A gas-enhanced electrosurgical method and apparatus for coagulating
tissue. The apparatus includes a first tube with a proximal end and a
distal end. The proximal end of the first tube is configured to receive
pressurized ionizable gas. The distal end of the first tube is configured
to deliver ionized gas towards a treatment area. The apparatus also
includes at least one electrode positioned to selectively ionize the
pressurized ionizable gas before the pressurized ionizable gas exits the
distal end of the first tube. The electrode is adapted to operatively
couple to an electrical energy source. The apparatus also includes a
second tube with proximal and distal ends. The second tube is configured
to selectively evacuate the ionized gas and dislodged tissue material
from the treatment area.