third angle 274c is different than the second angle 274b; however, in other embodiments, the third angle 274c and the second angle 274b can be the same. The first angle 274a is the same as the third angle 274c; however, in other embodiments, the first angle 274a and the third angle 274c can be different.

[0131] Further to the above, the first angle 274a can be measured with respect to the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second angle 274b can be measured with respect to the second longitudinal axis 282b, and the third angle 274c can be measured with respect to the third longitudinal axis 282c. When the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c are parallel to one another, the first angle 274a, the second angle 274b, and/or the third angle 274c can be measured with respect to any one of the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and the third longitudinal axis 282c. When the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c are parallel to the longitudinal slot 234, the first angle 274a, the second angle 274b, and/or the third angle 274c can be measured with respect to the longitudinal slot 234. Correspondingly, when the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c are parallel to the tissue transection 284, the first angle 274a, the second angle 274b, and/or the third angle 274c can be measured with respect to the tissue transection 284.

[0132] The first staples 280a, the second staples 280b, and the third staples 280c can be positioned and arranged such that they provide laterally-overlapping staple lines. More particularly, referring again to FIG. 52A, the longitudinal row of second staples 280b is positioned laterally with respect to the longitudinal row of first staples 280a such that the second staples 280b are aligned with the gaps between the first staples 280a and, similarly, the longitudinal row of third staples 280c is positioned laterally with respect to the longitudinal row of second staples 280b such that the third staples 280c are aligned with the gaps between the second staples 280b. Such an arrangement can limit the flow of blood from the tissue T to the transection 284.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, each first staple 280a comprises a distal leg 283a which is distal with respect to a distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b and, in addition, a proximal leg 285a which is proximal with respect to the distal leg 283b. Similarly, each third staple 280c comprises a distal leg 283c which is distal with respect to the distal leg 283b of the adjacent second staple 280b and, in addition, a proximal leg 285c which is proximal with respect to the distal leg 283b. The second staple 280b adjacent the first staple 280a and the third staple 280c mentioned above comprises a proximal leg 285b which is proximal with respect to the proximal leg 285a of the first staple 280a and the proximal leg 285c of the third staple 280c. This is but one exemplary embodiment and any suitable arrangement could be utilized.

[0134] Further to the above, the first staples 280a straddle the first longitudinal axis 282a. The distal legs 283a of the first staples 280a are positioned on one side of the first longitudinal axis 282a and the proximal legs 285a are positioned on the other side of the first longitudinal axis 282a. Stated another way, the legs of the first staples 280a are offset with respect to the first longitudinal axis 282a. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the first staples 280a are aligned with or collinear with the first longitudinal axis 282a.

[0135] The second staples 280b straddle the second longitudinal axis 282b. The distal legs 283b of the second staples 280b are positioned on one side of the second longitudinal axis 282b and the proximal legs 285b are positioned on the other side of the second longitudinal axis 282b. Stated another way, the legs of the second staples 280b are offset with respect to the second longitudinal axis 282b. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the second staples 280b are aligned with or collinear with the second longitudinal axis 282b.

[0136] The third staples 280c straddle the third longitudinal axis 282c. The distal legs 283c of the third staples 280c are positioned on one side of the third longitudinal axis 282c and the proximal legs 285c are positioned on the other side of the third longitudinal axis 282c. Stated another way, the legs of the third staples 280c are offset with respect to the third longitudinal axis 282c. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the third staples 280c are aligned with or collinear with the third longitudinal axis 282c.

[0137] In certain embodiments, a first staple 280a can comprise a proximal leg 285a which is aligned with the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b. Similarly, a third staple 280c can comprise a proximal leg 285c which is aligned with the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b. In various embodiments, a first staple 280a can comprise a proximal leg 285a which is positioned distally with respect to the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b. Similarly, a third staple 280c can comprise a proximal leg 285c which is positioned distally with respect to the distal leg 283b of an adjacent second staple 280b.

[0138] The row of second staples 280b is bounded by the row of first staples 280a and the row of third staples 280c. A second staple 280b is bounded on one side by a first staple 280a and on the other side by a third staple 280c. More particularly, a first staple 280a is positioned laterally inwardly with respect to the proximal leg 285b of a second staple 280b and, similarly, a third staple 280c is positioned laterally outwardly with respect to the distal leg 283b of the second staple 280b. As a result, the first staples 280a can provide a boundary on one side of the second staples 280b and the third staples 280b can provide a boundary on the other side of the second staples 280b.

[0139] A traditional staple array is illustrated in FIG. 52. This staple array comprises a first row of staples 380a positioned along a first longitudinal axis 382a, a second row of staples 380b positioned along a second longitudinal axis 382b, and a third row of staples 380c positioned along a third longitudinal axis 382c positioned on a first side of an incision 384 in the tissue T. The staples 380a are aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the first longitudinal axis 382a; the staples 380b are aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the second longitudinal axis 382b; and the staples 380c are aligned, or at least substantially aligned, with the third longitudinal axis 382c. Stated another way, the first staples 380a are not oriented at an angle with respect to the first longitudinal axis 382a, the second staples 380b are not oriented at an angle with respect to the second longitudinal axis 382b, and the third staples 380c are not oriented at an angle with respect to the third longitudinal axis 382c. This staple array also comprises a first row of staples 380a positioned along a first longitudinal axis 382a, a second row of staples 380b positioned along a second longitudinal axis 382b, and a third row of staples 380c positioned along a third longitudinal axis 382c positioned on a second, or opposite, side of the incision 384.

[0140] When a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T stapled by the staple array illustrated in FIG. 52, the tissue will stretch longitudinally. Moreover, in various instances, the staples 380a, 380b, and 380c can translate longitudinally as the tissue is stretched longitudinally. Such an arrangement can be suitable in many circumstances; however, the staples 380a, 380b, and 380c can restrict the stretching and/or movement of the tissue. In some instances, the tissue that has been stapled by the staples 380a, 380b, and 380c may be far less flexible than the adjacent tissue that has not been stapled. Stated another way, the staple array comprising the staples 380a, 380b, and 380c can create a sudden change in the material properties of the tissue. In at least one instance, a large strain gradient can be created within the tissue as a result of the staple array which, in turn, can create a large stress gradient within the tissue.

[0141] When the staples 380a-380c are ejected from the staple cartridge, the legs of the staples can puncture the tissue T. As a result, the staple legs create holes in the tissue. Various types of tissue are resilient and can stretch around the staple legs as the staple legs pass through the tissue. In various instances, the resiliency of the tissue can permit the tissue to stretch and resiliently return toward the staple legs to reduce or eliminate gaps present between the tissue and the staple legs. Such resiliency can also permit the tissue to stretch when a stretching force is applied to the tissue; however, such resiliency can be inhibited by certain staple patterns. In at least one instance, the staple pattern depicted in FIG. 52 can inhibit the longitudinal stretching of the tissue. When a longitudinal stretching force is applied to the tissue stapled by the staple pattern of FIG. 52, the tissue may begin to pull away from the staple legs and create gaps therebetween. In some instances, especially in bariatric resection applications, such gaps can result in increased bleeding from the stomach tissue. In certain instances, especially in lung resection applications, air leaks can result in the lung tissue.

[0142] The staple array depicted in FIG. 52A is more flexible than the staple array depicted in FIG. 52. When a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T, referring now to FIG. 52B, the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c can, one, translate longitudinally as the tissue is stretched longitudinally and/or, two, rotate as the tissue is stretched longitudinally. The compliant staple array depicted in FIG. 52 can create significant extensibility along the staple lines, such as in the longitudinal direction defined by the staple lines, for example. Such longitudinal extensibility can reduce the stress and/or strain gradient within the stapled tissue T and/or the tissue T surrounding the stapled tissue T. Moreover, the compliant staple array depicted in FIG. 52A can reduce or eliminate the gaps between the staple legs and the tissue T when a longitudinal stretching force is applied to the tissue and, as a result, reduce the bleeding and/or air leaks between the staple legs and the tissue.

[0143] With regard to the longitudinal translation of the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c, the first staples 280a can move along the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second staples 280b can move along the second longitudinal axis 282b, and the third staples 280c can move along the third longitudinal axis 282c. When the first staples 280a move along the first longitudinal axis 282a, the first staples 280a can spread out across the first longitudinal axis 282a. Stated another way, the distance between the first staples 280a, or gap distance, can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along, and/or parallel to, the first longitudinal axis 282a. Similarly, the second staples 280b can spread out across the second longitudinal axis 282b when the second staples 280b move along the second longitudinal axis 282b. The distance between the second staples 280b, or gap distance, can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along, and/or parallel to, the second longitudinal axis 282b. Also, similarly, the third staples 280c can spread out across the third longitudinal axis 282c when the third staples 280c move along the third longitudinal axis 282c. The distance between the third staples 280c, or gap distance, can increase when a longitudinal force is applied to the tissue along, and/or parallel to, the third longitudinal axis 282c.

[0144] As discussed above, the staples 280a, 280b, and/or 280c can move with the tissue T when the tissue T is stretched. When the tissue T is pulled longitudinally, further to the above, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c can remain parallel to one another. In some instances, the orientation of the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c can become non-parallel, such as when a transverse force, i.e., a force which is transverse to the longitudinal force, is applied to the tissue T, for example. In certain instances, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c can move closer to each other when the tissue T is pulled longitudinally. Such movement can be the result of transverse contraction that occurs within the tissue T when a longitudinal stretching force is applied to the tissue T. In some instances, the first longitudinal axis 282a, the second longitudinal axis 282b, and/or the third longitudinal axis 282c can move away from each other, such as when a transverse force is applied to the tissue T, for example.

[0145] With regard to the rotational movement of the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c, the first staples 280a can rotate with respect to the first longitudinal axis 282a when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. Each first staple 280a can rotate between an initial first angle 274a and another first angle 274a when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each first staple 280a can rotate between an initial orientation in which the first staple 280a extends in a transverse direction to the first longitudinal axis 282a and another orientation which is closer to being aligned with the first longitudinal axis 282a. In some instances, the application of a longitudinal tensile force to the tissue T can cause the first staples 280a to rotate into an orientation which is collinear with the first longitudinal axis 282a. In various instances, each first staple 280a can rotate about an axis extending through the first longitudinal axis 282a.

[0146] As discussed above, a first staple 280a can rotate between an initial first angle 274a and another first angle 274a when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274a can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274a can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274a can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, first angle 274a can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0147] In various instances, the stretched first angle 274a can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the stretched first angle 274a can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched first angle 274a can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched first angle 274a can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0148] In various instances, the difference between the unstretched first angle 274a and the stretched first angle 274a can be between approximately 1 degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched first angle 274a and the stretched first angle 274a can be approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, and/or approximately 5 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched first angle 274a and the stretched first angle 274a can be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, and/or approximately 25 degrees, for example.

[0149] Further to the above, the second staples 280b can rotate with respect to the second longitudinal axis 282b when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. Each second staple 280b can rotate between an initial second angle 274b and another second angle 274b when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each second staple 280b can rotate between an initial orientation in which the second staple 280b extends in a transverse direction to the second longitudinal axis 282b and another orientation which is closer to being aligned with the second longitudinal axis 282b. In some instances, the application of a longitudinal tensile force to the tissue T can cause the second staples 280b to rotate into an orientation which is collinear with the second longitudinal axis 282b. In various instances, each second staple 280b can rotate about an axis aligned with and/or extending through the second longitudinal axis 282b.

[0150] As discussed above, a second staple 280b can rotate between an initial second angle 274b and another second angle 274b when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274b can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274b can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274b can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, second angle 274b can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0151] In various instances, the stretched second angle 274b can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the stretched second angle 274b can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched second angle 274b can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched second angle 274b can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0152] In various instances, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b can be between approximately 1 degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b can be approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, and/or approximately 5 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched second angle 274b and the stretched second angle 274b can be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, and/or approximately 25 degrees, for example.

[0153] Further to the above, the third staples 280c can rotate with respect to the third longitudinal axis 282c when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. Each third staple 280c can rotate between an initial third angle 274c and another third angle 274c when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In at least one instance, each third staple 280c can rotate between an initial orientation in which the third staple 280c extends in a transverse direction to the third longitudinal axis 282c and another orientation which is closer to being aligned with the third longitudinal axis 282c. In some instances, the application of a longitudinal tensile force to the tissue T can cause the third staples 280c to rotate into an orientation which is collinear with the third longitudinal axis 282c. In various instances, each third staple 280c can rotate about an axis aligned with and/or extending through the third longitudinal axis 282c.

[0154] As discussed above, a third staple 280c can rotate between an initial third angle 274c and another third angle 274c when a longitudinal tensile force is applied to the tissue T. In various embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274c can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain embodiments, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274c can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274c can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one embodiment, the initial, or unstretched, third angle 274c can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0155] In various instances, the stretched third angle 274c can be between approximately 5 degrees and approximately 85 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the stretched third angle 274c can be between approximately 30 degrees and approximately 60 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched third angle 274c can be approximately 45 degrees, for example. In at least one instance, the stretched third angle 274c can be approximately 10 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, approximately 30 degrees, approximately 40 degrees, approximately 50 degrees, approximately 60 degrees, approximately 70 degrees, and/or approximately 80 degrees, for example.

[0156] In various instances, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c can be between approximately 1 degree and approximately 45 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c can be approximately 1 degree, approximately 2 degrees, approximately 3 degrees, approximately 4 degrees, and/or approximately 5 degrees, for example. In certain instances, the difference between the unstretched third angle 274c and the stretched third angle 274c can be approximately 5 degrees, approximately 10 degrees, approximately 15 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, and/or approximately 25 degrees, for example.

[0157] In various instances, the first staples 280a in the first row of staples can rotate a first amount and the second staples 280b in the second row of staples can rotate a second amount which is different than the first amount. The first amount can be less than or more than the second amount. In various instances, the first staples 280a in the first row of staples can rotate a first amount and the third staples 280c in the third row of staples can rotate a third amount which is different than the first amount. The first amount can be less than or more than the third amount. In various instances, the third staples 280c in the third row of staples can rotate a third amount and the second staples 280b in the second row of staples can rotate a second amount which is different than the third amount. The third amount can be less than or more than the second amount.

[0158] In at least one application, it may be desirable for the innermost rows of staples, i.e., the row of staples closest to the incision, to be more inflexible, or inextensible, than the other rows of staples. It may also be desirable for the outermost rows of staples, i.e., the row of staples furthest away from the incision, to be more flexible, or extensible, than the other rows of staples. When the angle between the first staple axes and the first longitudinal axis is smaller than the angle between the second staple axes and the second longitudinal axis, the first staples may have less room to rotate toward the first longitudinal axis than the second staples have to rotate toward the second longitudinal axis and, thus, may stiffen the tissue more than the second staples. Similarly, when the angle between the second staple axes and the second longitudinal axis is smaller than the angle between the third staple axes and the third longitudinal axis, the second staples may have less room to rotate toward the second longitudinal axis than the third staples have to rotate toward the third longitudinal axis and, thus, may stiffen the tissue more than the third staples

[0159] Further to the above, the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A comprises six longitudinal rows of staples. Other embodiments are envisioned which comprise less than six rows of staples, such as four rows of staples, for example, or more than six rows of staples, such as eight rows of staples, for example.

[0160] The first staples 280a, the second staples 280b, and the third staples 280c can comprise any suitable configuration such as, for example, a V-shaped configuration or a U-shaped configuration. A staple comprising a V-shaped configuration can include a base, a first leg extending from a first end of the base, and a second leg extending from a second end of the base, wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directions which are non-parallel to one another. A staple comprising a U-shaped configuration can include a base, a first leg extending from a first end of the base, and a second leg extending from a second end of the base, wherein the first leg and the second leg extend in directions which are parallel to one another.

[0161] With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example, each first staple 280a comprises a proximal staple leg 285a and a distal staple leg 283a. A staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A can include a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285a can be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than the distal staple leg 283a and, similarly, the distal staple leg 283a can be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximal staple leg 285a. The base of each first staple 280a can define a first base axis. The proximal staple leg 285a and the distal staple leg 283a can extend from the first base axis. The first staples 280a can be positioned and arranged such that the first base axes extend toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the distal end of the staple cartridge.

[0162] With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example, each second staple 280b comprises a proximal staple leg 285b and a distal staple leg 283b. As discussed above, a staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A can include a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285b can be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than the distal staple leg 283b and, similarly, the distal staple leg 283b can be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximal staple leg 285b. The base of each second staple 280b can define a second base axis. The proximal staple leg 285b and the distal staple leg 283b can extend from the second base axis. The second staples 280b can be positioned and arranged such that the second base axes extend toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge.

[0163] With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example, each third staple 280c comprises a proximal staple leg 285c and a distal staple leg 283c. As discussed above, a staple cartridge configured to deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A can include a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal staple leg 285c can be closer to the proximal end of the staple cartridge than the distal staple leg 283c and, similarly, the distal staple leg 283c can be closer to the distal end of the staple cartridge than the proximal staple leg 285c. The base of each third staple 280c can define a third base axis. The proximal staple leg 285c and the distal staple leg 283c can extend from the third base axis. The third staples 280c can be positioned and arranged such that the third base axes extend toward the longitudinal cut line 284 and toward the distal end of the staple cartridge.

[0164] With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A, for example, the first staples 280a can be aligned with the third staples 280c. The proximal staple leg 285a of a first staple 280a can be aligned with the proximal staple leg 285c of a third staple 280c. When the proximal staple leg 285a is aligned with the proximal staple leg 285c, the proximal staple leg 285a and the proximal leg 285c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284. The distal staple leg 283a of the first staple 280a can be aligned with the distal staple leg 283c of the third staple 280c. When the distal staple leg 283a is aligned with the distal staple leg 283c, the distal staple leg 283a and the distal staple leg 283c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284. In such circumstances, the third staple 280c can seal the tissue in the event that the first staple 280a is malformed. Similarly, the first staple 280a can hold the tissue together in the event that the third staple 280c is malformed. In other embodiments, the first staples 280a may not be aligned with the third staples 280c.

[0165] Further to the above, the first staples 280a can be aligned with the third staples 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched condition. When the staple pattern is stretched longitudinally, the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c can translate and/or rotate. In various circumstances, the first staples 280a can remain aligned with the third staples 280c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. In other circumstances, the first staples 280a may not remain aligned with the third staples 280c.

[0166] With regard to the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 52A once again, the distal staple leg 283b of a second staple 280b can be aligned with the proximal staple leg 285a of a first staple 280a and/or the proximal leg 285c of a third staple 280c. The distal staple leg 283b of the second staple 280b, the proximal staple leg 285a of the first staple 280a, and/or the proximal staple leg 285c of the third staple 280c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284. The proximal staple leg 285b of a second staple 280b can be aligned with the distal staple leg 283a of a first staple 280a and/or the distal staple leg 283c of a third staple 280c. The proximal staple leg 285b of the second staple 280b, the distal staple leg 283a of the first staple 280a, and/or the distal staple leg 283c of the third staple 280c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284.

[0167] Further to the above, the staple legs of the second staples 280b can be aligned with the staple legs of the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched condition. When the staple pattern is stretched longitudinally, the first staples 280a, the second staples 280b, and/or the third staples 280c can translate and/or rotate. In various circumstances, the legs of the second staples 280b may not remain aligned with the legs of the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. In other circumstances, the legs of the second staples 280b can remain aligned with the legs of the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally.

[0168] In various embodiments, a staple pattern can be arranged such that the staples in one longitudinal staple row overlap with the staples in another longitudinal staple row. For instance, the distal staple leg 283b of a second staple 280b can be positioned distally with respect to the proximal staple leg 285a of a first staple 280a and/or the proximal leg 285c of a third staple 280c. For instance, the proximal staple leg 285b of a second staple 280b can be positioned proximally with the distal staple leg 283a of a first staple 280a and/or the distal staple leg 283c of a third staple 280c. The proximal staple leg 285b of the second staple 280b, the distal staple leg 283a of the first staple 280a, and/or the distal staple leg 283c of the third staple 280c can be positioned along an axis which is perpendicular to the cut line 284.

[0169] As discussed above, the second staples 280b can overlap with the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the staple pattern is in an unstretched condition. When the staple pattern is stretched longitudinally, the first staples 280a, the second staples 280b, and/or the third staples 280c can translate and/or rotate. In various circumstances, the second staples 280b can remain overlapped with the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. In some circumstances, the second staples 280b may no longer be overlapped with the first staples 280a and/or the third staples 280c when the tissue is stretched longitudinally.

[0170] The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 52A is depicted in an unstretched condition. When the tissue stapled by the staple pattern depicted in FIG. 52A is stretched longitudinally, the staples can move longitudinally with the tissue and/or rotate within the tissue, as illustrated in FIG. 52B. Such movement is also illustrated in FIG. 24.

