Backup latch release for surgical instrument

Abstract

A surgical instrument that can include a proximal control mechanism that includes an opening through which a resilient latch arm is inserted into the proximal control mechanism and engages a locking surface of a fixed latch structure contained within the proximal control mechanism; means for receiving a release tool through an outer periphery of the proximal control mechanism and beyond the opening through which the resilient latch arm enters the proximal control mechanism, the means for receiving the release tool remaining uncovered when the resilient latch arm is attached to the fixed latch structure, and means for providing a fulcrum for the release tool on the outer periphery of the proximal control mechanism such that the release tool can release the surgical instrument by prying the resilient latch arm away from the locking surface of the fixed latch structure using the release tool as a lever.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.