an electrocautery device for alternatively searing and coagulating tissue of a patient during surgery is provided . the device has a blade and an electrical cable electrically connecting the blade to an electrosurgical generator . the device comprises a hollow main body and a vacuum mechanism formed in the main body for selectively providing a vacuum for removing any plume created while searing or coagulating tissue . at least one intake port is formed in the main body . vacuum tubing extends into the main body and is fluidly connected to the intake port . a self - centering switch body rotatable within the main body selectively activates the electrical energy of the electrosurgical generator to either sear or coagulate tissue and activates the vacuum mechanism upon activation of the electrical energy . a pair of non - intersecting , crossing airway paths are alternatively alignable within the main body to connect the intake port to the vacuum tubing .