US Patent 9757133 Methods and devices for performing a surgical anastomosis

A circular stapler is disclosed. The circular stapler includes a handle assembly, an elongate body, a cartridge assembly, a trocar, and a light source. The elongate body extends from the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis. The cartridge assembly is disposed adjacent a distal end of the elongate body and includes a pusher assembly. The pusher assembly is movable to cause staples to be ejected from the cartridge assembly. The trocar is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the cartridge assembly and is longitudinally advanceable to puncture tissue. The light source is disposed in mechanical cooperation with the trocar, and is configured to project a light beam distally of the trocar.