[0171] The surgical instrument 100 is configured to be used during a laparoscopic surgical procedure. The end effector 200 and the shaft 120 are sized and dimensioned to be inserted through a trocar, or cannula, into a patient. The trocar can comprise an inner passage comprising an inner diameter. In some instances, the inner diameter can be approximately 5 mm or approximately 12 mm, for example. The end effector 200 is a linear end effector that applies staples along straight lines. Other surgical instruments are envisioned which apply staples along at least partially curved lines, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,827,133, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR A FLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM, which issued on Sep. 9, 2014, for example. The entire disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 8,827,133, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICE HAVING SUPPORTS FOR A FLEXIBLE DRIVE MECHANISM, which issued on Sep. 9, 2014, is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Such surgical instruments could be adapted to apply curved expandable staple lines utilizing the principles disclosed herein. While the surgical instrument 100 is adapted to be used during laparoscopic surgical procedures, the surgical instrument 100 could be utilized during an open surgical procedure where the surgical instrument 100 is inserted through a large incision in the patient. Moreover, the expandable staple lines disclosed herein could be applied by an open surgical stapler, such as those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0042205, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which was filed on Oct. 21, 2013, for example. The disclosure of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0042205, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, which was filed on Oct. 21, 2013, is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

[0172] Turning now to FIG. 4, the anvil 220 includes an array of forming pockets 290a, 290b, and 290c defined therein configured to deform the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c, respectively. The first forming pockets 290a are positioned along a first longitudinal axis 292a, the second longitudinal pockets 290b are positioned along a second longitudinal axis 292b, and the third forming pockets 290c are positioned along a third longitudinal axis 292c. The longitudinal axes 292a, 292b, and 292c are parallel and extend between a proximal end 221 and a distal end 222 of the anvil 220. The anvil 220 further comprises a longitudinal slot 224 defined therein configured to receive at least a portion of a firing member. In at least one instance, the firing member includes a cutting portion that extends between the anvil 220 and the staple cartridge 230. The anvil 220 comprises a row of first forming pockets 290a, a row of second forming pockets 290b, and a row of third forming pockets 290c on one side of the longitudinal slot 224 and another row of first forming pockets 290a, row of second forming pockets 290b, and row of third forming pockets 290c on the other side of the longitudinal slot 224. As the reader will appreciate, the forming pockets 290a, 290b, and 290c are aligned with and correspond to the staple cavities 270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively, defined in the staple cartridge 230.

[0173] The forming pockets 290a, 290b, and 290c are configured to deform the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c into a B-shaped configuration, for example. In various instances, the forming pockets 290a, 290b, and 290c are configured to deform U-shaped staples and/or V-shaped staples, for example, into such a B-shaped configuration. Each forming pocket 290a, 290b, and 290c comprises a proximal end configured to receive a proximal leg of a staple and a distal end configured to receive the distal leg of the staple. That said, any suitable anvil can be utilized to form the staples ejected from a staple cartridge into any suitable shape. Each forming pocket 290a, 290b, and 290c can comprise a groove extending between the proximal end and the distal end thereof. The groove can include sidewalls configured to deform a staple within a plane and prevent, or at least limit, the movement of the staple legs out of that plane as the staple legs are deformed.

[0174] Turning now to FIG. 5, an anvil 320 comprises an array of forming pockets 390a, 390b, and 390c defined therein. Similar to the above, a plurality of first forming pockets 390a are arranged along a first longitudinal axis, a plurality of second forming pockets 390b are arranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a plurality of third forming pockets 390c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Each forming pocket 390a, 390b, and 390c includes a proximal forming pocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each first forming pocket 390a includes a proximal end 393a configured to receive a proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 395a configured to receive a distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 390b includes a proximal end 393b configured to receive a proximal leg of a second staple and a distal end 395b configured to receive a distal leg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 390c includes a proximal end 393c configured to receive a proximal leg of a third staple and a distal end 395c configured to receive a distal leg of the third staple.

[0175] The proximal ends 393a, 393b, and 393c and the distal ends 395a, 395b, and 395c can comprise any suitable configuration. Referring again to FIG. 5, the proximal ends 393a, 393b, and 393c and the distal ends 395a, 395b, and 395c each comprise an enlarged cup. The enlarged cups are wider than a groove 397 defined therebetween. In certain instances, the enlarged cups and the groove extending therebetween can comprise an hourglass shape, for example. When the legs of a staple enter such a forming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cups and, as the staple legs are deformed, the enlarged cups can guide the staple legs into the groove 397. Each enlarged cup can include curved and/or angled sidewalls which can be configured to guide a staple leg toward the groove 397. The enlarged cups can, in certain instances, adjust the orientation of a misaligned staple leg.

[0176] The staple forming pockets 390a, 390b, and 390c are nested. For instance, the distal enlarged cup 395b of a second forming pocket 390b is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393c, 395c of an adjacent third staple forming pocket 390c and, additionally, the proximal enlarged cup 393b of a second forming pocket 390b is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393a, 395a of an adjacent first forming pocket 390a. Also, for instance, the proximal enlarged cup 393a of a first forming pocket 390a is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393b, 395b of an adjacent second forming pocket 390b. Additional, for instance, the distal enlarged cup 395c of a third forming pocket 390c is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 393b, 395b of an adjacent second forming pocket 390b. The enlarged forming cups of each staple cavity can define a rectangular perimeter within which the entire forming pocket can be positioned. As a result of the nesting arrangement described above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavity can overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. For instance, the rectangular perimeter of a second forming cavity 390b can overlap the rectangular perimeter of a first forming cavity 390a and/or the rectangular perimeter of a third forming cavity 390c.

[0177] Turning now to FIG. 6, an anvil 420 comprises an array of forming pockets 490a, 490b, and 490c defined therein. Similar to the above, a plurality of first forming pockets 490a are arranged along a first longitudinal axis, a plurality of second forming pockets 490b are arranged along a second longitudinal axis, and a plurality of third forming pockets 490c are arranged along a third longitudinal axis. Each forming pocket 490a, 490b, and 490c includes a proximal forming pocket end and a distal forming pocket end. For example, each first forming pocket 490a includes a proximal end 493a configured to receive a proximal leg of a first staple and a distal end 495a configured to receive a distal leg of the first staple, each second forming pocket 490b includes a proximal end 493b configured to receive a proximal leg of a second staple and a distal end 495b configured to receive a distal leg of the second staple, and each forming pocket 490c includes a proximal end 493c configured to receive a proximal leg of a third staple and a distal end 495c configured to receive a distal leg of the third staple.

[0178] The proximal ends 493a, 493b, and 493c and the distal ends 495a, 495b, and 495c can comprise any suitable configuration. Referring again to FIG. 6, the proximal ends 493a, 493b, and 493c and the distal ends 495a, 495b, and 495c each comprise an enlarged cup. The enlarged cups are wider than a groove 497 defined therebetween. In certain instances, the enlarged cups and the groove extending therebetween can comprise an hourglass shape, for example. When the legs of a staple enter such a forming pocket, the legs can enter the enlarged cups and, as the staple legs are deformed, the enlarged cups can guide the staple legs into the groove 497. Each enlarged cup can include curved and/or angled sidewalls which can be configured to guide a staple leg toward the groove 497. The enlarged cups can, in certain instances, adjust the orientation of a misaligned staple leg.

[0179] The staple forming pockets 490a, 490b, and 490c are nested. For instance, the distal enlarged cup 495b of a second forming pocket 490b is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493c, 495c of an adjacent third staple forming pocket 490c and, additionally, the proximal enlarged cup 493b of a second forming pocket 490b is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493a, 495a of an adjacent first forming pocket 490a. Also, for instance, the proximal enlarged cup 493a of a first forming pocket 490a is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493b, 495b of an adjacent second forming pocket 490b. Additional, for instance, the distal enlarged cup 495c of a third forming pocket 490c is positioned intermediate the enlarged cups 493b, 495b of an adjacent second forming pocket 490b. The enlarged forming cups of each staple cavity can define a rectangular perimeter within which the entire forming pocket can be positioned. As a result of the nesting arrangement described above, the rectangular perimeter of one staple forming cavity can overlap the rectangular perimeter of another forming cavity. For instance, the rectangular perimeter of a second forming cavity 490b can overlap the rectangular perimeter of a first forming cavity 490a and/or the rectangular perimeter of a third forming cavity 490c.

[0180] Referring again to FIG. 52A, the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c do not overlap. Other embodiments are envisioned in which at least some of the staples in a staple pattern overlap. Turning now to FIG. 32, a staple pattern disclosed therein comprises a first row of longitudinal staples 580a and a second row of longitudinal staples 580b. As the reader will appreciate, some of the staples 580a in the first row and the staples 580b in the second row are overlapped. In at least one instance, the base of a second staple 580b extends under the base of a first staple 580a. In such an instance, the distal leg 585b of the second staple 580b is positioned on one side of the base of the first staple 580a and the proximal leg 583b of the second staple 580b is positioned on the other side of the base of the first staple 580a. Similarly, in at least one instance, the base of a first staple 580a extends under the base of a second staple 580b. In such an instance, the distal leg 585a of the first staple 580a is positioned on one side of the base of the second staple 580b and the proximal leg 583a of the first staple 580a is positioned on the other side of the base of the second staple 580b. As a result of the above, the first staples 580a are interweaved with the second staples 580b.

[0181] Referring again to FIG. 32, the staple pattern comprises a first row of staples 580a and a second row of staples 580b positioned on one side of a longitudinal tissue incision and a first row of staples 580a and a second row of staples 580b positioned on the other side of the longitudinal tissue incision. The first staples 580a are oriented distally and toward the longitudinal tissue incision and the second staples 580b are oriented proximally and toward the longitudinal tissue incision.

[0182] Referring again to FIG. 32, the first row of staples 580a is positioned along a first longitudinal axis and the second row of staples 580b is positioned along the second longitudinal axis. As a result of the overlap between the first staples 580a and the second staples 580b, the first longitudinal axis can be adjacent the second longitudinal axis, in certain instances. In some instances, the overlap between a first row of staples and a second row of staples can permit angled staples in these rows of staples to have the same centerline spacing that can be achieved with traditional, longitudinally-arranged staple patterns, such as the staple pattern illustrated in FIG. 52, for example. In some instances, the overlap between a first row of staples and a second row of staples can permit angled staples in these rows of staples to have a closer centerline spacing than can be achieved with traditional, longitudinally-arranged staple patterns. In at least one embodiment, the first longitudinal axis can be collinear with the second longitudinal axis.

[0183] The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 32 comprises a repeating pattern. The repeating pattern comprises two first staples 580a followed by two second staples 580b followed by two first staples 580a followed by two second staples 580b, and so forth. This repeating pattern extends longitudinally in the proximal-distal direction. The first row of staples 580a has breaks therein which are filled by staples 580b and, similarly, the second row of staples 580b has breaks therein which are filled by staples 580a. A repeating pattern is present on one side of the longitudinal incision and a repeating pattern is present on the other side of the longitudinal incision. These repeating patterns are mirror-images of one another. Other repeating patterns are contemplated.

[0184] A staple cartridge 530 configured to removably store and deploy the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 32 is illustrated in FIG. 33. The staple cartridge 530 includes a first row of staple cavities 570a for removably storing the first staples 580a and a second row of staple cavities 570b for removably storing the second staples 580b. At least some of the first staple cavities 570a and the second staple cavities 570b are interconnected to removably store the overlapping first staples 580a and second staples 580b. A first row of staple cavities 570a can be arranged along a first longitudinal axis and a row of second staple cavities 570b can be arranged along a second longitudinal axis. The first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis can be adjacent or collinear, as appropriate, in order to deploy the staple patterns disclosed herein. A first row of staple cavities 570a and a second row of staple cavities 570b are positioned on a first side of a longitudinal slot 534 and a first row of staple cavities 570a and a second row of staple cavities 570b are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot 534. The longitudinal slot 534 is configured to receive a firing member. The firing member can include a cutting element, such as a knife, for example.

[0185] An anvil 520 configured to deform the staples of the staple pattern disclosed in FIG. 32 is illustrated in FIG. 34. The anvil 520 includes a repeating pattern of forming cavities including first forming cavities 590a configured to deform the legs of the first staples 580a and second forming cavities 590b configured to deform the legs of the second staples 580b. The first forming cavities 590a and the second forming cavities 590b are arranged in an alternating pattern. The alternating pattern comprises arrays of first forming cavities 590a and second forming cavities 590b positioned along a first longitudinal axis and arrays of first forming cavities 590a and second forming cavities 590b positioned along a second longitudinal axis which are positioned on one side of a longitudinal slot 524. The alternating pattern further comprises arrays of first forming cavities 590a and second forming cavities 590b positioned along a first longitudinal axis and arrays of first forming cavities 590a and second forming cavities 590b positioned along a second longitudinal axis which are positioned on the other side of the longitudinal slot 524. The arrays of forming cavities 590a, 590b can define a mirror image with respect to the longitudinal slot 524. The longitudinal slot 524 is configured to receive a firing member. The firing member can include a cutting element, such as a knife, for example.

[0186] The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 32 comprises two rows of staples on each side of the longitudinal tissue incision; however, such a staple pattern could include more than two rows of staples, such as three rows of staples, for example. Such a third row of staples could be interweaved with the first row of staples 580a and/or the second row of staples 580b. Alternatively, such a third row of staples may not be interweaved with either the first row of staples 580a or the second row of staples 580b. In such an embodiment, the first row of staples 580a and the second row of staples 580b can be interweaved and the third row of staples could be adjacent the first row of staples 580a and/or the second row of staples 580b, for example.

[0187] The staple pattern depicted in FIG. 35 includes a longitudinal row of first staples 680a, a longitudinal row of second staples 680b, and a longitudinal row of third staples 6870c. The first staples 680a have a first base width. The second staples 680b have a second base width. The third staples 680c have a third base width. The width of a staple base can be defined as the distance between a first staple leg extending from the base and a second staple leg extending from the base measured along the base extending between the first staple leg and the second staple leg. In at least one instance, the base width is measured between the cross-sectional center of the first staple leg and the cross-sectional center of the second staple leg. In any event, the first base width is shorter than the second base width; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the second base width is shorter than the first base width. The third base width is shorter than the first base width and the second base width; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which the third base width is longer than the first base width and/or the second base width.

[0188] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 35, the second staples 680b have the longest base width. As a result, when the staples in the staple pattern rotate within tissue as the tissue is being stretched longitudinally, the second staples 680b will sweep through a larger arc length than the first staples 680a. Similarly, the first staples 680a will sweep through a larger arc length than the third staples 680c. In various instances, as a result, the first staples 680a will sweep through a first arc length, the second staples 680b will sweep through a second arc length, and the third staples 680c will sweep through a third arc length, wherein the first arc length, the second arc length, and the third arc length are different. Such arc lengths can be different even though the degree in which the staples 680a, 680b, and/or 680c are the same. In certain instances, the first arc length, the second arc length, and/or the third arc length can be the same.

[0189] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 35, the first staples 680a are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in a staple cartridge 630. The distal most first staple 680a is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. The next first staple 680a in the second longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of first staples 680a.

[0190] The second staples 680b are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in a staple cartridge 630. The distal most second staple 680b is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. The next second staple 680b in the second longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of second staples 680b.

[0191] The third staples 680c are positioned and arranged in an alternating arrangement in a staple cartridge 630. The distal most third staple 680c is oriented toward the distal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward a longitudinal slot 634 defined in the staple cartridge 630. The next third staple 680c in the third longitudinal row is oriented toward the proximal end of the staple cartridge 630 and toward the longitudinal slot 634. This pattern then repeats within the longitudinal row of third staples 680c.

[0192] With further reference to the staple pattern depicted in FIG. 35, the longitudinal row of first staples 380a is nested within the longitudinal row of second staples 380b. Similarly, the longitudinal row of third staples 380c is nested within the longitudinal row of second staples 380b.

[0193] The staple cartridge 630, further to the above, comprises a plurality of first staple cavities 670a configured to removably store the first staples 680a therein. The staple cartridge 630 further comprises a plurality of second staple cavities 670b configured to removably store the second staples 680b and a plurality of third staple cavities 670c configured to removably store the third staples 680c. Referring to FIG. 36, an anvil 620 can be configured to deform the staples 680a, 680b, and 680c as they are ejected from the staple cartridge 630. The anvil 620 comprises a staple forming pocket pattern that is aligned with the staple cavities 670a, 670b, and 670c. For instance, the anvil 620 comprises a plurality of first forming pockets 690a aligned with the first staple cavities 670a, a plurality of second forming pockets 690b aligned with the second staple cavities 670b, and a plurality of third forming pockets 690c aligned with the third staple cavities 670c.

[0194] As discussed above, a staple pattern can comprise several rows. The staples in each row can have the same orientation or different orientations. FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment comprising a row of staples having a first group of staples 780a oriented in a first direction and a second group of staples 780b oriented in a second direction. The first staples 780a and the second staples 780b are positioned along a longitudinal axis. The first staples 780a are angled with respect to the longitudinal axis and the second staples 780b are aligned with the longitudinal axis. Other arrangements are possible. The staples 780a are arranged in an alternating pattern with the staples 780b.

[0195] With continued reference to FIG. 23 and referring again to FIG. 24, the staples within a staple row can translate and rotate within tissue when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. In some instances, the translation and/or rotation of the staples within the tissue can create holes, or gaps, between the staples and the tissue. Such holes, or gaps, can create leaks. Even though various staple patterns disclosed herein can minimize such leaks, certain improvements to the staples themselves can be made to reduce and/or eliminate these leaks.

[0196] Turning now to FIGS. 17 and 18, a staple, such as staples 280a, 280b, 280c, 380a, 380b, 380c, 580a, 580b, 680a, 680b, 680c, 780a, and/or 780b, for example, is depicted in an unfired configuration. The unfired configuration of this staple is V-shaped; however, the principles discussed herein can be applied to any suitably-shaped staple. FIG. 19 illustrates the staple of FIGS. 17 and 18 in a fired configuration. The fired configuration of this staple is B-shaped; however, the principles discussed herein can be applied to any suitably-shaped staple. FIG. 20 depicts the staple of FIGS. 17-19 including a coating 881 thereon; this staple will hereinafter be referred to as staple 880. FIG. 21 illustrates the staple 880 deployed into tissue and a hole, or gap, 882 present between the staple 880 and the tissue. FIG. 22 illustrates the coating 881 on the staple 880 in an expanded state. The expanded coating 881 can fill the entirety of the gap 882. In some circumstances, the expanded coating 881 can stretch the tissue. In various other circumstances, the coating 881 may not fill the entirety of the gap 882.

[0197] The staple 880 can be comprised of any suitable material, such as metal, for example. In certain instances, the staple 880 can be comprised of titanium and/or stainless steel, for example.

[0198] The expandable staple coating 881 can be comprised of any suitable material. The staple coating 881 can be comprised of Poly-L-lactic acid and/or Poly-95L/5D-lactic acid, for example. Other copolymer compositions of PLA could be utilized. In various instances, the staple coating 881 can begin to form a gel as soon as the staple 880 is implanted into the tissue wherein the gel can expand to fill, or at least partially fill, the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881 can be applied to the staple 880 by immersing the staple wire in one or more solutions that coat the wire. In at least one instance, the staple wire can be immersed in a first solution to apply a base coating and then a second solution to apply the PLA, for example. In some instances, the coating 881 can be applied to staples 880 when the staples 880 are positioned in a staple cartridge. The entire disclosure of ELASTOMERIC BIOMATERIALS FOR TISSUE ENGINEERING, Progress In Polymer Science 38 (2013) 584-671 by Q. Chen et al. is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0199] The staple coating 881 can be comprised of a hydrophilic material, for example. A hydrophilic material can comprise a hydrogel derivitized with a peptide containing RGD peptide sequence microspheres, for example. The metal wire of the staple 880 can be coated with a natural biopolymer, such as hyaluronan or hyaluronic acid, for example. Other hydrogels could be utilized. In various instances, the staple coating 881 can begin to expand as soon as the staple 880 is implanted into the tissue wherein the coating 881 can expand to fill, or at least partially fill, the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881 can be applied to the staple 880 by immersing the staple wire in one or more solutions that coat the wire. In at least one instance, the staple wire can be immersed in a first solution to apply a base coating and then a second solution to apply the hyaluronan loaded with peptides, for example. In some instances, the coating 881 can be applied to staples 880 when the staples 880 are positioned in a staple cartridge. The entire disclosure of ATTACHMENT OF HYALURONAN TO METALLIC SURFACES, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. 68A: 95-106 (2004) by William G. Pitt et al. is incorporated by reference herein.

[0200] The staple coating 881 can be comprised of xerogel, for example. The staple coating 881 can be comprised of gelatin microspheres and/or nanospheres, for example. Gelatin comprises an at least partially denatured, or completely denatured, form of collagen that cells can bind to and degrade through enzymatic action. In various instances, the gelatin can be loaded with fibroblast and/or platelet-derived growth factor, for example. As the coating 881 degrades, the coating 881 can at least partially fill and at least partially seal the gap 882. In various instances, the coating 881 can be applied to the staple 880 by immersing the staple wire in a water-in-oil emulsion and then lyophilizing the gelatin microspheres and/or nanospheres onto the staple wire. The entire disclosure of GELATIN MICROSPHERES CROSS-LINKED WITH GENIPIN FOR LOCAL DELIVERY OF GROWTH FACTORS, J. Tissue Eng. Regen. Med. 4: 514-523 (2010) by Luis Solorio et al. is incorporated by reference herein.

[0201] The staple 880 is comprised of a wire having a circular cross-section; however, the staple 880 can be comprised of a wire having any suitable cross-section, such as a polygonal cross-section, for example. Non-circular cross-sections can have larger perimeters than circular cross-sections for a certain overall width. Such non-circular cross-sections can support a larger quantity of coating material than circular cross-sections which can allow the coating to expand and fill larger holes than staples having circular cross-sections. In certain instances, a non-circular cross section can be formed be creating one or more grooves in a circular cross-section. In at least one such instance, such grooves can extend longitudinally along the staple legs. In some instances, a longitudinal groove can extend along an axis. In certain instances, a longitudinal groove can wrap around a staple leg. In at least one instance, such a longitudinal groove can extend around a leg in a helical manner.

[0202] The staples of a staple cartridge can be deployed with or without the use of an adjunct material, such as buttress material, for example. Often, an adjunct material can be placed on the top surface, or deck, of a staple cartridge such that, when the staples are ejected from the staple cartridge, the staples can capture the adjunct material against the tissue. FIG. 55 illustrates two pieces of adjunct material 239 positioned on a deck surface 238 of the staple cartridge 230. A first piece of adjunct material 239 is positioned on a first side of the longitudinal slot 234 and a second piece of adjunct material 239 is positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot 234. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which a single piece of adjunct material is supported by the deck surface 238 which extends over the longitudinal slot 234 and both sides of the staple cartridge 230. Referring again to FIG. 55, each piece of adjunct material 239 is substantially rectangular and extends over a staple pattern including a row of first staple cavities 270a, a row of second staple cavities 270b, and a row of third staple cavities 270c. The staples 280a, 280b, and 280c stored in the staple cavities 270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively, penetrate the adjunct material 239 when they are ejected from the staple cartridge 230 and capture a portion of the adjunct material 239 therein as the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c are formed by the anvil 220.

