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Abstract

A stapling instrument including two elongate structural members each comprising a handle part with a jaw part projecting from a first end. The structural members have pivot means at second ends of their handle parts adapted for free engagement and disengagement and relative pivotal movement of the structural members between open and closed positions. An elongate locking member is mounted one one of the structural members for pivotal movement to a locking position generally aligned with its handle part where the locking member can be releasably retained to forcefully move the structural members to their closed position so that high compressive forces can be applied to tissues between the jaw parts. Staples from a cartridge along one jaw part can then be driven through the tissue and closed against an anvil along the other jaw part. One of the structural members has a support element in contact with the other of the structural members transverse of a space between the handle parts when the structural members are in their closed position to restrict bending and movement of the handle parts toward each other in response to separating forces applied between the jaw parts as a result of compressed tissues so that the staples can be properly closed.

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First Claim