Abstract: An apparatus for electrosurgical incision of a stricture within or adjacent to a body lumen, which comprises an electrically conducting, deflectable wire associated with an introducer for introducing the apparatus into the body lumen, wherein a proximal portion of the wire is deflectable outwardly relative to the introducer, and a source of RF electric current connected to the wire whereby RF electric current may be transmitted through the wire when it is in the deflected position.

Abstract: A rectal probe comprising a catheter having a longitudinal axis around which is mounted an inflatable, low pressure, compliant balloon having a temperature element associated with the wall thereof, means for holding the probe at a proper position within a patient's rectum and means for inflating the balloon when it is properly positioned to put the temperature element in intimate contact with the anterior side of the rectum. A method for monitoring a patient's rectal mucosal temperature during thermal treatment of the patient's prostate is also disclosed.