[0203] In addition to or in lieu of the adjunct material positioned on the staple cartridge, adjunct material may be positioned on an anvil. The staples penetrating the tissue could penetrate the anvil adjunct before contacting the anvil and then re-penetrate the anvil adjunct before re-entering into the tissue.

[0204] After the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c have been deformed by the anvil 220, further to the above, the adjunct material 239 is captured against the tissue by the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c. Stated another way, the adjunct material 239 is implanted against the tissue by the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c. When the tissue is stretched longitudinally, as discussed above, the adjunct material 239 can stretch with the tissue.

[0205] Adjunct materials can provide many benefits. Adjunct materials can assist in sealing the puncture holes created by the staple legs. In various instances, the staple legs can push the adjunct material into the puncture holes as the staple legs pass through the tissue. Adjunct materials can also assist in sealing gaps created between the staple legs and the tissue when the tissue is stretched longitudinally. Adjunct materials can bolster the tissue. In various instances, the adjunct material can strengthen the tissue and inhibit the staples from tearing through the tissue.

[0206] Referring again to FIG. 55, the reader will appreciate that portions of the adjunct material 239 are not captured by the staples 280a, 280b, and 280c. For instance, the portions of the adjunct material extending around the perimeter thereof may not be captured by the staples. Similarly, portions of the adjunct material positioned intermediate the staples may not be captured by the staples. Such uncaptured portions of the adjunct material 239 may not provide the sealing benefits discussed above and, at the same time, inhibit the extensibility provided by the staple patterns discussed herein. Such uncaptured portions may also inhibit the rotation of the staples within the tissue, as discussed above. Improvements to the embodiment of FIG. 55 are depicted in FIGS. 53, 54, 56, and 57. Such embodiments comprise recesses, notches, cuts, slits, apertures, and/or any other suitable interruptions configured to increase the extensibility of an adjunct material. Moreover, such interruptions may facilitate the rotation of the staples within the tissue.

[0207] Referring to FIG. 53, an adjunct material 939 comprises scalloped edges, or sides, 938. The scalloped sides 938 include recesses, or notches, 937 defined therein. Notches 937 comprise a curved configuration; however, an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 937 reduce the perimeter of uncaptured material extending around the perimeter of the adjunct material 939 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 939.

[0208] Referring again to FIG. 53, the adjunct material 939 further comprises apertures 936 defined therein. The apertures 936 are oblong and comprise through holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. The apertures 936 are located intermediate adjacent second staple cavities 270b and intermediate a first staple cavity 270a and a third staple cavity 270c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The apertures 936 reduce the uncaptured material within the staples lines and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 939.

[0209] Referring again to FIG. 53, the body of the adjunct material 939 extends over the staple cavities 270a, 270b, and 270c. Alternative embodiments are envisioned in which the adjunct material 939 does not extend over the staple cavities 270a, 270b, and/or 270c. Turning now to FIG. 54, the adjunct material 939′ includes slots, or openings, 935a, 935b, and 935c which partially extend over the staple cavities 270a, 270b, and 270c, respectively. The openings 935a, 935b, and 935c are larger than the apertures 936; however, the openings 935a, 935b, and/or 935c can be the same size as and/or larger than the apertures 936.

[0210] Referring to FIG. 56, an adjunct material 1039 comprises notched edges, or sides, 1038. The notched sides 1038 include recesses, or notches, 1037 defined therein. Notches 1037 comprise an angular configuration; however, an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 1037 reduce the perimeter of uncaptured material extending around the adjunct material 1039 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 1039.

[0211] Referring again to FIG. 56, the adjunct material 1039 further comprises slits 1036 defined therein. The slits 1036 are oblong and comprise through holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. The adjunct material 1039 comprises a first row of slits 1036a and a second row of slits 1036b. The slits 1036a are located intermediate adjacent second staples 1080b and intermediate a first staple 1080a and a third staple 1080c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1036b are located intermediate adjacent third staples 1080c and intermediate a second staple 1080b and a fourth staple 1080d; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1036a are parallel to the first staples 1080a and the third staples 1080c and, similarly, the slits 1036b are parallel to the second staples 1080b and the fourth staples 1080d; however, the slits may have any suitable direction. The slits 1036a and 1036b reduce the uncaptured material within the staple lines and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 1039. The slits 1036a and 1036b are shorter than the bases of the staples 1080a, 1080b, 1080c, and 1080d; however, embodiments are envisioned in which the slits 1036a and/or 1036b are the same length as and/or longer than the bases of staples 1080a, 1080b, 1080c, and 1080d.

[0212] Referring to FIG. 57, an adjunct material 1139 comprises notched edges, or sides, 1138. The notched sides 1138 include recesses, or notches, 1137 defined therein. Notches 1137 comprise a curved configuration; however, an suitable configuration can be utilized. The notches 1137 reduce the perimeter of uncaptured material extending around the adjunct material 1139 and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 1139.

[0213] Referring again to FIG. 57, the adjunct material 1139 further comprises slits 1136 defined therein. The slits 1136 are oblong and comprise through holes; however, alternative embodiments are envisioned. The adjunct material 1139 comprises a first row of slits 1136a and a second row of slits 1136b. The slits 1136a are located intermediate adjacent second staples 1180b and intermediate a first staple 1180a and a third staple 1180c; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1136b are located intermediate adjacent third staples 1180c and intermediate a second staple 1180b and a fourth staple 1180d; however, alternate locations are envisioned. The slits 1136a are parallel to the first staples 1180a and the third staples 1180c and, similarly, the slits 1136b are parallel to the second staples 1180b and the fourth staples 1180d; however, the slits may have any suitable direction. The slits 1136a and 1136b reduce the uncaptured material within the staple lines and increase the flexibility and extensibility of the adjunct material 1139. The slits 1136a and 1136b are shorter than the bases of the staples 1180a, 1180b, 1180c, and 1180d; however, embodiments are envisioned in which the slits 1136a and/or 1136b are the same length as and/or longer than the bases of the staples 1180a, 1180b, 1180c, and 1180d.

[0214] As described herein, a firing member and/or wedge sled can traverse a staple cartridge to fire and/or eject staples from the staple cavities that are defined into the staple cartridge. For example, a firing member and/or a wedge sled can translate along a firing path within a staple cartridge, and the firing member and/or the wedge sled can engage a staple driver and/or the staple itself along the firing path to drive the staple from the staple cavity. As also described herein, staple arrangements that include angularly-oriented staples can provide various benefits and advantages. For example, an array of angularly-oriented staples can provide increased flexibility and/or longitudinal stretchability within stapled tissue.

[0215] When a staple is angularly-oriented relative to the firing path, at least a portion of the staple driver and/or the staple may not overlap and/or overlie the firing path. For example, the base of an angularly-oriented staple can cross the firing path such that the staple legs are positioned on opposite sides of the firing path. Additionally, an angularly-oriented staple driver can traverse the firing path, and the ends of the staple driver can be positioned on opposite sides of the firing path. In other instances, only an end of the staple and/or the staple driver may overlie the firing path and, in still other instances, the staple and/or the staple driver may be entirely offset from the firing path, for example.

[0216] In instances where at least a portion of the staple and/or the staple driver is offset from the firing path, a moment arm between the firing path and the portion(s) of the staple and/or the staple driver positioned on either side of the firing path may generate a torque within the staple and/or within the staple driver. Torque could affect tilting and/or tipping of the staples during deployment. As a result, the staple legs of a torqued staple may not engage tissue with equivalent force and/or speed, and/or the staple legs may not pierce and/or capture the tissue simultaneously. Because torqueing and/or rotation of a staple during deployment may adversely impact tissue penetration and/or staple formation, in various instances, it can be desirable to prevent and/or minimize torque generation during deployment of an array of angularly-oriented staples.

[0217] When a staple driver is angled relative to the firing path of a wedge sled, only a portion of the angled driver may receive the driving or lifting force from the wedge sled. For example, the driving force can be applied to the angled driver along a diagonal path. To stabilize the angled driver and prevent torqueing and/or rotation of the driver, and thus, of the staple supported thereon, the wedge sled can include multiple driving wedges, and at least two driving wedges can contact the driver to apply the driving force at multiple locations on the driver. For example, a pair of laterally-spaced driving wedges can engage and lift an angled driver such that the driving force is distributed at laterally-spaced intervals along the length of the driver. Moreover, in at least one instance, the laterally-spaced driving wedges can be equidistant from the center of mass of the angled driver, such that the driver is mass balanced relative to the multiple driving wedges.

[0218] Additionally or alternatively, to stabilize the angled drivers and prevent torqueing and/or rotation of the drivers, and thus, torqueing and/or rotation of the angled staples supported thereon, multiple drivers can be connected and/or linked together. In some instances, an angled multi-staple driver can be integrally formed. Connected drivers and/or a multi-staple driver can support multiple staples, which can reduce the number of moving parts within a staple cartridge and can prevent relative movement between the staple supporting surfaces of each interconnected and/or integrally formed staple cradle. Moreover, an angled multi-staple driver can be larger, i.e., wider and/or longer, than a single-staple driver. As a result, a multi-staple driver can be have an increased aspect ratio. For example, a multi-staple driver can have an aspect ratio of 1:1. In certain instances, the aspect ratio may be 3:2 or 2:1. In still other instances, the aspect ratio can be less than 1:1 or more than 2:1, for example. The greater aspect ratio of a multi-staple driver can provide greater stability to the staples supported thereon.

[0219] In various instances, a single driving wedge can engage an angled multi-staple driver, and, in certain instances, the driving force exerted on the driver by the driving wedge can be balanced relative to the center of mass of the driver. In other instances, multiple driving wedges can engage an angled multi-staple driver, which can distribute the driving force laterally across the driver. In various instances, the cumulative driving force exerted on an angled multi-staple driver by laterally-spaced driving wedges can be balanced relative to the center of mass of the driver.

[0220] In other circumstances, to stabilize angled staples within a staple cartridge and prevent torqueing and/or rotation thereof during deployment, the staples can be fired without drivers. For example, the wedge sled can include a staple-engagement surface that directly engages sled-engagement surfaces of staples in a driverless staple cartridge. The wedge sled can contact each staple at multiple laterally-spaced positions along the base of the staple. For example, the wedge sled can include multiple driving wedges, and at least two driving wedges can contact the angled staple to apply the driving force at multiple locations. In various instances, a pair of laterally-spaced driving wedges can engage and lift the angled staple such that the driving force is equally distributed at laterally-spaced intervals along the length of the base of the staple. Moreover, in at least one instance, the laterally-spaced driving wedges can be equidistant from the center of mass of the angled staple, such that the staple is mass balanced relative to the driving wedges.

[0221] An end effector assembly 2000 is disclosed in FIG. 7. As depicted, the end effector assembly 2000 includes a first jaw 2002, a second jaw 2004, a closure tube or frame 2006, and an end effector articulation joint 2009. The end effector assembly 2000 is movable between a first or open position and a second or closed position. As depicted, the first jaw 2002 includes pivot pins 2008, which are movably positioned within closure slots 2010 of the second jaw 2004. For example, the pivot pins 2008 are configured to pivot and translate in the closure slots 2010 of the second jaw 2004 as the first jaw 2002 pivots relative to the second jaw 2004 and relative to the frame 2006 of the depicted end effector assembly 2000.

[0222] In other instances, the first jaw 2002 can be fixed relative to the frame 2006, and the second jaw 2004 can pivot relative to the first jaw 2002 to open and close the jaws 2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. In still other instances, both jaws 2002, 2004 can pivot and/or otherwise move to open and/or close the jaws 2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. For example, at least one of the jaws 2002, 2004 can rotate, spin, slide and/or translate relative to the other jaw 2002, 2004 and/or relative to the frame 2006 to open and/or close the jaws 2002, 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

[0223] Referring still to FIG. 7, the end effector assembly 2000 is dimensioned and structured to receive a staple cartridge 2020, which is configured for removable positioning within the end effector assembly 2000. For example, the depicted staple cartridge 2020 can be a single-use and/or disposable cartridge, which can be replaced with another staple cartridge after firing the staples 2012 therefrom. The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 includes a deck 2026, a cartridge body 2024, and a casing 2022 which partially surrounds or encloses the cartridge body 2024. The depicted staple cartridge 2020 also includes staples 2012 which can be ejectably positioned in the cartridge body 2024. The staples 2012 disclosed in FIG. 7 are generally “V-shaped” staples, which have non-parallelly extending legs.

[0224] In various instances, a staple cartridge, such as the staple cartridge 2020, for example, can be integrally formed with the end effector assembly 2000 and/or can be permanently fixed within one of the jaws 2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, the end effector assembly 2000 can be a single-use and/or disposable end effector. In other instances, a staple cartridge that is fixed to the end effector assembly 2000 can be reloaded with additional staples for subsequent firings, for example.

[0225] Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7, a longitudinal slot 2032 is defined at least partially though the cartridge body 2024. The depicted longitudinal slot 2032 extends along a longitudinal axis L, which extends between a proximal end 2023 and a distal end 2025 of the cartridge body 2024. The longitudinal slot 2032 shown in FIG. 7 extends from the proximal end 2023 toward the distal end 2025 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body 2024.

[0226] In some instances, the longitudinal slot 2032 can traverse the entire length of the cartridge body 2024. In other instances, the longitudinal slot 2032 can extend from the distal end 2023 toward the proximal end 2025, for example. In still other instances, the cartridge body 2024 may not include a predefined and/or preformed longitudinal slot. For example, a firing member and/or a cutting element can transect and/or cut the cartridge body 2024 during the firing stroke to form a slot therein.

[0227] The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured to fire an array 2011 of staples 2012 into tissue. The staple array 2011 shown in FIG. 7 includes angled staples 2012, which are angled relative to the longitudinal axis L and relative to the firing paths of the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b, which are further described herein. The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 also includes multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b, which are further described herein, to drivingly support the angled staples 2012 in the array 2011.

[0228] The angled staples 2012 are removably positioned in angled staple cavities 2028 which are defined into the cartridge body 2024 disclosed in FIG. 7. For example, the depicted staple cavities 2028 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. The depicted arrangement of staple cavities 2028 corresponds to the depicted staple array 2011 positioned in the staple cartridge 2020. Each staple cavity 2028 shown in FIG. 7 includes an opening 2030 in the deck 2026, and each opening 2030 includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a staple axis extending between the proximal end and the distal end. The staple axis of the openings 2030 are skewed and/or angled relative to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. For example, in the staple cartridge 2020 of FIG. 7, all the staple cavities 2028 defined into the cartridge body 2024 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L and various staple cavities 2028 are angularly-oriented relative to other staple cavities 2028.

[0229] The staple cavities 2028 disclosed in FIG. 7 are arranged in multiple rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, a portion of the staple cavities 2028 are arranged in a first inside row 2033, a first outside row 2035, and a first intermediate row 2037 on a first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032, and another portion of the staple cavities 2028 are arranged in a second inside row 2034, a second outside row 2038, and a second intermediate row 2036 on a second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. In the staple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 and rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 thereof are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2032.

[0230] Though the depicted staple cavities 2028 do not cross or otherwise contact each other, the longitudinal rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 of staple cavities 2028 overlap. For example, various staple cavities 2028 shown in FIG. 7 extend laterally outboard and/or laterally inboard past the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 2028. Additionally, various depicted staple cavities 2028 extend proximally and/or distally past the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows of staple cavities 2028. Because the staples 2012 are arranged in an overlapping array 2011, bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue can be controlled. An overlapping array of staples, like the staple array 2011, for example, could be incorporated into other staple cartridges and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

[0231] In other instances, greater than or fewer than three rows of staple cavities 2028 can be positioned on either side 2027, 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. In some instances, one of the sides 2027, 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020 can include a different number of rows of staple cavities 2028 than the other side 2027, 2029. In some instances, the staple cavities 2028 may not longitudinally and/or laterally overlap the staple cavities 2028 in adjacent rows. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cavities 2028 and/or rows thereof can be asymmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2032 and/or the longitudinal axis L.

[0232] Referring still to FIG. 7, the depicted staple cavities 2028 in each longitudinal row are parallel or substantially parallel. For example, as disclosed in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in the first inside row 2033 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the first outside row 2035 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the first intermediate row 2037 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the second inside row 2034 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2028 in the second outside row 2036 are parallel to each other, and the staple cavities 2028 in the second intermediate row 2038 are parallel to each other.

[0233] As also disclosed in FIG. 7, the staple cavities 2028 in each longitudinal row are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in the adjacent longitudinal row(s). For example, on the first side 2027 of the depicted cartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 in the first intermediate row 2037 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in the first inner row 2033 and in the first outer row 2035. Additionally, on the second side 2029 of the depicted cartridge body 2024, the staple cavities 2028 in the second intermediate row 2038 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2028 in the second inner row 2034 and the second outer row 2036.

[0234] In other instances, only a portion of the staples cavities 2028 in each longitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 may be parallel to each other and/or less than all of the longitudinal rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can include staple cavities 2028 that are parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2028 can be randomly oriented. In some instances, at least one of the staple cavities 2028 in a longitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038 can be parallel to at least one of the staple cavities 2028 in an adjacent longitudinal row 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038. In certain instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can include at least one staple cavity 2028 and/or at least one row of staple cavities that are parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2024. See, for example, FIG. 10.

[0235] The staple cartridge 2020 disclosed in FIG. 7 includes drivers 2040a, 2040b, which are structured and dimensioned to movably fit within the cartridge body 2024 (FIG. 7). Referring to FIGS. 7-9, the drivers 2040a, 2040b include first drivers 2040a (FIGS. 8-8B) and second drivers 2040b (FIGS. 8C-9). The first and second drivers 2040a, 2040b are each configured to support multiple staples 2012. As shown in FIGS. 7-9, the multi-staple first drivers 2040a have a first geometry and the multi-staple second drivers 2040b have a second geometry. The geometry of the multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b corresponds to the array 2011 of staples 2012 and to the arrangement of staple cavities 2028 shown in FIG. 7.

[0236] As described herein, the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028 on the first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032 is a mirror image of the arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028 on the second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. Additionally, the geometry of the first drivers 2040a is a mirror image of the geometry of the second drivers 2040b. As depicted in FIG. 7, the first drivers 2040a are positioned on a first side 2027 of the longitudinal slot 2032, and the second drivers 2040b are positioned on a second side 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032.

[0237] In some instances, the drivers on one side of a cartridge body may not be a mirror image of the drivers on the other side of the cartridge body. Additionally, the first multi-staple drivers 2040a and/or the second multi-staple drivers 2040b can be positioned on different and/or both sides 2027, 2029 of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, multi-staple drivers having different geometries can be positioned on the same side of the longitudinal slot 2032. In still other instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can include multi-staple drivers of three or more different geometries. For example, a specialized and/or different staple driver can correspond to a particular staple and/or group of staples. Alternatively, in some instances, all multi-staple drivers in the staple cartridge 2020 can have the same geometry.

[0238] The first and second multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b disclosed in FIGS. 7-9 include multiple troughs or staple supporting cradles 2042. Moreover, each depicted driver 2040a, 2040b is configured to drive multiple staples 2012. For example, the first drivers 2040a (FIGS. 8-8B) include a first cradle 2042a, a second cradle 2042b, and a third cradle 2042c, which are each dimensioned and structured to support one staple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 8B) of a staple 2012 is positioned in each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c of the first driver 2040a. Additionally, referring primarily to FIGS. 8C-9, the second drivers 2040b also include a first cradle 2042a, a second cradle 2042b, and a third cradle 2042c, which are each dimensioned and structured to support one staple 2012. For example, the base 2014 (FIG. 9) of a staple 2012 is positioned in each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c of the second driver 2040a.

[0239] As disclosed in FIG. 7, the first drivers 2040a are right-side drivers, which are positioned in the right side, or the first side 2027, of the staple cartridge 2020. The first cradle 2042a (FIGS. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2042b (FIGS. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first intermediate row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2042c (FIGS. 8-8B) of each first driver 2040a is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028.

[0240] As further disclosed in the FIG. 7, the second drivers 2040b are left-side drivers, which are positioned in the left side, or second side 2029, of the staple cartridge 2020. For example, the first cradle 2042a (FIGS. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the second outer row 2036 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2042b (FIGS. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the second intermediate row 2038 of staple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2042c (FIGS. 8C-9) of each second driver 2040b is configured to be aligned with a staple 2012 in the second inner row 2034 of staple cavities 2028.

[0241] Each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c disclosed in FIGS. 8-9 is defined into a step or platform 2045 of the first driver 2040a or the second driver 2040b. For example, the depicted first drivers 2040a and depicted second drivers 2040b include platforms 2045, and a cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c is defined into each of the platforms 2045. The platforms 2045 disclosed in FIGS. 8-9 of the driver 2040a, 2040b are the same height or elevation, and are configured to hold each staple 2012 in the array 2011 at the same height or elevation relative to the other staples 2012 in the array 2011. Referring still to FIGS. 8-9, a connecting flange 2048 is also disclosed, which extends between the steps 2045 of each driver 2040a, 2040b. The connecting flange 2048 can limit and/or restrain relative movement between the steps 2045.

[0242] In other instances, the steps or platforms 2045 can have different heights and/or elevations. For example, the height of each step 2045 can be varied to control the formed height of staples 2012, and thus, the compression of tissue captured within the formed staples 2012. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c can be varied to control the height of the formed staples 2012, and thus, the compression of tissue captured within the formed staples 2012.

[0243] The first and second drivers 2040a, 2040b and the cradles 2042a, 2042b, 2042c thereof are oriented in an arrangement that complements the arrangement of staple cavities 2028 and staple array 2011 in the staple cartridge 2020 As disclosed in FIGS. 8A and 8D, each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c includes a first end 2044 and a second end 2046, and the first end 2044 of each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c is distal to the second end 2046 of the same cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c. Additionally, an axis is defined between the first end 2044 and the second end 2046 of each cradle 2042a, 2042b, 2042c. For example, a first axis A_a is defined by the first cradle 2042a, a second axis A_b is defined by the second cradle 2042b, and a third axis A_c, is defined by the third cradle 2042c.

