An end effector assembly includes a first jaw member having a first tissue contact surface and a second jaw member having a second tissue contact surface. The second jaw member is pivotally coupled to the first jaw member. The tissue contact surfaces may include raised steps that define an exhaust channel. A longitudinally extending knife slot may be defined in one or both of the tissue contact surfaces. One or more exhaust slots, which may be defined in one or both of the tissue contact surfaces, are in communication with the knife slot. The exhaust channel and the exhaust slots direct fluid away from the jaw members to minimize thermal damage risks associated with tissue sealing.