US Patent 11974743 Linear stapling device with a gap locking member

A method and a tool assembly maintain a tissue gap between distal portions of an anvil and a cartridge assembly of a stapling device. In embodiments, the tool assembly includes a locking member that is supported on one of the anvil and the cartridge assembly and is movable from an unlocked position to a locked position to secure distal portions of the anvil and the cartridge assembly together. In the locked position, the locking member is engaged with the distal portion of the other of the anvil and the cartridge assembly to maintain a tissue gap between the distal portion of the anvil and the cartridge assembly.