[0244] In the depicted arrangement, the orientation of the first axis A_a is configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled staple 2012 supported by the first cradle 2042a, the orientation of the second axis A_b is configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled staple 2012 supported by the second cradle 2042b, and the orientation of the third axis A_c, is configured to match or correspond to the orientation of the angled staple 2012 supported by the third cradle 2042c.

[0245] As disclosed in FIGS. 8A and 8D, the first axis A_a is parallel, or generally parallel, to the third axis A_c. Additionally, the second axis A_b depicted in FIGS. 8A and 8D traverses both the first axis A_a and the third axis A_c. For example, as disclosed in FIGS. 8A and 8D, the second axis A_b is perpendicular, or generally perpendicular, to the first axis A_a and the third axis A_c.

[0246] In instances where the drivers 2040a, 2040b are used in a staple cartridge having a different arrangement of staples 2012 and staple cavities 2028, the relative orientations of the cradles 2042a, 2042b, 2042c can be different. In some arrangements, for example, all of the axes A_a, A_b, A_c may be parallel. In still other arrangements, for example, all of the axes A_a, A_b, A_c may cross. In certain instances, one axis A_a, A_b, A_c may be perpendicular to at least one other axis A_a, A_b, A_c. Additionally or alternatively, in some instances, one axis A_a, A_b, A_c may be parallel to at least one other axis A_a, A_b, A_c.

[0247] Referring primarily to FIGS. 8-8C, the first and second drivers 2040a, 2040b are integrally formed pieces. For example, each driver 2040a, 2040b consists of an integrally molded part. In other instances, at least one step 2045 and/or connecting flange 2048 can be independently formed. In such instances, the multiple pieces can be glued, welded, and/or otherwise adhered together, for example, to form a unitary piece.

[0248] The multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b disclosed in FIGS. 7-9 are configured to drive staples 2012 from staple cavities 2028 across multiple longitudinal rows 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2039. In the staple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, the staples 2012 are arranged in three longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032, and the drivers 2040a, 2040b are configured to support and drive staples 2012 in each of the three longitudinal rows. For example, each depicted first driver 2040a is configured to drive a staple 2012 positioned in the first inner row 2033, a staple 2012 positioned in the first intermediate row 2037, and a staple 2012 positioned in the first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028. Additionally, each depicted second driver 2040b is configured to drive a staple 2012 positioned in the second inner row 2034, a staple 2012 positioned in the second intermediate row 2038, and a staple 2012 positioned in the second outer row 2036 of staple cavities 2028.

[0249] In other instances, the staples 2012 can be arranged in more than three longitudinal rows or less than three longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032, and the drivers 2040a, 2040b can be configured to engage staples 2012 in each of the longitudinal rows on each side of the slot 2032. For example, the staple cartridge 2020 can have two rows of staple cavities 2028 on either side of the longitudinal axis L, and a multi-staple driver positioned therein can include two cradles, which can be configured to support a staple in each of the two rows. In some instances, a multi-staple driver can fire multiple staples 2012 from the same row of staple cavities 2028. For example, a multi-staple driver can fire adjacent staples 2012 in the same row, such as a more proximal staple 2012 and a more distal staple 2012, for example. In certain instances, a multi-staple driver may not engage staples 2012 in every row on a side of the longitudinal slot 2032. For example, a separate and distinct driver may engage staples in one of the rows, such as an outermost row and/or an innermost row, for example. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cartridge 2020 can include at least one multi-staple driver and at least one single-staple driver. See, for example, FIG. 12.

[0250] The end effector assembly 2000 disclosed in FIG. 7 further includes a firing member 2060, which is configured to move relative to the cartridge body 2024. During a firing stroke, the firing member 2060 is configured to traverse the cartridge body 2024, and drivingly engage a sled 2058 to move the sled 2058 through the cartridge body 2024. For example, a portion of the depicted firing member 2060 is dimensioned and positioned to fit within the longitudinal slot 2032. As disclosed in FIG. 7, the portion of the firing member 2060 that is configured to fit within the longitudinal slot 2032 includes a cutting edge 2061, which is configured to incise tissue clamped between the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000.

[0251] The wedge sled 2058 disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured to engage the drivers 2040a, 2040b to lift the drivers 2040a, 2040b, and thus, fire the staples 2012 supported thereon, into tissue. In the depicted end effector assembly 2000, an intermediate wedge 2062 of the sled 2058 can slide and/or translate within the longitudinal slot 2032, and laterally positioned driving wedges or driving rails 2064a, 2064b defined on the sled 2058 can engage the staple drivers 2040a, 2040b. For example, the sled 2058 shown in FIG. 7 includes driving wedges or rails 2064a, 2064b, which are configured to move along firing paths F₁ (FIG. 8A) and F₂ (FIG. 8D) during a firing stroke to contact the multi-staple first and second drivers 2040a, 2040b that are longitudinally aligned with the firing paths F₁, F₂.

[0252] As disclosed in FIG. 7, the sled 2058 includes a driving wedge 2064a, 2064b on either side of the central portion 2062. The driving wedge 2064a on the first side 2027 of the staple cartridge 2020 is configured to move along the first firing path F₁ (FIG. 8A), and the driving wedge 2064b on the second side 2029 of the staple cartridge 2020 is configured to move along the second firing path F₂ (FIG. 8D).

[0253] Each driving wedge 2064a, 2064b disclosed in FIG. 7 is configured to engage one of the multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b to lift the drivers 2040a, 2040b within the staple cavities 2028 and eject the staples 2012 from the cartridge body 2024. In the depicted arrangement, the three steps 2045 of each first driver 2040a remain fixed relative to each other, and the three steps 2045 of each second driver 2040b remain fixed relative to each other. In other words, the steps 2045 of a single driver 2040a, 2040b do not move and/or rotate relative to each other. Because the steps 2045 of a single driver 2040a, 2040b do not move and/or rotate relative to each other, relative movement of the staples 2012 supported by each driver 2040a, 2040b is also restrained. Additionally, each driver 2040a, 2040b has a larger base or footprint within the cartridge body 2042, which can further reduce rotation and/or torqueing of the drivers 2040a, 2040b. As a result, shifting and/or tilting of the staples 2012 during deployment may be prevented, minimized and/or controlled by the multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b. Multi-staple drivers, like the drivers 2040a, 2040b, for example, could be incorporated into other staple cartridge and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

[0254] In various instances, the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b of the sled 2058 can be dimensioned, structured and positioned to engage a driving surface of the drivers 2040a, 2040b, respectively. For example, the drivers 2040a, 2040b can include a ramped surface and/or track, which is configured to guide and/or receive a portion of a driving wedge 2064a, 2064b, respectively, as the firing member 2060 and the sled 2058 move through the staple cartridge 2020.

[0255] The relative placement of the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b, and their corresponding firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, to the drivers 2040a, 2040b and the staples 2012 supported by the drivers 2040a, 2040b may be selected to prevent, reduce, and/or control torqueing of the drivers 2040a, 2040b and/or the staples 2012 during firing. For example, the geometry and/or material of the drivers 2040a, 2040b can be selected to place the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2040a, 2040b into alignment with the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂, respectively. Additionally or alternatively, the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b, and thus the firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, can be positioned within the cartridge 2020 to extend through the center of mass (COM) of the drivers 2040a, 2040b, respectively.

[0256] In other instances, as further described herein, the sled 2058 can include more than one driving wedge 2064a, 2064b on each side of the intermediate portion 2062. For example, multiple driving wedges 2064a, 2064b can move through either side 2027, 2029 of the cartridge body 2024. Additionally or alternatively, the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b of the wedge sled 2058 can be configured to directly engage and drive the staples 2012, as further described herein.

[0257] Referring primarily to FIGS. 8A and 8D, the first and second drivers 2040a, 2040b overlie the firing paths F₁, F₂, respectively, of the driving wedges 2064a, 2064b, respectively. For example, the first driver 2040a overlies the first firing path F₁ and the second driver 2040b overlies the second firing path F₂. Moreover, various portions of each driver 2040a, 2040b are positioned on either side of the respective driving wedge 2064a, 2064b, and thus, on either side of the firing paths F₁, F₂. Referring still to FIGS. 8A and 8D, the depicted drivers 2040a, 2040b are dimensioned and structured such that the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2040a, 2040b overlaps the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂ of the driving wedge 2064a, 2064b, respectively, for example. In other words, each depicted driver 2040a, 2040b is mass balanced relative to the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂.

[0258] For example, as disclosed in FIG. 8A, a first portion 2047 of the first driver 2040a is positioned on a first side of the firing path F₁, and a second portion 2049 of the first driver 2040a is positioned on a second side of the firing path F₁. The first portion 2047 of the first driver 2040a has a first mass m₁ and the second portion 2049 of the first driver 2040a has a mass m₂, which equals, or substantially equals, the first mass m₁. Additionally, as disclosed in FIG. 8D, a first portion 2047 of the second driver 2040b is positioned on a first side of the firing path F₂, and a second portion 2049 of the second driver 2040b is positioned on a second side of the firing path F₂. The first portion 2047 of the second driver 2040b has a first mass m₁ and the second portion 2049 of the second driver 2040b has a mass m₂, which equals or substantially equals the first mass m₁. Because the drivers 2040a, 2040b are mass balanced relative to the respective firing paths F₁, F₂, torqueing of the drivers 2040a, 2040b and the staples 2012 supported thereon during firing can be minimized and/or otherwise controlled. Additionally, the group of staples 2012 deployed by each driver 2040a, 2040b can be synchronously lifted relative to the cartridge body 2024 and simultaneously driven or fired into tissue. Mass balanced drivers, like the drivers 2040a, 2040b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0259] Additionally, as disclosed in FIGS. 8-9, at least one cutout 2050 is defined into the first and second multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b. For example, various cutouts 2050 are defined into the connecting flange 2048 of the drivers 2040a, 2040b. The cutouts 2050 are dimensioned and positioned to adjust the mass of the drivers 2040a, 2040b, and balance the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2040a, 2040b relative to the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂. Additionally, the cutouts 2050 are dimensioned and positioned to accommodate for the geometry of the staple cavities 2028, in which the drivers 2040a, 2040b are movably positioned.

[0260] In certain instances, multiple staple cavities can be defined into a staple cartridge, at least one staple cavity can be parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge, and at least one staple cavity can be angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. Referring to the staple cartridge 2120 depicted in FIG. 10, for example, multiple staple cavities 2128 are defined into the staple cartridge 2120, and multiple staple cavities 2128 are parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the staple cartridge 2120.

[0261] In the depicted staple cartridge 2120, a longitudinal slot 2032 is defined partially through the cartridge body 2124. Also defined in the cartridge body 2124 is a row of staple cavities 2128 on either side of the longitudinal slot 2032 which includes staple cavities 2128 that are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staple cartridge 2120, a first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and a second row 2138 of staple cavities 2128 are adjacent to the longitudinal slot 2032, and the staple cavities 2128 in the first row 2137 and in the second row 2138 are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L. For example, as disclosed in FIG. 10, the staple cavities 2128 in the first row 2137 are aligned with an axis A_b, which is parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0262] The staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in FIG. 10 includes additional rows of staple cavities 2128. For example, the depicted staple cartridge 2120 includes a third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and a fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128, which include staple cavities 2128 that are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. In such instances, the staple cavities 2128 in the third and fourth rows 2135, 2136 are also angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2128 in the first and second rows 2137, 2138 and are also angularly-oriented relative to each other. For example, a staple cavity 2128 in the third row 2135 is aligned with an axis A_a, which traverses the longitudinal axis L and traverses the axis A_b of the first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128. As further disclosed in FIG. 10, the staple cavities 2128 in the fourth row 2136 extend along an axis that traverses the axis A_a of a staple cavity 2128 in the third row 2135. The first and third rows 2137, 2135 of staple cavities 2128 are positioned on a first side 2127 of the depicted cartridge body 2124, and the second and fourth rows 2136, 2138 are positioned on a second side 2129 of the depicted cartridge body 2124.

[0263] In various instances, the staple cartridge 2120 disclosed in FIG. 10 can be used with the end effector assembly 2000 depicted in FIG. 7. For example, the staple cartridge 2120 can be loaded into the elongate channel of the second jaw 2004 of the end effector assembly 2000. The staple cartridge 2120 can be fired with single-staple drivers, multi-staple drivers, and/or a combination thereof. For example, a multi-staple driver may be configured to fire staples from the staple cavities 2128 in the first and third rows 2137, 2135 on the first side 2127 of the cartridge body 2124, and another multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples from the staple cavities 2128 in the second and fourth rows 2136, 2138 on the second side 2129 of the cartridge body 2124. In various instances, the drivers can be positioned within the cartridge body 2124 such that the cradles of the drivers are aligned with the staples positioned in the staple cavities 2128. In such instances, the drivers and/or the staples supported thereon can be mass balanced relative to the firing path(s) of a sled, such as the sled 2058 (FIG. 7), for example, which can be configured to traverse the cartridge body 2124 and engage the drivers therein.

[0264] In other instances, the staple cartridge 2120 may not include drivers. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2060 and/or the sled 2058 (FIG. 7), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples movably positioned in the staple cavities 2128. In such instances, the staples can be mass balanced relative to the firing path(s) of the sled 2058. In still other instances, the staples can be held in position within the cartridge body 2124, and can be crushed and/or otherwise deformed within the cartridge body 2124, for example.

[0265] In various instances, a multi-staple driver can be balanced relative to multiple driving wedges that concurrently engage and cooperatively lift the driver during deployment. For example, multi-staple drivers 2240 and a pair of driving wedges 2264a, 2264b are depicted in FIG. 11. The multi-staple drivers 2240 are configured for use with the staple cartridge 2020, for example. Additionally or alternatively, the drivers 2240 can be used with various other staple cartridges having a staple array that matches the array 2011 (FIG. 7) and corresponds to the arrangement of drivers 2240 shown in FIG. 11.

[0266] In various instances, a staple that is fired from the staple cartridge 2120 can be formed to a variable formed height. For example, the staple can have a greater height between one of the staple legs and the base than between the other staple leg and the base. In such instances, the staple can exert a greater compressive force on tissue at the shorter end of the staple. As described in greater detail herein, the height of a staple can be varied when the staple driver comprises a step or height differential (see, for example, FIG. 79), and/or when the staple forming pockets in the anvil comprise a step or height differential (see, for example, FIG. 80).

[0267] When an angled staple is deformed to a variable height, the compressive force exerted on the tissue by the angled staple can vary longitudinally and laterally. In certain instances, for example, it can be desirable to compress tissue closer to the cutline, i.e., laterally inboard, more than tissue farther from the cutline, i.e., laterally outboard. In such instances, the lateral tissue variation afforded by an angled staple that has been deformed to different compressed heights can exert a greater compressive force on a laterally inboard portion of tissue and a reduced compressive force on a laterally outboard portion of tissue.

[0268] Referring again to FIG. 10, in certain instances, the staples ejected from the third row 2135 of staple cavities 2128 and from the fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128 can be deformed to variable heights. For example, the staples can have a reduced height closer to the longitudinal axis L, and a greater height farther from the longitudinal axis L. Additionally or alternatively, the staples ejected from the first row 2137 of staple cavities 2128 and from the second row of staple cavities 2138 can be deformed to a uniform height, which can be less than the reduced, or smaller height, of the staples ejected from the third row 2135 and the fourth row 2136 of staple cavities 2128. In such instances, the compressive force exerted on the tissue can be greatest closer to the cutline, and can gradually decrease farther outboard toward the lateral sides of the staple line.

[0269] Each driver 2240 disclosed in FIG. 11 includes multiple troughs or staple supporting cradles 2242a, 2242b, 2242c. For example, each driver 2240 includes a first cradle 2242a, a second cradle 2242b, and a third cradle 2242c, which are each dimensioned and structured to support one staple, such as one of the staples 2012 (FIG. 7). For example, the base of a staple can be positioned in each cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242c. Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, the first cradle 2242a can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2242b can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first intermediate row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2242c can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In such instances, the first cradle 2242a corresponds to an outer cradle, the second cradle 2242b corresponds to an intermediate cradle, and the third cradle 2242c corresponds to an inner cradle. In various instances, another driver arrangement can be positioned on the opposite side of the staple cartridge, and the other driver arrangement can be the mirror image reflection of the driver arrangement depicted in FIG. 11.

[0270] The cradles 2242a, 2242b, 2242c depicted in FIG. 11 are defined into a support member 2248. The support member 2248 can support staples across multiple rows of staple cavities. Additionally, the support member 2248 can support staples 2012 oriented at varying angles relative to the longitudinal axis L of the staple cartridge, and/or relative to the longitudinal firing paths of the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b, for example. Referring to the depicted support member 2248, the support member 2248 is angularly-oriented relative to the firing paths of the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b. Additionally, the support member 2248 is angularly-oriented relative to at least one of the cradles 2242a, 2242b, 2242c defined therein. For example, the intermediate cradle 2242b disclosed in FIG. 11 is angularly-oriented relative to the support member 2248. Moreover, as disclosed in FIG. 11, the outer cradle 2242c and the inner cradle 2242a are aligned with the support member 2248.

[0271] In certain instances, the height of the support member 2248 can be uniform, or generally uniform, such that each staple supported by the support member 2248 is positioned at the same height or elevation. In other instances, the support member 2248 can include steps having different heights and/or elevations. For example, the height of a step can be varied to control the height of the formed staples, and thus, the compression of tissue captured within the formed staples. Additionally or alternatively, the depth of each cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242b can be varied to control the height of the formed staples, and thus, the compression of tissue captured within the formed staples.

[0272] Each cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242c disclosed in FIG. 11 includes a first end 2244 and a second end 2246. The first end 2244 of each cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242c is distal to the second end 2246 of the same cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242c. Additionally, an axis is defined between the first end 2244 and the second end 2246 of each cradle 2242a, 2242b, 2242c. For example, a first axis A_a is defined by the first cradle 2242a and the third cradle 2242c, and a second axis A_b is defined by the second cradle 2242b. As depicted in FIG. 11, the second axis A_b traverses the first axes A_a. In certain instances, the second axis A_b can be perpendicular, or generally perpendicular, to the first axis A_a.

[0273] Referring still to FIG. 11, the multi-staple drivers 2240 include rails 2245a, 2045b, which are connected to the support member 2248. The rails 2245a, 2245b are positioned to engage the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b of a wedge sled. For example, the depicted rails 2245a, 2245b are aligned with the firing paths F₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b. In such instances, the rails 2245a, 2245b can provide an elongated surface area for receiving the driving force from the driving wedges and for stabilizing the multi-staple drivers 2240 when the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b drivingly engage the rails 2245a, 2245b.

[0274] The drivers 2240 can include multiple independently formed parts, which can be glued, welded, and/or otherwise adhered together. For example, the support member 2248 can be joined together with the rails 2245a, 2245b to form the driver 2240. In other instances, each driver 2240 can be an integrally molded part, which includes the support member 2248 and the rails 2245a, 2245b.

[0275] The drivers 2240 that are disclosed in FIG. 11 overlie the firing paths F₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b. Moreover, various portions of each depicted driver 2240 are positioned on either side of the wedges 2264a, 2264b. As shown in FIG. 11, the drivers 2240 are dimensioned and structured such that the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2240 is equidistant from the drive axes, e.g., equidistant from the firing paths F₁, F₂ of the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b. For example, the firing paths F₁, F₂, depicted in FIG. 11, are separated by a width w, and the center of mass of each driver 2240 is positioned between the firing paths F₁, F₂. As shown in FIG. 11, the center of mass of each driver 2240 is laterally offset from the first firing path F₁ by a width w/2 and laterally offset from the second firing path F₂ by a width w/2. As a result, each depicted driver 2240 is mass balanced relative to the firing paths F₁, F₂. Because the drivers 2240 are mass balanced relative to the firing paths F₁, F₂, torqueing of the drivers 2240 and staples during deployment may be prevented, minimized and/or otherwise controlled. Mass balanced drivers, like the drivers 2240, for example, could be incorporated into other staple cartridges and end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

[0276] In other instances, the firing member can include a single driving wedge aligned with the drivers 2240, and the drivers 2240 can be mass balanced relative to the driving wedge. For example, the driving wedge can define a firing path that extends through the center of mass (COM) of each driver 2240. In such instances, the driving wedge may have a greater width to increase the stability of the drivers 2240. In other instances, the firing member can include three or more driving wedges, and the cumulative drive force exerted by the driving wedges can be balanced relative to the geometry of the driver 2240.

[0277] Each rail 2245a, 2245b disclosed in FIG. 11 is aligned with one of the firing paths F₁, F₂. Specifically, the first rail 2245a is aligned with the first firing path F₁, and the second rail 2245b is aligned with the second firing path F₂. The driving wedges 2264a, 2264b are configured to contact the rails 2245a, 2245b to lift the drivers 2240 and the staples supported thereon. Referring still to FIG. 11, the depicted driving wedges 2264a, 2264b are longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the first wedge 2264a trails the second wedge 2264b by the distance x indicated in FIG. 11. Additionally, the first rail 2245a is longitudinally staggered relative to the second rail 2245b. For example, the second rail 2245b is distally offset from the first rail 2245a by the distance y indicated in FIG. 11. In the arrangement disclosed in FIG. 11, the distance x equal, or substantially equals, the distance y, such that driving wedges 2264a, 2264b simultaneously contact and drive the rails 2245a, 2245b, respectively, during a firing stroke.

