| abstract |
FABRIC THICKNESS COMPENSATOR INCLUDING RESILIENT MEMBERS. The present invention relates to a tissue thickness compensator comprising at least one woven lattice that can be positioned on the end actuator of a surgical instrument. A fastener cartridge that is positioned on the end actuator may comprise at least one cavity configured to receive a fastener. The fastener may be movable between an initial position, in which the fastener is at least partially positioned in a cavity, and a triggered position, in which the fastener is configured to compress a woven lattice of the fabric thickness compensator. The woven lattice may comprise a resilient material such that compression of the woven lattice generates a restoring force. The woven lattice may also comprise an axis which can laterally traverse the fastener cartridge, diagonally cross the fastener cartridge, or intersect a platform surface of the fastener cartridge. The woven lattice may comprise a hydrophilic substance, which can expand when the woven lattice is separated by a cutting element. |