Abstract: A manually supported electrosurgical device comprises an elongated electrode supported for motion within an insulated housing so that in one position its operating end extends from the housing into a surgically useful position and in another position its operating end is retracted within the housing. A spring has one end connected to the housing and the other end connected to the spring so as to normally urge it to the retracted position. A manually actuable trigger supported on the housing may be depressed to force the electrode against the spring force so that its operating end extends out of the housing. When the pressure on the trigger is removed, the spring forces the electrode back into the housing. When depressed, the trigger connects the electrode to a radio frequency generator.