[0278] Because the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b disclosed in FIG. 11 simultaneously engage and drivingly lift the rails 2245a, 2245b, respectively, on either side of the center of mass (COM) of the driver 2240 and equidistant therefrom, the cumulative driving force is balanced throughout the entire deployment of the driver 2240. As a result, torqueing and/or rotation of the driver 2240, and thus of the staples supported thereon, may be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled. Longitudinally offset driving wedges, like the driving wedges 2264a, 2264b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0279] An arrangement of multi-staple drivers 2340a and single-staple drivers 2340b is disclosed in FIG. 12. Because the arrangement of drivers 2340a, 2340b corresponds to the array 2011 of staples 2012 depicted in FIG. 7, the drivers 2340a, 2340b can be used with the staple cartridge 2020 (FIG. 7). Additionally or alternatively, the drivers 2340a, 2340b can be used with various other staple cartridges having a staple array that corresponds to the arrangement of drivers 2340a, 2340b depicted in FIG. 12.

[0280] The drivers 2340a, 2340b include multiple troughs or staple supporting cradles 2342a, 2342b, 2342c. For example, the multi-staple drivers 2340a include a first cradle 2342a and a second cradle 2342b, which are each dimensioned and structured to support a staple, such as two of the staples 2012 shown in FIG. 7. Additionally, the single-staple drivers 2340b include a third cradle 2342c, which is dimensioned and structured to support another staple, such as another of the staples 2012 shown in FIG. 7. For example, the base of a staple 2012 can reside in each cradle 2342a, 2342b, 2342c.

[0281] Referring again to the staple cartridge 2020 depicted in FIG. 7, the first cradle 2342a can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the first outer row 2035 of staple cavities 2028, the second cradle 2342b can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the intermediate row 2037 of staple cavities 2028, and the third cradle 2342c can be aligned with a staple 2012 in the inner row 2033 of staple cavities 2028. In such instances, the first cradle 2342a corresponds to an outer cradle, the second cradle 2342b corresponds to an intermediate cradle, and the third cradle 2342c corresponds to an inner cradle. Additionally, another driver arrangement can be positioned on the opposite side of the staple cartridge 2020, which can be the mirror image of the driver arrangement disclosed in FIG. 12.

[0282] Referring still to FIG. 12, each cradle 2342a, 2342b, 2342c is defined into a step and/or support portion 2345. Additionally, each of the drivers 2340a, 2340b includes a base 2348, 2349, respectively. The base 2348 of each multi-staple driver 2340a extends between the steps 2345 of the driver 2340a. Additionally, the base 2349 of each single-staple driver 2340b extends from the step 2345 thereof.

[0283] As disclosed in FIG. 12, each driver 2340a, 2340b is aligned with a firing path F₁, F₂ within a staple cartridge. Specifically, each first driver 2340a is aligned with the first firing path F₁, and each second driver 2340b is aligned with the second firing path F₂. The depicted driving wedges 2364a, 2364b are configured to move along the firing paths F₁, F₂ during a firing stroke. Additionally, the driving wedges 2364a, 2364b contact the drivers 2340a, 2340b, respectively, to lift the drivers 2240a, 2340b and the staples supported thereon.

[0284] The bases 2348, 2349 can act as counterweights to adjust and/or control the center of mass of the drivers 2340a, 2340b. For example, the geometry and material of each base 2348, 2349 can be selected to maintain and/or shift the center of mass of each driver 2340a, 2340b into alignment with the corresponding firing path F₁, F₂. As depicted in FIG. 12, the first bases 2348 include at least one cutout 2350. The dimensions, placement, and geometry of the cutouts 2350 are selected to mass balance the first drivers 2340a relative to the first firing path F₁. For example, each first base 2348 can be configured to shift or maintain the center of mass of the multi-staple driver 2340a into alignment with the first firing path F₁, and each second base 2349 can be configured to shift the center of mass of the single-staple driver 2340b into alignment with the second firing path F₂.

[0285] Additionally, the bases 2348, 2349 provide an elongated surface area for stabilizing the drivers 2340 when the driving wedges 2364a, 2364b drivingly engage the drivers 2340a, 2340b. For example, the larger footprint of the drivers 2340a, 2340b may promote stability and prevent torqueing and/or rotation of the drivers 2340a, 2340b during deployment. Moreover, because the bases 2348, 2349 provide a larger surface area, the driving force can be distributed to promote a balanced driver and staple deployment. Drivers having elongated surface areas, such as the bases 2348, 2349, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0286] Referring still to FIG. 12, the depicted driving wedges 2364a, 2364b are longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the first wedge 2364a trails the second wedge 2364b by the distance x. As further depicted in FIG. 12, the depicted drivers 2340a, 2340b are longitudinally staggered by a distance y. In the depicted arrangement, the distance x is different than the distance y, such that the driving wedges 2364a, 2364b do not contact the drivers 2340a, 2340 simultaneously. For example, in the depicted arrangement, the first wedge 2364a contacts the first driver 2340a before the second wedge 2364b contacts the second driver 2340b. In such instances, deployment of the first driver 2340a, and thus movement of the first cradle 2342a and the second cradle 2342c, is initiated before deployment of the second staple 2340b, and thus movement of the third cradle 2342c. As a result, the staples aligned with the first driver 2340a are fired before the staples aligned with the second driver 2340b.

[0287] In certain instances, it is desirable to fire a staple or a group of staples before firing another staple or group of staples. For example, to control bleeding and/or fluid flow within the stapled tissue, staples positioned further inboard, such as the staples adjacent to the longitudinal slot, and thus, adjacent to the cut line, may be fired before staples further outboard.

[0288] In other instances, the staples aligned with the second driver 2340b can be fired before the staples aligned with the first driver 2340a. Alternatively, the first driver 2340a and the second driver 2340b can be fired simultaneously, such that the three staples supported by adjacent multi-staple and single staple drivers 2340a, 2340b pierce and capture tissue simultaneously.

[0289] An arrangement of dual-staple drivers 2440 is depicted in FIG. 13. As arranged in FIG. 13, the dual-staple drivers 2440 are configured to fire staples from a staple cartridge that has four adjacent rows of staple cavities. For example, the driver arrangement depicted in FIG. 13 can be configured to fire staples from four rows of staple cavities on one side of a longitudinal slot in a cartridge body, and a corresponding mirror image driver arrangement can be configured to fire staples from four rows of staple cavities on the other side of the longitudinal slot.

[0290] In other instances, a single row of dual-staple drivers 2440 can be positioned on a first side of the a staple cartridge, and a single row of dual-staple drivers 2440 can be positioned on a second, opposite side of the staple cartridge. In such instances, the dual-staple drivers 2440 can be arranged to fire staples from two adjacent rows of staple cavities on either side of a cut line. In other instances, rows of dual-staple drivers 2440 can be added to the arrangement shown in FIG. 13. For example, the dual-staple drivers can be arranged to fire staples from six or more adjacent rows of staple cavities.

[0291] The dual-staple drivers 2440 depicted in FIG. 13 include a pair of troughs or staple supporting cradles 2442a, 2442b. For example, each dual-staple drivers 2440 includes a first cradle 2442a and a second cradle 2442b, which are dimensioned and structured to support a staple, such as one of the staples 2012 (FIG. 7). For example, the base of a staple can be positioned in each cradle 2442a, 2442b.

[0292] The first cradle 2442a of one of the dual-staple drivers 2440 can be aligned with a staple in a row of staple cavities, and the second cradle 2442b of the same dual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple in another row of staple cavities. Additionally, the first cradle 2442a of another dual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple in another row of staple cavities, and the second cradle 2442b of that dual-staple driver 2440 can be aligned with a staple in yet another row of staple cavities.

[0293] Referring still to FIG. 13, each dual-staple driver 2440 includes steps and/or support portions 2445, and each cradle 2442a, 2442b is defined into one of the steps 2445. Additionally, each of the drivers 2440 includes a base or connecting flange 2448 that extends between the steps 2445 of the dual-staple driver 2440. Because the steps 2445 are connected by the connecting flange 2448, the cradles 2442a, 2442b are linked such that coordinated and/or synchronized staple deployment can be initiated by the dual-staple driver 2440.

[0294] The steps 2445 of the drivers 2440 can be the same height. Alternatively, in some instances, a driver 2440 can include steps of different heights. In still other instances, different drivers 2440 can have steps of different heights, for example.

[0295] As disclosed in FIG. 13, each dual-staple driver 2440 overlies a pair of firing paths. Specifically, one of the drivers 2440 overlies the first and second firing paths F₁, F₂, and another of the drivers 2440 overlies the third and fourth firing paths F₃, F₄. Multiple driving wedges 2464a, 2464b, 2464b, 2464d are also depicted in FIG. 13. As shown in FIG. 13, the driving wedges 2464a, 2464b, 2464c, 2464d are configured to contact the dual-staple drivers 2440 to lift the dual-staple drivers 2240 and the staples positioned thereon.

[0296] Referring still to FIG. 13, each step 2445 includes a center of mass (COM). Additionally, each of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃, F₄ is aligned with a center of mass of a step 2045. As a result, each step 2445 is mass balanced relative to the corresponding firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃, F₄.

[0297] In various instances, the base 2448 extending between the steps 2445 can also be mass balanced relative to the respective firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃, F₄, such that the base 2448 maintains the mass balance of the dual-staple driver 2440. In some instances, the base 2448 can contribute an insignificant and/or negligible shift and/or variation to the mass balance of the dual-staple driver 2440. In such instances, the mass balance of the drivers 2240 can be approximated by the mass balance of the steps 2445 thereof, for example.

[0298] Referring still to FIG. 13, the depicted driving wedges 2464a, 2464b are longitudinally staggered by a distance x. For example, the first wedge 2464a trails the second wedge 2464b by the distance x. Additionally, the center of mass (COM) of the steps 2445 of each dual-staple driver 2440 are longitudinally staggered by the distance x. In such instances, the driving wedges 2464a, 2464b can move into engagement with the driver 2440 simultaneously. Because the wedges 2464a, 2464c contact each driver 2444 simultaneously, deployment of the pair of staples supported by each driver 2440 can be synchronized, and the staples can be simultaneously driven or fired into tissue. Longitudinally staggered wedges, like the wedges 2464a, 2464b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0299] In various instances, the geometry of a driving wedge can be selected, in combination with an arrangement of staples and drivers within a staple cartridge, to balance the forces exerted upon the staples and drivers during deployment. Additionally, in certain instances, the geometry of the driving wedge can be selected to coordinate the deployment of staples.

[0300] For example, a driver can include staggered and/or longitudinally offset driving wedges, which can be configured to simultaneously engage an angularly-oriented staple and/or an angularly-oriented driver within the staple cartridge. For example, staggered driving wedges can move into engagement with a first or proximal end of a driver and a second or distal end of the same driver at the same time. Because both ends of the angled driver are engaged by the staggered wedges simultaneously, the staggered driving wedges concurrently lift the driver. As a result, torqueing and/or rotation of the driver during deployment, and thus the staple supported thereon, may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

[0301] In other driverless embodiments, further described herein, staggered driving wedges can move into engagement with a first or proximal end of an angled staple and a second or distal end of the same angled staple at the same time. Because both ends of the angled staple are engaged by the staggered wedges simultaneously, the staggered driving wedges concurrently lift the staple. As a result, torqueing and/or rotation of the staple during deployment may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

[0302] Additionally or alternatively, the geometry of a driver can define at least one firing path that is aligned with non-angularly-oriented staples and/or drivers within the staple cartridge. For example, the firing path can be collinear with the axes of various drivers and staples that are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge. Because the firing path is collinear with the staple and/or driver axis, the staple and/or driver can be balanced relative to the driving wedge, and torqueing and/or rotation of the driver and/or the staple can be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

[0303] An arrangement of drivers 2540, staples 2512a, 2512b, and driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, 2564c of a wedge sled 2558 is depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15. The driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, 2564c disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to move along the firing paths F₁, F₂, and F₃ (FIG. 14), respectively, which extend through a staple cartridge. In various instances, the arrangement of drivers 2540 can be utilized in a staple cartridge having an arrangement of staples 2512a, 2512b and staple cavities that corresponds to the depicted driver arrangement.

[0304] As disclosed in FIG. 14, the drivers 2540 and the staples 2512a, 2512b are arranged in multiple rows 2534, 2536. Additionally, various drivers 2540 and staples 2512a in each row are oriented parallel to a longitudinal axis L, and various drivers 2540 and staples 2512b in each row are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example, the depicted arrangement includes a pair of longitudinal rows 2534, 2536, and the drivers 2540 and staples 2512a, 2512b in each row 2534, 2536 alternate between a parallel orientation and an angled orientation relative to the longitudinal axis L. For example, the drivers 2540 shown in the first row 2534 include a first driver 2540a angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, a second driver 2540b oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L, a third driver 2540c angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L, and a fourth driver 2540d oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0305] As disclosed in FIG. 14, the second driver 2540b and the fourth driver 2540d of the first row 2534 are aligned with the first firing path F₁. More particularly, both the proximal ends 2546 and the distal ends 2544 of the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540d are aligned with the first firing path F₁. In such instances, the first firing path F₁ extends through the center of masses (COM) of the second driver 2540b and the fourth driver 2540d. Because the first firing path F₁ is aligned with the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540d, the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540d are mass balanced relative to the first firing path F₁ and torqueing and/or rotation of the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540d shown in FIG. 14, and thus the staples supported thereon, may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

[0306] As disclosed in FIG. 14, the first driver 2540a is aligned with an axis A, which traverses the longitudinal axis L and the firing paths F₁, F₂, and F₃. Additionally, the third driver 2540c is oriented parallel to the axis A. As depicted in FIG. 14, the first and third drivers 2540a, 2540c are oriented at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis L and overlie multiple firing paths. For example, the depicted first and third drivers 2540a, 2540c overlie the first and second firing paths F₁, F₂. As depicted in FIG. 14, the first firing path F₁ extends through the proximal ends 2546 of the first and third drivers 2540a, 2540c, and the second firing path F₂ extends through the distal ends 2544 of the first and third drivers 2540a, 2540c.

[0307] The center of masses (COM) of the first and second drivers 2540a, 2540c are intermediate the first firing path F₁ and the second firing path F₂. For example, the center of masses of the first and second drivers 2540a, 2540c are equidistant from the first firing path F₁ and the second firing path F₂, and thus, the drivers 2540a, 2540c are mass balanced relative to the first and second firing paths F₁, F₂. As a result, torqueing and/or rotation of the second and fourth drivers 2540b, 2540d shown in FIG. 14, and thus the staples supported thereon, may be prevented, limited, and/or controlled.

[0308] Additionally, the driving wedges 2564a, 2564c, 2564c shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are longitudinally staggered. For example, the first driving wedge 2564a distally trails the second driving wedge 2564b by a distance x and the second driving wedge 2564b distally trails the third driving wedge 2564c by the distance x. As depicted in FIG. 14, the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of the angularly-oriented third driver 2540c are offset by a longitudinal distance y. In the arrangement depicted in FIGS. 14 and 15, the longitudinal distance y between the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of third driver 2540c equals the longitudinal distance x between the first driving wedge 2564a, which is aligned with the proximal end 2546 of the third driver 2540c, and the second driving wedge 2564b, which is aligned with the distal end 2544 of the third driver 2540c.

[0309] In the arrangement disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first driving wedge 2564a and the second driving wedge 2564b moves into engagement with the third driver 2540c simultaneously. For example, the first driving wedge 2564a contacts the proximal end 2546 of the third staple driver 2540c as the second driving wedge 2564b contacts the distal end 2544 of the third staple driver 2540c. Because the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, 2564c depicted in FIG. 14 are configured to engage the ends of the angled drivers, the lifting force is applied directly below the legs of the staple that is supported on the angled third driver 2540c. As a result, the staple legs are further stabilized, and tilting and/or tipping of the staples legs during deployment can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

[0310] The first and second driving wedges 2564a, 2564b shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to similarly engage additional drivers 2540 in the first row 2534, and can sequentially deploy the staples 2512a, 2512b supported thereon. For example, the first driving wedge 2564a is configured to subsequently contact the proximal end 2546 of the first driver 2540a as the second driving wedge 2564b contacts the distal end 2544 of the first driver 2440a. Additionally, the first driving wedge 2564a is configured to sequentially engage and fire the parallel drivers 2540b, 2540d and staples 2512a in the first row 2534.

[0311] In various instances, the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of the third driver 2540c can be equidistant from the center of mass of the third driver 2540c. Because the driving wedges 2464a and 2464b disclosed in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to simultaneously contact the opposing ends of the angularly-oriented third staple driver 2540c and to exert a driving and/or lifting force on the opposing ends of the staple driver 2540c equidistant from the center of mass, the staple driver 2540c is balanced throughout its deployment. As a result, rotation and/or torqueing of the third staple driver 2540c may be prevented, avoided, and/or controlled.

[0312] In other instances, the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b may not contact the ends 2546, 2544 of the angled staple drivers 2540. In such instances, however, the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b may be configured to engage the angled staple drivers 2540 at a location that is equidistant from the center of mass of the driver 2540. Moreover, the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b can be sufficiently offset to simultaneously contact and lift the spaced locations of the driver 2540c.

[0313] Additionally, the second and third driving wedges 2564b, 2564c shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 are configured to similarly engage the drivers 2540 in the second row 2536 and sequentially deploy the staples 2512a, 2512b supported thereon. Referring still to the arrangement depicted in FIG. 14, for example, the drivers 2540 in the second row 2536 are oriented at an angle such that the distance between the proximal end 2546 and the distal end 2544 of each driver is also separated by the longitudinal distance y, which equals the longitudinal distance x between the second driving wedge 2564b and the third driving wedge 2564c.

[0314] In other instances, the longitudinal distance between the second driving wedge 2564b and the third driving wedge 2564c can be greater than and/or less than the longitudinal distance between the first driving wedge 2564a and the second driving wedge 2564b. Additionally or alternatively, the angled staples 2512b in the second row 2536 can be oriented at a different angle than the angled staples 2512b in the first row 2534. Moreover, in various instances, additional rows of drivers 2540 and staples 2512a, 2512b can be added to the arrangement depicted in FIG. 14, and additional driving wedges can be configured to engage the additional drivers 2540 to fire the additional staples 2512a, 2512b. In still other instances, the arrangement can further include a single row of drivers 2540 and staples 2512a, 2512b, for example.

[0315] The arrangement of staples 2512a, 2512b depicted in FIG. 14 can also be fired from a driverless staple cartridge. For example, referring to FIG. 16, the staples 2512a, 2512b can be arranged within a driverless cartridge, such as the staple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example, which is further described herein. The staples 2512a, 2512b in a driverless staple cartridge can be directly engaged and/or driven by a sled and/or a firing member. For example, the staples 2512a, 2512b can include a sled-engagement surface, which is configured to be directly engaged by a staple-engagement surface of one or more of the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, and/or 2564c of the wedge sled 2558.

[0316] As described herein, each staple 2512a, 2512b can be mass balanced relative to the firing path(s) F₁, F₂, F₃ that is/are aligned with the staple 2512a, 2512b. For example, referring to FIG. 16, the staples 2512a, which are arranged parallel to the longitudinal axis L, are aligned with one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃. In the depicted arrangement, one of the driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, 2564c drivingly engages the parallel staples 2512a along the length of the base of the staple 2512a. Additionally, the center of mass of each parallel staple 2512a is aligned with one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃. Stated differently, one of the firing paths F₁, F₂, F₃ extends through the center of mass of each parallel staple 2512a, and thus, the staples 2512a are mass balanced relative to the respective firing path F₁, F₂, F₃ during deployment. In such an arrangement, torqueing and/or rotation of the staples 2512a during firing can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

[0317] Additionally, where the staple arrangement depicted in FIG. 14 is utilized in a driverless cartridge, a pair of offset driving wedges 2564a, 2564b, 2564c is configured to simultaneously move into engagement with each angularly-oriented staple 2512b. For example, the first and second driving wedges 2564a, 2564b are configured to simultaneously contact an angled staple 2512b in the first row 2534, and the second and third driving wedges 2564b, 2564c are configured to simultaneously contact an angled staple 2512b in the second row 2536. Thereafter, the wedge sled 2558 is configured to continue to translate relative to the staples 2512a, 2512b, to sequentially contact and directly drive the staples 2512a, 2512b from the driverless staple cartridge.

[0318] As described herein, a driverless staple cartridge can be employed to hold and fire a staple array that includes angularly-oriented staples. An end effector assembly 2600 including the first jaw 2002, the second jaw 2004, the frame 2006, the articulation joint 2009, and a driverless staple cartridge 2620 is disclosed in FIG. 37. The staple cartridge 2620 can be a single-use and/or disposable cartridge, which can be replaced with another staple cartridge after firing. FIG. 37 discloses a staple cartridge 2620 that includes a deck 2626, a cartridge body 2624, and a casing 2622, which partially surrounds or encloses the cartridge body 2624. Additionally, an array of staples, such as the staples 2612 (FIGS. 39A and 39B), for example, can be removably positioned in the cartridge body 2624.

[0319] In certain instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can be integrally formed with the end effector assembly 2600 and/or can be permanently fixed within one of the jaws 2002, 2004, for example. In such instances, the end effector assembly 2600 can be a single-use and/or disposable end effector. In other instances, the staple cartridge 2620 can be fixed to the end effector assembly 2600, and may be reloaded with additional staples for subsequent firings, for example.

[0320] Referring to the staple cartridge 2620 depicted in FIG. 37, a longitudinal slot 2632 is defined at least partially though the cartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632 extends along a longitudinal axis L, which extends between a proximal end 2623 and a distal end 2625 of the cartridge body 2624. The longitudinal slot 2632 shown in FIG. 37 extends from the proximal end 2623 toward the distal end 2625 and traverses a portion of the length of the cartridge body 2624.

[0321] In some instances, the longitudinal slot 2632 can traverse the entire length of the cartridge body 2624. In other instances, the longitudinal slot 2632 can extend from the distal end 2623 toward the proximal end 2625, for example. In still other instances, the cartridge body 2624 may not include a predefined and/or preformed longitudinal slot. For example, a firing member and/or a cutting element can transect and/or cut the cartridge body 2624 during the firing stroke, for example.

