Surgical stapler buttress applicator with multi-zone platform for pressure focused release

An apparatus comprising:

• (a) a housing defining a gap configured to receive a portion of an end effector of a surgical stapler;
• (b) a platform, wherein a portion of the platform is exposed in the gap defined by the housing;
• (c) a first buttress assembly supported by the platform, wherein the first buttress assembly is exposed in the gap defined by the housing, wherein the first buttress assembly includes a plurality of downward projections extending therefrom and toward the platform;
• and
• (d) a plurality of retainers configured to selectively retain the plurality of downward projections of the first buttress assembly against the platform, wherein the plurality of retainers are configured to release the first buttress assembly from the platform in response to a clamping action of the end effector positioned in the gap defined by the housing.

An apparatus comprising:

• (a) a housing defining a gap configured to receive a portion of an end effector of a surgical stapler;
• (b) a platform, wherein a portion of the platform is exposed in the gap defined by the housing;
• (c) a first buttress assembly positioned on supported by the platform, wherein the first buttress assembly is exposed in the gap defined by the housing, wherein the first buttress assembly comprises:
• (i) a body includes a plurality of filaments that are integrally formed with the first buttress assembly and extend from the first buttress assembly towards the platform, and
• (ii) an adhesive layer, wherein the adhesive layer is exposed in the gap defined by the housing;
• and
• (d) a plurality of retainers configured to selectively retain the first buttress assembly against the platform, wherein the plurality of retainers are further configured to release the first buttress assembly from the platform in response to a clamping action of the end effector positioned in the gap defined by the housing, wherein each retainer comprises:
• (i) a base secured to the platform, and
• (ii) at least two arms, wherein each arm includes:
• (A) a filament engaging feature configured to releasable hold the filament, wherein the filament engaging feature is configured to disengage the filament causing the filament to be released, and
• (B) a latching feature configured to contact an underside of the platform, wherein the latching feature is configured to be pushed towards the platform and engage an underside of the platform.