Abstract: This invention provides apparatus and means for protecting the axillary nerve during thermal capsullorhaphy. An electrosurgical probe is attached to a standard electrosurgical generator that is capable of producing coag waveforms. RF energy is generated by the generator in coag waveform and applied to discrete locations of the capsular ligaments through the electrosurgical probe. Noise produced by the coag waveform stimulates the axillary nerve, even in saline environments, thereby identifying the high-risk regions of the capsular ligaments that should be avoided during the procedure.