[0322] The staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in FIG. 37 is configured to fire an array of angled staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B), which can be oriented like the staple array 2011 shown in FIG. 7, for example. The angled staples 2612 can be removably positioned in angled staple cavities 2628, shown in FIG. 37, which are defined into the cartridge body 2624. For example, the depicted staple cavities 2628 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L. Additionally, the depicted arrangement of staple cavities 2628 corresponds to the arrangement of staples 2612 positioned in the cartridge 2620. Each staple cavity 2628 shown in FIG. 37 includes an opening 2630 in the deck 2626, and each opening 2630 includes a proximal end and a distal end. A staple axis can extend between the proximal end and the distal end, and the staple axis of the openings 2630 shown in FIG. 37 are skewed and/or angled relative to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2624. In the staple cartridge 2620 of FIG. 37, all the staple cavities 2628 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L and various staple cavities 2628 are angularly-oriented relative to other staple cavities 2628.

[0323] The staple cavities 2628 depicted in FIG. 37 are arranged in multiple rows on each side of the longitudinal slot 2632. For example, the staple cavities 2628 are arranged in a first inside row 2633, a first outside row 2635, and a first intermediate row 2637 on a first side 2627 of the longitudinal slot 2632, and staple cavities 2628 are arranged in a second inside row 2634, a second outside row 2638, and a second intermediate row 2636 on a second side 2629 of the longitudinal slot 2632. Though the staple cavities 2628 do not cross or otherwise contact each other, the longitudinal rows 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 of staple cavities 2628 overlap. For example, a staple cavity 2628 extends laterally outboard and/or inboard past the staple cavity 2628 in an adjacent row of staple cavities 2628, and a staple cavity 2628 extends proximally and/or distally past the staple cavity 2628 in an adjacent row of staple cavities 2628. Because the staple cavities 2628 and the staples positioned therein are arranged in an overlapping array, bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue can be controlled. In the staple cartridge 2620 depicted in FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628 and rows thereof are symmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2632.

[0324] In other instances, greater than or fewer than three rows of staple cavities 2628 can be positioned on each side of the longitudinal slot 2632 and, in some instances, one of the sides 2627, 2629 of the staple cartridge 2620 can include a different number of rows of staple cavities 2628 than the other side 2627, 2629 of the staple cartridge 2620. In some instances, the staple cavities 2628 may not longitudinally and/or laterally overlap the staple cavities 2628 in adjacent rows. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, the staple cavities 2628 and/or the rows thereof can be asymmetrical relative to the longitudinal slot 2632 and/or the longitudinal axis L.

[0325] Referring still to FIG. 37, the depicted staple cavities 2628 in each longitudinal row are parallel or substantially parallel. In other words, the staple cavities 2628 in the first inside row 2633 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the first outside row 2635 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the first intermediate row 2637 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the second inside row 2634 are parallel to each other, the staple cavities 2628 in the second outside row 2636 are parallel to each other, and the staple cavities 2628 in the second intermediate row 2638 are parallel to each other.

[0326] As also depicted in FIG. 37, the staple cavities 2628 in each longitudinal row are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 in the adjacent longitudinal row(s) on the same side of the longitudinal slot 2632. For example, on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624, the staple cavities 2628 in the first intermediate row 2637 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 in the first inner row 2633 and in the first outer row 2635. Additionally, on the second side 2629 of the cartridge body 2624, the staple cavities 2628 in the second intermediate row 2638 are angularly-oriented relative to the staple cavities 2628 in the second inner row 2634 and the second outer row 2636.

[0327] In other instances, only a portion of the staples cavities 2628 in each longitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 may be parallel to each other and/or less than all of the longitudinal rows 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can include staple cavities 2628 that are parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, in certain instances, at least a portion of the staple cavities 2628 can be randomly oriented. In some instances, at least one of the staple cavities 2628 in a longitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638 can be parallel to at least one of the staple cavities 2628 in an adjacent longitudinal row 2633, 2634, 2635, 2636, 2637, 2638. In certain instances, a staple cartridge 2620 can include at least one staple cavity 2628 that is parallel to the longitudinal axis L of the cartridge body 2624. See, for example, FIG. 11.

[0328] Referring still to FIG. 37, the depicted end effector assembly 2600 includes a firing bar 2660 movably positioned relative to the cartridge body 2624. The firing bar 2660 is configured to traverse the cartridge body 2624 to fire the staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) from the staple cavities 2628. The depicted firing bar 2660 further includes a cutting edge 2661, which is configured to incise tissue as the firing bar 2660 translates between the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004.

[0329] The depicted firing member 2660 is dimensioned and positioned to fit within the longitudinal slot 2632, and to drivingly engage a sled, such as a sled 2658 (FIGS. 37-38B), a sled 2758 (FIGS. 39-39B) or a sled 2858 (FIG. 40) movably positioned within the driverless cartridge 2620. As the firing bar 2660 translates through the longitudinal slot 2632, the firing bar 2660 moves the sled 2658 (FIGS. 37-38B), 2758 (FIG. 39-39B), or 2858 (FIG. 40) through the cartridge body 2624.

[0330] The sled 2658 is disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B. The sled 2658 is dimensioned and positioned to directly engage the staples 2612 positioned in the driverless cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37). The depicted sled 2658 includes a central portion 2659 and driving wedges or driving rails 2664. The driving wedges 2664 include a staple-engagement or staple-contacting surface 2666, which are inclined and/or ramped surfaces extending from a distal end to a proximal end of the sled 2658. As depicted in FIGS. 37-38B, the inclined surfaces 2666 of the wedges 2664 have equal, or substantially equal, incline degrees or angles.

[0331] Each staple-contacting surface 2666 shown in FIGS. 37-38B is positioned to directly contact the staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) positioned in the staple cartridge 2620. More particularly, the staple-contacting surfaces 2666 of the driving wedges 2664 are configured to contact the base 2614 (FIG. 38B) of each staple 2612, and to lift the base 2614 of the staple 2612 upward to eject the staple 2612 from the staple cavity 2628. For example, to lift the staples 2612 from lowered and/or unfired positions to lifted and/or fired positions, the distal end 2667 of each inclined surface 2666 engages the base 2614 of the staple 2612, and the inclined surface 2666 moves distally across the base 2614 of the staple 2612.

[0332] In the depicted arrangement, the firing bar 2660 and the cutting edge 2661 thereof are configured to slide and/or translate within the longitudinal slot 2632. Additionally, the driving wedges 2664 depicted in FIGS. 37-38B, which are shown laterally outboard of the firing bar 2660 and the cutting edge 2661, and configured to contact the staples 2612 (FIGS. 38A and 38B) positioned in the staple cavities 2628 (FIG. 37). Multiple driving wedges 2664 are positioned on either side of the central portion 2659 of the wedge sled 2658. For example, in the depicted sled 2658, four driving wedges 2664a, 2664b, 2664c, 2664d are positioned on each side of the central portion 2659.

[0333] Moreover, in the arrangement disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B, multiple driving wedges 2664a, 2664b, 2664c, 2664d are configured to engage a single angled staple 2612. For example, the first and second wedges 2664a, 2664b are configured to engage staples 6212 positioned in the first outer row 2633 of staple cavities 2628, the second and third wedges 2664b, 2664c are configured to engage staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637, and the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d are configured to engage staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635.

[0334] In various circumstances, it is desirable to support and drive staples 2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 disclosed in FIG. 37 from multiple positions along the base 2614 (FIG. 38B) of the staple 2612. For example, staples 2612 that are longitudinally aligned with a firing path of a driving wedge 2664 are supported along the entire length of the base 2614 of the staple 2612. For example, when staples 2612 are angled relative to the firing paths of the sled 2658, as depicted in FIGS. 37-38B, the staples 2612 can be supported at multiple locations along the base by utilizing multiple driving wedges 2664. Because the angled staples 2612 are drivingly supported at multiple locations along the base 2614 thereof, the staples 2612 can be balanced and/or stabilized such that rotation and/or torqueing of the staples 2612 during deployment may be prevented, reduced, and/or controlled. Direct drive staples that are mass balanced relative to multiple sled-engagement surfaces, like the staples 2612, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0335] The inclined surfaces 2666 disclosed in FIGS. 37-38B are staggered. For example, the depicted inclined surfaces 2666 are longitudinally staggered such that at least one inclined surface 2666 longitudinally leads at least one other inclined surface 2666. The inclined surfaces 2666 of the second and fourth driving wedges 2664b, 2664d longitudinally lead the inclined surfaces 2666 of the first and third driving wedges 2664a, 2664c. The inclined surfaces 2666 of the second and fourth driving wedges 2664b, 2664d are taller than the inclined surfaces 2666 of the first and third driving edges 2664a, 2664c at the aligned distal ends 2667. For example, as shown in FIGS. 38 and 38B, the first and third driving wedges 2664a, 2664c have a distal height y and the second and fourth driving wedges 2664b, 2664d have a distal height x, which is less than the height y.

[0336] The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 are configured to move into engagement with the angled staples 2612 simultaneously. For example, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the first and second wedges 2664a, 2664b are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 in the first outer row 2633 (FIG. 37) of staple cavities 2628. Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the second and third wedges 2664b, 2664c are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG. 37). Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d are configured to simultaneously engage staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635 (FIG. 37).

[0337] The deployment or firing of a staple 2612 is depicted in FIGS. 38A and 38B, in which the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d of the driver 2658 are in driving engagement with the staple 2612. The third wedge 2664c can initially contact the staple 2612 at point A and the fourth wedge 2664d can initially contact the staple 2612 at point B. The third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d are configured to engage the staple 2612 simultaneously such that the staple 2612 contacts points A and B concurrently or nearly concurrently. Because of the height difference between the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d, points A and B can be longitudinally offset such that points A and B are at the same, or essentially the same, elevation.

[0338] Referring still to FIGS. 38A and 38B, as the driver 2658 continues to move distally in the staple cartridge 2620, the staple 2612 can slide up the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d to points A′ and B′ on the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d, respectively. As shown in FIG. 38B, the staple 2612 maintains a vertically upright orientation during deployment. Thereafter, the staple 2612 can continue to slide up the staple-engagement surfaces 2666 of the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d to points A″ and B″ on the third and fourth wedges 2664c, 2664d, respectively. As shown in FIG. 38B, the staple 2612 continues to maintain a vertically upright orientation. In other words, the pair of staple-engagement surfaces 2666 stabilize and/or balance the staple 2612 during deployment, such that rotation or torqueing of the staples 2612 may be prevented, minimized and/or controlled.

[0339] In other instances, the driving wedges or rails of a wedge sled can all decline to a height of zero, or essentially zero. For example, referring now to FIGS. 39-39B, the wedge sled 2758 is depicted. The wedge sled 2758 can be employed in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector 2600 (FIG. 37) to fire staples 2612 from the staple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 39A).

[0340] Similar to the sled 2658, the wedge sled 2758 disclosed in FIGS. 39-39B includes four driving wedges 2764 on either side of a central portion 2759. Each driving wedge 2764 includes an inclined, staple-engagement surface 2766, which is configured to directly engage and drive the staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2628. Also similar to the sled 2658, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the driving wedges 2764 depicted in FIGS. 39-39B are longitudinally staggered, such that the first and third driving wedges 2764a, 2764c longitudinally trail the second and fourth driving wedges 2764b, 2764d.

[0341] The longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2766 of the driving wedges 2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764d disclosed in FIGS. 39-39B are configured to move into engagement with angled staples 2612 simultaneously. For example, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the first and second wedges 2764a, 2764b are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 positioned in the first outer row 2635 (FIG. 37). Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the second and third wedges 2764b, 2764c are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG. 37). Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the third and fourth wedges 2764c, 2764d are configured to simultaneously engage angled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (FIG. 37).

[0342] Additionally, the longitudinally staggered inclined surfaces 2666 of the driving wedges 2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764d disclosed in FIGS. 39-39B are configured to drive the angled staples 2612 simultaneously. For example, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the first and second wedges 2764a, 2764b are configured to simultaneously drive angled staples 2612 in the first outer row 2635 of staple cavities 2628 (FIG. 37). Additionally, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the second and third wedges 2764b, 2764c are configured to simultaneously drive angled staples 2612 positioned in the first intermediate row 2637 (FIG. 37). Moreover, the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the third and fourth wedges 2764c, 2764d are configured to simultaneously drive angled staples 2612 positioned in the first inner row 2633 (FIG. 37).

[0343] Referring primarily to FIG. 39A, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624 are configured to move into engagement with the second staple 2612b, which is the proximal most staple and is aligned with the firing paths of the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c. Additionally, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c can be equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the second staple 2612b. As the sled 2758 continues to translate distally, the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c are configured to drivingly engage the second staple 2612b to lift and fire the staple 2612b.

[0344] In the arrangement disclosed in FIG. 39A, as the second wedge 2764b and the third wedge 2764c lift the second staple 2612b, the first wedge 2764a and the second wedge 2764b on the first side 2627 of the cartridge body 2624 are configured to move into engagement with the first staple 2612a and the third wedge 2764c and the fourth wedge 2764d on the first side 2627 are configured to move into engagement with the third staple 2612c. Additionally, as depicted in FIG. 39A, the first wedge 2764a and the second wedge 2764b are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the first staple 2612a, and the third wedge 2764c and the fourth wedge 2764d are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of the third staple 2612c. As the sled 2758 continues to translate distally, the first wedge 2764a and the second wedge 2764b drivingly engage the first staple 2612a to lift and fire the staple 2612b, and the third wedge 2764c and the fourth wedge 2764d drivingly engage the third staple 2612c to lift and fire the staple 2612c.

[0345] The paired driving wedge arrangement described above and depicted in FIG. 39A is configured to continue simultaneously engaging and lifting the staples 2612 in the staple cartridge 2620 as the sled 2758 continues to translate distally. Because the sled 2758 supports each staple 2612 at multiple locations along the base thereof, the staples 2612 are stabilized and/or balanced during deployment. Additionally, because the staple-engagement surfaces 2766 of the sled 2758 are equidistant from the center of mass (COM) of each contacted staple 2612, rotation and/or torqueing of the staples 2612 may be further prevented, minimized, or controlled. Moreover, because the driving wedges 2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764 are longitudinally staggered, the engagement of the multiple driving wedges 2764a, 2764b, 2764c, 2764 with each staple 2612 is timed and/or synchronized to balance the driving forces exerted on each staple 2612 throughout its deployment.

[0346] The driving sled 2858 is depicted in FIG. 40. The wedge sled 2758 can be employed in the staple cartridge 2620 and the end effector 2600 (FIG. 37) to fire staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2620 (FIG. 39A). Similar to the sleds 2658 and 2758, the driving sled 2858 includes multiple driving wedges 2864 on either side of a central portion 2859. Each driving wedge 2864 includes an inclined, staple-engagement surface 2866, which is configured to directly engage and drive the staples 2612 from the staple cavities 2628. Moreover, the inclined, staple-engagement surfaces 2866 are angled or sloped laterally. Because the staple-engagement surfaces 2866 are laterally and longitudinally sloped, each surface 2866 includes longitudinally offset support portions, which drivingly engage the angled staples 2612 throughout the deployment and firing thereof.

[0347] For example, the sloped staple-engagement surfaces 2866 disclosed in FIG. 40 are configured to drivingly engage the staples 2612 along a portion of the base of each staple 2612. In the arrangement depicted in FIG. 40, the driving force exerted on the staple 2612 is distributed over a larger surface area. For example, a staple-engagement surface 2866 can contact at least 50% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In other instances, the staple engagement-surface can contact at least 75% of the length of the base of the staple 2612. In still other instances, the staple engagement-surface can contact less than 50% or more than 75% the length of the base of the staple 2612. Moreover, the driving force from the sled 2858 is balanced relative to center of mass of each staple 2612 to further stabilize and balance the staple 2612 during deployment. As a result, rotation and/or torqueing of the staple 2612 may be prevented, minimized, or controlled.

[0348] As described herein, a staple array that includes staples angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or the firing path of the firing member provides various benefits. For example, such a staple array can provide improved flexibility and/or stretchability within stapled tissue. As a result, incidences of tissue tearing can be reduced. In certain instances, a staple array can also include staples with different length bases. The variable length bases within a staple array can promote increased flexibility and/or stretchability in stapled tissue. Additionally, in certain arrangements, staples having shorter bases can nest within the staple array. For example, the staples having shorter bases can be positioned in narrower spaces between staples having longer bases. Such an arrangement can densify the staple line, which can improve control of bleeding and/or fluid flow in the stapled tissue.

[0349] A staple array 3011 is depicted in FIG. 41. The array 3011 includes long staples 3012 and short staples 3013. As shown in FIG. 41, the long staples 3012 have a base length of l₁, and the short staples 3013 have a base length of l₂, which is less than l₁. In the depicted array 3011, a first long staple 3012a is aligned with an axis A_a, and a first short staple 3013 is aligned with an axis A_b, which is parallel to the axis A_a. Additional long and short staples 3012, 3013, such as staples 3012e, 3013b, 3013c, and 3013d, for example, are parallel to the axes A_a and A_b. As further disclosed in the array 3011 shown in FIG. 41, a second long staple 3012 is aligned with an axis A_c, which traverses the axes A_a and A_b. Additional long staples 3012, such as staples 3012c, 3012d, and 3012f, for example, are parallel to the axis A_c.

[0350] In other arrangements, additional short staples 3012 can also be parallel to the axis A_c. In some instances, various staples can be arranged along axes that are non-parallel to axes A_a, A_b and A_c. For example, the staple array 3011 can include staples that are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or to the firing path of a driving sled. Additionally, in various instances, the staple array 3011 can include staples having base lengths that are different than l₂ and l₁. In some instances, the staple array 3011 can include additional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of staples 3012, 3013. For example, the row of long staples 3012 aligned with the first long staple 3012a can be removed, and/or the row of long staples 3012 aligned with the second long staple 3012b can be removed, and/or the row of short staples aligned with first short staple 3013a can be removed, and/or the row of long staples 3012 aligned with the third long staple 3012c can be removed, and/or the row of short staples 3013 aligned with the second short staple 3013b can be removed, and/or the row of long staples 3013 aligned with the fourth long staple 3012d can be removed.

[0351] Referring again to FIG. 41, a short staple 3013 is embedded in the staple array 3011 intermediate two long staples 3012. For example, two long staples 3012 in the array 3011, such as the third long staple 3012c and the sixth long staple 3012f shown in FIG. 41, are parallel and laterally aligned. In such an arrangement, a space is defined between the third and sixth long staples 3012c and 3012f, and the space is configured to accommodate the third short staple 3013c. Accordingly, the third short staple 3013c in the depicted array 3011 is nestled between the third long staple 3012c and the sixth long staple 3012f. In such an arrangement, the third short staple 3013c, and similarly placed shorts staples 3013 in the array 3011, can densify the staple line by filling the spaces between the long staples 3012. In various instances, bleeding and/or fluid flow control is improved because the staple line is densified in the array 3011. Densified staple lines, like the staple array 3011, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0352] In other instances, the long staples 3012 defining a space therebetween for accommodating a short staple can be non-parallel to each other. For example, the third and sixth long staples 3012c, 3012f can be skewed and/or otherwise non-parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the long staples 3012 defining the space therebetween for accommodating a short staple 3013 can only partially laterally overlap. For example, in certain instances, the third long staple 3012c can be laterally outboard or laterally inboard relative to the sixth long staple 3012f, such that only a portion of the third and sixth staples 3012c, 3012f are laterally aligned.

[0353] An array of staples, such as the array 3011, for example, can be positioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as the driverless staple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example, and can be directly engaged and driven from the staple cartridge by a driving sled. In such instances, the staples 3012, 3013 in the array 3011 can be mass balanced relative to the driving wedges of a sled that contacts and drives the staples 3012, 3013. For example, the driving wedges can apply the firing force at the ends of the staple bases equidistant from the center of mass of each staple 3012, 3013. In other instances, the firing force can be applied at various spaced locations along the base of a staple 3012, 3013, and the cumulative firing force can be balanced relative to the staple 3012, 3013. In instances where a staple does not overlie a firing path and/or is not balanced relative to the firing path, a staple driver may be employed. For example, a multi-staple driver, as further described herein, can simultaneously lift multiple staples from a staple cartridge.

[0354] A staple array 3111 is depicted in FIG. 42. The array 3111 includes long staples 3112 and short staples 3113. As shown in FIG. 42, the long staples 3112 have a base length of l₁, and the short staples 3113 have a base length of l₂, which is less than l₁. In the depicted array 3111, a first short staple 3113a is aligned with an axis A_a, and a first long staple 3112a is aligned with an axis A_b, which traverses the axis A_a. Additional short staples 3113 are oriented parallel to the axis A_a and additional long staples 3112 are parallel to the axis A_b.

[0355] In other arrangements, at least one short staple 3113 can be oriented parallel to the axis A_b and/or at least one long staple 3112 can be oriented parallel to the axis A_a. In some instances, various staples 3112, 3113 can be arranged along axes that are non-parallel to axes A_a and A_b. For example, the staple array 3111 may include staples that are oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the staple cartridge and/or to the firing path of the driving wedges 3064, which are also depicted in FIG. 42. Additionally, in various instances, the staple array 3111 can include staples having base lengths that are different than l₂ and l₁, and/or the staple array 3111 can include additional and/or fewer longitudinal rows of staples 3112, 3113.

[0356] Referring still to FIG. 42, a short staple 3113 can be embedded in the staple array 3111 intermediate at least two laterally overlapping long staples 3112. In such an arrangement, the nested short staple 3113 in the array 3111 can densify the staple line by filling the spaces between the adjacent long staples 3112. Because the staple line is densified in the array 3111, bleeding and/or fluid flow control can be improved. Densified staple lines, like the staple array 3111, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0357] In other instances, the long staples 3112 defining a space therebetween for accommodating a short staple can be non-parallel to each other. Additionally or alternatively, the long staples 3112 defining the space therebetween for accommodating a short staple 3113 may only partially overlap.

