an apparatus and method for use in performing ablation or coagulation of organs and other tissue includes a metallized fabric electrode array which is substantially absorbent and / or permeable to moisture and gases such as steam and conformable to the body cavity . the array includes conductive regions separated by insulated regions arranged to produce ablation to a predetermined depth . following placement of the ablation device into contact with the tissue to be ablated , an rf generator is used to deliver rf energy to the conductive regions and to thereby induce current flow from the electrodes to tissue to be ablated . as the current heats the tissue , moisture leaves the tissue causing the tissue to dehydrate . suction may be applied to facilitate moisture removal . the moisture permeability and / or absorbency of the electrode carrying member allows the moisture to leave the ablation site so as to prevent the moisture from providing a path of conductivity for the current .