A cannula (42) for an assembly (32) for radiofrequency ablation of tissue with an electrode (66) comprises a cannula hub (44), and a cannula body (50). The cannula body (50) comprises a proximal section defining a proximal end coupled to said cannula hub (44), a distal section (56) defining a distal end opposite said proximal end with said distal section (56) being electrically conductive, a bend (54) formed proximal to the distal section (56), a lumen (52) extending from said proximal end to said distal section (56), and through said bend (54), with said lumen (52) adapted to receive the electrode (66), a side opening (58) spaced proximally from the distal end, opening into said lumen (52) and formed so as to extend through a portion of the cannula body (50) that defines an outer portion of the bend (54), and an electrically insulating sleeve (64) disposed over said cannula body (50).