[0358] An array of staples, such as the array 3111, for example, can be positioned in a driverless staple cartridge, such as the driverless staple cartridge 2620 (FIG. 37), for example, and can be directly engaged and driven from the staple cartridge by a driving sled, such as the sled 2058 (FIG. 37). In such instances, the staples 3112, 3113 in the array 3111 can be mass balanced relative to the driving wedges 3064 of the sled that contact and drive the staples 3112, 3113. For example, the driving wedges 3064 can apply the firing force at the ends of the staple bases equidistant from the center of mass of the staples 3112, 3113.

[0359] In other instances, the firing force can be applied at various spaced locations along the base of the staples 3112, 3113, and the cumulative firing force can be balanced relative to the staples 3112, 3113. In instances where a staple 3112, 3113 does not overlie a firing path and/or is not balanced relative to the firing path, a staple driver can be employed. For example, a multi-staple driver, as further described herein, can simultaneously lift multiple staples from a staple cartridge.

[0360] In various instances, where a sled is configured to directly drive a staple, the staple can include a sled-engagement surface and the sled can include a staple-engagement surface. The staples can be generally “V-shaped” staples having a base and non-parallelly extending legs. For example, referring again to the staple 2612 depicted in FIGS. 39B and 40, for example, the staple 2612 includes a base 2614, a first leg 2616 extending from a first end of the base 2614, and a second leg 2618 extending from a second end of the base 2614. The staple 2612 can be formed from a wire, such as a wire having a circular cross-section, and thus, the outer perimeter of the staple 2612 can consist of rounded surfaces. As a result, the sled-engagement surface of the staple 2612 can include a rounded and/or contoured surface.

[0361] In other instances, the staple 2612 can be formed from a wire having a polygonal cross-section, and thus, the outer perimeter of the staple 2612 can include edges and flat or planar surfaces. In such an embodiment, the sled-engagement surface of the staple 2612 can include at least one flat and/or planar surfaces, for example. In still other instances, the outer perimeter of the staple 2612 can include both contoured and planar surfaces. For example, the staple 2612 can be formed from a wire having a circular cross-section, which can be flattened and/or otherwise deformed to form a flat sled-engagement surface.

[0362] In certain instances, a staple can be formed from a piece of material. For example, a staple can be stamped, cut, and/or molded from a sheet of material. Various stamped staples are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/138,481, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES AND METHODS FOR MAKING THE SAME, filed Dec. 23, 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In various instances, a staple can be stamped or otherwise formed from a single piece of material, for example, and can remain a single and/or unitary piece of material, for example. In various instances, the sled-engagement surface of a staple, such as a stamped staple, can include a flat or planar surface of the stamped or otherwise formed piece. Additionally, in certain instances, the sled-engagement surface can include a groove and/or cutout, which can be configured to receive a driving wedge of a wedge sled. When a staple is angularly-oriented relative to the firing path of the driving wedge, the groove can traverse the base of the staple at an angle.

[0363] A stamped staple 2912 is depicted in FIGS. 26-28. The staple 2912 includes a base 2914, a first leg 2916, and a second leg 2918. As shown in FIGS. 26-28, the outer perimeter of the staple 2912 includes flat and contoured surfaces. Moreover, the staple 2912 includes a groove or track 2915 (FIGS. 27 and 28), which has been cut into the base 2914. The groove 2915 is configured to receive a driving wedge 2964 of a drive sled 2958.

[0364] In various instances, the width of the groove 2915 can be slightly larger than the width of the driving wedge 2964 received therein. For example, the width of the groove 2915 can be dimensioned to receive the driving wedge 2964 and prevent lateral shifting of the staple 2915 relative to the wedge 2964.

[0365] The staple 2912 depicted in FIGS. 26-28 is angularly-oriented relative to the firing path F (FIG. 28) of the driving wedge 2964. For example, the staple 2912 extends along an axis A (FIG. 27), which traverses the firing path F. As a result, the depicted groove 2915 is angularly-oriented across the base 2914 of the staple 2912. For example, the axis A can be oriented at an angle θ relative to the firing path F. The angle θ depicted in FIG. 28 is 45°.

[0366] The base 2914 has an extended length l. For example, the length l of the base 2914 is greater than the length of the staple legs 2916, 2918. Because the base 2914 is elongated, the groove 2915 includes an elongated guide surface or track for the driving wedge 2964, which promotes stability of the staple 2912 during deployment. Staples having an elongated guide or track for receiving a driving wedge, like the staples 2912, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0367] Referring primarily to FIG. 28, the staple 2912 has a center of mass (COM), which coincides with the firing path F. For example, the firing path F extends through the center of mass (COM) of the staple 2912, such that the staple 2912 is balanced relative to the driving wedge 2964. As a result, the driving force exerted on the staple 2912 can lift the staple legs 2916, 2918 simultaneously and torqueing or rotation of the staple 2912 can be prevented, minimized, and/or controlled.

[0368] In various instances, a groove or track similar to the groove 2915 can be defined into an unstamped staple. For example, a wire staple can be cut, stamped, and/or ground to create a track for slidably receiving a driving wedge. In such instances, the staple base may have the same length as the staple legs or, in other instances, the staple base can be flattened to increase or elongate the length thereof. Additionally, in certain instances, as further described herein, multiple driving wedges can drivingly engage a staple. In such instances, the staple can include multiple grooves or tracks, which can each be configured to receive a driving wedge. Moreover, in certain instances, a staple having a guide track, similar to the groove 2915, for example, can be oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of a staple cartridge. For example, a parallel staple can be longitudinally aligned with a firing path of a driving wedge. In such instances, the guide track defined into the base of the staple can extend along the base of the staple parallel thereto.

[0369] As described herein, angularly-oriented staples can provided increased flexibility and/or stretchability to stapled tissue. For example, the angled staples in an array of fired staples can pivot and/or rotate toward alignment with the cut line and/or the longitudinal axis of the staple line to facilitate lengthening and/or longitudinal deformation of the stapled tissue. Because the angled staples can pivot and/or rotate in the array of stapled tissue, tearing and/or stretching of the tissue can be reduced and/or prevented. Moreover, stresses in the tissue and/or trauma to the stapled tissue can be minimized

[0370] In addition to the longitudinal flexibility afforded by a longitudinally stretchable array of fired staples, it can be desirable to provide lateral customizations to the tissue treated by the array of staples. For example, the compressive force exerted on the tissue can be optimized and/or tailored based on the relative lateral position of the tissue relative to the staple line. In certain instances, it can be desirable to customize the compressive force on the tissue prior to stapling and/or during stapling. In other instances, it can be desirable to customize the compressive force on the stapled tissue. Moreover, in still other instances, it can be desirable to customize the compressive force on tissue prior to staling, during stapling, and after stapling, for example.

[0371] The combination of lateral tissue compression customization and longitudinal tissue flexibility can provide synergistic tissue effects. For example, when compressive forces exerted on the tissue during and/or after stapling generate less stress in the compressed tissue and/or affect reduced tissue trauma, the compressed tissue may accommodate increased elastic deformation. In other words, as optimally compressed tissue is stretched and/or elongated, the optimally compressed tissue may better accommodate the rotating and/or pivoting of staples therein. Moreover, when stapled tissue readily accommodates staple pivoting and/or shifting, stresses in the stapled tissue may be reduced and trauma to the stapled tissue may be minimized. Accordingly, as staples pivot and/or shift to accommodate for tissue elongation or longitudinal stretch, stress and/or trauma to the optimally compressed tissue can be further minimized.

[0372] A staple cartridge 3420 is depicted in FIGS. 43-45. The depicted staple cartridge 3420 includes a cartridge body 3424 and a deck 3422. Multiple staple cavities 3428 are defined into the body 3424 of the depicted staple cartridge 3420, and each staple cavity 3428 forms an opening 3430 in the deck 3422. Additionally, the staple cavities 3428 shown in FIGS. 43-45 are angularly-oriented relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44) of the staple cartridge 3420. In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, a longitudinal slot 3432 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3424, and three rows of staple cavities 3428 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3432. The arrangement of staple cavities 3428 shown in FIGS. 43-45 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, multiple staples, such as the staples 3412 (FIG. 45) are removably positioned in the staple cavities 3428.

[0373] In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the staple cavities 3428 in an outside row on a first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44), the staple cavities 3428 in an intermediate row on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a second angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in an inner row on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a third angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the third angle is the same, or generally the same, as the first angle, and the second angle is 90 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees, offset from the first angle and from the third angle.

[0374] As further depicted in FIGS. 43-45, the staple cavities 3428 in an outside row on a second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a fourth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L (FIG. 44), the staple cavities 3428 in an intermediate row on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a fifth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L, and the staple cavities 3428 in an inside row on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 are oriented at a sixth angle relative to the longitudinal axis L. In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the sixth angle is the same, or generally the same, as the fourth angle, and the fifth angle is 90 degrees, or approximately 90 degrees, offset from the fourth angle and from the sixth angle. Additionally, in the arrangement depicted in FIGS. 43-45, the second angle is the same, or generally the same, as the fourth angle and the sixth angle, and the first angle is the same, or generally the same, as the third angle and the fifth angle.

[0375] In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may include additional and/or fewer rows of staple cavities. Additionally or alternatively, the angular orientation of the staples 3412 in each row may be adjusted and/or modified to accommodate a different array. For example, in certain instances, at least one staple cavity can be parallel to the longitudinal axis L.

[0376] In various instances, the staple cartridge 3420 depicted in FIGS. 43-45 can be used with the end effector 2000 depicted in FIG. 7. For example, the staple cartridge 3420 can be loaded into the elongate channel of the second jaw 2004. Additionally, in certain instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can be fired with single-staple drivers, multi-staple drivers, and/or a combination thereof. For example, a single-staple driver 3440 (FIG. 45) can be positioned in each staple cavity 3428, and can drivingly engage the staple 3412 supported thereon. The drivers 3440 shown in FIG. 45 can be positioned within the cartridge body 3424 such that the cradle of each driver 3440 is aligned with one of the staples 3412 positioned in one of the staple cavities 3428.

[0377] In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3420 can include multi-staple drivers. For example, a multi-staple driver can be configured to fire the staples 3412 (FIG. 45) from a first group of staple cavities 3428, and another multi-staple driver can be configured to fire staples 3412 from a second group of staple cavities 3428. In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may not include drivers. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2660 and the sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples 3412. In various instances, the drivers 3440 and/or the staples 3412 can be mass balanced relative to the firing path(s) of a sled, such as the sled 2058 (FIG. 7) and/or sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example, during deployment.

[0378] The deck 3422 depicted in FIGS. 43-45 includes multiple longitudinally extending portions. For example, the deck 3422 includes a first longitudinal portion 3422a, a second longitudinal portion 3422b, and a third longitudinal portion 3422c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3432, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3422d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3422e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3422f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in FIGS. 43-45, a longitudinal row of staple cavities 3428 is aligned with each longitudinally extending portion 3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422f. For example, the outside row of staple cavities 3428 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the first longitudinal portion 3422a, the intermediate row of staple cavities 3428 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the second longitudinal portion 3422b, and the inside row of staple cavities 3428 on the first side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the third longitudinal portion 3422c. Additionally, the outside row of staple cavities 3428 on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the fourth longitudinal portion 3422d, the intermediate row of staple cavities 3428 on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the fifth longitudinal portion 3422e, and the inside row of staple cavities 3428 on the second side of the longitudinal slot 3432 is aligned with the sixth longitudinal portion 3422f.

[0379] In other instances, the staple cartridge 3420 may include additional and/or fewer longitudinally extending portions. For example, the longitudinal portions can be adjusted and/or modified to correspond to a different arrangement of staple cavities and staples. In certain embodiments, more than one longitudinal row of staple cavities can coincide with at least one longitudinal portion. Additionally or alternatively, at least one longitudinal portion may not include a staple cavity and/or a row of staples, for example.

[0380] In the depicted staple cartridge 3420, the adjacent longitudinal portions 3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, and 3422f are vertically offset from each other by a ridge 3423. For example, a ridge 3423 extends between the first portion 3422a and the second portion 3422b, and another ridge 3423 extends between the second portion 3422b and the third portion 3422c. Additionally, in the depicted arrangement, a ridge 3423 extends between the fourth portion 3422d and the fifth portion 3422e, and another ridge 3423 extends between the fifth portion 3422e and the sixth portion 3422f. As shown in FIGS. 43-45, the longitudinal slot 3432 extends between the third portion 3422c and the fourth portion 3422d.

[0381] The ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 define an elevation change in the deck 3422. For example, the ridge 3423 between the first portion 3422a and the second portion 3422b defines a step upward, such that the second portion 3422b has a higher elevation than the first portion 3422. In various instances, the ridges 3423 adjust the height of the deck 3422 laterally. For example, the ridges 3423 increase the height of the deck 3422 inwardly and decrease the height of the deck 3422 outwardly, such that the largest height is adjacent to the longitudinal slot 3432 and the laterally flanking portions have the shortest height.

[0382] The gap between the deck 3422 and the staple forming surface of the anvil controls the degree of tissue compression when the jaws of an end effector, such as the first jaw 2002 and the second jaw 2004 of the end effector 2000 (FIG. 7) are clamped. Accordingly, the height of the deck 3422 can affect the degree of tissue compression between the clamped jaws. For example, in regions where the deck 3422 is taller, the adjacent tissue can be relatively more compressed between the clamped jaws, and in regions where the deck 3422 is shorter, the adjacent tissue can be relatively less compressed between the clamped jaws. Accordingly, the ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 can affect a lateral variation in tissue compression. As further described herein, the degrees of tissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because the staple cartridge 3420 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3412, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be further preserved.

[0383] The ridges 3423 disclosed in FIGS. 43-45 affect abrupt and/or steep steps between the adjacent longitudinal portions 3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, and 3422f. FIGS. 43-45 further disclose that the ridges 3423 curve around the staple cavities 3428 in the adjacent rows of staple cavities 3428. For example, the ridges 3423 generally extend along a path that corresponds to and/or matches the angular orientation of the staple cavity or cavities 3428 adjacent thereto. As a result, the ridges 3423 include multiple contours and/or bends. Additionally, the ridges 3423 include multiple straight, or generally straight portions, intermediate the contours.

[0384] In other instances, a ridge 3423 may define a less steep elevation change. For example, at least one ridge 3423 and/or a portion thereof can gradually slope and/or incrementally step to a different elevation. Additionally, in certain instances, the height of a longitudinal portion 3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422f can vary. For example, the height of each longitudinal portion 3422a, 3422b, 3422c, 3422d, 3422e, 3422f can vary laterally and/or longitudinally. In such instances, the deck may define sloped and/or angled surfaces intermediate the ridges 3423, for example.

[0385] In other staple cartridges, ridges can extend along a different path between the rows of staples and staple cavities. For example, the staple cartridge 3520, which is shown in FIGS. 46-48, is similar to the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3520 includes a cartridge body 3524 and a deck 3522. Multiple staple cavities 3528 are defined into the body 3524 of the depicted staple cartridge 3520, and each staple cavity 3528 forms an opening 3530 in the deck 3422. Additionally, the staple cavities 3528 shown in FIGS. 46-48 match the array of staple cavities 3428 depicted in FIGS. 43-45. For example, in the depicted staple cartridge 3520, a longitudinal slot 3532 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3524, and three rows of staple cavities 3528 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3532. The arrangement of staple cavities 3528 shown in FIGS. 46-48 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, multiple staples, such as the staples 3412 (FIG. 45) can be removably positioned in the staple cavities 3528.

[0386] The deck 3522 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48 includes multiple longitudinally extending portions. For example, the depicted deck 3522 includes a first longitudinal portion 3522a, a second longitudinal portion 3522b, and a third longitudinal portion 3522c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3532, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3522d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3522e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3522f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3432. As shown in FIGS. 46-48, a longitudinal row of staple cavities 3528 is aligned with each longitudinally extending portion 3522a, 3522b, 3522c, 3522d, 3522e, 3522f. Additionally, in the depicted staple cartridge 3520, the adjacent longitudinal portions 3522a, 3522b, 3522c, 3522d, 3522e, and 3522f are vertically offset from each other by a ridge 3523.

[0387] The ridges 3523 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48 extend along different paths than the ridges 3423 of the deck 3422 (FIGS. 43-45). For example, the ridges 3423 include multiple cut-ins, such as cut-ins 3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d (FIG. 47), for example, where the ridges 3523 do not extend along and/or adjacent to a staple cavity 3528. The geometry of the cut-ins 3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d can be selected to adjust the tissue compression. For example, a cut-in can enlarge a region of reduced pressure and reduce an adjacent region of increased pressure. In various instances, it may be desirable to provide the cut-ins 3523a, 3523b, 3523c, and 3523d towards the knife slot 3532 to provide regions of reduced tissue compression, for example.

[0388] As further described herein, the ridges 3523 disclosed in FIGS. 46-48 can affect a lateral variation in tissue compression. For example, the degrees of tissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because the staple cartridge 3520 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3512, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be further preserved.

[0389] In other instances, the ridges on a cartridge deck can be straight or generally straight. For example, the staple cartridge 3620, which is shown in FIGS. 49-51, is similar to the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3620 includes a cartridge body 3624 and a deck 3622. Multiple staple cavities 3628 are defined into the body 3624 of the depicted staple cartridge 3620, and each staple cavity 3628 forms an opening 3630 in the deck 3622. Additionally, the staple cavities 3628 shown in FIGS. 49-51 match the arrangement of staple cavities 3528 depicted in FIGS. 46-48. For example, in the depicted staple cartridge 3620, a longitudinal slot 3632 is defined partially through the cartridge body 3624, and three rows of staple cavities 3628 are positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3632. The arrangement of staple cavities 3628 shown in FIGS. 46-48 is configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, multiple staples, such as staples 3612 (FIG. 51) are removably positioned in the staple cavities 3628.

[0390] The deck 3622 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51 includes multiple longitudinally extending portions. For example, the depicted deck 3622 includes a first longitudinal portion 3622a, a second longitudinal portion 3622b, and a third longitudinal portion 3622c on one side of the longitudinal slot 3632, and a fourth longitudinal portion 3622d, a fifth longitudinal portion 3622e, and a sixth longitudinal portion 3622f on the other side of the longitudinal slot 3632. As shown in FIGS. 49-51, a longitudinal row of staple cavities 3628 is aligned with each longitudinally extending portion 3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, 3622f. Additionally, in the depicted staple cartridge 3620, the adjacent longitudinal portions 3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, and 3622f are vertically offset from each other by a ridge 3623.

[0391] The ridges 3623 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51 extend along different paths than the ridges 3423 of the deck 3422 (FIGS. 43-45) and the ridges 3523 of the deck 3522 (FIGS. 46-48). For example, the ridges 3623 extend along straight paths, which extend parallel to the longitudinal slot 3632. Moreover, a portion of the longitudinal ridges 3523 extend through staple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620. As a result, one end or side of a staple cavity 3628 is positioned in one of the longitudinal deck portions 3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, or 3622f, and the other end or side of the same staple cavity 3628 is positioned in another of the longitudinal deck portions 3622a, 3622b, 3622c, 3622d, 3622e, or 3622f.

[0392] As further described herein, the ridges 3623 disclosed in FIGS. 49-51 can affect a lateral variation in tissue compression. For example, the degrees of tissue compression can be selected and/or optimized to reduce stress and/or trauma to the compressed tissue. Moreover, because the staple cartridge 3620 is configured to fire a longitudinally flexible array of staples 3612, the integrity of the stapled tissue can be further preserved.

[0393] In certain instances, the staple cartridge 3620 includes multi-staple drivers, such as the multi-staple drivers 3640 disclosed in FIG. 51. Each multi-staple driver 3640 is configured to fire the staples 3612 from a group of staple cavities 3628. For example, similar to the multi-staple drivers 2040a, 2040b (FIGS. 7-9), the multi-staple drivers 3640 include three steps 3645, and a trough or cradle 3642 is defined into each step 3645. Additionally, the steps 3645 of the multi-staple drivers 3640 are connected by a connecting flange 3648. Each multi-staple driver 3640 shown in FIG. 51 supports staples 3612 across multiple rows of staple cavities 3628, and is configured to fire staples 3612 from staples cavities 3628 in multiple rows. In FIG. 51, the height of each step 3645 and the depth of each cradle 3642 defined therein is the same, such that the staples 3612 formed between the steps 3645 and a staple forming surface on the anvil have the same formed height.

[0394] As further described herein, it may be desirable to customize and/or optimize the formed staple height to affect varied tissue compression within formed staples. Accordingly, at least one of the multi-staple drivers 3640 can be modified to form staples 3612 of different formed heights. For example, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of a staple multi-staple driver 3640 can be modified to have different dimensions, such that at least two of the staples 3612 formed by the modified multi-staple driver 3640 have different formed heights. In other instances, the steps 3645 and/or the cradles 3642 of different staple drivers 3640 can be modified, such that a first driver 3640 is configured to form staples 3612 having a first formed height and a second driver 3640 is configured to form staples having a second, different formed height 3612.

[0395] In still other instances, the staple cartridge 3620 may include single-staple drivers. Alternatively, the staple cartridge 3620 may not include drivers. For example, a firing member and/or sled, such as the firing member 2660 and/or the sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example, can be configured to directly contact, engage, and/or drive the staples 3612. In various instances, the drivers 3640 and/or the staples 3612 can be mass balanced relative to the firing path(s) of a sled, such as sled 2058 (FIG. 7) and/or sled 2658 (FIG. 37), for example.

