an electrosurgical instrument for the removal of tissue polyps and the like is disclosed . it features a bipolar pair of conductive electrodes for the cutting of tissue in which at least one electrode is moveable in relation to the other . these electrodes are mounted relative to an insulating plug , which is secured at the distal end of a tubular member . pressure exerted on a thumb loop shifts the position of one electrode relative to the other . upon application of rf voltage , the distance at which the electrodes are placed controls the amount of arcing which will occur between electrodes , when placed within a proper range . the electrodes are supplied with power from a standard rf energy source , controlled from a foot or hand switch . the insulating plug may further include metal traces disposed on the peripheral surface . when energized , these traces function as a bipolar pair of electrodes for effecting electrocoagulation of tissue and blood .