Method of use of a circular stapler for hemorrhoidal procedure

Abstract

A method for using a circular stapling instrument for the removal of hemorrhoids is disclosed. The circular stapling instrument has a stapling end effector having a stapling head assembly and an anvil assembly movable from an open position spaced away from the stapling head to a closed position adjacent to the stapling head. A first inner chamber and a second inner chamber communicate within the stapling head assembly wherein the second inner chamber has an open distal end when the anvil is in an open position. A substantially unobstructed passageway extends from an exterior casing surface of the stapling head assembly through the first inner chamber, through the second inner chamber, and through the open distal end of the second inner chamber. A suture is placed into the hemorrhoid of a patient and the open stapling end effector is placed into the anus of a patient. The open stapling end effector is positioned with the suture between the stapling head and the open anvil assembly and a surgical instrument is placed into the passageway to engage the suture through the open distal end of the second chamber. The suture is withdrawn out of the passageway with the surgical instrument. The suture is pulled by the surgeon to draw the hemorrhoids into the open distal end of the stapling end effector and into the first and second inner chambers. The open anvil is closed and the circular stapling instrument is fired to staple and cut the hemorrhoids. The circular stapling instrument and the hemorrhoids are then removed from the patient.