[0396] As described herein, to customize and/or optimize the tissue compression within a formed staple, staples in a staple array can be formed to different formed heights. For example, in various instances, it is desirable to vary tissue compression, and thus the formed staple dimensions, laterally. In such circumstances, tissue closer to the cut line can be compressed more than tissue farther from the cut line, for example. Various staple arrays having different unformed heights and/or different formed heights are described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,866,528, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Jan. 1, 2011; U.S. Pat. No. 7,726,537, entitled SURGICAL STAPLER WITH UNIVERSAL ARTICULATION AND TISSUE PRE-CLAMP, which issued on Jun. 1, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 7,641,091, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Jan. 5, 2010; U.S. Pat. No. 7,635,074, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Dec. 22, 2009; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,997,469, entitled STAPLE DRIVE ASSEMBLY, which issued on Aug. 16, 2011, which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their respective entireties.

[0397] Referring again to FIGS. 49-51, in various instances, the staple cartridge 3620 can be employed with an end effector that is configured to deform the staples 3612 to different formed heights. The angled staple cavities 3628 in the staple cartridge 3620 are arranged in a plurality of rows. For example, angled the staple cavities 3628 are arranged in a first outer row, a first intermediate row, and a first inner row on a first side of the staple cartridge 3620, and the angled staple cavities 3628 are arranged in a second outer row, a second intermediate row, and a second inner row on a second side of the staple cartridge 3620. In various instances, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can assume a taller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row can assume a taller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first inner row. Additionally or alternatively, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second outer row can assume a taller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row can assume a taller formed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second inner row.

[0398] In certain instances, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cartridge 3620 can have different unformed heights. For example, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first outer row can have a greater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first intermediate row can have a greater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the first inner row. Additionally or alternatively, the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second outer row can have a greater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row, and/or the staples 3612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second intermediate row can have a greater unformed height than the staples 2612 fired from the staple cavities 3628 in the second inner row.

[0399] In various instances, staple arrays having different unformed heights and/or different formed heights can be incorporated into various staple cartridges described herein. For example, the staple cartridge 3420 (FIGS. 43-45) and/or the staple cartridge 3520 (46-48) can include staples having different unformed heights and/or can be configured to fire staples to different formed heights. In such instances, the stepped cartridge decks 3422 (FIGS. 43-45), 3522 (FIGS. 46-48), and 3622 (FIGS. 49-51) can affect variable pre-firing tissue compression, for example, and the different formed staple heights can affect variable post-firing tissue compression, for example.

[0400] As described herein, angled staple arrays provide improved flexibility to the stapled tissue. A staple that is angled relative to the cut line and/or the longitudinal axis of staple cartridge can have one staple leg closer to the cut line than another staple leg. In such an arrangement, to customize and/or optimize the tissue compression laterally, the staple can be formed to different formed heights. For example, one end of a staple can be formed to a first height, and the other end of the staple can be formed to a second, different height. In such instances, tissue treated by the same row of staples could be subjected to different compressive forces.

[0401] A staple cartridge 3720 and an anvil 3703 are depicted in FIG. 79. The staple cartridge 3720 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (FIGS. 49-51) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3720 includes a cartridge body 3724 and a deck 3722. The deck 3722 includes multiple longitudinally extending portions 3722a, 3722b, 3722c, and adjacent longitudinal portions 3722a, 3722b, 3722c are separated by a ridge 3723. The ridges 3723 extend longitudinally along at least a portion of the length of the cartridge body 3722. An angled staple cavity 3728 is defined into the cartridge body 3724, and a ridge 3723 extends through the staple cavity 3728. As a result, the first end of the depicted staple cavity 3728 is positioned in the first longitudinal portion 3722a and the second end of the depicted staple cartridge 3728 is positioned in the second longitudinal portion 3722b. Additionally, a longitudinal slot 3732 is defined partially through the depicted cartridge body 3724.

[0402] In various instances, the staple cartridge 3720 can include multiple staple cavities 3728, which are configured to receive an array of angled staples 3712. For example, the staple cartridge 3720 can include an arrangement of staple cavities 3728 that corresponds to the arrangement of staple cavities 3628 depicted in FIGS. 49-51. In certain instances, three rows of staple cavities 3728 can be positioned on both sides of the longitudinal slot 3732, for example.

[0403] An unformed staple 3712 and a deformed staple 3712′ are depicted in FIG. 79. The staple 3712 includes a base 3714, a first leg 3716 extending from the base 3714, and a second leg 3718 extending from the base 3714. A driver 3740 is also depicted in FIG. 79. The driver 3740 includes a trough or cradle 3742, which is configured to support the base 3714 of the staple 3712. The driver 3740 and the cradle 3742 defined therein have a variable height between a first end 3741 and a second end 3743 of the driver 3740. For example, the first end 3741 of the driver 3740 defines a first height and the second end 3743 of the driver 3740 defines a second height, which is less than the first height.

[0404] As the driver 3740 is fired and lifted within the staple cavity 3728, the staple 3712 rides upward on the lifting driver 3740 and is deformed by the staple forming pockets 3705 of the anvil 3703. The formed staple 3712′ is also depicted in FIG. 79. The formed height of the staple 3712′ is a function of the distance or gap between the lifted driver 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 of the anvil 3703. Because the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3742 of the lifted driver 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 varies in the staple cartridge 3720 disclosed in FIG. 79, the formed staple 3712′ has a variable height. For example, the height of formed staple 3712′ is greater between the first leg 3716′ and the base 3714′ than between the second leg 3718′ and the base 3714′. In various instances, the angular orientation of the staple 3712′ can place the first leg 3716′ farther from the longitudinal slot 3732 than the second leg 3718′. In such instances, the first leg 3716′ can be an outer leg of the staple 3712′ and the second leg 3718′ can be an inner leg of the staple 3712′. In such an arrangement, the tissue compression can be greater between the inner leg 3718′ and the base 3714′ than between the outer leg 3716′ and the base 3714′.

[0405] Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements that are configured to deform angled staples to different formed heights, like the staple cartridge 3720 and the anvil 3705, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, drivers having a variable height staple-supporting cradle, like the drivers 2740, for example, could be incorporated into other staple cartridge and/or end effector assemblies disclosed herein.

[0406] The unformed staple 3712 depicted in FIG. 79 also has a variable height. For example, the staple 3712 defines a first height at the first leg 3716 and a second height at the second leg 3718, which is less than the first height. Additionally, the base 3714 of the staple 3712 defines a bend or step 3715, which lifts the second leg 3718 relative to the first leg 3716.

[0407] In other instances, the unformed staple 3712 may have a uniform height. Additionally or alternatively, the base 3714 of the unformed staple 3712 may be straight, or generally straight, between the first leg 3716 and the second leg 3718. In such instances, the staple 3712 may still assume a variable formed height when the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3742 of the lifted driver 3740 and the staple forming pockets 3705 is variable. For example, one of the staple legs 3716, 3718 can be more deformed and/or compacted than the other staple leg 3716, 3718 to accommodate for the additional leg length. Additionally, because the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3742 and the staple forming pockets 3705 varies, the base 3714 can be bent and/or otherwise deformed during firing to accommodate for the height difference.

[0408] A staple cartridge 3820 and an anvil 3803 are depicted in FIG. 80. The staple cartridge 3820 is similar to the staple cartridge 3620 (FIGS. 49-51) and like reference characters refer to similar elements. For example, the staple cartridge 3820 includes a cartridge body 3824 and a deck 3822. Unlike the deck 3622 (FIGS. 49-51), the deck 3822 has a flat, or generally flat, unstepped surface. An angled staple cavity 3828 is defined into the cartridge body 3824. Additionally, a longitudinal slot 3832 is defined partially through the depicted cartridge body 3824.

[0409] In various instances, the staple cartridge 3820 can include multiple staple cavities 3828, which are configured to receive an array of angled staples. For example, the staple cartridge 3820 can include an arrangement of staple cavities that corresponds to the arrangement of staple cavities 3628 depicted in FIGS. 49-51. In certain instances, three rows of staple cavities 3828 can be positioned on either side of the longitudinal slot 3832, for example.

[0410] An unformed staple 3812 is depicted in FIG. 80. The staple 3812 includes a base 3814, a first leg 3816 extending from the base 3814, and a second leg 3818 extending from the base 3814. A driver 3840 is also depicted in FIG. 80. The driver 3840 includes a trough or cradle 3842, which is configured to support the base 3814 of the staple 3812.

[0411] The anvil 3803 includes a laterally stepped, cartridge-facing surface 3801. A first staple forming pocket 3805a and a second staple forming pocket 3805b are defined into the stepped surface 3801. As depicted in FIG. 80, the first staple forming pocket 3805a is in a first step 3801a of the stepped surface 3801 and the second staple forming pocket 3805b is in a second step 3801b of the stepped surface 3801.

[0412] As the driver 3840 is fired and lifted within the staple cavity 3828, the staple 3812 rides upward on the lifting driver 3840 and is deformed by the staple forming pockets 3805a, 3805b of the anvil 3803. The formed staple 3812′ is also depicted in FIG. 80. The formed height of the staple 3812′ is a function of the distance or gap between the lifted driver 3840 and the staple forming pockets 3805a, 3805b of the anvil 3803. Because the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3842 of the lifted driver 3840 and each staple forming pockets 3805a, 3805b is different in the staple cartridge 3720 depicted in FIG. 79, the formed staple 3812′ assumes a variable height. For example, the height of formed staple 3812′ is greater between the first leg 3816′ and the base 3814′ than between the second leg 3818′ and the base 3814′. In various instances, the angular orientation of the staple 3812′ can place the first leg 3816′ farther from the longitudinal slot 3832 than the second leg 3818′. In such instances, the first leg 3816′ can be an outer leg of the staple 3812′ and the second leg 3818′ can be an inner leg of the staple 3812′. In such an arrangement, the tissue compression can be greater between the inner leg 3818′ and the base 3814′ than between the outer leg 3816′ and the base 3814′.

[0413] In other instances, the staple 3812′ can be deformed to a smaller height at the outer leg 3816′. As a result, the tissue compression could be greater between the outer leg 3816′ and the base 3814′ than between the inner leg 3818′ and the base 3814′.

[0414] Staple cartridge and anvil arrangements that are configured to deform angled staples to different formed heights, like the staple cartridge 3820 and the anvil 3805a, 3805b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, variable depth pockets, like pockets 3805a, 3805b, for example, could be incorporated into other embodiments disclosed herein.

[0415] The unformed staple 3812 depicted in FIG. 80 has a variable height. For example, the staple 3812 defines a first height at the first leg 3816 and a second height at the second leg 3818, which is less than the first height.

[0416] In other instances, the unformed staple 3812 may have a uniform height. In such instances, the staple 3812 may still assume a variable formed height when the distance between the staple-supporting surface 3842 of the lifted driver 3840 and the staple forming pockets 3805 is variable. For example, one of the staple legs 3816, 3818 can be more deformed and/or compacted than the other staple leg 3816, 3818 to accommodate for the additional length.

[0417] In certain types of surgical procedures, the use of surgical staples or surgical fasteners has become the preferred method of joining tissue, and, specially configured surgical staplers or circular surgical fastening devices have been developed for these applications. For example, intra-luminal or circular staplers have been developed for use in surgical procedures used to form an “anastomosis”. Circular staplers useful to perform an anastomosis are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,104,025, entitled INTRALUMINAL ANASTOMOTIC SURGICAL STAPLER WITH DETACHED ANVIL, U.S. Pat. No. 5,309,927, entitled CIRCULAR STAPLER TISSUE RETENTION SPRING METHOD, U.S. Pat. No. 7,665,647, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE, U.S. Pat. No. 8,668,130, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING SYSTEMS AND STAPLE CARTRIDGES FOR DEPLOYING SURGICAL STAPLES WITH TISSUE COMPRESSION FEATURES, the entire disclosures of each being hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0418] One form of an “anastomosis” comprises a surgical procedure wherein sections of intestine are joined together after a connecting section (usually a diseased section) has been excised. The procedure requires joining the ends of two tubular sections together to form a continuous tubular pathway. Previously, this surgical procedure was a laborious and time consuming operation. The surgeon had to precisely cut and align the ends of the intestine and maintain the alignment while joining the ends with numerous suture stitches. The development of circular fastening devices has greatly simplified the anastomosis procedure and has also decreased the time required to perform an anastomosis.

[0419] In general, a conventional circular stapler or fastening device consists of an elongated shaft that includes a proximal actuating mechanism and a distal stapling mechanism that is mounted to the shaft. The distal stapling mechanism typically consists of a fixed stapling cartridge that contains a plurality of staples that are arranged in a concentric circular array. A round cutting knife is also concentrically mounted in the cartridge such that it is interior to the staples. The knife is axially moveable in a distal direction. Extending axially from the center of the cartridge is a trocar shaft. The trocar shaft is also axially moveable within the elongated shaft. The trocar shaft is configured to be removably attached to an anvil member. The anvil member includes a staple-forming undersurface that is arranged to confront the staple cartridge for forming the ends of the staples as they are advanced into contact with it. The distance between the distal face of the staple cartridge and the staple forming undersurface of the anvil is controlled by an adjustment mechanism that is mounted to the proximal end of the stapler shaft. Tissue that is contained between the staple cartridge and the staple anvil is simultaneously stapled and cut when the actuating mechanism is actuated by the surgeon.

[0420] When performing an anastomosis using a circular stapler, the intestine is typically initially stapled using a conventional surgical stapler with double rows of staples being emplaced on either side of a target section (i.e., the diseased section or specimen) of intestine. The target section is typically simultaneously cut as the section is stapled. Next, after removing the specimen, the surgeon typically inserts the anvil into the proximal end of the lumen (i.e., intestine), proximal of the staple line. This is done by inserting the anvil head into an entry port cut into the proximal lumen (intestine) by the surgeon. On occasion, the anvil can be placed transanally, by placing the anvil head on the distal end of the stapler and inserting the instrument through the rectum. The proximal end of the intestine is then sutured to the anvil shaft using a suture or other conventional tying device. Next, the surgeon cuts excess tissue adjacent to the tie and the surgeon attaches the anvil to the trocar shaft of the stapler. The surgeon then closes the gap between the anvil and cartridge by drawing the anvil towards the staple cartridge. As the anvil moves toward the cartridge, the proximal and distal ends of the intestine are clamped therebetween. The stapler is then actuated causing the rows of staples to be driven through both ends of the intestine into forming contact with the anvil. Simultaneously, as the staples are driven and formed, the circular blade is driven through the intestinal tissue ends, cutting the ends adjacent to the inner row of staples. The surgeon then withdraws the stapler from the intestine and the anastomosis is complete.

[0421] The effective healing of a colorectal anastomosis can be challenged by several factors and conditions. For example, healing can be effected by the presence of bacterial contaminates in the area of the anastomosis. In general practice, the success rate of the anastomosis tends to improve with the patient's return to mobility. It is desirable for the patient to return to contents passing as soon as possible. One inhibitor to contents passing is the risk of “stricture”. If the colon contents are unable to pass the staple line or if they dramatically stress the staple line, a tear, rupture or leak can occur. A linear expandable line of staples was developed for highly expanding organs like the lungs. However, such staple configurations do not lend themselves to use in connection with a circular stapler.

[0422] FIG. 29 illustrates one form of circular stapler or stapling device generally designated as 5000. A variety of circular stapling devices are well known and employed for installing surgical staples or fasteners. Thus, various details concerning the construction and operation of circular stapling devices will not be discussed in detail herein beyond what may be necessary to understand the innovations and arrangements disclosed herein and depicted in the appended Figures. More details regarding circular fastener and stapling devices may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 7,665,647, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH CLOSURE APPARATUS FOR LIMITING MAXIMUM TISSUE COMPRESSION FORCE, which has been incorporated herein in its entirety as well as other U.S. patents incorporated by reference herein. In general, the circular stapling device 5000 shown in FIG. 29 includes a head 5002, an anvil 5004, an adjustment knob assembly 5006 and a handle 5010 that supports a trigger 5008 thereon. The handle assembly 5010 is coupled to the head 5002 by an arcuate shaft assembly 5012. In the illustrated arrangement, the trigger 5008 is pivotally supported by handle assembly 5010 and is used to operate the stapler 5000 when a safety mechanism (not illustrated) is released. When trigger 5008 is activated, a firing mechanism is movably advanced within the shaft assembly 5012 so that staples or fasteners are expelled, or deployed, from the head 5002 into forming contact with an anvil forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004. Simultaneously, a circular knife (not viewable in FIG. 29) that is operably supported within head 5002 is advanced distally toward the anvil 5004 and serves to cut the tissue that has been clamped between the head 5002 and anvil 5004 in a known manner. Stapling device 5000 is then removed from the surgical site leaving the stapled tissue in place.

[0423] As can also be seen in FIG. 29, the anvil 5004 includes circular body portion 5014 that has an anvil shaft 5016 protruding therefrom. The anvil shaft 5016 is configured to be removably attached to a trocar shaft 5050 operably supported within the shaft assembly 5012. See FIG. 29A. As is known, the trocar shaft 5050 is movably supported with the shaft assembly 5012 and operably interfaces with the adjustment knob assembly 5006 that is rotatably supported on the handle assembly 5010. The anvil shaft 5016 may be removably attached to the trocar shaft 5050 by retention clips 5052 or other releasable fastening arrangements may also be employed to removably affix the anvil shaft 5016 to the trocar shaft 5050. Once the anvil shaft 5016 has been attached to the trocar shaft 5050, the clinician can move the anvil 5004 toward and away form the head 5002 by rotating the adjustment knob 5006 in the appropriate rotary direction.

[0424] FIG. 29A illustrates a head 5002 that has a unique and novel fastener cartridge assembly 5020 operably mounted therein. As can be seen in that Figure, the fastener cartridge assembly 5020 includes a cartridge body 5022 that includes a circular deck 5030. The circular deck 5030 may form a planar surface 5032 that is arranged to confront the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. A plurality of fastener cavities 5040 are provided in the circular deck 5030 and are configured to receive at least one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown) that is operably supported on a driver assembly 5060 movably supported in the body 5022 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5020. The driver assembly 5060 is operably coupled to a corresponding movable portion of the shaft assembly 5012 that operably interfaces with the trigger 5008. Activation of the trigger 5008, for example, will result in the axial movement of the driver assembly 5060 in the distal direction “DD”. Movement of the driver assembly 5060 in the distal direction “DD” will result in the movement or expulsion of the surgical staple(s) or fastener(s) supported in each fastener cavity 5040 into forming contact with the staple forming undersurface 5005 on the anvil 5004.

[0425] Still referring to FIG. 29A, for example, each fastener cavity 5040 includes two cavity ends 5042, 5044. In the illustrated arrangement, each cavity end 5042, which may also be referred to herein as a “first cavity end” is positioned on a first circular axis “FCA” that has a first radius “FR”. The first radius “FR” may be measured from the instrument shaft axis “SA”. Also in the illustrated arrangement, each cavity end 5044, which may also be referred to herein as a “second cavity end” is positioned on a second circular axis “SCA” that has a second radius “SR” that is different from the first radius “FR”. In the illustrated example, the second radius “SR”, which is also measured from the shaft axis “SA”, is greater than the first radius “FR”. Also in the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 includes a cavity axis “CA”. In the illustrated embodiment, each fastener cavity 5040 is arranged in the circular deck 5030 relative to the first circular axis “FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA” such that each the cavity axis “CA” forms an acute angle with the first circular axis “FCA” and the second circular axis “SCA”. Stated another way, the cavity ends 5042 of adjacent fastener cavities 5040 are adjacent to each other and the ends 5044 of the same fastener cavities 5040 are spaced form each other. Such arrangement may be referred to herein as a “zigzag” orientation. In other arrangements, however, the cavity axis “CA” may be perpendicular to the first and second circular axes “FCA” and “SCA”.

[0426] In the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 29A, each cavity end 5042, 5044 may be V-shaped such that they generally terminate in a point. For example, each cavity end 5042 may generally terminate in a point 5043 and each end 5044 may terminate in a point 5045. Points 5043 may be positioned on or intersect with the first circular axis “FCA” and points 5045 may be positioned on or intersect with the second circular axis “SCA”. Such cavity arrangements result in the application of the surgical staples or fasteners in a similar pattern with the tissue. In the illustrated arrangement, the fastener cavities 5040 each support one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein. In other arrangements, however, more than one staple or fastener may be supported in each cavity. The fastener cartridge assembly 5020 employs like-sized staples in each fastener cavity 5040. In other arrangements, different sizes of surgical staples or fasteners may be employed in the fastener cartridge assembly. The surgical staples that may be employed, for example, include two staple legs that extend from a central body portion or crown. The legs maybe received in the V-shaped ends 5042, 5044 of the fastener cavity 5040 such that when they are ejected out of the cavity 5040, the legs extend through the first or second circular axes, which ever the case may be. These staple orientations may address some of the concerns associated with staple stricture discussed above. In particular, the staple configuration formed when employing the fastener cartridge assembly 5020 may allow the staple line to expand and flex more like the original colon than a common staple line. For example, the staples or fasteners may twist as they are pulled radially allowing them to minimize the stress on the healing zones and maximize the flexibility and strength.

[0427] Another area of concern associated with colorectal anastomosis procedures relates to radial leakage through the attachment areas. The above-described fastener cartridge assembly 5020 may also address this area of concern. Another fastener cartridge assembly 5120 is shown in FIG. 30 and may also address the various problems and concerns described above. As can be seen in that Figure, the fastener cavities are arrangement in an “asymmetric pattern” wherein the staples applied through the inner ring or inner circular array of cavities function differently from those staples or fasteners applied through the outer ring or outer circular array of cavities.

[0428] More specifically and with reference to FIG. 30, the fastener cartridge assembly 5120 includes a cartridge body 5122 that includes a circular deck 5130. The circular deck 5130 may form a planar surface 5132 that is arranged to confront the staple forming undersurface 5005 of the anvil 5004 when the anvil shaft 5016 is attached to the trocar shaft 5050. A first ring 5036 of first cavities 5040 are provided in the circular deck 5130 and a second ring 5160 of second cavities 5170 are provided through the cartridge deck 5130 as shown. Each of the first and second cavities 5040, 5170 are configured to receive at least one surgical staple or surgical fastener therein (not shown) that is operably supported on a driver assembly 5060 movably supported in the body 5122 of the fastener cartridge assembly 5120.