Abstract: A surgical tool for performing telesurgical surgical operations such as cutting, shearing, grasping, engaging, or contacting tissue. The surgical tool comprises a pair of jaws cooperatively rotating open and close about an axis of rotation. The jaws further comprise one or more compliant electrodes electrically communicating with a conductor to deliver electrical energy to tissue engaged by the jaws. The electrodes formed of an elastomeric material impregnated with a conductive material or formed atop an elastomeric material allowing a certain amount of flexibility and thereby maintaining more consistent pressure on the tissue when the jaws engage the tissue.