#$%^&*AU2011213854B220120705.pdf#####SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS EMPLOYING SENSORS Abstract A method of performing a surgical procedure on tissue (T) comprising the steps of: providing a surgical instrument (200) including an end effector including a first tissue 5 engaging member (20) and a second tissue engaging member (22) in juxtaposed relation to the first tissue engaging member. Positioning the first and second tissue engaging members (20, 22) on opposite sides of the tissue. Approximating the first and second tissue engaging members until the tissue contact determining element (262) is engaged. Recording an initial distance between the first and second tissue engaging members as an 1o initial tissue thickness. Further approximating the first and second tissue engaging members to compress the tissue therebetween. Monitoring at least one of a compression force and a strain on the tissue and terminating the approximation of the first and second tissue engaging members when at least one of the compression force and the strain on the tissue reaches a predetermined level.
