A bipolar forceps (10) includes a mechanical forceps (20) including first and second shafts (12,14) each having a jaw member (42,44) extending from a distal end (17) thereof and a handle (16,18) disposed at a proximal end (13) thereof for effecting movement of the jaw members (42,44) relative to one another about a pivot (25). A disposable housing (70) is configured to releasably couple to at least one of the shafts and an electrode assembly (21) is configured to releasably couple to the disposable housing (70). The electrode assembly (21) includes electrodes (120,110) releasably coupleable to the jaw members (42,44). At least one of the electrodes (120,110) includes a knife channel (58) configured to receive a knife blade (85) therethrough to cut tissue grasped between the jaw members (42,44). An actuation mechanism (90) is configured to selectively advance the knife blade (85) through the knife channel (58) to cut tissue.
