Covidien (NYSE:COV) touted FDA clearance for its iDrive Ultra Powered surgical stapler, which the company calls the only fully powered, reusable, battery-operated endoscopic surgical stapler in the world.

The iDrive Ultra is the 2nd in Covidien’s line of powered stapling devices and the 1st to fit all of the device maker’s Endo GIA staple reloads, according to a press release.

"The newest addition to our line of battery-powered devices delivers optimal functionality due to the valuable feedback surgeons have provided," Covidien surgical solution chief technology officer and vice president Paul Hermes said in prepared remarks. "We work closely with surgeons to develop products that not only improve patient outcomes, but also make surgery safer, easier and more efficient for surgeons."

The next-generation device features one-handed operation and improve maneuverability, and is designed for multi-patient use. Covidien plans to begin selling the iDrive Ultra in the U.S. at the beginning of Q4 2012, according to a press release.

That’s good new for Covidien, which has had some bad news surrounding its surgical staplers.

Just last week the company discontinued certain Duet TRS single-use surgical stapling systems following reports of patients deaths and injuries.

The medical device company cut the Duet TRS Universal Straight and Articulating Single-Use Loading Units following a single report linking the tissue reinforcement devices to a post-operative injury, according to a press release.

That added to the 13 serious injuries and 3 patient deaths that earlier this year spurred a recall and FDA warnings of possible mismanagement of the recall.

COV shares saw a mild boost today, trading 0.5% higher at $55.85 as of about 1:15 p.m.