Importance

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Abstract

A surgical instrument includes laterally opposing members, an end effector having opposing jaws movable with respect to each other, a resilient member operably biasing the laterally opposing members away from each other, and an improved ratchet locking device. The ratchet locking device includes a first toothed plate mounted on one of the laterally opposing members, and a second toothed plate pivotally mounted on the other laterally opposing member. The second toothed member is pivotable between a first position in which the plates are engaged and a second position in which the plates are disengaged. A spring member is used for biasing the plates into engagement. A release member is provided for retaining the toothed plates in a disengaged position. The release member is mounted on one of the laterally opposing members and includes a cam surface engagable with a follower on one of the toothed plates. The release member is positionable to selectively retain the toothed plates in an engaged position or in a disengaged position.

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First Claim